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  • Thailand and Maldives seal health boost pact in Geneva

    Thailand and the Maldives have sealed a landmark deal to boost public health collaboration, with bold plans to strengthen the Maldives’ primary healthcare and regulatory systems — all signed and sealed during a high-profile global summit in Switzerland. The agreement was inked today, May 21, at the World Health Assembly in Geneva. Thailand’s Deputy Minister …

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    Thailand and Maldives seal health boost pact in Geneva
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    Thailand and Maldives seal health boost pact in Geneva

    Thailand and the Maldives have sealed a landmark deal to boost public health collaboration, with bold plans to strengthen the Maldives’ primary healthcare and regulatory systems — all signed and sealed during a high-profile global summit in Switzerland.

    The agreement was inked today, May 21, at the World Health Assembly in Geneva. Thailand’s Deputy Minister of Public Health, Dej-is Khaothong, and the Maldives’ Minister of Health, Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim, joined forces to sign the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), marking a new era of regional health cooperation.

    “This partnership reflects our commitment to elevating health systems and sharing technical expertise for long-term impact,” said Dej-is, announcing the agreement from Geneva.

    The MOU outlines a broad framework of cooperation designed to:

    • Strengthen the Maldives’ primary healthcare delivery

    • Enhance the regulatory capacity of the Maldives Food and Drug Authority (FDA)

    • Boost training and development through health institutions and technical collaboration

    • Advance health policy research and system development

    • Promote digital health data exchange and secure sustainable funding for public health initiatives

    Thailand and Maldives seal health boost pact in Geneva | News by Thaiger

    Planned activities include exchanging regulations, experts, and data, hosting seminars and workshops, and providing technical support and training. A joint working committee will be established to monitor progress and drive implementation.

    The initial agreement will last three years, with automatic renewal unless either party opts to terminate the partnership with a three-month written notice via diplomatic channels.

    The Geneva visit wasn’t just about paperwork — Dej-is also joined a Ministerial Breakfast Meeting discussing the role of social participation in health policymaking. He reaffirmed Thailand’s political commitment to inclusive and transparent healthcare decision-making.

    Thailand and Maldives seal health boost pact in Geneva | News by Thaiger

    Beyond the Maldives partnership, the Thai deputy minister met with Saima Wazed, WHO’s Regional Director for South-East Asia, to explore cooperation in non-communicable disease prevention and disease surveillance along the Thailand–Myanmar border, reported The Nation.

    He also held talks with Punya Salila Srivastava, Secretary of India’s Department of Health & Family Welfare, to discuss future collaborations in traditional and alternative medicine, as well as universal health coverage.

    This strategic alliance signals a growing trend of regional health diplomacy, with Thailand positioning itself as a key player in shaping the future of healthcare across Asia.

    The story Thailand and Maldives seal health boost pact in Geneva as seen on Thaiger News.

    21 May 21 2025
    Health
    https://thethaiger.com/?p=902378
  • Nuns’ beach trip raises questions about discipline and donations

    Nuns from a temple in the central province of Samut Sakhon admitted to wearing wigs and going on a beach trip, following an online scandal. However, they insisted that they received permission from the National Office of Buddhism. The Facebook page CSI LA shared photos yesterday, May 20, showing the nuns dressed up, wearing wigs, and …

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    Nuns’ beach trip raises questions about discipline and donations
    Nuns’ beach trip raises questions about discipline and donationsLegacy
    Nuns’ beach trip raises questions about discipline and donations

    Nuns from a temple in the central province of Samut Sakhon admitted to wearing wigs and going on a beach trip, following an online scandal. However, they insisted that they received permission from the National Office of Buddhism.

    The Facebook page CSI LA shared photos yesterday, May 20, showing the nuns dressed up, wearing wigs, and enjoying themselves at the beach and during karaoke, in an attempt to expose what it described as inappropriate behaviour. The page stated…

    “Nuns from the renowned Ketumadee Sriwararam Temple went to the sea, sang songs, dressed up, wore wigs, took photos with tomboys, and failed to maintain their modesty.

    The question is, are these the proper practices of celibates? Is there no one monitoring or inspecting their behaviour? What are the true objectives behind the merit-making activities and donations at this temple? All the photos were taken in February 2020.”

