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Thailand to Raise Social Security Wage Ceiling for Better Benefits File photo for reference only The Thai Social Security Office plans to raise the wage ceiling for social security contributions. The ceiling will increase in stages, ultimately reaching 23,000 baht by January 2030. This aims to improve pensions and benefits for workers under Section 33, beginning in January 2026. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345362-thailand-to-raise-social-security-wage-ceiling-for-better-benefits/

File photo for reference only The Thai Social Security Office plans to raise the wage ceiling for social security contributions. The ceiling will increase in stages, ultimately reaching 23,000 baht by January 2030. This aims to improve pensions and benefits for workers under Section 33, beginning in January 2026. To set the new wage ranges, the Ministry of Labour’s SSO is holding a public consultation. People can share their opinions through an online questionnaire available on the SSO website from December 1 to 15, or at local social security offices across Thailand. The current maximum wage for contributions is 15,000 baht, unchanged since 1995. The new proposal adjusts the maximum wage to reflect today's economic conditions. From January 2024 to December 2026, contributions will be calculated on wages between 1,650 baht and 17,500 baht per month. From January 2027 to December 2029, the maximum wage will be 20,000 baht, and from January 2030 onward, it will climb to 23,000 baht. The change aims to boost benefits like unemployment, retirement, sickness, maternity, disability, and death allowances. Currently, a 15,000 baht wage ceiling means a maximum contribution of 750 baht per month, with benefits such as 7,500 baht monthly for illness and disability, and a 90,000 baht death allowance. From 2026 to 2028, a 17,500 baht ceiling will require an 875 baht monthly contribution, raising benefits like illness compensation to 8,750 baht monthly. By 2029-2031, a 20,000 baht ceiling will increase contributions to 1,000 baht monthly, with benefits, including a 10,000 baht monthly illness compensation. From 2032, at the 23,000 baht ceiling, contributions will be 1,150 baht monthly, with benefits like an 11,500 baht monthly illness compensation. These updates are designed to help workers cope with the rising cost of living and economic shifts. -- 2024-12-04

Thailand's Smoking Dads: A Growing Risk for Youth Amid Vaping Rise File photo for reference only Nearly 40% of fathers in Thailand smoke, affecting their children's health as vaping becomes more popular among youth. A recent survey of 1,159 fathers and other male caregivers of children up to six years old showed that 39.8% are smokers, according to Assistant Professor Wasin Siwaasarit from Thammasat University. Of these smokers, 77.22% primarily use cigarettes, 12.36% vape, and the rest do both. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345361-thailands-smoking-dads-a-growing-risk-for-youth-amid-vaping-rise/

File photo for reference only Nearly 40% of fathers in Thailand smoke, affecting their children's health as vaping becomes more popular among youth. A recent survey of 1,159 fathers and other male caregivers of children up to six years old showed that 39.8% are smokers, according to Assistant Professor Wasin Siwaasarit from Thammasat University. Of these smokers, 77.22% primarily use cigarettes, 12.36% vape, and the rest do both. Around 20% of the men quit smoking after learning they would become fathers. Still, despite knowing the dangers to their children, 77.87% struggle to quit. They also lack understanding of the health risks of vaping, said Pongthep Wongwatcharapaiboon from the Thai Health Promotion Foundation. "Vapes are causing problems in Thai society,” Dr. Pongthep added, noting vape juices contain harmful metals and over 16,000 artificial flavorings, which can inflame respiratory tissue and blood vessels. The survey highlights the need for better awareness and education on the risks of smoking and vaping, especially for those influencing children’s lives. -- 2024-12-04

Thailand Soars with Airbus to Become Top Regional Aviation Hub File photo for reference only Thailand is taking bold strides towards becoming Southeast Asia's leading aviation hub, following a strategic partnership with European aerospace giant Airbus. In a meeting that took place in Bangkok on December 3, Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit and Airbus Asia-Pacific president Anand Stanley discussed ambitious plans to overhaul the nation’s aviation infrastructure and boost safety standards. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345359-thailand-soars-with-airbus-to-become-top-regional-aviation-hub/

