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Poker-faced fraudster nabbed in million-baht investment scam By Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post In a dramatic turn of events, a key figure in a jaw-dropping multi-million baht investment scam has been collared by the law in Phuket. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345147-poker-faced-fraudster-nabbed-in-million-baht-investment-scam/

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post By Mitch Connor In a dramatic turn of events, a key figure in a jaw-dropping multi-million baht investment scam has been collared by the law in Phuket. Nattapol, the slippery suspect, was rounded up by officers from the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) working in tandem with the Highway Police, after slipping through the net on four separate arrest warrants for his alleged role in a scandal that’s swindled the public out of over 11 million baht. This dodgy dealmaker was finally nabbed at a workers’ residence tucked away in a palm plantation in Moo 7, Tambon Phru Din Na, Khlong Thom District, Krabi. Despite the lack of specifics in the official report released last Thursday by the CIB, it’s clear that the arrest of Nattapol followed an exhaustive probe by the police. Nattapol faces a laundry list of charges, including public fraud, identity deception, and fiddling with computer systems using bogus or warped data. His scheming has left a trail of financial devastation in its wake, duping scores of unsuspecting victims. Alarm bells first rang when law enforcement was tipped off about a gang of crooks using a Facebook page to lure potential victims with sweet promises of over-the-top returns on investments in foreign currency coins. This clever con caught the imagination of would-be investors, lending undeserved credibility to the fraudulent operation. Nattapol kept a low profile, blending in unnoticed at the workers’ camp where he was reportedly hiding in plain sight and laying low, according to sources in the know. Post-arrest, Nattapol was duly informed of his rights and the slew of charges hanging over his head. He’s since been shipped off to Samrong Nuea Police Station in Bangkok, where he’ll be facing the music in the coming legal tussles. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-02

Thailand Post to overhaul framework in modernisation efforts By Ryan Turner Mail collection box | Photo via Markus Winkler/Pexels Thailand’s Digital Economy and Society Ministry tasked Thailand Post with overhauling the outdated Postal Act of 1934. The initiative aims to enhance the regulation of postal and logistics services, aligning them with the current business environment. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345145-thailand-post-to-overhaul-framework-in-modernisation-efforts/

Mail collection box | Photo via Markus Winkler/Pexels By Ryan Turner Thailand’s Digital Economy and Society Ministry tasked Thailand Post with overhauling the outdated Postal Act of 1934. The initiative aims to enhance the regulation of postal and logistics services, aligning them with the current business environment. The Postal Act of 1934 was the first comprehensive piece of legislation governing postal services in Thailand. It established the framework for the operation of the postal system, including the creation of the Post and Telegraph Department, which later became Thailand Post. This move is expected to elevate service quality and reshape the competitive landscape within the industry. Thailand Post President Dhanant Subhadrabandhu indicated that the new draft of the legislation should be ready by next year. He emphasised that the title of the new bill will differ from the original, reflecting the significant changes in the business landscape over the decades. The revision will foster a more competitive environment, ultimately benefiting the country, according to Dhanant. “The Postal Act has remained unchanged for nearly a century and is due for a comprehensive update.” The express delivery market in Thailand experienced increasing competition since 2022, driven largely by the entrance of foreign companies employing below-cost pricing strategies. This practice, deemed as predatory pricing by Thailand Post, has significantly impacted the market landscape and poses a potential threat to the logistics ecosystem if left unchecked. Quality concerns Despite incurring substantial losses, global logistics companies have managed to expand their market share in Thailand. These dynamics have led to concerns about service quality in the parcel delivery sector, which Thailand Post dominated with a 27% share of the domestic logistics market last year. The remaining market share is largely held by foreign operators, particularly Chinese companies. Dhanant highlighted the need for proper regulation to curb below-cost pricing practices and to ensure service quality for consumers. He warned that without such regulations, the domestic market might risk monopolisation, which could be detrimental to consumers. “Thailand Post has been aware of these threats for a number of years, prompting the implementation of a turnaround roadmap.” Apart from its delivery services, Thailand Post also plays a vital role in supporting local communities, especially during crises. It distributes medicines, medical supplies, and equipment nationwide, as well as delivers produce and goods from farmers to consumers. Updating the Postal Act is seen as a step towards ensuring greater accountability from service providers regarding service quality. According to Dhanant, the express delivery market is projected to witness an average annual growth of 11.2% from 2022 to 2024, underscoring the increasing importance of maintaining high service standards, reported Bangkok Post. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-02