    In the images, the women, reported to be nuns, were dressed in their usual attire, rather than the traditional all-white robes typically worn during a Dhamma retreat. Most wore hats or turbans, which the page claimed were used to conceal their identities as nuns.

    Nuns in Samut Sakhon caught enjoying beach and karaoke singing in wigs
    Photo via Facebook/ CSI LA

    The images were reportedly shared in a private LINE group chat, with accounts named “Nun Sa from Wat Ketumadee” and “Nun Thip from Wat Ketumadee.” The LINE accounts confirmed that they were indeed nuns from the temple.

    The page further alleged that the group of nuns raised over 100 million baht through donation campaigns at the temple and played key roles in temple activities, particularly those involving financial matters.

    Thai nun exposed of inappropriate practices
    Photo via Facebook/ CSI LA

    According to the page, each nun received a special bonus at the end of the year and was permitted to dress up and enjoy a holiday trip, as seen in the photos.

    One of the nuns pictured, Sirinthip, confirmed in an interview with Channel 7 that she and other nuns did indeed travel to the southern province of Phetchaburi for a beach trip.

    Thai nuns allegedly spend donation money on beach trip
    Photo via Facebook/ CSI LA

    Sirinthip claimed that before the trip, they conducted a ceremony to temporarily suspend the eight precepts of a Buddhist nun. She also stated that they obtained permission from the National Office of Buddhism for the vacation.

    Nuns accused of going on beach trip
    Photo via Facebook/ CSI LA

    She added that the expenses for the trip came from their personal funds and were not connected to temple donations. In her case, she claimed the money came from the sale of her land.

    As of now, the National Office of Buddhism and relevant authorities have not yet commented on whether permission for the vacation was officially granted, nor have they announced any investigation into the matter.

    The story Nuns’ beach trip raises questions about discipline and donations as seen on Thaiger News.

    21 May 21 2025
    Thailand News
    https://thethaiger.com/?p=902355
  • Trio busted for 700k baht hotel booking fraud in Pattaya

    What was meant to be a dream getaway to Pattaya turned into a financial nightmare for dozens of unsuspecting tourists after falling victim to a slick Facebook hotel booking scam, and now the suspects are behind bars. Yesterday, May 20, police arrested three suspects accused of running a fraudulent operation that used fake Facebook pages to …

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    Trio busted for 700k baht hotel booking fraud in Pattaya
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    Trio busted for 700k baht hotel booking fraud in Pattaya

    What was meant to be a dream getaway to Pattaya turned into a financial nightmare for dozens of unsuspecting tourists after falling victim to a slick Facebook hotel booking scam, and now the suspects are behind bars.

    Yesterday, May 20, police arrested three suspects accused of running a fraudulent operation that used fake Facebook pages to pose as reputable hotels in Pattaya. Their alleged con raked in over 700,000 baht, leaving holidaymakers duped and out of pocket.

    According to the Tourist Police Bureau, the trio was tracked down in a coordinated operation involving raids in Chanthaburi, Bangkok, and Ayutthaya, following arrest warrants issued by the Pattaya Provincial Court.

    “These suspects lured tourists using Facebook pages that mimicked popular Pattaya hotels,” said a bureau spokesperson. “They offered fake promotions to convince victims to transfer money for non-existent bookings.”

    Trio busted for 700k baht hotel booking fraud in Pattaya | News by Thaiger

    The scammers reportedly used a step-by-step strategy: first, they advertised highly attractive room deals, offering what seemed like unbeatable promotional rates. Tourists were asked to pay a small deposit to hold the reservation. Once the hook was set, the fraudsters followed up through Facebook Messenger, pressuring victims to pay the full room fee along with a deposit guarantee, claiming limited availability and time-sensitive offers.

    But the scam unravelled when victims showed up at their supposed hotels — only to find no bookings in their names and no records of payment. Worse still, the bank accounts used for payment had no connection to the hotels.

    Transaction records linked to the suspects’ accounts point to a total of over 700,000 baht being siphoned from victims, police said.

    Trio busted for 700k baht hotel booking fraud in Pattaya | News by Thaiger

    The three suspects have now been handed over to Pattaya Police Station for further legal proceedings. They face multiple charges, including fraud and identity misrepresentation, reported The Nation.

