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Trang Airport Contract Terminated; Security Fund Seized Amid Delays File photo for reference only The Airports Department has officially terminated its contract with Port and Marine Corporation (PAM) due to delays and deficiencies in the construction of a new passenger terminal at Trang Airport, southern Thailand. This decisive action resulted in the confiscation of PAM's security deposit amounting to 53 million baht. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345765-trang-airport-contract-terminated-security-fund-seized-amid-delays/

File photo for reference only The Airports Department has officially terminated its contract with Port and Marine Corporation (PAM) due to delays and deficiencies in the construction of a new passenger terminal at Trang Airport, southern Thailand. This decisive action resulted in the confiscation of PAM's security deposit amounting to 53 million baht. The decision, sanctioned by Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri, was announced by Director General Danai Ruangsorn. The Transport Ministry emphasised the necessity to swiftly identify an alternate contractor, aiming to meet the March 2025 deadline for the terminal's completion. Meeting this deadline is crucial to accommodating the growing influx of arrivals at Trang Airport. Issues with the former contractor included severe rain leaks damaging ceilings and a lack of security leading to theft of power cables. Images of the infrastructure damage circulated widely, fuelling public concern. In response, the department has deployed additional security personnel to the site and Trang police have since apprehended those responsible for the thefts. A committee formed on November 21 is charged with assessing the damage and preparing for a new contractor. With a 45-day timeline set, this task force is pivotal in keeping the project on track. Danai remains optimistic, voicing confidence that despite setbacks, the department is committed to the 2025 completion date. The terminal stands as a significant upgrade to Trang Airport's facilities, pivotal for bolstering tourism and improving the passenger experience. -- 2024-12-09

Private Sector Opposes Uniform 400-Baht Minimum Wage Proposal File photo for reference only The private sector has voiced significant concerns over the government's proposal to implement a fixed minimum wage of 400 baht across Thailand, fearing potential negative repercussions for businesses. Sanan Angubolkul, chairman of the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking, emphasised today that the minimum wage should account for the distinct economic conditions of each province. He urged the Tri-partite Wage Committee to respect the suggestions made by the provincial wage subcommittees, advocating against a one-size-fits-all approach. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345764-private-sector-opposes-uniform-400-baht-minimum-wage-proposal/

File photo for reference only The private sector has voiced significant concerns over the government's proposal to implement a fixed minimum wage of 400 baht across Thailand, fearing potential negative repercussions for businesses. Sanan Angubolkul, chairman of the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking, emphasised today that the minimum wage should account for the distinct economic conditions of each province. He urged the Tri-partite Wage Committee to respect the suggestions made by the provincial wage subcommittees, advocating against a one-size-fits-all approach. Sanan clarified that while the private sector supports initiatives to enhance workers' livelihoods through wage adjustments, a uniform rate could misalign with economic variations nationwide. He cited that a vast majority of provincial subcommittees—around 90%—consider the proposed 400-baht wage as disconnected from regional realities. In light of global economic uncertainties, including geopolitical tensions and climate change, increasing the minimum wage to a flat rate could elevate production costs, diminishing the competitiveness of Thai products on the international stage. This move could adversely affect vital sectors like agriculture and services, potentially leading to job losses or even business failures. Sanan called on the National Wage Committee to provide compelling justification for the nationwide wage proposal. Rather than a blanket wage increase, the private sector suggests aligning pay with skill levels, advocating for improved skill development among Thai workers to better meet various industry needs. -- 2024-12-09

Thai Ministry Urges Nationals to Avoid Travelling to Syria Amid Unrest File photo for reference only The Thai Foreign Ministry has advised its citizens against non-essential travel to Syria following the recent overthrow of President Bashar Assad's government by opposition rebels. The Thai Embassy in Tehran, responsible for Syria, has reached out to the 23 Thai nationals present there since the turmoil began on December 8, assuring that all are safe for now. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345763-thai-ministry-urges-nationals-to-avoid-travelling-to-syria-amid-unrest/