File photo for reference only Thailand is taking bold strides towards becoming Southeast Asia's leading aviation hub, following a strategic partnership with European aerospace giant Airbus. In a meeting that took place in Bangkok on December 3, Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit and Airbus Asia-Pacific president Anand Stanley discussed ambitious plans to overhaul the nation’s aviation infrastructure and boost safety standards. At the heart of this collaboration is the vision of transforming Thailand’s aviation landscape to handle a remarkable 250 million passengers annually by the year 2032. This development includes the construction of Andaman Airport on the southern west coast, designed to service 22.5 million passengers each year through a mix of long and short-haul flights. Sustainability is a key focus in this partnership. With the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT), Airbus is initiating projects to curb greenhouse gas emissions, pushing the boundaries by promoting sustainable aviation fuel and establishing environmental reporting systems. With a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) already in place, Airbus has committed resources to enhance human resource capacity and provide technical support, aligning Thailand’s aviation standards with international benchmarks. Minister Suriya praised Airbus for its critical financial and technical support in regulatory advancements and safety improvements. Meanwhile, Anand Stanley reaffirmed Airbus' dedication to elevating Thailand’s aviation sector through innovative solutions and sustainable practices. The collaboration marks a pivotal moment for Thailand, positioning it at the forefront of regional aviation while securing both economic growth and environmental stewardship. -- 2024-12-04

Thai man arrested for driving into wife outside police station - video By Petch Petpailin Photo via One 31 Police in the southern province of Krabi yesterday arrested a Thai man after he drove his pickup into his wife and her family outside a police station in Nakhon Si Thammarat on November 20. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345358-thai-man-arrested-for-driving-into-wife-outside-police-station-video/

Photo via One 31 By Petch Petpailin Police in the southern province of Krabi yesterday arrested a Thai man after he drove his pickup into his wife and her family outside a police station in Nakhon Si Thammarat on November 20. The domestic violence case initially went largely unnoticed despite occurring over two weeks ago. However, it gained public attention after officers apprehended the suspect yesterday, December 3, identified as 27 year old Pinno Sisooksai, at his family home in Krabi. Pinno was charged with attempted murder following the incident. On November 20, his wife, 26 year old Lek, accompanied by her child and other family members, went to Tung Yai Police Station in Nakhon Si Thammarat to file a complaint against him. Lek alleged that she was physically abused by Pinno and was concerned for the safety of herself and her child, prompting her to seek police assistance. Pinno allegedly followed Lek in his pickup and arrived at the police station shortly after her. As Lek and her family members exited their vehicle and prepared to enter the station, Pinno reportedly drove his pickup into them. He then fled the scene and hid at his family home in Krabi. The condition of Lek and her family members was not disclosed in the report. A journalist from Channel 8 interviewed Pinno’s younger sister, who visited him at the police station following his arrest. The sister expressed frustration and declined to comment extensively to the media but later responded angrily to further questioning. “I don’t want to tell you anything. It’s a personal issue. It’s a matter within my family. He (Pinno) didn’t flee. He came to Krabi to visit my ill grandfather. That’s all.” When asked about the accusation that Pinno deliberately drove into the victims, the sister denied the claim. “He didn’t hit anyone. The road was slippery because of recent rain and the car slid along the road and hit them.” Under Section 288 of the Criminal Law, Pinno faces a charge of attempted murder, which carries half the penalty for murder. If convicted, he could face life imprisonment, the death penalty, or a prison sentence ranging from 15 to 20 years. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-04

Foreign driver at large after hit-and-run and chase in Bangkok - video By Petch Petpailin Photo via TikTok/ @tukgii3 A foreign driver managed to flee following a hit-and-run in the On Nut area of Bangkok and a high-speed chase with Thai motorcycle taxi riders. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345357-foreign-driver-at-large-after-hit-and-run-and-chase-in-bangkok-video/

