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The Office of the Basic Education Commission is investigating an educational official in the southern province of Prachuap Khiri Khan who was allegedly sleeping at work and finishing her duties early after lunch. The Facebook pages ปฏิบัติการหมาเฝ้าบ้าน (Watchdog Anti-corruption Organisation of Thailand) and ร้ายกาจ (Wicked!) shared pictures and videos of the official, identified only as “Aunty Fon,” sleeping on duty and leaving the workplace early, with evidence surfacing from October 29 onwards. In the caption, the Wicked! page stated… “Sleep, sleep, sleep, and then go home. Aunty Fon is sleeping and enjoying the cold air-conditioning at the government office. She even has an extra fan at her desk. No one dares to complain because her husband is the former deputy director, and the new deputy director is also her husband’s friend. She doesn’t do any work, whether it’s easy or hard. Sometimes, she claims her computer is broken, but it’s just a lie.” In the images, Fon is seen sleeping at her desk in both formal government and casual uniforms. On occasion, she even wears earphones, seemingly for a deeper sleep. One picture shows Fon carrying a plastic bag and leaving the office. Colleagues who shared the pictures with the page claimed this photo was taken when she left work early, at around 1pm, after lunch. Many netizens condemned Fon’s actions as taking advantage of others who work hard. Others criticised government departments in general for retaining lazy employees based solely on seniority and connections. Some netizens compared government offices with private companies, suggesting that Fon would have been dismissed immediately in the private sector. Others expressed concern for those who secretly took her pictures and videos, fearing they could face retaliation due to Fon’s influence. After the story went viral on Thai social media, the Secretary General of the Prachuap Khiri Khan Primary Educational Service Area Office 2, Thanu Wongjinda, confirmed that the office is aware of the issue, and an investigation is currently underway. He promised to update the public on the investigation’s progress within seven days. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ ร้ายกาจ Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-31

Bangkok Hospital Manager Faces Criticism After Pharmacist's Tragic Death File photo for reference only People in Thailand are expressing mixed reactions after viewing a conversation between a Rama 9 Hospital manager in Bangkok and a pharmacist named Moomind, who recently took his own life. Before his death, Moomind left a note suggesting that stress from his manager was a major factor in his decision. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342231-bangkok-hospital-manager-faces-criticism-after-pharmacists-tragic-death/

People in Thailand are expressing mixed reactions after viewing a conversation between a Rama 9 Hospital manager in Bangkok and a pharmacist named Moomind, who recently took his own life. Before his death, Moomind left a note suggesting that stress from his manager was a major factor in his decision. On October 30, Esor News shared screenshots of the conversation between the manager, identified as Aof, and Moomind. The post included a portion of Moomind’s suicide note: "Aof, I had to make this decision and leave everyone I care about because I was unfortunate to have a manager like you. You never listened to me, preferring to pressure people into quitting." Moomind worked at Rama 9 Hospital and sadly passed away in his car, leaving a note describing his strained relationship with his manager as a key reason for his actions. In the shared messages, Aof suggested that Moomind resign if he was unhappy with his job. The manager also publicly criticized Moomind’s performance in a staff group chat instead of addressing it privately. Aof further offered Moomind the option to transfer to another team to alleviate his stress, writing, "Would you be interested in moving to the drug storage? This way, you won’t have to feel uncomfortable working with me." Public Response and Hospital Actions Many people online believe that Aof put too much pressure on Moomind to force him out of the hospital, expressing that such criticism should be handled privately. Others argued that Aof was trying to help by offering a different role to Moomind, perceiving the manager's words as neither harsh nor threatening. In response to the controversy, Rama 9 Hospital released a statement on October 31, offering condolences to Moomind’s family and promising to investigate the concerns about a toxic work environment raised in his note. The hospital committed to supporting Moomind’s family and encouraged all departments to act with empathy, promoting this approach as a core value. Moomind’s older sister shared on Facebook that he had been dealing with depression. The family, along with the hospital management and Moomind, had previously discussed his challenges. Moomind, who had a deep passion for his job and the hospital, chose not to resign, determined to prove himself. The sister mentioned that the manager has learned a significant lesson, and the family does not wish to escalate the issue further. They are also not ready to speak with the media. The hospital manager and Moomind's colleagues have not shared any comments with the media. If you or anyone you know is in emotional distress, please contact the Samaritans of Thailand 24-hour hotline: 02 713 6791 (English), 02 713 6793 (Thai), or the Thai Mental Health Hotline at 1323 (Thai). Please also contact your friends or relatives at this time if you have feelings of loneliness, stress, or depression. Seek help. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-31

