https://aseannow.com/rss/44-thailand-news.xml/National and regional news from all around ThailandenHe intends to plead guilty to one felony count of illegal retention of sensitive national security information, according to one of the sources. He has also agreed to pay a more than $2 million fine, according to one of the sources. The alleged transmission of classified information isn’t part of the charges he expects to plead guilty to. A conviction on one count of illegal retention could come with a sentence between 0 and 60 months in prison. https://edition.cnn.com/2026/06/04/politics/john-bolton-guilty-plea-agreement-trump-critic NB Re-arraignment June 26. The plea deal is subject to judge's approval.Thu, 04 Jun 2026 21:43:26 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/italian-man-caught-smuggling-heroin-into-koh-samui-cell-r2170/A 46-year-old Italian man has been arrested after allegedly attempting to smuggle heroin into a detention cell at Bo Phut Police Station on Koh Samui, where a friend was being held pending deportation. The suspect, identified only as Mr Domenico, was detained after officers discovered drugs hidden inside a beverage bottle he brought during a prison visit. Get today's headlines by email The incident took place on the evening of 3 June 2026 at Bo Phut Police Station in Surat Thani province. According to police, Mr Domenico arrived carrying a drink bottle and told officers he wished to visit an Italian friend being held in custody while awaiting deportation. During a routine inspection, duty officer Pol Snr Sgt Maj Veerayut Krisgree noticed that the bottle cap appeared unusual and was not properly sealed. A closer examination revealed a small package concealed inside the bottle. Police found 0.33 grams of heroin wrapped in a condom and immediately detained the suspect. Investigators from Bo Phut Police Station then coordinated with immigration officers to expand the investigation. A subsequent search of Mr Domenico’s rented accommodation in Bo Phut uncovered 12 packets containing heroin and crystal methamphetamine hidden inside a wardrobe. Officers also seized plastic bags believed to have been used for repackaging drugs. During questioning, Mr Domenico admitted purchasing the drugs from a Thai man known as “Pe” in the Mareet area. He told investigators he paid 4,000 baht per transaction and used the drugs himself while also supplying them to friends within his social circle. Police said he further admitted that the heroin hidden in the bottle was intended for a detained friend identified only as “Saga”. Authorities have charged Mr Domenico with possession of Category 1 narcotics, including heroin and crystal methamphetamine, with intent to distribute. He also faces charges relating to the attempted distribution of heroin by bringing the drug into the police station for a detainee. Manager Online reported that police transferred the suspect to investigators at Bo Phut Police Station for further legal proceedings. If convicted, he is expected to face sentencing under Thai narcotics laws before eventual deportation. Authorities have not released further details regarding the alleged supplier or any additional arrests linked to the investigation. Pictures courtesy of MGR Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now MGRonline 5 June 2026Thu, 04 Jun 2026 21:40:32 +0000A 46-year-old Italian man has been arrested after allegedly attempting to smuggle heroin into a detention cell at Bo Phut Police Station on Koh Samui, where a friend was being held pending deportation. The suspect, identified only as Mr Domenico, was detained after officers discovered drugs hidden inside a beverage bottle he brought during a prison visit. Get today's headlines by email The incident took place on the evening of 3 June 2026 at Bo Phut Police Station in Surat Thani province. According to police, Mr Domenico arrived carrying a drink bottle and told officers he wished to visit an Italian friend being held in custody while awaiting deportation. During a routine inspection, duty officer Pol Snr Sgt Maj Veerayut Krisgree noticed that the bottle cap appeared unusual and was not properly sealed. A closer examination revealed a small package concealed inside the bottle. Police found 0.33 grams of heroin wrapped in a condom and immediately detained the suspect. Investigators from Bo Phut Police Station then coordinated with immigration officers to expand the investigation. A subsequent search of Mr Domenico’s rented accommodation in Bo Phut uncovered 12 packets containing heroin and crystal methamphetamine hidden inside a wardrobe. Officers also seized plastic bags believed to have been used for repackaging drugs. During questioning, Mr Domenico admitted purchasing the drugs from a Thai man known as “Pe” in the Mareet area. He told investigators he paid 4,000 baht per transaction and used the drugs himself while also supplying them to friends within his social circle. Police said he further admitted that the heroin hidden in the bottle was intended for a detained friend identified only as “Saga”. Authorities have charged Mr Domenico with possession of Category 1 narcotics, including heroin and crystal methamphetamine, with intent to distribute. He also faces charges relating to the attempted distribution of heroin by bringing the drug into the police station for a detainee. Manager Online reported that police transferred the suspect to investigators at Bo Phut Police Station for further legal proceedings. If convicted, he is expected to face sentencing under Thai narcotics laws before eventual deportation. Authorities have not released further details regarding the alleged supplier or any additional arrests linked to the investigation. Pictures courtesy of MGR Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now MGRonline 5 June 2026 View full articleThu, 04 Jun 2026 21:40:32 +0000The federal commission responsible for overseeing development on government land in Washington has delayed a decision on President Donald Trump’s proposed 250-foot triumphal arch, requesting additional information on the project’s design, safety implications and impact on the surrounding area. Get today's headlines by email The National Capital Planning Commission voted on Thursday to seek further details from the Department of the Interior, which submitted plans for the monument. The arch is proposed for a site between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery. The move follows nearly three hours of public testimony, with most speakers expressing opposition to the project, which is among several