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File photo for reference only Thailand's electric vehicle (EV) market is facing significant challenges as major carmakers consider opting out of the government's incentive scheme due to a market slowdown. The Electric Vehicle Association of Thailand (EVAT) suggests that manufacturers might abandon subsidies and reevaluate their production strategies. Launched in 2022, the EV3.0 scheme offers benefits like reduced taxes and subsidies, but requires local assembly by 2024 with specific production targets. Chinese manufacturers have expressed concerns about these requirements, questioning their effectiveness in boosting sales amid economic difficulties, according to EVAT President Suroj Sangsanit. Subsidies under EV3.0 include up to 150,000 baht for electric vehicles under 2 million baht, and 18,000 baht for electric motorcycles priced below 150,000 baht. Automakers must adhere to a strict production rule, manufacturing one locally assembled vehicle for each imported car, increasing to a 1.5 ratio if production starts next year. In October, sales of battery electric vehicles dropped by 49.7% from the previous year to 3,717 units, while traditional car sales fell by 27.8% to 11,562, according to the Federation of Thai Industries. Brands are considering price cuts to boost sales, but such tactics have previously failed as buyers hold out for further reductions. The decision to relax production requirements rests with the National EV Policy Committee. The Federation of Thai Industries is expected to urge the committee to reconsider the rules to aid struggling manufacturers. Despite these hurdles, EVAT predicts sales of 82,000 electric vehicles this year, representing a 14% market share, up from 12% last year, with expectations of reaching 15% next year. As the industry navigates these challenges, the future of Thailand's EV sector remains uncertain. -- 2024-12-06

Thailand Eyes Direct Flights from US Amid Growing Tourist Demand File photo for reference only The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is pushing for direct flights from the United States to Thailand, as local airlines remain hesitant about these routes. This initiative comes after the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) positively assessed Thailand’s aviation safety. The Transport Ministry hopes this will upgrade Thailand from Category 2 to Category 1, allowing Thai airlines to expand into the US market. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345541-thailand-eyes-direct-flights-from-us-amid-growing-tourist-demand/

File photo for reference only The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is pushing for direct flights from the United States to Thailand, as local airlines remain hesitant about these routes. This initiative comes after the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) positively assessed Thailand’s aviation safety. The Transport Ministry hopes this will upgrade Thailand from Category 2 to Category 1, allowing Thai airlines to expand into the US market. Direct flights from Bangkok to Los Angeles by Thai Airways stopped in 2015 due to unprofitability and a downgrade by the FAA. Siripakorn Cheawsamoot from TAT explained that Thai Airways must focus on more profitable routes during its rehabilitation and amid a global aircraft shortage. The US could bring one million visitors to Thailand this year. TAT is in talks with international airlines for direct flights to start by winter 2025 or 2026. Currently, no US airlines offer direct flights to Thailand. Air Canada provides direct flights from Vancouver to Bangkok. TAT is also in discussions with Taiwan’s EVA Air and US carriers Delta and United Airlines. EVA Air already operates direct flights from Europe to Bangkok and might apply a similar model for US routes. The US market could grow to over 1.1 million visitors next year, and US tourists tend to stay longer, contributing significantly to Thailand's economy. To capitalize on this opportunity, TAT will open a new office in Chicago targeting travelers from the Midwest and certain Canadian regions, focusing on affluent tourists and those in the modern agricultural sector. -- 2024-12-06

Rama II Road Construction Halted for Safe New Year Travel File photo for reference only The Transport Ministry is halting construction activities on Rama II Road from December 26 to January 2. This measure aims to facilitate smoother travel for those heading south during the New Year holiday. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345538-rama-ii-road-construction-halted-for-safe-new-year-travel/

File photo for reference only The Transport Ministry is halting construction activities on Rama II Road from December 26 to January 2. This measure aims to facilitate smoother travel for those heading south during the New Year holiday. Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit noted the importance of easing travel on this major route. Additionally, efforts are being made to restore the road surface as much as possible to reduce congestion. Travelers are advised to plan their routes in advance to avoid traffic jams. This suspension follows a crane accident on November 29 at the construction site of the Ekkachai-Ban Phaeo Intercity Motorway 82 (M82) in Samut Sakhon, which resulted in six worker deaths and nine injuries. Minister Suriya has tasked agencies like the Department of Highways and the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand to assess contractor performance. This evaluation will be noted in a Contractor's Notebook, which may lead to the removal of contractors failing to meet safety standards. A fact-finding committee, including the Engineering Institute of Thailand, has been set up to investigate the M82 accident. Results are expected by mid-month. Meanwhile, efforts to clear the accident site are underway, with the removal of concrete segments and dismantling of a steel structure expected to be completed soon. -- 2024-12-06

