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Thailand Unveils Bold Tax Reform as VAT Proposal Faces Backlash Photo: The Thaiger In an ambitious move to bolster Thailand's economy, Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira has presented a sweeping tax reform plan designed to increase state revenue and foster development. Unveiled at the Sustainability Forum 2025, the plan's core involves slashing the corporate income tax from 20% to 15%, in line with OECD benchmarks, and possibly reducing the personal income tax cap from 35% to attract global talent. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346356-thailand-unveils-bold-tax-reform-as-vat-proposal-faces-backlash/

Photo: The Thaiger In an ambitious move to bolster Thailand's economy, Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira has presented a sweeping tax reform plan designed to increase state revenue and foster development. Unveiled at the Sustainability Forum 2025, the plan's core involves slashing the corporate income tax from 20% to 15%, in line with OECD benchmarks, and possibly reducing the personal income tax cap from 35% to attract global talent. However, a proposed VAT increase from 7% to as high as 15% has sparked significant public concern. Critics, including economist Athiphat Muthitacharoen, argue this would disproportionately affect low-income families by elevating living costs. Recognising the backlash, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has distanced the government from the controversial VAT hike, signalling it may not proceed. With fiscal pressures mounting—interest on government debt could exceed 14% of revenue due to borrowing—Athiphat calls for a fair, holistic tax reform. He points out that salaried workers bear most of the tax burden, despite a small portion of the population contributing. Support for the corporate tax cut is strong among business leaders like Sanan Angubolkul, who see it as a way to revive employment and reduce costs. Nonetheless, doubts remain about its necessity given existing BoI incentives, with industry voices cautioning against rising production costs sparked by VAT changes. As debate ensues, there's a clear emphasis on tailoring the tax system to ensure fairness and sustainability, reflecting the diverse economic landscape while remaining competitive globally. -- 2024-12-16

Thailand Set to Fully Roll Out Nationwide Healthcare by 2024 File photo for reference only The Health Ministry has announced the ambitious expansion of Thailand's "30 Baht for Healthcare Anywhere" programme, set to reach every province by the close of 2024. Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin confirmed yesterday that the initiative currently covers 46 provinces, with efforts in motion to integrate the remaining 31. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346355-thailand-set-to-fully-roll-out-nationwide-healthcare-by-2024/

File photo for reference only The Health Ministry has announced the ambitious expansion of Thailand's "30 Baht for Healthcare Anywhere" programme, set to reach every province by the close of 2024. Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin confirmed yesterday that the initiative currently covers 46 provinces, with efforts in motion to integrate the remaining 31. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is scheduled to inaugurate the nationwide expansion on 25 December at Government House, underscoring a pivotal moment in the nation's healthcare transformation. This expansion is not merely about geographical reach; it's a leap towards integrating digital health technologies. New digital referral systems are in place, designed to streamline public health services, facilitating a seamless healthcare experience for citizens. Originating from its initial concept of a 30 baht fee, the programme has developed into a truly universal coverage system. Patients can now access services across multiple locations without any direct costs, a considerable enhancement from the scheme's early days. Future reforms are on the horizon, with plans to bolster biosafety measures, enhance long-term healthcare for the ageing populace, and improve referral mechanisms. The government’s healthcare strategy marks a revolutionary step in providing universal health coverage, leveraging technology and strategic initiatives to revamp Thailand’s healthcare landscape. -- 2024-12-16

Holy smokes! Runaway monks in love go from robes to rogues By Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 8 Police arrested two former monks fleeing from a temple in the Isaan province of Khon Kaen to the central province of Ratchaburi after their secret relationship was exposed and were implicated in operating an embezzlement scheme and a mule account. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346354-holy-smokes-runaway-monks-in-love-go-from-robes-to-rogues/

Photo via Channel 8 By Petch Petpailin Police arrested two former monks fleeing from a temple in the Isaan province of Khon Kaen to the central province of Ratchaburi after their secret relationship was exposed and were implicated in operating an embezzlement scheme and a mule account. Locals in the Ban Haet district of Khon Kaen contacted highway police and reported that two monks, 24 year old Anupong and 24 year old Anusorn, were living in the same accommodation and secretly engaging in sexual activity. Highway police coordinated with local officers supervising the area and discovered that the two monks were subject to arrest warrants. Anupong was wanted for operating a mule account while Anusorn was wanted for embezzlement. Police raided the accommodation within the temple to arrest the two monks but they were alerted and managed to escape. Further investigation revealed that the pair travelled to Ratchaburi province to work on a sugarcane plantation. Police later found the couple on the roadside in Ratchaburi province. They attempted to flee again but were unsuccessful. Anupong eventually admitted to his criminal actions. He now faces imprisonment for one year and six months, according to the court’s verdict. Anusorn also confessed to the embezzlement, explaining that he rented a motorcycle but refused to return it to the owner. The suspect claimed he was too afraid to return the vehicle because it was damaged in an accident. While officers were arresting the two former monks, another man, identified as 20 year old Jakkaphan, continued to cry. He told police that he was a relative of the two suspects. Police requested to check his ID card and discovered that he was wanted on three arrest warrants, leading to his detention. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-16

