American Tourist Found Dead in Patong Hotel Room
 

Picture courtesy of The Thaiger

 

An American tourist has been found dead in his hotel room on Nanai Road in Patong, Phuket, prompting a police investigation into the cause of death. The 31-year-old man, who had travelled from California, was due to check out on the morning of 26 September when staff discovered his body.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1374393-californian-tourist-found-dead-in-patong-hotel-room/

Thailand Deploys AI Security to Attract Chinese Tourists

 

Pictures courtesy of The Thaiger.

 

Thailand has launched a nationwide security initiative using advanced technology to enhance tourist safety and draw two million Chinese visitors in the coming months. The move comes as the High Season approaches, with authorities aiming to restore Chinese arrivals to pre-pandemic levels while addressing growing safety concerns.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1374357-thailand-deploys-ai-security-to-attract-chinese-tourists/

 

Bangkok Launches ‘Smart Parking’ Scheme to Cut Traffic Chaos

 

Picture courtesy of The Nation

 

Bangkok has unveiled a citywide “Parking Sharing” initiative that uses digital technology to pool vacant spaces from both private companies and government agencies. The project, developed in partnership between the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) and the Digital Economy Promotion Agency (DEPA), is designed to ease traffic congestion and increase municipal revenue. Officials estimate the scheme could generate an additional 30 million baht annually.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1374402-bangkok-launches-‘smart-parking’-scheme-to-cut-traffic-chaos/

Samsen Road Sinkhole Repairs on Track for 8 October Completion

 

Pictures courtesy of Daily News

 

Repairs to the major sinkhole on Samsen Road in Bangkok are progressing as planned, with Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn expressing confidence that the road surface will be restored by 8 October. The incident, which began in the early hours of 24 September, created a 30 x 30 metre, 50-metre-deep hole near Vajira Hospital and the Samsen police station. Authorities say safety remains the top priority for both workers and nearby residents.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1374420-samsen-road-sinkhole-repairs-on-track-for-8-october-completion/

Samui Residents Protest Over Landmark Iron Relic Removal
 

Pictures courtesy of Khaosod 

 

Residents in Koh Samui have voiced anger after a private operator used heavy machinery to dig up a historic iron relic long regarded as a local landmark. The incident took place on 26 September 2025 at Ban Tai public beach in Mae Nam, where the relic, believed to be decades old, had been embedded in the sand for generations. Local people said the structure was part of the community’s heritage, attracting both residents and tourists.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1374373-samui-residents-protest-over-landmark-iron-relic-removal/

Parking Dispute Escalates into Truck Clash in Ayutthaya

 

Picture courtesy of Khaosod 

 

A parking row outside a restaurant in Phranakhon Si Ayutthaya district erupted into a violent confrontation and truck-ramming incident, leaving two vehicles damaged. The clash unfolded in full view of the public and a police officer, shocking onlookers along the Ayutthaya-Sena Road in tambon Ban Pom.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1374445-parking-dispute-escalates-into-truck-clash-in-ayutthaya/

 

American Man 70, Dies After Balcony Fall on Koh Phangan
 

Picture courtesy of Khaosod

 

A 70-year-old American man died on the morning of 28 September after falling from the second-floor balcony of his home on Koh Phangan, Surat Thani province. The incident took place in Moo 7, Koh Phangan Subdistrict, where rescue teams and police officers from Koh Phangan Police Station responded. The man, identified only as Mr. Morris, was discovered by his wife, Mrs. Mali, who immediately alerted authorities.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1374446-american-man-70-dies-after-balcony-fall-on-koh-phangan/

 

‘No one’ leads Thai voters’ choice for PM: Nida Poll
 

Pictures courtesy of The Nation

 

A new Nida Poll has revealed that most Thai voters currently see no suitable choice for prime minister, placing the “no one” option ahead of both opposition leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut and Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul. The survey, conducted between 19 and 24 September with 2,500 respondents nationwide, was released on the 28 September. It marks the third popularity rating poll carried out this year by the National Institute of Development Administration (Nida Poll).

