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Early Check-In Coming to Suvarnabhumi Airport by February File photo for reference only Suvarnabhumi International Airport will begin offering an early check-in service by February. This new service allows passengers to check in up to 24 hours before their flight. The Transport Ministry announced this on social media, explaining that the goal is to make travel easier and to cut down on congestion at Thailand’s main international airport. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343367-early-check-in-coming-to-suvarnabhumi-airport-by-february/

Suvarnabhumi International Airport will begin offering an early check-in service by February. This new service allows passengers to check in up to 24 hours before their flight. The Transport Ministry announced this on social media, explaining that the goal is to make travel easier and to cut down on congestion at Thailand’s main international airport. Kerati Kijmanawat, President of Airports of Thailand (AoT), confirmed that they expect to start this service by February. Additionally, they plan to build a children's playground, also by February, and increase the non-commercial space in the terminal by the end of next year. "These enhancements are part of our plan to make Suvarnabhumi Airport one of the top 20 best airports in the world in the next five years," Kerati stated. At present, Suvarnabhumi is ranked 58th globally by Skytrax and is the third-best airport in Southeast Asia, behind Changi Airport in Singapore and Soekarno-Hatta Airport in Jakarta. Kerati noted in September that one reason for the low ranking is the airport's lack of facilities compared to others in cities like Singapore and Tokyo. Improving these facilities is essential for better passenger experiences and higher rankings. There are plans to increase the airport's capacity to handle 150 million passengers each year within five years. This will require expanding the existing terminal and building a new one to serve the rising number of travelers. Currently, the airport serves nearly 60 million passengers annually, making these upgrades important for future requirements. Overall, these strategic improvements aim to elevate Suvarnabhumi as a top airport in the region and worldwide, showcasing Thailand's dedication to advancing its aviation services and infrastructure. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-12

UPDATE: Thai Government Adds 3 Extra Holidays for 2025 and 2026 File photo for reference only The Thai government has decided to add three special public holidays for 2025 and 2026, bringing the total number of official holidays to 21 for next year. These extra days are intended to make existing holiday periods longer. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343316-thai-cabinet-proposes-extra-holidays-for-2025/?do=findComment&comment=19376704

Thai Government Adds 3 Extra Holidays for 2025 and 2026 The Thai government has decided to add three special public holidays for 2025 and 2026, bringing the total number of official holidays to 21 for next year. These extra days are intended to make existing holiday periods longer. Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai shared this news after a Cabinet meeting today at Government House. The first new holiday will be on Monday, June 2, 2025. This will extend the break from May 31 to June 3, connecting it to the Queen’s Birthday festivities. Another new holiday will be on Monday, August 11, 2025, providing a four-day break from August 9 to August 12 in honor of National Mother’s Day. The last added holiday is on Friday, January 2, 2026. This will create a five-day holiday from December 31, 2025, to January 4, 2026, to celebrate the New Year. “These additional holidays are meant to give people more time to relax and spend with family, while also boosting domestic travel,” Phumtham stated. By increasing the number of holidays, the government aims to stimulate the economy by encouraging more local travel during long weekends. This is expected to benefit local businesses and the tourism sector, positively impacting the economy. Public holidays play an important role in promoting domestic tourism in Thailand. With these new holidays, many people are expected to travel more within the country, visiting various places and engaging in cultural and leisure activities. A Ministry of Tourism official commented, “The extra holidays are expected to provide significant economic benefits, as more travel and tourism will increase local business revenues and create jobs.” File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-12

Thai woman arrested in Samut Prakan for Shopee investment fraud Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Cyber police apprehended a woman involved in a fraudulent investment scheme targeting a 70 year old victim, claiming to be a Shopee employee and luring the victim into a fake investment opportunity, leading to a loss of nearly 2 million baht. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343366-thai-woman-arrested-in-samut-prakan-for-shopee-investment-fraud/