    Police urge travellers to exercise caution when booking accommodation online. “Always verify the authenticity of hotel Facebook pages,” said the Tourist Police Bureau. “If in doubt, call the hotel directly or use well-known booking platforms.”

    The story Trio busted for 700k baht hotel booking fraud in Pattaya as seen on Thaiger News.

    21 May 21 2025
    Crime News
    https://thethaiger.com/?p=902369
  • Shell-ebration time: Korat Zoo hatches giant tortoises

    Thailand has something to shell-ebrate — Korat Zoo has made history by successfully hatching 11 Aldabra giant tortoise babies, becoming the first zoo in the country to breed the rare species. The hatchlings emerged on Sunday, May 18, much to the delight of zookeepers and conservationists. Zoo director Thanachon Kensingh announced today, May 21, that …

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    Shell-ebration time: Korat Zoo hatches giant tortoises
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    Shell-ebration time: Korat Zoo hatches giant tortoises

    Thailand has something to shell-ebrate — Korat Zoo has made history by successfully hatching 11 Aldabra giant tortoise babies, becoming the first zoo in the country to breed the rare species.

    The hatchlings emerged on Sunday, May 18, much to the delight of zookeepers and conservationists. Zoo director Thanachon Kensingh announced today, May 21, that all 11 newborns are healthy and thriving under the watchful care of veterinarians and specialist reptile keepers.

    “The babies are currently in the nursery, where they’re being carefully monitored,” said Thanachon. “Their sex hasn’t yet been determined, but we’re very pleased with their condition.”

    The breakthrough comes from a group of just three adult Aldabra giants housed at the zoo — one male and two females. Korat Zoo, located in Chai Mongkhon subdistrict, Mueang district, Nakhon Ratchasima province, is part of the Zoological Park Organisation of Thailand and now leads the nation in breeding this iconic species.

    Shell-ebration time: Korat Zoo hatches giant tortoises | News by Thaiger

    According to zoo officials, the tortoises will eventually be introduced to public viewing areas once they’re big enough, with hopes they’ll become a major attraction for visitors.

    “The hatchlings mark an important step forward in conservation efforts and education,” said Thanachon. “We’re excited to share them with the public soon.”

    Shell-ebration time: Korat Zoo hatches giant tortoises | News by Thaiger

    The Aldabra giant tortoise is one of the world’s largest tortoise species, second only to the Galápagos tortoise and the African spurred tortoise.

    Endemic to the Aldabra Atoll in the Seychelles in the Indian Ocean, the species is listed as vulnerable, with a wild population estimated at around 100,000.

    Chief reptile keeper Sunthorn Jongklang explained that these gentle giants can grow over a metre long and weigh upwards of 250 kilogrammes. With their dark grey to black dome-shaped shells, they are as majestic as they are massive — and they can live up to 150 years, reported Bangkok Post.

    “This is a long-living species with a lot to teach us about endurance and conservation.”

    Shell-ebration time: Korat Zoo hatches giant tortoises | News by Thaiger

    As Thailand’s first successful Aldabra hatchery, Korat Zoo is now on the global conservation map — and the tiny tortoises are already making a big impact. Visitors can expect to meet the slow-moving superstars soon, but for now, they’re soaking up the spotlight from the safety of their nursery.

    The story Shell-ebration time: Korat Zoo hatches giant tortoises as seen on Thaiger News.

    21 May 21 2025
    Eastern Thailand News
    https://thethaiger.com/?p=902349
  • Royal Thai Navy seizes illegal Indonesian fishing boats off Phuket

    A dramatic high-seas sting netted two Indonesian fishing boats and 18 crew members, all caught red-handed illegally operating in Thai waters — and the Royal Thai Navy wasn’t letting them get away. The bust took place on Monday, May 19, when the HTMS Longlom intercepted the foreign boats about 80 nautical miles southwest of Phuket, …

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    Royal Thai Navy seizes illegal Indonesian fishing boats off Phuket
    Royal Thai Navy seizes illegal Indonesian fishing boats off PhuketLegacy
    Royal Thai Navy seizes illegal Indonesian fishing boats off Phuket

    A dramatic high-seas sting netted two Indonesian fishing boats and 18 crew members, all caught red-handed illegally operating in Thai waters — and the Royal Thai Navy wasn’t letting them get away.