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1374448-‘no-one’-leads-thai-voters’-choice-for-pm-nida-poll/

 

Pattaya Mayor Orders Probe Into Viral Beach Photos
 

Pictures courtesy of Pattaya City

 

Pattaya’s mayor, Poramet Ngampichet, has ordered an urgent investigation into images circulating on social media that allegedly show tourists engaging in intimate activity in the sea off Jomtien Beach. The images, widely shared online, prompted calls for immediate clarification.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1374450-pattaya-mayor-orders-probe-into-viral-beach-photos/

 

Three Tourists Rescued After Getting Lost on Doi Khun Tan

 

Pictures courtesy of MGR

 

Authorities in Lampang have successfully rescued three tourists who went missing while trekking on Doi Khun Tan in heavy rain. The group, consisting of a South Korean man, a Thai woman and a Thai child, became separated from their tour party late on 27 September. After nearly four hours of searching, officials located the tourists and escorted them to safety shortly before 22.00, to the relief of all involved.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1374451-three-tourists-rescued-after-getting-lost-on-doi-khun-tan/

 

Motorcyclist Dies Thrown off Rangsit Overpass
 

Pictures courtesy of MGR

 

A 42-year-old man was killed in the early hours of 28 September after his motorcycle struck a barrier on an overpass opposite Future Park Rangsit shopping centre in Pathum Thani. The impact threw him off the overpass, causing fatal injuries at the scene below. Police and rescue teams arrived quickly but confirmed he had died instantly from a broken neck.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1374453-motorcyclist-dies-thrown-off-rangsit-overpass/

 

Drunk Woman Arrested After Bottle Attack on Chinese Tourist
 

Picture courtesy of SiamChon

 

A Chinese tourist was injured in Pattaya after being struck with a bottle by a Thai woman in the early hours of 28 September 2025. The incident occurred at 01:05 on Chaloem Phrakiat 25 in South Pattaya, prompting a rapid response from rescue volunteers and Pattaya City Police. The victim, identified as 29-year-old Ms. Cui Jai, suffered a bleeding head wound and was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1374454-drunk-woman-arrested-after-bottle-attack-on-chinese-tourist/

 

Bangkaew Dog Attacks Owners, Three Injured in Nonthaburi
 

Pictures courtesy of Khaosod

 

A male Bangkaew dog, reported to be suffering from neurological illness attacked its owners and family members in Pak Kret, Nonthaburi, leaving three people injured on 28 September 2025. Rescue volunteers from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation responded to the scene after receiving reports of multiple victims bitten inside a two-storey home near Wat Bang Phut Nai. The injured were given first aid before being transferred to hospital.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1374456-bangkaew-dog-attacks-owners-three-injured-in-nonthaburi/

 

Pickup Truck Crashes, Topples 12 Power Poles in Si Racha
 

Pictures courtesy of ThaiRath

 

A pickup truck driver lost control, on 28 September 2025 at around 09:00 and collided with high-voltage power poles along Sukhaphiban 8 Road in Bo Win, Si Racha district, Chonburi province. The crash toppled twelve poles, caused widespread power outages, blocked traffic for hours and left several vehicles damaged. The driver sustained injuries and was hospitalised.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1374457-pickup-truck-crashes-topples-12-power-poles-in-sriracha/

 

Concrete Stair Collapse Kills Worker in Bangkok
 

Pictures courtesy of Khaosod 

 

An incident occurred,  at approximately 15:00 on 28 September 2025 at a construction site at a hotel in the Thian Ruammit area of Bangkok, when a concrete staircase collapsed, killing a male worker on the spot. Rescue teams from Ruamkatanyu Foundation responded quickly, bringing equipment to assist and coordinating with police from Huai Khwang Station to investigate.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1374458-concrete-stair-collapse-kills-worker-in-bangkok/

 

12 Chinese Arrested in Sa Kaeo Illegal Border Crossing Attempt
 

 

Picture courtesy of Naewna

 