Cyber police apprehended a woman involved in a fraudulent investment scheme targeting a 70 year old victim, claiming to be a Shopee employee and luring the victim into a fake investment opportunity, leading to a loss of nearly 2 million baht. The arrest was made today following an investigation led by Jirawat Payungtham, Deputy Commissioner of the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB), alongside other senior officers. They instructed Panawat Kalasri, an officer at the CCIB and his team to arrest 35 year old Ratchapak from Nakhon Ratchasima. The suspect was apprehended under a warrant issued by the Taling Chan Criminal Court, dated November 7, on charges of jointly defrauding the public by impersonating another person, fraudulently introducing false computer data likely to cause damage to the public, and allowing others to use bank accounts or electronic accounts without intending to use them for personal activities, knowing they would be used for criminal activities related to technology or other criminal offences. The arrest took place on a public road in front of a house within a village in Soi Sridan 22, Bang Kaew subdistrict, Bang Phli district, Samut Prakan province. The operation was set in motion after a 70 year old victim expressed interest in investing through a well-known online sales platform. Upon searching the Internet, the victim encountered a fraudulent website that appeared to be a legitimate platform. The site instructed the victim to invest in completing tasks within the system, claiming that orders would be placed and that the victim had to front the money for purchasing goods. The plan promised that once the goods were received from the supplier, they would be sold at a higher price, and the victim would profit from the price difference. The victim, believing the claims, transferred money on three occasions, amounting to nearly 2 million baht but received no return on the investment. During the interrogation, the suspect admitted that she was interested in opening an online bank account through the Play Store. She searched for a banking app, registered with a particular bank, and opened an online account but never used it again. Later, she discovered that her account had been used for illegal activities. The police have taken her into custody for further legal proceedings, reported KhaoSod. “We are committed to tracking down and apprehending those involved in such fraudulent activities to protect the public and ensure justice is served.” By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-12

Drunk foreigner shocks Phuket woman by entering her unlocked car Photo by วุฒิพงษ์ แบงค์ พิบูลย์ via Facebook group/ ขับรถแบบนี้ต้องประจาน ภูเก็ต A Thai man took to social media to issue a warning to locals in Phuket after a drunk foreign man entered his girlfriend’s unlocked car last night leaving her in shock. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343365-drunk-foreigner-shocks-phuket-woman-by-entering-her-unlocked-car/

A Thai man took to social media to issue a warning to locals in Phuket after a drunk foreign man entered his girlfriend’s unlocked car last night leaving her in shock. The Thai man, Wuttipong “Bank” Phibun, shared the story in a Facebook group, ขับรถแบบนี้ต้องประจาน ภูเก็ต (meaning “bad drivers in Phuket must be exposed”), today, November 12. He revealed that the incident occurred last night along the road by Patong Beach. Bank explained that his girlfriend parked her black sedan in the left lane to buy something from a roadside stall. After finishing her shopping, she returned to the car but did not lock it. She was sitting in the driver’s seat, using her phone, when the foreigner suddenly entered the vehicle and sat in the passenger seat next to her. Bank’s girlfriend was alarmed and immediately exited the car to seek help from a group of motorcycle taxi riders nearby. The taxi riders approached her car and attempted to persuade the foreign man to leave but he would not comply. In the photos shared by Bank, the foreign man can be seen sitting in the passenger seat with his shoes left outside the car. Bank noted that the man appeared to be under the influence of alcohol and his girlfriend also detected the smell of cannabis on him. Bank went on to explain that his girlfriend decided to call the police, which eventually led the foreign man to agree to exit the car. However, as the police prepared to leave the scene, the foreigner tried to re-enter the vehicle, prompting the officers to restrain him until Bank’s girlfriend safely left. Bank didn’t place all the blame on the foreign man and acknowledged his girlfriend’s oversight in failing to lock the car. He urged drivers, especially women, to lock their doors immediately after entering their vehicles for their safety. Bank remarked that they were fortunate the foreigner did not have harmful intentions, noting that the situation could have been far worse if he had. He also expressed gratitude to the taxi riders and police officers who assisted his girlfriend. Some online netizens speculated that the foreign man might mistake the car for a taxi, hoping to return to his accommodation. A taxi driver suggested that officials could help prevent such incidents by removing unregistered taxi services and implementing stricter regulations on taxi registration. By Petch Petpailin Photo by วุฒิพงษ์ แบงค์ พิบูลย์ via Facebook group/ ขับรถแบบนี้ต้องประจาน ภูเก็ต Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-12

