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Police swoop on an illegal gambling den in Nonthaburi. Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post By Bob Scott In a daring move set to shake up the Land of Smiles, the Government of Thailand is pushing forward with a controversial plan to legalise casinos, sneakily packaged as entertainment complexes. This bold move comes hot on the heels of outspoken former premier Thaksin Shinawatra’s call to legalise online gambling, promising a windfall of tax revenue. Now, the Digital Economy and Society Ministry is immersed in talks with various stakeholders to thrash out the details of online gambling regulation. Currently nestled in the House of Representatives for review, the proposal has sparked a heated debate. Civil society groups have rung alarm bells, expressing fears that loosening the reins on gambling might unleash a Pandora’s box of social issues if regulations aren’t strict enough. Rumbling concerns suggest that the glitzy project could end up lining the pockets of a select few powerful investors whilst leaving society to grapple with the fallout. Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn, who holds the reins at the Association of Thai Travel Agents, admits that civic groups have an uphill battle against the tide of legislative momentum. Despite the glittering potential for a tourism boost, he warns that lax regulations could tarnish Thailand’s sterling reputation, and raise the spectre of money laundering. Sanan Angubolkul of the Thai Chamber of Commerce echoes these sentiments, underscoring tourism as the driving force behind the policy while urging caution regarding its broader impacts. Economic pundits predict that, if rolled out successfully, the entertainment complex could be a game-changer for GDP and job creation, with tantalising estimates of 69.6 billion baht in revenue. Pornchai Thiraveja, leading the charge at the Fiscal Policy Office, points out that while gambling itself might not directly prop up the economy, the ripples from associated activities could pack a punch in GDP growth. Amonthep Chawla, chief economist at CIMB Thai Bank, highlights the juicy tax revenue poised to flow from legitimising the once-underground gambling scene. Meanwhile, Krungsri Securities sees the formalisation of online gambling as a financial goldmine waiting to be tapped. Kriengkrai Thiennukul, head of the Federation of Thai Industries, views the entertainment complex as a catalyst to stimulate the economy by pulling in tourists and stemming the flow of cash to neighbouring countries. The Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry, and Banking is betting on tourism-led GDP growth, buoyed by a surge of foreign visitors and government stimulus efforts. Thaniwan Kulmongkol, President of the Thai Restaurant Association, suggests placing the entertainment complex in lesser-known locales to spruce up tourism there, steering clear of already bustling hotspots like Pattaya. But the spectre of managing gambling within these complexes looms large. Taking no chances, a network of anti-gambling advocacy groups is banging the drum against the proposal, wary that its fruits will be harvested by only the elite echelon of investors. Amidst these unfolding debates, police forces have been busy cracking down on illegal dens of chance, keeping the gambling landscape under a watchful eye. As Thailand flirts with its dicey casino gamble, the nation awaits to see whether this high-stakes bet will usher in an economic boon or bring the house down with it. The stakes are high, and only time will reveal which way the chips will fall in this bold new venture. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-20

Thaksin’s power tariff cut plan sparks debate on electricity pricing By Ryan Turner PTTEP’s offshore oil and gas rig | Photo via PTTEP Thaksin Shinawatra‘s proposal to lower the power tariff from 4.15 to 3.70 baht per kilowatt-hour has ignited a discussion on the future of electricity pricing, which has remained elevated since 2022. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349344-thaksin’s-power-tariff-cut-plan-sparks-debate-on-electricity-pricing/

