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Thai Air Force Helicopter Makes Emergency Landing at Roi Et School Pictures courtesy of โรงเรียนบ้านคำพอุง ประชาราษฎร์บำรุง Facebook Children at Ban Kham Pha-Ung School in Roi Et had an unforgettable day when a Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) helicopter made an unexpected landing on their school field. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365795-thai-air-force-helicopter-makes-emergency-landing-at-roi-et-school/

Pictures courtesy of โรงเรียนบ้านคำพอุง ประชาราษฎร์บำรุง Facebook Children at Ban Kham Pha-Ung School in Roi Et had an unforgettable day when a Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) helicopter made an unexpected landing on their school field. The chopper, travelling from Lopburi to Udon Thani, was forced to land due to severe weather conditions, including heavy rain and strong winds. The event unfolded on Thursday afternoon, July 3, causing excitement and awe among students and staff. Footage of the helicopter’s descent, accompanied by the children’s thrilled screams, quickly spread online. The landing, executed with precision, became a local spectacle as villagers and parents rushed to the scene, braving the rain to capture photos of the rare occurrence. The pilots were met with the community's signature warmth and were honoured with a bai sri su kwan ceremony to bless and thank them for their safe handling of the situation. Teachers seized the opportunity as a teachable moment, allowing the children to interact with the crew and learn about aviation. The pilots engaged with the students, taking pictures and answering their questions, ensuring everyone felt safe and informed about the unexpected event. Remarkably, there were no injuries, and the helicopter was unharmed, allowing the crew to eventually continue their journey once the weather improved. This abrupt yet thrilling event provided the schoolchildren with a memorable experience. The episode was summed up perfectly by a young student’s comment: “I never thought I’d see a real helicopter land in front of me!” With smiles all around, it’s a day the school won’t soon forget. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-07-05

Thailand Denies Imminent Artefact Return to Cambodia Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand's suspended PM, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, dismisses claims of imminent artefact return to Cambodia, pledging legal action and stressing sovereignty. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365794-thailand-denies-imminent-artefact-return-to-cambodia/

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand's suspended PM, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, dismisses claims of imminent artefact return to Cambodia, pledging legal action and stressing sovereignty. Suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has vehemently denied claims that Thailand is poised to return 20 ancient artefacts to Cambodia. Speaking in her role as the new culture minister, Paetongtarn clarified that 23 artefacts were indeed returned to Cambodia back in 2015 after verifying their origins. Although the Cabinet has given a nod in principle for returning another 20 artefacts by 2024, she confirmed that these remain in Thailand due to budget constraints of the Fine Arts Department and ongoing border tensions making the issue less pressing. Paetongtarn highlighted that funding challenges mean the artefact return cannot be prioritised by the central budget. "This is not considered an urgent matter," she stated, adding that the proposal requires resubmission for ministry-level budgeting and Cabinet discussion. Given the sensitive nature of Thai-Cambodian relations, further review is recommended by the Culture Ministry. Taking a firm stance, Paetongtarn warned against the spread of false information, potentially leading to legal repercussions. She underscored Thailand's sovereignty over the Ta Muen Thom temple complex in Surin, safeguarded under the 1961 Ancient Monuments Act. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is also actively working to maintain Thai sovereignty in other contentious areas along the Cambodian border. As culture minister, Paetongtarn sees potential in boosting Thailand's global image through soft power initiatives. She pledged support for the nation’s creative industries, aiming to extend cash rebates to Thai productions, previously exclusive to foreign filmmakers. "I want to see Thai films go further," she remarked, emphasising how they can promote Thai products and culture internationally. Outlining her vision, Paetongtarn identified four pivotal soft power industries: film, food, Muay Thai, and wellness. She believes these sectors possess the capability to quickly elevate Thailand's economic prospects, tourism, and job market. Emphasising collaboration, she affirmed readiness to support joint ventures between the Culture Ministry and both public and private sectors. Despite facing political obstacles, Paetongtarn remains committed to leveraging soft power for cultural and economic growth. "I have long advocated for soft power as a development strategy," she expressed, ensuring her dedication in spite of her suspension. The 38-year-old Pheu Thai leader’s premiership was suspended as of 1 July by the Constitutional Court, pending resolution of ethical misconduct and power abuse allegations. Social activist Srisuwan Janya has petitioned for an investigation into her and Deputy Prime Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit's actions, which might violate the suspension order following a recent Cabinet reshuffle. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-07-05