British Man Tells Story of Life in Bangkok Prison in New Book File photo for reference only A British man shares his tough experiences in a new book about his time in one of Thailand's most notorious prisons after being caught smuggling heroin into the country. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343363-british-man-tells-story-of-life-in-bangkok-prison-in-new-book/

A British man shares his tough experiences in a new book about his time in one of Thailand's most notorious prisons after being caught smuggling heroin into the country. Johnathan Wheeler, from Holbury, Hampshire, shares his difficult journey in the book "The Tiger Cage," about his nearly 20 years behind bars in Bangkok for drug trafficking. In 1993, at 33 years old and a martial arts enthusiast, Wheeler went to Thailand hoping for a new beginning. He wanted to open a restaurant but needed money. Desperate, he decided to smuggle four pounds of heroin, worth over £1 million (42 million baht), for a payment of £10,000 (420,000 baht). His plan failed at Bangkok airport, where he was arrested and sent to Bangkwang Central Prison with a 50-year sentence hanging over him and the threat of the death penalty. Now 64, Wheeler tells his story, written with Nick Ford. “Nick and I spent two years meeting regularly, talking for hours on the phone, and exchanging many texts. That's why you can hear my voice and emotions so clearly in this book.” After serving 18 challenging years, Wheeler was released thanks to an amnesty for the Queen of Thailand’s 80th birthday. He returned to the UK, reunited with his family, and found work in asbestos removal. He reflects on his darkest moments, like when he was kept in a dark cell for months and used toothpaste on his skin to get a hospital bed to sleep on. Despite the difficulties, his release was both joyful and bittersweet. “When I thought I might be shot in the back, I felt all the color leave my face. My early confession saved me from death row, but missing the chance to see my grandmother before her death is a deep regret.” Wheeler has reunited with his daughter, who was just a child when he was imprisoned. His story is one of survival and coming back from tough times. For those interested in his powerful story, "The Tiger Cage" is available on Amazon and other book retailers. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-12

EHang EH216-S eVTOL Takes Flight in Thailand's Skies File photo for reference only In an unprecedented event, the Chinese aviation technology company EHang introduced its EH216-S pilotless electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft in Thailand. This milestone occurred during the Thailand Drone Exhibition & Symposium 2024, positioning Thailand as the 18th nation to host EHang's cutting-edge eVTOL flights. Endorsed by the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT), this advancement could revolutionise urban mobility for both tourists and locals, offering a novel way to navigate Thailand's urban landscapes and picturesque islands. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343362-ehang-eh216-s-evtol-takes-flight-in-thailands-skies/

In an unprecedented event, the Chinese aviation technology company EHang introduced its EH216-S pilotless electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft in Thailand. This milestone occurred during the Thailand Drone Exhibition & Symposium 2024, positioning Thailand as the 18th nation to host EHang's cutting-edge eVTOL flights. Endorsed by the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT), this advancement could revolutionise urban mobility for both tourists and locals, offering a novel way to navigate Thailand's urban landscapes and picturesque islands. Over three days, spectators watched in awe as the EH216-S soared above Thai airspace, equipped with the necessary Demonstration Flight Permit from CAAT. The aircraft's ability to carry passengers without the need for traditional runways presents a promising solution to alleviate Thailand's notorious traffic woes and efficiently link its numerous islands. EHang's Chief Financial Officer, Conor Yang, remarked on the significance of the event: “The debut passenger flights of our EH216-S pilotless eVTOL in Thailand is a key milestone in EHang’s ongoing international development and a strong boost in promoting the transformation of global advanced urban air mobility.” Looking ahead, CAAT plans to push forward with further tests and aims to commence eVTOL commercial operations by 2025, targeting popular locations such as Phuket and Koh Samui. Suttipong Kongpool, Director of CAAT, shared his vision for Thailand's role in the urban air mobility (UAM) sector: “EHang’s EH216-S is currently the world’s only eVTOL with airworthiness certificates, and we look forward to its commercial flight operations in certain areas of Thailand next year, which will serve as a significant contribution to Thailand’s UAM roadmap development plan.” Backed by the CAAT and Ministry of Transport, EHang's pilotless eVTOL could offer a transformative approach to Thai air travel, turning remote destinations into accessible, scenic journeys. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-12

