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Thailand's New 300-Baht Tourism Tax: Aid or Hindrance? Photo courtesy of TrueID Travel Thailand is poised to roll out a new 300-baht tourism tax on foreign visitors by year's end, catching the attention of travellers and industry experts alike. The Tourism and Sports Minister, Sorawong Thienthong, confirmed the expected launch during the nation's bustling High Season, contingent on its approval in the Royal Gazette by March. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353070-thailands-new-300-baht-tourism-tax-aid-or-hindrance/

Photo courtesy of TrueID Travel Thailand is poised to roll out a new 300-baht tourism tax on foreign visitors by year's end, catching the attention of travellers and industry experts alike. The Tourism and Sports Minister, Sorawong Thienthong, confirmed the expected launch during the nation's bustling High Season, contingent on its approval in the Royal Gazette by March. This tax, applicable to all entering tourists, aims to provide life and accident insurance, enhancing visitor safety. Arrivals by air will incur a 300-baht fee per person per trip, while those by land or water will pay the same with allowances for multiple entries over a period of 30 to 60 days. To simplify the process, the fee will be tied to the impending Thailand Digital Arrival Card, set for a May debut. Sorawong reassured that the tax wouldn't pose a significant deterrent if implemented smoothly, emphasising its role in bolstering infrastructure and services. Critics, however, fear administrative headaches and inconvenience, particularly for frequent land and water travellers. Yet, Sorawong insists the government's streamlined integration efforts with the TDAC will ease any potential friction. Initially paused under ex-Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who sought to achieve an annual tourism revenue of 3 trillion baht, the current administration sees the levy as a sustainable boost for the sector. While embassies express support, the tax's real-world impact remains a subject of vigorous debate in international travel circles, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-27

Opposition Files No-Confidence Motion Against Thai Prime Minister Photo courtesy of The Nation Amid rising political tensions, Opposition Leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut has sparked a fiery political debate by submitting a no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Criticising her for alleged incompetence and corruption, the motion filed under Section 151 of Thailand’s Constitution, aims to shake the foundation of Paetongtarn's leadership. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353069-opposition-files-no-confidence-motion-against-thai-prime-minister/

Photo courtesy of The Nation Amid rising political tensions, Opposition Leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut has sparked a fiery political debate by submitting a no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Criticising her for alleged incompetence and corruption, the motion filed under Section 151 of Thailand’s Constitution, aims to shake the foundation of Paetongtarn's leadership. Natthaphong, heading the People's Party, has accused the Prime Minister of failing to manage the coalition government effectively. Highlighting Thailand’s dwindling economic performance, he argued, “The prime minister lacks the knowledge and the resolve to tackle national issues." He further accused Paetongtarn, 38, of appointing ministers based on political loyalties rather than merit. A major point of contention is Paetongtarn’s supposed allowance of her father, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, to influence government matters. Natthaphong questioned her independence as a leader, citing her reliance on subordinates, a potential dereliction of duty. This motion also focuses on alleged corruption, with Natthaphong vowing to reveal government mismanagement during a no-confidence debate, which could test the coalition’s endurance. House Speaker Wan Muhamad Noor Matha acknowledged receipt of the motion, noting that it would undergo a procedural review within seven days. Any necessary amendments would be made before being presented to the government. The much-anticipated censure debate is set for March 24, with discussions on format and timing ongoing. First Deputy Speaker Pichet Chuamuangphan will manage the debates, with the Speaker expressing optimism for a productive discourse beneficial to the public and political entities. Amid speculation that Thaksin might organise a response, the Speaker clarified that the censure debate is an internal matter among MPs and ministers, with legal avenues open to any external parties mentioned. As politicians ramp up for the debate, the nation watches closely to see whether Paetongtarn will weather this storm or if it will mark a significant shift in Thailand’s political landscape, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-27

