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Thailand's Public Debt Stays Sustainable Amid Fiscal Strategy File photo for reference only In yesterday's Cabinet meeting, it was disclosed that Thailand's public debt remains within sustainable limits. As of August, the debt reached 11.7 trillion baht or 64% of the GDP, comfortably below the 70% fiscal sustainability benchmark. This reassures that the nation's economic strategies are on track. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342803-thailands-public-debt-stays-sustainable-amid-fiscal-strategy/

In yesterday's Cabinet meeting, it was disclosed that Thailand's public debt remains within sustainable limits. As of August, the debt reached 11.7 trillion baht or 64% of the GDP, comfortably below the 70% fiscal sustainability benchmark. This reassures that the nation's economic strategies are on track. Government spokesperson Jirayu Houngsub emphasised the Finance Ministry's strict adherence to the public debt management framework. This scheme involves four crucial criteria that help in maintaining debt levels manageable and predictable. By the end of March, the government's debt was a mere 19% of projected annual revenue, safely under the 35% ceiling. Public debt in foreign currency was just 1.23% of the total public debt, against a 10% cap. Furthermore, foreign currency debt to export revenue ratio stood at a minimal 0.05%, underlining stable and secure financial management. Jindarat Viriyataveekul from the Public Debt Management Office (PDMO) confirmed that Thailand's debt level is comparable to those of similar economies. Even with an additional 145 billion baht for fiscal 2024 to fund a handout programme, debt remains manageable. Future projections for fiscal 2025 predict debt levels at 66-67% of GDP, although these figures could improve with better-than-expected GDP growth. Additionally, the Cabinet has approved a 2.55 billion baht contingency fund in the 2025 budget to aid farmers, especially those affected by recent flooding. This fund will bolster projects on rice production efficiency, pest and disease control, and crop support, as well as machinery repair and debt relief for agricultural cooperatives. These financial measures and strategic spending showcase the government's proactive steps towards economic resilience, ensuring sustainable growth while providing vital support to affected communities. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-06

Pattaya bike shop owner demands police action after burglary Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail A distraught bike shop owner in Pattaya has gone public, calling out the local police for their lack of action following a brazen burglary that left her feeling vulnerable and frustrated. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342802-pattaya-bike-shop-owner-demands-police-action-after-burglary/

A distraught bike shop owner in Pattaya has gone public, calling out the local police for their lack of action following a brazen burglary that left her feeling vulnerable and frustrated. The shop owner, 29 year old Sujanthra Im-arom, who owns Cadence Cycle on Jomtien Soi 8, says her case has stalled, with no updates from the police despite repeated attempts to follow up. Sujanthra discovered the shocking break-in during the early hours of October 18, at around 1am, while she was asleep upstairs. The thief reportedly made off with a range of valuable items, including a laptop worth 15,000 baht, a 3,900-baht GPS device, and amulets valued at approximately 5,000 baht. Even her shop’s security camera wasn’t spared. After immediately reporting the crime to the Pattaya police, officers attended the scene and took notes, but that was where the communication ended. “I’ve been left in the dark. I can’t reach anyone for updates, and it’s as though my case has been forgotten.” Sujanthra has since taken matters into her own hands, releasing security footage of the suspect to the media in a bid to pressure the police into action. Adding to her unease, she claims that a man resembling the burglar has been spotted near her shop multiple times since the break-in, reported Pattaya Mail. Fearing a repeat incident, she urgently appealed for increased police presence and faster intervention. “I just want to feel safe in my own shop.” By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-06

Phone shop python: Serpent causes a ‘sting’ in Chanthaburi Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A large python caused quite a stir in the heart of Chanthaburi City when it was discovered in a mobile phone shop, leading to a dramatic and challenging rescue operation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342800-phone-shop-python-serpent-causes-a-‘sting’-in-chanthaburi/

