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Tensions are escalating within Thailand's government as Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Energy Minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga face off over the country's clean energy strategy. A disagreement that had been building up for weeks came to a head on November 26th, resulting in the sudden cancellation of a joint press conference after a National Energy Policy Board meeting. During a solo media address, Prime Minister Paetongtarn pushed for the Energy Ministry to speed up plans to acquire 2,000 megawatts of clean energy from private providers through the Direct Power Purchase Agreement (Direct PPA). Energy Minister Pirapan, however, instructed the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) to pause clean energy acquisitions, delaying the second phase of this policy. Sources say Pirapan has put off several renewable energy projects, including pausing the selection of Energy Regulatory Commission members, a decision that's frustrating the ruling Pheu Thai Party. Prime Minister Paetongtarn, who is a key figure in the Pheu Thai Party, has made it clear her main goal is to boost clean energy use. She stated, "This is our opportunity to make Thailand a leader in affordable, competitive clean energy." Pirapan, who is part of the coalition partner United Thai Nation Party, focused his press release on fossil fuel policies. He emphasized that the contribution rates to the energy conservation fund remain unchanged, with oil and gas companies set to continue paying 0.05 baht per litre sold while gas producers remain exempt, a measure that takes effect on December 1st. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-27

Teenager severely injured after awning collapse in Chon Buri Photo courtesy of KhaoSod An 18 year old convenience store employee was seriously injured when a house awning fell on him as he rode his motorcycle. The incident occurred yesterday, November 26, on an old city road near the Tong Toei Bridge in Phanat Nikhom, Chon Buri. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344757-teenager-severely-injured-after-awning-collapse-in-chon-buri/

An 18 year old convenience store employee was seriously injured when a house awning fell on him as he rode his motorcycle. The incident occurred yesterday, November 26, on an old city road near the Tong Toei Bridge in Phanat Nikhom, Chon Buri. Rescue volunteers from Sawang Het Baan Tung Hiang Phanat Nikhom were alerted to the accident at 5pm and arrived at the scene to find the teenager, Thanet, unconscious and unresponsive, dressed in his work uniform. He had sustained a severe head injury resulting in significant blood loss. The rescue team provided initial first aid before urgently transporting him to Phanat Nikhom Hospital. Upon investigation, the scene revealed an old zinc awning nailed to wood lying on the ground. Various tools, scaffolding, and an aluminium ladder were inside the house. A witness recounted hearing a loud noise of something heavy hitting the ground and, upon investigation, discovered the injured man lying in the road. The witness also observed a man standing at the scene, who then moved the zinc sheet onto the pavement before fleeing. Police are planning to question the homeowner further to take appropriate legal action. “I heard the sound of something heavy falling and went out to see what happened. That’s when I saw the injured man on the ground.” This alarming event highlights the potential dangers of unsecured structures and serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining safety standards in residential areas. The police are now focusing on uncovering the full details of the incident to prevent similar occurrences in the future. The young victim, Thanet, was simply on his way to work when the unforeseen accident occurred. His condition remains critical, and the medical team is working tirelessly to stabilise him. The community is left in shock and hopes for his swift recovery. Police are keen on understanding the exact circumstances leading to this unfortunate event. They are urging anyone with additional information to come forward, as it may assist in the ongoing investigation. The police emphasise the importance of such cooperation in ensuring public safety and preventing future accidents, reported KhaoSod. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-27

Phatthalung: Grandmother missing after saving boy from drowning Photo courtesy of Matichon A grandmother saved her four year old grandson as he was about to drown in a canal in Phatthalung province but the heroic act tragically cost her own life. This incident occurred when both fell into a canal after inspecting floodwaters near their home. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344756-phatthalung-grandmother-missing-after-saving-boy-from-drowning/