Judicial Suspension Threatens Shinawatra-Linked Prime Ministers Left to right: Samak Sundaravej, Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha, Srettha Thavisin, and Paetongtarn Shinawatra. | Picture courtesy of THai PBS World ANALYSIS The Constitutional Court has struck again, suspending Paetongtarn Shinawatra, marking yet another dramatic intervention in Thai politics. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365790-judicial-suspension-threatens-shinawatra-linked-prime-ministers/

Left to right: Samak Sundaravej, Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha, Srettha Thavisin, and Paetongtarn Shinawatra. | Picture courtesy of THai PBS World ANALYSIS The Constitutional Court has struck again, suspending Paetongtarn Shinawatra, marking yet another dramatic intervention in Thai politics. This comes amidst allegations of breaching ministerial ethics, as a leaked phone call with Cambodia’s former PM Hun Sen caused a stir. This suspension resonates with past high-profile cases involving former PMs under the Shinawatra name. In 2022, General Prayut Chan-o-cha faced a similar suspension over term limits but returned to power. On the other hand, Srettha Thavisin, Paetongtarn's predecessor, was initially allowed to continue until ethical breaches led to his removal. These instances underscore the judiciary's powerful influence over even the most electorally successful governments. Common themes emerge as these legal battles underscore the repeated acceptance of petitions against prime ministers, often spearheaded by senators or opposition MPs. Paetongtarn's case draws attention with her candid phone call calling Hun Sen “uncle” while discussing border tensions, viewed by critics as undermining national sovereignty. The swift court response saw a unanimous decision to accept the case and a 7:2 vote to suspend her. If found guilty, Paetongtarn will join three other Shinawatra-linked leaders ousted since 1997. Notably, her father, Thaksin Shinawatra, survived a similar court ordeal in 2001 over concealed assets, edging out an 8:7 ruling victory. Meanwhile, Samak Sundaravej was ousted in 2008 over a conflict of interest linked to a TV cooking show salary. Yingluck Shinawatra faced a politically charged dismissal in 2014, accused of constitutional breaches during a bureaucratic reshuffle. General Prayut survived multiple court cases in 2022, narrowly avoiding removal for exceeding term limits. Thavisin's removal stemmed from his appointment of a former convict, a move that reflected stringent ethical expectations. This chain of suspensions highlights the ongoing tension between Thailand's judiciary and its political leaders, with implications that likely extend beyond the Shinawatra family. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai PBS World 2025-07-05

Thaksin Hearing in ‘14th Floor’ Case Postponed, Media Gag Ordered Picture courtesy of Thai Rath BANGKOK - The Supreme Court has postponed Thaksin Shinawatra's 14th-floor case proceedings to 8th July, with strict orders against media disclosure of testimony. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365783-thaksin-hearing-in-‘14th-floor’-case-postponed-media-gag-ordered/

