Thailand Sees 34% Drop in Chinese Tourists, Forcing Revised Outlook
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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Thursday 31 July 2025
Government Unveils Three-Phase Plan to Tackle Illegal Cigarette Crisis Picture courtesy of Daily News The government has launched a comprehensive three-phase crackdown on illegal cigarettes, aiming to curb a crisis that has caused the country to lose more than 25 billion baht annually in tax revenue. Authorities say the surge in illicit cigarette consumption is a direct consequence of recent enforcement campaigns against e-cigarettes. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1368310-government-unveils-three-phase-plan-to-tackle-illegal-cigarette-crisis/ -
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Report Australia’s Teen Screen Lockdown: YouTube Joins Social Media Ban
Picture courtesy of The Keyword In a groundbreaking move, Australia has included YouTube in its upcoming ban on social media access for under-16s, set to commence this December. The restriction, which initially targeted platforms like TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, X, and Snapchat, will now also prevent teenagers from holding YouTube accounts. Although the restriction allows viewing, it no longer allows uploading content or interacting. Google, YouTube’s parent company, had hoped for an exemption, arguing the platform provides value to young Australians, claiming it’s not true social media. However, Australia’s eSafety Commissioner, Julie Inman Grant, highlighted the platform as a major source of harmful content for ages 10 to 15, prompting its inclusion. Amid global interest, countries like Norway are considering similar actions, with the UK contemplating involvement. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese assured parents that the ban, while not a complete solution, is a significant step towards combating social harm. The move has sparked debates, with a spokesperson from YouTube expressing disappointment and hinting at continued discussions with the government. Reports even emerged of potential legal action threatened by Google to contest the ban. Federal Communications Minister Anika Wells emphasised the need to protect youngsters from predatory algorithms. Despite acknowledging the usefulness of social media, she insisted this action is necessary for protecting children amidst a digital landscape comparable to "swimming in an ocean with sharks." Exemptions will apply to apps related to gaming, messaging, education, and health, which are considered less harmful. Tech companies failing to adhere to these new rules could face hefty penalties, up to A$50 million (around 1.18 billion Thai Baht), should they fail to restrict youth accounts as mandated, reported BBC. The new rules aim to enforce rigorous age verification and compliance strategies, ensure existing accounts are shut down, and prevent new creations. Detailed plans on the ban’s implementation are expected to be formally introduced to federal parliament imminently. Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-07-30 -
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UK Michele Dougherty Named First Female UK Astronomer Royal
Reference picture courtesy of Wikipedia In a groundbreaking appointment, Professor Michele Dougherty has become the first woman to hold the title of Astronomer Royal in the UK. Her journey to the stars began with a homemade telescope, which ignited her passion for the cosmos. Now she advises King Charles III on celestial matters and aims to inspire girls and women to pursue scientific careers. Prof Dougherty's journey is remarkable, especially as she did not study science in secondary school in South Africa. Her love for mathematics led her to a science degree at university, where she excelled despite initial challenges. Her enthusiasm has taken her to the forefront of space exploration, as part of a team investigating Jupiter's icy moons for potential life. In her new role, Prof Dougherty wants to captivate the public with the wonders of space and highlight its significance to the UK economy. Her commitment to public engagement stands out as she seeks to make astronomy relatable and exciting for all. She sees her role not just as a personal achievement but as a beacon for aspiring female astronomers. One of the many highlights of her career is her work with the European Space Agency on the mission to Jupiter’s moons. Reflecting on her journey, she marvels at how a childhood fascination has led to real contributions to space exploration. Her story is a testament to resilience and the pursuit of dreams, no matter the obstacles. Prof Dougherty's appointment comes at a time when the representation of women in science is still growing. During her tenure at Imperial College, she influenced a rise in female physics undergraduates, showcasing her impact not just academically but also as a role model. She hopes her achievements will inspire others to realise their potential in fields traditionally dominated by men. As Astronomer Royal, Prof Dougherty continues to push the boundaries of space science while advocating for broader inclusivity. Her journey is inspiring not only for aspiring scientists but anyone striving to achieve their dreams. Her message is clear: opportunities exist for those willing to reach for the stars. PProfessor Dougherty is determined to maximise the impact of her historic role by using it as a platform to engage and educate the public. Her success is a significant step forward for women in science and an inspiration for future generations. Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-07-31 -
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Ukraine Russia’s Deadly Strikes Rock Ukraine Amidst Trump Ultimatum
Picture courtesy of Reuters via BBC Overnight air strikes by Russia have tragically claimed at least 25 lives in Ukraine, targeting a prison and a hospital, officials report. The Bilenke penitentiary in Zaporizhzhia faced the deadliest blow, resulting in 16 inmates dead and over 50 wounded. In Kharkiv, a strike killed five people waiting for aid, while a hospital hit in Dnipropetrovsk claimed three lives, including a pregnant woman. President Donald Trump has reinforced a firm ultimatum, setting 8 August as the deadline for Russia to cease hostilities or encounter severe sanctions. This announcement followed a previous 50-day deadline aimed at pressuring President Vladimir Putin. President Zelensky of Ukraine has called for intensified sanctions, insisting on forcing Russia to cease its assaults and seek peace. Ukraine's Justice Ministry confirmed that four glide bombs devastated critical areas of the Bilenke prison, causing immense casualties and leaving 44 people hospitalised. This attack is seen as a grave violation of humanitarian law, where even detainees retain their right to life and protection. Russia’s continuous