Security forces arrested 17 people attempting to cross illegally into Cambodia on 27 September in Sa Kaeo province. The group included 12 Chinese nationals, two Myanmar citizens, one Thai man and two Cambodians suspected of leading the operation. They were intercepted near Ban Mai Pak Hong in Khlong Nam Sai, Aranyaprathet district, while trying to reach Poipet.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1374459-12-chinese-arrested-in-sa-kaeo-illegal-border-crossing-attempt/

 

Ex-Buddhist Office Director Extradited to Face Temple Fund Fraud
 

Pictures courtesy of Matichon

 

Prosecutors and police took custody of Mr. Nopparat Benjawattananon, on 28 September 2025, the former director of the Office of Buddhism, after his extradition from the United States. He is accused of corruption in the so-called “temple fund scandal” involving the misappropriation of state subsidies for the restoration and development of more than 65 temples. Mr. Nopparat is due to be formally charged at the Bangkok Central Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct on 29 September 2025.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1374460-ex-buddhist-office-director-extradited-to-face-temple-fund-fraud/

 

Confirmed: Thaksin Requests Royal Pardon After 1-Year Sentence
 

Thaksin Shinawatra. File photo courtesy of Thai Rath

 

Thaksin Shinawatra, Thailand's ex-Prime Minister, has formally requested a royal pardon following a Supreme Court decision sentencing him to one year in prison. The move comes after the Ministry of Justice confirmed the request, noting that he had the right as a convict to apply for this individual pardon. Earlier this year, Thaksin's sentence was reduced from eight to one year, making him eligible for the pardon application.

 

Full story:  https://aseannow.com/topic/1374468-confirmed-thaksin-requests-royal-pardon-after-1-year-sentence/

 

No Remorse: Russian Man Mocks Arrest After Thai Stunt

 

Composite courtesy of Daily News

 

A Russian man has stirred controversy after flaunting his disregard for Thai law with a reckless sexual stunt in Phuket. A video from 24th September showed 23-year-old Mr. Georgii, of Russian nationality, engaging in explicit activities with a Thai woman on the back of a pickup truck. The event took place openly on Chalerm Phra Kiat R.9 Road, drawing widespread attention and swift legal action.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1374484-no-remorse-russian-man-mocks-arrest-after-thai-stunt/

 

Tourist Confidence Falls as Foreigners Steer Clear of Thailand

 

File photo for reference only

 

The Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) reports a decline in its tourism confidence index for the third quarter of 2025. The index dropped to 66 out of 100, down from 70 in the previous quarter and 68 in the same period last year. This dip reflects a variety of challenges impacting the industry, including economic sluggishness, regional disputes, and currency issues.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1374519-tourist-confidence-falls-as-foreigners-steer-clear-of-thailand/

 

Car Crashes Into Chiang Mai Shop, Narrowly Misses Tourists

 

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod

 

A red MG sedan crashed into a popular Mala shop in Chang Phueak, Chiang Mai, narrowly avoiding two foreign tourists and other patrons. The incident, captured on surveillance footage on September 27, is under investigation by local police. Although the crash caused panic among diners, there were no immediate reports of serious injuries.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1374520-car-crashes-into-chiang-mai-shop-narrowly-misses-tourists/

Thai Vendor's Kindness to Tourists Spurs Online Debate

 

Photo via TikTok/ @lionqueenzyy

 

An ice cream vendor in Phuket sparked debate among Thai netizens after giving two foreign men a free ride on his cart. The incident was captured on a video shared by TikTok user @lionqueenzyy on September 25 with the caption, “Thai people are very kind.” The gesture led to mixed reactions online.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1374521-thai-vendors-kindness-to-tourists-spurs-online-debate/

 

Family Rescued After Getting Lost in Thai National Park

 

Photo via Facebook/ LPCM News : ข่าวลำปาง คัดสรรเพื่อคนลำปาง

 

A South Korean man, his Thai wife, and their 10-year-old son were rescued on Saturday, September 27, after being lost for over five hours in Doi Khun Tan National Park, Lampang, Thailand. Officials from Hang Chat District, along with national park rangers and volunteers, initiated the search, locating the family around 10 p.m. The family had been separated from a group of nearly 30 hikers and were found 5 to 7 kilometers from the Mae Tan Noi Reservoir, appearing exhausted but safe.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1374522-family-rescued-after-getting-lost-in-thai-national-park/