Picture courtesy of Thai Rath BANGKOK - The Supreme Court has postponed Thaksin Shinawatra's 14th-floor case proceedings to 8th July, with strict orders against media disclosure of testimony. On 4th July, the Supreme Court's Criminal Division for Political Office Holders rescheduled the hearing on the enforcement of Thaksin Shinawatra's sentences from cases in 2008 and 2009. This session aims to verify if the enforcement aligns with previous rulings. Earlier, on 13th June, authorities examined testimony regarding prisoner transfers for outside medical care. Yesterday’s session involved five witnesses from the Department of Corrections' medical team. Future sessions are scheduled for the 18th and 25th of July, featuring top police hospital doctors. Concerns over prior public disclosures of court testimonies have led to a media blackout on sharing details that might influence outcomes or public perception. This ban covers witness statements and health information, considered personal and sensitive. The hearing will resume with testimonies from correctional officers on 8th July, and further witness accounts will be taken on 15th July. Thaksin's lawyer, Winyat Chartmontree, supports this discretion to prevent confusion given the case's ongoing nature. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Rath 2025-07-05

Gibbons Smuggled from Bangkok Seized at India's Chennai Airport Picture of Chennai Airport courtesy of The Hindu via The Thaiger Chennai Airport has emerged as a hotspot in a baffling wildlife trafficking plot, as customs officers apprehended a passenger attempting to smuggle two endangered gibbons from Bangkok. This marks the second attempt in just two weeks, raising alarms over a possible surge in black market demand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365767-gibbons-smuggled-from-bangkok-seized-at-indias-chennai-airport/

Picture of Chennai Airport courtesy of The Hindu via The Thaiger Chennai Airport has emerged as a hotspot in a baffling wildlife trafficking plot, as customs officers apprehended a passenger attempting to smuggle two endangered gibbons from Bangkok. This marks the second attempt in just two weeks, raising alarms over a possible surge in black market demand. The passenger landed on a Thai Airways flight early on Tuesday, 1st July. Customs officials, suspicious of his movements, decided to inspect his luggage. A shocking discovery awaited them: two live gibbons concealed in pet carriers, hidden under layers of chocolates and packaged foods. "In one carrier, we found an Agile Gibbon, and in another, an Eastern Grey Gibbon," revealed a customs officer. "Despite the careful concealment, our profiling systems proved effective in uncovering them." These species are highly coveted in the illegal exotic pet market, prompting immediate action from India’s wildlife bureau, which stepped in to confirm their identity and ensure their safety. The Agile Gibbon, a victim of habitat loss and poaching, holds an endangered status on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. The Eastern Grey Gibbon faces similar threats, making their capture especially concerning for conservationists. The suspect, believed to be a minor player in a sophisticated international smuggling ring, is now in judicial custody. Investigators are diligently working to unearth the bigger network orchestrating these crimes. "This repeated targeting of the same gibbon species in a short span hints at a burgeoning, specialised demand," a customs spokesperson stated. India has seen a spike in wildlife trafficking cases, with stringent measures being put in place at major airports to combat this illicit trade. Such trafficking not only endangers species but also breaches international conventions aimed at protecting wildlife. As authorities tighten their nets around the perpetrators, the case underscores a dire need for global cooperation to curb wildlife trafficking. Legal frameworks and enforcement must be strengthened to deter such exploits, which pose a grave threat to biodiversity. The recent arrest in Chennai highlights a larger, more disturbing trend in the illegal wildlife trade. While this operation was foiled, experts caution that the underworld market for exotic pets remains robust. Immigration and customs officials are keen on sending a strong message to deter future attempts. Meanwhile, both the Agile Gibbon and the Eastern Grey Gibbon wait in the care of wildlife authorities, a grim testament to the ongoing battle against wildlife crime. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-07-05

Chaos Looms as US Eyes AI Chip Export Curbs to Thailand, Malaysia File photo courtesy of Wikipedia The US government is reportedly planning to impose restrictions on AI chip exports from companies like Nvidia to Malaysia and Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365764-chaos-looms-as-us-eyes-ai-chip-export-curbs-to-thailand-malaysia/