Fight for life: Urgent heart ops needed for 400 Thai newborns a year By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Each year, a staggering 4,000 newborns in Thailand face a daunting diagnosis: congenital heart disease. According to the Department of Medical Services, this serious condition demands urgent attention, with 10% of these cases requiring immediate medical intervention to save tiny lives. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345143-fight-for-life-urgent-heart-ops-needed-for-400-thai-newborns-a-year/

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post By Bob Scott Each year, a staggering 4,000 newborns in Thailand face a daunting diagnosis: congenital heart disease. According to the Department of Medical Services, this serious condition demands urgent attention, with 10% of these cases requiring immediate medical intervention to save tiny lives. Dr Taweesilp Visanuyothin reveals the gravity of the situation, noting that while some cases are flagged during pregnancy, a significant number are discovered only after birth. This condition affects eight out of every 1,000 births, a sobering statistic when you consider that over half a million babies are born in Thailand every year. Among the afflicted, around 400 infants are hit with critical congenital heart disease (CCHD). Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF), a particularly severe form, is a leading cause of infant mortality, accounting for approximately 250 cases annually that require surgical intervention. Dr Taweesilp explains that as these young patients grow, many will need another surgery between the ages of 12 and 15 to replace damaged pulmonary valves. Enter Percutaneous Pulmonary Valve Implantation (PPVI), a lifesaver offering a less invasive option that could reduce the need for repeated surgeries. But here’s the catch: this specialised treatment is still a rarity in Thailand due to its hefty price tag, ranging from 600,000 to 1 million baht per procedure. Since 2013, the Queen Sirikit National Institute of Child Health has been pushing boundaries by pioneering transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement treatments. As the first medical facility within the Ministry of Public Health to perform these breakthrough procedures, it has successfully treated over 100 children and adolescents so far. Leading the charge is Akkarathan Jittanuyanon, the institute’s director, who proudly recalls a historic moment in 2015 when the institute broadcasted a live cardiac catheterisation from its state-of-the-art Hybrid Cardiac Catheterisation Room to the Congress of Congenital Heart Disease. “From 2016 to 2017, we conducted live broadcasts five times.” The institute’s growing global stature hasn’t gone unnoticed. In recognition of its contributions, the prestigious CSI Foundation invited the institute to host the CSI Asia Pacific event annually until 2024, a grand gathering drawing over 600 international participants. The Queen Sirikit National Institute of Child Health has not only become a beacon of hope for heart patients but also a sought-after training hub, attracting foreign medical professionals keen to learn cutting-edge cardiac catheterisation techniques. Since 2013, it has fortified its reputation within the global paediatric cardiology community, putting Thailand firmly on the map as a leader in congenital heart defect treatment. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-02

Drowning in chaos: Pattani floods shut down hospitals By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattani public relations office viaBangkok Post Four hospitals in the southern province of Pattani have been forced to close their doors as relentless floodwaters swamp their compounds, leaving patients to be evacuated to emergency field hospitals. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344963-drowning-in-chaos-pattani-floods-shut-down-hospitals/

Photo courtesy of Pattani public relations office viaBangkok Post By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Four hospitals in the southern province of Pattani have been forced to close their doors as relentless floodwaters swamp their compounds, leaving patients to be evacuated to emergency field hospitals. The disaster, which has engulfed Nong Chik, Yaring, Thung Yang Daeng, and Mae Lan hospitals, is wreaking havoc in this southern border province. Dr Anurak Saraparb, chief of the Pattani Public Health Office, confirmed the closures. “Patients have already been moved to field hospitals. Doctors, nurses, and health personnel are working to ensure their safety and care.” The crisis, fuelled by heavy rain and high sea tides, has created a dire situation, particularly in areas near the Pattani and Sai Buri rivers. Floodwaters are not sparing anyone. In the bustling Mueang municipal area, Pattani’s main economic hub, waters surged by 10 centimetres today, forcing many shops to remain shuttered for a third day. Officials in seven districts are scrambling to monitor the situation as residents brace for more trouble, with fears that runoff from neighbouring Yala province could aggravate the already critical flooding. Local officials are sounding the alarm as they contend with the combined impact of torrential rain, swollen rivers, and high tides. With no clear end in sight, Pattani’s residents are left wondering when relief will come, reported Bangkok Post. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-29