A grandmother saved her four year old grandson as he was about to drown in a canal in Phatthalung province but the heroic act tragically cost her own life. This incident occurred when both fell into a canal after inspecting floodwaters near their home. Police in Phatthalung received a report yesterday, November 26 at 5pm about a person missing in the water at a canal in Ban Kae Taera, Village 8, Tha Khae subdistrict, Mueang Phatthalung district. Upon arrival, officers, along with Phatthalung rescue volunteers and divers from the Phatthalung Provincial Administration Organisation, discovered only the shoe of 49 year old Chotika Promaksorn, who was swept away by the current. Her grandson, a young boy, was saved by his father and brought to safety. Witnesses recounted that before the accident, Chotika and her grandson were walking along the canal, taking pictures of the floodwaters about 50 metres from their home. Suddenly, they slipped and fell into the canal. Fortunately, the boy’s father had just returned from work and heard the cries for help. Rushing to the scene, he saw both being carried away by the water. He quickly jumped in to rescue them. Chotika managed to push her grandson towards his father, ensuring his safety, but she was unable to withstand the strong current and was swept away. Rescue teams have been tirelessly searching for Chotika but she remains missing. The community is deeply affected by this tragic event, with many expressing sorrow and admiration for Chotika’s bravery. The incident has drawn attention to the dangers posed by the floodwaters, prompting authorities to issue warnings and increase safety measures in the area. “She was a loving grandmother, always caring for her grandson. It’s heart-wrenching to see such a loss.” The police urge residents to exercise caution and report any areas that appear hazardous. The community has come together, offering support to the family and assisting in the ongoing search efforts. “We are doing everything possible to find her. The water is challenging, but we remain hopeful.” Despite the grim circumstances, the family is grateful for the survival of the young boy, who is now back in the care of his father. This event serves as a sombre reminder of the risks associated with natural disasters and the need for vigilance. The search for Chotika continues, with rescue teams committed to bringing closure to her family. As the community rallies together, the spirit of unity and support strengthens their resolve in these difficult times, reported KhaoSod. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Matichon Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-27

Thai transwomen fight over foreign client on Phuket’s Bangla Road Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ Another physical fight broke out between Thai transwomen on Soi Bangla in Phuket last night, reportedly over a dispute to win the heart, and wallet, of a foreign client. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344753-thai-transwomen-fight-over-foreign-client-on-phuket’s-bangla-road/

Another physical fight broke out between Thai transwomen on Soi Bangla in Phuket last night, reportedly over a dispute to win the heart, and wallet, of a foreign client. Local news outlet Phuket Times reported on the incident, which occurred on the yesterday, November 26. “Ladyboys! Violent altercation! Bangla Road, Patong. Fighting over a foreign client. Ignoring repeated warnings. Locals are tired of this behaviour. Many entertainment venues banned them. Some have criminal histories, including theft from foreigners. Authorities must act to protect Phuket’s tourism image before more damage is done.” Photographs shared by the media depicted two transwomen engaging in a physical fight, eventually collapsing to the ground. Other transwomen gathered around to cheer and support their respective friends. Channel 7 released CCTV footage showing a transwoman dressed in black following another dressed in white. The pair exchanged heated words before the individual in white grabbed her rival by the hair. The fight spilled onto the road, lasting several minutes before the participants were separated, seemingly without police intervention. Many netizens expressed frustration in the Phuket Times comments section about the frequent altercations involving transwomen. One Thai woman shared her personal experience, saying: “I was once walking with my foreign boyfriend when a transwoman unexpectedly slapped me in the face, accusing me of stealing her client. This behaviour is unacceptable. Authorities must address the issue.” Other commenters pointed out the negative impact such incidents have on the broader transgender community, while others found the incident a normal thing in the province. “Your actions tarnish the reputation of all transwomen. You’re harming your community’s image while working in the same area!” “Don’t be embarrassed. This kind of behaviour is normal in red-light districts. If it’s not transwomen fighting, it’s foreigners. At least transwomen don’t fight every day, foreigners do.” By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-27