A large python caused quite a stir in the heart of Chanthaburi City when it was discovered in a mobile phone shop, leading to a dramatic and challenging rescue operation. The incident unfolded around 10am yesterday, November 5, prompting a swift response from the Chanthaburi Rescue Association after a report about a sizeable reptile lurking inside a mobile phone store in the Sui Market area, Wat Mai subdistrict. Concerns for the safety of the shop employees and nearby residents necessitated immediate action to safely remove the reptile and return it to the wild. Upon arriving at the scene, the rescue team found the python hiding under a computer table in the shop named Phone Zen, located at 60-62 Sui Market. The initial assessment revealed a large, coiled reptile whose species was not immediately identifiable. Using a spotlight, the rescue volunteers confirmed it was indeed a large python, its dark scales glistening under the light. The team began carefully moving items to clear a path for the capture, said one of the rescue volunteers. “As soon as we pulled the python out, it struggled fiercely, wrapping itself tightly in self-defence while blood splattered onto the floor.” Python rescue This dramatic encounter left both the rescuers and onlookers at the bustling market in awe. Once the python was safely extracted from the shop, the team relocated it to an open area for easier control. The python measured over 3 metres in length and weighed approximately 7 kilogrammes. The blood observed was not from the python but from a rescue volunteer, who had sustained a hand injury after being bitten by the python during the capture attempt. The wound was promptly cleaned and given initial medical care. Wilai Polcharoen, a 32 year old employee at the store, explained that she had arrived to open the shop as usual when she heard unusual noises coming from behind the computer table. Initially thinking it was a stray cat, she inspected the area but could not see anything. However, the persistent strange noises prompted her to climb onto a chair for a better view. “I thought it was a cat because I couldn’t see clearly, but when I shone a light, I saw scales instead of fur. It was clear it wasn’t a cat.” Terrified, she quickly jumped down, ran to the front of the shop, and called the rescue team for assistance, reported KhaoSod. The unexpected appearance of the python in the shop might be linked to the scent of dogs and cats kept in the store, attracting the snake. However, the exact reason remains uncertain. Given the proximity to a nearby market with a drainage channel, it is plausible that the python was hunting for prey, such as rats, which are common in such environments. By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-06

Phuket transforms into a global luxury hub for the elite From left: Ravi Chandran, Corporate Affairs Director of Gardens of Eden; Praiya Laparojkit, Executive Director of Mercedes-Benz Phuket; Thiti Samuthrat, Assistant Hospital Director of Bangkok Hospital Phuket; Roman Gorin, Managing Director of Gardens of Eden; and Bill Barnett, Managing Director of C9 Hotelworks Phuket has changed dramatically in recent years. Fringed by the Andaman Sea, the tropical oasis has evolved from a popular beach resort destination into one of the world’s most attractive luxury residential markets, with elite luxury consumer brands, Michelin dining and international quality education and medical care fuelling the interest. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342799-phuket-transforms-into-a-global-luxury-hub-for-the-elite/