Ukrainian woman found dead in Krabi hotel with suicide letter By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ มูลนิธิกระบี่พิทักษ์ประชา A Ukrainian woman left a suicide note and took her own life at a hotel room in the southern province of Krabi, a few days before her body was discovered by a hotel maid yesterday, December 5. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345536-ukrainian-woman-found-dead-in-krabi-hotel-with-suicide-letter/

Photo via Facebook/ มูลนิธิกระบี่พิทักษ์ประชา By Petch Petpailin A Ukrainian woman left a suicide note and took her own life at a hotel room in the southern province of Krabi, a few days before her body was discovered by a hotel maid yesterday, December 5. The maid, whose identity was not disclosed, alerted officers from Mueang Krabi Police Station to investigate the room on the fourth floor of the hotel, where she found the lifeless body of 23 year old Ukrainian national Anastasia Kuchma. The hotel, located in Soi Maharat 12 on Maharat Road in Mueang Krabi district, chose not to disclose its name to the public. Upon investigation, police found Kuchma lying face down on the bed. The floor near the bed was covered in blood. She bore no visible wounds and there were no signs of a struggle in the room. Officers estimated she died one to two days prior to being discovered. In the corner of the room, police found two plastic bottles, one of which contained an opaque white liquid. The bottle was sealed with a cotton wool ball instead of a lid. Additionally, two mobile phones, valuables, asthma medication, and a suicide note were found in the room. In one of the notes, Kuchma wrote… “If I am dead, then my plan has succeeded. I sincerely apologise for any inconvenience caused by my actions. If I am not mistaken, the money I have left in this envelope, CHF 1,000 and 1,000 euros (nearly 75,000 baht), should cover cremation and other costs.” Request to conceal cause of death Kuchma also expressed her wish to be cremated, with her ashes scattered at sea or in a natural setting. She specified that she did not want an elaborate funeral or anyone mourning her death. She requested that the true cause of her death not be revealed to her family and expressed her wish not to have her body repatriated to Ukraine. Furthermore, she wished for all her valuables to be donated to charity. The maid told Amarin TV that Kuchma checked into the hotel alone on December 1 and was due to check out yesterday. When she failed to appear at the hotel lobby, the maid went to her room to investigate. Detecting an unpleasant smell emanating from the room, the maid initially thought it was rubbish. She knocked on the door to remind Kuchma about her check-out schedule but received no response. Using a spare key, she entered the room and was shocked to discover the woman’s lifeless body. The maid said she asked rescuers to clean the room as she did not dare to do it herself. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-06