Bangkok man caught stealing 1,100-litre water tank By Ryan Turner Photo via KhaoSod A man was caught attempting to steal a 1,100-litre stainless steel water tank in Taling Chan, Bangkok, with plans to sell it to a junk shop. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346353-bangkok-man-caught-stealing-1100-litre-water-tank/

Photo via KhaoSod By Ryan Turner A man was caught attempting to steal a 1,100-litre stainless steel water tank in Taling Chan, Bangkok, with plans to sell it to a junk shop. Police received a report about the incident early yesterday morning, December 15, leading to the arrest of 62 year old Prasert Jitthamphong, who was found with the stolen tank and a blue tricycle cart at the scene. Police were alerted by a resident who witnessed the theft occurring around 5.24am. The resident’s wife heard unusual barking from their dog near the front of their home, prompting them to investigate. Looking out from their property, they spotted Prasert wearing a navy long-sleeve t-shirt and blue jeans, attempting to haul the large water tank onto his cart. The house where the incident occurred was undergoing renovations and was unoccupied at the time. Concerned about their safety, the couple refrained from confronting Prasert immediately, fearing he might be armed. They observed him leaving the alley with the cart, prompting them to check whether anything had been stolen from the property. Upon discovering the tank was indeed missing, they swiftly tracked down Prasert, finding him resting on a pavement nearby with the stolen tank still on his cart. The couple then identified themselves as the owner of the property and contacted the police. During questioning, Prasert admitted to the theft, stating that he intended to sell the tank to a scrap shop on Suan Phak Road. The police, having taken him into custody, informed Prasert that he would be charged with nighttime theft from a dwelling. The case has been handed over to the Taling Chan police station’s investigation officers for further legal proceedings, reported KhaoSod. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-16

Grilling the corrupt: Pattaya vows to clean up squid scandal By Bob Scott Picture of Deputy Mayor Wuttisak Reumkitcharoen courtesy of Amarin TV In a sizzling showdown, the Pattaya deputy mayor has sworn to weed out corruption among city officials extorting grilled squid vendors, promising severe consequences for those found guilty. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346352-grilling-the-corrupt-pattaya-vows-to-clean-up-squid-scandal/

Picture of Deputy Mayor Wuttisak Reumkitcharoen courtesy of Amarin TV By Bob Scott In a sizzling showdown, the Pattaya deputy mayor has sworn to weed out corruption among city officials extorting grilled squid vendors, promising severe consequences for those found guilty. At the crack of dawn today, December 16, Pattaya City Special Affairs officers swooped in on a group of street vendors illegally peddling their goods on Soi Pattaya Tai 15, right by the bustling entrance to Walking Street in Nongprue subdistrict, Bang Lamung district, Chon Buri province. Among those nabbed was 23 year old Nicha (surname withheld), a grilled squid vendor caught in the net. Fuming yet resigned, Nicha spilled the beans to reporters, revealing her discontent over being apprehended. She alleged that some officials had been pocketing monthly fees in return for allowing her to sell in the lucrative location, with the audacity to demand free food as well. This time, the arresting officers were a different crew from those previously on the take. Nicha accepted her fate but vowed to expose the corrupt official who leached off her, ready to finger him for a formal investigation, reported Amarin TV. Deputy Mayor Wuttisak Reumkitcharoen minced no words about Pattaya City’s no-nonsense policy prohibiting street vending in the Walking Street area at night. He backed up the bans, citing tourists’ gripes that vendors cramp travel flow and tarnish the area’s image, tasking officials to make sure vendors toe the line. In light of vendors’ explosive claims of money and goods extortion by crooked officials, Wuttisak has come out swinging, promising to dole out severe penalties, up to outright dismissal, if wrongdoing is verified. It’s all part of his mission to uphold fairness and polish Pattaya City’s gleaming image. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-16