Chiang Mai Film Director Protests Water Issue With Unusual Stunt Photo: The Thaiger A film director from Chiang Mai, Nitchapoom Chaianan, brought attention to his village's ongoing water supply problem by wearing red women's underwear in a public protest. This unique demonstration highlighted a persistent issue affecting the community for the past ten years. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342230-chiang-mai-film-director-protests-water-issue-with-unusual-stunt/

A film director from Chiang Mai, Nitchapoom Chaianan, brought attention to his village's ongoing water supply problem by wearing red women's underwear in a public protest. This unique demonstration highlighted a persistent issue affecting the community for the past ten years. Nitchapoom, 39, who works for Wayufilm, used this bold action to draw awareness to the water crisis affecting Ban Thor Pa Tan village. His protest message read, “Ban Thor Pa Tan, no water again, can’t even clean…”, emphasizing the severity of the situation. Ten years ago, on August 17, 2014, Nitchapoom staged a similar protest using just a towel as he voiced his frustrations against the Provincial Waterworks Authority in Mae Rim. Over the past decade, he has experienced frequent water issues, such as broken pipes and shortages, almost every month. “The water pressure is particularly weak at night and in the morning,” Nitchapoom noted. He explained that the ageing water pipe system is a major problem. At night, when water usage is low, the pressure in the pipes increases, forcing a reduction in pressure to prevent damage. This results in inadequate water pressure, especially on the second and third floors of homes. Nitchapoom's unusual protest aimed to spark urgency in resolving this ongoing issue. He appreciates the hard work of the repair staff and the Mae Rim Provincial Waterworks Authority’s online team, who keep residents updated on repairs and breakdowns. However, he remains frustrated by the recurring water problems and calls on higher-level officials to address the root causes, whether financial or technical, to find a lasting solution. "Yesterday, they said water would be available by 7 am, but it wasn't there even by the afternoon," he shared. Nitchapoom hinted that if the situation remains unresolved for another decade, he might take even more extreme measures in future protests, although he hopes the issue will be fixed soon. Photo: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-31

Operation Titanium Reveals £6.5M Stolen Luxury Car Scam - video File photo for reference only In a saga fit for a blockbuster film, British authorities have successfully unravelled a complex car fraud operation, reclaiming £6.5 million worth of high-end vehicles, including a spectacular £220,000 Lamborghini Huracan Spyder. These cars were illegitimately exported from the UK to Thailand eight years ago, but after a meticulous investigation spanning years, they are now set to return to their rightful owners. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342229-operation-titanium-reveals-£65m-stolen-luxury-car-scam-video/

In a saga fit for a blockbuster film, British authorities have successfully unravelled a complex car fraud operation, reclaiming £6.5 million worth of high-end vehicles, including a spectacular £220,000 Lamborghini Huracan Spyder. These cars were illegitimately exported from the UK to Thailand eight years ago, but after a meticulous investigation spanning years, they are now set to return to their rightful owners. The haul consists of 30 luxury vehicles such as Mercedes, Porsches, and a classic Ford Mustang. According to the police, the heist constitutes a “sophisticated case of finance fraud,” orchestrated by a Thai mastermind alongside 13 of his compatriots. In cahoots with four Brits, this cunning group swiped 35 vehicles from dealerships across England between 2016 and 2017, quickly shipping them off to Thailand where they were sold at seemingly legitimate establishments, yielding substantial profits. This unraveling commenced with Operation Titanium, led by the National Vehicle Crime Intelligence Service (NaVCIS). The operation gained traction following the discovery of four stolen Mercedes at Southampton Port, leading investigators to a larger network funnelling UK cars to Bangkok. Collaboration with Thai police and international agencies enabled NaVCIS to navigate language barriers and complex legal disputes, ultimately resulting in the recovery of these vehicles. Sharon Naughton, Head of NaVCIS, emphasized the significance of Southampton's find, stating it was pivotal to dismantling the syndicate. The ringleader's tax-dodging manoeuvres have landed him in custody in Thailand, whilst legal proceedings against the involved Brits continue. Highlighting the operation's success, Nick Dawson from the ports credited the teamwork and persistence that led to the recovery of the valuable assets. Intranee Sumawong, a Thai senior public prosecutor, acknowledged the British vehicles' allure in her country due to cultural ties, further underscoring the operation's importance. With these vehicles now voyaging back to the UK, Operation Titanium symbolizes a major victory for law enforcement, setting a precedent for tackling international automotive crimes. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-31