Surge in Coconut Prices Boosts Trang Farmers' Profits File photo for reference only Trang province's coconut farmers are in high spirits as the market price for coconuts has doubled, soaring to 20 baht each. This financial windfall is set to bring earnings over 30,000 baht for local farmers, attracting keen traders wanting to buy entire plantations. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343361-surge-in-coconut-prices-boosts-trang-farmers-profits/

Trang province's coconut farmers are in high spirits as the market price for coconuts has doubled, soaring to 20 baht each. This financial windfall is set to bring earnings over 30,000 baht for local farmers, attracting keen traders wanting to buy entire plantations. At the heart of this shift is Suthep Wattanavatchara, a 64-year-old who manages an integrated agricultural garden in Huai Yot district. Once a state enterprise employee, Suthep dedicated 7 rai of his land to mixed farming, including a successful yield of 170 Chumphon 2 coconut trees. Suthep initially sold his coconuts for 8 baht each. However, due to drought-related supply shortages, prices have surged, fundamentally transforming his business. Unlike many, Suthep's strategic access to water from the Khlong Thang Ngiu Reservoir—a royal initiative—has allowed his plantation to flourish despite widespread drought struggles. Growing coconuts, Suthep notes, is relatively straightforward with regular fertilisation and salt. His plantation now thrives, with traders eager to purchase coconuts directly at elevated prices. Reflective of broader trends, this rise in the coconut market highlights changing climate and market dynamics that farmers in Trang and across regions face. Adaptability, it seems, is key to capitalising on newfound opportunities. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-12

Thailand's Major Bust: 5.2M Meth Pills Seized in Saraburi File photo for reference only In a significant blow to Thailand's drug trade, authorities have seized over 5 million methamphetamine pills in one of the country's largest recent busts. Last Friday, Provincial Police Region 1 officials intercepted a cache of 5.2 million pills on Sudbantad Road in the Kaeng Koi district of Saraburi. The operation was led by acting commissioner Silpakom Iamwong. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343360-thailands-major-bust-52m-meth-pills-seized-in-saraburi/

In a significant blow to Thailand's drug trade, authorities have seized over 5 million methamphetamine pills in one of the country's largest recent busts. Last Friday, Provincial Police Region 1 officials intercepted a cache of 5.2 million pills on Sudbantad Road in the Kaeng Koi district of Saraburi. The operation was led by acting commissioner Silpakom Iamwong. The meth pills, expertly stashed in 12 sacks, were hidden within a pickup truck bearing Bangkok registration plates. The vehicle was in the possession of 47-year-old Phusit, colloquially known as Bang Sup. During questioning, Phusit admitted he was offered 30,000 baht to transport the narcotics from northeastern regions to central provinces, claiming it was his first illicit venture. Charges have been levied against Phusit for drug possession with intent to distribute. The confiscated drugs have a street value estimated at 167 million baht. Investigators are now delving deeper, aiming to dismantle the wider distribution network and bring more culprits to justice, as confirmed by Silpakom Iamwong in a press briefing. The investigation proceeds, reflecting Thailand's intensified efforts against drug trafficking. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-12

