Thailand Plans to Increase Air Travel Fees by October 2025

 

Photo courtesy of Khaosod

 

The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has announced plans to raise fees for international flights from 15 baht to 25 baht ($0.50-0.80) and introduce three new types of fees to bolster revenue for security costs. Additionally, Passenger Service Charges (PSC) are poised to rise by up to 100 baht starting in October 2025. This move, according to officials, still keeps Thailand's fees below those of neighboring countries.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373345-thailand-plans-to-increase-air-travel-fees-by-october-2025/

Thaksin Didn’t Buy Pizza for Guards, Says Corrections Dept

 

 

The Corrections Department has denied claims that former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra purchased pizzas for guards and inmates at Klong Prem Central Prison. Instead, they stated that the pizzas were provided by external parties during a traffic management operation near the prison. This refutes accusations made by Watchara Phetthong, a former Democrat Party MP, suggesting Thaksin used the gesture to gain influence within the prison.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373348-thaksin-didn’t-buy-pizza-for-guards-says-corrections-dept/

Thailand's SRT to Launch Refurbished Japanese Kiha Trains

 

Photo courtesy of Khaosod

 

The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) is set to launch refurbished Kiha 40/48 trains from Japan on the Don Mueang-Ayutthaya route this December. Key upgrades include a revamped air conditioning system and enhanced engineering standards to better suit Thailand's climate. This initiative aims to boost public transport and promote tourism in Ayutthaya.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373351-thailands-srt-to-launch-refurbished-japanese-kiha-trains/

Australian Man Survives Jump from Chon Buri Hotel Balcony

 

Photo courtesy of Amarin TV

 

An Australian man survived after slashing his face with a knife and jumping from a hotel balcony in Chon Buri, sustaining serious injuries. The dramatic incident occurred at a seven-storey hotel on September 17 in Nong Prue, Bang Lamung district. Police Lieutenant Sonthaya Khanthrap led a response team that quickly attended the scene, along with tourist police, rescue workers, and medics from Pattaya City Hospital.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373365-australian-man-survives-jump-from-chon-buri-hotel-balcony/

Insurgents Ambush Armoured Vehicle in Narathiwat, Four Hurt

 

Picture courtesy of Khaosod.

 

An armoured vehicle carrying soldiers was ambushed with a bomb and follow-up gunfire in Su-ngai Padi district, Narathiwat, leaving four personnel injured. The attack targeted an RIVA armoured vehicle from Ranger Company 4811 while it was on a route security patrol at Ban Bue Rang, Moo 3, To Deng Subdistrict, on the morning of 17 September 2025. Some troops were trapped inside the vehicle before rescue workers managed to extract them.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1373389-insurgents-ambush-armoured-vehicle-in-narathiwat-four-hurt/

 

Motorcyclist Stranded After GPS Blunder Near Pattaya
 

Picture courtesy of SiamNews

 

A 23-year-old man, riding near Pattaya was forced to abandon his motorcycle and walk more than 2 kilometres after GPS directions led him into a forest, resulting in a crash on a steep hillside. The incident occurred at 19:00 on the 15 September 2025, when the Sawang Boriboon Pattaya Rescue Foundation received a call about a stranded motorcyclist in Pong subdistrict, Bang Lamung, Chon Buri. Rescue teams used off-road vehicles to reach the scene on Khao Phai, with assistance from Huay Yai police.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1373391-motorcyclist-stranded-after-gps-blunder-near-pattaya/

 

Court Rejects Petition Against Anutin Over Road Use for Aircraft
 

Picture courtesy of Khaosod.