Bank of Thailand Aims for 1-3% Inflation to Boost Economy File photo for reference only The Bank of Thailand (BoT) is aiming to keep inflation between 1% and 3% to stimulate economic growth. Deputy Governor Piti Disyatat stated at the Monetary Policy Forum that the bank expects headline inflation to reach 1.2% by 2025. This is higher than the 0.5% forecast for 2024, but still within the desired range. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342228-bank-of-thailand-aims-for-1-3-inflation-to-boost-economy/

The Bank of Thailand (BoT) is aiming to keep inflation between 1% and 3% to stimulate economic growth. Deputy Governor Piti Disyatat stated at the Monetary Policy Forum that the bank expects headline inflation to reach 1.2% by 2025. This is higher than the 0.5% forecast for 2024, but still within the desired range. The bank also expects core inflation, which excludes volatile items like fresh food and energy, to rise to 0.9% by 2025. Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira supports the goal, suggesting that a 2% inflation rate could boost the economy. This year, Thailand has experienced low inflation, with a 0.2% increase from last year over the first nine months and core inflation at an average of 0.48%, according to Pichai. The target is part of a broader plan to achieve economic growth of 2.8% to 3%. Structural reforms are also being discussed to potentially increase growth further. Piti noted that inflation in Thailand is influenced by both local and global factors, with a significant impact from energy and fresh food, which account for 90% of domestic demand-side inflation. Global competition and government initiatives like the Oil Fuel Fund help manage inflation. No signs of deflation are apparent, and the economy is expected to grow by 2.7% in 2024, increasing to 2.9% in 2025. Growth is supported by a strong tourism sector, with 36 million foreign visitors expected this year, rising to 39.5 million by 2025. Tourist income is projected to reach 1.4 trillion baht this year and 1.6 trillion next year. Despite these positive signs, challenges remain, including US-China trade tensions and geopolitical issues in regions like the Middle East. The approaching US presidential election adds further uncertainty. However, Thailand's central bank is focused on maintaining steady inflation to support economic health and growth. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-31

Thai Manufacturing Slows by 3.5% Due to Challenges in Auto and Construction Sectors File photo for reference only In September, Thailand’s Manufacturing Production Index (MPI) decreased by 3.5% compared to the previous year, settling at 92.4 points. The Office of Industrial Economics (OIE) points to a slowdown in the automotive and construction industries as the main factors behind this drop. With the final quarter of the year underway, looming uncertainty about the upcoming US presidential election could pose additional hurdles. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342227-thai-manufacturing-slows-by-35-due-to-challenges-in-auto-and-construction-sectors/

