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Thai Bride's Dowry Lost in Temple Mishap: 100k Baht Gone File photo for reference only In an unfortunate event yesterday, a Thai bride-to-be, identified as Prapassorn, lost a significant portion of her wedding dowry — around 100,000 baht in gold and cash — at Sa Prasan Sook Temple in the province of Ubon Ratchathani. The incident occurred when she momentarily left her bag unattended in the temple's bathroom, a decision that led to the theft. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349354-thai-brides-dowry-lost-in-temple-mishap-100k-baht-gone/

File photo for reference only In an unfortunate event yesterday, a Thai bride-to-be, identified as Prapassorn, lost a significant portion of her wedding dowry — around 100,000 baht in gold and cash — at Sa Prasan Sook Temple in the province of Ubon Ratchathani. The incident occurred when she momentarily left her bag unattended in the temple's bathroom, a decision that led to the theft. The mishap unfolded as Prapassorn, amidst preparations for her wedding set for today, opted to visit the temple. During her visit, she used the unisex bathroom, leaving her bag on the floor. It wasn’t until she had departed only to meet her mother, about 20 minutes later, that she realised her oversight and returned to the temple. Despite finding her bag still in place, the valuables had disappeared. Prapassorn immediately alerted the Mueang Ubon Ratchathani Police, who quickly arrived at the scene. Due to the temple's heavy foot traffic — spurred by the presence of the renowned late monk Luang Pu Boonme Chotipaolo's ashes — identifying potential suspects has posed a challenge. Authorities are currently examining CCTV footage from the vicinity in hopes of discerning any clues leading to the perpetrator. The theft casts a shadow over what was meant to be a joyful celebration, with no word yet on whether the wedding will proceed in light of the financial setback. Local news outlets report that the victim remains hopeful and is cooperating fully with the police as investigations continue. -- 2025-01-20

Chiang Mai Tackles PM2.5 Pollution with Ambitious Five-Year Strategy File photo for reference only Chiang Mai is taking bold steps to tackle the persistent PM2.5 pollution, with a comprehensive five-year strategy launched at a recent workshop on January 13 and 14. Organised by the Office of the Science Promotion Commission alongside Chiang Mai authorities, the gathering emphasised the urgent need for research and innovation to combat hazardous air quality. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349353-chiang-mai-tackles-pm25-pollution-with-ambitious-five-year-strategy/

File photo for reference only Chiang Mai is taking bold steps to tackle the persistent PM2.5 pollution, with a comprehensive five-year strategy launched at a recent workshop on January 13 and 14. Organised by the Office of the Science Promotion Commission alongside Chiang Mai authorities, the gathering emphasised the urgent need for research and innovation to combat hazardous air quality. Governor Nirat Phongsitthaworn underscored the significance of research in devising effective tools to address this pressing issue. He called for cooperative efforts, leveraging data systems and innovative strategies, to mitigate the pollution affecting every resident in the region. An eight-goal strategy, spearheaded by Professor Doctor Sirirerk Songsiwilai, was proposed to make northern Thailand safer by 2026, particularly targeting the elimination of PM2.5 pollution in the upper north. Around 130 million baht will be invested in mitigating Chiang Mai's pollution for fiscal years 2023 and 2024, with a considerable increase to 450 million baht planned by 2025, extending successful measures across the region. The plan outlines objectives such as capping PM2.5-affected days to just 50 annually, reducing initial COPD admissions due to dust below 1,000 each year, and cutting down unauthorised hotspots to 4,000 annually. Dr. Banthoon Setthasirote emphasised research-driven legal frameworks, highlighting structural roots rather than legislative dependencies alone. A pivotal Clean Air Management Act is in the pipeline, focusing on decentralisation and shared management responsibilities, supported by economic measures and research. Former Chiang Mai deputy governor, Thosapon Phueng-udom, called for precise strategies and innovations to ensure the plan's efficacy and budgetary alignment. The province has already achieved a significant 34% reduction in hotspots in 2023, with a 47% decrease in burnt areas, a 24% reduction in days exceeding air quality standards, and a 74% fall in first-time COPD admissions. Notably, research uncovered that 40% of the dust crisis stems from cross-border pollution, underscoring the necessity for regional cooperation. Chiang Mai’s ambitious path forward demonstrates a commitment to cleaner air and healthier communities through vigilant research, strategic funding, and collaborative innovation. -- 2025-01-20