File photo for reference only The Thai Foreign Ministry has advised its citizens against non-essential travel to Syria following the recent overthrow of President Bashar Assad's government by opposition rebels. The Thai Embassy in Tehran, responsible for Syria, has reached out to the 23 Thai nationals present there since the turmoil began on December 8, assuring that all are safe for now. Most of these individuals reside in Damascus, with one based in Daraa, near Jordan. The group includes masseurs, students, and people married to Syrians. The embassy is poised to assist in evacuation processes if necessary. Constant monitoring and communication with Thai nationals remain a priority for the embassy, and they are encouraging those in Syria to remain informed about developments and restrict their travel within the country. This proactive stance demonstrates Thailand's commitment to safeguarding its citizens amidst the ongoing political upheaval. -- 2024-12-09

Thailand Boosts Rice Innovation with 'Rainbow' Rice to Outshine Rivals File photo for reference only Thailand's rice industry is taking innovative steps to enhance its global standing amid lower yields compared to major Asian producers. The country faces a notable gap, with average rice yields at 400 to 500 kilogrammes per rai, starkly contrasted by Vietnam and China's yields exceeding 1,000 kilogrammes per rai. Despite this disparity, Thailand aims to capitalise on its famed jasmine rice and niche varieties to rewrite its narrative in the global rice market. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345762-thailand-boosts-rice-innovation-with-rainbow-rice-to-outshine-rivals/

File photo for reference only Thailand's rice industry is taking innovative steps to enhance its global standing amid lower yields compared to major Asian producers. The country faces a notable gap, with average rice yields at 400 to 500 kilogrammes per rai, starkly contrasted by Vietnam and China's yields exceeding 1,000 kilogrammes per rai. Despite this disparity, Thailand aims to capitalise on its famed jasmine rice and niche varieties to rewrite its narrative in the global rice market. The Department of Rice plans to elevate the status of Thai rice through targeted marketing and creative agricultural zoning. By promoting coloured and indigenous rice varieties, officials hope to tap into niche markets and position these products as luxury items. High-value rice varieties, such as coloured rice, only make up 5 to 10% of Thailand’s production but have gained popularity, particularly in China, for their unique health benefits. In a move to increase appeal, seven new varieties of coloured rice, collectively known as 'rainbow rice', are set for a 2024 debut. These varieties, featuring an array of vibrant colours, will be creatively planted in fields, forming captivating designs to attract tourists and increase awareness. Partnerships with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) will see these rice patterns integrated into tourism campaigns. Beyond aesthetics, coloured rice farming offers promising financial prospects. Farmers can tap into various income streams, from selling protein-rich leaves to producing animal feed, providing significant economic benefits. The Department of Rice is actively encouraging this practice, especially in the Mukdahan province, to meet burgeoning demand. While yields for traditional rice varieties might lag behind regional counterparts, Thailand's inventive strategies demonstrate a determined pivot towards quality and uniqueness to capture the attention of affluent markets, thus shaping a new narrative for Thai rice on the international stage. -- 2024-12-09

Bangkok braces for current affairs as power outages hit home By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post In a move that’s set to ignite frustration, the Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA) announced a slew of planned power outages sweeping across Bangkok and its neighbouring areas over the next two days. These interruptions, part of an essential maintenance blitz, are designed to bolster the city’s electricity network with greater efficiency and reliability. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345761-bangkok-braces-for-current-affairs-as-power-outages-hit-home/