Siblings flee drug-addicted father only to be targeted by rapist By Petch Petpailin Photo via KomChadLuek Four siblings escaped their drug-addicted father in the central province of Chai Nat only to encounter a man posing as a saint who offered help and later attempted to rape the eldest girl. They were eventually rescued by police in Chon Buri. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346351-siblings-flee-drug-addicted-father-only-to-be-targeted-by-rapist/

Photo via KomChadLuek By Petch Petpailin Four siblings escaped their drug-addicted father in the central province of Chai Nat only to encounter a man posing as a saint who offered help and later attempted to rape the eldest girl. They were eventually rescued by police in Chon Buri. Officers from Nong Yai Police Station shared the siblings’ story with the media. They are now safe and are being cared for by the Chon Buri Provincial Social Development and Human Security Office at a shelter for children and families in the province. One of the siblings gave an interview to Channel 7, stating that they escaped their home in Chai Nat because they could no longer endure physical abuse from their drug-addicted father. The four then met a man who offered support and invited them to stay at his home. They accepted and went with him. Unfortunately, they had to escape again a few days later because this false saint sexually assaulted the eldest girl and attempted to rape her. The eldest girl contacted a friend living in Chon Buri and asked if she could stay with her. The friend was willing to help but the friend’s parents allegedly refused to help. The four siblings then walked along the street with no clear destination until they met Police Officer Wanlop Thasanathanapong. Wanlop told the media that he was patrolling when he came across the siblings by the roadside. He stopped to speak with them and took them to the police station after learning of their tragic situation. The report does not mention the siblings’ mother, or their ages or names. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-16

Thai hospital checks out of universal healthcare gold card scheme By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of National Health Security Office Mongkutwattana Hospital slammed the brakes on accepting outpatients under Thailand’s universal healthcare scheme, famously dubbed the gold card, as financial woes grip the facility. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346349-thai-hospital-checks-out-of-universal-healthcare-gold-card-scheme/

Picture courtesy of National Health Security Office By Bob Scott Mongkutwattana Hospital slammed the brakes on accepting outpatients under Thailand’s universal healthcare scheme, famously dubbed the gold card, as financial woes grip the facility. The shock move, spearheaded by director Riengthong Nanna, took effect on Friday, December 13 with the hospital shutting its doors to gold card outpatients. The heart of the matter? Alleged unpaid dues by the National Health Security Office (NHSO) that are making the hospital’s balance sheet bleed. The hospital claims a staggering 44 million baht is owed by the NHSO for outpatient referrals stretching back to March, said Riengthong. “Continuing to service these patients would send us into financial oblivion.” Riengthong recounted a similar debacle back in 2020, when the hospital was forced to take legal action over a debt of 13.2 million baht. Despite ongoing courtroom drama with no end in sight, Mongkutwattana is drawing a line in the sand, refusing to accept more outpatients unless they cough up cash or the NHSO pays up. Riengthong hinted at a possible split from the NHSO next year if the stalemate drags on. But NHSO is singing a different tune. Deputy Secretary-General Atthaporn Limpanyalert refuted claims of unpaid bills, stating the NHSO has a budget in place for hospital payments but acknowledged the tangled web of Mongkutwattana’s finances. The earlier 13.2 million baht debt stemmed from a clinic linked to Mongkutwattana, which lost its NHSO contract due to financial mismanagement in 2020, leaving the NHSO unable by law to cover its debts, Bangkok Post reported. The fresh 44 million baht debt remains in limbo as the NHSO dives deeper into outpatient data in Bangkok. A hefty 2.1 billion baht audit request from various clinics, plus another financial probe into a 1.2 billion baht pocket, has seen the NHSO freeze payments in their tracks, said Atthaporn. “Payments are paused due to these investigations.” However, to ease the strain, the NHSO has forked out a hefty 60 million baht advance, handed over to the hospital yesterday. Should Mongkutwattana stick to its guns and stop outpatient referrals, the NHSO is ready to reroute patients to other hospitals, including Chulabhorn and Phaet Panya, ensuring no one’s left out in the cold. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-16

Wife Seeks Police Protection, Case Transfer After Councillor's Murder File photo for reference only Napapat Sitthisanitphong, widow of late former Prachin Buri provincial councillor Chaimet Sitthisanitphong, has requested police protection for herself and her son. Seeking justice in the wake of her husband's murder, she has petitioned for the homicide case to be transferred to the Crime Suppression Division (CSD) from the local authorities. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346156-wife-seeks-police-protection-case-transfer-after-councillors-murder/