Pattaya's Walking Street Dazzles with New 3D LED Display File photo for reference only Pattaya's Walking Street has just upped the ante in its famous nightlife scene. On Saturday, November 9, the iconic strip lit up with a massive 3D LED screen, captivating both local and international tourists. This state-of-the-art addition has fast become a highlight, transforming the bustling area into a must-visit destination. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343359-pattayas-walking-street-dazzles-with-new-3d-led-display/

Pattaya's Walking Street has just upped the ante in its famous nightlife scene. On Saturday, November 9, the iconic strip lit up with a massive 3D LED screen, captivating both local and international tourists. This state-of-the-art addition has fast become a highlight, transforming the bustling area into a must-visit destination. The extravagant screen, aimed at enhancing Pattaya's allure, delivers stunning 3D visuals that leave spectators spellbound. Word of the spectacle spread quickly, with visitors capturing the phenomenal display on their smartphones and flooding social media with their dazzling shots. It's already a sensation on Instagram, solidifying Pattaya’s status as a modern, buzzing hub of activity. Tourists are impressed. "It makes Pattaya feel so much more modern," one visitor said, capturing the sentiment of many who believe the screen injects fresh energy into the city’s nightlife. This is a boon not only for entertainment but also for the local economy, as increased foot traffic means more business for local establishments. This exciting addition may just be the start of Pattaya’s broader ambitions to draw tourists seeking vibrant, urban experiences. With innovative attractions like the 3D screen, Pattaya is embracing its potential as a premier nightlife and tourism hotspot. Photo: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-12

Thailand Revamps Coal Power Units to Ensure Cheap Electricity File photo for reference only In a bid to stabilise electricity prices amid rising energy costs, the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) is refurbishing two vital coal-fired power units in Lampang. This comes as part of EGAT's strategy to extend the lifespan of Units 8 and 9, each generating 320 megawatts, crucial for reducing Thailand's dependence on pricey imported liquefied natural gas (LNG). Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343357-thailand-revamps-coal-power-units-to-ensure-cheap-electricity/

In a bid to stabilise electricity prices amid rising energy costs, the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) is refurbishing two vital coal-fired power units in Lampang. This comes as part of EGAT's strategy to extend the lifespan of Units 8 and 9, each generating 320 megawatts, crucial for reducing Thailand's dependence on pricey imported liquefied natural gas (LNG). The initiative aims to keep electricity affordable by opting for coal, a cheaper resource compared to imported LNG, which now makes up a significant portion of Thailand’s power production fuels. EGAT's maintenance approach seeks to enhance the efficiency of these units without a full overhaul, aligning with plans to manage power tariffs and associated electricity costs. A feasibility study, scheduled for completion by 2025, will assess necessary refurbishments and financial implications. This study is vital as previous attempts to upgrade these ageing units stumbled due to poor interest in the high-cost bidding process. Furthermore, in support of Thailand's 2024 power development plan, which prioritises decreased fossil fuel usage and increased renewable energy adoption, EGAT is also moving forward with a project to build a 700MW gas-fired plant. This new facility is expected to be operational by 2027, complementing efforts to diversify the energy mix and ensure a reliable supply. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-12

Thailand's Pet Food Exports Soar 31%, Raking 80 Billion Baht File photo for reference only Thailand's pet food exports have surged by approximately 31% in the first nine months of the year, generating around 80 billion baht, according to the Commerce Ministry’s Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO). The demand for premium dog and cat food drove this growth, with these segments contributing a striking 71 billion baht, marking a 39% increase from last year. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343355-thailands-pet-food-exports-soar-31-raking-80-billion-baht/