Thai Police Crack Down on Chinese-Run SIM Card Fraud Photo courtesy of Thai PBS In a strategic raid on February 26, Bangkok police dismantled a sophisticated Chinese-operated SIM box scam operating out of a condominium in the Bang Sue district. Under the leadership of Police Lieutenant General Surapol Prembutr, a joint task force raided the apartment at 11:30 am, seizing equipment used for financial scams. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353066-thai-police-crack-down-on-chinese-run-sim-card-fraud/

Photo courtesy of Thai PBS In a strategic raid on February 26, Bangkok police dismantled a sophisticated Chinese-operated SIM box scam operating out of a condominium in the Bang Sue district. Under the leadership of Police Lieutenant General Surapol Prembutr, a joint task force raided the apartment at 11:30 am, seizing equipment used for financial scams. The room's registered owner, a Chinese national using a Thai nominee, had installed three SIM boxes capable of housing 32 SIM cards each, along with a CCTV camera for discreet surveillance. The operation was executed by Region 1 Investigation Police, Immigration Police Division 1, and Tao Poon Police Station. The swift action followed a complaint from a victim in Mueang Udon Thani who was tricked into sending 180,000 baht, believing it was needed to clear their name in a fabricated money laundering case. Working in collaboration with Udon Thani police, investigators tracked the fraudulent activity back to the Bangkok condo. DNA and fingerprint evidence were collected from the scene, and all confiscated items are now at Tao Poon Police Station for further analysis. According to ongoing investigations, the equipment had been installed for about three months as part of the scam network to defraud unsuspecting victims. Legal proceedings are underway to hold those responsible accountable, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-27

Bang Lamung Gets Tough on Crime: Cracking Down on Nightlife Picture courtesy of Your Guide to Thailand Bang Lamung district officials are ramping up their efforts to curb illegal activities and improve safety in the area's bustling nightlife scene. On February 26, officials gathered for a crucial meeting at the Alcazar Cabaret, focusing on enforcing laws against underage entry, drug use, human trafficking, and illegal firearms. The district aims to ensure that entertainment venues remain safe and maintain a reputable image. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353065-bang-lamung-gets-tough-on-crime-cracking-down-on-nightlife/

Picture courtesy of Your Guide to Thailand Bang Lamung district officials are ramping up their efforts to curb illegal activities and improve safety in the area's bustling nightlife scene. On February 26, officials gathered for a crucial meeting at the Alcazar Cabaret, focusing on enforcing laws against underage entry, drug use, human trafficking, and illegal firearms. The district aims to ensure that entertainment venues remain safe and maintain a reputable image. A key part of the new initiative targets the employment of minors, controlling excessive drinking, and enforcing a strict ban on firearms, with exceptions only for on-duty police officers. Venues caught selling alcohol past closing hours can expect to face prompt penalties. To aid businesses in complying with these regulations, Bang Lamung will introduce "License Month," a program designed to help venues sort out their required documentation by November. Officials also warned against any illicit activities, particularly those involving individuals falsely claiming ties to the district and demanding bribes. They encourage anyone who encounters such scams to report them to the police immediately. Further demonstrating their unyielding stance, Bang Lamung police conducted a successful operation in Naklua over the weekend. On February 15, during a raid focused on illegal foreign workers, officers arrested four individuals who were working illegally in the area. Among them, two were found to have overstayed their visas by six years. The district's message is clear: they are determined to eliminate illegal activities and ensure a secure and enjoyable nightlife environment for visitors and residents alike, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-27

Major E-Cigarette Seller Arrested in Chiang Mai Sting Operation Photo courtesy of เชียงใหม่ CM108 ข่าวเชียงใหม่ จังหวัดเชียงใหม่ In Chiang Mai, police have nabbed an online e-cigarette seller raking in daily revenues of 10,000 baht, amounting to over 300,000 baht each month. The arrest took place at 1 pm on February 26 at Project 89 Plaza in Mueang district. Undercover officers from the Special Operations Division 5 set up a sting operation, buying a device for 390 baht from Kiatchai Panyatham, 28, who was then swiftly arrested. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353064-major-e-cigarette-seller-arrested-in-chiang-mai-sting-operation/