Thai police arrest driver smuggling 18 migrants in Kanchanaburi By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Police conducted a dramatic roadside chase in Kanchanaburi, capturing a Thai driver transporting 18 illegal migrants in a single vehicle. The 29 year old driver was apprehended after attempting to evade police. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345534-thai-police-arrest-driver-smuggling-18-migrants-in-kanchanaburi/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod By Bright Choomanee Police conducted a dramatic roadside chase in Kanchanaburi, capturing a Thai driver transporting 18 illegal migrants in a single vehicle. The 29 year old driver was apprehended after attempting to evade police. The operation began when senior police officers received intelligence about a group smuggling stolen vehicles across the border and illegally transporting foreign workers into Thailand. Responding to the tip-off, law enforcement officers, including Police Major General Khongkrit Lertsitthikul, Police Colonel Phakphon Suchon, Police Lieutenant Colonel Norot Yuwaboon, Police Lieutenant Colonel Krit Theerawetsuwan, and Police Captain Joe Saoprakorn, coordinated a plan to intercept the suspected vehicle. At around 8am, yesterday, December 5, while patrolling a rural road in Singha subdistrict, Sai Yok district, Kanchanaburi province, officers spotted a suspicious black Mazda BT-50 pickup truck with registration number 127 Nakhon Pathom. The vehicle appeared heavily loaded and its rear was covered with a black net, raising suspicions of illicit cargo. Police signalled for the driver to stop for inspection but instead he accelerated, initiating a high-speed pursuit. Officers maintained proximity and called for reinforcements from nearby highway patrol units to assist in the apprehension. After approximately 2 kilometres, the chase concluded when the suspect turned into a dead-end alley in To Mai Daeng Village, Ban Kao subdistrict, Mueang district, Kanchanaburi province. Cornered, the police were able to arrest Chinnakorn Saensikamuan, the vehicle’s driver. A search of the pickup revealed 11 migrants crammed inside the cabin and another seven concealed under luggage and a black net in the truck’s bed. During questioning, Chinnakorn confessed to having picked up the migrants from Sangkhla Buri district, Kanchanaburi province at around 5am, and was en route to deliver them to Mueang Kanchanaburi district, where another party was scheduled to continue their transport, reported KhaoSod. Some of the migrants, who could communicate in Thai, admitted they had entered Thailand through natural border crossings and were seeking employment in Samut Sakhon Province and Malaysia, said Chinnakorn. “I picked up the foreign workers from Sangkhla Buri early in the morning, intending to deliver them to Kanchanaburi City.” Highway police transferred Chinnakorn to the Mueang Kanchanaburi Police Station for formal charges of aiding and abetting illegal immigration. Meanwhile, all 18 migrants faced charges for entering the Kingdom of Thailand without permission. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-06

Woman dies in Nakhon Phanom crash while rushing to sick child By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A tragic accident claimed the life of a woman on a motorcycle who was rushing to visit her sick child in a hospital in Nakhon Phanom. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345532-woman-dies-in-nakhon-phanom-crash-while-rushing-to-sick-child/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod By Bright Choomanee A tragic accident claimed the life of a woman on a motorcycle who was rushing to visit her sick child in a hospital in Nakhon Phanom. The incident occurred when she collided with a garbage truck, leaving her two children orphaned. The 28 year old woman, who had recently lost her husband, was identified as Onpriya. Officers from the Mueang Nakhon Phanom Police Station, along with medical personnel, responded to the scene outside Wat Phra In Plaeng. It was reported that Onpriya’s motorcycle crashed into the back of a parked yellow 10-wheel garbage truck belonging to the Nakhon Phanom municipality. The truck was stationed on Sunthornvichit Road, next to the Mekong River. Onpriya was found severely injured near the driver’s side door of the truck, and despite the efforts of bystanders and emergency responders to revive her, she succumbed to her injuries at the scene. One witness described the attempt to save her, saying, “We tried everything to help but it was too late.” Nearby, about 20 metres from the crash site, lay the wreckage of her red Yamaha R15 motorcycle, which had skidded out of control. The force of the collision was so severe that parts of the motorcycle and her helmet were scattered in different directions. Initial investigations suggest that Onpriya had just finished her part-time job at a local restaurant and was heading towards the hospital to care for her one year old child, who had been ill for several days. Motorcycle collision Surveillance footage captured the moments leading up to the accident. A garbage collector was seen walking into an alley to retrieve a bin while another was on the side of the truck. Hearing the motorcycle’s engine approaching at high speed, the worker attempted to signal Onpriya to change lanes but the warning came too late. The motorcycle struck the side of the truck, causing a loud crash, and Onpriya was thrown under the wheels of the vehicle. Onpriya’s father, Ekachai, a 58 year old school janitor, shared that he had asked his daughter to take over the night watch at the hospital so he could start his early morning shift at school. “My daughter was the second of three children. Her husband died in an accident last year, leaving her with two young kids. “The eldest is a four year old boy in kindergarten, attending the same school where I work. The youngest, a girl, is the one admitted to the hospital. “I told my daughter not to worry about the children and to become an angel in heaven.” The funeral rites for Onpriya are being held at Wat Saraphan Nimit, where her family and colleagues have come together to mourn. Ekachai’s colleagues have pledged to support him by taking turns caring for the orphaned children while he is at work. The municipality responsible for the garbage truck has agreed to cover all related expenses, and the cremation is scheduled to take place tomorrow, reported KhaoSod. The community is abuzz with stories about the accident site, which has witnessed tragic incidents in the past. In June of this year, a bank employee’s car struck and killed a street vendor at the same location. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-06