PTTEP’s offshore oil and gas rig | Photo via PTTEP By Ryan Turner Thaksin Shinawatra‘s proposal to lower the power tariff from 4.15 to 3.70 baht per kilowatt-hour has ignited a discussion on the future of electricity pricing, which has remained elevated since 2022. The adjustment of tariff rates directly impacts electricity bills, with a reduced tariff leading to lower costs for businesses and households. The former prime minister introduced the tariff reduction plan on January 5 during an election campaign in Chiang Rai for the Provincial Administrative Organisation chief, scheduled for February 1. In the northern province, he assured voters that the government intended to reduce the power tariff to as low as 3.70 baht per unit this year. He pointed out that curbing electricity prices does not solely depend on government financial support. Following her father’s suggestion, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra noted that reducing the tariff to 3.70 baht per unit is feasible and a priority for the government. On Thursday, January 16, the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) suggested a plan to decrease the power tariff by 0.17 baht per unit if the government reduced its policy expenses aimed at promoting renewable energy investments. A portion of the current 4.15-baht tariff rate is allocated to support this initiative. Entrepreneurs facing high energy costs and analysts seeking more suitable tariff rates have proposed their own strategies to lower electricity bills. One approach to reducing power bills involves adjusting the availability payment (AP), a fundamental element of the government’s power purchase agreements with power companies, according to Isares Rattanadilok Na Phuket, Vice-Chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI). Isares suggested that adjusting the AP could lower costs associated with electricity generation and distribution, alongside proposals to cut expenses related to the transport of natural gas and liquefied natural gas (LNG), which are used for power generation in Thailand. Power purchase agreements, typically spanning 25 years, obligate the government to pay for electricity throughout the entire period, which comprises the AP, even if actual usage is lower during that time. An AP ensures a constant electricity supply to prevent blackouts but contributes to higher tariffs. Isares advocated for government negotiations with power companies regarding the AP, citing an excess national electricity supply compared to demand. The ERC disclosed that the AP constitutes 16% of the power tariff, while fuel costs make up 60%. Around 4% covers reimbursement to the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) for financial losses incurred from previous electricity price subsidies. EGAT’s losses, initially at 120 billion baht due to government directives to subsidise electricity prices amid rising gas prices following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, have decreased to 85.2 billion baht this month. An additional 10% of the tariff is attributed to transmission costs, with 6% for distribution costs. The remaining 4% is termed policy expenses, covering state policies such as renewable energy promotion and support for the Energy Development Fund. Cost surge A declining domestic gas supply has led to increased imports of more expensive LNG, whose prices surged following the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Consequently, the power tariff reached a record high of 4.72 baht per unit that year and continued to rise to 5.33 baht per unit for businesses between January and April 2023, with households paying 4.72 baht per unit during the same period. Isares suggested the government promote solar and wind power generation facilities, which do not require fuel, allowing power companies to save on costs. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-20

Thaksin plans one million homes for low-income Thais By Ryan Turner Thaksin during his visit to Bueng Kan | Photo via Pheu Thai Party Thaksin Shinawatra, the former prime minister of Thailand and de facto leader of the ruling Pheu Thai Party, announced plans to construct up to one million housing units for low-income Thai nationals. The announcement was made during a rally in Bueng Kan province. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349342-thaksin-plans-one-million-homes-for-low-income-thais/

Thaksin during his visit to Bueng Kan | Photo via Pheu Thai Party By Ryan Turner Thaksin Shinawatra, the former prime minister of Thailand and de facto leader of the ruling Pheu Thai Party, announced plans to construct up to one million housing units for low-income Thai nationals. The announcement was made during a rally in Bueng Kan province. The government recently launched the Home for Thais scheme and Thaksin stated that around 31 million people have shown interest in participating, with hundreds of thousands already registered. He made these remarks during a campaign event in Bueng Kan province, ahead of the February 1 provincial administration organisation elections. Thaksin highlighted the demand for housing, noting that only about 7,000 units are currently being constructed. To meet this demand, he said the government plans to build at least 100,000 more units this year and another 100,000 next year, with the ultimate goal of constructing one million units. He shared that he has been contemplating housing projects for low-income residents in Bangkok since his leadership of the Thai Rak Thai Party, the precursor of Pheu Thai. His vision includes constructing housing near the electric rail system, with trips costing no more than 20 baht. He also advocated for the expansion of Bangkok’s rail transport system to connect with other provinces. Thaksin also addressed the rubber industry, claiming responsibility for overturning a Cabinet decision in 2003 to limit rubber farming. He argued for expansion, envisioning new markets and fairer prices, citing successful rubber-growing areas in Bueng Kan as evidence of his decision. In addition, Thaksin pledged to intensify efforts against drug-related issues, aiming for prompt rehabilitation of drug addicts and stricter action against drug dealers. He warned that assets acquired through illegal drug activities, such as houses and cars, would be seized, and offenders would face imprisonment. He concluded by mentioning future initiatives, including the next phase of the digital money handout scheme for individuals under 60, reported Bangkok Post. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-20