    The bust took place on Monday, May 19, when the HTMS Longlom intercepted the foreign boats about 80 nautical miles southwest of Phuket, within Thailand’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

    The mission, led by the Region 3 branch of the Thai Maritime Enforcement Command Centre (Thai MECC 3), was the result of a coordinated patrol and swift response to local intelligence.

    It all began with a tip-off from a local fishing network on May 15, which flagged suspicious foreign vessels operating roughly 56 miles off Phuket’s coast.

    Thai MECC 3 Commander Vice Admiral Suwat Donsakul wasted no time. He launched an immediate investigation, using maritime surveillance systems and community reports to track the rogue boats.

    Royal Thai Navy seizes illegal Indonesian fishing boats off Phuket | News by Thaiger

    Royal Thai Navy seizes illegal Indonesian fishing boats off Phuket | News by Thaiger

    HTMS Longlom was deployed under the government’s Seal, Stop, Save initiative — a sweeping campaign that targets illegal fishing, drug trafficking, and other maritime threats in Thai waters.

    “Illegal fishing is not just theft of resources,” said Suwat. “It threatens our economy, our marine ecosystem, and our national sovereignty. We take it very seriously.”

    Despite challenging sea conditions and mechanical hiccups on the return journey, the HTMS Longlom successfully escorted the seized vessels to Thap Lamu Pier by 10am yesterday, May 20.

    Royal Thai Navy seizes illegal Indonesian fishing boats off Phuket | News by Thaiger

    Royal Thai Navy seizes illegal Indonesian fishing boats off Phuket | News by Thaiger

    Royal Thai Navy seizes illegal Indonesian fishing boats off Phuket | News by Thaiger

    Vice Admiral Suwat was on hand to oversee the operation as all 18 Indonesian crew members were taken into custody. A multidisciplinary investigation team was assembled on arrival, and the suspects were later transferred to Chalong Police Station for further legal proceedings.

    The two fishing boats are currently being held at the Royal Thai Navy Third Area Command at Cape Panwa, awaiting legal action under Thai fisheries and maritime law, reported The Phuket News.

    Royal Thai Navy seizes illegal Indonesian fishing boats off Phuket | News by Thaiger

    Royal Thai Navy seizes illegal Indonesian fishing boats off Phuket | News by Thaiger

    Thai MECC 3 has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the nation’s waters and cracking down on all forms of illegal maritime activity.

    Officials are urging Thai fishermen and coastal communities to continue reporting suspicious activity as part of a united effort to defend the Andaman Sea.

    Royal Thai Navy seizes illegal Indonesian fishing boats off Phuket | News by Thaiger

    The story Royal Thai Navy seizes illegal Indonesian fishing boats off Phuket as seen on Thaiger News.

    21 May 21 2025
    Crime News
    https://thethaiger.com/?p=902332
  • Parade featuring naked boy as baby Buddha sparks backlash

    An online backlash erupted after pictures and videos emerged showing a naked boy playing the role of the baby Buddha during a parade celebrating Atthami Bucha Day in the central province of Nakhon Pathom. Wat Mai Sukhontharam, a temple in Nakhon Chai Si district of Nakhon Pathom, held its annual ceremony, the 132nd Atthami Bucha, …

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    Parade featuring naked boy as baby Buddha sparks backlash
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    Parade featuring naked boy as baby Buddha sparks backlash

    An online backlash erupted after pictures and videos emerged showing a naked boy playing the role of the baby Buddha during a parade celebrating Atthami Bucha Day in the central province of Nakhon Pathom.

    Wat Mai Sukhontharam, a temple in Nakhon Chai Si district of Nakhon Pathom, held its annual ceremony, the 132nd Atthami Bucha, between May 17 and 19 to commemorate one of the most significant days in the Buddhist calendar. The day is believed to mark the cremation of Lord Buddha in Kushinagar, India.

    The ceremony aimed to highlight the fundamental truths of life, known in Buddhism as the four inevitable sufferings: birth, ageing, illness, and death. Buddhists believe that the path to ending suffering lies in accepting these truths and practising to attain the ultimate goal: nibbana, or nirvana.