Phuket has changed dramatically in recent years. Fringed by the Andaman Sea, the tropical oasis has evolved from a popular beach resort destination into one of the world’s most attractive luxury residential markets, with elite luxury consumer brands, Michelin dining and international quality education and medical care fuelling the interest. The Phuket Luxury Report, unveiled at a recent event and produced by C9 Hotelworks, the award-winning Phuket-based tourism, hospitality & real estate consultancy, has shone a light on this transformation in the LivePhuket: A Global Luxury Lifestyle Destination. You can download the document to learn more about the transformation: https://c9hotelworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/The-Phuket-Luxury-Report-October-2024.pdf. A 90-minute event from C9 Hotelworks revealed the key findings from The Phuket Luxury Report as factors such as competitive pricing, infrastructure enhancements, and lifestyle preferences create soaring demand. The island is the birthplace of two global luxury hospitality brands – Aman Resorts and Banyan Group. Its luxury-lifestyle support demand generators include a private jet terminal and five award-winning ultra-luxury hotels with average room rates exceeding 34,136 Thai baht (US$1,000) a night. Four international-standard marinas host superyachts. There are 13 international schools and a growing number of best-in-class hospitals. Key highlights of the report Key highlights are developments by the pioneering Banyan Group, the developer of Laguna Phuket which includes: A 1,000-acre integrated destination community with now draws 1 million visitors a year and comprises 8 world-class hotels and resorts. An award-winning golf course, BDMS wellness clinic. International preschool kindergarten – in addition to 3,000 private homes. Gardens of Eden, a green-inspired luxury well-being space in Bangtao seeing intense interest from a new generation of investors in a top-grade sector valued at more than 337 billion Thai baht (US$10 billion) according to the report. Examining the factors impacting the rise of the luxury sector in Phuket was a line-up of top experts. A series of moderated discussions covered topics including Insights from Phuket’s Luxury Developers featuring: Stuart Reading, Deputy CEO of Laguna Resorts (part of Banyan Group). Ravi Chandran, Corporate Affairs Director at Gardens of Eden. Luxury Brands, represented by Wilaiporn Pitimanaaree. Senior Vice President of Central Pattana, Praiya Laparojkit, Executive Director of Mercedes-Benz Phuket. Thiti Samuthrat, Assistant Hospital Director of Bangkok Hospital Phuket. Roman Gorin, Managing Director of Gardens of Eden. Providing Food for Thought about the rise of Michelin-rated cuisine in Phuket, there was Marco Turatti, Executive Chef of InterContinental Phuket Resort. Parkorn “Tan” Kosiyabong, Chef & Owner, GOAT Bangkok and LAAD Phuket. Moderated by Sumi Soorian, Senior Advisor, Phuket Hotels Association. In the post-pandemic era, Phuket’s real estate has shown exponential growth in the multi-million-dollar luxury residential sector. This trend is rooted in changing lifestyles, with an emphasis on space, international services and a rich and diverse way of life. Live Phuket is at the forefront of change in the values of global citizens. By Bill Barnett From left: Ravi Chandran, Corporate Affairs Director of Gardens of Eden; Praiya Laparojkit, Executive Director of Mercedes-Benz Phuket; Thiti Samuthrat, Assistant Hospital Director of Bangkok Hospital Phuket; Roman Gorin, Managing Director of Gardens of Eden; and Bill Barnett, Managing Director of C9 Hotelworks Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-06

Big Joke’s wife sues woman and her husband over alleged false theft complaint Photo via Matichon The wife of former police chief Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn, filed a lawsuit against a woman and her police officer husband for allegedly lodging a false theft complaint accusing her of stealing gold and cash valued at 5.7 million baht. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342797-big-joke’s-wife-sues-woman-and-her-husband-over-alleged-false-theft-complaint/

The wife of former police chief Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn, filed a lawsuit against a woman and her police officer husband for allegedly lodging a false theft complaint accusing her of stealing gold and cash valued at 5.7 million baht. Sirinatda Hakparn, the wife of Big Joke, visited Phra Kanong Police Station on October 24 to deny accusations of theft and adultery made by 50 year old Thai woman, Thanattha. However, Thanattha insisted that Sirinatda indeed had an affair with her police officer husband and stole her valuables. Sirinatda defended herself saying she had no motive to steal from Thanattha and her husband, adding that the couple regularly borrowed money from her. Refusing to back down, Thanattha gave multiple interviews to the media in her quest for justice, though she lacked clear evidence for both the adultery and theft claims. She mentioned having a video of her husband engaging in sexual activities with Sirinatda but no such video was presented. Thanattha’s media appearances prompted other alleged victims to come forward, accusing her of fraud. The ensuing legal battle and controversy eventually led to Thanattha’s removal from her position as a special lecturer at the Royal Police Cadet Academy in Nakhon Pathom. In the latest development, Sirinatda countered Thanattha by filing a complaint against her and her husband for allegedly reporting a false crime to the police. Sirinatda sought arrest warrants for Thanattha but officials only issued summons warrants. The summons is expected to be issued within the next seven days, requiring Thanattha to report to the police to acknowledge the allegations. In an interview with Channel 7, Thanattha stated she was prepared to meet the police and intended to fight for justice. She believed that Sirinatda not only stole from her but also engaged in money laundering. However, Thanattha still lacks evidence to substantiate her claims. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Matichon Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-06