Thailand's pet food exports have surged by approximately 31% in the first nine months of the year, generating around 80 billion baht, according to the Commerce Ministry’s Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO). The demand for premium dog and cat food drove this growth, with these segments contributing a striking 71 billion baht, marking a 39% increase from last year. "The pet food sector has experienced significant growth, especially in dog and cat food exports," stated TPSO Director General Poonpong Naiyanapakorn. While canine and feline food sales flourished, other pet food products saw a slight decline, down by 8%, totalling about 9 billion baht. Thailand's pet food success is spreading globally, with key markets including the United States, Japan, Italy, Australia, and the Philippines. In 2022, Thailand was the fourth-largest pet food exporter, claiming an 8% share of the global market, surpassing nations like the UK and India but trailing behind leaders Germany, the US, and France. The global pet care market, which encompasses food, products, and services, reached a substantial value of US$280 billion (9.5 trillion baht) in 2022. Analysts predict an annual growth rate of 7%, with the sector expected to reach US$550 billion (18.7 trillion baht) by 2032. This growth reflects a shift in pet ownership attitudes, with animals increasingly viewed as family members, driving businesses to capitalise on this evolving dynamic. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-12

Elephant rampage at charity event in Bueng Kan kills woman Picture courtesy of Dailynews An elephant at a charity event in Bueng Kan went on a rampage, causing the tragic death of one woman and leaving a man severely injured. The incident, which took place yesterday, November 11, led to chaos as attendees fled in panic. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343354-elephant-rampage-at-charity-event-in-bueng-kan-kills-woman/

An elephant at a charity event in Bueng Kan went on a rampage, causing the tragic death of one woman and leaving a man severely injured. The incident, which took place yesterday, November 11, led to chaos as attendees fled in panic. A social media post detailed the unfortunate sequence of events during the traditional Kathin festival procession. An elephant part of the parade became aggressive and attacked participants. Two women sitting on the elephant’s howdah fell, suffering injuries. One of the women, later identified as 47 year old Priyawarn Karakulpoonperm, was rushed to Pak Khat Hospital but sadly succumbed to her injuries. Another individual, 61 year old Somporn Baumano, was also critically injured after being pushed by the elephant into a parked motorcycle. This incident prompted an investigation led by Jirayu Duangkaew, deputy investigator at Pak Khat Police Station. Following a report from the police communication centre about the fatal attack, he informed Siwat Vorakuttanon, the station’s superintendent, and proceeded to the scene. The tragic event unfolded at the rear of Suthiwanaram Temple in Huai Kan Lueng Noi village, Pak Khat district, Bueng Kan province. Emergency response teams, including rescue units from the local administration and Sawang Siwilai at the Pak Khat point, transported the injured to medical facilities. Despite efforts, Priyawarn could not be saved. Her body presented multiple injuries, and the postmortem examination confirmed the severity of her wounds. Elephant rampage Eyewitnesses recounted the procession, which started from the temple’s main entrance, attracting approximately 8,000 participants, including several elephants. Festivities included music and dance, with people offering bananas and sugarcane to the elephants. However, one smaller elephant showed signs of irritation, possibly exacerbated by the heat and teasing from attendees who pulled back sugarcane after offering it. The elephant’s erratic behaviour led it to shake its head violently, causing panic as it ran amok. The mahout’s inability to control the animal resulted in chaos, with people scrambling for safety. Some attempted to manage the situation by pulling the elephant’s tail or using cloths to cover its eyes. Unfortunately, Priyawarn fell directly in front of the elephant and was further attacked. The animal kneeled and pushed her with its head, resembling a motion to stab with its tusk. Fortunately, two other elephants were guided by their mahouts to intervene, preventing further assault. Despite their efforts, Priyawarn’s injuries proved fatal, reported KhaoSod. Police are now gathering evidence and testimonies to pursue legal action in response to the incident. By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Dailynews Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-12

Fake monk returns to Bangkok to beg day after losing robes - video Photo courtesy of The Nation Just one day after being unmasked as a fake monk, a 65 year old man from Saraburi, Central Thailand, was spotted back on the streets of Bangkok, resuming his act as a disabled beggar—but this time without his monk’s robes. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343353-fake-monk-returns-to-bangkok-to-beg-day-after-losing-robes-video/