initiatives Trump is pursuing as part of a broader effort to reshape the capital. Commission Requests Additional InformationCommission members asked for more justification for the monument’s proposed height and sought further details on issues including aviation safety, lighting, stormwater management, traffic flow and visitor parking. Will Scharf, the commission chairman and Trump’s White House staff secretary, acknowledged that the proposal requires additional work before it can advance. He said officials should provide more information about how the structure would appear in relation to other major landmarks in Washington. Scharf nevertheless argued that the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary celebrations presented an opportunity to add a lasting feature to the city. Vice Chairman Stuart Levenbach described the location as one of the few places where a large civic monument could potentially be appropriate, while noting that questions remain over whether such a prominent architectural statement belongs there. Public Opposition Remains StrongThe commission received around 1,700 public comments ahead of the meeting, the majority opposing the project. Critics cited concerns over the arch’s size, its effect on Washington’s skyline and potential safety issues in a heavily visited area. Some described it as an unnecessary use of public funds, while others characterized it as a personal legacy project for the president. Representatives from organizations including the National Parks Conservation Association, the National Trust for Historic Preservation and the Society of Architectural Historians spoke against the proposal. Among them was military veteran Gary Langston, who argued that the project would disrupt the historic sightline linking the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington House, a visual connection intended to symbolize national reunification following the Civil War. Monument Design and Funding QuestionsCurrent plans call for a granite arch rising 250 feet from its base to a torch-bearing figure resembling Lady Liberty. Two gilded eagles would flank the top of the structure, while previously proposed lion statues at its base have been removed. The phrases “One Nation Under God” and “Liberty and Justice for All” would appear in gold lettering, and the Pledge of Allegiance would be inscribed on both sides of the monument. An observation deck would provide panoramic views across the Washington region. Opponents argue the structure would overwhelm nearby landmarks. The proposed arch would stand more than twice the height of the Lincoln Memorial and nearly half the height of the Washington Monument. The final cost has not yet been determined. Trump previously suggested private donations could help fund the project, while a White House official said both public and private money are expected to contribute. Broader Washington Projects Face ScrutinyThe arch is one of several Trump-backed projects drawing criticism and legal challenges. A coalition of veterans and a historian has filed a lawsuit seeking to halt construction, citing concerns about the impact on historic views. Speaking in the Oval Office on Thursday, Trump described the proposed monument as a celebration of American military victories. The administration also announced the completion of work to add a blue coating to the interior of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool ahead of July 4 celebrations marking the nation’s 250th anniversary. That project is facing a separate legal challenge from the The Cultural Landscape Foundation, which argues federal preservation review procedures were not properly followed. Meanwhile, the White House East Wing has been demolished to make way for a large ballroom, another element of Trump’s effort to remake parts of Washington. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 5 June 2026 View full articleThu, 04 Jun 2026 21:38:39 +0000In other words he chased goals and turned up every Monday morning for work and didn't have sick days unlike some of you on here !!!!!!!!!!!!Thu, 04 Jun 2026 21:36:25 +0000What a beautiful post and very very true As you get older you need to , enjoy or should I say "accept" the joys of everyday life instead of chasing something like climbing the Andes , ( I have no idea where that is )Thu, 04 Jun 2026 21:33:09 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/thai-police-joins-meta-in-crackdown-of-online-scam-networks-r2169/Meta has announced the results of a major joint operation with the Royal Thai Police, the US Department of Justice and law enforcement agencies from several countries to disrupt online scam networks operating across Southeast Asia. The operation led to the arrest of 63 suspects linked to fraud schemes and the removal of more than 1.4 million Facebook and Instagram accounts, pages and groups connected to scam activity. Get today's headlines by email The announcement was made on 4 June. The operation relied on intelligence sharing and close cooperation between technology companies and law enforcement agencies. Information gathered during the initiative also helped identify new locations and call-centre scam networks believed to be involved in criminal activity, with details passed to authorities for further investigation. Key outcomes included Meta removing more than 1.4 million scam-related accounts, pages and groups across Facebook and Instagram. Microsoft suspended around 20,000 fraudulent accounts linked to criminal networks, while Coinbase froze more than US$3 million in cryptocurrency assets connected to organised crime groups. Starlink also disabled thousands of devices identified as being associated with illegal activities. The initiative followed collaboration launched on 18 May 2026 through the US Department of Justice’s Scam Center Strike Force, led by US Attorney Jeanine Pirro for the District of Columbia. Participants included Meta, Microsoft, Coinbase, Starlink, the Royal Thai Police and law enforcement agencies from the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada and New Zealand, working together in Bangkok and Washington, DC. The operation targeted criminal organisations behind investment scams, romance scams and other forms of online fraud affecting millions of people worldwide. Authorities said these groups often operate across multiple platforms, services and jurisdictions, making international cooperation essential to disrupting their activities. Pol Lt Gen Jirabhop Bhuridej, Assistant Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police and head of the