Thaksin hits the road to boost Pheu Thai’s PAO hopes By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pheu Thai Party viaBangkok Post Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is back in the political spotlight, gearing up to help Pheu Thai candidates in key Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO) races. After a triumphant showing in Udon Thani, the party is looking to capitalise on its momentum with Thaksin as its secret weapon. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344962-thaksin-hits-the-road-to-boost-pheu-thai’s-pao-hopes/

Photo courtesy of Pheu Thai Party viaBangkok Post By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is back in the political spotlight, gearing up to help Pheu Thai candidates in key Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO) races. After a triumphant showing in Udon Thani, the party is looking to capitalise on its momentum with Thaksin as its secret weapon. A party insider revealed the 74 year old former PM will visit Ubon Ratchathani on December 11, coinciding with the opening day for candidacy applications. The visit includes a strategy meeting with local party heavyweights at the home of Pheu Thai MP Worasit Kaltinan. While no official endorsement for candidate Kan Kaltinan, a former PAO chairman, has been announced, Thaksin’s presence is expected to rally the faithful. Thaksin’s involvement follows his successful support for Pheu Thai’s Sarawut Petchpanomporn in Udon Thani. Sarawut clinched victory on November 24 with 327,487 votes, defeating the People’s Party’s Kanisorn Khurirang, who garnered 268,675. Thaksin’s speeches at a November rally drew 5,000 attendees, solidifying his reputation as a vote-magnet. The political tour doesn’t stop there. Thaksin will head to Chiang Mai on December 23 and later visit Sisaket to bolster other Pheu Thai candidates. However, his daughter, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, will steer clear of these events to avoid accusations of power misuse, the source said. Pheu Thai Secretary General Prasert Jantararuangtong exuded confidence, citing the Udon Thani win as a boost to party morale. “The nationwide PAO race in February will see us field candidates across numerous provinces.” Prasert added that there is a need to consolidate support in regions like Chiang Mai, where the party faces stiff competition from the People’s Party, reported Bangkok Post. With 29 provinces exempt from February’s polls, the remaining elections could shape Pheu Thai’s regional dominance. Thaksin’s hands-on approach may just be the party’s ace in the hole. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-29

Thai man loses 1.8 million baht in online scam By Ryan Turner Image via KhaoSod A Thai man who works as a production manager has fallen victim to an online scam that has cost him just over 1.8 million baht. His family, worried about the financial losses, took him to file a police report yesterday, November 28, after he was convinced by fraudsters that he would be refunded the next day. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344961-thai-man-loses-18-million-baht-in-online-scam/

Image via KhaoSod By Ryan Turner A Thai man who works as a production manager has fallen victim to an online scam that has cost him just over 1.8 million baht. His family, worried about the financial losses, took him to file a police report yesterday, November 28, after he was convinced by fraudsters that he would be refunded the next day. The scam began when the victim, Natchaphon, attempted to purchase a second-hand Honda Wave motorcycle via a Facebook page offering cheap motorbikes. Natchaphon initially transferred a deposit of 1,000 baht as requested by the page admin, followed by two further payments of 3,000 baht each, all purportedly for processing fees. However, he was later asked to transfer more money, totalling 40,000 baht, over two days. When the requests continued, he grew suspicious and stopped further payments after realising he had already exceeded what would have been the cost of the motorcycle. Following these events, he received a link from a page claiming to assist victims of online fraud. Still hopeful of recovering his initial loss, Natchaphon clicked the link, which led him to another series of deceptive interactions. He was contacted by someone posing as an official from the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO), who claimed they could help retrieve his money. However, before any funds could be returned, Natchaphon was told his financial records needed verification, requiring him to transfer his funds to them. Down the drain Over several days, Natchaphon transferred over 1.8 million baht across 20 transactions, believing that his money would be returned once the checks were completed. Most recently, he was asked to transfer an additional 200,000 baht to complete the verification process. It was at this point that Natchaphon approached his sister for a loan, which led her to realise the gravity of the situation. Concerned that her brother was being scammed, she insisted that they report the incident to the police. Despite his initial reluctance, Natchaphon agreed, hoping to reclaim his lost savings. Upon filing the report at Sai Noi Police Station in Nonthaburi province, the officers began investigating the bank accounts to which Natchaphon had sent the money. They also advised him to notify his bank to freeze the accounts involved. The police have planned to issue summonses to the account holders for questioning. Natchaphon, still holding onto the hope of recovering his money, was advised by the alleged AMLO official to keep the matter confidential as it was considered a government secret. He was promised that his money would be returned soon. However, the police have cautioned him to be wary of such promises and to await the outcome of their investigation, reported KhaoSod. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-29