File photo for reference only Napapat Sitthisanitphong, widow of late former Prachin Buri provincial councillor Chaimet Sitthisanitphong, has requested police protection for herself and her son. Seeking justice in the wake of her husband's murder, she has petitioned for the homicide case to be transferred to the Crime Suppression Division (CSD) from the local authorities. Arriving at CSD headquarters this morning alongside her lawyer and Atchariya Ruangrattanapong, head of the Help Crime Victims Club, Napapat expressed concerns over their safety due to the alleged involvement of influential local figures in Chaimet's murder. Chaimet had a reported history of disputes with Sunthorn Rawiwan, the mayor of Prachin Buri PAO, though Napapat noted that these disagreements had been resolved peacefully. Despite this, Chaimet met with Sunthorn at his home unarmed, where a fatal shooting subsequently took place. Chaimet was found with 22 gunshot wounds, and an M16 assault rifle was recovered at the scene, intensifying the need for a thorough and impartial investigation. Following the shooting, police detained seven individuals, though it has been reported that two additional people present during the incident remain at large. Napapat's plea underscores a bid for greater transparency and security amid these circumstances. -- 2024-12-13

Bangkok and TikTok Unite to Boost BKK Food Bank Initiative File photo for reference only The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) and TikTok have joined forces to enhance the #BKKFoodBank project, which aims to reduce food waste while supporting vulnerable communities. Launched in 2022, the initiative has ambitiously set out to tackle inequality, ensure food security, and contribute to building a sustainable society. By collaborating with TikTok, the project has significantly broadened its outreach, benefiting from the platform’s massive audience and engaging content approach. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346155-bangkok-and-tiktok-unite-to-boost-bkk-food-bank-initiative/

File photo for reference only The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) and TikTok have joined forces to enhance the #BKKFoodBank project, which aims to reduce food waste while supporting vulnerable communities. Launched in 2022, the initiative has ambitiously set out to tackle inequality, ensure food security, and contribute to building a sustainable society. By collaborating with TikTok, the project has significantly broadened its outreach, benefiting from the platform’s massive audience and engaging content approach. In the past two years, the initiative has made substantial environmental contributions by reducing carbon dioxide emissions by over two million kilograms and establishing Food Banks in all 50 Bangkok districts. Food waste poses a significant challenge in Bangkok, accounting for half of the city's total waste and costing over 7.3 billion baht annually. The project addresses this issue by effectively managing surplus food, distributing over 3.3 million meals to 110,000 vulnerable individuals, and cutting carbon emissions. The collaboration with TikTok has supercharged the project's momentum in the past two months, enabling the distribution of more than 1.1 million meals and further reducing carbon emissions by over 690,000 kilograms. TikTok's Head of Public Policy in Thailand, Chanida Klaiphan, emphasized the platform's dedication to positive social impact, leveraging its top creators to advocate for sustainable food management and community involvement. Currently, 665 convenience stores participate in the initiative, donating surplus food and necessary supplies. These donations are meticulously sorted and stored to meet hygiene standards before being distributed through BKK Food Bank centres across Bangkok. This collective effort brings hope for a more sustainable future while addressing essential needs in the community. -- 2024-12-13

Crackdown on Sukhumvit Beggars Reveals Hidden Wealth File photo for reference only In an effort to improve the image of Thailand, police, alongside officials from the Immigration Bureau and the Homeless People Protection Centre, conducted a crackdown today in Bangkok's Sukhumvit area, rounding up 12 beggars. The operation unearthed unexpected findings, including a Thai national found with 1.3 million baht in cash and bank deposits. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346154-crackdown-on-sukhumvit-beggars-reveals-hidden-wealth/

File photo for reference only In an effort to improve the image of Thailand, police, alongside officials from the Immigration Bureau and the Homeless People Protection Centre, conducted a crackdown today in Bangkok's Sukhumvit area, rounding up 12 beggars. The operation unearthed unexpected findings, including a Thai national found with 1.3 million baht in cash and bank deposits. The group apprehended comprised eight Thai citizens, two Cambodians, a Laotian, and one Burmese national. In a surprising twist, a search of one Thai individual's lodgings unveiled 300,000 baht in cash and a bank book indicating a balance of one million baht. Authorities argue that the presence of beggars negatively impacts the country's image. The rounded-up Thai individuals are now facing legal proceedings at the Lumpini police station. Meanwhile, the foreign nationals will be charged with illegal entry and begging. This operation highlights the complexity of the issue, with some beggars possessing substantial hidden wealth, raising questions about the motivations and operations behind street begging. The authorities continue to address both legal and social implications as part of their broader initiative to enhance the capital's public image. -- 2024-12-13

