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Phuket police arrest suspect in burglary of foreign-owned villa PHOTOS: Facebook/เหยี่ยวข่าว ภูเก็ต Newshawk Phuket Chalong Police have arrested a man wanted in connection with the burglary of a foreign-owned villa, according to a Phuket News report. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325162-phuket-police-arrest-suspect-in-burglary-of-foreign-owned-villa/

Chalong Police have arrested a man wanted in connection with the burglary of a foreign-owned villa, according to a Phuket News report. The suspect, named as 45 year old Santi Buakaew and a resident of Cherngtalay, in the coastal area of Thalang district, was arrested in Rawai. Santi was wanted for breaking into and robbing a villa in an undisclosed part of the island last October. On October 2, Phuket Provincial Court issued a warrant for his arrest. The authorities have not provided any information on the property that was targeted or on the nature of any items stolen or their value. By Peter Roche Caption: PHOTOS: Facebook/เหยี่ยวข่าว ภูเก็ต Newshawk Phuket Full story: Phuket GO 2024-04-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Moves Toward OECD Membership BANGKOK (NNT) - Thailand is making strides towards joining the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325160-thailand-moves-toward-oecd-membership/

BANGKOK (NNT) - Thailand is making strides towards joining the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, announced details after Thailand submitted an application for OECD membership. The announcement came during an event attended by representatives from OECD member countries and the European Union. While three countries raised important questions, the majority supported Thailand’s application. Thailand highlighted its readiness and its longstanding relations with the OECD, which span over 42 years. A study by the Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI) indicates that joining the OECD could boost Thailand’s GDP by 1.6% or about 200 billion baht, underlining the economic benefits of membership. OECD membership would likely increase investment, create jobs, and enhance the capabilities of the country’s workforce. Parnpree stated that OECD membership would provide greater economic stability for Thailand and elevate its international stature, as the OECD comprises developed countries. He expressed optimism that joining the OECD would help advance Thailand to developed country status by 2037. However, Minister Parnpree acknowledged challenges such as aligning laws and policies with international standards, which necessitate a public understanding of the benefits of joining. A committee has been formed to accelerate the membership process. By Krajangwit Johjit Source: NNT 2024-04-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Tourist boat catches fire while on river sight-seeing in Ayutthaya A tourist boat caught fire as it was bringing 24 Thai tourists for a sight-seeing tour of the Chao Phraya river in Muang district of Ayutthaya province this afternoon. All the tourists were, however, safely evacuated to another passing tourist boat. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325089-tourist-boat-catches-fire-while-on-river-sight-seeing-in-ayutthaya/

A tourist boat caught fire as it was bringing 24 Thai tourists for a sight-seeing tour of the Chao Phraya river in Muang district of Ayutthaya province this afternoon. All the tourists were, however, safely evacuated to another passing tourist boat. No one was harmed in the incident, but the boat was completely damaged by the fire. A tourist boat operator, Ms Natnicha Sorndee, said that the boat was about four years old and had insurance coverage for all the passengers. It was reported that the tourists were having lunch on board the boat when fire started, emitting black smoke, causing panic among some of them. Fortunately, another tourist boat passed by and all of them were evacuated on to it. Local police and officials of the Marine Department are investigating the cause of the fire. Source: Thai PBS 2024-04-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Phuket’s seven days safety campaign shows zero fatalities Picture courtesy of Phuket Provincial Police Phuket’s Seven Days safety campaign for Songkran 2024 continues to make its impact as the island remains free of any road fatalities since the commencement of the initiative on April 11. Over the past four days, 39 incidents have been recorded by officials, resulting in the same number of people being hospitalised due to injuries. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325086-phuket’s-seven-days-safety-campaign-shows-zero-fatalities/