 

The Constitutional Court has unanimously rejected a petition alleging that Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul misused public roads as an airstrip for private business purposes. The decision, announced on 17 September 2025, effectively ends the case brought forward by petitioner Niyom Nopparat. The court ruled the complaint could not be accepted as legal procedures were not followed.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1373393-court-rejects-petition-against-anutin-over-road-use-for-aircraft/

 

Cyber Police Raid Uncovers Vape Sales Disguised as Perfume
 

Picture courtesy of Amarin

 

Cyber police have dismantled an illegal e-cigarette operation after raiding a condominium in Nonthaburi. Officers arrested a 28-year-old woman accused of selling disposable vapes disguised in packages labelled as perfume to avoid detection. The raid led to the seizure of 150 vape units valued at around 80,000 baht.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1373395-cyber-police-raid-uncovers-vape-sales-disguised-as-perfume/

 

Man with AK-47 surrenders after 8-hour police standoff
 

Picture courtesy of Daily News

 

A tense armed standoff lasting eight hours ended peacefully in Sisaket province after a man wielding an AK-47 rifle threatened to fire on police attempting to arrest him. The incident unfolded on 17 September in Non Khun district, when officers surrounded the home of 36-year-old Veerasak, wanted on drugs and weapons charges. He eventually surrendered without shots being fired.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1373397-man-with-ak-47-surrenders-after-8-hour-police-standoff/

 

12-Year-Old Boy Injured After Jumping From School Building
 

Picture courtesy of Khaosod

 

A 12-year-old boy sustained multiple injuries after jumping from a three-storey school building in Sukhothai. The incident occurred at around 21:10 on 16 September 2025 in Ban Suan sub-district, Mueang district. Rescue teams from Ruamkatanyu Foundation Sukhothai arrived promptly to provide first aid and transport the boy to Sukhothai Hospital.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1373399-12-year-old-boy-injured-after-jumping-from-school-building/

 

Forest Forager Found Dead After Flash Flood in Mae Hong Son
 

Picture courtesy of Khaosod

 

A man who went to collect forest products in Mae Hong Son went missing for two days before his body was found lodged between rocks in a stream after being swept away by flash flooding. The incident occurred near Huai Wai, approximately 3 kilometres from the village, following sudden heavy rainfall on 15 September 2025. His disappearance prompted a large-scale search by villagers and authorities.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1373402-forest-forager-found-dead-after-flash-flood-in-mae-hong-son/

 

Chinese Legal Delegation Visits Bangkok Special Police Unit

 

Picture courtesy of Khaosod

 

A senior Chinese legal delegation has visited Bangkok’s Special Operations Police Division 191 to observe its work and training demonstrations. The visit took place on 16 September, when Thai police officials welcomed Mr Tan Xuxiang, a senior figure from Beijing’s legal and political affairs sector. The event underscored cooperation between Thai authorities and China in law enforcement and security matters.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1373404-chinese-legal-delegation-visits-bangkok-special-police-unit/

 

Authorities Fire Tear Gas at Cambodians Dismantling Border Fence

 

Picture courtesy of TNR

 

Police used tear gas and rubber bullets on Cambodian civilians who attempted to tear down a border fence in Sa Kaeo province on 17 September 2025. The incident occurred when about 200 Cambodians, carrying sticks, began dismantling barbed wire along the frontier. Despite police warnings and negotiations, the group pressed ahead, prompting officers to escalate their response.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1373405-authorities-fire-tear-gas-at-cambodians-dismantling-border-fence/

 

Chiang Mai Teen Gang Attack Leaves Girl’s Hand Severed
 

Picture courtesy of Khaosod

 

A violent gang attack in Chiang Mai left three people seriously injured in the early hours of 17 September 2025. The assault took place at around 00:20, in front of a convenience store next to a self-service laundry on the old San Kamphaeng Road, between Nong Prateep and Buak Krok Junction in Mueang district. Emergency teams from Kusolsongkroh Chiang Mai and Chiang Mai Special Rescue responded quickly and provided urgent medical care.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1373407-chiang-mai-teen-gang-attack-leaves-girl’s-hand-severed/

 

Ice Cream Seller Shot After Slingshotting Dogs in Chiang Mai
 

Picture courtesy of Khaosod

 