    The event at Wat Mai Sukhontharam featured a decorative parade narrating the life of the Lord Buddha, a reenactment of his cremation ceremony, and a fireworks display to conclude the proceedings.

    Controversy arose during the parade on the first day of the event, when photos and videos circulated online showing a young boy, completely naked and painted white, standing atop a decorated vehicle portraying the newborn Buddha.

    Naked baby buddha role sparks criticism
    Photo via Facebook/ พี่ปุ้นพาเที่ยว

    Behind him stood a woman playing the role of Queen Maya Devi, the Buddha’s mother. The parade reportedly travelled through the local community.

    The scene displayed the day when Prince Siddhartha was born and took seven steps immediately after birth.

    Birth of Lord Buddha
    Photo via Wikipitaka

    Online commentators condemned the scene as a form of child abuse, regardless of the boy’s willingness, as it was inappropriate and humiliating.

    Many stated that adults have a responsibility to guide children towards positive and respectful behaviour, not to expose them to potentially harmful practices.

    Explicit parade to celebrate Buddhist day sparking drama
    Photo via Facebook/ ท่านเปา

    The Facebook page Tan Bao (meaning Bao Zheng) also shared another controversial image from the parade, depicting a naked man being punished in a representation of Buddhist hell.

    Although the original video featuring the naked boy was later deleted, neither the temple nor provincial officials has issued any official statements regarding the incident.

    The story Parade featuring naked boy as baby Buddha sparks backlash as seen on Thaiger News.

    21 May 21 2025
    Central Thailand News
    https://thethaiger.com/?p=902289
  • Officials capture 94 iguanas wreaking havoc on Thai crops

    They’re not native, they’re not welcome — and they’re not slowing down. A swarm of invasive iguanas is causing chaos in central Thailand, and wildlife officials have launched a full-scale capture mission before the situation spirals further out of control. Over five days last week, from May 13 to 17, Thai wildlife officials captured 94 …

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    Officials capture 94 iguanas wreaking havoc on Thai crops
    Officials capture 94 iguanas wreaking havoc on Thai cropsLegacy
    Officials capture 94 iguanas wreaking havoc on Thai crops

    They’re not native, they’re not welcome — and they’re not slowing down. A swarm of invasive iguanas is causing chaos in central Thailand, and wildlife officials have launched a full-scale capture mission before the situation spirals further out of control.

    Over five days last week, from May 13 to 17, Thai wildlife officials captured 94 free-roaming iguanas on Khao Phraya Doen Dong Mountain in Phatthana Nikhom district, Lopburi province, after villagers sounded the alarm over damaged crops and disrupted local ecosystems.

    “The complaints began in late 2023,” said Autthapol Charoenchansa, Director General of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP). “Villagers have seen their farmland raided by these arboreal lizards.”

    Officials capture 94 iguanas wreaking havoc on Thai crops | News by Thaiger

    In response, Natural Resources and Environment Minister Chalermchai Sri-on authorised a sweeping campaign to control the invasive population, now suspected to be spreading rapidly throughout the area.

    Sadudee Punpugdee, director of the Wild Fauna and Flora Protection Division, confirmed that recent inspections across 32 sites revealed a total of 310 iguanas — 113 males, 152 females, and 45 juveniles of unidentified gender.

    “These numbers are alarming and show how quickly the species is establishing itself. They’ve adapted far too well to the local environment.”

    During last week’s operation, 53 males, 30 females, and 11 iguanas of unidentified gender were captured across three villages. The reptiles have been safely transported to the Foreign Wildlife Conservation Centre (Northeast) in Nong Khai province, where they will be cared for under close supervision.

    Despite their seemingly laid-back reputation, iguanas pose serious threats to agriculture and biodiversity. Classified by the Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning as “protected but invasive,” these non-native reptiles have established damaging populations in countries across the globe — and now, Thailand could be next if left unchecked, reported Bangkok Post.

    The campaign, funded by the 2025 fiscal budget, includes research on iguana behaviour, environmental impact, and sustainable control measures. Wildlife officials are also urging the public not to release exotic pets into the wild, as this is often how invasive species take hold.

    The story Officials capture 94 iguanas wreaking havoc on Thai crops as seen on Thaiger News.