Photo via TikTok/ @tukgii3 By Petch Petpailin A foreign driver managed to flee following a hit-and-run in the On Nut area of Bangkok and a high-speed chase with Thai motorcycle taxi riders. An app-based motorcycle taxi rider shared a video of the incident on his TikTok account, tukgii3, on Monday, 2 December, with the caption: “On Nut is very thrilling. #HitAndRun #OutsideBigCOnNut.” The video showed a red Honda sedan with front damage parked in the middle of the road. A group of motorcycle taxi riders and other motorcyclists were seen gathered around the vehicle. They attempted to open the car door and urged the driver to step out. The sedan’s driver, reportedly a foreign man, refused to get out and attempted to escape the scene. Some taxi riders repeatedly hit the car, while others shouted at the driver in Thai, demanding he exit the vehicle. The video ended before the situation was resolved because the app-based rider had to deliver his passenger to their destination. The rider later explained that he did not know how the situation concluded but confirmed that the foreigner committed a hit-and-run. According to a report on Channel 8, the foreign man successfully escaped the scene. The vehicle’s registration number was visible in the video, making it potentially easy to trace him if police investigate the case. The incident reportedly took place near the Phra Khanong Police Station but no officers were present in the video at the time. In the comment section, the app-based rider assured netizens that no one was injured in the hit-and-run. However, it remains unclear whether the victim pursued legal action against the foreigner. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-04

Thai police officer denies sexually assaulting teenage girl - video By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook บ้านเฮียชาญ อุ้ยอุบล Alarming viral footage on social media allegedly shows a Thai police officer sexually assaulting a young girl in the Isaan province of Sisaket. The officer vehemently denied the accusation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345356-thai-police-officer-denies-sexually-assaulting-teenage-girl-video/

Photo via Facebook บ้านเฮียชาญ อุ้ยอุบล By Petch Petpailin Alarming viral footage on social media allegedly shows a Thai police officer sexually assaulting a young girl in the Isaan province of Sisaket. The officer vehemently denied the accusation. The local social media influencer in the Isaan province of Ubon Ratchathani shared videos of the incident on his Facebook account, บ้านเฮียชาญ อุ้ยอุบล (Ban Hia Charn, Aui Ubon), on November 29. The videos gained more attention after the renowned Facebook page, Social Hunter 2022, reshared them. In the first video, the policeman in full uniform was seen hugging a young girl in a red shirt and kissing her on the head outside a house. Another video featured the policeman sitting at the same house and hugging the girl. The person who recorded the video was confident that this police officer sexually assaulted the girl and was heard saying, “You are a bastard!” Channel 8 conducted further investigation into the case and reported that the officer in the video was a police sergeant major serving Non Khun Police Station in Sisaket. He was identified only as Khom in the report. The girl in the video is reportedly 14 years old. The media contacted the Superintendent of the police station, Phattara Kamon, who promised to question Khom in detail. Mother defends police While waiting for clarification, the media contacted the girl’s mother. The mother insisted that she did not consider the police officer’s actions to be sexual assault because Khom was very kind to her daughter. She and the police officer knew each other well, even if they were not friends or relatives. The mother insisted that Khom usually hugged and kissed her daughter as seen in the video but he did it when he was not in uniform. She did not know who recorded the video or why the person released the video to the public. The media eventually managed to contact Khom and visited him at his home for an interview. Khom stated that he loved the girl like his biological niece. Her mother had asked him to take care of the girl when she was busy, so they were close to each other. Khom insisted that he had no romantic feelings for the girl and already discussed the issue with her mother. They already settled the issue. Despite the clarification from both parties, some netizens expressed their concern over the girl’s safety and suspected that the police might be hiding his real intentions from the girl and her family. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-04

Machete-wielding thieves strike twice in chilling Pattaya heist By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail A shocking burglary in South Pattaya has left residents on edge after security footage revealed two masked intruders brazenly breaking into a home, one wielding a 50-centimetre machete during their second raid. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345355-machete-wielding-thieves-strike-twice-in-chilling-pattaya-heist/

Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail By Puntid Tantivangphaisal A shocking burglary in South Pattaya has left residents on edge after security footage revealed two masked intruders brazenly breaking into a home, one wielding a 50-centimetre machete during their second raid. The terrifying saga unfolded on September 21 but came to light yesterday, December 3 when the homeowner, fashion retailer Sunthorn, shared the harrowing details. While Sunthorn was away, a friend staying at the house narrowly avoided a confrontation with the armed burglars. The thieves made off with a black shoulder bag, cash, and a wristwatch worth 8,000 baht. Disturbing CCTV footage shows the suspects, believed to be men in their 40s or 50s, scaling the back fence before sneaking into the property. Despite filing a police report at Pattaya City Police Station, Sunthorn expressed disappointment over the lack of action. “If my friend had woken up while the intruder was armed, it could have been fatal.” Frustrated, Sunthorn launched an investigation on his own, scouring the streets for two days before uncovering a lead: one of the suspects is reportedly a motorbike taxi driver operating in the Soi Korphai area. Sunthorn has since released the footage to warn others, highlighting the potential dangers even in busy urban areas. “This could happen to anyone, anywhere.” Police have yet to make any arrests, leaving residents anxious as the machete-wielding culprits remain at large, reported Pattaya Mail. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-04

Four Thai nationals safe after Myanmar sea detainment By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Four Thai nationals detained in Myanmar are reportedly safe after their boat allegedly entered Myanmar waters in the Andaman Sea over the weekend. The government reported this information yesterday, December 3, following an incident where Myanmar navy vessels reportedly opened fire on some of the 15 Thai fishing boats that strayed 6 to 7 kilometres into Myanmar waters on November 30. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345354-four-thai-nationals-safe-after-myanmar-sea-detainment/

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post By Bright Choomanee Four Thai nationals detained in Myanmar are reportedly safe after their boat allegedly entered Myanmar waters in the Andaman Sea over the weekend. The government reported this information yesterday, December 3, following an incident where Myanmar navy vessels reportedly opened fire on some of the 15 Thai fishing boats that strayed 6 to 7 kilometres into Myanmar waters on November 30. During the incident, a tragic loss occurred as one fisherman drowned after jumping into the sea. Some 31 crew members, including the four Thais, were subsequently detained by the Myanmar officials. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra assured that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reached out with an official communication regarding the situation. “We have received confirmation that all four Thais are safe,” she stated. “Efforts are ongoing to secure their release as quickly as possible.” Foreign Affairs Minister Maris Sangiampongsa engaged in discussions with both the Myanmar ambassador to Thailand and Myanmar’s foreign minister concerning the release of the detained individuals. The Royal Thai Embassy in Myanmar, along with the Ministry of Defence, is actively involved in these diplomatic efforts. Thawee Phaeyai, chairman of the Phang Nga Fisheries Association, has shown solidarity with those affected, visiting Ban Nam Khem in Phang Nga province to support the families of the detained crew members. He provided details of the confrontation, stating that the Thai fishing vessel Sor Charoenchai 8 was attacked by the Myanmar navy, leading to injuries and casualties. Thawee highlighted the importance of Thai fishing operations adhering to the maritime boundaries of Thailand. He emphasised that all Thai fishing vessels include Vessel Monitoring Systems to prevent encroachments into restricted or foreign waters. According to Thawee, the captains of these vessels have denied any border violations, reported Bangkok Post. “The use of force by the Myanmar military was excessive.” Thawee added that the association plans to formally request assistance from relevant agencies to ensure the safe return of the detained crew members. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-04

Eight arrested in 2 billion baht digital wallet scam bust By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of sondhitalk A major crackdown on a digital wallet scam involving 2 billion baht resulted in the arrest of eight people accused of orchestrating an online stock trading fraud. Law enforcement seized assets worth 80 million baht, including luxurious properties and vehicles. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345353-eight-arrested-in-2-billion-baht-digital-wallet-scam-bust/