In September, Thailand’s Manufacturing Production Index (MPI) decreased by 3.5% compared to the previous year, settling at 92.4 points. The Office of Industrial Economics (OIE) points to a slowdown in the automotive and construction industries as the main factors behind this drop. With the final quarter of the year underway, looming uncertainty about the upcoming US presidential election could pose additional hurdles. During the third quarter, the MPI fell by 1.2% year-on-year, reaching 94.7 points, with a capacity utilization rate of 58.2%. Acting Director-General Passakorn Chairat of the OIE highlights that the September MPI decrease is related to a slowdown in the domestic economy, reduced consumer spending power, and high levels of household debt. "Car production in Thailand continued to decline, marking the 14th consecutive month of reduction," Chairat noted. In September, production of pickups, small passenger cars, and hybrid vehicles over 1,800cc fell by 23.4% compared to the previous year. This decline is partly due to stricter bank criteria for auto loans over concerns of bad loans. Similarly, the construction sector saw an 8.9% year-on-year drop in the production of concrete, cement, and plaster. This reflects a slowdown in both public and private construction projects, exacerbated by high household debt and increased prices for construction materials and housing. In contrast, the OIE reported a surge in canned aquatic food production, which rose by 49.9% in September. This increase is driven by growing orders from the US, Canada, and Australia, in preparation for the year-end celebrations. As the year end approaches, Thai businesses continue to tackle several issues including weak consumer purchasing power, signs of an economic slowdown in the US, and the upcoming American presidential election on November 5. The election sees a tight race between Republican candidate and former president Donald Trump and Democratic candidate and Vice-President Kamala Harris. "The new US administration may impact companies in various ways. I recommend manufacturers adapt and manage their resources wisely," Chairat added. He also encouraged factories to boost their use of clean energy, in support of global efforts to cut carbon emissions. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-31

Thai monk gives 40 baht bribe to silence 5 year old sex abuse victim Photo via Channel 7 A Thai monk attempted to cover up sexually abusing a five year old girl at a temple in the central province of Nakhon Pathom by giving the young victim 40 baht in cash. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342226-thai-monk-gives-40-baht-bribe-to-silence-5-year-old-sex-abuse-victim/

A Thai monk attempted to cover up sexually abusing a five year old girl at a temple in the central province of Nakhon Pathom by giving the young victim 40 baht in cash. The victim’s 62 year old grandmother requested Channel 3 to help bring justice to her young granddaughter. The woman explained that the sexual assault took place on October 27 when she and the girl attended a merit-making ceremony at the temple. The grandmother revealed that her 10 year old grandchild, a novice at the temple, witnessed the entire sexual abuse committed by the pedophile monk. The two children then informed her of the incident. According to the girl, the monk called her to talk to him privately and offered her money to buy snacks and toys. The girl then approached the monk and was touched inappropriately on her private part. The deviant monk gave her 40 baht in cash and let her go. The grandmother brought the issue to the abbot of the temple, and the deputy abbot summoned the accused monk for questioning. The monk insisted on his innocence and even claimed that he gave money to the girl because he felt sorry for her poverty. The deputy abbot deemed the monk guilty and banned him from leaving the temple, confining him to the temple grounds. The deputy abbot added he could not interfere with the legal proceedings conducted by the police. The grandmother was asked to report the matter to the police herself and the abbot promised to facilitate the investigation as much as possible. The deputy abbot added that the temple received a similar complaint from a resident in the past and the case remains under investigation by the Nakhon Pathom Provincial Buddhist Office. The abbot reportedly expelled this monk multiple times before but no other temples would allow him to stay. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 7 Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-31

Former Thai police officer-turned-imam killed in Yala shooting Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Police recovered over 50 spent bullet casings from the scene of a fatal shooting involving a 54 year old former police officer and current imam, suggesting insurgent groups are behind this attack in Yala province. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342225-former-thai-police-officer-turned-imam-killed-in-yala-shooting/