Thai piano teacher accuses renowned lawyer of attempted rape Photo via Facebook/ กูอิแฉ บวกหมดไม่สนใคร A Thai piano teacher accused renowned lawyer Sittha Biabangkerd of attempted rape, sharing CCTV footage of the alleged incident with news outlets. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342796-thai-piano-teacher-accuses-renowned-lawyer-of-attempted-rape/

A Thai piano teacher accused renowned lawyer Sittha Biabangkerd of attempted rape, sharing CCTV footage of the alleged incident with news outlets. Sittha’s name will be familiar to many as he was recently accused by Thai millionaire Jatuporn “Madam Oi” Ubonlert of swindling her out of 71 million baht. She claimed that Sittha deceived her into investing in an online lottery-selling platform, which showed no signs of development. Jatuporn returned to Thailand from France to file a lawsuit against Sittha, drawing public attention to the case. Following her accusation, others who also had grievances with Sittha came forward to pursue legal action, putting the lawyer under increasing scrutiny. In one case, a piano teacher, identified only as Jan, accused Sittha of attempting to rape her at her home, which doubles as a piano school. The exact date of the alleged incident was not disclosed. Jan shared the security camera footage of the alleged assault with a Facebook page titled กูอิแฉ บวกหมดไม่สนใคร (meaning “I’m exposing everything without caring about anyone”) and Amarin TV on October 29. She later gave an interview with Amarin TV, stating that the incident occurred at her own home, not Sittha’s. She insisted that she did not consent to any sexual activity with Sittha. Karma Jan explained that she and a friend were seeking legal advice after losing money in an investment scam. She reached out to several non-profit organisations and lawyers on Facebook but only Sittha responded to her messages. According to Jan, she initially discussed the matter with Sittha over the phone. Towards the end of the call, Sittha unexpectedly asked whether she had a boyfriend. She mentioned that she had been single for two years, to which Sittha responded that he was also single. Instead of providing legal advice, Sittha expressed interest in learning to play the piano from her and visited her home for a music lesson. The alleged incident occurred during his second visit when he reportedly tried to take her upstairs to sexually assault her but she managed to escape and immediately left her home for safety. Jan stated that she distanced herself from Sittha from that day onward but feared exposing his behaviour, concerned he might retaliate. She added that Sittha was now receiving karma for what he had done to others. She expressed confidence that he indeed swindled money from Madam Oi and other clients and hoped Sittha would face the consequences of his actions. Jan did not reveal to the media whether she intended to pursue legal action against Sittha for the alleged attempted rape. Sittha himself has yet to address the matter publicly. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ กูอิแฉ บวกหมดไม่สนใคร Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-06

Thailand enforces stricter regulations on illegal factories Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand’s Industry Ministry is intensifying efforts to enforce stricter regulations on substandard products that falsely claim to meet Thai Industrial Standards Institute (TISI) standards. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342795-thailand-enforces-stricter-regulations-on-illegal-factories/

Thailand’s Industry Ministry is intensifying efforts to enforce stricter regulations on substandard products that falsely claim to meet Thai Industrial Standards Institute (TISI) standards. Industry Minister Akanat Promphan announced the initiative following a Cabinet meeting, emphasising the need for collaboration with modern trade stores to conduct random product inspections. “To enforce measures to control substandard products, we are seeking cooperation from several modern trade stores to help inspect products claiming TISI compliance that lack quality.” These inspections aim to identify manufacturers falsely claiming TISI compliance, ensuring that only quality products reach consumers. In addition to product quality control, the ministry is accelerating the drafting of the Industrial Waste and Electronic Waste Act, anticipated to be finalised within one to two months. This act is essential for addressing the pressing issue of industrial waste disposal across the country. Akanat highlighted two primary objectives: securing more central budget funding for nationwide industrial waste management and intensifying enforcement actions against illegal factories operating without licences. Recent inspections in Prachin Buri province uncovered several illegal factories, prompting the ministry to enforce the Hazardous Substances Act. “Special operational units will conduct inspections weekly.” Sugar cane burning Further, the minister is set to propose measures to the Cabinet aimed at reducing the burning of sugar cane, a practice contributing to air pollution. This proposal has already received approval from the Office of the Cane and Sugar Board and is expected to be discussed in a forthcoming Cabinet meeting within the next one to two weeks. Over the last five to six years, initiatives have been introduced to minimise sugar cane burning, offering incentives to farmers who deliver fresh sugar cane. The scheme provides financial assistance of 120 baht per tonne to encourage this practice. Before these measures, the rate of sugar cane burning was between 50% and 70%. Post-implementation, this rate has significantly dropped to approximately 30%. However, challenges remain as some agricultural areas are not accessible to machinery, necessitating manual cutting of crops. In areas where manual labour is required, burning leaves before cutting has been the most straightforward method, despite efforts to discourage such practices due to environmental concerns, reported Bangkok Post. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-06