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post By Bob Scott In a move that’s set to ignite frustration, the Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA) announced a slew of planned power outages sweeping across Bangkok and its neighbouring areas over the next two days. These interruptions, part of an essential maintenance blitz, are designed to bolster the city’s electricity network with greater efficiency and reliability. The disruptive energy cuts crackled into action today, December 9, already darkening several key areas. Starting from 8.30am to midday, parts of Ratchadapisek Road, stretching from Soi Ban Kong Iet to the PT fuel station, have been plunged into powerlessness. It’s a similar scene in Burasiri village on Bang Khun Thian-Chai Thale Road, where a longer blackout from 8.30am to 3.30pm looms over the community. Song Prapha Road is seeing its own blackout drama, with a shutdown between Soi Song Prapha 30 and the Chalermprakiet 80 Pansa garden junction in Samut Prakan. Elsewhere in the city, Punna Withi Road has seen power pulled from 9am to 1pm, hitting the Sukhumvit 101’s The Gentry project. These outages are not just inconvenient; they’re part of MEA’s strategy to keep the city’s grid safe and secure. Brace yourself for more darkness tomorrow, December 10. Power lines in Samut Prakan will go cold along Praeksa Road, near Ngow Jiab Thai Company, from 8 am to 5 pm. King Kaew Road in Bangkok will also lose its current from 8.30am to 3pm, impacting businesses like VR Water Systems and the World Gas station. Back in Bangkok, Charoen Sanitwong Road, especially around Soi Charoen Sanitwong 57/3, along with adjacent shophouses, will be powerless from 8.30am to 1pm. Nonthaburi power Nonthaburi isn’t spared either, with Krung Non-Chong Thanom Road losing power from 8.30am to 3.30pm, affecting Ratirom 3 Village and Dream Town Village. Theparak Road in Samut Prakan will also face a blackout from Soi Rewat entrance to Soi Thewa 3 entrance during the same hours. Further south in Samut Prakan, Pracha Uthit Road faces a blackout from 8.30am to 4.30pm, affecting the stretch from Soi Kaeo Sukho to Ban Lang Soi. King Kaew Road will again be dimmed from 9.30am to 3pm, echoing today’s affected areas. Such power plays are all part of the MEA’s grand plan to safeguard the region’s electricity infrastructure, critical to supporting the area’s growing energy appetite, said a spokesperson. “By conducting these upgrades, we aim to ensure a more robust and reliable power supply.” Residents are urged to prepare and minimise inconvenience by planning ahead for these outages. This maintenance marathon highlights a much larger commitment by the MEA to ensure Bangkok and the surrounding locales remain powered up and on track, KhaoSod reported. Regular infrastructure tune-ups are the key, not just to ward off unscheduled outages but also to heighten the quality of service for all customers reliant on their power supply. By flicking the switch on these updates, MEA is betting on a future where power blackouts become the exception rather than the rule, igniting a sustainable and steady flow of energy to fuel the lighting, heating, and cooling needs of every home and business. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-09

2 Thai boys arrested for shooting girl, mistaking her for an enemy By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ ลุง ชุมชัย แก้วแดง Police arrested two Thai boys who mistakenly shot a 15 year old girl in the head on a road in the Phra Phrom district of Nakhon Si Thammarat province last night, December 9, believing her to be their rival. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345760-2-thai-boys-arrested-for-shooting-girl-mistaking-her-for-an-enemy/

Photo via Facebook/ ลุง ชุมชัย แก้วแดง By Petch Petpailin Police arrested two Thai boys who mistakenly shot a 15 year old girl in the head on a road in the Phra Phrom district of Nakhon Si Thammarat province last night, December 9, believing her to be their rival. Officers from Phra Phrom Police Station launched an investigation into the attempted murder, which took place around midnight on Jang Hoon-Na Pru Road. Rescuers from the Pracha Ruamjai Foundation provided first aid at the scene to the victim, identified as 15 year old Piyada Kongmueng. Piyada sustained a gunshot wound to the head. She was immediately rushed to Maharaj Nakhon Si Thammarat Hospital, where she remains in critical condition. According to police, Piyada had been travelling to a nearby convenience store with five friends on two motorcycles, and the incident occurred close to her home. Piyada was riding with three friends on one motorcycle and was seated at the back. When they reached the location of the attack, Piyada began feeling nauseous and asked to stop. The group pulled over, and Piyada got off the motorcycle to vomit while two male friends urinated nearby. Suddenly, two suspects arrived on a dark blue motorcycle without a registration plate. The passenger pulled out a pistol and shot Piyada before fleeing the scene. None of her friends were targeted or harmed during the attack. Police apprehended two suspects, aged 13 and 14, earlier this morning. According to KhaoSod, one of the suspects was the ex-boyfriend of one of Piyada’s friends. The suspects reportedly intended to kill the friend’s new boyfriend but mistakenly shot Piyada due to the darkness. Given their ages, the suspects will be questioned in the presence of their parents and child protection specialists. Details of the charges against them have not yet been released. Piyada remains in a critical condition at the hospital as police continue their investigation. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-09