Bangkok’s new ‘Health Stations’ promise quick, hassle-free care By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Say goodbye to endless queues and tedious hospital visits. The Ministry of Public Health has unveiled its game-changing Health Station initiative, a telemedicine service designed to supercharge universal healthcare in Thailand. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346153-bangkok’s-new-‘health-stations’-promise-quick-hassle-free-care/

Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Say goodbye to endless queues and tedious hospital visits. The Ministry of Public Health has unveiled its game-changing Health Station initiative, a telemedicine service designed to supercharge universal healthcare in Thailand. Debuting at the Charoenchai Housing Cooperative Community in Bangkok, these futuristic kiosks let residents consult doctors via video calls for 42 medical conditions, dramatically cutting waiting times and hospital congestion. With plans to roll out 50 stations across Bangkok before expanding nationwide, this initiative is set to revolutionise access to healthcare. Equipped with state-of-the-art communication tools and vital sign measurement devices, the Health Station empowers users to perform basic health checks and get immediate results. Each station can handle up to 72 patients daily, averaging six consultations per hour. Users can opt for home-delivered medications or pick them up from participating pharmacies. “The Health Station is an innovative addition to the universal healthcare system,” said officials, highlighting its collaboration between the National Health Security Office and private partners. Not only does it make medical services more accessible, but it also reduces costs for treatments, medications, and travel. Community members play a vital role in maintaining the kiosks to ensure they stay operational. This sense of shared responsibility is crucial for the project’s long-term success. The government is keen on transforming the national health security system, leveraging this tech-forward approach to enhance the quality of life for citizens. By integrating cutting-edge solutions into public healthcare, Thailand is setting an example for the region in modern medical accessibility, reported Pattaya Mail. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-13

Phuket noise dispute turns violent with two injured in gunfire By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Phuket City Police A noise complaint at a rental property in Phuket Town erupted into violence, resulting in injuries to both the landlord and tenant after a gun was discharged during a scuffle. The incident unfolded yesterday, December 12, drawing attention to the ongoing tensions between the two parties. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346152-phuket-noise-dispute-turns-violent-with-two-injured-in-gunfire/

Picture courtesy of Phuket City Police By Bright Choomanee A noise complaint at a rental property in Phuket Town erupted into violence, resulting in injuries to both the landlord and tenant after a gun was discharged during a scuffle. The incident unfolded yesterday, December 12, drawing attention to the ongoing tensions between the two parties. Phuket City police responded to the disturbance on Phatthanakan Soi 2 around 5pm, yesterday, December 12. Emergency personnel from the Phuket Kusoldharm Foundation and Vachira Phuket Hospital attended the scene, where they discovered the injured landlord and tenant. The 41 year old landlord, Soros Chitchiew, sustained a wound to his right eye socket, while the tenant, Phanupong Sae-Tae, known as Bank, was shot in the left leg. Both victims received immediate medical assistance before being transferred to Vachira Phuket Hospital for further treatment. Soros explained that the altercation began when he and his wife visited Room 5 to address complaints about excessive noise during nighttime hours. He noted that Phanupong had previously displayed threatening behaviour and had been asked to leave the premises on multiple occasions. The situation escalated when Phanupong allegedly became aggressive, involving his relatives in the dispute. Soros, who legally owns a firearm, carried the weapon as a safety measure. During the confrontation, a struggle ensued over the gun, leading to its accidental discharge and injuring the tenant’s leg. Suhaila Hawe, Soros’s wife, portrayed the tenant as troublesome, claiming other residents found him intimidating due to inappropriate actions, such as staring at women. She mentioned that their attempts to address the issues with Phanupong were met with hostility, culminating in the violent episode. Phuket City Police Chief, Police Colonel Pratuang Phonmana, confirmed that law enforcement arrived within 10 minutes of the initial call and detained Soros. Preliminary findings suggest the incident was a spontaneous outburst from an escalating dispute. Police confiscated four firearms from Soros’s home, including the 9mm Sig Sauer pistol used in the shooting. Police are currently verifying the registration status of all the firearms involved, reported The Phuket News. The investigation continues, with officers examining evidence and taking statements from both parties to ascertain the full context of the altercation. Both Soros and Phanupong remain hospitalised, and legal charges are anticipated based on the investigation’s findings. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-13

Thai minibus driver rapes passenger after tricking her into lucky ritual By Petch Petpailin Photo via KhaoSod A Thai minibus driver raped a female passenger after tricking her into performing a ritual for good fortune, and then abducting her to a hotel in Pattaya. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346150-thai-minibus-driver-rapes-passenger-after-tricking-her-into-lucky-ritual/