Hospital staff takes baby steps to solve abandoned newborn mystery By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Pattaya News A newborn baby boy, thought to be only 4-5 days old, has been discovered abandoned at Pattaya Patthamakun Hospital. Hospital staff are now pulling out all the stops to care for the baby while local officials embark on a mission to uncover the identity of the mystery mother. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349341-hospital-staff-takes-baby-steps-to-solve-abandoned-newborn-mystery/

Picture courtesy of Pattaya News By Bob Scott A newborn baby boy, thought to be only 4-5 days old, has been discovered abandoned at Pattaya Patthamakun Hospital. Hospital staff are now pulling out all the stops to care for the baby while local officials embark on a mission to uncover the identity of the mystery mother. The discovery was made on January 17 when Bang Lamung district chief Phatphat Sritanyanon and his wife, Primrita Sritanyanon, the leader of Bang Lamung Red Cross Association, made a heartfelt visit to the hospital. The couple came bearing gifts of baby essentials, meeting with the hospital’s big boss, Doctor Wichai Thanasophon, to see how they could help. The couple was whisked up to the third floor of the Pattayathorn Building, where the little boy was being looked after. Dr Wichai reported that the baby, weighing in at a healthy 2,886 grammes, had been heartlessly left outside the delivery room. In a bizarre twist, CCTV picked up a woman abandoning the child but didn’t clarify whether she’d actually given birth there. The fact that the baby’s umbilical cord had a hospital clamp has everyone raising their eyebrows. Bang Lamung Police Station officers are now on the case, working to track down the woman responsible. Until she’s found, it’s business as usual for the hospital, which continues to lovingly care for the baby. Chief Phatphat was quick to point out that if the mother is tracked down, any decision about reuniting her with the child will be strictly down to the legal officials. In the meantime, the newborn will be in the capable hands of the Bang Lamung Red Cross Association, along with the outfit’s medical and social work experts, dedicated to ensuring his well-being for the next six to seven months. The little boy is yet to officially receive a name, but for now, he’s known as Nong Ohm, borrowing the nickname of the district chief himself. It’s a fitting name that captures both the heartache and hope surrounding this tiny tot’s tumultuous start in life. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-20

Boy found safe in Khon Kaen after drug use with father By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Dailynews A stepmother in Udon Thani reached out to a local activist after concerns that her husband was introducing their 12 year old son, A, to drugs. However, when officials investigated, they initially lost contact with the family. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349340-boy-found-safe-in-khon-kaen-after-drug-use-with-father/

Picture courtesy of Dailynews By Bright Choomanee A stepmother in Udon Thani reached out to a local activist after concerns that her husband was introducing their 12 year old son, A, to drugs. However, when officials investigated, they initially lost contact with the family. Eventually, they found the boy safe in Khon Kaen, preparing to become a novice monk, and he admitted to drug use with his father. Activist Kan Jompalang received a complaint from 46 year old Jib, the stepmother, about her husband, 40 year old Suthiphong, who was the boy’s biological father. Suthiphong, a former rescue worker in Udon Thani, had a history of heavy drug use and allegedly abused his son. Jib, unable to tolerate her husband’s behaviour, sent a video to Kan, showing him encouraging their son to use drugs. Upon receiving the complaint and video evidence, Kan’s team coordinated with several local officials, including Pisitchai Apaipiyakoon, the deputy governor of Udon Thani, and Police Colonel Phatthanaphon Chanphon from the Udon Thani District Police Station. They conducted a search at a rented room on Ring Road, Mak Khaeng subdistrict, Udon Thani province, to find the boy. On arrival, they found the room locked from the outside and empty, with only a motorcycle parked nearby. Unable to contact Jib, the team discovered that the boy’s grandfather lived on Chintakam Road, Udon Thani Municipality. Drug use The deputy governor led a team to the grandfather, who confirmed that the boy was at Wat Sawang Phosri temple in Nong Ruea district, Khon Kaen, preparing for ordination. The team contacted the temple’s abbot, who confirmed the boy’s presence and wellbeing. Speaking with his grandfather, the boy admitted to using drugs with his father as shown in the video. He explained that the drugs were obtained from a person in Ban Na Sai and that he followed his father’s example, who also physically abused him. Later, police reported to Kan’s team that they had located Suthiphong and Jib. Jib explained that she had reconciled with her husband and wished to withdraw the complaint, citing a moment of emotional impulse. Suthiphong admitted to using drugs with his son for about two months, having started first and not opposing his son’s decision to try them. He mentioned obtaining the drugs from a neighbour. Consequently, police detained Suthiphong for legal proceedings and kept Jib as a witness, reported KhaoSod. They also searched the rented room, finding drug paraphernalia and a firearm but no one was present. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-20