Twitter personality arrested for 50,000 baht scam impersonation By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A popular Twitter personality with over 30,000 followers was recently apprehended for impersonating a relative to swindle 50,000 baht. She was caught after returning from Malaysia and claimed she only provided OTP codes for small payments. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345531-twitter-personality-arrested-for-50000-baht-scam-impersonation/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod By Bright Choomanee A popular Twitter personality with over 30,000 followers was recently apprehended for impersonating a relative to swindle 50,000 baht. She was caught after returning from Malaysia and claimed she only provided OTP codes for small payments. The arrest took place yesterday, December 5, as Pramote Chanbungkaew, head of Phetkasem Police Station, and his team apprehended 27 year old Mathurin, from Maha Sarakham province. She was arrested under a warrant issued by Thonburi Criminal Court on November 25, at the Sadao Immigration Checkpoint in Songkhla, upon her return from Malaysia. The incident began on April 22, when a 20 year old victim named Natorn reported to the investigators at Phetkasem Police Station. He claimed that a woman, posing as his relative, called him using the number 061-980-xxxx. She claimed she had left her mobile phone at home, which had her banking app, and requested to borrow money to pay for items, promising to return it once she reached home. Trusting her, Notorn transferred 38,000 baht (US$1,115) and an additional 12,000 baht (US$352) to the supposed store owner’s account. Upon contacting the real relative, Notorn discovered she had not made any such request. Realising he had been deceived, he tried calling back the number, only to find it disconnected. Feeling defrauded, Notorn filed a complaint with the police to pursue legal action against the perpetrator. Further investigations led the police to identify the bank account holder as Jariya, who had been previously arrested. Jariya reportedly used a mobile number 062-115-xxxx to facilitate banking transactions and withdrawals. The mobile network provider, Advanced Wireless Network Co., Ltd., confirmed that the number belonged to Mathurin. During the interrogation, Mathurin claimed that she had been contacted and instructed to provide OTP codes received from the bank, promising her a fee of 100 baht (US$3) per code. She admitted to sending the codes twice but stated she had not received the 200 baht (US$6) she was promised. When she tried to follow up, she was blocked by the contact. Mathurin mentioned her trip to Malaysia was to help her aunt by babysitting her niece, and upon returning to Thailand, she was arrested, reported KhaoSod. Reports indicate that Mathurin is a well-known Twitter figure under the alias Level Sore, with over 30,000 followers. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-06

Fishing for freedom: Thai crew released from Myanmar custody By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Four Thai crew members are expected to be released today after being detained in Myanmar. The crew members belong to the Thai fishing vessel S. Charoenchai 8, which was intercepted by Myanmar’s navy. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345529-fishing-for-freedom-thai-crew-released-from-myanmar-custody/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod By Bright Choomanee Four Thai crew members are expected to be released today after being detained in Myanmar. The crew members belong to the Thai fishing vessel S. Charoenchai 8, which was intercepted by Myanmar’s navy. The Royal Thai Navy (RTN) confirmed that all crew members, including the four Thai nationals, are safe and that diplomatic efforts are underway to secure their release. The incident occurred after the Thai vessel was reportedly fired upon by the Myanmar navy. The vessel, with a total of 31 crew members, had been docked at the Burenong Pier in Myanmar. The RTN has been in constant communication with their Myanmar counterparts, coordinating efforts to ensure the safe return of the crew. The Thai-Myanmar Border Coordination Centre (TBC) is actively involved in negotiating the release of the four Thai crew members. “Everyone is safe,” read a statement on the RTN’s Facebook page. Continuous coordination with the Myanmar Navy has ensured the safety of the crew, currently docked at the Burenong Pier. The statement also expressed hope for the release of the Thai crew members later today. Thai officials, including the RTN and Ministry of Foreign Affairs, are working closely with their Myanmar counterparts. Rear Admiral Kanokpol Pimthong, representing the RTN, is involved in the negotiations. The Thai officials submitted an official request for the release of the Thai nationals to the TBC in Myanmar. The four Thai crew members, stationed on the vessel, are undergoing immigration processes in Myanmar. It remains uncertain whether they will face charges, potentially related to illegal entry. The Thai-Myanmar Border Committee in Koh Song will deliberate on this matter before any handover of the crew. The crew members in question are 68 year old Sunan, the ship’s supervisor; 61 year old Sompong, an engineer; 64 year old Thaworn, also an engineer; and 69 year old Wiroj, a crew member. Thai crew If charges are pressed, the Thai crew may face proceedings at the Ranong Immigration Office, which could involve documenting the incident and facing fines at the Ranong Provincial Court. The status of the seized Thai fishing vessel and the 27 Myanmar crew members is also under consideration by Myanmar officials. Decisions are pending on whether the vessel and its crew will be returned to Thailand. In the event of a formal handover, the Thai officials, led by the TBC Ranong and local immigration officials, will travel to Koh Song to officially retrieve the Thai crew members. The Thai Maritime Enforcement Command Centre in Ranong, along with the local immigration office, is prepared for the formalities involved in the crew’s return, reported KhaoSod. This development follows reports from the Thai-Myanmar Local Border Committee, which confirmed that the S. Charoenchai 8 and its crew had reached Koh Song. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-06