Government Plans to Increase Support for Elderly, Disabled, and Families with Children File photo for reference only Today, the Cabinet gave the go-ahead to a proposed increase in the cost of living subsidy for the elderly and disabled, raising the maximum support from Bt1,000 to Bt1,250. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344960-government-plans-to-increase-support-for-elderly-disabled-and-families-with-children/

File photo for reference only Today, the Cabinet gave the go-ahead to a proposed increase in the cost of living subsidy for the elderly and disabled, raising the maximum support from Bt1,000 to Bt1,250. Currently, elderly people receive subsidies based on age: Bt600 for ages 60-69, Bt700 for ages 70-79, Bt800 for ages 80-89, and Bt1,000 for those over 90. If the plan is approved, these rates will rise to Bt700, Bt800, Bt1,000, and Bt1,250 respectively. Disabled individuals will see their subsidy increase from Bt800 to Bt1,000 per month. Additionally, families with children up to six years old, who have an annual income not exceeding Bt100,000, currently receive Bt600 per child each month. This policy is now under review. In another move to support families, the government plans to extend free education to children up to 15 years old. This effort will be managed by the Education, Social Development and Human Security ministries, alongside the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society. -- 2024-11-29

Thai man jumps from reversing pickup as it crashes into 27 vehicles By Petch Petpailin Photo via TikTok/ @kong_2k A Thai delivery driver lost control of his company pickup, causing it to reverse and crash into 27 vehicles parked at the Baan Ua-Athorn Hathairat community in the Khlong Samwa district of Bangkok yesterday, November 28. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344959-thai-man-jumps-from-reversing-pickup-as-it-crashes-into-27-vehicles/

Photo via TikTok/ @kong_2k By Petch Petpailin A Thai delivery driver lost control of his company pickup, causing it to reverse and crash into 27 vehicles parked at the Baan Ua-Athorn Hathairat community in the Khlong Samwa district of Bangkok yesterday, November 28. Victims of the accident shared footage of the crash and the damaged vehicles on the TikTok app. A Thai woman posted a video on her account, @tung_may202529. “Want to cry seeing this? He (the pickup driver) damaged 27 vehicles in total, including my beloved Honda Wave motorcycle.” In the video, the driver of the white pickup, which had a storage compartment in the back, is seen jumping out of the vehicle as it continued rolling backwards, crashing into other parked cars in a domino effect. The woman’s motorcycle was shown being toppled by two larger motorbikes. Another victim also shared a video of the damage on his TikTok account, @kong_2k, the same day. “Morning entertainment. Getting into trouble while doing nothing but parking the car.” The video displayed various damaged vehicles, including sedans, pickups, hatchbacks, and motorcycles. One of the sedans was shown leaning against a 7-Eleven delivery motorbike. Netizens speculated on the cause of the accident in the comment section. Some suggested the driver may have parked the vehicle in reverse gear, causing it to lurch backwards when he restarted the engine. Others suspected the driver modified the braking system, putting the vehicle at risk of malfunction. However, the driver did not come forward to clarify the incident. None of the victims disclosed details about compensation or legal action against the driver and the police are yet to report the incident. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-29

Bangkok reviews overpass closure plan amid traffic concerns By Ryan Turner Image via Reddit/PunsT3R Plans for a one-year closure of the overpass connecting Rama IX Intersection, Asoke-Din Daeng Intersection, and Phang Mueang Intersection, are to be reassessed following concerns about severe traffic congestion. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344958-bangkok-reviews-overpass-closure-plan-amid-traffic-concerns/

Image via Reddit/PunsT3R By Ryan Turner Plans for a one-year closure of the overpass connecting Rama IX Intersection, Asoke-Din Daeng Intersection, and Phang Mueang Intersection, are to be reassessed following concerns about severe traffic congestion. The Metropolitan Police Bureau advised avoiding the roads in the Din Daeng and Huai Khwang districts due to scheduled repairs from tomorrow, November 30. However, the planned closure has sparked significant criticism from road users. Reports indicate that yesterday, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), through the Department of Public Works, started to reconsider the traffic closure plan during the renovation of the aforementioned intersections. The decision to review the plan comes amidst ongoing road improvement projects in these heavily congested areas. The BMA is currently working on the project to overhaul the overpass at the Rama IX, Asoke-Din Daeng, and Phang Mueang intersections. The Department of Public Works has sought the cooperation of the Metropolitan Police Bureau to facilitate traffic management. A meeting was held on November 14, where it was agreed to close the road starting from December 1. The plan includes continuous 24-hour closures of certain sections as needed, and a full closure of the overpass once the repairs at Khlong Tan Intersection are completed, expected by June 1, 2025. The traffic closure is planned in phases, starting with the inbound lanes, followed by the outbound lanes, each for six months. The Metropolitan Police Bureau formally notified the Department of Public Works, granting permission to the contractor, IETL Co., Ltd., to carry out activities within the Bangkok area from November 15 to May 15, 2025. The Department of Public Works has evaluated the situation, recognising that traffic in the project area and its surroundings is typically heavy and congested. The department is currently considering methods for renovating the Rama IX overpass that would minimize traffic disruption. With additional road diversions due to the construction of the Orange Line by the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA), further closure of surface roads and overpasses at Rama IX Intersection would exacerbate traffic congestion significantly, impacting commuters, reported KhaoSod. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-29