Young delivery rider found fatally stabbed in Nonthaburi alley Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A tragic stabbing incident occurred in Nonthaburi, where a young delivery rider was found dead in an alley, clutching hair in both hands. The rider’s 19 year old girlfriend mourned over his body at the scene. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344751-young-delivery-rider-found-fatally-stabbed-in-nonthaburi-alley/

A tragic stabbing incident occurred in Nonthaburi, where a young delivery rider was found dead in an alley, clutching hair in both hands. The rider’s 19 year old girlfriend mourned over his body at the scene. Officers from Pak Kret Police Station were alerted to the scene shortly after midnight today, November 27, discovering the body of a male, believed to be between 20 and 25 years old, in a village alley in the Bang Talat area. The young man had sustained a knife wound on his left ribcage. Nearby, a helmet lay on the ground, and his hands clutched strands of hair, adding a grim complexity to his death. Not far from his body, two knives were discovered. One was a pointed knife, while the other resembled a blood-stained machete. Additionally, two packets of snacks were found, with one already opened. A trail of blood traced the path from where the knives were found to the location of the deceased, painting a chilling picture of the events leading up to the discovery. A red and black Honda Wave motorcycle, lacking a registration plate, was also found tipped over near the village wall, approximately 150 metres away from the body. This vehicle, suspected to belong to the deceased, added another layer of mystery to the unfolding investigation. A resident recounted that around 11.30pm yesterday November 26, a group of teenagers was heard arguing in the alley. The resident promptly contacted the police to report the disturbance. After the noise subsided, a check around midnight revealed the unconscious youth at their doorstep. The police were called again but upon their arrival, the young man had already died. “Initial reports have been documented, and CCTV footage in the alley will be reviewed to identify the perpetrators. The body has been sent to the Institute of Forensic Science for an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death.” Later, a 19 year old girl named Ping arrived at the scene. She informed the police that the deceased was her boyfriend, 18 year old Ae, who lived with his grandmother in the same village. She explained that Ae worked as a food delivery rider. Ae visited Ping at her home yesterday at around 7pm. He mentioned plans to meet a friend near Lad Pla Khao Road but was unreachable shortly after. The next news she received was of his fatal stabbing. Ping expressed her confusion over whether Ae had any conflicts with others. “I don’t know what problems he might have had with anyone. We were just living our lives, and suddenly, he’s gone.” The police continue to investigate, looking into potential motives and suspects in this case, reported KhaoSod. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-27

Thai woman wards off ‘black cat spirit’ with knife in Nakhon Sawan Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A 52 year old Thai woman in Nakhon Sawan claims that the spirit of a black cat has been causing disturbances by climbing through her window day and night. This has led her to brandish a knife to ward off the alleged spirit, causing significant concern among her children and neighbours. This incident has unfolded in Village 7, Wang Makar, Tha Tako district. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344750-thai-woman-wards-off-‘black-cat-spirit’-with-knife-in-nakhon-sawan/