Window w*nker: Barber’s indecent exposure leaves wife in a snip - video By Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 8 A Thai woman expressed shock and fear after discovering that her husband had been masturbating in front of passersby through the clear window of his barber shop in the central province of Ang Thong. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345759-window-wnker-barber’s-indecent-exposure-leaves-wife-in-a-snip-video/

Photo via Channel 8 By Petch Petpailin A Thai woman expressed shock and fear after discovering that her husband had been masturbating in front of passersby through the clear window of his barber shop in the central province of Ang Thong. Victims of the man’s lewd behaviour sought justice by contacting a Thai news agency and sharing explicit videos of him with the media. Channel 8 broadcast the footage, showing the man wearing a grey shirt and masturbating in full view of the public through the clear window of his barbershop. The incidents occurred at the man’s barbershop, which is situated near Ang Thong Technical College. Many students, passersby, and local business operators reportedly witnessed his explicit acts on multiple occasions. Fearing he might escalate to more serious actions, witnesses eventually decided to record videos of the man and share them with the media. A 40 year old woman, Noi, who owns a shop opposite the barbershop, told the media that the man would masturbate whenever he had no customers. He would face the window while engaging in the act, leaving her feeling frightened. Noi added that she was not the only person to witness the lewd behaviour, as many students from the nearby college also saw it. She and other witnesses reported the matter to the police in addition to sharing it with the media. The suspect’s wife later gave an interview to Channel 7 about the incident. She said she had only recently become aware of her husband’s actions and was deeply shocked upon seeing the video. She also expressed fear of her husband and apologised to the community on his behalf. Officers from Mueang Ang Thong Police Station visited the barbershop and issued a warning to the suspect, stating that they would arrest him if he repeated the offence. Noi told Channel 7 that the suspect’s wife personally apologised to her. She expressed sympathy for the man’s wife and children and urged the family to seek mental health treatment for him to prevent further incidents. The family has not disclosed whether they plan to pursue mental health treatment for the man. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-09

Thailand throws ‘baht’ at impact study of 10,000-baht handouts By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post In a bid to decipher the ripple effects of Thailand’s 10,000-baht cash handout scheme, the Finance Ministry launched an exhaustive survey. This deep dive, spanning 40,000 participants, aims to unravel the true impact of this financial initiative on the economy and society as a whole. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345758-thailand-throws-‘baht’-at-impact-study-of-10000-baht-handouts/