Picture courtesy of sondhitalk By Bright Choomanee A major crackdown on a digital wallet scam involving 2 billion baht resulted in the arrest of eight people accused of orchestrating an online stock trading fraud. Law enforcement seized assets worth 80 million baht, including luxurious properties and vehicles. Police at the Central Investigation Bureau, led by Jiraphop Phuridej, held a press conference detailing the arrests of 36 year old Sayan, 21 year old Suthi, 24 year old Paphawin, 28 year old Pongphet, 20 year old Ngamsiri, 47 year old Suwannee, 37 year old Jumei, and 19 year old Atthaporn. These individuals face charges of participating in a transnational criminal organisation, operating a secret society, fraudulently impersonating others, providing false computer information, and money laundering. Victims had earlier reported being lured into fake Facebook pages promising lucrative returns on online stock trading. Misled by the false promises, they transferred money to the fraudsters multiple times, collectively suffering losses amounting to approximately 3,800,000 baht (US$110,617). Investigations revealed that the defrauded funds were converted into cryptocurrency (USDT) using the Binance platform and further transferred to different digital wallets. The ill-gotten gains were subsequently transformed into various high-value assets such as luxury houses, condominiums, land deeds, and vehicles. Wallet scam Law enforcement secured arrest warrants for 12 suspects, which included four individuals managing bank and cryptocurrency mule accounts, three brokers facilitating mule accounts and cross-border movements, two office workers responsible for facial scans and managing residences in Poipet, and three individuals involved in money laundering and receiving illicit benefits. Adtip, a senior officer, explained that Operation CyberGuardian was launched to apprehend the suspects. The operation involved searches across seven locations, including Nakhon Ratchasima, Tak, Songkhla, and Bangkok, resulting in the arrest of eight suspects. Among these were three mule account operators, two brokers and three individuals engaged in money laundering and receiving illegal profits. Seized assets included a luxury house valued at 27 million baht (US$785,717), two vehicles, four upscale condominiums, and multiple land deeds in Phuket, Tak, Chiang Mai, and Chiang Rai. Additionally, police confiscated over 600,000 baht (US$17,460) in cash, gold bars, and numerous branded handbags, totalling assets worth 80 million baht (US$2.3 million), reported KhaoSod. “The digital wallets used by the fraudsters have been utilized to receive cryptocurrency from deceived victims in this and other cases, accumulating over 2 billion baht (US$58 million),” revealed Chitsanuphong, an investigating officer. The group is suspected of operating similar scams across the border in a neighbouring country, near Aranyaprathet district, Sa Kaeo province. All eight suspects, along with the seized evidence, have been handed over to the investigation unit for further legal proceedings. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-04

Thailand’s PM champions disability rights on International Day By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra delivered a heartfelt message on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, reaffirming her government’s commitment to inclusivity and equal opportunities for all. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345286-thailand’s-pm-champions-disability-rights-on-international-day/

Photo courtesy of The Nation By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra delivered a heartfelt message on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, reaffirming her government’s commitment to inclusivity and equal opportunities for all. Celebrated annually on December 3, the day marks a significant call to action for societies to dismantle barriers and ensure the dignity and rights of individuals with disabilities are respected. Equal opportunities was a central theme of the 38 year old Thai PM’s address, as she outlined the government’s ongoing efforts to integrate people with disabilities into all aspects of society. She pointed out that government policies are meticulously designed to safeguard the rights of people with disabilities and their families, offering access to vital resources, economic opportunities, justice, public services, and social security benefits. Highlighting the importance of collaboration across all sectors, the Thai premier stressed the need for a collective effort to break down the barriers that often restrict the lives of those with disabilities, reported The Nation. “On this occasion of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, I would like to send my encouragement to all people with disabilities and their families. “Please trust that the government will take care of everyone, ensuring that they can live and access basic welfare equally so that every person with disabilities can live happily, with inspiration, and fully utilise their potential.” Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-03

Cannabis store HR officer slaps worker amid alleged embezzlement - video By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Social Hunter 2022 Former employees of a cannabis retail chain accused managers and a human resources (HR) officer of falsely accusing them of embezzlement and extorting money. The HR officer also reportedly physically assaulted one of the workers. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345285-cannabis-store-hr-officer-slaps-worker-amid-alleged-embezzlement-video/