A 52 year old Thai woman in Nakhon Sawan claims that the spirit of a black cat has been causing disturbances by climbing through her window day and night. This has led her to brandish a knife to ward off the alleged spirit, causing significant concern among her children and neighbours. This incident has unfolded in Village 7, Wang Makar, Tha Tako district. The situation has occurred multiple times, with videos recorded as evidence, leaving residents and community leaders worried. The woman in question, Lampduan, has been undergoing treatment for over two months without improvement, often swinging a knife, which has made her family fearful of her possibly becoming frenzied. Through media, she has pleaded for help from a spiritual healer known as Mor Pla, whom she repeatedly calls for assistance. “Recently, strange things have been happening to me. Someone keeps shaking my door, and I’ve asked the media to look into a house supposedly casting spells on mine, but I don’t know where it is. No one believes or helps me, and I am pleading for Mor Pla’s intervention.” Lampduan’s son, Sonram, expressed confusion about his mother’s condition, noting that she has taken to holding a knife and chanting odd incantations. There have been instances where she has attempted to harm herself, oscillating between moments of awareness and oblivion. This behaviour has persisted for several months, intensifying in the past three to four days. “I’ve taken my mother to hospitals in Chon Buri and Nakhon Sawan, but there’s been no improvement. We’ve tried modern medicine and spiritual rituals, but nothing has worked. I really hope Mor Pla can help.” Doctor Keng Klamkhun from Tha Tako Hospital has investigated Lampduan’s medical history, discovering that she has been treated for an autoimmune disorder at hospitals in Chon Buri and Nakhon Sawan. Despite her relatives’ efforts to seek hospital treatment, Lampduan insists on being treated by Mor Pla. Throughout the reporter’s observation over several hours, Lampduan was seen speaking incoherently, with only a mention of buying lottery number 885 for December 16 being discernible, reported KhaoSod. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-27

Thai national caught smuggling Chinese nationals across border Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Royal Thai Police (RTP) foiled a brazen attempt to smuggle a group of Chinese nationals across the Thai-Myanmar border, using hidden natural routes to dodge detection. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344749-thai-national-caught-smuggling-chinese-nationals-across-border/

Royal Thai Police (RTP) foiled a brazen attempt to smuggle a group of Chinese nationals across the Thai-Myanmar border, using hidden natural routes to dodge detection. The incident unfolded last night, November 26, when sharp-eyed patrol units from the Rachamanu Special Task Force and the Naresuan Force spotted a group making their sneaky entry into Thailand by river. Among those caught red-handed was Tananchai, a 28 year old Thai national, leading the venture with four motorbikes on standby to whisk the group further inland. As officers closed in, three accomplices ditched their bikes and melted into the night, disappearing into the dense forest as darkness fell. The illegal entrants, identified as 18 year old Tan Tan, 19 year old Lan Lan, 31 year old Ahang, 18 year old Atan and 21 year old Wang Jun Ming, were all under Tananchai’s charge. Confessing his role in the smuggling plan, Tananchai revealed he was picking up the Chinese party in Thong Chai village to pass them off to another contact. His reward? A meagre 1,000 baht per head—until their luck ran out in the glare of military intervention. “I was supposed to hand them over to someone else along the route. I did not expect to be caught by the military.” Illegal border crossings Post-capture, the entire party, including Tananchai, was escorted to Phop Phra Police Station for legal proceedings, reported KhaoSod. This incident casts a spotlight on the relentless challenges in curbing illegal border crossings along the porous Thai-Myanmar divide. With its rugged landscapes and maze of natural tracks, the region is a favoured conduit for smugglers and unauthorised migrants. The RTP police and border guards remain ever-watchful, employing a blend of manpower and cutting-edge tech to patrol the extensive borders. The collaboration between military units and task forces has proven critical in keeping the ground secure, and thwarting illegal entries before they happen. This latest enforcement action underscores the perpetual effort required to protect Thailand’s borders. Situated strategically in Southeast Asia, Thailand often serves as a transit zone for those eyeing new opportunities across borders. The nation’s resolve to uphold immigration laws is evident in these ongoing operations, aimed at severing illegal entry chains. Catching Tananchai and the group not only signals triumph at a local level but also flags the urgency for international cooperation in addressing cross-border challenges. While hardcore local enforcement is non-negotiable, liaising with neighbouring countries is equally key to eradicating the push factors behind illegal migration and smuggling rings. By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-27

Thai man swindles 1.1 million baht from Chinese man Photo via Amarin TV Police arrested a 26 year old Thai man for defrauding a Chinese national of 1.1 million baht. He claimed to have close connections with a senior police officer and offered to secure the release of the Chinese national’s friend from detention. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344747-thai-man-swindles-11-million-baht-from-chinese-man/

