Mr. Steve Chia, assistant secretary-general, National Solidarity Party, lost control of his BMW motorbike while negotiating a corner near Mae Hong Son and Long Neck Karen Tribe in Northen Thailand on 17 April at approximately 11am. He was unconscious when the police took him to hospital.
The Think Centre, learnt of this accident when Mr. Chia made a long distance call to inform the Centre about the incident early today.
Chia had embarked on a solo 7000 km journey to north Thailand on 11 April, 2001. Ironically, he had earlier described the trip as a "symbolic journey for me - as it parallels the political journeys that opposition politicians undertake," Mr Chia had also added, "This is a tough and challenging journey, fraught with adventure, challenges and dangers. You can plan and prepare meticulously, but there's always the X-factor to deal with."
Mr. Chia has been warded for three days and has suffered an eight stitch gash in the inside of his mouth and has twisted his right arm. He has also sustained other injuries and is currently too weak for any independent travelling. His bike has also sustained severe damage and cannot be ridden.
The Think Centre has been following Mr. Chia's journey via the Internet and has been providing updates on its website.
Steve Chia is likely to be discharged later today. Given his present condition it is likely that the 7000km journey will be stopped after only 6 days on the road.
Chia is currently making plans with the help of Thai representative to have himself and his bike moved to Chang Mai where he will board a plane back to Singapore.
