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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>Extortion In Thailand.</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395407-extortion-in-thailand/?do=findComment&comment=20524083]]></link><description>If  it was my daughter hanging out with people that had concrete solid knowledge about distortion she would have been grounded</description><pubDate>Tue, 26 May 2026 09:35:43 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Visa Exempt and e-Visa options</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395405-visa-exempt-and-e-visa-options/?do=findComment&comment=20524084]]></link><description>You really shouldn't see this as an entitlement that you can "save". Another IO at another checkpoint may well be of the opinion that you've already spent too much time in Thailand as a tourist - especially seeing that you went to Savannakhet in February already, presumably also coming from Thailand with a previous stay as a tourist that had started last year.  So it really is a no-brainer: The IO told you that they'll let you in visa exempt again, AND now it'sstill 60 days, but that deal will get worse soon. The tourist visa, on the other hand, won't change, so get another visa exempt entry now and a tourist visa later.</description><pubDate>Tue, 26 May 2026 09:35:43 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Chinese Man Attacks Ladyboy in Pattaya Hotel</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395387-chinese-man-attacks-ladyboy-in-pattaya-hotel/?do=findComment&comment=20524082]]></link><description>Yeah fair enough, this time the stars aligned for him. I still wouldn&#x2019;t bank on Pattaya-to-booking-a-plane-sitting-there-waiting-for-him (with empty seats) in 5 hours as a long-term travel strategy though &#x1F602;</description><pubDate>Tue, 26 May 2026 09:35:15 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Thai Lawmakers Propose Jail for Repeat Drug Users</title><link>https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/thai-lawmakers-propose-jail-for-repeat-drug-users-r2002/</link><description>Thailand's House of Representatives President Sophon Saram has called for a revision of the country's drug laws to impose stricter penalties on repeat drug users, advocating for imprisonment over rehabilitation. This move comes amidst concerns that the current approach, which categorizes drug users as patients rather than criminals, may not effectively deter repeated drug use.  Get today's headlines by email   Previously, Thailand enforced prosecution and imprisonment for drug possession based on the severity of the offense. In recent years, however, the government has shifted towards treating drug use with rehabilitation, arguing it is a more sustainable solution. According to the Narcotics Law of 2021, drug users are seen as patients, and rehabilitation rather than prosecution is emphasized to address addiction.  Under this policy, individuals caught with small quantities of drugs intended for personal use are encouraged to seek treatment voluntarily, avoiding legal prosecution. This approach distinguishes users from dealers, who face harsher penalties based on the amount of drugs in their possession.  Sophon visited Khu Mueang Hospital in Buriram on May 25, a state-run rehabilitation center, to discuss these issues with officials and drug users. Following the visit, he underscored the need for stricter legal measures due to the high rate of relapse among users who complete rehabilitation programs.  Sophon suggests reverting to earlier laws to impose jail time on those who relapse. He also plans to convene a parliamentary meeting with agencies involved in drug suppression, treatment, and rehabilitation to explore possible amendments to the drug laws. No date has been set for this meeting.  Join the discussion?   Already a member?     Adapted by ASEAN Now &#xB7; The Thaiger &#xB7; 26 May 2026</description><enclosure url="https://assets.aseannow.com/forum/uploads/monthly_2026_05/Thaiger-Cover-Picture-2026-05-26T110439_193.jpg.e5513fda71a62082e6ddaeb5e2d7a251.jpg" length="144256" type="image/jpeg"/><pubDate>Tue, 26 May 2026 09:34:39 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Thai Lawmakers Propose Jail for Repeat Drug Users</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395437-thai-lawmakers-propose-jail-for-repeat-drug-users/?do=findComment&comment=20524081]]></link><description>Thailand's House of Representatives President Sophon Saram has called for a revision of the country's drug laws to impose stricter penalties on repeat drug users, advocating for imprisonment over rehabilitation. This move comes amidst concerns that the current approach, which categorizes drug users as patients rather than criminals, may not effectively deter repeated drug use.  