Police arrested a 26 year old Thai man for defrauding a Chinese national of 1.1 million baht. He claimed to have close connections with a senior police officer and offered to secure the release of the Chinese national’s friend from detention. The Chinese national filed a complaint against the 26 year old Thai man named Thanajit in March last year over fraud. The incident began when his friend was arrested for violating the Computer Crimes Act, and their bail request was denied. Seeking to secure his friend’s release, the Chinese man approached Thanajit. Thanajit falsely claimed that his father was a soldier and that he had close ties with a deputy commissioner of the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB). He ensured the Chinese man that he could bail his friend out with his connections. In September, Thanajit requested an initial payment of 50,000 baht, claiming he needed the funds to entertain CIB officers. The money was transferred to a bank account belonging to another Thai man named Nirundon, whom Thanajit falsely identified as his father. On the same day, Thanajit demanded an additional 42,000 baht, which was transferred to a bank account belonging to a third party, a Thai man named Naphapok. Thanajit continued to demand money from the Chinese national, claiming he needed to bribe officials or host extravagant meals for senior government officers to secure the bail. Eventually, the Chinese man and his Thai girlfriend grew suspicious of Thanajit’s claims. They noticed inconsistencies, such as the lack of a police insignia on documents linked to Thanajit’s supposed father. When they tried to follow up on the case, Thanajit avoided their calls. The couple decided to file a police report on April 28 this year, revealing that they were defrauded of 1.1 million baht. On November 25, police arrested Thanajit at his rented room in Soi Pattanakarn 10/1 in Bangkok’s Suan Luang district. The suspect admitted to his crimes and confessed that he had spent the money on personal expenses. The man also revealed that he had been evading arrest by moving between provinces and had only recently returned to Bangkok. Thanajit has been charged under Section 342 of the Criminal Code for committing fraud. If found guilty, he faces a penalty of up to five years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to 10,000 baht, or both. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Amarin TV Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-27

Dashcam footage exposes foreign man attack on tuk tuk driver - video Photo via Facebook/ อยากดังเดี๋ยวจัดให้ รีเทริน์ part 7 A Thai woman took to social media to search for a foreign man who attacked a Thai tuk tuk driver during a ride on a road in the Isaan province of Khon Kaen. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344744-dashcam-footage-exposes-foreign-man-attack-on-tuk-tuk-driver-video/

A Thai woman took to social media to search for a foreign man who attacked a Thai tuk tuk driver during a ride on a road in the Isaan province of Khon Kaen. The woman, who witnessed the physical assault, shared dashcam footage of the incident with a local news Facebook page to draw the attention of the police and relevant officials. The page then shared the video with the public yesterday, November 26. The witness explained that she and her father were on their way to a shopping mall when they encountered the assault at a roundabout near the mall. The foreign man suddenly punched the tuk tuk driver and grabbed him by the shirt collar. The woman said she later posted the video on her social media account and received information from a friend, an app-based taxi driver, who claimed to have encountered the same foreigner before. According to her friend, the man had pointed fingers at people nearby and verbally scolded them. She shared with netizens that she did not leave her car to assist the tuk tuk driver because her father advised her to stay away for safety. She believed the driver sustained only minor injuries, as she saw him again in another location later the same day. The woman urged the police and relevant officials to issue a warning to the foreign man to refrain from violent behaviour, while netizens called for his deportation. As of now, there is no further updates on the case, and the tuk tuk driver has not taken legal action against the foreign passenger. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ อยากดังเดี๋ยวจัดให้ รีเทริน์ part 7 Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-27

Netflix star smuggles her way out of jail despite £150k cannabis bust - video Picture courtesy of Pinterest In a sensational twist right out of a crime thriller, Netflix star Olga Bednarska incredibly escaped a long prison sentence despite being nabbed at Manchester Airport smuggling cannabis worth £150,000 (6.75 million baht) through customs. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344743-netflix-star-smuggles-her-way-out-of-jail-despite-£150k-cannabis-bust-video/