File photo courtesy of Wikipedia The US government is reportedly planning to impose restrictions on AI chip exports from companies like Nvidia to Malaysia and Thailand. This move, driven by concerns over semiconductor smuggling into China, aims to prevent China from acquiring these advanced components through intermediaries in Southeast Asia. According to sources, a draft rule from the US Commerce Department seeks to add Malaysia and Thailand to the list of countries with imposed controls. These new restrictions are to supplement existing measures targeting China and over 40 other nations. The regulations are part of an ongoing effort to tackle smuggling and increase market transparency. The proposed rule follows the Trump administration's aim to refine the AI diffusion strategy put in place during President Joe Biden's term. Although not comprehensive, the draft attempts to address security conditions related to US chips used in international data centres. The focus remains sharp on Malaysia and Thailand as the US evaluates its next steps for broader enforcement. Despite the ongoing situation, the final framework is yet to be confirmed, with potential adjustments anticipated. The US Commerce Department and relevant stakeholders, including Nvidia, have remained largely mum on the specifics of the plan. Malaysian and Thai officials have expressed a desire for clear policies to guide the tech sector amidst these changes. The new export controls are likely to be accompanied by temporary exemptions for companies with significant operations in Malaysia and Thailand. This would allow them to continue chip shipments without acquiring licenses for a limited period, aiming to ease immediate disruptions. As global demand for Nvidia's AI technology remains high, the US continues to navigate the delicate balance between fostering international AI development and maintaining stringent controls to restrict Chinese access. This development underscores Southeast Asia's critical role as a focal point in the global semiconductor supply chain and the broader geopolitical landscape. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-07-05

Parking Row Turns Ugly as Benz Driver Slaps Student in Bangkok Picture courtesy of Facebook/ หม่อม ณี BANGKOK - A Mercedes-Benz driver is at the centre of a storm after allegedly slapping a university student during a heated parking dispute outside a convenience store on Soi Sukhumvit 62 in Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365760-parking-row-turns-ugly-as-benz-driver-slaps-student-in-bangkok/

Picture courtesy of Facebook/ หม่อม ณี BANGKOK - A Mercedes-Benz driver is at the centre of a storm after allegedly slapping a university student during a heated parking dispute outside a convenience store on Soi Sukhumvit 62 in Bangkok. The student took to social media to share a video of the confrontation, captioning it, “Wealthy Mercedes-Benz driver slaps university student in Soi Sukhumvit 62.” The footage, however, resulted in unexpected backlash against the student. Netizens criticised both the driver’s use of violence and the students’ behaviour. The original post was deleted, but the video quickly went viral after others reposted it across Thai social media platforms. In the video, the driver defended his actions, explaining difficulties in opening his car door due to the students’ motorcycle being parked too close. He claimed he had asked the female student to move it, but she refused, citing a lack of keys. The driver argued that the motorcycle could have been moved without keys or her boyfriend could have been called to assist. He emphasised that the area was not meant for motorcycle parking and that his request had been ignored. The driver accused the students of having poor manners. The students, however, insisted that the driver was rude and aggressive. A bystander intervened, suggesting both parties were wrong; the students for parking in a car space and the driver for using violence. Picture courtesy of Facebook/ หม่อม ณี The video concluded with the driver becoming irate and swiping the student’s phone, ending the recording. The resolution of the incident remains unclear, with no reports of legal action by the students against the driver for the alleged assault. This altercation mirrors a similar incident in Nonthaburi province, where a jewellery store owner and lawyer clashed over a parking dispute. In that case, the lawyer verbally attacked the store owner after blocking a space, leading to legal proceedings. The outcome remains unresolved. The unfolding of these parking disputes highlights ongoing tensions in urban spaces over vehicle accommodations and proper conduct, illustrating a broader issue facing city residents. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-07-05

Thai Police Bust Cross-Border Motorbike Theft Gang Pictures courtesy of Siam Rath BANGKOK - Police in Samut Prakan crack down on an international motorbike theft ring, arresting three suspects and recovering over ten stolen bikes. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365758-thai-police-bust-cross-border-motorbike-theft-gang/