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<rss version="2.0"><channel><title>Thailand news</title><link>https://aseannow.com/rss/44-thailand-news.xml/</link><description>National and regional news from all around Thailand</description><language>en</language><item><title>Word Association - 2026</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1383425-word-association-2026/?do=findComment&comment=20560031]]></link><description>Lucerne</description><pubDate>Fri, 19 Jun 2026 05:00:07 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Pattaya&#x2019;s expat underworld: when does gossip become &#x201C;fact&#x201D;?</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1394847-pattayas-expat-underworld-when-does-gossip-become-fact/?do=findComment&comment=20560030]]></link><description><![CDATA[Thanks for that I had difficult reading your press clipping sop I ran it through AI ...   No 63 Quarterly | April 2010 Nine-year Press Freedom battle is wonANDREW IS VINDICATEDFREELANCE Andrew Drummond, 58, has been vindicated in his courageous fight to expose what happened to two Britons who invested in a hotel and a gay night-club owned by two Scots in Pattaya, Thailand. The Thai Appeal Court cleared Andrew of two convictions of criminal libel against James Lumsden, 59. He and his partner Gordon May, 67, were the biggest foreign players in the resort's gay sex industry. The Appeal Judges, Soramee Sirmunakan, Sitisak Wanachikij, and Ariya Navinturn ruled: "The defendant was doing his job as a journalist, making facts public for foreigners doing business in Thailand. There is nothing defamatory in what he wrote." FireAndrew revealed the misfortunes that befell Ian Macdonald and Kevin Quill after they went into business with Lumsden and May. Macdonald died in a fire and Quill was framed and jailed for six years. Andrew's sweet victory came after a nine-year court battle during which he lived under the constant threat of imprisonment and saw his income plummet as he grappled to fight the case. He had to sell his part share of his house in England to raise money for his legal costs. BAJ launched a campaign fund in 2004 with the Foreign Correspondents Club in Thailand to help Andrew meet his legal costs and living expenses. The campaign raised £8,500 in the UK, including £1,000 from BAJ. Andrew, worked at the Daily Mail and was an award-winning investigative journalist at the News of the World. He is the former correspondent of The Times and The Observer in Thailand, and more recently exposed the sordid life of ex-rock star Gary Glitter in Vietnam. Andrew said: "I am very pleased. But this is small consolation for Ian Macdonald's family and Kevin Quill and his family. Their lives have been devastated. "My thanks must go to General Secretary Steve Turner for his never-ending support and encouragement and my colleagues on newspapers in the UK and their homes who helped pay my expenses." Turner said: "Andrew's acquittal is wonderful news. He had the threat of prison hanging over him for years, but he didn't flinch from standing up for justice. "Andrew acted in the best traditions of journalism and I am extremely proud to have supported him. He has given every journalist cause to celebrate."  Andrew's original reports were printed in London and Glasgow. However, Lumsden chose not to sue until the Bangkok Post printed two of Andrew's stories. Unfortunately, the Bangkok Post chose not to fight alongside Andrew when Lumsden issued legal proceedings. It capitulated to Lumsden, printing three apologies attributing blame to Andrew. The newspaper also reported the verdict of a lower court to impose two suspended prison sentences of two years each on Andrew for criminal libel. It has, so far, refused to report Andrew's acquittal. The story Andrew uncovered was that in April 1990, Macdonald, 28, the son of a former Provost of Inverness, died in a fire at the Ambiance Hotel in Pattaya, owned by Lumsden &amp; May. It was just one month after he had inexplicably bequeathed his £250,000 investment in May and Lumsden's business, to May's boyfriend — a Thai male a-go-go dancer. IllegalThe will was illegal, because it was signed by the beneficiary. The a-go-go dancer got nothing and Ian's mother, Eileen MacDonald got nothing either. A second businessman Kevin Quill, 39, from Bradford, Yorkshire, invested over £300,000 in another hotel-and-bar business with May and Lumsden. Quill was arrested in 2000 by Pattaya police after leaving the Ambiance Hotel. When police searched his luggage they found drugs in a packet of cigarettes. A senior policeman in Bangkok admitted Quill was framed, but the business man was jailed for six years and never got his money back. BAJ salutes Andrew for his tenacious and successful fight for the right of journalists to expose wrong-doing.]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 19 Jun 2026 04:59:52 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Misunderstanding  about land lease</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1396964-misunderstanding-about-land-lease/?do=findComment&comment=20560029]]></link><description><![CDATA[Yep, definitely a scenario I experienced and seen a lot of.  Myself, 1st short Thai wife marriage, and saying 'NO' was a big riff in our short relationship.  