Sia Piang released early from prison due to health issues By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of MGR Online Apichart Jansakulporn, widely recognised as Sia Piang, has been released from prison, confirmed by the Department of Corrections (DoC). Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345528-sia-piang-released-early-from-prison-due-to-health-issues/

Picture courtesy of MGR Online By Bright Choomanee Apichart Jansakulporn, widely recognised as Sia Piang, has been released from prison, confirmed by the Department of Corrections (DoC). Initially sentenced to 48 years for his involvement in the rice-pledging scandal, Apichart was granted early release due to severe health issues, having served only seven years of his sentence. The DoC Director General, Sahakarn Phetnarin, stated yesterday, December 5, that Apichart’s release, which occurred yesterday, was a result of his critical illness, and he is currently receiving medical treatment at Ramathibodi Hospital. Notably, he is exempt from wearing an electronic monitoring bracelet during this period. Convicted in 2015 for his role in corrupt government-to-government rice sale deals, Apichart’s original sentence was reduced through multiple royal pardons to 12 years, 8 months, and 12 days. With these reductions, his sentence is now due to conclude on July 27, 2034. Former Democrat Party MP Watchara Phetthong expressed concerns over the transparency of Apichart’s early release. He has taken action by filing a petition with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, calling for a thorough investigation into the DoC’s decision-making process regarding Apichart’s case. He urged the 38 year old prime minister to disclose the findings of this investigation to the public within a 15-day timeframe and stressed the need for accountability among any government officials involved in facilitating the release. Watchara remarked on the lack of public disclosure from the DoC, highlighting the national interest in the case due to its significant financial repercussions on the state. He further questioned whether Apichart had fulfilled all legal and financial responsibilities, including the substantial 16.9 billion baht (US$496 million) compensation with interest, owed by the defendants in the case before his release. The situation surrounding Apichart’s release is part of a broader pattern of early releases of high-profile individuals involved in the rice-pledging scandal. Recent developments include the release of former commerce minister Boonsong Teriyaphirom, who had been sentenced to 48 years but served only seven following royal pardons. Boonsong was granted a suspended sentence and returned to his home in Chiang Mai at the start of this week. Additionally, his deputy, Poom Sarapol, sentenced to 36 years, was released in September after serving seven years, reported Bangkok Post. Observers have speculated that these releases may be linked to broader political strategies, potentially aimed at paving the way for the return of former prime minister Yingluck Shinawatra. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-06

Cop with a cause: Chon Buri officer’s goodwill patrol warms hearts By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Pattaya News For the past eight years, a Chon Buri police officer has been a silent hero, making waves with his goodwill philanthropic gestures across the Klong Phlu subdistrict. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345524-cop-with-a-cause-chon-buri-officer’s-goodwill-patrol-warms-hearts/