Police recovered over 50 spent bullet casings from the scene of a fatal shooting involving a 54 year old former police officer and current imam, suggesting insurgent groups are behind this attack in Yala province. Phuad Raseming, known as the imam of the Muhayirin Mosque in Ban Nam Yen, was ambushed and killed by three assailants wielding military-grade firearms and a shotgun. The attack occurred outside his home in Lam Mai subdistrict as he returned from prayers the previous evening. His tragic death right at his doorstep sent shockwaves through the community, said a resident. “The assailants lay in wait, targeting him as he arrived home.” The incident has left the community in mourning, with friends and family gathering at Phuad’s residence to express their condolences. On the day following the attack, Phuad’s family and relatives conducted his funeral according to Islamic rites at the Ban Nam Yen cemetery, with a large turnout of religious leaders and locals attending to pay their respects. “Phuad was greatly respected and loved by the community,” a mourner expressed, highlighting his positive impact on the village. During the investigation, led by Kosit Benjakul, the police chief of Lam Mai Police Station, and the bomb disposal and forensic units, numerous pieces of evidence were found. Among them were different types of bullet casings, specifically two 11mm casings, 14 unidentified casings, 33 5.56mm casings from an M-16 rifle, one shotgun casing, two 5.56mm bullets, five bullet heads, and one shotgun shell pillow. Police are actively analysing the ballistic trajectories and gunpowder residues to track down the perpetrators swiftly, as this incident has deeply affected the residents of Yala and neighbouring areas. Yala shooting Phuad, who resigned from the police force in September 2022 to succeed his late father as the imam, was a well-regarded figure in the community. A police intelligence officer mentioned that Phuad previously served at Krong Pinang and Lam Mai Police Stations in Yala City. “He had no known personal conflicts and was seen as a bridge between state officials and insurgents.” The officer added that this might have made him a target for those wanting to destabilise the area. The investigation into the motives behind the killing is ongoing. Police suspect the attack is part of a broader strategy by insurgent groups to instigate unrest in the region. However, they are not ruling out personal motives as a potential factor, reported KhaoSod. The former officer’s dual role as both a religious leader and an ex-law enforcement officer may have led insurgents to distrust him, positioning the attack as an effort to create discord and blame the state officials. By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-31

Thai mother pimped out autistic daughter to dealer for drugs Photo via Channel 7 Police arrested a Thai mother at her home in the Khlong Sam Wa district of Bangkok on Tuesday, after she pimped out her 16 year old autistic daughter to a dealer to obtain free drugs. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342224-thai-mother-pimped-out-autistic-daughter-to-dealer-for-drugs/

Police arrested a Thai mother at her home in the Khlong Sam Wa district of Bangkok on Tuesday, after she pimped out her 16 year old autistic daughter to a dealer to obtain free drugs. A Thai grandmother filed a complaint with Nimitmai Police Station, yesterday, October 30 that her autistic granddaughter went missing from their home in the Khlong Sam Wa district of Bangkok. The grandmother later learned that the girl’s mother hid her in a bedroom all day before escaping from the house through a window to avoid being noticed. Her neighbour witnessed the two leaving the scene in a taxi at around midnight on September 30. The two returned home on October 2. The grandmother asked the girl where she had gone with her mother but the girl refused to answer. The grandmother noticed her strange behaviour and blood stains on her underwear, so she asked the girl to speak about it and learned of the sexual assault. The girl told her grandmother that her mother took her to the house of a drug dealer called Bang Seed and let the man rape her in exchange for free drugs. The victim told her grandmother that she did not dare to resist and could not escape because the house was surrounded by a forest and was very dark. The grandmother then filed a complaint against Bang Seed and the girl’s mother at Min Buri Police Station. The grandmother condemned her daughter for her inhumane behaviour. Officers managed to arrest Bang Seed on October 15. Drugs and drug paraphernalia were seized from his house in the Min Buri district. The victim’s mother was arrested on Tuesday, October 29, at a house in the Khlong Sam Wa district. The mother faced five charges including: Section 276 of the Criminal Law: sexually assaulting another person by threatening or using a violent act. The penalty is imprisonment from four to 20 years and a fine from 80,000 to 400,000 baht. Section 278 of the Criminal Law: sexually assaulting a person aged over 15 years old by threatening or using any violent acts. The penalty is imprisonment of up to 10 years, a fine of up to 200,000 baht, or both. Section 284 of the Criminal Law: taking away another person for an obscene purpose by deceiving, intimidating, using force, or doing violence, shall be punished with imprisonment from one to ten years and a fine of 2,000 to 20,000 baht. Section 283 of the Criminal Law: taking children under 18 for an indecent purpose. The penalty is imprisonment of up to five years in prison, a fine of up to 100,000 baht, or both. Section 309 of the Criminal Law: coercing another person into performing an act they do not want to do by using violent acts or putting such a person in fear of injury to life, body, liberty, reputation, or property. The penalty is imprisonment for up to three years, a fine of up to 60,000 baht, or both. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 7 Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-31