Old friends, new deals: Singapore PM makes visit to Thailand By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Chanat Katanyu via Bangkok Post In a historic first, Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong touched down in Thailand yesterday, November 28, to meet Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344957-old-friends-new-deals-singapore-pm-makes-visit-to-thailand/

Photo courtesy of Chanat Katanyu via Bangkok Post By Puntid Tantivangphaisal In a historic first, Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong touched down in Thailand yesterday, November 28, to meet Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Marking his first official visit since taking office in May, Wong is the first foreign leader the 38 year old Thai PM has hosted, setting the stage for a high-stakes dialogue on diplomacy and development. The visit coincides with a major milestone: 60 years of diplomatic relations between the two nations, celebrated next year. Thailand was among the first to recognise Singapore’s independence in 1965, cementing a bond that has grown stronger over the decades. At Government House, the leaders witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding on scholarships for Thai civil servants. Speaking at a joint press conference, the Thai premier lauded the anniversary as a benchmark and said the visit would improve ties further and plan for future cooperation, highlighting plans for more high-level exchanges, including a potential visit by Singapore’s premier. Key topics included food and energy security, the green economy, and digital connectivity. “We have strong trade and investment linkages, and our defence establishments also enjoy close cooperation,” Wong noted, thanking Thailand for supporting Singapore Armed Forces training. PM Paetongtarn pledged Thailand’s commitment to bolstering Singapore’s food security by exporting premium rice and organic eggs. Human resource development, educational exchanges, and upskilling initiatives were also on the agenda. The leaders expressed mutual interest in carbon credit collaborations and expanding green power projects like hydrogen and biofuels. Wong praised Thailand’s leadership in driving the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework, calling it vital for regional integration. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to tackling shared challenges, including the Myanmar crisis, during extended consultations in Bangkok next month, reported Bangkok Post. “Thailand and Singapore are old friends,” said Wong, underscoring their vision of a greener, more connected future. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-29

Rice and shine: Parboiled prices soar as global markets heat up By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Food52 Global rice markets are heating up as prices for parboiled rice surged this week, driven by robust demand in major export hubs India and Thailand. After three weeks of stability, Indian and Thai exporters are now cashing in on renewed interest, while Vietnamese traders grapple with stagnant sales. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344956-rice-and-shine-parboiled-prices-soar-as-global-markets-heat-up/

Photo courtesy of Food52 By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Global rice markets are heating up as prices for parboiled rice surged this week, driven by robust demand in major export hubs India and Thailand. After three weeks of stability, Indian and Thai exporters are now cashing in on renewed interest, while Vietnamese traders grapple with stagnant sales. India, the world’s largest rice exporter, saw its 5% broken parboiled rice hit US$445 to US$453 per tonne, its highest since October 24, up from US$440 to US$447. Indian 5% broken white rice also rose to US$450 to US$458 per tonne, compared to last week’s US$445 to US$452, said a Kolkata-based exporter. “Demand is improving as buyers realise that prices are unlikely to fall further. They have begun placing orders.” The recent scrapping of India’s export tax on parboiled rice and the removal of a US$490-per-tonne floor price for non-basmati white rice exports has given the country a competitive edge in the global market. In Thailand, 5% broken rice prices climbed to US$510 per tonne, matching the level last seen on October 25. Traders attributed the increase to timely shipments and steady demand from regular customers. A Bangkok-based trader predicted further gains but noted that competition would intensify as India ramps up its exports. Meanwhile, Vietnam’s 5% broken rice remained steady at US$520 per tonne, with traders offering discounted rates of US$500 to US$510, said a trader in Ho Chi Minh City. “Sales are slow as both buyers and sellers are not happy with the current prices.” Vietnam’s competitiveness could take another hit next year as a newly approved 5% VAT on fertilisers, effective July 2025, is expected to increase production costs and weaken its export appeal. With shifting policies and heightened competition, the global rice trade is poised for an intense showdown in the coming months, reported Bangkok Post. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-29