Get today's headlines by email   Previously, Thailand enforced prosecution and imprisonment for drug possession based on the severity of the offense. In recent years, however, the government has shifted towards treating drug use with rehabilitation, arguing it is a more sustainable solution. According to the Narcotics Law of 2021, drug users are seen as patients, and rehabilitation rather than prosecution is emphasized to address addiction.  Under this policy, individuals caught with small quantities of drugs intended for personal use are encouraged to seek treatment voluntarily, avoiding legal prosecution. This approach distinguishes users from dealers, who face harsher penalties based on the amount of drugs in their possession.  Sophon visited Khu Mueang Hospital in Buriram on May 25, a state-run rehabilitation center, to discuss these issues with officials and drug users. Following the visit, he underscored the need for stricter legal measures due to the high rate of relapse among users who complete rehabilitation programs.  Sophon suggests reverting to earlier laws to impose jail time on those who relapse. He also plans to convene a parliamentary meeting with agencies involved in drug suppression, treatment, and rehabilitation to explore possible amendments to the drug laws. No date has been set for this meeting.  Join the discussion?   Already a member?     Adapted by ASEAN Now &#xB7; The Thaiger &#xB7; 26 May 2026 

 
View full article</description><pubDate>Tue, 26 May 2026 09:34:39 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>US strikes missile site /mine layers</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395422-us-strikes-missile-site-mine-layers/?do=findComment&comment=20524080]]></link><description>&#x201C;The United States launched overnight strikes on southern Iran, endangering a fragile ceasefire as Washington tries to reach a deal to end their war. American military commanders said they had hit missile launch sites and boats trying to lay mines, but insisted the strikes were &#x201C;defensive&#x201D; and the truce still held. Iran&#x2019;s Revolutionary Guard Corps &#x200C;said it reserved the &#x201C;legitimate and definite&#x201D; right &#x200C;to &#x200C;retaliate &#x2060;against any ceasefire violations &#x2060;by the US, adding that its air defence units had shot down a US stealth drone and fired at a fighter jet that had entered Iranian airspace.&#x201D;  Excerpt From &#x201C;US strikes Iran threatening fragile ceasefire&#x201D; The Telegraph https://apple.news/AjMwJo6RaR-KN6UWJoxjynw This material may be protected by copyright.</description><pubDate>Tue, 26 May 2026 09:34:05 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Tulsi Gabbard Resigns as US Intelligence Chief</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395155-tulsi-gabbard-resigns-as-us-intelligence-chief/?do=findComment&comment=20524079]]></link><description>So, as I said, the JCPOA did nothing to restrict Iran's development and production of intercontinental ballistic missiles and military drones.   And the JCPOA allowed Iran to continue their nuclear program, including enrichment, correct?   Yes, the JCPOA mandated inspections, but only in the areas Iran agreed to allow inspections, correct?</description><pubDate>Tue, 26 May 2026 09:33:36 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Extortion In Thailand.</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395407-extortion-in-thailand/?do=findComment&comment=20524078]]></link><description>Me. 15 years entrenched myself on the island till 2014 with multiple businesses and multiple friends with an array of businesses.......Completely untrue broadsweeping statement..............</description><pubDate>Tue, 26 May 2026 09:32:19 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Word Association - 2026</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1383425-word-association-2026/?do=findComment&comment=20524077]]></link><description>Mate</description><pubDate>Tue, 26 May 2026 09:32:12 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Customs Officers Seize Illegal Tirzepatide at Suvarnabhumi Airport</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395435-customs-officers-seize-illegal-tirzepatide-at-suvarnabhumi-airport/?do=findComment&comment=20524076]]></link><description>Someone said on another thread that the Brits will catch up with the Chinese on misdeeds... I don't think so, as the Chinese are completely out of control and respect nothing and nowhere with laws just being an abstract idea.</description><pubDate>Tue, 26 May 2026 09:30:45 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Extortion In Thailand.</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395407-extortion-in-thailand/?do=findComment&comment=20524074]]></link><description>Seriously how would know? I get first hand information from my step daughter and her friends. So what is the source where you claim " not true at all."