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post By Bob Scott In a bid to decipher the ripple effects of Thailand’s 10,000-baht cash handout scheme, the Finance Ministry launched an exhaustive survey. This deep dive, spanning 40,000 participants, aims to unravel the true impact of this financial initiative on the economy and society as a whole. Finance Permanent Secretary Lavaron Sangsnit promises findings by the month’s end. “This survey uses a large sample size to ensure the results reflect the true impact of the programme, helping to determine whether it is a worthwhile initiative.” Lavaron added the groundbreaking nature of this analysis that seeks to go beyond the usual conjecture. Suan Dusit University has been roped in to independently scrutinise the spending habits of recipients, while the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce assesses the scheme’s impact on entrepreneurs. To bolster the survey’s accuracy, the ministry, alongside the National Economic and Social Development Council, plans to merge findings with data from the concurrent population census by the National Statistical Office. Digital wallet drop Originally, the handout targeted anyone over 16 through a one-time digital wallet drop. However, criticism around its economic sense and legal framework, particularly from the sceptical Bank of Thailand, led to a reevaluation. The central bank had argued for a more honed approach, directing funds to those really in the lurch. In response, the government tightened the criteria: only those with a monthly income under 70,000 baht or savings below 500,000 baht qualify. The phased rollout kicked off with state welfare cardholders registering through the Tang Rat app, covering a whopping 14.4 million people. With a budget of around 144 billion baht, cash distribution started in September. By November’s end, 1.44 million individuals had pocketed their baht boost. However, a stumbling block remains—75,400 eligible recipients still haven’t completed vital steps, like linking their PromptPay accounts. These dawdlers have until December 19 to wrap up the process or forfeit this financial lifeline, according to ministry stipulations. As the dust settles on this study, the pressing question remains: is the government’s 10,000-baht splash truly a flash of brilliance, or just cash going down the drain? With findings soon to come, the Finance Ministry hopes to illuminate the handout’s success—or failure—and guide future financial strategies with clearer foresight. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-09

Thai Police Arrest Suspected Drug Boss with Weapons, Meth Stash File photo for reference only In Thung Song, Thailand, police captured a suspected drug leader in a major local narcotics crackdown. The 39-year-old man, named Pairat, was arrested at a rented location in tambon Pak Phraek, along with an M16 assault rifle, 95 rounds, and 111 methamphetamine pills. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345757-thai-police-arrest-suspected-drug-boss-with-weapons-meth-stash/

File photo for reference only In Thung Song, Thailand, police captured a suspected drug leader in a major local narcotics crackdown. The 39-year-old man, named Pairat, was arrested at a rented location in tambon Pak Phraek, along with an M16 assault rifle, 95 rounds, and 111 methamphetamine pills. Police Lieutenant Colonel Jaratchote Boonplong, leading the investigation, called it a significant strike against the drug trade. Pairat has been under police scrutiny for years, allegedly managing a vast drug operation in Nakhon Si Thammarat and Surat Thani. Authorities also seized three mobile phones, signaling a complex communication network. Pairat reportedly confessed to ordering up to 20,000 meth pills at a time for distribution. Thai police are now investigating the rifle's source and tracking Pairat’s network to dismantle the drug syndicate threatening Southern Thailand. This highlights both the challenges in tackling drug trafficking and the Thai police's relentless fight for justice. -- 2024-12-09

Boxer's Mysterious Death After Prison Match Spurs Family's Quest for Answers File photo for reference only The family of 27-year-old boxer Jirayu is demanding answers after his unexpected death following a boxing match at Rayong Central Prison in Thailand. Jirayu fell ill and lost consciousness about an hour after fighting in a sports event on December 5. Despite being rushed to Ban Khai Hospital, he died two days later. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345756-boxers-mysterious-death-after-prison-match-spurs-familys-quest-for-answers/

File photo for reference only The family of 27-year-old boxer Jirayu is demanding answers after his unexpected death following a boxing match at Rayong Central Prison in Thailand. Jirayu fell ill and lost consciousness about an hour after fighting in a sports event on December 5. Despite being rushed to Ban Khai Hospital, he died two days later. His wife, 26-year-old Suchada, questions the cause of his death, noting the injuries don't match typical boxing wounds, especially when gloves were used. She's seeking the release of event footage and a thorough investigation. Prison officials have started an inquiry into the incident. However, an autopsy has been delayed, as the hospital's operating room needed cleaning after handling an infected body. Suchada was able to submit her husband's documents but must wait for the autopsy results. Suchada and Jirayu's mother, 57-year-old Sunan, both plan to pursue further action if the results are unclear. Sunan, doubting that boxing caused her son's injuries, is pressing the prison for transparency and any available CCTV footage to resolve the matter. -- 2024-12-09