An ice cream vendor was left critically injured after being shot twice during a confrontation in Chiang Mai’s Doi Saket district. The incident occurred in front of Wat Fai Thong on Ban Fai Thong Road, Moo 13, San Pu Loei, on 16 September 2025. Rescue workers from Sawang Samret 603 provided initial assistance before transferring the victim to Doi Saket Hospital.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1373408-ice-cream-seller-shot-after-slingshotting-dogs-in-chiang-mai/

 

Phuket Police Arrest Russian for Illegal Tour Guiding
 

Picture courtesy of SiamRath 

 

Phuket marine police have arrested a 34-year-old Russian national for working illegally as a tour guide at a pier in Rassada, Mueang district. The suspect, identified only as Anton, was detained on 17 September 2025 while leading tourists to vehicles after they disembarked from a boat returning from Phi Phi Island. Officers found he had no valid work permit or licence to operate as a guide.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1373409-phuket-police-arrest-russian-for-illegal-tour-guiding/

 

Drinking After Hours in Pubs to Cost Up to 10,000 Baht Fine

 

File photo for reference only

 

From 8 November, patrons drinking in pubs after official closing hours will face fines of up to 10,000 Thai baht. This enforcement is part of new amendments to the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act, announced by the Department of Provincial Administration. The changes target those continuing to consume alcohol in venues after legal hours.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373421-drinking-after-hours-in-pubs-to-cost-up-to-10000-baht-fine/

 

Thailand Boosts Tourism by Training Staff for Muslim Visitors

 

File photo courtesy of Facebook/GT Tour Thailand

 

Thailand is stepping up efforts to attract more Muslim tourists by launching a comprehensive training programme for tour operators. This initiative is designed to enhance the country's appeal as a prime global destination for Muslim tourists. With Muslim tourists identified as a fast-growing sector, the move aims to tap into this burgeoning market effectively.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373423-thailand-boosts-tourism-by-training-staff-for-muslim-visitors/

 

Thaksin to meet psychologist for routine mental health check-up

 

Pictures courtesy of Daily News

 

Thaksin Shinawatra is set to meet a psychologist for a routine mental health check-up, coinciding with a highly anticipated second family visit at Klong Prem Central Prison at 10 AM. This comes amid media focus on his daily life, which reportedly includes early rising, early bedtime, enjoying boiled eggs for breakfast, reading, watching TV, and arm-swinging exercises. Thaksin's family has deposited 15,000 baht into his prison account for minor purchases, adhering to regulations.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373434-thaksin-to-meet-psychologist-for-routine-mental-health-check-up/

 

Thaksin's Health Declines: Hypertension, Hair Loss, Insomnia

 

File photo for reference only

 

Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is experiencing health issues, including high blood pressure, sleep disturbances, and hair loss, as reported by his daughter Paetongtarn after a family visit Thursday morning to Klong Prem Central Prison. The visit, which included Paetongtarn, her sister Pintongta, and their husbands, was their second to the prison but was cut short due to Thaksin's condition.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373469-thaksins-health-declines-hypertension-hair-loss-insomnia/

 

New Thai Cabinet Under Anutin: Key Leaders and Coalition Plans

 

Photo courtesy of Thai Newsroom

 

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul's new cabinet, featuring both fresh faces and familiar allies, is set to be endorsed by His Majesty the King shortly. Anutin will assume triple roles—as prime minister, interior minister, and leader of the Bhumjaithai party—leading a cabinet of 36 members for a proposed four-month term. These actions are in line with Anutin's promise to dissolve the House of Representatives and push for amendments to the 2017 constitution, followed by a general election.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373471-new-thai-cabinet-under-anutin-key-leaders-and-coalition-plans/

 

US Rate Cut Impact: Thai Baht May Strengthen Rapidly

 

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Vorapak Tanyawong, nominated for Thailand's finance minister, expressed concerns about the potential rapid appreciation of the baht following the US Federal Reserve's decision to cut its interest rate by 0.25%. This development could impact Thailand's export and tourism sectors if the baht strengthens too rapidly. As investors might turn to Southeast Asian markets, the Thai bond and investment sectors could see increased foreign investment.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373473-us-rate-cut-impact-thai-baht-may-strengthen-rapidly/