Woman accused of visa fraud arrested in Bangkok By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Matichon A woman accused of visa fraud, who had closed her company after receiving 10 arrest warrants and causing damages exceeding 3 million baht, was arrested while working as a dishwasher in Bangkok. The arrest took place on Saturday, January 18 in front of a restaurant in the Chom Thong district. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349339-woman-accused-of-visa-fraud-arrested-in-bangkok/

Picture courtesy of Matichon By Bright Choomanee A woman accused of visa fraud, who had closed her company after receiving 10 arrest warrants and causing damages exceeding 3 million baht, was arrested while working as a dishwasher in Bangkok. The arrest took place on Saturday, January 18 in front of a restaurant in the Chom Thong district. Police Lieutenant General Siam Boonsom and Police Colonel Santi Korkasem directed the operation, which was led by Police Lieutenant Chada Sesavesh and her team. They successfully apprehended 43 year old Narapas, whose surname is withheld, at 4pm. She faces charges under 10 different warrants for fraud-related offences issued by various courts in Thailand throughout 2024. The charges against Narapassara include fraud and embezzlement, with warrants issued from courts across the country, such as the Dusit District Court, Phra Nakhon South District Court, and Nakhon Ratchasima District Court, among others. Narapassara had previously operated a company called NJ Extension Visa Co., Ltd., which was based at The Trendy Building on Sukhumvit 13. Her business involved processing visas, booking flights, and arranging accommodation. However, clients reported that after payments were made, the services were not delivered as promised. Narapassara allegedly avoided fulfilling the agreements, citing various issues, and failed to issue refunds to some clients. The fraud affected over 20 clients, resulting in financial damage of more than 3 million baht (US$87,166). Police from the third operations unit of the Child and Women Protection Sub-Division (CWP) investigated and tracked Narapassara to the Bang Mod subdistrict in Chom Thong, where she was working as a dishwasher. Upon her arrest, she confessed to the fraudulent activities, explaining that incomplete documentation from clients prevented her from fulfilling visa requests in a timely manner, reported KhaoSod. Narapassara was subsequently taken to Bang Sue Police Station for legal proceedings. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-20

Thailand battles hazardous PM2.5 pollution levels in 28 provinces By Ryan Turner Air pollution in Bangkoik | Photo via KhaoSod English/X Bangkok and 64 out of 76 provinces in Thailand experienced unsafe levels of PM2.5 dust pollution this morning, January 20, with 28 provinces reaching hazardous red levels. Samut Sakhon reported the most severe air pollution. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349338-thailand-battles-hazardous-pm25-pollution-levels-in-28-provinces/