Teacher Accused of Misconduct Towards Students Sparks Outrage File photo for reference only In Buriram province, a male teacher faces allegations of inappropriate behavior towards several fourth-grade girls. Parents complained that the teacher's misconduct occurred when students made mistakes in their homework. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345755-teacher-accused-of-misconduct-towards-students-sparks-outrage/

File photo for reference only In Buriram province, a male teacher faces allegations of inappropriate behavior towards several fourth-grade girls. Parents complained that the teacher's misconduct occurred when students made mistakes in their homework. The situation gained attention through a social media post urging an investigation. Concerned parents filed a complaint with local police, leading to mediation efforts instead of direct legal action. This decision has drawn significant public criticism, especially since the case involves minors under 13. Parents of the affected students, including Kai, 47, Nok, 31, and Aoi, 32, reported incidents to deputy inspector Udonsak at Prakhon Chai Police Station. Allegations include the teacher's inappropriate actions, such as removing a student's sweatpants and lifting a student's skirt, occurring during the first semester. Additional reports claim the teacher persuaded male students to put grass in a female student's mouth and attempted inappropriate contact in a private room. Despite these allegations, no substantial disciplinary measures have been taken, leading to concerns due to the teacher's connection to the school principal. When questioned, principal Samran acknowledged the accusations and noted that the school was informed on December 6. He stated the teacher was removed from the school premises, and the educational district was alerted. Samran described the teacher as quiet and popular with students, suggesting that the interactions might have been playful, though he admitted such actions were inappropriate. While defending the teacher's character, Samran confirmed ongoing investigations to fully understand the situation. -- 2024-12-09

Thailand Birth Rate Nosedives: 81% Drop Surpasses Japan File photo for reference only Thailand has been propelled to the forefront of global concerns as it emerges among the top three countries facing the steepest decline in birth rates, now surpassed only by South Korea and China. Over a span of 74 years, Thailand has recorded an alarming 81% decrease, outstripping even Japan in this demographic shift, according to the latest Global Statistics report, based on United Nations Population Division data. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345754-thailand-birth-rate-nosedives-81-drop-surpasses-japan/

File photo for reference only Thailand has been propelled to the forefront of global concerns as it emerges among the top three countries facing the steepest decline in birth rates, now surpassed only by South Korea and China. Over a span of 74 years, Thailand has recorded an alarming 81% decrease, outstripping even Japan in this demographic shift, according to the latest Global Statistics report, based on United Nations Population Division data. The report's revelations spotlight significant demographic shifts within the country, raising red flags about future population stability and economic consequences. Thailand's newfound ranking, third among 80 countries with the greatest drop, highlights an urgent need to address underlying causes driving this phenomenon. Economic conditions, environmental pollution, and broader living conditions have created an environment where Thais are increasingly opting out of parenthood. Analysts are pointing to a blend of factors at play, with patriarchal societal pressures and economic uncertainties being cited as common threads among nations experiencing similar trends. Additionally, concerns over younger generations exposed to pollution and poor diets are believed to further impact Thailand's birth rate. The figures from Thailand reflect a larger global pattern, signalling socio-economic and environmental influences as contributing factors to dwindling birth rates worldwide. As dialogues unfold on platforms like X, once known as Twitter, the conversation broadens, recognising this as a multifaceted global issue with potentially profound implications on future economic and population landscapes. -- 2024-12-09

British man commits suicide, leaving sand messages for Thai wife By Petch Petpailin Photo via MGR Online A British man left messages in the sand for his wife and children before taking his own life on Cha-am Beach in the southern province of Phetchaburi. He was reportedly distressed over two legal cases and a 400,000-baht loss to a friend. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345751-british-man-commits-suicide-leaving-sand-messages-for-thai-wife/