Photo courtesy of เชียงใหม่ CM108 ข่าวเชียงใหม่ จังหวัดเชียงใหม่ In Chiang Mai, police have nabbed an online e-cigarette seller raking in daily revenues of 10,000 baht, amounting to over 300,000 baht each month. The arrest took place at 1 pm on February 26 at Project 89 Plaza in Mueang district. Undercover officers from the Special Operations Division 5 set up a sting operation, buying a device for 390 baht from Kiatchai Panyatham, 28, who was then swiftly arrested. The clampdown stems from a directive by Police Lieutenant General Kritthaphon Yee-sakhon to curb illegal sales of e-cigarettes in the area. Authorities traced the activity to a Facebook page, "MY POD WHERE," engaged in sales across Chiang Mai and Lamphun provinces. Through a LINE ID linked to the same name, they managed to place and confirm an order. A subsequent search of Kiatchai’s residence in Lamphun led to the discovery of 1,269 e-cigarettes and cartridges, worth around 349,200 baht. Police found 338 units in his Honda Civic and additional stock at his home. Kiatchai, involved in the trade for five months, admitted sourcing products from a LINE contact named Ban Lovebird (NEW), with supplies mainly coming from Bangkok. He faces charges under the Customs Act of 2017 and the Consumer Protection Board’s ban on e-cigarettes. This crackdown highlights the ongoing effort to regulate illegal e-cigarette sales in the region, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-27

Noise Complaint Escalates to Gun Threat in Thai Dorm - video Screenshot from อยากดังเดี๋ยวจัดให้ รีเทริน์ part 7 Facebook video In Uttaradit province, a tranquil Monday night was violently disrupted when an angry, gun-wielding neighbor pounded on a woman's door, accusing her of making too much noise while cleaning her bathroom. The CCTV footage from February 24 captures the terrifying episode, unraveling at 9:50 p.m., and leaving the woman deeply shaken. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352980-noise-complaint-escalates-to-gun-threat-in-thai-dorm-video/

Screenshot from อยากดังเดี๋ยวจัดให้ รีเทริน์ part 7 Facebook video In Uttaradit province, a tranquil Monday night was violently disrupted when an angry, gun-wielding neighbor pounded on a woman's door, accusing her of making too much noise while cleaning her bathroom. The CCTV footage from February 24 captures the terrifying episode, unraveling at 9:50 p.m., and leaving the woman deeply shaken. The video depicts a shirtless man brandishing a firearm as he menacingly tapped on the door. Despite her refusal to open it, he continued his tirade, shouting obscenities before storming upstairs still clutching his weapon. The woman, bewildered and frightened, was simply preparing to shower after a brief cleaning session. “I was just cleaning the bathroom. I don’t understand why he got so angry,” she lamented, deeply concerned for her safety. “How am I supposed to live in peace when people behave like this? It’s terrifying.” The dormitory owner, who was away, has advised her to report the incident to the police and promised full cooperation with the authorities. “I fully support her and will cooperate with the authorities,” he stated. This alarming event has sparked significant safety concerns among other tenants, who reportedly heard the commotion but were too frightened to intervene. The woman is now uncertain about her future in the dorm, fearing possible retaliation. Local police are investigating to identify the armed individual and ensure the safety of dorm residents. The unsettling occurrence has triggered public outrage, with many urging for tighter security and increased surveillance in residential areas to prevent future incidents, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-26

From Fear to Freedom: Brave Woman Outsmarts Bangkok Intruder - video Photo via Facebook/ Jiraporn Penpat In Bangkok's Nong Chok district, Jiraporn Penpat narrowly escaped an assault after a drunken man entered her home while she showered in an external bathroom. The incident occurred at around 11:30 p.m. on Friday, February 22. Jiraporn forgot to lock the bathroom door, allowing the intruder easy access via a pedestrian bridge along a canal. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352979-from-fear-to-freedom-brave-woman-outsmarts-bangkok-intruder-video/