</description><pubDate>Tue, 26 May 2026 09:29:29 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Trump Orders Migrants to Apply Abroad for Green Cards</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395163-trump-orders-migrants-to-apply-abroad-for-green-cards/?do=findComment&comment=20524075]]></link><description>You can leave ,but there's no way that they are going to let you back in again ,  regards worgeordie</description><pubDate>Tue, 26 May 2026 09:29:29 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Extension non o ( marriage )</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395436-extension-non-o-marriage/?do=findComment&comment=20524073]]></link><description>I will be extending my visa based on marriage at cheang wattana .     I am a bit confused&#x2026;. Is it money in the bank for 2 months or is money in the bank for 2 months + 1 month?    In the past they never asked to see bank book again after the first apply. But I just read that someone was recently asked to show again when they picked up results .</description><pubDate>Tue, 26 May 2026 09:28:48 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>JAPAN: 20 Million People &#x2014; All Excess Deaths Were Covid Jabbed</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395351-japan-20-million-people-all-excess-deaths-were-covid-jabbed/?do=findComment&comment=20524072]]></link><description>If I may be so frank to mention small pox (now eradicated by vaccines) polio,  (nearly eradicated by vaccines) +++ would that alter you misconception?</description><pubDate>Tue, 26 May 2026 09:28:44 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Foreign Woman Leaves Restaurant Unpaid in Phuket</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395344-foreign-woman-leaves-restaurant-unpaid-in-phuket/?do=findComment&comment=20524071]]></link><description>It certainly seems like the mistake originated with the staff, assuming the issue was sugar mistakenly being added.  Once the mistake has been made, I do think the customer has the choice of requesting a replacement, or cancelling the order.   Personally I think I would normally opt for a replacement, with the exception of if it means the item will arrive too late.   There are some personality issues involved too. If I was on good terms with the cafe/staff because I&#x2019;m a regular, I think I would be far more likely to simply go with a replacement. Catch me in a grumpy mood at a place that is charging an higher than average price and maybe the pendulum swings more toward just cancelling the order.  But I take your point, it&#x2019;s not just about this one instance, it&#x2019;s about the fact that nationalistic fervor, for want of a better phrase, whips it up into a story because the customer was a farang.  And it&#x2019;s an indication that farang/thai relations aren&#x2019;t at the best right now.</description><pubDate>Tue, 26 May 2026 09:27:34 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Your advice on transferring monthly amounts here by WISE</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395304-your-advice-on-transferring-monthly-amounts-here-by-wise/?do=findComment&comment=20524070]]></link><description>I was very afraid to use WISE, but still did a comparison of my cost to transfer from my CHASE account using the SWIFT system. With SWIFT, you get the luck of the draw on your exchange rate (meaning the Baht could have a sudden strengthening between the time you gave the instruction or the bank gets around to your instructions. Of course the opposite could occur).  The point is that until you money arrives in your Thai account, you are at the mercy of the "Buying" rate, which is lower than what WISE will offer you, which currently is 32.665 at this moment.  WISE will take their fee from the amount that you are transfer.  To transfer $1,000 will cost you $9.65 and will be deducted from the US$1,000 before they complete the exchange (so you will only get $990.35 actually exchanged), but the key thing is your transfer exchange and all cost is locked in. In this example, the net rate comes to 32.35 baht/$.  The cost for a Chase transfer and the buying rate today of 32.5 will actually equate to 31.25 when you add in the bank's charge of $40 to pay for the transfer.  That was a long way to saying I use WISE all the time.  My daughter who was in Poland for many years used WISE all the time (and never told me about it until last year).  The only glitch I've had is when I try to make a 2nd transfer in less than 5 working days.  They won't do it.  Anyway, yes, I recommend them. I've never tried to use Wise to send money to the US.</description><pubDate>Tue, 26 May 2026 09:27:33 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Iran and North Korea. Brothers in arms and the nuclear question.</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395265-iran-and-north-korea-brothers-in-arms-and-the-nuclear-question/?do=findComment&comment=20524069]]></link><description>Quote: Highly radioactive, short half-lives: It is the materials with very short half-lives (hours, days, or years) that are highly dangerous. They release all their energy rapidly, producing massive amounts of immediate, harmful radiation.  = This is what modern nuclear weapons are designed for.  It seems to me that some posters here are making an effort to "belittle" atomic warfare. According to Donald Trumps statement "We have atomic weapons, why don't we use them". Frightening.  I too know a little about radioactive decay. For example: Even a Banana emits radioactivity. Althoug only measurable by very advanced "detectors". Did you know that?</description><pubDate>Tue, 26 May 2026 09:27:05 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Customs Officers Seize Illegal Tirzepatide at Suvarnabhumi Airport</title><link>https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/customs-officers-seize-illegal-tirzepatide-at-suvarnabhumi-airport-r2001/</link><description>Customs officers at Suvarnabhumi Airport arrested a Chinese passenger on May 23 after discovering 137 packages of Tirzepatide, a medication used for diabetes and weight loss, not cleared through customs. This seizure, valued at over 2.13 million baht (approximately $65,000), highlights enforcement efforts against unauthorized imports.  Get today's headlines by email   The passenger arrived from Bangladesh and now faces charges under the Customs Act 2017 for importing goods without proper procedures. The individual is also charged under the Drug Act 1967, with potential additional charges related to the importation of controlled substances. Tirzepatide, primarily for type 2 diabetes treatment, is also gaining attention for its weight loss benefits, making it a high-demand item.  As Thailand recognizes World Diabetes Day, the Public Health Ministry has raised concerns about the 6.5 million Thais at risk for diabetes. Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin emphasized adopting healthier habits, noting that 40% of diabetics are unaware of their condition. The ministry promoted carbohydrate counting and balanced diets to reduce diabetes risk.  Programs by Thailand&#x2019;s village health volunteer network also stress low-sugar diets and regular exercise. The Department of Disease Control (DDC) encourages reducing salty, oily, and sugary foods, while advising regular physical activity and stress management to maintain health.  Looking ahead, the arrested passenger will face legal proceedings, while Thai health authorities continue efforts to educate the public on diabetes prevention and management. This incident underscores the importance of regulatory compliance and the rising demand for diabetes-related treatments.  Join the discussion?   Already a member?     Adapted by ASEAN Now &#xB7; The Thaiger &#xB7; 26 May 2026</description><enclosure url="https://assets.aseannow.com/forum/uploads/monthly_2026_05/-23-34-2026-05-26T151236_803.jpg.893ced7d7ba1b7ac594e7af3036c1a75.jpg" length="260090" type="image/jpeg"/><pubDate>Tue, 26 May 2026 09:26:59 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Customs Officers Seize Illegal Tirzepatide at Suvarnabhumi Airport</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395435-customs-officers-seize-illegal-tirzepatide-at-suvarnabhumi-airport/?do=findComment&comment=20524068]]></link><description>Customs officers at Suvarnabhumi Airport arrested a Chinese passenger on May 23 after discovering 137 packages of Tirzepatide, a medication used for diabetes and weight loss, not cleared through customs. This seizure, valued at over 2.13 million baht (approximately $65,000), highlights enforcement efforts against unauthorized imports.  Get today's headlines by email   The passenger arrived from Bangladesh and now faces charges under the Customs Act 2017 for importing goods without proper procedures. The individual is also charged under the Drug Act 1967, with potential additional charges related to the importation of controlled substances. Tirzepatide, primarily for type 2 diabetes treatment, is also gaining attention for its weight loss benefits, making it a high-demand item.  As Thailand recognizes World Diabetes Day, the Public Health Ministry has raised concerns about the 6.5 million Thais at risk for diabetes. Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin emphasized adopting healthier habits, noting that 40% of diabetics are unaware of their condition. The ministry promoted carbohydrate counting and balanced diets to reduce diabetes risk.  Programs by Thailand&#x2019;s village health volunteer network also stress low-sugar diets and regular exercise. The Department of Disease Control (DDC) encourages reducing salty, oily, and sugary foods, while advising regular physical activity and stress management to maintain health.  Looking ahead, the arrested passenger will face legal proceedings, while Thai health authorities continue efforts to educate the public on diabetes prevention and management. This incident underscores the importance of regulatory compliance and the rising demand for diabetes-related treatments.  Join the discussion?   Already a member?     Adapted by ASEAN Now &#xB7; The Thaiger &#xB7; 26 May 2026 

 