Free holidays for Brits ‘high-jacked’ into Thai drug courier scheme Picture courtesy of Travel and Leisure In a shocking twist on the idyllic Thai getaway, British citizens have reportedly been exploited as unwitting drug couriers, smuggling cannabis from Thailand back to the UK under the guise of a free holiday. British authorities have now called on Thai police to clamp down on this burgeoning drug mule scheme. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342792-free-holidays-for-brits-‘high-jacked’-into-thai-drug-courier-scheme/

In a shocking twist on the idyllic Thai getaway, British citizens have reportedly been exploited as unwitting drug couriers, smuggling cannabis from Thailand back to the UK under the guise of a free holiday. British authorities have now called on Thai police to clamp down on this burgeoning drug mule scheme. According to Police Lieutenant General Phanurat Lukboon, secretary-general of Thailand’s Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB), the illicit operation was revealed following a visit from British ambassador Mark Gooding and officials from the UK’s National Crime Agency. The visiting delegation urged Thai authorities to aid in stopping the flow of cannabis into Britain. Despite the allure of sun-soaked beaches, willing Brits are being targeted through the Telegram chat app, lured by offers of free tours, accommodation, and even pocket money. The catch? Smuggling cannabis back to British shores. Lt. Gen. Phanurat noted a stark rise in cannabis interceptions this year, with British authorities discovering hundreds of kilograms of the drug smuggled from Thailand. “These Britons aren’t being duped, they’re being tempted.” The ONCB has wasted no time initiating an investigation, with recent busts uncovering a parcel concealing 210 grams of ecstasy precursor, falsely declared as a dietary supplement. The package, sent from the UK, was intended for a British and Dutch national residing in Bangkok. Raids on these foreign nationals’ rented properties revealed 36kg of cannabis in sealed packages, packaging equipment, and 1.4kg of potent cannabis resin. ONCB’s law enforcement director, Prin Mekanandha, indicated that the pair, in Thailand as tourists for about four months, were major players in sourcing cannabis for illicit export to the UK. Bangkok Post reported that narcotics police discovered slips indicating mailed parcels falsely declared as containing pillows, further exposing the smuggling operation. Cannabis products were being dispatched via parcel to Britain while others were handed to a network of couriers recruited through Telegram. These recruits, needing no visas for UK entry, concealed the cannabis in their luggage, unwittingly contributing to Britain’s burgeoning cannabis problem. The ONCB, in collaboration with British authorities, remains vigilant in dismantling this audacious scheme. By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Travel and Leisure Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-06

Russian Woman on the Run After Alleged Stabbing in Pattaya In the early hours of November 6th, a shocking incident unfolded at Pattaya Park Night Plaza, leaving a Russian woman on the run after allegedly stabbing a fellow Russian national during an argument. The incident occurred at approximately 12:36 AM, prompting immediate response from Pattaya police and rescue teams. At the bustling night market, vendors and tourists were startled to witness a violent altercation between two women. The victim, identified only as Ms. Natalia, aged between 45-50, suffered serious injuries, including two stab wounds to her left abdomen and two severe cuts on her left arm. She received urgent medical assistance before being transported to a hospital. The suspect, known to be a Russian woman donned in a white sleeveless shirt and shorts, fled the scene before police could apprehend her. At the site of the attack, investigators found a pool of blood and a 30-centimeter knife. An eyewitness, Mr. Gi, a 33-year-old local, recounted that the altercation followed an initial confrontation where the suspect approached Ms. Natalia’s group, which consisted of one man and three women. After a brief, seemingly harmless exchange, the suspect left only to return 10 minutes later. In a sudden turn of events, Natalia confronted her, and the suspect responded by brandishing a knife. Police continue their search for the suspect, having identified her and her residence. Authorities are now examining CCTV footage from the scene to track her escape route. Meanwhile, the victim's friends, believing jealousy to be the motive, are urging a swift arrest to prevent the suspect’s possible escape from the country, reported The Pattaya News. Photo: The Pattaya News -- 2024-11-06