Photo via Facebook/ Jiraporn Penpat In Bangkok's Nong Chok district, Jiraporn Penpat narrowly escaped an assault after a drunken man entered her home while she showered in an external bathroom. The incident occurred at around 11:30 p.m. on Friday, February 22. Jiraporn forgot to lock the bathroom door, allowing the intruder easy access via a pedestrian bridge along a canal. Initially mistaking the intruder for her boyfriend playing a prank, Jiraporn soon realized the gravity of the situation. The suspect, in underwear and a T-shirt, forced his way into the bathroom and covered her mouth. Drawing on her inner strength, Jiraporn managed to push him away and ran out screaming for help. Startled, the man fled, leaving his jeans, flip-flops, and an unlocked mobile phone behind. By examining the phone's photos, Jiraporn and her boyfriend identified the suspect and, with some neighbors, found him wandering nearby. In a burst of anger, they restrained him and called the police. Jiraporn shared a video of the aftermath on Facebook to raise awareness about home safety. Following this frightening encounter, Jiraporn plans to renovate her home to enhance security, including locking mechanisms on her bathroom door. Although she did not specify the legal repercussions for the suspect, he could face serious charges, including up to 10 years in prison, a fine of 200,000 baht, or both for sexual assault. Additional charges for trespassing are also possible, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-26

Phuket Justice Office Awards Over 900K Baht to Crime Victims Photo courtesy of The Phuket News In a recent initiative, the Phuket Provincial Justice Office approved 911,913.25 baht to compensate 15 victims of crime. This decision was made during a meeting held at Phuket Provincial Hall, chaired by newly elected Provincial Attorney Poolsuk Phengsang on February 24. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352978-phuket-justice-office-awards-over-900k-baht-to-crime-victims/

Photo courtesy of The Phuket News In a recent initiative, the Phuket Provincial Justice Office approved 911,913.25 baht to compensate 15 victims of crime. This decision was made during a meeting held at Phuket Provincial Hall, chaired by newly elected Provincial Attorney Poolsuk Phengsang on February 24. This was the second meeting this year of the Subcommittee on Consideration of Compensation for Victims, which included members from various agencies. The subcommittee examined 19 cases, approving compensation for 15, while one case was set aside for further scrutiny and three applications were denied. Beyond victim compensation, the subcommittee also reviewed requests for legal assistance. Out of four applications, two were approved, providing 103,000 baht in support, while the other two were rejected. One notable applicant, Saowani Sadiyamu, a 40-year-old widow and mother of two from Yala Province now living in Phuket, attended the meeting. After resigning from her teaching job, Saowani has been unemployed, surviving on an 800-baht monthly disability allowance and her savings. Her monthly household expenses total around 15,400 baht, covering essentials like utilities, a motorcycle loan, and medical travel expenses. Saowani seeks 20,000 baht in aid and might qualify for other support programs, although she lacks a state welfare card. Her assets include a Honda motorcycle under loan and a 6-rai, 1-ngan land plot without debts. Phuket's initiative aims to provide justice and assistance to those impacted by crime. "These meetings are essential to ensure that justice is served, and victims receive the financial support they need," said a provincial spokesperson. Officials in Phuket are dedicated to monitoring and assisting victims continuously through robust legal aid and financial assistance programs, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-26

Public Outcry Freezes Controversial Phuket Hotel Project Photo courtesy of The Phuket News In a dramatic turn of events, the Nebu Hotel project in Cherng Talay, Phuket, has been put on hold following mounting pressure from locals worried about its environmental and community impact. The proposed seven-story hotel, planned on a narrow 1,200-square-meter plot, was set in a Yellow Zone, intended for low-density housing, sparking debates over zoning violations and transparency. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352977-public-outcry-freezes-controversial-phuket-hotel-project/