Phuket’s Seven Days safety campaign for Songkran 2024 continues to make its impact as the island remains free of any road fatalities since the commencement of the initiative on April 11. Over the past four days, 39 incidents have been recorded by officials, resulting in the same number of people being hospitalised due to injuries. The report compiled by the Phuket branch of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM Phuket) revealed that yesterday, April 15, the campaign’s fifth day, nine accidents occurred across the island, leading to nine injuries. The breakdown of these incidents indicates two accidents each in Mueang District and Thalang District, with one individual injured in each, and six accidents in Kathu District, injuring six people. The DDPM Phuket’s report also provides a demographic insight into the victims of these accidents, showing that 23 of the injured are Thai nationals, 11 are from Myanmar, and five have been categorised as foreigners. Of further interest is ThaiRSC, the national road safety agency, which reported a slightly higher figure of 49 injured individuals in Phuket on the same day, although it concurred with the DDPM Phuket’s report of no fatalities. The Seven Days safety campaign, which began at midnight on April 10, will continue until midnight on April 17. Last year’s campaign saw a grimmer outcome, with five deaths and 51 injuries resulting from road accidents, reported The Phuket News. So far this year, ThaiRSC reports a total of 55 deaths and 8,121 injuries from road accidents in Phuket since January 1. Yet, the current Seven Days safety campaign displays a more encouraging trend, with no deaths reported since its commencement. In related news, Songkran celebrations kicked off with a bang on Bangla Road, Phuket on April 12 and are expected to reach their peak on April 13. Throngs of people, both locals and international tourists, assembled on Thaweewong Road and Soi Bangla, drawn in by the popular water-splashing events. By Mitch Connor Caption: Picture courtesy of Phuket Provincial Police Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai banks set for expansion amid ASEAN economies’ growth Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post A surge in regional business expansion is forecasted for major local banks in Thailand due to the growth potential of ASEAN economies. This outlook has been provided by Fitch Ratings Thailand, indicating promising revenue prospects for these banks through increased regional operations. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325085-thai-banks-set-for-expansion-amid-asean-economies’-growth/

A surge in regional business expansion is forecasted for major local banks in Thailand due to the growth potential of ASEAN economies. This outlook has been provided by Fitch Ratings Thailand, indicating promising revenue prospects for these banks through increased regional operations. In 2023, a noticeable upturn in the regional business of large local banks was observed, primarily due to several cross-border acquisitions. This led to significant overseas loan growth from 2020 to 2022. The international loan portfolio of domestic systemically important banks (D-SIBs) escalated to 10% of total outstanding loans, a rise from 6% in 2020, according to Jindarat Sirisithichote, associate director for financial institutions at Fitch Ratings Thailand. There are six D-SIBs in Thailand: Bangkok Bank (BBL), Kasikornbank (KBank), Krungthai Bank (KTB), Siam Commercial Bank (SCB), Bank of Ayudhya (Krungsri) and TMBThanachart Bank. Among these, BBL, KBank, SCB, and Krungsri have notably increased their operations in neighbouring countries. However, the foreign operations of local banks still constitute less than 1% of each bank’s total assets, except BBL, which has double-digit figures due to its extensive experience in this sector. Jindarat Sirisithichote noted that with the strong growth in Southeast Asian economies, particularly in Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines, Thai banks have substantial opportunities for regional expansion. Fitch expects Thai banks to steadily grow internationally by establishing branches and seeking acquisitions. This approach will aid banks in diversifying their revenue streams and applying their locally acquired expertise to similar overseas markets. Announced in February, SCB’s agreement to acquire a 100% share of consumer finance lender Home Credit Vietnam is an example of this strategic international growth. The acquisition is expected to be finalised in the first half of 2025, and will likely support SCB’s international banking business in the long term. Economic growth Revenue growth for KBank’s international banking business is projected at around 20% for 2024, following a 25% uptick the previous year. Krungsri aims to increase its revenue from this segment to 25% in three years, a significant rise from 14% in 2023. BBL, the country’s largest lender by total assets and a leading player in the international banking business, plans to sustain the segment at about 25% of the total loan portfolio in the coming years. According to Jindarat Sirisithichote, the growth in regional business opportunities has encouraged the Thai corporate sector to expand offshore. Over the past decade, overseas direct investment has seen a remarkable 223% increase, providing a ready customer base for Thai banks entering international markets, reported Bangkok Post. However, Thai banks will likely face increased competition from global counterparts, who are also keen on expanding their footprint in the region. By Alex Morgan Caption: Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pathum Thani taxi attack: Children injured as teens open fire Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A shocking act of violence shook the community of Pathum Thani when three reckless teenagers on a motorcycle exhibited extreme indifference to human life by shooting at a taxi filled with passengers, including small children, injuring two. The incident, which occurred last night, is currently under intense investigation by local authorities. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325084-pathum-thani-taxi-attack-children-injured-as-teens-open-fire/