Anti-Online Scam Operation Centre, said this was the third joint operation with Meta and international partners. He stated that the results demonstrated tangible progress in dismantling transnational cybercrime networks and highlighted the importance of timely intelligence sharing. Chris Sonderby, Vice President and Deputy General Counsel at Meta, said protecting people from scams remains one of the company’s highest priorities. He said the operation showed the value of cooperation between industry, the US Department of Justice, the FBI, the Royal Thai Police and other agencies in tackling scam centres operating in Asia. Microsoft, Coinbase and Starlink executives also stressed the importance of cross-sector collaboration, blockchain transparency and proactive enforcement measures in identifying, tracking and disrupting criminal networks. Daily News reported that authorities and technology companies involved in the operation said they remain committed to continuing this partnership as online scammers adapt their tactics and increasingly use multiple platforms to evade detection. Picture courtesy of Daily News Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 5 June 2026Thu, 04 Jun 2026 21:30:11 +0000Meta has announced the results of a major joint operation with the Royal Thai Police, the US Department of Justice and law enforcement agencies from several countries to disrupt online scam networks operating across Southeast Asia. The operation led to the arrest of 63 suspects linked to fraud schemes and the removal of more than 1.4 million Facebook and Instagram accounts, pages and groups connected to scam activity. Get today's headlines by email The announcement was made on 4 June. The operation relied on intelligence sharing and close cooperation between technology companies and law enforcement agencies. Information gathered during the initiative also helped identify new locations and call-centre scam networks believed to be involved in criminal activity, with details passed to authorities for further investigation. Key outcomes included Meta removing more than 1.4 million scam-related accounts, pages and groups across Facebook and Instagram. Microsoft suspended around 20,000 fraudulent accounts linked to criminal networks, while Coinbase froze more than US$3 million in cryptocurrency assets connected to organised crime groups. Starlink also disabled thousands of devices identified as being associated with illegal activities. The initiative followed collaboration launched on 18 May 2026 through the US Department of Justice’s Scam Center Strike Force, led by US Attorney Jeanine Pirro for the District of Columbia. Participants included Meta, Microsoft, Coinbase, Starlink, the Royal Thai Police and law enforcement agencies from the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada and New Zealand, working together in Bangkok and Washington, DC. The operation targeted criminal organisations behind investment scams, romance scams and other forms of online fraud affecting millions of people worldwide. Authorities said these groups often operate across multiple platforms, services and jurisdictions, making international cooperation essential to disrupting their activities. Pol Lt Gen Jirabhop Bhuridej, Assistant Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police and head of the Anti-Online Scam Operation Centre, said this was the third joint operation with Meta and international partners. He stated that the results demonstrated tangible progress in dismantling transnational cybercrime networks and highlighted the importance of timely intelligence sharing. Chris Sonderby, Vice President and Deputy General Counsel at Meta, said protecting people from scams remains one of the company’s highest priorities. He said the operation showed the value of cooperation between industry, the US Department of Justice, the FBI, the Royal Thai Police and other agencies in tackling scam centres operating in Asia. Microsoft, Coinbase and Starlink executives also stressed the importance of cross-sector collaboration, blockchain transparency and proactive enforcement measures in identifying, tracking and disrupting criminal networks. Daily News reported that authorities and technology companies involved in the operation said they remain committed to continuing this partnership as online scammers adapt their tactics and increasingly use multiple platforms to evade detection. Picture courtesy of Daily News Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 5 June 2026 View full articleThu, 04 Jun 2026 21:30:11 +0000Hezbollah has rejected a renewed ceasefire agreement announced by Israel and Lebanon, describing the US-backed proposal as unacceptable and equivalent to surrender. Get today's headlines by email In a strongly worded statement, Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem said negotiations had been “futile” and “humiliating” for Lebanon. He argued that the arrangement, which would require the group to halt attacks and withdraw fighters from southern Lebanon, served Israeli objectives and had been rejected by many Lebanese. The agreement was announced on Wednesday following a fourth round of US-mediated talks in Washington. In a joint statement, the United States, Israel and Lebanon said the deal depended on a complete cessation of Hezbollah fire. Security Zones Planned in Southern LebanonUnder the proposed arrangement, Hezbollah operatives would be removed from territory between the Israeli border and the Litani River, roughly 30km north of the frontier. The area is currently occupied by Israeli ground forces. The agreement also calls for the creation of pilot security zones where the Lebanese Armed Forces would exercise exclusive control, excluding all non-state armed groups. However, no maps or detailed plans were released explaining how the zones would operate. The deal followed a partial ceasefire announced earlier in the week, under which Israel was expected to halt strikes on Beirut while Hezbollah refrained from attacking Israeli territory. Representatives from both countries are due to meet again on 22 June for further discussions aimed at reaching a broader settlement. Opposition on the GroundReaction in Beirut’s southern suburbs, a Hezbollah stronghold, reflected the group’s opposition. Local shopkeepers interviewed by the BBC questioned the viability of a ceasefire that did not appear to stop ongoing military operations. Some described the arrangement as a surrender rather than a genuine peace agreement and expressed little confidence that it would bring lasting stability. Analysts