Half of Thailand's Debt Relief Applicants Fail to Meet Criteria File photo for reference only Amidst Thailand's mounting household debt crisis, the freshly launched 'You Fight, We Help' debt relief programme is witnessing an unexpected hiccup. Despite a rush of applications, many hopeful borrowers are ineligible for support. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349352-half-of-thailands-debt-relief-applicants-fail-to-meet-criteria/

File photo for reference only Amidst Thailand's mounting household debt crisis, the freshly launched 'You Fight, We Help' debt relief programme is witnessing an unexpected hiccup. Despite a rush of applications, many hopeful borrowers are ineligible for support. Introduced by the Bank of Thailand, this scheme allows eligible borrowers to pause interest payments for three years and adopt a more manageable debt repayment plan. Yet, merely a month post-launch, it appears clarity surrounding the programme's criteria has become a significant hurdle. Kris Chantanotoke, CEO of Siam Commercial Bank, revealed that several applicants do not fulfil the basic eligibility requirements, sparking a review of the bank's communication strategies. Mr Chantanotoke emphasised the bank's commitment to genuine support while acknowledging the steep learning curve during the programme's nascent stage. Statistics from the central bank show that out of 461,029 applications, only half gained approval. This disparity highlights a widespread misunderstanding in the applicant pool concerning eligibility, specifically regarding debt default periods. The debt initiative offers temporary relief to those with various loans, aiming to curb Thailand's soaring household debt-to-GDP ratio, which approached 90% last year. Loans considered under the scheme include mortgages, car loans, and small business loans, provided borrowers defaulted on repayments for fewer than 356 days. Financial leaders like Sakchai Peechapat of Tisco Financial Group report high rejection rates, as only 30% of their applicants qualify. Meanwhile, Kiatnakin Phatra Financial Group's CEO, Aphinant Klewpatinond, mentions that half of their applicants faced eligibility issues, primarily due to misunderstandings of the scheme's terms. The banks are now making efforts to clarify the conditions and plan to maintain standard debt collection proceedings for non-qualifying applicants. How this corrective approach will affect future applications remains to be seen, but the programme's success hinges on clear communication and defined processes. -- 2025-01-20

Thailand's Auto Industry Faces Crossroads: BEVs or ICE Transition? File photo for reference only Thailand's car production industry, crucial to its economy, is at a crossroads: whether to invest in battery electric vehicles (BEVs) or transition the internal combustion engine (ICE) sector towards electric vehicles (EVs). The decision, under the purview of the National EV Policy Committee spearheaded by the Prime Minister, weighs heavily on the country's automotive future, especially with a new seven-year support plan for the ICE industry. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349351-thailands-auto-industry-faces-crossroads-bevs-or-ice-transition/

File photo for reference only Thailand's car production industry, crucial to its economy, is at a crossroads: whether to invest in battery electric vehicles (BEVs) or transition the internal combustion engine (ICE) sector towards electric vehicles (EVs). The decision, under the purview of the National EV Policy Committee spearheaded by the Prime Minister, weighs heavily on the country's automotive future, especially with a new seven-year support plan for the ICE industry. In an attempt to ease into the electrification process, the government has announced reduced excise tax on hybrid vehicles. This move aims to benefit local and international players, particularly Japanese companies like Honda and Toyota, which have historically utilised Thailand as an ICE production hub. However, concerns are brewing that this tax strategy might inadvertently hinder the country’s EV ambitions. The policy set on December 1 outlines reduced excise tax rates for hybrid EVs and mild hybrids, initiating a shift to cleaner mobility solutions. The tax will vary based on carbon emissions, with incentives for investments in local component production. Companies must invest significantly to qualify for these benefits, aligning with Thailand's goal to foster locally sourced parts. Hybrids offer a transitional bridge, especially given infrastructure shortcomings concerning EVs. Yet, criticisms arise over a seven-year advantage granted to Japanese keystone manufacturers, potentially decelerating technological progress. Thailand’s burgeoning EV market, showing a 12-13% annual growth, competes with robust Chinese NEV production. While Thailand remains a production base for Chinese EVs, it pales against China's output. However, the established local supply chain, aligned with governmental support, positions Thailand strategically within the ASEAN automotive sector. Navigating these industry and policy challenges is vital for Thailand's aspirations in the global EV movement, necessitating a delicate balance between supporting existing industries and pioneering future transportation. -- 2025-01-20