 

Thailand Falls in Global Innovation Index 2025

 

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Thailand's position on the Global Innovation Index (GII) 2025 has dropped to 45th out of 139 economies, slipping from its 41st place last year. The decline is attributed to changes in the index's methodology, better performance by competing economies, and lower scores in certain sub-indices.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373474-thailand-falls-in-global-innovation-index-2025/

 

Warning Issued as Venomous Jellyfish Wash Ashore at Patong

 

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod

 

Lifeguards at Patong Beach in Phuket have cautioned tourists after spotting the venomous Portuguese man o’ war jellyfish along the shore. They advised beachgoers to avoid contact with the creatures and to seek immediate help if stung. This warning is part of a safety measure during the southwest monsoon when such marine hazards are more common.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373475-warning-issued-as-venomous-jellyfish-wash-ashore-at-patong/

 

 French Tourist Drowns at Patong Beach Despite Safety Warnings

 

Photo courtesy of The Phuket News

 

A French tourist, Laurent Simon, drowned at Patong Beach early on September 18 after being pulled out to sea by strong currents during a late-night swim. Simon, along with family members, entered the water despite red flags warning of dangerous conditions. His sister was quickly swept away, prompting Simon and his brother-in-law, Jose Cubellier, to attempt a rescue.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373476-tourist-drowns-at-patong-beach-despite-safety-warnings/

 

Online Complaints Surge as Digital Threats Grow in 2025

 

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post

 

The Electronic Transactions Development Agency (Etda) has reported a significant increase in online complaints in the first eight months of 2025, with over 27,000 cases filed—a 20.1% rise compared to the previous year. This increase highlights rising public concerns over digital threats, particularly as online platforms become more vulnerable to technological exploits such as AI-generated deepfakes. Chaichana Mitrpant, Etda’s executive director, noted that while complaint numbers had decreased in previous years, the current surge indicates a change in the nature of online scams.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373479-online-complaints-surge-as-digital-threats-grow-in-2025/

 

Villagers Demand Action After Animal Abuse in Thailand

 

Stock image of a dog on a Thai beach for illustration courtesy of Jordan Barr via Flickr

 

Villagers in Lopburi, Thailand, are demanding swift intervention after a 20-year-old man was accused of repeatedly abusing animals. The alarm was raised following a video's circulation, which showed the man assaulting a female dog in Wang Khon Khwang, Khok Samrong district. The footage, initially shared privately, has sparked widespread concern within the community.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373480-villagers-demand-action-after-animal-abuse-in-thailand/

 

Delayed Ambulance Response Leads to Man's Death in Trang

 

Screenshot from เรื่องเล่าเช้านี้ video on X

 

A 60-year-old man, Charoen, collapsed near a hospital in Trang, Thailand, and died after waiting 40 minutes for an ambulance that never arrived. This incident has prompted questions about the country's emergency response system. Despite repeated calls to emergency hotlines, the necessary help was delayed, leading to Charoen's death from an acute heart attack.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373482-delayed-ambulance-response-leads-to-mans-death-in-trang/

 

Thai-Cambodian Borders Shut: PM Anutin Confirms Unrest

 

File photo for reference only

 

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has confirmed that no border checkpoints between Thailand and Cambodia are currently open. This announcement comes after recent clashes in Sa Kaeo province, where crowd-control police confronted Cambodian nationals dismantling barbed-wire barriers. Anutin emphasized that the military is now tasked with managing the situation and handling security concerns at the border.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373484-thai-cambodian-borders-shut-pm-anutin-confirms-unrest/

 

Rabies Alert: Nong Chok District Under Strict Controls

 

Photo courtesy of LINE Today

 

Parts of Bangkok’s Nong Chok district have been designated as rabies-infectious zones after a dog tested positive for the disease. This declaration, in effect until October 16, imposes strict restrictions on the movement of animals in and out of the area without veterinarian approval. The measure aims to curb the spread of rabies, protecting both residents and their pets.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373485-rabies-alert-nong-chok-district-under-strict-controls/