Photo courtesy of The Phuket News In a dramatic turn of events, the Nebu Hotel project in Cherng Talay, Phuket, has been put on hold following mounting pressure from locals worried about its environmental and community impact. The proposed seven-story hotel, planned on a narrow 1,200-square-meter plot, was set in a Yellow Zone, intended for low-density housing, sparking debates over zoning violations and transparency. During a tense site visit, Phuket MP Thitikan Thitipruethikul and members of the House Committee on Land, Natural Resources, and Environment, voiced concerns over the legality of allowing a high-rise in a restricted area. “Yellow Zones should not host high-density projects. This violates zoning laws and could set a dangerous precedent for Phuket,” warned Thitikan. Residents fear the development will worsen traffic, increase flood risks, and lead to excessive noise, particularly from a planned rooftop bar. Concerns also arose over inadequate parking—20 spaces for 89 rooms could lead to traffic nightmares in the already narrow streets. The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) claimed 70% public approval, but locals strongly disagreed, presenting their survey showing 100% opposition. “We just want a proper impact assessment,” a resident insisted. Poonsak Chanchampi, chairman of the House Committee, criticized the zoning inconsistencies and the lack of public hearings in the approval process. “In Bangkok, this wouldn't even be considered due to land size restrictions. Phuket needs consistent rules,” Poonsak argued, suggesting central government oversight to reduce conflicts of interest. In response, Aphichat Deekongsiang of Cherng Talay's OrBorTor agreed to review the EIA and assured no construction permit would be issued until issues are resolved. As public scrutiny grows, a fourth community meeting is planned for March 13, offering locals another chance to express concerns. The House Committee has urgently called for a re-evaluation of the EIA process and a temporary halt on construction, hoping for more transparent urban planning in Phuket’s future, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-26

Hunting Dogs in Phetchabun Protect Garden from Snake Intrusion A dramatic encounter unfolded in Phetchabun, Thailand, when two fearless Jack Russell Terriers defended their garden from an unwelcome visitor. On February 25, a Facebook post went viral after user shared footage of their dogs neutralizing a non-venomous snake. The curious reptile likely slithered in seeking the frogs kept there but soon met its end at the paws of the terriers, named 1 and 3. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352976-hunting-dogs-in-phetchabun-protect-garden-from-snake-intrusion/

A dramatic encounter unfolded in Phetchabun, Thailand, when two fearless Jack Russell Terriers defended their garden from an unwelcome visitor. On February 25, a Facebook post went viral after user shared footage of their dogs neutralizing a non-venomous snake. The curious reptile likely slithered in seeking the frogs kept there but soon met its end at the paws of the terriers, named 1 and 3. Known for their hunting instincts, the two-year-old terriers have tackled over 13 snakes, safely and skillfully ridding their owner's property of these slithery intruders. "The snake screeched, and when I rushed to see, the two dogs had already taken it down," the relieved owner shared in the post. The daring duo quickly became internet sensations, with social media users praising their bravery and talent. One user exclaimed, "Incredible! Those two little ones are amazing," while another noted, "That snake was huge! Are the dogs okay?" The incident took place at a house in 274 Mueang Subdistrict, Wichian Buri District, well-known for frequent snake visits. Fortunately, the heroic terriers ensure a snake-free zone with every encounter, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-26

U-Tapao Airport Scales Down Expansion Amid Rail Delays Photo courtesy of Airport Technology U-Tapao Airport's highly anticipated expansion is being notably scaled down due to persistent delays in the Bangkok-Rayong high-speed rail project. Initially envisioned to accommodate 12 million passengers annually, the plan has been downsized significantly. This change comes as the rail project, critical for passenger connectivity, remains stalled for almost five years, fostering uncertainty. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352974-u-tapao-airport-scales-down-expansion-amid-rail-delays/