Photo via Facebook/ Social Hunter 2022 By Petch Petpailin Former employees of a cannabis retail chain accused managers and a human resources (HR) officer of falsely accusing them of embezzlement and extorting money. The HR officer also reportedly physically assaulted one of the workers. Two Thai men, who previously worked for the cannabis company, shared CCTV footage with the Facebook news page Social Hunter 2022. The footage shows a female HR officer slapping a colleague in the face. In the video, four managers dressed in black shirts, the HR officer in a green shirt, and the victim in a white shirt are visible. The video depicts the managers gathering around the worker in the white shirt, who is seen arguing with the HR officer. During the exchange, the HR officer is heard saying… “You can complain to anyone but not Ben.” The worker began to respond but was interrupted when the HR officer slapped him in the face and walked away. It was later reported that “Ben” is one of the company’s shareholders. The two former employees, who shared the video with the public, also spoke to Hone Krasae, revealing that the HR team reportedly uncovered embezzlement during a special promotional campaign and accused all 30 workers of being involved. The HR officer and managers allegedly demanded to inspect the mobile phones of all employees to identify those responsible, as the company operates more than 11 shops nationwide. Crime evidence shared A suspicious message was reportedly found on the phone of the worker in the white shirt, who also allegedly made negative remarks about Ben. According to the whistle-blowers, the HR officer and managers demanded compensation of 100,000 baht from each worker accused of involvement. Those unable to pay were reportedly asked to contribute between 40,000 and 50,000 baht instead. Workers were also allegedly coerced into signing documents admitting guilt. Those who refused were forced to resign. The two former employees stated that they did not know whether the worker in the white shirt committed the crime or not. The HR officer, identified as Lek, defended her actions, claiming she discovered the embezzlement over the past five to six months and already provided evidence to the police. She admitted to slapping the worker but justified it as a response to his harsh complaint about Ben. Lek accused every worker of being involved in the crime. They allegedly sold products at a normal price instead of offering a special discount according to the store’s promotion and then pocketed the difference. Lek insisted that she had never forced any employees to pay compensation, asserting that those who paid did so willingly. As of now, there have been no further updates on the incident from Thai news agencies. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-03

Phuket rolls out electric buses in bold push for greener island By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Phuket News Phuket has just taken a major leap towards modernising its public transport with the launch of electric buses, marking the beginning of a cleaner, more sustainable future for the island. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345284-phuket-rolls-out-electric-buses-in-bold-push-for-greener-island/

Photo courtesy of Phuket News By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Phuket has just taken a major leap towards modernising its public transport with the launch of electric buses, marking the beginning of a cleaner, more sustainable future for the island. The historic moment occurred yesterday, December 2 at the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation (PPAO), where a ceremony was held to unveil the first trial buses. Governor Sophon Suwannarat and PPAO President Rewat Areerob led the event, signalling a new chapter in the island’s transportation revolution. Governor Sophon expressed his enthusiasm for the project, which he sees as a transformative step for the island’s transport network. “This project demonstrates the PPAO’s dedication to promoting clean technology and sustainable development. “It supports our vision of a Smart City, enhances tourism, and positively impacts Phuket’s image on the global stage.” The governor stressed that the EV buses would alleviate traffic congestion, reduce air pollution, and cater to all residents, including students, the elderly, disabled individuals, and tourists. The PPAO’s ambitious initiative aims to replace the island’s iconic pink buses, known as Pho Thong, with 24 new air-conditioned electric buses. These will serve three key routes, providing better access to tourist attractions, schools, and shopping areas, said PPAO President Rewat. “The EV bus project represents a forward-thinking solution, providing modern, efficient and safe transportation while reducing environmental impact.” The trial runs are taking place on the Saphan Hin to Central Phuket route, with three buses available for passengers to try out. Regular fares are set at 15 baht, with free rides for students, the elderly, disabled individuals, and monks. In a further boost to sustainable travel, the Phuket Smart Bus continues to grow in popularity, offering day passes for its expanding routes between Phuket Town and Patong, as well as to Rawai Beach, reported Phuket News. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-03

Thailand grants citizenship to 72 stateless individuals in Chiang Rai By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail A historic moment unfolded in Chiang Rai as Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra presented Thai citizenship cards to 72 individuals from ethnic minority groups, marking a monumental step towards addressing statelessness in the country. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345283-thailand-grants-citizenship-to-72-stateless-individuals-in-chiang-rai/