Air pollution in Bangkoik | Photo via KhaoSod English/X By Ryan Turner Bangkok and 64 out of 76 provinces in Thailand experienced unsafe levels of PM2.5 dust pollution this morning, January 20, with 28 provinces reaching hazardous red levels. Samut Sakhon reported the most severe air pollution. According to the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA), at 9am, PM2.5 levels reached hazardous levels in 28 provinces, with readings between 75.3 and 133.1 microgrammes per cubic metre (µg/m³) over the past 24 hours. The government’s safe threshold is set at 37.5µg/m³. Samut Sakhon recorded the highest PM2.5 level at 133.1µg/m³, followed by Nakhon Pathom with 115.3, Sing Buri at 107.6, Ang Thong at 98.7, Nonthaburi at 98.1, Chai Nat at 97.3, Pathum Thani at 93.8, and Ayutthaya at 93.4. Other provinces experiencing red levels were Lop Buri, Ratchaburi, Samut Songkhram, Bangkok, Suphan Buri, Saraburi, Phetchaburi, Loei, Phetchabun, Uthai Thani, Rayong, Samut Prakan, Phichit, Kanchanaburi, Nong Bua Lam Phu, Nakhon Sawan, Chaiyaphum, Khon Kaen, Kamphaeng Phet, and Maha Sarakham. Thirteen provinces maintained safe PM2.5 levels. Yellow (moderate air quality) levels were observed in Ranong, Lampang, Phayao, Phang Nga, Surat Thani, Phatthalung, Chiang Rai, Chumphon, and Chiang Mai. Green (good air quality) levels were seen in Nakhon Si Thammarat (25µg/m³), Mae Hong Son (22.3), Krabi (21.6), and Trang (18.3). Thirty-six other provinces experienced yellow levels. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-20

Thailand’s UNHRC role challenged by human rights shortfalls, says advocate By Ryan Turner Pro-democracy demonstrators display the three-finger resistance symbol in Bangkok, June 24, 2021 | Photo via AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit As a newly elected member of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), Thailand faces the need to elevate its human rights performance to align with international standards, according to a Thai human rights advocate. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349337-thailand’s-unhrc-role-challenged-by-human-rights-shortfalls-says-advocate/

Pro-democracy demonstrators display the three-finger resistance symbol in Bangkok, June 24, 2021 | Photo via AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit By Ryan Turner As a newly elected member of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), Thailand faces the need to elevate its human rights performance to align with international standards, according to a Thai human rights advocate. Sunai Phasuk, a senior researcher at Human Rights Watch (HRW), discussed Thailand’s human rights situation on January 17 at the Foreign Correspondent Club of Thailand, prior to the release of HRW’s annual country report. He expressed concerns that Thailand’s current human rights practices fall short of the standards necessary for its 2025 to 2027 UNHRC term. Countries seeking membership in the council should already possess a strong track record in protecting human rights and have mechanisms in place to safeguard civil, political, and cultural rights. Most critically, their human rights practices should be consistently upheld. Sunai noted that while Thailand campaigned for a UNHRC seat over the past decade, culminating in its October election, it should have concurrently worked on enhancing its human rights standards. Thailand’s term on the council began on January 1. He referenced last year’s dissolution of the Move Forward Party (MFP) and the lifetime ban imposed on 44 of its MPs for attempting to reform the monarchy. He also mentioned the death of political activist Netiporn Sanesangkhom, who died in prison during a hunger strike demanding bail rights for political detainees. Sunai highlighted the increasing number of individuals convicted of sedition and lèse-majesté, often being denied bail. Civil society has suggested incorporating lèse-majesté charges into an Amnesty Bill. However, support for this proposal is lacking in Parliament, leaving many political prisoners incarcerated. He further stated that Thailand is obligated to adhere to the principle of non-refoulement under international human rights law. Nevertheless, political asylum seekers are frequently returned to their home countries, facing punishment, as seen in the recent cases of UNHCR-recognised Cambodian refugees. He pointed out that Thailand invested significant effort in negotiating and lobbying for its UNHRC seat and is now celebrating its success, yet has not made genuine progress in improving its human rights record. As reported by Bangkok Post, when questioned about how Thailand could enhance its human rights standards to justify its UNHRC membership, Sunai suggested that Thailand should undergo thorough scrutiny through UN mechanisms such as the Universal Periodic Review (UPR). Being evaluated by other member states could help Thailand identify areas in need of improvement. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-20

Bangkok Tops Chinese New Year Destinations for Global Travellers File photo for reference only Bangkok has been crowned the top destination for Thai and foreign tourists gearing up to celebrate Chinese New Year in Thailand. The bustling capital has surpassed other popular locales as accommodation searches have surged ahead of the festivities due to start on 29 January, according to digital travel platform Agoda. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349133-bangkok-tops-chinese-new-year-destinations-for-global-travellers/