    21 May 21 2025
    Central Thailand News
    https://thethaiger.com/?p=902315
  • Former village headman survives shooting in Nonthaburi

    In Nonthaburi, a former village headman and prospective candidate for the Bang Rak Noi subdistrict administrative organisation chief, narrowly escaped harm when unknown assailants fired shots at his car. The incident occurred at 9pm yesterday, April 20, when 61 year old Suchart Kaewpradit was driving a white Toyota Yaris, with registration number 5 กท 6007 …

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    Former village headman survives shooting in Nonthaburi
    Former village headman survives shooting in NonthaburiLegacy
    Former village headman survives shooting in Nonthaburi

    In Nonthaburi, a former village headman and prospective candidate for the Bang Rak Noi subdistrict administrative organisation chief, narrowly escaped harm when unknown assailants fired shots at his car.

    The incident occurred at 9pm yesterday, April 20, when 61 year old Suchart Kaewpradit was driving a white Toyota Yaris, with registration number 5 กท 6007 Bangkok, back from a funeral in Pak Kret district.

    Turning left onto Rattanathibet Road near Bang Rak Noi BTS station, Suchart heard four gunshots and realised his car had been hit. Fearing for his safety, he quickly drove into a nearby petrol station.

    After the incident, he went to the police station to report the attack and inspect his vehicle. It was discovered that a bullet had pierced the driver’s side door, likely lodging inside the door. Police forensic teams were called to collect the bullet for analysis.

    Suchart recounted that he was returning from the funeral of a former village headman at Wat Sing Thong around 7.50pm. Upon hearing the gunshots, he decided to pull into the petrol station. Fortunately, he was unharmed despite the bullet hole in his car door.

    He did not notice where the shots came from, as he was focused on turning left into the petrol station to refuel. He did not see any suspicious vehicles following him on the road.

    Former village headman survives shooting in Nonthaburi | News by Thaiger
    Picture courtesy of KhaoSod

    However, he recalled hearing someone shout, “Did you change your car, headman?” as he was leaving the temple, though he could not identify the speaker. Suchart stated he has never had conflicts with anyone and has always been helpful to locals during his tenure as a village headman.

    Suchart speculated that the attack was not due to road rage, as other vehicles were driving in line with his. He was unsure of the motive behind the shooting but noted that if the gunman aimed higher, the bullet might have hit him.

    This year, he planned to run for election as the chief of the Bang Rak Noi subdistrict administrative organisation, with the current term ending in six months. However, he doubted this could have led to such violence.

    Initially, police secured his vehicle at the precinct, coordinating with forensic officers to examine the bullet type. Investigators are reviewing the crime scene for evidence and checking CCTV footage to identify and apprehend the perpetrators.

    Former village headman survives shooting in Nonthaburi | News by Thaiger

    The story Former village headman survives shooting in Nonthaburi as seen on Thaiger News.

    21 May 21 2025
    Crime News
    https://thethaiger.com/?p=901887
  • New Thai apps take on delivery giants with just 5-baht fees

    Thailand’s motorcycle taxi drivers and street food vendors are getting a long-overdue digital lifeline, thanks to two new low-cost platforms designed to beat big tech at its own game. On Monday, May 19, the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth) and Chulalongkorn University’s Asia Research Cluster for Social Solidarity and Inclusive Economy unveiled two groundbreaking platforms: …

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    New Thai apps take on delivery giants with just 5-baht fees
    New Thai apps take on delivery giants with just 5-baht feesLegacy
    New Thai apps take on delivery giants with just 5-baht fees

    Thailand’s motorcycle taxi drivers and street food vendors are getting a long-overdue digital lifeline, thanks to two new low-cost platforms designed to beat big tech at its own game.

    On Monday, May 19, the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth) and Chulalongkorn University’s Asia Research Cluster for Social Solidarity and Inclusive Economy unveiled two groundbreaking platforms: “Nong Khoei Ma Thao Rai?” (“Have You Been Here Before?”) and “Tamsang-Tamsong” (“Order and Deliver”).

    These systems aim to transform how small-scale vendors and riders do business, all while slashing commission fees to a fraction of what mainstream platforms charge.

    “This is about fairness, community, and putting money back into people’s pockets,” said Akkanat Wantanasombat, lead researcher behind the project.

    “Our platforms charge just 5 to 6 baht per transaction, compared to the 35% commission rates that crush small businesses.”