View full article</description><pubDate>Tue, 26 May 2026 09:26:59 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Extortion In Thailand.</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395407-extortion-in-thailand/?do=findComment&comment=20524067]]></link><description>Fair call, thanks</description><pubDate>Tue, 26 May 2026 09:26:30 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Tulsi Gabbard Resigns as US Intelligence Chief</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395155-tulsi-gabbard-resigns-as-us-intelligence-chief/?do=findComment&comment=20524066]]></link><description>This is incorrect JCPOA was used to supervise irans nuclear program  inspections were carried out !!  The JCPOA  did not impose direct or verifiable limits on Iran's development or testing of intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) or military drones. The 2015 nuclear agreement strictly focused on limiting Iran's nuclear program.  Here is how ballistic missiles and military drones relate to the agreement: Military Drones (UAVs): The JCPOA itself contained no restrictions on drone production. However, Annex B of UN Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 2231&#x2014;which endorsed the JCPOA&#x2014;did include restrictions on the transfer of nuclear-capable UAVs. Those specific UN restrictions expired in October 2023. Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs): Iran currently possesses the Middle East's largest ballistic missile arsenal, but it does not have a confirmed, fully operational ICBM. The JCPOA did not prohibit Iran from developing or testing these rockets. While UNSCR 2231 called upon Iran to refrain from developing ballistic missiles designed to carry nuclear weapons, these clauses were not enforceable enough to halt the advancements in its military. These UN restrictions also expired in October 2023 The lack of limits on these weapons systems has remained a major point of international contention, leading to separate rounds of sanctions and military actions over Iran's regional missile proliferation and drone exports to Russia</description><pubDate>Tue, 26 May 2026 09:26:01 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Chinese Man Attacks Ladyboy in Pattaya Hotel</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395387-chinese-man-attacks-ladyboy-in-pattaya-hotel/?do=findComment&comment=20524065]]></link><description>I am just stating what happened , he did mange to book a ticket and board within 5 hours .    But yes, it wouldn't always be possible to do that if all the flights are full</description><pubDate>Tue, 26 May 2026 09:25:32 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Workers Die in Sisaket Police Flat Collapse</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395380-workers-die-in-sisaket-police-flat-collapse/?do=findComment&comment=20524064]]></link><description>Where else will the cops sleep?  Indeed, who the &#x201C;accommodation&#x201D; was intended for is largely irrelevant to the story.  The real issue is the complete lack of safety standards, perhaps made even worse by the low value placed on safety here, especially when it comes to migrant labourers.   Such tragedies exposes the lack of accountability. Company owners are almost never held responsible in these situations. A small payout is made for the loss of life, life is treated as cheap, and the owners continue saving fortunes by cutting corners that proper safety measures would inevitably cost.</description><pubDate>Tue, 26 May 2026 09:23:41 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Extortion In Thailand.</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395407-extortion-in-thailand/?do=findComment&comment=20524063]]></link><description>Not true at all.......................</description><pubDate>Tue, 26 May 2026 09:23:15 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Never have I objectified women: But...have =you=?</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395261-never-have-i-objectified-women-buthave-you/?do=findComment&comment=20524062]]></link><description>Boys and men think totally different regarding how they look at females, and how they act towards them, but it still depends on how their fathers treated their mothers.   Some men never grow up and look at women as conquests, and some look at them as equals and partners. What a person thinks and what they do are two totally different things, and if a man lets bad thoughts into his mind, he just might act on them, although that restraint should already be there.   Nothing wrong with wanting a woman, but how you go about it matters.   You are right noting the difference between a civilized gentleman and a scoundrel. I see it as immaturity how a boy thinks and acts regarding controlling their desire. Or again how they saw their dads growing up.</description><pubDate>Tue, 26 May 2026 09:22:29 +0000</pubDate></item></channel></rss>