In a sensational twist right out of a crime thriller, Netflix star Olga Bednarska incredibly escaped a long prison sentence despite being nabbed at Manchester Airport smuggling cannabis worth £150,000 (6.75 million baht) through customs. The star of Netflix’s hit reality show Too Hot to Handle, found herself entangled in a scandalous drug-smuggling affair after Manchester Airport customs officers intercepted the 27 year old, as she returned from Thailand, and uncovered nearly 40 kilogrammes of cannabis stashed inside her luggage. The glamorous jet-setter faced a turbulent descent from the glamorous heights of social media fame to the stark reality of the legal system, as she pleaded guilty to her role in the sinister scheme. Bednarska initially spun an elaborate tale, claiming she’d been enlisted by a mysterious friend called “Tex” to transport designer clothes and luxury watches back to the UK. She assured police that every item in her luggage was personally packed. Yet, under the intense scrutiny of border officials, her story quickly unravelled. In a courtroom drama laid bare by Samuel Eskdale, prosecuting, details emerged of Bednarska’s arrival at Manchester Airport from Phuket on October 20. Carrying two hefty suitcases, she was stopped by Border Force officers. During initial questioning, Bednarska confidently asserted that she had packed her bags herself and swore she was not a mule for anyone. But when asked to unlock the suitcases, she faltered. She couldn’t recall the unlock codes. That’s when the true narrative emerged: these weren’t bags she packed herself, but ones handed to her at the airport. Inside were numerous vacuum-sealed packages of cannabis, weighing in at a staggering 39.4 kilogrammes, a haul valued at approximately £157,600. Despite this spectacular fall from grace, Bednarska appeared poised to avoid prison. With no prior convictions to her name and having already spent time in custody since her arrest in October, Judge John Potter offered her a lifeline, delivering a suspended sentence. “I am not going to send you to prison—that means you will be released from custody.” The sympathetic judge acknowledged her mounting financial troubles, detailing the £16,000 she owed in work, rent, and other expenses. In an attempt to eradicate these debts, Bednarska had turned to “desperate but highly unlawful means.” Admitting she had agreed to transport what she believed to be designer goods on behalf of a friend’s acquaintance, she stood to earn £18,000 (810,000 baht). Judge Potter emphasised the naivety of her choices: flying to Thailand on October 10, depositing herself into a scenario where she was met by an associate, pampered with complimentary hotel accommodation and handed spending cash to sweeten the deal. “You decided to place your trust in someone you hardly knew. You were acting under the direction of others, potentially for further profit.” Suspended sentence The judge reminded Bednarska of the damaging repercussions her actions could have had on communities. Bednarska, originally from Poland but residing in Newcastle, now faces 20 months of imprisonment suspended for two years, alongside 15 days of requirements for rehabilitation activities. Though her role in season three of Netflix’s Too Hot to Handle shone a glamorous spotlight, this chapter of her life casts a stark shadow of caution over the intoxicating lure of risky endeavours. Ironically, Manchester Airport has become a haven for drug smuggling activity. A British dad of three has been sentenced to two years behind bars for an audacious attempt to smuggle nearly £100,000 (4.4 million baht) worth of cannabis from Thailand. The 42 year old British man, gripped by grief and desperation after the death of his girlfriend, confessed he took the illicit gamble in hopes of using the cash to reunite with his estranged children. Platt’s elaborate scheme unravelled upon landing at Manchester Airport, having flown in from a so-called holiday in Phuket. Enticed by the promise of £10,000 and a Thai getaway, his smuggling dreams ended when eagle-eyed Border Force officers intercepted him, recognising his hefty suitcase as a potential red flag. Last week, a down-and-out drug mule took a gamble to clear a debt to his mother and lost big time at Manchester Airport. Dean Pharoah, who owed cash to his mum, tried to smuggle over £200,000 (approximately 8 million baht) worth of cannabis into the UK after a holiday in Thailand. But UK Border Force officers had their suspicions and swooped as he passed through the Nothing to Declare channel, putting an end to his high-stakes plan. By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Pinterest Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-27