suggest Lebanon’s government may have hoped Hezbollah would eventually accept the talks process, while the United States viewed the negotiations as part of wider efforts linked to regional diplomacy involving Iran. However, Hezbollah appears determined to present itself as the principal force resisting Israel. Fighting Continues Despite DiplomacyHostilities continued across Lebanon on Thursday. Lebanese media reported multiple Israeli strikes in southern regions and the Bekaa Valley. Lebanon’s health ministry said at least eight people were killed and 15 wounded in attacks targeting several towns, including Sohmor, Masaken and Arab Al-Jalil. Meanwhile, the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon, United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon, reported that one peacekeeper died from injuries sustained when mortar shells struck a position near Marjayoun. The Israeli military blamed Hezbollah for the attack, while the group had not commented on the allegation. Serbia later identified the peacekeeper as Senior Sergeant Milovan Jovanovic. Israel also announced the death of Capt Eitan Shmuel Lemberg during operations in southern Lebanon. The military said several aerial threats had been detected in the area, though no additional injuries were reported. Hezbollah stated that it had targeted Israeli troops and military vehicles near Qantara and Beaufort Castle with rockets and attack drones. War Shows No Sign of EndingThe conflict intensified after Hezbollah launched rockets into Israel on 2 March following an Israeli strike that killed Iran’s supreme leader. Israel responded with a large-scale air campaign and a ground offensive in southern Lebanon. A previous US-brokered ceasefire reached on 16 April failed to halt the fighting. Last week, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered intensified military operations against Hezbollah following continued rocket and drone attacks. According to Lebanon’s health ministry, at least 3,526 people have been killed in the country since the war began. The United Nations says more than one million people have been displaced. Israel says 26 soldiers and four civilians have been killed during the conflict. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 5 June 2026 View full articleThu, 04 Jun 2026 21:25:38 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/tourism-minister-orders-island-crime-crackdown-r2168/Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakun has ordered a sweeping crackdown on criminal networks and illegal activities on Thailand’s major tourist islands following a series of safety incidents involving foreign visitors. Get today's headlines by email Speaking on 4 June, Surasak said the ministry would coordinate with local authorities, tourism police and other agencies to arrest offenders and strictly enforce the law in key tourism destinations, including Koh Samui and Koh Samet. The measures are aimed at improving visitor safety and maintaining confidence in Thailand’s tourism sector after several violent incidents involving foreign tourists, including a recent assault on a Japanese visitor. The minister said authorities would carry out extensive inspections of businesses operating on tourist islands, including shops, restaurants, hotels and public transport operators. The campaign is intended to eliminate mafia-style control and illegal activities, particularly in southern tourism areas. Surasak warned that any government officials found to have facilitated, ignored or been involved in criminal activity would face legal action. The crackdown also targets nominee businesses and foreign nationals who overstay their visas. The initiative follows the government’s tougher security policy led by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Deputy Prime Minister Suphajee Suthumpun. The Interior Ministry and Commerce Ministry will expand investigations into nominee business operations, including cases similar to entertainment venues in Pattaya, to prevent foreigners from exploiting Thailand and transferring profits overseas. Tourism police have been instructed to strengthen security measures and increase monitoring of foreign visitors. Authorities are considering the use of technology to help screen visitors, detect visa overstays and ensure compliance with visa conditions and permitted lengths of stay. Surasak also confirmed he had recently met with Zhang Jianwei, Chinese Ambassador to Thailand. He said the Chinese embassy had expressed its willingness to cooperate in screening and supervising Chinese nationals to support the goal of attracting quality tourists while protecting the image of both countries. The latest measures come amid growing pressure on authorities to address safety concerns in popular tourist destinations. Recent inspections in Pattaya uncovered entertainment venues operating without proper licences and businesses allegedly using Thai nominees, reinforcing calls for stricter enforcement and greater scrutiny of tourism-related operations. “When problems arise, we will move quickly to address them. Individuals who break the law will be prosecuted, while business operators that fail to maintain safety standards or contribute to harmful incidents will be required to correct deficiencies immediately,” Surasak said. He added: “It is time to take safety control seriously. If an ordinary person commits an offence, they must be arrested immediately. But if an operator is negligent and causes losses, they must be ordered to correct the problem in line with the law as quickly as possible.” Khaosod reported that authorities are expected to continue inspections and enforcement operations across major tourist destinations in the coming weeks, focusing on crime prevention, business compliance and visitor safety. Picture courtesy of Khaosod Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 5 June 2026Thu, 04 Jun 2026 21:21:45 +0000Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakun has ordered a sweeping crackdown on criminal networks and illegal activities on Thailand’s major tourist islands following a series of safety incidents involving foreign visitors. Get today's headlines by email Speaking on 4 June, Surasak said the ministry would coordinate with local authorities, tourism police and other agencies to arrest offenders and strictly enforce the law in key tourism destinations, including Koh Samui and Koh Samet. The measures are aimed at improving visitor safety and maintaining confidence in Thailand’s tourism sector after several violent incidents involving foreign tourists, including