Many don't seem to know how to say NO.  Present wife, irrelevant, as her family all seem to have more jiggle in their pockets &amp; equity than I'll ever have here in TH.   Plus, they like me, and use to visit one sis almost weekly, another monthly.     Neither of us want to live near her family, only because of their location, Udon, NBLP, Krung Thep &amp; north of.   After 16 yrs, couldn't wait to leave Udon area.  Nice metro area, but town itself is too congested now, along with not the best air quality part of the year.   Really liked the cooler weather, though short lived.  NO THANKS]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 19 Jun 2026 04:58:57 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Pattaya Tourists Report Herbal Scam by Foreign Sellers</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1397042-pattaya-tourists-report-herbal-scam-by-foreign-sellers/?do=findComment&comment=20560028]]></link><description>These morons probably would have  brought the Sydney harbour bridge if that had been offered for 100,000baht. One born every minute.&#x1F604;</description><pubDate>Fri, 19 Jun 2026 04:58:55 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA[Teen Boy Admits Killing Girlfriend & Dumping Body in Rubbish Bin]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1397034-teen-boy-admits-killing-girlfriend-dumping-body-in-rubbish-bin/?do=findComment&comment=20560027]]></link><description>Nobody is killed out of jealousy in other countries. Only Thailand.</description><pubDate>Fri, 19 Jun 2026 04:58:48 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Tuk-Tuk Driver Surrenders Over Briton&#x2019;s Death in Phuket</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1397007-tuk-tuk-driver-surrenders-over-britons-death-in-phuket/?do=findComment&comment=20560026]]></link><description>I can't see where it is even mentioned.</description><pubDate>Fri, 19 Jun 2026 04:58:06 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>BYD Says Dolphin Fire in Khon Kaen Linked to External Power System</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1396893-byd-says-dolphin-fire-in-khon-kaen-linked-to-external-power-system/?do=findComment&comment=20560025]]></link><description>Maybe so, but unfortunately you don't understand about what really goes on in real life.</description><pubDate>Fri, 19 Jun 2026 04:57:07 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA[Teen Boy Admits Killing Girlfriend & Dumping Body in Rubbish Bin]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1397034-teen-boy-admits-killing-girlfriend-dumping-body-in-rubbish-bin/?do=findComment&comment=20560024]]></link><description>Yep, but doesn't give you the right to murder anyone. Just walk away and find someone else.</description><pubDate>Fri, 19 Jun 2026 04:57:00 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Iran's leader says Trump made deal 'out of desperation'</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1397029-irans-leader-says-trump-made-deal-out-of-desperation/?do=findComment&comment=20560023]]></link><description>The US strategic goals in Iran since 1980 has been the complete overthrow of the Iranian government and the return of a puppet government most likely led by Reza Pahlavi. I have no doubt that is still the US ultimate strategic goal.  But the reality of the world's oil supplies being drawn down with the US Strategic Oil Reserves being drained within a 4 to 8 weeks - a situation which encompasses most countries - and the economic destruction that would follow has kind of twisted Trump's arm behind is back.  However, don't rule out that a PO'd Netanyahu will direct the IDF to nuke Iran.  THAT! That would tank the world economy and Israel could care less. The world has changed and Iran is not one of the "crappy little countries that the US can throw against the wall" that is highlighted in the Ledeen Doctrine.  Ledeen Doctrine: &#x201C;Every ten years or so, the United States needs to pick up some small crappy little country and throw it against the wall, just to show the world we mean business.&#x201D;  It's corollary is the Trump Doctine: "During my second term I'm going to throw every crappy little country I can get my hands on against the wall to prove I'm 'The Boss' and ultimately the ruler of the known world.  Thank you for your attention on this matter.  Make America A Hegemon Again.  Praise Allah.  Donald J. Trump"</description><pubDate>Fri, 19 Jun 2026 04:56:41 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Iranian Singer Sentenced To 74 Lashes After Performing Without Hijab</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1397056-iranian-singer-sentenced-to-74-lashes-after-performing-without-hijab/?do=findComment&comment=20560022]]></link><description>Is this noting the sentence or people's opinions?</description><pubDate>Fri, 19 Jun 2026 04:56:25 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>What Movies or TV shows are you watching (2026)</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1383422-what-movies-or-tv-shows-are-you-watching-2026/?do=findComment&comment=20560021]]></link><description>I've started watching all the old "Twilight Zone" programs, I want to see if there are any that I have not seen.