Bangkok Plans to Transform Phahurat Into a Colorful Little India File photo for reference only The Bangkok Metropolitan Council has announced its plan to turn the Phahurat area into a vibrant Little India to attract tourists and boost investments, aiming to increase the country’s revenue. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342782-bangkok-plans-to-transform-phahurat-into-a-colorful-little-india/

The Bangkok Metropolitan Council has announced its plan to turn the Phahurat area into a vibrant Little India to attract tourists and boost investments, aiming to increase the country’s revenue. John Surajit Pongsingwitaya, President of the Bangkok Metropolitan Council, stated their commitment to developing Phahurat as a new tourist destination, especially for visitors from India. A discussion on the project involved Nagesh Singh, the Indian Ambassador to Thailand, along with other key officials like Sanon Wangsrangboon, Deputy Governor of Bangkok, and council members from different districts. They aim to promote Indian identity and culture in Phahurat, offering tourists a taste of traditional Indian charm. Plans include creating a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for a sister city relationship between Bangkok and Mumbai, India. The project will focus on revitalizing the area with elements such as authentic Indian architecture, restaurants, and festivals. This will involve improving sidewalks and street signs to fit the local identity, enhancing the tourism experience. The council is working on partnerships with the private sector and local communities to launch a strong promotional campaign both locally and internationally. This approach intends to boost cultural tourism by highlighting the area's Indian identity. Sanook reported that the plan features showcasing Indian food, culture, traditions, and art, possibly transforming the area into a lively festival destination. The aim is to create a new landmark that attracts tourists, increases community income, and supports the use of the area in film and TV productions. John mentioned, "The Little India project will not only bring more tourists but also enhance local community economics by boosting employment through art, culture, and traditions. This initiative will promote sustainable growth, generate national revenue, build investor confidence, and ensure stable income for locals." File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-06

Thai FDA Seizes Illegal Chinese Goods in Bangkok Supermarkets File photo for reference only In a significant crackdown, the Thai Food and Drug Administration (FDA), alongside police and local authorities, has confiscated over 94,000 illegal Chinese consumer products from Bangkok shops over the past three months. According to FDA deputy secretary-general Lertchai Lertvut, 47 Chinese supermarkets were raided from 31 July to 4 November, uncovering 341 product categories that breached Thai labelling regulations. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342781-thai-fda-seizes-illegal-chinese-goods-in-bangkok-supermarkets/

In a significant crackdown, the Thai Food and Drug Administration (FDA), alongside police and local authorities, has confiscated over 94,000 illegal Chinese consumer products from Bangkok shops over the past three months. According to FDA deputy secretary-general Lertchai Lertvut, 47 Chinese supermarkets were raided from 31 July to 4 November, uncovering 341 product categories that breached Thai labelling regulations. These regulations mandate that food products display Thai-language labels; non-compliance can result in fines up to 30,000 baht. For cosmetics lacking Thai labels, sellers face fines of up to 10,000 baht and potential imprisonment of up to one month. Mr Lertchai urged consumers to prioritise safety by purchasing only those products that feature Thai labels, which include essential details such as the product name, manufacturer, importer, manufacturing and expiry dates, and an FDA registration number. Such information ensures both transparency and safety in consumer goods. The operation highlights ongoing efforts to uphold food and consumer safety standards in Thailand. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-06