a recent assault on a Japanese visitor. The minister said authorities would carry out extensive inspections of businesses operating on tourist islands, including shops, restaurants, hotels and public transport operators. The campaign is intended to eliminate mafia-style control and illegal activities, particularly in southern tourism areas. Surasak warned that any government officials found to have facilitated, ignored or been involved in criminal activity would face legal action. The crackdown also targets nominee businesses and foreign nationals who overstay their visas. The initiative follows the government’s tougher security policy led by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Deputy Prime Minister Suphajee Suthumpun. The Interior Ministry and Commerce Ministry will expand investigations into nominee business operations, including cases similar to entertainment venues in Pattaya, to prevent foreigners from exploiting Thailand and transferring profits overseas. Tourism police have been instructed to strengthen security measures and increase monitoring of foreign visitors. Authorities are considering the use of technology to help screen visitors, detect visa overstays and ensure compliance with visa conditions and permitted lengths of stay. Surasak also confirmed he had recently met with Zhang Jianwei, Chinese Ambassador to Thailand. He said the Chinese embassy had expressed its willingness to cooperate in screening and supervising Chinese nationals to support the goal of attracting quality tourists while protecting the image of both countries. The latest measures come amid growing pressure on authorities to address safety concerns in popular tourist destinations. Recent inspections in Pattaya uncovered entertainment venues operating without proper licences and businesses allegedly using Thai nominees, reinforcing calls for stricter enforcement and greater scrutiny of tourism-related operations. “When problems arise, we will move quickly to address them. Individuals who break the law will be prosecuted, while business operators that fail to maintain safety standards or contribute to harmful incidents will be required to correct deficiencies immediately,” Surasak said. He added: “It is time to take safety control seriously. If an ordinary person commits an offence, they must be arrested immediately. But if an operator is negligent and causes losses, they must be ordered to correct the problem in line with the law as quickly as possible.” Khaosod reported that authorities are expected to continue inspections and enforcement operations across major tourist destinations in the coming weeks, focusing on crime prevention, business compliance and visitor safety. Picture courtesy of Khaosod Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 5 June 2026 View full articleThu, 04 Jun 2026 21:21:45 +0000Probably shouldn't have linked and posted images from your Grindr account. Facebook is family friendly AFAIK ....Thu, 04 Jun 2026 21:19:30 +0000I was recently permanently suspended from Facebook because my account was hacked they said that I needed to provide a form of ID which I did promptly and the next day I was told I was permanently suspended. It was a business account that I had for 15 years, with 5,000 followers and I spent thousands of dollars on sponsored ads. There was no possibility of reaching out to a human being as Facebook is run entirely by bots, and bots make all the decisions, and this is just one more reason why AI is so incredibly dangerous. Facebook is rancid.Thu, 04 Jun 2026 21:15:48 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/atta-cuts-china-tourist-forecast-for-thailand-r2167/Thailand’s tourism industry faces a fresh setback after the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) cut its 2026 forecast for Chinese visitor arrivals from 9 million to 7 million. The downgrade reflects growing safety concerns among Chinese travellers, alongside rising travel costs linked to higher oil prices caused by conflict in the Middle East. Get today's headlines by email ATTA president Thanapol Cheewarattanaporn said on Thursday, 4 June 2026, that Chinese arrivals this year are now expected to reach around 7 million, well below projections made at the start of the year. He identified two key factors behind the weaker outlook: damage to Thailand’s safety image and increasing travel expenses. According to Thanapol, safety concerns have become the biggest obstacle in the Chinese market. Reports involving Chinese nationals allegedly being held for ransom or disappearing after arriving in Thailand, along with fears connected to call-centre scam networks, have undermined confidence among potential visitors. He said such reports have spread rapidly across Chinese social media and short-video platforms, further damaging Thailand’s reputation as a safe destination. Confidence has also been affected by online claims that some Thai state officials or police officers may have links to criminal groups, regardless of whether individual allegations have been fully proven. Thanapol said Chinese travellers place safety above all other considerations when choosing overseas destinations. He argued that Thailand’s response has not yet appeared strong or clear enough to reassure the Chinese market. ATTA is urging the government to introduce concrete safety measures and communicate them clearly at the national level. Thanapol said authorities should present a step-by-step strategy explaining what actions will be taken, how incidents will be addressed and how success will be measured. The uncertainty has made Chinese tour operators increasingly cautious. Some agencies now see Thailand as a weaker market and are less willing to spend resources reassuring customers about safety issues. As a result, investment and marketing activity promoting Thailand have slowed. Higher oil prices have added further pressure by increasing aviation costs and making charter flight operations more difficult. More expensive air fares are also discouraging travel. Despite the challenges, ATTA is seeking new opportunities by targeting emerging markets in China. The association has launched roadshows in Urumqi in Xinjiang and Lanzhou in Gansu, areas viewed as having strong potential and less exposure to negative news about Thailand. ATTA is also pushing for charter flights from Urumqi to Thailand from August. Thanapol said Xinjiang could serve as a strategic gateway linking travellers to other destinations, including Dubai and Europe. The Nation reported that ATTA has called for a broader review of Thailand’s tourism promotion strategy. Thanapol said the country should encourage both inbound Chinese tourism and outbound travel by Thais to improve aviation balance and strengthen tourism exchanges. He also warned that Thailand must move more quickly to compete with rivals such as Malaysia, which has actively promoted itself in China and launched direct flights between Kuala Lumpur and Urumqi. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 5 June 2026Thu, 04 Jun 2026 21:15:02 +0000Thailand’s tourism industry faces a fresh setback after the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) cut its 2026 forecast for Chinese visitor arrivals from 9 million to 7 million. The downgrade reflects growing safety concerns among Chinese travellers, alongside rising travel costs linked to higher oil prices caused by conflict in the Middle East. Get today's headlines by email ATTA president Thanapol Cheewarattanaporn said on Thursday, 4 June 2026, that Chinese arrivals this year are now expected to reach around 7 million, well below projections made at the start of the year. He identified two key factors behind the weaker outlook: damage to Thailand’s safety image and increasing travel expenses. According to Thanapol, safety concerns have become the biggest obstacle in the Chinese market. Reports involving Chinese nationals allegedly being held for ransom or disappearing after arriving in Thailand, along with fears connected to call-centre scam networks, have undermined confidence among potential visitors. He said such reports have spread rapidly across Chinese social media and short-video platforms, further damaging Thailand’s reputation as a safe destination. Confidence has also been affected by online claims that some Thai state officials or police officers may have links to criminal groups, regardless of whether individual allegations have been fully proven. Thanapol said Chinese travellers place safety above all other considerations when choosing overseas destinations. He argued that Thailand’s response has not yet appeared strong or clear enough to reassure the Chinese market. ATTA is urging the government to introduce concrete safety measures and communicate them clearly at the national level. Thanapol said authorities should present a step-by-step strategy explaining what actions will be taken, how incidents will be addressed and how success will be measured. The uncertainty has made Chinese tour operators increasingly cautious. Some agencies now see Thailand as a weaker market and are less willing to spend resources reassuring customers about safety issues. As a result, investment and marketing activity promoting Thailand have slowed. Higher oil prices have added further pressure by increasing aviation costs and making charter flight operations more difficult. More expensive air fares are also discouraging travel. Despite the challenges, ATTA is seeking new opportunities by targeting emerging markets in China. The association has launched roadshows in Urumqi in Xinjiang and Lanzhou in Gansu, areas viewed as having strong potential and less exposure to negative news about Thailand. ATTA is also pushing for charter flights from Urumqi to Thailand from August. Thanapol said Xinjiang could serve as a strategic gateway linking travellers to other destinations, including Dubai and Europe. The Nation reported that ATTA has called for a broader review of Thailand’s tourism promotion strategy. Thanapol said the country should encourage both inbound Chinese tourism and outbound travel by Thais to improve aviation balance and strengthen tourism exchanges. He also warned that Thailand must move more quickly to compete with rivals such as Malaysia, which has actively promoted itself in China and launched direct flights between Kuala Lumpur and Urumqi. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 5 June 2026 View full articleThu, 04 Jun 2026 21:15:02 +0000My phone possesses dictation which is dumber than a brick. My phone also possesses AI features that are frequently incorrect. So I would say in general my phone has an IQ of about 80.Thu, 04 Jun 2026 21:13:49 +0000You're right, the THIM app currently does not read the passport chip. I remembered that incorrectly when I posted earlier that did.Thu, 04 Jun 2026 21:11:49 +0000President Donald Trump’s net approval rating has dropped to its lowest level on record in a long-running polling tracker, as public concern grows over rising energy costs linked to the conflict with Iran. Get today's headlines by email Analysis by The Economist, which tracks presidential job approval using YouGov survey data dating back to 2009, found Trump’s net approval rating had fallen to minus 25 percentage points. According to the tracker, that makes him the most unpopular president recorded in the series. The decline comes as Americans face higher fuel prices following disruptions tied to the Iran conflict. The Trump administration remains engaged in negotiations with Tehran over a potential nuclear agreement and efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil shipments. Among the issues measured in the polling analysis, Trump received his weakest ratings on inflation and the cost of living. His net approval on prices and inflation stood at minus 43 percentage points. Economy and Energy ConcernsWhile the president scored better on issues such as employment, the broader economy, foreign policy, immigration and crime, rising household costs continue to weigh on public sentiment. According to AAA, the average price of gasoline in the United States exceeded $4 per gallon on Thursday, compared with roughly $3 per gallon a year earlier. White House officials have argued that higher energy prices are a temporary consequence of efforts aimed at achieving longer-term stability in the Middle East. Trump has also downplayed concerns about the economic impact on Americans. Speaking to reporters in May, he said his focus during negotiations with Iran was preventing Tehran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. Congressional PushbackThe economic effects of the conflict have also prompted criticism from some members of Trump’s own party. On Wednesday, four Republican lawmakers joined Democrats in supporting a war powers resolution designed to limit the administration’s military actions against Iran. Trump dismissed the measure in a post on Truth Social, describing the House vote as “meaningless”. He criticised the Republican lawmakers who supported the resolution and argued that Congress was attempting to restrict his authority while negotiations aimed at ending the conflict were still underway. The vote highlighted growing divisions in Washington over the administration’s handling of the Iran crisis, even as diplomatic efforts continue. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 5 June 2026 View full articleThu, 04 Jun 2026 21:09:34 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/thailand-launches-th-ai-passport-scheme-r2166/Thailand is set to launch the 1.621-billion-baht TH-AI Passport project, providing one year of professional-grade artificial intelligence access to five million citizens aged 15 and above. The initiative, administered by the Office of the National Digital Economy and Society Commission (ONDE), aims to boost AI adoption and digital skills across the country, but has already attracted scrutiny over its cost, procurement process and expected value for money. Get today's headlines by email The scheme will aggregate 12 AI models developed in partnership with Google, Microsoft and OpenAI into a single platform. Eligible users will gain access to advanced AI tools alongside training courses under a “Learn to Earn” framework, with completion of upskilling programmes required before higher-tier AI capabilities can be unlocked. Registration is scheduled to open on 5 June. The project comes as Thailand seeks to address a significant gap in AI adoption. According to the report Global AI Adoption in 2025: A Widening Digital Divide, Thailand’s AI usage rate stands at 10.7 per cent of the population, below the global average of 16.3 per cent and ranking 89th worldwide. Within Southeast Asia, Singapore leads with a 60.9 per cent adoption rate, followed by Vietnam at 23.5 per cent, Malaysia at 19.7 per cent, the Philippines at 18.3 per cent and Indonesia at 12.7 per cent. Government officials argue the project will remove financial barriers to advanced AI use. While professional subscriptions to major AI platforms typically cost around US$19 to US$20 per month per service, the government says national-scale procurement has reduced the cost to an estimated 27 baht per user per month. The initiative has drawn political attention. The opposition People’s Party has referred the project to anti-corruption agencies over procurement concerns. However, Minister Chaichanok Chidchob has denied any irregularities and confirmed that the programme will proceed as planned. Supporters of the project say professional-grade AI can help businesses analyse markets, create marketing materials, generate visual content and improve productivity. Students, freelancers and early-career workers could also benefit from tools that assist with job applications, portfolio development and career planning. The government views the programme as an investment in human capital rather than a simple software subsidy. Plans include roadshows across four regions, training activities and promotional campaigns aimed at encouraging registrations and participation. The Nation reported that whether TH-AI Passport succeeds in narrowing Thailand’s digital divide will depend on how effectively users adopt the technology and apply it to generate economic value. The outcome of the project will become clearer once registrations begin and participation levels emerge in the months ahead. Picture courtesy of The Nation Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 5 June 2026Thu, 04 Jun 2026 21:07:46 +0000Thailand is set to launch the 1.621-billion-baht TH-AI Passport project, providing one year of professional-grade artificial intelligence access to five million citizens aged 15 and above. The initiative, administered by the Office of the National Digital Economy and Society Commission (ONDE), aims to boost AI adoption and digital skills across the country, but has already attracted scrutiny over its cost, procurement process and expected value for money. Get today's headlines by email The scheme will aggregate 12 AI models developed in partnership with Google, Microsoft and OpenAI into a single platform. Eligible users will gain access to advanced AI tools alongside training courses under a “Learn to Earn” framework, with completion of upskilling programmes required before higher-tier AI capabilities can be unlocked. Registration is scheduled to open on 5 June. The project comes as Thailand seeks to address a significant gap in AI adoption. According to the report Global AI Adoption in 2025: A Widening Digital Divide, Thailand’s AI usage rate stands at 10.7 per cent of the population, below the global average of 16.3 per cent and ranking 89th worldwide. Within Southeast Asia, Singapore leads with a 60.9 per cent adoption rate, followed by Vietnam at 23.5 per cent, Malaysia at 19.7 per cent, the Philippines at 18.3 per cent and Indonesia at 12.7 per cent. Government officials argue the project will remove financial barriers to advanced AI use. While professional subscriptions to major AI platforms typically cost around US$19 to US$20 per month per service, the government says national-scale procurement has reduced the cost to an estimated 27 baht per user per month. The initiative has drawn political attention. The opposition People’s Party has referred the project to anti-corruption agencies over procurement concerns. However, Minister Chaichanok Chidchob has denied any irregularities and confirmed that the programme will proceed as planned. Supporters of the project say professional-grade AI can help businesses analyse markets, create marketing materials, generate visual content and improve productivity. Students, freelancers and early-career workers could also benefit from tools that assist with job applications, portfolio development and career planning. The government views the programme as an investment in human capital rather than a simple software subsidy. Plans include roadshows across four regions, training activities and promotional campaigns aimed at encouraging registrations and participation. The Nation reported that whether TH-AI Passport succeeds in narrowing Thailand’s digital divide will depend on how effectively users adopt the technology and apply it to generate economic value. The outcome of the project will become clearer once registrations begin and participation levels emerge in the months ahead. Picture courtesy of The Nation Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 5 June 2026 View full articleThu, 04 Jun 2026 21:07:46 +0000Anyone who doubts whether or not Trump is suffering from a lack of coherence should read these actual quotes from the man. "lt must be because of M.I.T., lmy relationship with M.I.T., very smart. I say, 'What would happen if the boat sank