Thai Rice Export Policy Overhaul: Support and Challenges Highlighted File photo for reference only In a significant shift aimed at rejuvenating Thailand's rice export market, Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan unveiled new policy reforms after a key meeting. These changes, aiming to provide greater opportunities for farmers and dismantle existing monopolies, have generally been well received by the export community. Yet, the seasoned Thai rice exporter Chookiat Ophaswongse points out that while the adjustments are promising, particularly for small businesses, considerable obstacles remain before these businesses can fully leverage international market opportunities. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349349-thai-rice-export-policy-overhaul-support-and-challenges-highlighted/

File photo for reference only In a significant shift aimed at rejuvenating Thailand's rice export market, Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan unveiled new policy reforms after a key meeting. These changes, aiming to provide greater opportunities for farmers and dismantle existing monopolies, have generally been well received by the export community. Yet, the seasoned Thai rice exporter Chookiat Ophaswongse points out that while the adjustments are promising, particularly for small businesses, considerable obstacles remain before these businesses can fully leverage international market opportunities. The new measures, part of updates to the 1946 Rice Trading Act, are set to take effect by the end of January. They will ease stock requirements, exempting farmer groups and cooperatives entirely and reducing the burden on small businesses. A significant highlight is the lowered export permit fees, making the process less financially onerous for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Despite these positive strides, Chookiat underscores persistent challenges such as identifying viable export markets and securing essential working capital. To ensure the policy reaches its full potential, he advocates for government assistance in facilitating access to low-interest funding, which could significantly boost SMEs' capacity to participate effectively in the rice trade. Pichai also announced plans for revising the rice export permit fee structure. Once implemented, certain fees will be slashed, favouring SMEs and reducing their financial barriers. These revisions are expected to go through necessary approvals, with a final decision anticipated by March. Looking ahead, the government envisions a completely liberalised rice market, free of stock requirements and permit fees, to empower SMEs further. This ambition aligns closely with ongoing diplomatic efforts, as Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra plans a visit to China to expedite rice delivery agreements, underscoring Thailand's commitment to strengthening international trade relationships. -- 2025-01-20

Theft at Add Carabao’s daughter’s home incurs 100,000 baht loss By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A theft at the under-construction home of Nenicha Opakul, daughter of renowned singer Yuenyong Opakul, more commonly known as Add Carabao, resulted in losses estimated at over 100,000 baht. The incident, reported by Nenicha’s legal representative, Melita, is under police investigation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349348-theft-at-add-carabao’s-daughter’s-home-incurs-100000-baht-loss/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod By Bright Choomanee A theft at the under-construction home of Nenicha Opakul, daughter of renowned singer Yuenyong Opakul, more commonly known as Add Carabao, resulted in losses estimated at over 100,000 baht. The incident, reported by Nenicha’s legal representative, Melita, is under police investigation. Today, January 20, Phuvanes Viviekhatkan, a deputy investigator at Pravet Police Station, received a report about the theft. The crime took place at a residence on Soi Krungthep Kreetha 8, Yaek 10, Huamak, Bang Kapi district, Bangkok, yesterday, January 19, at 3.59pm. Surapong Putthakhao, head investigator at Pravet Police Station, instructed patrol and investigation teams to examine the scene, revealing a large, two-storey house still under construction. The stolen items included a single-lever washbasin tap priced at 6,023.70 baht (US$175), a shower set with hose for 9,554.50 baht (US$277), two high-lever washbasin mixer taps valued at 8,322.60 baht (US$240), and a wall-embedded lever water mixer valve set costing 4,698.70 baht (US$136). Among the more costly items was a freestanding bathtub mixer priced at 37,429 baht (US$1,088), bringing the total estimated loss to 111,945.32 baht (US$3,254). According to Melita, the theft likely occurred between January 18 and January 19, from approximately 9pm to 7am. The theft was discovered by a site worker who conducted a routine check of the property. On January 18, after 7am, some items were already reported missing, prompting further checks on January 19, leading to a formal police report, reported KhaoSod. Surapong stated that the investigation is ongoing, and the police have been directed to arrange further inspections of the missing items. Evidence collection and CCTV footage analysis are underway to apprehend the suspect. The police are keenly working to gather additional evidence to track down and prosecute the perpetrator. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-20

Fake monk’s act doesn’t pass the vest test in Khon Kaen By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Amarin TV A man dressed as a monk was detained by police in Khon Kaen after residents reported suspicious behaviour. The alleged monk claimed he found methamphetamine on the roadside and consumed it. He also stated he was genuinely ordained but had not yet received official documentation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349347-fake-monk’s-act-doesn’t-pass-the-vest-test-in-khon-kaen/