    New Thai apps take on delivery giants with just 5-baht fees | News by Thaiger
    Photo of Akkanat Wantanasombat courtesy of ประชาไท

    Developed with input from the very people who use them, motorcycle taxi drivers, local shops, and street food vendors, the apps are built for ease of use.

    Both platforms work through a mobile app or LINE Chat Bot, making them accessible even to those with limited tech experience. Jobs are assigned based on time and queue order, prioritising the closest available drivers to streamline delivery and minimise wait times.

    “This isn’t just about income,” Akkanat added. “It’s about building sustainable self-reliance within local communities.”

    New Thai apps take on delivery giants with just 5-baht fees | News by Thaiger
    Photo courtesy of ประชาไท
    New Thai apps take on delivery giants with just 5-baht fees | News by Thaiger
    Photo courtesy of Hfocus

    Chalerm Changthongmadan, President of the Motorcycle Drivers Association of Thailand, recalled the economic toll of Covid-19 on riders.

    “Daily earnings dropped from 700 to 800 baht to as low as 400 to 500 baht. These platforms help protect drivers from predatory competition and open the door to formal financial systems.”

    Already launched in 19 locations, including Bangkok, Nonthaburi, and Yala, the platforms are set to expand to 10 additional areas by the end of this year, reported TCIJ.

    Beyond income generation, the apps are also helping establish service standards and ensure more equitable economic participation across Thailand’s vast informal sector.

    Both platforms are available for free download on Google Play and the App Store.

    The story New Thai apps take on delivery giants with just 5-baht fees as seen on Thaiger News.

    21 May 21 2025
    Economy News
    https://thethaiger.com/?p=902290
  • Pathum Thani accident claims child’s life, injures six

    A tragic accident occurred in Pathum Thani province when a pickup truck, en route to the hospital with a two year old who had fallen from a building, overturned at a curve. The accident resulted in the death of a four year old passenger, while six others sustained injuries. Police and emergency services promptly arrived …

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    Pathum Thani accident claims child’s life, injures six
    Pathum Thani accident claims child’s life, injures sixLegacy
    Pathum Thani accident claims child’s life, injures six

    A tragic accident occurred in Pathum Thani province when a pickup truck, en route to the hospital with a two year old who had fallen from a building, overturned at a curve.

    The accident resulted in the death of a four year old passenger, while six others sustained injuries. Police and emergency services promptly arrived at the scene.

    The incident took place at 1am today, May 21, near the Pathum Thani Provincial Administrative Organisation office, on the Pathum Thani-Lat Lum Kaeo road in Ban Chang subdistrict. Police Colonel Sirawit Chaisawan and his team, along with medical personnel and forensic officers from the Ministry of Justice, attended the scene.

    They found the Isuzu D-Max pickup truck, registered in Bangkok, overturned and severely damaged by the roadside after skidding over 100 metres from the point of impact.

    Fifty metres from the wreckage, the body of a four year old boy was discovered on the road, while a critically injured two year old boy was also found. Five more men sustained injuries. Rescue teams from Pathum Thani Hospital transported the injured to receive medical attention.

    A 26 year old man, identified as Phat, recounted that he, along with the children’s guardians, was transporting the two year old after the child fell from a second-floor apartment in Sam Khok district. There were seven people in the vehicle, comprising five adults and two children.

    Pathum Thani accident claims child’s life, injures six | News by Thaiger
    Picture courtesy of KhaoSod

    As they approached the curve where the accident occurred, the vehicle lost control and struck the central reservation, causing it to overturn.

    The impact ejected both children from the vehicle, leading to the death of the four year old at the scene, while the two year old suffered severe injuries. Emergency services performed initial first aid, including CPR, before transferring the injured to Pathum Thani Hospital.

    Pol. Col. Sirawit, medical personnel, and forensic officers documented the scene, conducted interviews with the driver and injured parties, and are reviewing CCTV footage to ascertain the exact cause of the accident for further action, reported KhaoSod.

    Pathum Thani accident claims child’s life, injures six | News by Thaiger

    The story Pathum Thani accident claims child’s life, injures six as seen on Thaiger News.

    21 May 21 2025
    Crime News
    https://thethaiger.com/?p=901936