A shocking act of violence shook the community of Pathum Thani when three reckless teenagers on a motorcycle exhibited extreme indifference to human life by shooting at a taxi filled with passengers, including small children, injuring two. The incident, which occurred last night, is currently under intense investigation by local authorities. The 51 year old taxi driver, Surapol, escaped injury, but two children, a 10 year old boy and a 7 year old girl, suffered minor wounds from shattered glass. After the incident, the police were notified and the injured children were immediately taken to Pathum Thani Hospital for treatment. The event unfolded after Surapol, who had spent the day selling food and drinks during the Songkran festival, was driving back home with five young relatives, aged between three and 12 years. As they approached the Phatum Wilai intersection, three motorcycle teenagers pulled up beside them. An altercation ensued after the motorcycle rider gestured rudely at the taxi driver. Shortly after, as the taxi made a turn into the Eua Arthorn Ban Chang housing complex, one of the teenagers fired a gun at the vehicle. Six bullet holes pierced the taxi’s rear door, and the flying glass injured the two children seated in the back. Surapol recounted the harrowing moment when the shot was fired, emphasising the fear and chaos that ensued as his young relatives screamed in terror. The assailants, described as helmetless and riding a black-and-white motorcycle of unknown make and registration, fled towards Lad Lum Kaew, reported KhaoSod. Police Colonel Vivat Asavavibul, the superintendent of the Mueang Pathum Thani Police Station, convened a meeting with investigators to expedite the search for the culprits. The police are examining CCTV footage and have launched a full-scale manhunt. The attack is believed to have been carried out with a shotgun, based on the type of bullet holes found in the taxi’s door. By Nattapong Westwood Caption: Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Man arrested in Pattaya for threatening Songkran revellers with a gun PHOTOS: The Pattaya News Police in Pattaya have arrested a Thai man who threatened people with a ‘real’ gun during the Songkran celebrations. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325079-man-arrested-in-pattaya-for-threatening-songkran-revellers-with-a-gun/

Police in Pattaya have arrested a Thai man who threatened people with a ‘real’ gun during the Songkran celebrations. According to a report from the Pattaya News, the incident happened on Saturday afternoon, April 13, in the Banglamung district. While people were out indulging in Songkran celebrations, a man, named only as 47 year old Mr Chamnan, became involved in a heated argument with a number of people. The reason for the argument has not been confirmed, but it’s understood Chamnan produced a Colt pistol from his home and began threatening the group. A woman named as 37 year old Pathama Nomcharoen intervened and managed to restrain Chamnan until police were called. By Peter Roche Caption: PHOTOS: The Pattaya News Full story: Phuket GO 2024-04-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Bangkok Launches Major Pavement Renovation Project BANGKOK (NNT) - The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has initiated a pilot project to refurbish the city’s pavements, covering a combined length of 86 kilometers across 16 roads. The project begins with a focus on Rama IV Road, extending from Hua Lamphong, the city's former main train station, to Kasemrat Road, which spans approximately 5 kilometers. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325078-bangkok-launches-major-pavement-renovation-project/

BANGKOK (NNT) - The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has initiated a pilot project to refurbish the city’s pavements, covering a combined length of 86 kilometers across 16 roads. The project begins with a focus on Rama IV Road, extending from Hua Lamphong, the city's former main train station, to Kasemrat Road, which spans approximately 5 kilometers. The renovation work is divided into two segments: the first, from Hua Lamphong to Lumphini Park’s gate No.3, spans 2.3 kilometers and is about 40% complete. The second segment, covering the remaining 2.7 kilometers, is 57% complete. Acknowledging complaints about the condition of the capital’s pavement, Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt pointed out the need for more comprehensive work, given that the city covers about 6,000 kilometers of pavement. According to Chadchart, the renovation project adheres to international standards for pavement construction. Notable changes include reducing curb concrete edging from 18.5 cm to 10 cm and using fortified concrete for surface paving to enhance durability. Alternatives such as asphalt concrete are also being considered. These materials are designed to be robust, with a concrete thickness of 10 cm and steel reinforcement of 6 millimeters. Additional features of the project include the installation of smooth ramps at building entrances, braille blocks for the visually impaired, and porous asphalt around trees to increase walking space. By Krajangwit Johjit Source: NNT 2024-04-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Phuket to Boost Maritime Facilities for Increased Yacht Traffic PHUKET (NNT) - Phuket province is experiencing a major increase in yacht and cruise liner traffic, with a total of 159 vessels entering and leaving its waters in 2023 alone, a rise from previous years. The trend has prompted the Transport Ministry to kick-start an accelerated development of a large port through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) project to cater to the growing demand. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325077-phuket-to-boost-maritime-facilities-for-increased-yacht-traffic/

PHUKET (NNT) - Phuket province is experiencing a major increase in yacht and cruise liner traffic, with a total of 159 vessels entering and leaving its waters in 2023 alone, a rise from previous years. The trend has prompted the Transport Ministry to kick-start an accelerated development of a large port through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) project to cater to the growing demand. Statistics from the Transport Ministry show fluctuating yacht traffic over the past five years, with numbers peaking in 2019, declining during the pandemic, and rebounding strongly in 2023. In response, Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit stated that the Marine Department is now tasked with enhancing Phuket as a premier maritime destination capable of accommodating various sizes of yachts from around the world. Plans are also underway to develop a cruise terminal to facilitate routes along the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea, connecting regional ports and enhancing the maritime travel experience. The feasibility of this extensive project is currently under review, with a particular focus on a new pier development in Koh Samui. The project, estimated to cost 12.86 billion baht, is scheduled for PPP Committee review by June. By Krajangwit Johjit Source: NNT 2024-04-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