</description><pubDate>Fri, 19 Jun 2026 04:55:31 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Those little things that escalate and drive you mad</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1396979-those-little-things-that-escalate-and-drive-you-mad/?do=findComment&comment=20560020]]></link><description>Why not just order a chrome cast for second tv ?</description><pubDate>Fri, 19 Jun 2026 04:55:14 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Indian Community Leader Raises Pattaya Scam Alert</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1397008-indian-community-leader-raises-pattaya-scam-alert/?do=findComment&comment=20560019]]></link><description>Happened to me several times when I was in Pattaya last year - for a mere four days.  All approaches made on second road close to Kiss food. Like bloody flies. I brushed them off though one was persistent and tried again a day later. That's when I started to get unpleasant and confrontational and he soon peeled off.  The filth that's allowed into Thailand nowadays is lousier than it's ever been. Speaking after over 20 years experience of months long stays. Absolute filth.  But you don't have to buy.</description><pubDate>Fri, 19 Jun 2026 04:54:55 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Moscow oil refinery up in flames: Putin humiliated by huge DroneStrike</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1396903-moscow-oil-refinery-up-in-flames-putin-humiliated-by-huge-dronestrike/?do=findComment&comment=20560018]]></link><description>Unfortunately, I think it's just a matter of time before Putin loses his patience.</description><pubDate>Fri, 19 Jun 2026 04:53:53 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Iranian Singer Sentenced To 74 Lashes After Performing Without Hijab</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1397056-iranian-singer-sentenced-to-74-lashes-after-performing-without-hijab/?do=findComment&comment=20560017]]></link><description>Iranian Singer Sentenced To 74 Lashes After Performing Without Hijab  Iranian singer Parastoo Ahmadi and eight members of her production team have reportedly been sentenced to 74 lashes after a livestream performance that authorities deemed unlawful. The punishment stems from a December 2024 broadcast in which Ahmadi performed the patriotic song &#x201C;As Khoone Javane Vatan&#x201D; (&#x201C;From the Blood of the Youth of the Homeland&#x201D;) without wearing a hijab. The performance attracted millions of views online and quickly became a symbol of cultural defiance inside Iran. Viral Performance Draws Regime BacklashAccording to reports, Ahmadi and the musicians involved were briefly detained following the livestream before being released. Court documents reviewed by media outlets indicate that Iranian authorities later imposed a sentence of 74 lashes on the singer and members of the production team. They were also handed a two-year ban on leaving Iran and prohibited from engaging in artistic activities for the same period. The case has reignited criticism of Iran's restrictions on women and artists, particularly those who challenge compulsory hijab rules. Rights Groups Condemn PunishmentHuman rights advocates argue that the sentence has no basis in Iranian criminal law. Lawyer Moein Khazaeli said that singing, performing music and producing musical works by women are not criminal offences under Iranian law and questioned how such activities could be classified as criminal conduct. Rights organisations described the punishment as part of a wider crackdown on cultural expression and dissent. Bahar Ghandehari of the Center for Human Rights in Iran said the ruling demonstrated that conditions for artists and women remain unchanged despite efforts by Iranian authorities to improve their international image. Pattern Of Crackdowns On ArtistsThe case follows other punishments handed down to musicians who have challenged government restrictions. Earlier this year, Iranian singer Mehdi Yarrahi reportedly received 74 lashes over a song supporting the Women, Life, Freedom movement, which emerged after nationwide protests against the country's strict social laws. Human rights groups say artists, activists and women who oppose compulsory hijab regulations continue to face arrest, detention and harsh judicial penalties. Wider Unrest Still Haunts IranThe sentence comes against the backdrop of years of political unrest across Iran. Large anti-government demonstrations triggered by economic hardship and social grievances have repeatedly been met with severe crackdowns by authorities. Human rights organisations say thousands of protesters have been killed, injured or detained during waves of unrest, while internet restrictions have often been imposed during periods of heightened tension. Critics argue the punishment of Ahmadi is the latest example of Tehran's determination to silence voices viewed as challenging the authority of the Islamic Republic.  