 

Historic Phuket Temple Hall Demolished for Safety Reasons

 

Picture courtesy of the Phuket News

 

Residents of Phuket's Thalang District are deeply upset after the sudden demolition of Wat Phra Nang Sang's ordination hall, known as the Ubosot. The ancient hall, central to religious activities, was renowned for its murals depicting local history. Though the demolition aimed to prevent danger due to severe structural damage, it has sparked concern over the loss of cultural heritage.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1374523-historic-phuket-temple-hall-demolished-for-safety-reasons/

 

Poachers Flee After Gaur Carcass Seized in Sanctuary Raid

 

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post

 

A forest patrol unit at Thung Yai Naresuan Wildlife Sanctuary has confiscated a gaur carcass and hunting weapons during a raid on a poachers' camp. The operation led to the escape of two suspects into the forest. This follows an initiative by authorities to curb illegal hunting activities in the area.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1374524-poachers-flee-after-gaur-carcass-seized-in-sanctuary-raid/

 

Chadchart Slams Mural Vandalism in Bangkok's Art District

 

Photo via Facebook/ Drama-addict

 

A mural by Spanish artist Carolina Adán Caro was vandalized in the Charoen Krung neighborhood of Bangkok, prompting an official condemnation from Governor Chadchart Sittipunt. The artwork, part of the Krung Thep Creative Street project supported by the European Union in Thailand and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), was defaced with graffiti tags. The incident has sparked outrage on social media, with calls for the culprits to be exposed.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1374527-chadchart-slams-mural-vandalism-in-bangkoks-art-district/

 

Thai-Japan Collaboration to Combat Cybercrime Intensifies

 

Police Lieutenant General Jirabhop Bhuridej (left) with Osaka Prefectural Police Chief Iwashita Tsuyoshi (right) | Photo via MGR Online

 

Thai police are enhancing collaborative efforts with Japan to tackle call centre scams and cybercrime. This development follows a recent high-level visit by Thai officials to Osaka. Police Lieutenant General Jirabhop Bhuridej of the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) led a delegation to Japan from September 16 to 21, aimed at sharing strategies on crime suppression and prevention.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1374529-thai-japan-collaboration-to-combat-cybercrime-intensifies/

 

Cabinet Scrutiny Looms in Upcoming Parliament Session

 

Sirikanya Tansakul, list MP and deputy leader of the People's Party | Image via Panyarut Nuntapusitanon/Facebook

 

The People's Party (PP) is gearing up for the upcoming debate on Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul's policy statement scheduled for September 29-30. Over 20 PP MPs are ready to raise urgent issues and challenge the qualifications of several Cabinet ministers. Though exact names aren't disclosed, the focus will be on ministers with legal or ethical concerns.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1374530-cabinet-scrutiny-looms-in-upcoming-parliament-session/

 

Actor Gagan Malik Resigns as Cambodian Tourism Ambassador

 

Photo via Facebook/ Gagan Malik

 

Indian actor Gagan Malik resigned as Cambodia's Tourism Goodwill Ambassador on September 27 amidst a border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia. This decision comes after he faced backlash for his involvement, stating, “Thailand is my second home.” Malik, best known for his role as Lord Buddha, took the role earlier this year to promote Cambodia's Buddhist sites but stepped down to respect his ties with Thailand.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1374531-actor-gagan-malik-resigns-as-cambodian-tourism-ambassador/

 

Thailand PM Outlines Plans for Tourism and Economic Recovery

 

Anutin delivered the Cabinet's policy statement to Parliament at the House of Representatives on September 29, 2025. | Photo via Royal Thai Government

 

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul presented his government's policy direction on September 29, prioritizing tourism recovery, economic reform, and regional diplomacy. The focus is on restoring tourist confidence, combating scams targeting visitors, and promoting domestic travel. Anutin also emphasized resolving tensions with Cambodia and improving Thailand's international image through proactive foreign policy.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1374532-thailand-pm-outlines-plans-for-tourism-and-economic-recovery/