File photo for reference only Bangkok has been crowned the top destination for Thai and foreign tourists gearing up to celebrate Chinese New Year in Thailand. The bustling capital has surpassed other popular locales as accommodation searches have surged ahead of the festivities due to start on 29 January, according to digital travel platform Agoda. In recent data shared by Agoda on 15 January, Bangkok headed the list for Thai tourists, with Pattaya and Chiang Mai trailing, showing a 38% and 55% increase in year-over-year search volumes respectively. Emerging destinations like Khon Kaen have shown a remarkable spike in interest, with a 2,964% increase year-over-year in searches, highlighting a trend toward exploring less traditional tourist spots. The appeal of Bangkok extends beyond local visitors. Foreign tourists have shown an increased interest, marked by a 70% rise in accommodation searches. Phuket and Hat Yai also feature prominently, with respective increases of 80% and 30%. Malaysians continue to lead the list of foreign nationals searching for stays in Thailand, followed by visitors from China and South Korea. Agoda spokesperson noted, “For the second consecutive year, Bangkok remains a favourite for local and international travellers during the Chinese New Year. Phuket and Chiang Mai draw continued interest, but new hotspots like Khon Kaen are gaining traction.” Shifts are also noticeable in outbound travel trends among Thai tourists. Tokyo maintains its position as the top international destination, demonstrating a 66% increase in accommodation searches. Seoul has gained ground, rising to second place with a staggering 519% increase, while Osaka secures third with a 42% rise. Contrastingly, Hong Kong, which was a top destination last year, has seen its appeal fade, indicating evolving traveller preferences. -- 2025-01-17

Norway Tops Global Breast Size Rankings, Study Reveals File photo for reference only Norway has emerged as the leader in average breast size per a fresh survey by the World Population Review. The comprehensive report, examining 108 countries, delves into intriguing correlations between body mass index (BMI) and breast size, highlighting that breast size is unique to individuals yet influenced by factors like genetics, diet, and age. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349132-norway-tops-global-breast-size-rankings-study-reveals/

Thailand Faces Record Low Births, Sparking Population Concerns File photo for reference only In a remarkable demographic shift, Thailand has reported fewer than 500,000 births in a single year for the first time in 75 years. In 2024, only 462,240 babies were born, a significant drop from the previous year's 519,000. Mahidol University’s expert, Associate Professor Chalermpol Chamchan, emphasised that this marks the fourth consecutive year where mortalities surpassed births, underscoring a demographic dilemma. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349130-thailand-faces-record-low-births-sparking-population-concerns/

File photo for reference only In a remarkable demographic shift, Thailand has reported fewer than 500,000 births in a single year for the first time in 75 years. In 2024, only 462,240 babies were born, a significant drop from the previous year's 519,000. Mahidol University’s expert, Associate Professor Chalermpol Chamchan, emphasised that this marks the fourth consecutive year where mortalities surpassed births, underscoring a demographic dilemma. The total fertility rate in Thailand has plummeted to a concerning 1.0, below Japan's 1.2, aligning more closely with nations like South Korea and Singapore known for their low birth rates. Projections are grim, forecasting a dramatic population decrease from 66 million to a mere 40 million over the next 50 years. Correspondingly, the workforce could dwindle by 15 million, raising alarms over future labour shortages and economic ramifications. Efforts by the government, such as the campaign 'Have Children for the Nation,' have yet to substantially sway public sentiment. A recent survey revealed that only 35.8% of respondents definitely intend to have children. An additional 29.9% are ambivalent, presenting an opportunity for targeted policies to bolster this number to over 60%, according to Chalermpol. Contributing to this trend are economic hardships, environmental pollution, and deteriorating living conditions, dissuading prospective parents. The Interior Ministry's data corroborate these findings; Thailand's population saw a minor decline of 0.06% by the end of 2023, decreasing by 37,860 individuals. Thailand now ranks among the globe's top three countries grappling with the steepest birth rate declines, boasting an 81% drop over the last 74 years. This significant decrease has even put Thailand ahead of Japan, highlighting a pressing global concern of contracting populations. As the country navigates these challenges, strategic policymaking and societal shifts are imperative to address the burgeoning demographic crisis. -- 2025-01-17