Thailand Revamps Military Strategy to Voluntary Service and Perks File photo for reference only In a bold shift, Thailand's Defence Ministry has revamped its military recruitment strategy, transitioning from mandatory conscription to a voluntary model teeming with incentives. During a visit to Infantry Division 6 in Roi Et, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai celebrated the successful transition, underlining a significant surge in voluntary enlistment. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342779-thailand-revamps-military-strategy-to-voluntary-service-and-perks/

In a bold shift, Thailand's Defence Ministry has revamped its military recruitment strategy, transitioning from mandatory conscription to a voluntary model teeming with incentives. During a visit to Infantry Division 6 in Roi Et, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai celebrated the successful transition, underlining a significant surge in voluntary enlistment. The new initiative offers a competitive package to entice recruits, including an 11,000-baht monthly salary, deployment bonuses, career development opportunities, and educational certifications. This array of benefits is attracting volunteers and decreasing reliance on compulsory service. Aiming for a modern and streamlined military, the ministry has opened approximately 41,790 roles for the 2024 cycle. Recruits can apply online until 26th January 2025, choosing their preferred units without regional limitations. This digital application process has made recruitment more accessible and modernised, reflecting the government's vision. Moreover, enlisted personnel receive priority access to 80% of the Royal Thai Army's non-commissioned officer exams, paving the way for future officer roles. Collaborations with the Ministry of Education enable recruits to acquire secondary and vocational credentials, adding long-term worth to military service. Transparency and welfare are pivotal, with mechanisms ensuring recruits' safety and keeping families informed. Comprehensive medical and life insurance further render military service appealing to young Thais seeking secure and promising futures. This year, voluntary enlistment has reached over 38,000—a significant increase from nearly 29,000 in 2021, reflecting a growing interest in voluntary military service. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-06

Laotian mother appeals for hearing aids for blue-eyed twins with rare condition Photo via Facebook/ Wachi Wachi A Laotian mother in the Isaan province of Nakhon Phanom is seeking public support for hearing aids for her twin daughters, who are hearing and speech impaired and have blue eyes due to Waardenburg syndrome. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342778-laotian-mother-appeals-for-hearing-aids-for-blue-eyed-twins-with-rare-condition/

A Laotian mother in the Isaan province of Nakhon Phanom is seeking public support for hearing aids for her twin daughters, who are hearing and speech impaired and have blue eyes due to Waardenburg syndrome. The two girls with bright blue eyes went viral on social media after a Facebook user, Wachi Wachi, shared their pictures on Monday, November 4. The caption stated, “Gift and Gam, the twins with blue eyes.” One of the girls has two blue eyes while the other has only one blue eye. The pictures garnered over 8,600 reactions, 680 comments, and 4,400 shares. Many social media users found their bright blue eyes stunning, as most Thai and Asian people typically have dark eye colours. Others expressed concern about the health conditions that led to their eye colour. Some users compared the girls to Hinata Hyuga, a character from the Japanese anime Naruto, who also has bright blue eyes similar to theirs. ThaiRath later clarified that the two are half Thai, half Laotian, and live in Nakhon Phanom. The girl with one blue eye is called Gift while the girl with two blue eyes is called Gam. They are studying at a school for the deaf in the Isaan province of Mukdahan, as they are hearing and speech impaired due to Waardenburg syndrome. Waardenburg syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that primarily affects pigmentation (colour) in areas such as the hair, skin, and eyes, as well as hearing ability. Because the syndrome is genetic, their mother, 42 year old Janwiporn, also has blue eyes. After the two girls went viral on Thai social media, Janwiporn stepped forward to seek support for them. She said she was a single mother after divorcing their father, who resides in the central province of Kanchanaburi. Now, Janwiporn and her daughters live in Nakhon Phanom with her new husband and her sister. Janwiporn emphasised that she is not seeking money but wants her daughters to receive hearing aids, which she cannot afford herself. Janwiporn stated that the girls can hear her if she shouts, so she hopes the hearing aids will help improve their quality of life. She wishes for them to be able to speak and listen like others. Janwiporn urged anyone interested in helping with hearing aids or other treatments to contact her via her mobile phone at 065-598-1182. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Wachi Wachi Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-06