Thailand to attract over 40 million sun-seeking tourists - video Picture courtesy of Thailand.co.th Thailand is pulling out all the stops with the daring Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025 campaign, setting its sights on luring over 40 million globe-trotters to its sun-kissed shores. This tourism boom is forecasted to pump a staggering 3.4 trillion baht into the economy, promising a hefty windfall for the nation’s coffers. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344742-thailand-to-attract-over-40-million-sun-seeking-tourists-video/

Thailand is pulling out all the stops with the daring Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025 campaign, setting its sights on luring over 40 million globe-trotters to its sun-kissed shores. This tourism boom is forecasted to pump a staggering 3.4 trillion baht into the economy, promising a hefty windfall for the nation’s coffers. Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit, the powerhouse behind the national tourism policy committee, stressed the pivotal role of tourism as an economic dynamo, boosting both income and job creation. The grand plan? A dazzling array of events and exclusive perks to entice international visitors. Central to this tourism renaissance are five mega-campaigns: Grand Festivity, Grand Moment, Grand Privilege, Grand Invitation, and Grand Celebration. The Tourism and Sports Ministry is hard at work crafting these initiatives, readying them for cabinet approval, with the full details slated for a grand unveiling next month. A boost for airlines, hotels, online travel agencies, and enticing visa privileges are all part of the comprehensive strategy. A jam-packed calendar featuring major tourism events and festivals will soon hit the stands, aiding travellers in planning their Thai escapades. Highlights include the thrilling MotoGP races in February and March and April’s iconic Songkran festival, all key elements in the year-long celebration. Minister Suriya underscored the vital collaboration needed across various sectors to safeguard tourist safety and enhance Thailand’s reputation on the world stage. Infrastructure improvements and streamlined visa processes, including the innovative pan-ASEAN common visa, will play crucial roles in hitting the ambitious 3.4 trillion baht revenue target for 2025. Already, impressive figures from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports show that Thailand has welcomed 31,313,787 foreign visitors from January 1 to date, collectively spending around 1.46 trillion baht. Leading the charge are Chinese tourists, followed by holidaymakers from Malaysia, India, South Korea, and Russia. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has spotlighted three core strategies for this tourism juggernaut: “Thai charms,” “hidden gem cities,” and “five must-dos.” These strategies aim to shine a light on Thailand’s rich cultural tapestry, showcase underrated destinations, and weave Thai cuisine, culture, and local treasures into enticing travel routes and festivals, reported Bangkok Post. The 38 year old Thai premier has ambitious targets: a 7.5% boost in tourism revenue, eyeing 3.4 trillion baht from over 40 million visitors next year, while also invigorating domestic tourism with more than 205 million trips. Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025 is poised to solidify Thailand’s status as a global tourism titan, with meticulously laid plans ready to deliver impressive economic rewards. By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Thailand.co.th Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-27

South Korean influencer sparks concern regarding Thai work permit Photo courtesy of Ji Gamin IG via KhaoSod The Economic Crime Suppression Division (ECD) is being urged to investigate the activities of South Korean Internet celebrity Ji Gamin. Concerns focus on whether Ji operated within legal parameters during her time in Thailand, including work authorisation and tax compliance. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344741-south-korean-influencer-sparks-concern-regarding-thai-work-permit/