Thai Telecom Titan Merger Hits Roadblock Amid Shareholder Pushback File photo for reference only In a dramatic turn for Thailand's telecommunications landscape, shareholders of telecom giants Advanced Info Service (AIS) and Thaicom have been urged to reject acquisition offers from their controlling companies, Gulf Energy Development and Intouch Holdings. The boards of both telecom firms are recommending a firm no to the merger plans, disrupting the ambitious consolidation strategy announced back in July. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349129-thai-telecom-titan-merger-hits-roadblock-amid-shareholder-pushback/

File photo for reference only In a dramatic turn for Thailand's telecommunications landscape, shareholders of telecom giants Advanced Info Service (AIS) and Thaicom have been urged to reject acquisition offers from their controlling companies, Gulf Energy Development and Intouch Holdings. The boards of both telecom firms are recommending a firm no to the merger plans, disrupting the ambitious consolidation strategy announced back in July. Gulf Energy, the major player behind Thaicom, and Intouch Holdings, which steers AIS, had unveiled plans for a merger they envisioned would transform the sector. The proposal, already blessed by shareholders of Gulf Energy, aims to aggregate a telecom powerhouse worth a staggering 1.037 trillion baht, approximately US$30 billion. Gulf Energy, Intouch, and Thai billionaire Sarath Ratanavadi sought to acquire a 58.9% share in Thaicom at 11 baht per share. Yet, rising stock prices since the merger's whisperings have led Thaicom to advise its shareholders to turn down the offer. As of January 16th, Thaicom's shares showed resilience, trading at a higher 12.3 baht. AIS has similarly seen a bid on its shares, initially valued at 216.30 baht each, then revised downward to 211.43 baht. However, AIS presented an alternative valuation suggesting its worth between 229.55 baht and 285.70 baht per share, with the stock closing positively at 290 baht, reflecting market confidence. This resistance from the telecom firms leaves the future of the merger uncertain. Gulf Energy and Intouch have yet to comment, and the industry watches closely for developments that could reshape Thailand’s telecommunications sphere dramatically. -- 2025-01-17

Study Rings Alarm: Thai Children Face Rising Obesity Crisis File photo for reference only In a troubling revelation, a recent study has highlighted that Thailand ranks as the third worst in the ASEAN region for childhood obesity, trailing only Malaysia and Brunei. A staggering 13.4% of Thai children aged six to 14 are impacted by obesity amid poor dietary habits, with over 84% of them regularly consuming salty snacks. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349126-study-rings-alarm-thai-children-face-rising-obesity-crisis/

File photo for reference only In a troubling revelation, a recent study has highlighted that Thailand ranks as the third worst in the ASEAN region for childhood obesity, trailing only Malaysia and Brunei. A staggering 13.4% of Thai children aged six to 14 are impacted by obesity amid poor dietary habits, with over 84% of them regularly consuming salty snacks. To address this urgent dilemma, the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth) has joined forces with the Public Health Ministry and other organisations to spearhead a campaign aimed at fostering healthier eating habits. Dubbed "Don’t Let Children Become Obese," this initiative features a high-profile event held at the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre. This gathering showcased innovative strategies to wean the youth off sweet, fatty, and salty foods, emphasising the consumption of fruits and vegetables. Yanee Ratborirak, acting director of ThaiHealth, outlined the alarming statistics that led to the campaign's urgency. Echoing this concern, Sa-nga Damapong of the Nutrition Association of Thailand praised the initiative, noting its considerable impact over the past five years. He stressed the critical need for media and methods that effectively encourage children to embrace a more balanced lifestyle, integrating both healthy nutrition and increased physical activity. As experts ring alarm bells over childhood obesity, the focus must tilt towards nurturing a cultural shift towards healthier behaviours, involving schools and community stakeholders in this vital endeavour. -- 2025-01-17

Elephant Birth Control Sparks Debate Amid Conservation Concerns File photo for reference only Conservationists have voiced strong opposition to a proposed plan by Thailand's Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment to administer birth control injections to wild elephants. The Soo Phua Chang Network, a leading elephant advocacy group, gathered at the ministry to express their concerns and submit a petition urging for a delay until comprehensive studies validate the contraceptive's effectiveness. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349125-elephant-birth-control-sparks-debate-amid-conservation-concerns/