PM Defends Digital Wallet Scheme Amid Concerns BANGKOK (NNT) - Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has reaffirmed his confidence in the government's 500-billion-baht digital wallet handout scheme, designed as a one-time initiative to boost consumer spending and stimulate economic activity. Despite concerns over its potential to increase reliance on government support, the prime minister clarified that the scheme has distinct terms compared to past handouts, including a stipulation that funds must be spent locally. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325076-pm-defends-digital-wallet-scheme-amid-concerns/

BANGKOK (NNT) - Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has reaffirmed his confidence in the government's 500-billion-baht digital wallet handout scheme, designed as a one-time initiative to boost consumer spending and stimulate economic activity. Despite concerns over its potential to increase reliance on government support, the prime minister clarified that the scheme has distinct terms compared to past handouts, including a stipulation that funds must be spent locally. Scheduled for launch in the last quarter of this year, the scheme is expected to start showing economic benefits by early to mid-next year. The premier noted that the initiative, along with a continued emphasis on tourism promotion, forms part of broader efforts to invigorate the national economy. Concerns have been raised about the scheme's financial logistics, particularly the plan to borrow funds from the Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives (BAAC). The borrowing strategy will be supplemented by 152.7 billion baht from the fiscal year 2025 budget and 175 billion baht reallocated from the current budget, totaling an additional 172.3 billion baht in loans for 17.23 million farmers. On April 11, the BAAC declared its intention to cooperate with the government in guaranteeing a favorable outcome and safeguarding against any financial risks associated with this highly anticipated campaign. Source: NNT 2024-04-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Surachate Hakparn: The rollercoaster career of Thailand’s most famous policeman Pol Gen Surachate Hakparn at the press conference on alleged online gambling involvement (22/02/2024) Deputy National Police chief Pol General Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn sounds surprisingly cheerful given that his high-flying career has just plunged into another crisis. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325073-surachate-hakparn-the-rollercoaster-career-of-thailand’s-most-famous-policeman/

Deputy National Police chief Pol General Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn sounds surprisingly cheerful given that his high-flying career has just plunged into another crisis. It’s as if he were trying to prove he is the proverbial cat with nine lives. “I wish everyone a safe return to their home provinces for happy meals with their family during Songkran … Happy Thai New Year,” he wrote recently on Facebook. Last month, Surachate was transferred to the Office of the Prime Minister along with National Police chief Pol Gen Torsak Sukvimol after a dispute erupted between Thailand’s top two cops. The transfer order, signed by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin last month, declared that their hostility threatened to escalate and undermine public trust in the police force. Turning point The conflict has been escalating since last September when Torsak beat competition from the more senior Surachate (counting from the number of years since becoming a superintendent) to be named the new national police chief. Surachate had been a strong contender for the top post in the Royal Thai Police (RTP). But just days before the appointment was made, armed policemen raided Surachate’s house in Bangkok over online gambling allegations. Many observers believe the raid was timed to shatter Surachate’s chance of rising to the top. Once a shining star Born to a junior policeman, Surachate grew up in the deep South province of Songkhla. As a teenager, he enrolled in the Armed Forces Academies Preparatory School’s Class 31 where his name was inscribed on the school’s plaque for impeccable behavior and sports performances. Caption: Pol Gen Surachate Hakparn at the press conference on alleged online gambling involvement (22/02/2024) Full story: Thai PBS 2024-04-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

PM Srettha visits Thaksin for Songkran water blessings PM Srettha Thavisin spent the morning of the final day of official Songkran public holidays visiting Thaksin Shinawatra at Chan Song La mansion. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325072-pm-srettha-visits-thaksin-for-songkran-water-blessings/

PM Srettha Thavisin spent the morning of the final day of official Songkran public holidays visiting Thaksin Shinawatra at Chan Song La mansion. He offered parolee and former prime minister Thaksin a traditional Songkran water blessing, a deed associated with the Thai New Year in which people pour scented water on the hands of their elders’ and exchange good wishes. The caption on PM Srettha’s X post reads, “I am here to wish PM Thaksin a Happy New Year’. Full story: Thai PBS 2024-04-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pita vows Move Forward will return stronger after charter court verdict Former Move Forward party leader Pita Limjaroenrat told his supporters in the north-eastern province of Khon Kaen today that this Songkran may be his last as a member of parliament, because of the grim prospect that the party may be dissolved by the Constitutional Court. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325002-pita-vows-move-forward-will-return-stronger-after-charter-court-verdict/