Photo courtesy of Airport Technology U-Tapao Airport's highly anticipated expansion is being notably scaled down due to persistent delays in the Bangkok-Rayong high-speed rail project. Initially envisioned to accommodate 12 million passengers annually, the plan has been downsized significantly. This change comes as the rail project, critical for passenger connectivity, remains stalled for almost five years, fostering uncertainty. Keeree Kanjanapas, head of U-Tapao International Aviation (UTA), confirmed that while the airport's development and the Eastern Aviation City initiative will continue, they will proceed on a reduced scale. “We can no longer wait. Instead of litigation, we’ve opted to collaborate with the EEC,” Keeree stated. Originally set to transform the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), the 290-billion-baht project spanned a 6,500 rai area. The delays, resulting from numerous agreement revisions, have led UTA to reconsider the expansion strategy. The new plan might slash the airport's passenger capacity to five million, down from the original 12 million, with the larger Eastern Aviation City project also undergoing re-evaluation. “We’re prepared to move forward once we receive the necessary approvals. We urge the EEC for prompt clarity,” Keeree further expressed, highlighting the importance of the high-speed rail's purpose for investment decisions—be it tourism, international travel, or commuter traffic from Bangkok. UTA CEO Wirawat Panthawangkun emphasized that while their contract allows for adjustments, these won't alter its core terms, seeking flexibility beyond that of the rail agreement. He also questioned what benefits could offset the tunnel beneath the terminal, intended for the rail line, if the train does not materialize. Facing the possibility of proceeding without the rail link, UTA is navigating through uncertainties as the EEC explores potential tax incentives for investors, pending additional legislation from the Finance Ministry. This strategic pivot reflects the firm’s commitment to maintaining the project’s viability amidst unclear future infrastructure developments reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-26

Pension Plan Rejected Over Complexity; Debate Resurfaces in March File photo for reference only The Social Security Fund (SSF) Board recently turned down a new pension formula, citing its complexity. This decision has sparked ongoing debates, especially among the 300,000 insured individuals under Section 39, who once were employees but now self-fund their SSF contributions. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352973-pension-plan-rejected-over-complexity-debate-resurfaces-in-march/

File photo for reference only The Social Security Fund (SSF) Board recently turned down a new pension formula, citing its complexity. This decision has sparked ongoing debates, especially among the 300,000 insured individuals under Section 39, who once were employees but now self-fund their SSF contributions. Associate Professor Sustarum Thammaboosadee, of the Progressive Social Security Team, expressed his disappointment at failing to convince the board. He remains determined, however, to reintroduce the formula in March. The proposed changes aim to adjust pensions for inflation and rising living costs by updating old salary figures. While this would increase SSF expenses, research shows it would not threaten the fund's $2.6 trillion baht sustainability, totaling 60 billion baht over a decade. Earlier approved by a sub-committee, the formula spared the rights of Section 33 employers and employees, factoring in additional contributions from both sides. Despite this, the board insisted on formula revisions before reconsideration. Professor Sustarum suggested the setback might be due to arduous questioning by the formula's proponents. He called for public oversight, highlighting the need for transparency in fund management. As the largest public fund in Thailand, the SSF holds over 2.65 trillion baht and supports 24 million subscribers. With another round of discussions slated for March, the focus remains on ensuring fairness and sustainability in pension provisions, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-26

Thai Stocks Surge as Bank of Thailand Cuts Interest Rate to 2% File photo for reference only In a move to energize Thailand's economy, the Bank of Thailand lowered its key interest rate by 0.25% on Wednesday, responding to government pleas for economic relief and a weaker baht to enhance exports. The Monetary Policy Committee voted 6-1 in favor of reducing the one-day repurchase rate to 2.00%, citing increased economic risks. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352966-thai-stocks-surge-as-bank-of-thailand-cuts-interest-rate-to-2/