Picture courtesy of Pattaya News By Bob Scott For the past eight years, a Chon Buri police officer has been a silent hero, making waves with his goodwill philanthropic gestures across the Klong Phlu subdistrict. Leading the Nong Yai police patrol, Wallop Tasanathanapong has been spending his own hard-earned cash to bring relief to bedridden patients and struggling families who need a helping hand. Month after month, as soon as his pay cheque clears, Wallop hits the shops for essentials: adult nappies, milk, rice, and blankets. His patrol car doubles as a delivery van, stacked with supplies he doles out during his village visits. Those down on their luck have found solace in his unexpected gifts of rice, dry goods, and other lifesavers. Ek, whose mother has felt the warmth of Wallop’s generosity, can’t praise him enough. “His dedication to us is something else. My mother speaks highly of Wallop’s unwavering kindness.” Every year, like clockwork, Wallop spreads festive cheer with gifts and blankets, easing the winter bite. It’s a ritual that reinforces his bond with local folks, showing he’s more than just a cop, he’s one of them. Having patrolled Nong Yai with devotion, Wallop has fostered unwavering ties with residents. His empathy for the ailing and impoverished stems from his own gritty tales of struggle. In a chat with local reporters, Wallop revealed his driving force: with each taxpayer-funded salary, he opts to channel kindness to the less fortunate. “There’s no greater joy than seeing their smiles. I’m going to try and do this for as long as he can.” Wallop’s acts of kindness go beyond mere handouts, they renew faith and spread hope throughout the community. His selflessness shines a spotlight on just how much difference one cop can make when he puts his beat before himself. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-06

Thailand to Provide Free Internet Sim Cards to Disabled and Poor File photo for reference only In a significant move to bridge the digital divide, the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) in partnership with the Department of the Promotion and Development of Quality of Life of the Disabled, announced today that they will be distributing 1.1 million SIM cards. This initiative is specifically targeted towards disabled individuals and those living in poverty, offering them free internet access for six months, starting from February. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345452-thailand-to-provide-free-internet-sim-cards-to-disabled-and-poor/

File photo for reference only In a significant move to bridge the digital divide, the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) in partnership with the Department of the Promotion and Development of Quality of Life of the Disabled, announced today that they will be distributing 1.1 million SIM cards. This initiative is specifically targeted towards disabled individuals and those living in poverty, offering them free internet access for six months, starting from February. Torpong Selanon, an NBTC commissioner, emphasised that this free internet package is a gift aimed at ensuring that state welfare cardholders and disabled individuals have the opportunity to access the internet, which they may not currently afford. The registration for this initiative is open immediately and will continue until the end of December. The distribution of SIM cards is set to begin in January, ensuring people can access online resources and information seamlessly. The internet speed provided will be 2.0Mb, which recipients can utilise for six months. This effort is part of a broader strategy to promote digital inclusion and enhance the quality of life for vulnerable groups in Thailand. -- 2024-12-05

Thai Train Services Resume Amid Lingering Flood Threats File photo for reference only Following a week of disruptions due to heavy flooding, train services have resumed between Bangkok and Hat Yai, as well as between Yala and Su-Ngai Kolok, according to the State Railways of Thailand (SRT). The southeastern region faced significant interruptions, with tracks and signalling systems needing extensive repairs. The service between Hat Yai and Yala remains under repair but is expected to resume soon. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345449-thai-train-services-resume-amid-lingering-flood-threats/

File photo for reference only Following a week of disruptions due to heavy flooding, train services have resumed between Bangkok and Hat Yai, as well as between Yala and Su-Ngai Kolok, according to the State Railways of Thailand (SRT). The southeastern region faced significant interruptions, with tracks and signalling systems needing extensive repairs. The service between Hat Yai and Yala remains under repair but is expected to resume soon. Meanwhile, weather forecasts indicate persistent heavy rain across southern provinces, driven by a moderate north-eastern monsoon and a low-pressure system from the Straits of Malacca. The Meteorological Department predicts that Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat, Krabi, Trang, and Satun will be most affected. Residents near rivers and at the foot of mountains are urged to prepare for possible overflows and flash floods. Meanwhile, fishermen and sailors are cautioned against venturing into risky sea areas as waves could exceed two metres. Cautious optimism prevails as services gradually restore, yet the weather remains a looming concern for the southern communities. -- 2024-12-05

Thailand Expands Free Essential Medicines List Amid New Initiatives File photo for reference only Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong announced an exciting development yesterday: over 20 new drugs have been added to the national list of essential medicines. This list ensures that essential treatments—such as injectable drugs for severe psychiatric conditions, smoking cessation aids, and abortion drugs within legal limits—remain free for patients in need. This expansion is part of a broader strategy to increase access to crucial medications and promote public health across the nation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345448-thailand-expands-free-essential-medicines-list-amid-new-initiatives/