File photo for reference only By Puntid Tantivangphaisal A Formula 1 race in Jakarta? That’s just one of the audacious ideas from Sugianto Kusuma, one of Indonesia’s wealthiest tycoons, as he transforms a former slum into a multibillion-dollar metropolis. From a bustling port to luxury hotels, the ambitious project is aiming to put North Jakarta on the global map. Kusuma, better known locally as Aguan, is spearheading the development of Pantai Indah Kapuk Dua (PIK 2), a sprawling US$16 billion real estate project just 15 minutes from the capital’s international airport. “It’s going to require huge spending, but we are not building everything in one go,” said Kusuma, whose Agung Sedayu Group co-owns the project. “This isn’t a short-term project, future generations can continue it.” Already a success story, PIK 2 has seen a surge in demand, with initial property sales tripling last year. Kusuma’s stock has soared by an eye-popping 70,000% since 2021, cementing its place as Indonesia’s top-performing property stock. His vision includes the country’s largest convention centre, set to open next September, a five-star global hotel, and even a race track to attract events like F1. The project, a collaboration with fellow billionaire Anthoni Salim, seeks to draw tourists to Jakarta, a city overshadowed by Bali’s allure. “Why don’t they spend a longer time in Jakarta? Because it doesn’t have much to offer. At PIK 2, we will create everything they need.” While Indonesia faces fierce competition for hosting an F1 race, Kusuma remains undeterred. The ambitious town, already boasting gated communities, restaurants, and golf courses, is being positioned as a tourist magnet with world-class infrastructure. With talks underway with partners from China and Singapore for a port, PIK 2 is shaping up to be much more than a real estate project—it’s a bold bet on Jakarta’s future, reported Bangkok Post. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-29

Bangkok's New Pet Rules: Microchips and Space Restrictions for 200,000 Cats and Dogs File photo for reference only Bangkok’s city authorities are rolling out new pet regulations, giving tens of thousands of residents one year to comply. With around 200,000 cats and dogs living in the city, including 29,000 strays, the aim is to manage the growing stray population and hold pet owners responsible for their animals. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344948-bangkoks-new-pet-rules-microchips-and-space-restrictions-for-200000-cats-and-dogs/

File photo for reference only Bangkok’s city authorities are rolling out new pet regulations, giving tens of thousands of residents one year to comply. With around 200,000 cats and dogs living in the city, including 29,000 strays, the aim is to manage the growing stray population and hold pet owners responsible for their animals. Key Changes: Microchipping and Ownership Limits Under new rules, all pet dogs and cats must be microchipped. This microchipping requirement, championed by Bangkok Metropolitan Council’s first vice chairman Napapon Chirakul, is part of a draft regulation recently approved and now awaiting the signature of Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt. Once the regulation is published in the Royal Gazette, pet owners will have a 360-day grace period to comply. After this, owners with unchipped pets will face penalties under the Public Health Act for any problems or nuisances caused by their animals. The regulation also limits the number of pets one can own, based on their living space: Condo residents with 20-80 square meters can keep one pet, with the possibility of applying for a second. Homes with up to 20 square wa (80 sqm) can accommodate two pets, with larger spaces allowing more animals. The largest homes (over 100 square wa) can house up to six pets. These limits aim to reduce nuisances like noise and waste and address hygiene concerns. Existing pet owners with multiple animals do not need to reduce their numbers. Breed-Specific Measures For breeds prone to aggression—such as Pit Bull Terriers and Rottweilers—and any dogs with violent histories, stricter controls are in place. These dogs must wear muzzles and be leashed with a one-meter lead in public, responding to recent dog attack incidents leading to severe injuries. Addressing the Stray and Shelter Capacity Issue Responding to community complaints, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is tackling the stray dog situation by taking in and sterilizing stray, dangerous, or abandoned dogs. Their main shelter in Prawet has space for about 1,000 dogs, insufficient for the demand. A second shelter in Uthai Thani provides additional capacity for 6,400 more dogs. These measures reflect a comprehensive strategy to manage the city's pet and stray animal population responsibly, focusing on accountability and safety for residents and animals alike. -- 2024-11-29