from its weight and you're in the boat and you have this tremendously powerful battery, and the battery is now underwater, and there's a shark that's approximately 10 yards over there?" Trump said. "By the way, lot of shark attacks lately. Did you notice that?" During a meeting with the European Commission president, Ursula von der Leyen, abruptly switched from discussing immigration to saying this: “The other thing I say to Europe: we’ve – we will not allow a windmill to be built in the United States. They’re killing us. They’re killing the beauty of our scenery.” Trump proceeded to speak, non-stop and unprompted, for two minutes about windmills, claiming without evidence that they drive whales “loco” and that wind energy “kills the birds” (the proportion of birds killed by turbines is tiny compared with the number killed by domestic cats and from flying into power lines). The abrupt changes in conversation are an example of Trump “digressing without thinking – he’ll just switch topics without self-regulation, without having a coherent narrative”, said Harry Segal, a senior lecturer in the psychology department at Cornell University and in the psychiatry department at Weill Cornell Medicine. Segal said another characteristic of Trump’s questionable mental acuity is confabulation. “It’s where he takes an idea or something that’s happened and he adds to it things that have not happened.” A high-profile example came in mid-July, when Trump claimed his uncle, the late professor John Trump, had taught Ted Kaczynski, better known as the Unabomber, at MIT. Trump recalled: “I said: ‘What kind of a student was he, Uncle John? Dr John Trump.’ I said: ‘What kind of a student?’ And then he said: ‘Seriously, good.’ He said: ‘He’d correct – he’d go around correcting everybody.’ But it didn’t work out too well for him.” The problem is: that cannot possibly be true. First, Trump’s uncle died in 1985, and Kaczynski was only publicly identified as the Unabomber in 1996. Second, Kaczynski did not study at MIT. “The story makes no sense whatsoever, but it’s told in a very warm, reflective way, as if he’s remembering it,” Segal said. “This level of thinking really has been deteriorating.” I got rid of – just one I got rid of the other night, you buy a house, they have a faucet in the house, Joe, and the faucet the water doesn’t come out. They have a restrictor. You can’t – in areas where you have so much water they don’t know what to do with it. Uh, you have a shower head the shower doesn’t uh, the shower doesn’t, you think it’s not working. It is working. The water’s dripping out and that’s no good for me. I like this hair lace and [sic] – I like that hair nice and wet. Takes you – you have to stand in the shower for 20 minutes before you get the soap out of your hair. And I put a, a thing – and it sounds funny but it’s really not. It’s horrible. And uh, when you wash your hands, you turn on the faucet, no water comes out. You’re washing whole – water barely comes out it’s ridi – this was done by crazy people. And I wor – wrote it all off and got it approved in Congress so that they can’t just change it.” “Any fair-minded mental-health expert would be very worried about Donald Trump’s performance,” Richard A Friedman, a professor of clinical psychiatry and the director of the psychopharmacology clinic at Weill Cornell Medical College. He added: “If a patient presented to me with the verbal incoherence, tangential thinking, and repetitive speech that Trump now regularly demonstrates, I would almost certainly refer them for a rigorous neuropsychiatric evaluation to rule out a cognitive illness.” Very scary stuff from a very scary man.Thu, 04 Jun 2026 21:05:23 +0000Pollution readings from monitors stuck on skyscrapers do give you one reading, but the real danger you will face in Thailand is car emissions. There is literally no control on this - and you regularly get public busses, cars blowing black smoke all over the place. THIS IS THE REAL DANGER on ground level.Thu, 04 Jun 2026 21:03:59 +0000Where are all his defenders?Thu, 04 Jun 2026 21:03:43 +0000Several airline staff were injured after the nose landing gear of a Boeing 787 operated by Lufthansa collapsed unexpectedly while the aircraft was parked at a gate at Frankfurt Airport on Thursday. Get today's headlines by email The incident occurred at about 12:45 p.m. local time as the aircraft was preparing for a scheduled flight to Los Angeles, Lufthansa said. Passengers had not yet boarded the aircraft when the collapse happened. However, crew members and ground personnel were on board at the time. Staff Injured During Ground IncidentLufthansa said a number of employees sustained injuries and were receiving medical treatment. "Several staff members were injured and are currently receiving medical treatment," the airline said in a statement. The carrier did not provide details on the number or severity of the injuries. Aircraft Grounded at Frankfurt AirportPhotographs from the scene showed emergency vehicles surrounding the twin-engine widebody aircraft, which was resting partially on its underside after the nose gear gave way. The aircraft had been scheduled to operate Flight LH450 from Frankfurt to Los Angeles. A spokesperson for Boeing said the company was aware of the incident and was assisting Lufthansa but declined to comment further. Investigation Under WayLufthansa said it was working with the relevant authorities to determine the cause of the collapse. "We are currently investigating the exact circumstances with the relevant authorities," the airline said. No information has yet been released regarding potential mechanical issues or other factors that may have contributed to the incident. Key Aircraft in Lufthansa Fleet PlansThe Boeing 787 is a relatively recent addition to Lufthansa's fleet. The airline operates the 787-9 variant as part of a broader strategy to modernise operations, improve fuel efficiency and simplify its aircraft portfolio. The carrier has been gradually introducing the aircraft while phasing out older, less efficient models. The incident is likely to draw attention as investigators seek to establish why the landing gear failed while the aircraft was stationary at the gate. META: Several Lufthansa staff were injured after the nose landing gear of a Boeing 787 collapsed at Frankfurt Airport before passengers boarded, prompting an investigation. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 5 June 2026 View full articleThu, 04 Jun 2026 21:03:40 +0000This will have the opposite effect on foreign investment.Thu, 04 Jun 2026 21:01:37 +0000