targeting of the contested Zaporizhzhia region has exacerbated tensions, with Moscow claiming annexation of several south-eastern regions despite lack of full control. In another lethal strike, Russia’s rockets killed five people in Novoplatonivka, Kharkiv, as they queued for humanitarian aid. Russian rockets struck a hospital in Kamianske in Dnipropetrovsk, tragically killing three people, including a 23-year-old pregnant woman. Zelensky expressed his condemnation for the killings and lamented the missed opportunity to establish a ceasefire, reported BBC. Trump's earlier deadline in July aimed at catalysing a truce with Kyiv remains unheeded, as Russia vehemently advances its military agenda. Moscow claims territorial gains in the Dnipropetrovsk region, though these assertions are disputed by Ukraine. As violence escalates, reports from Russia claim Ukraine launched drone attacks in Rostov, killing an individual in Salsk and causing infrastructure damage. Another casualty was reported near the border in Belgorod, highlighting the dire and expanding scope of the conflict. This wave of aggression underscores the volatile situation, with international pressures mounting on Russia amidst continuous cross-border hostilities. Both sides are entrenched in a fierce struggle, with diplomatic solutions appearing increasingly elusive. Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-07-31 -
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USA Trump Claims Epstein ‘Stole’ Mar-a-Lago Staff, Including Giuffre
NBC video screenshot President Donald Trump has made explosive claims that the late Jeffrey Epstein “stole” employees from his Mar-a-Lago estate in a move that may refocus attention on their contentious relationship. Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Trump revealed that Epstein took staff members, including Virginia Giuffre, who later became a central figure in Epstein’s abuse scandal. Trump was asked about a falling-out with Epstein over the alleged "pilfering" of employees. "He took people who worked for me. And I told him, 'Don’t do it anymore,' and he did it," the president stated, reinforcing that Epstein had been banned from Mar-a-Lago. When questioned further, Trump acknowledged some of the staff taken included young women working in the spa. When asked for details about Giuffre, Trump confirmed her association with Mar-a-Lago and her subsequent involvement with Epstein. “I think she worked at the spa,” he asserted, adding, “She never had complaints about us.” Giuffre committed suicide in April, and Ghislaine Maxwell, his associate, reportedly arranged her initial contact with Epstein. Steven Cheung, the White House communications director, clarified last week that Trump expelled Epstein from Mar-a-Lago for inappropriate behaviour. Epstein died in a New York jail in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. The past few weeks have seen mounting pressure on Trump to disclose further Epstein-related files, a demand echoed even by some of his staunchest supporters. Trump has attempted to downplay the issue, branding the circulating stories as “boring.” The president’s remarks reopen questions about his historical interactions with Epstein and could intensify calls for transparency. The implications of the revelations remain to be fully understood, but they underscore the enduring complexities surrounding the Epstein saga. Adapted by ASEAN Now from NBC News 2025-07-31 -
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Crime Government Unveils Three-Phase Plan to Tackle Illegal Cigarette Crisis
Picture courtesy of Daily News The government has launched a comprehensive three-phase crackdown on illegal cigarettes, aiming to curb a crisis that has caused the country to lose more than 25 billion baht annually in tax revenue. Authorities say the surge in illicit cigarette consumption is a direct consequence of recent enforcement campaigns against e-cigarettes. With vaping products becoming harder to access due to tighter regulations, many users have reverted to smoking traditional cigarettes. However, the high cost of legal tobacco products has pushed smokers towards contraband alternatives, which are significantly cheaper and widely available online. These illegal products often mirror the flavour and branding of legal cigarettes, but are laced with higher levels of heavy metals and carcinogens, posing serious health risks. A recent survey revealed that consumption of illegal cigarettes had risen from 25% to 28% in just a few months. The most affected provinces include Bangkok, Pathum Thani, Nonthaburi, Samut Prakan, Songkhla, Phatthalung, Phuket, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Nakhon Ratchasima, and Ubon Ratchathani. Beyond economic and health concerns, the trade in illicit cigarettes is increasingly linked to transnational crime. Authorities have discovered that smuggling networks often use the same routes to traffic narcotics and human cargo, particularly through border regions where surveillance is more difficult. These criminal networks are believed to possess a deep understanding of both consumer demand and the logistics of black-market distribution. Government spokesperson Jirayu Huangsub confirmed that the administration will act decisively, implementing an integrated anti-smuggling strategy. The three-phase plan includes: 1. Immediate Measures: Targeting border zones to disrupt smuggling routes via land and sea. The Ministry of Finance’s Customs Department and Marine Police will play central roles under a special operations framework. 2. Short-Term Actions: Cracking down on retailers, including online vendors, with the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society tasked with shutting down illegal websites, social media pages and URLs selling contraband tobacco. The Royal Thai Police will enhance investigations and tighten enforcement. 3. Long-Term Strategy: A public awareness campaign to educate citizens about the health and economic risks of illegal cigarettes, coupled with increased penalties for offenders. The goal is to reduce consumer demand, dismantle black-market operations and restore lawful trade. Police General Prachuap Wongsuk, Deputy National Police Chief, noted that many illicit cigarettes enter the country by sea, concealed within legal shipments. He has instructed the Marine Police and coastal task forces to intensify inspections and collaborate with anti-narcotics and anti-human trafficking units. The crackdown will be executed holistically, from “upstream” interception at borders, to “midstream” monitoring of transport networks and “downstream” enforcement targeting sellers and online platforms. Officials believe this approach will not only recover lost tax revenue but also lessen the burden on public health services and reduce smoking-related illnesses in the long term. Adapted by Asean Now from Daily News 2025-07-31
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