Picture courtesy of Amarin TV By Bright Choomanee A man dressed as a monk was detained by police in Khon Kaen after residents reported suspicious behaviour. The alleged monk claimed he found methamphetamine on the roadside and consumed it. He also stated he was genuinely ordained but had not yet received official documentation. Today, January 20, a report surfaced about a man resembling a monk, wearing sunglasses and a wool hat, walking along Mittraphap Road in the Khon Kaen municipality area. The man was seen crossing the road to a U-turn point controlled by a tunnel system before heading towards the mouth of the tunnel near a petrol station. Local police officers, upon receiving a tip-off, arrived to investigate. When asked for his monk identification, the man failed to produce any. Further inspection of his belongings, including a bag and a pouch, revealed several foil papers and lighters. Upon removing his hat, it was discovered that he had long hair. Consequently, he was taken to the Khon Kaen City Police Station. While en route, Phra Khru Sumet Thammasan, the abbot of Mak Samran Temple and subdistrict monk dean of Khon Kaen District 3, informed the police about another man in similar attire collecting trash nearby. However, no such individual was found upon investigation. Later, Police Lieutenant Colonel Methine Sriwanna, deputy superintendent of crime suppression at the Khon Kaen City Police Station, questioned the man, who identified himself as 35 year old Detdiao from Ban Kham Hai, Ban Pet subdistrict, Mueang Khon Kaen district. When asked about his impersonation of a monk, Detdiao claimed he was married and had previously been ordained at Wat Pa Chaiwan but had not yet received his certification. The police, however, were sceptical. A urine test confirmed positive for drugs. Detdiao confessed to consuming one methamphetamine pill earlier that morning, claiming he found it by the roadside. The police doubted his story, suspecting he had bought the drug from a dealer, though none was found on him, reported KhaoSod. Detdiao was taken to the police station for further investigation and charged with consumption of a Category 1 drug (methamphetamine) and violating Section 208 of the Penal Code, which states that anyone who dresses or uses symbols indicating they are a monk or religious figure unlawfully, to deceive others, may face up to one year in prison, a fine of up to 20,000 baht (US$580), or both. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-20

Thai cop blames exhaustion after crashing into 2 motorcycles, injuring 3 By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ เจ๊ม้อย v+ A Thai police officer in the southern province of Narathiwat blamed work-related exhaustion after crashing his sedan car into two motorcycles, resulting in three injuries. One of the victims is in critical condition. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349346-thai-cop-blames-exhaustion-after-crashing-into-2-motorcycles-injuring-3/

Photo via Facebook/ เจ๊ม้อย v+ By Petch Petpailin A Thai police officer in the southern province of Narathiwat blamed work-related exhaustion after crashing his sedan car into two motorcycles, resulting in three injuries. One of the victims is in critical condition. The accident was reported to officers at Chanae Police Station at about 5.12am on Saturday, January 18. The suspect, who was wearing a police T-shirt, identified himself as a deputy superintendent of the station. His vehicle sustained damage to its front bumper. Two motorcycles were damaged in the collision, with debris from the vehicles scattered across the road. CCTV footage shared by Channel 8 revealed that the driver of the saloon car failed to stop after the crash, prompting locals to pursue him. A Thai man and his son, who were travelling on one of the motorcycles, sustained chest injuries. A second man, riding another motorcycle, was seriously injured. One witness recorded a video as he and other locals managed to stop the officer. In the footage, the witness accused the officer of drunk driving, a claim which the officer denied. The officer also insisted that he did not attempt to flee the scene. Chanae Police Station later confirmed via its official Facebook page that the driver was indeed an officer from the station, although his position and rank were not disclosed. The statement revealed that the officer did not flee the scene and exited his vehicle to engage with witnesses and victims. However, it was explained that the officer returned to the police station for his safety, as he was surrounded by angry locals at the scene of the accident. The police statement did not mention whether the officer had been subjected to an alcohol test, which led to criticism from netizens. Some commenters demanded further clarification, while others expressed disbelief, claiming the CCTV footage clearly showed the officer attempting to flee. There were no updates provided on the conditions of the three victims in the report. The officer may face charges under Section 390 of the Criminal Law, which pertains to reckless driving causing injury. If found guilty, the penalty could be up to one month in prison, a fine of up to 10,000 baht, or both. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-20

Thailand bets big on casino boom under entertainment banner By Bob Scott Police swoop on an illegal gambling den in Nonthaburi. Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post 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. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349345-thailand-bets-big-on-casino-boom-under-entertainment-banner/

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/