SOURCE</description><enclosure url="https://assets.aseannow.com/forum/uploads/monthly_2026_06/IranianSinger74lashes.jpg.67e2c24f58526131d3f14257aabad279.jpg" length="24816" type="image/jpeg"/><pubDate>Fri, 19 Jun 2026 04:53:44 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA[Teen Boy Admits Killing Girlfriend & Dumping Body in Rubbish Bin]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1397034-teen-boy-admits-killing-girlfriend-dumping-body-in-rubbish-bin/?do=findComment&comment=20560016]]></link><description>Both parents need to take responsibility for the youngster&#x2019;s  action as well. This is going to destroy the youth&#x2019;s future .</description><pubDate>Fri, 19 Jun 2026 04:53:39 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA[Phuket Land & Nominee Crackdown Ordered]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1397043-phuket-land-nominee-crackdown-ordered/?do=findComment&comment=20560015]]></link><description>So the Thai's who more than likely knew the land was being sold to a foreigner now get their land back.Win,win situation</description><pubDate>Fri, 19 Jun 2026 04:53:28 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>T1 Trump phone is NOT  made in the US</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1396585-t1-trump-phone-is-not-made-in-the-us/?do=findComment&comment=20560014]]></link><description>More dishonesty from you. What I said was: "I do not remember the left getting all bent about the "Obama Phones"."  And then another member posted an explanation of what the "Obama Phone" was, yet when you quoted him, you dishonestly   clipped everything below: "Obama did not sell, create, or launch a program for "Obama phones."", which explained that "Obama Phone" was a popular nickname for a phone giveaway program. Correct? I know it's hard, but try to be honest.   Did the left get all bent about the phone giveaway program that was commonly known as "Obama Phone"? No, the left did not. So my claim was truthful.   In my original post I put "Obama Phone" in quotes, did you not notice that? Your seething hatred of Trump seems to blind you.  In other words, just more evidence of your lack of integrity.</description><pubDate>Fri, 19 Jun 2026 04:53:27 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>How California became a case study in failed governance</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1396943-how-california-became-a-case-study-in-failed-governance/?do=findComment&comment=20560013]]></link><description>Yet, private employment has been continuously increasing.  https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/SMS06000000500000001?utm_source=copilot.com</description><enclosure url="https://assets.aseannow.com/forum/uploads/monthly_2026_06/Screenshot_20260619_065017_SamsungBrowser.jpg.b9309f2b93da5d984e92f58652fefb60.jpg" length="62053" type="image/jpeg"/><pubDate>Fri, 19 Jun 2026 04:52:49 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Senate Republicans Raise Alarm Over Trump Iran Deal</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1397012-senate-republicans-raise-alarm-over-trump-iran-deal/?do=findComment&comment=20560012]]></link><description>What happened 47 years ago was partly due to the US and UK going in and controlling the oil.</description><pubDate>Fri, 19 Jun 2026 04:52:18 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Andy Burnham Wins Makerfield Seat, Pressure Grows on Starmer</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1397053-andy-burnham-wins-makerfield-seat-pressure-grows-on-starmer/?do=findComment&comment=20560011]]></link><description>More pressure on lame duck Starmer.  Burnham the sixth form socialist who looks like he wants to be in a Housemartins tribute band is going to oust him. Given the alternatives like calamity Lammy and the ginger growler Rayner he's probably the best of a woeful  bunch.  See you in Davos, Starmer - you revolting  tyrant.</description><pubDate>Fri, 19 Jun 2026 04:52:10 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>The Women Who Don&#x2019;t Fit the Story...</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1397023-the-women-who-dont-fit-the-story/?do=findComment&comment=20560010]]></link><description>What a desperate chap your friend must be.......</description><pubDate>Fri, 19 Jun 2026 04:52:04 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Do you believe in Anything? And, why?</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1396716-do-you-believe-in-anything-and-why/?do=findComment&comment=20560009]]></link><description>My philosophy exactly.</description><pubDate>Fri, 19 Jun 2026 04:50:54 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Indian Community Leader Raises Pattaya Scam Alert</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1397008-indian-community-leader-raises-pattaya-scam-alert/?do=findComment&comment=20560008]]></link><description>Moved on from grooming by the looks of it</description><pubDate>Fri, 19 Jun 2026 04:49:52 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>BYD Says Dolphin Fire in Khon Kaen Linked to External Power System</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1396893-byd-says-dolphin-fire-in-khon-kaen-linked-to-external-power-system/?do=findComment&comment=20560007]]></link><description>Wow, your local knowledge is unbelievable Thank you, my ability to read statutes is not that bad either.</description><pubDate>Fri, 19 Jun 2026 04:49:46 +0000</pubDate></item></channel></rss>