The Economic Crime Suppression Division (ECD) is being urged to investigate the activities of South Korean Internet celebrity Ji Gamin. Concerns focus on whether Ji operated within legal parameters during her time in Thailand, including work authorisation and tax compliance. Songchai Niamhom, who leads the Prachapak Phithak Sathaban group, formally submitted a complaint to Major General Phutthidet Boonkrapue, head of the ECD yesterday, November 26. The complaint outlines four specific areas of concern regarding the South Korean influencer’s presence and activities in Thailand. The first point of investigation involves allegations that Ji entered Thailand using an incorrect type of passport, possibly to evade obtaining a Non-Immigrant “B” visa, which is required for individuals intending to work in the country. Questions have been raised about whether the influencer has been performing work on an expired or non-existent work permit, casting doubt over the legitimacy of her professional activities in Thailand. Further scrutiny is requested to ascertain whether South Korean nationals have adhered to tax regulations in Thailand. If found in violation, this could have serious implications, not only for the influencer but also for the entities employing or collaborating with her. “The intention behind submitting this letter is to request that the ECD thoroughly investigates Ji’s activities to ensure they are compliant with Thai law, particularly concerning her entry into Thailand, work authorisation, and income tax declarations.” The concerns raised by Songchai and his group highlight the broader issue of compliance with Thai immigration and employment laws by foreign nationals. This is not an isolated case, as Thailand has become a popular destination for foreign influencers and celebrities seeking to expand their reach in Southeast Asian markets. This rise in popularity, however, also demands stricter enforcement of legal requirements to ensure that all individuals are operating fairly and within legal constraints, said Songchai. “In recent years, we have seen an increase in the number of foreign nationals working in Thailand, especially in the entertainment and social media sectors. We must uphold our laws to maintain fairness and legality in the job market.” Ji has not publicly responded to the allegations or the ongoing investigation as of yet. The South Korean influencer’s social media platforms, which boast a significant following, remain active but do not currently address the situation. In the coming days, it is expected that the ECD will conduct a thorough investigation into the claims made in the submitted letter. This will involve examining Ji’s visa status, work permits, and any tax records or declarations made during her stay in Thailand, reported KhaoSod. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Ji Gamin IG via KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-27

Koi Fish Cafe in Chon Buri Shut Down for Health Regulation Breaches Photo: The Thaiger On Saturday, the Department of Health announced the closure of a unique koi fish cafe in Chon Buri, popular for allowing customers to dine while interacting with koi fish. Health authorities cited concerns over potential health risks to both patrons and the ornamental fish due to public health regulation violations. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344651-koi-fish-cafe-in-chon-buri-shut-down-for-health-regulation-breaches/

On Saturday, the Department of Health announced the closure of a unique koi fish cafe in Chon Buri, popular for allowing customers to dine while interacting with koi fish. Health authorities cited concerns over potential health risks to both patrons and the ornamental fish due to public health regulation violations. Dr. Thiti Sawaengtham, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Health, stated that a thorough investigation was launched by Health Centre Region 6 in Chon Buri, in collaboration with local officials from the Chon Buri Provincial Health Office, Sriracha District Health Office, and Bang Phra Municipality. The cafe, which spanned a compact 4x4 metre area, featured a tiled floor filled with 15 to 20 centimetres of water housing the koi fish. Patrons had to wash their feet with potassium permanganate mixed with water before entering. The area accommodated four tables with 12 seats and included amenities such as an air-conditioning unit, three water filtration points, and a ventilation system. Wastewater was processed through an underground filtration system. Inspections revealed that the cafe was operating without the necessary permits and did not meet the Ministry of Public Health’s 2018 hygiene standards for food establishments. Concerns were raised about potential contaminants or pathogens being transmitted through the koi fish. The cafe also violated the 1992 Public Health Act by running without a permit for food service and storage, not adhering to hygiene standards, and lacking a license for activities considered hazardous to health, like placing animals near food services. Dr. Suthat Chaiyos, director of Health Centre Region 6, announced that the cafe must close immediately and remain shut until it secures all required permits. The owner has a seven-day window to submit the necessary applications. The Department of Health is urging local health officials to inspect similar businesses in the area to ensure compliance with public health regulations. Photo: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-26