Good Samaritans stop Pattaya transwoman stealing from German Photo via Facebook/ วันนี้ วันพระ Two Thai Good Samaritans helped a German man catch a transwoman who attempted to steal the foreigner‘s wallet near Soi 10 in Pattaya this morning. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342222-good-samaritans-stop-pattaya-transwoman-stealing-from-german/

Two Thai Good Samaritans helped a German man catch a transwoman who attempted to steal the foreigner‘s wallet near Soi 10 in Pattaya this morning. A 33 year old motorcycle taxi rider, Prathin, today, October 31, called officers from Mueang Pattaya Police Station to arrest the transgender suspect, 38 year old Thawatchai, along Pattaya Sai Song Road near Soi Pattaya 10. Prathin informed police that he was riding his motorcycle past the scene when the transwoman hugged the German man, later identified as 36 year old Philipp, and placed her hand into his trouser pocket. Fortunately, Philipp realised the trick and managed to retrieve his wallet from the suspect. The transgender suspect attempted to flee but Prathin and a local journalist managed to stop her. The suspect insisted that she did not attempt to pickpocket Philipp. On the contrary, the German man maintained that she tried to steal his wallet, leading her to confess to the crime. Thawatchai claimed this was her first time committing theft, explaining that she lacked the money to pay for her rented room. Philipp checked his wallet and found that his 4,000 baht in cash was intact. Consequently, he decided not to pursue legal action against Thawatchai. Police recorded Thawatchai’s criminal act but no legal charges or penalties were imposed. Prathin and the journalist told Channel 7 that they were perplexed by the actions of the police officers. They stated that, under Thai law, theft is a criminal case that cannot be compromised, expressing that the police should have arrested and prosecuted the transgender suspect. As of now, Mueang Pattaya Police Station has not yet issued a statement to clarify the matter. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ วันนี้ วันพระ Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-31

Thailand targets 3.5% GDP growth amid economic challenges Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira. Courtesy of Bangkok Post The Finance Ministry of Thailand has ambitiously set the stage for GDP growth by targeting a 3.5% annual increase. This announcement was made at the CEO Econmass Awards 2024, where Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira delivered a keynote address. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342221-thailand-targets-35-gdp-growth-amid-economic-challenges/

The Finance Ministry of Thailand has ambitiously set the stage for GDP growth by targeting a 3.5% annual increase. This announcement was made at the CEO Econmass Awards 2024, where Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira delivered a keynote address. The minister expressed optimism that next year’s growth rate could reach 3%, marking a 10% increase from this year’s forecasted 2.7%. “This 3% rate does not take into account the opportunities or potential Thailand has. Historically, Thailand’s GDP has grown as high as 5 to 6%.” The minister highlighted the importance of achieving a real GDP growth of 3.5% and suggested an ideal inflation rate of at least 2% for Thailand, while some countries find 2.5% acceptable in pursuit of high economic growth. Over the past decade, Thailand’s growth has been subdued, with an average of only 0.4% since the pandemic years. In 2022, the growth was 1.9%, and this year it is expected to be 2.7%. Pichai noted the decline in Thailand’s manufacturing sector, especially among small businesses, with utilisation rates dropping to as low as 50% at times. Pichai posed a critical question regarding economic choices between lower prices with limited purchasing power and higher prices with more money in consumers’ pockets. “We have to choose. Do we want lower prices for goods, but not much money to buy things? Or do we want higher prices for goods, but more money in consumers’ pockets?” Pichai stressed the need to prioritise economic growth over austerity measures and underlined the necessity of promoting domestic investment. He pointed out that the country’s liquidity could support investment, though current levels have diminished. He likened Thailand to a financially stable nation lacking future investment. Considering global trends Investment should align with global trends, such as the digital and green economies, along with efforts to enhance human skills, suggested the minister. He also cited that Board of Investment applications for 2023 and this year reached 2 trillion baht, the highest in a decade. One of the government’s investment promotion strategies includes amending the leasehold asset law and extending land leases up to 99 years from the current 30 years. This move aims to boost foreign investor confidence by offering long-term, worthwhile investments with land rights that can be used as collateral for loans. Pichai emphasised the need for infrastructure investment, particularly in logistics, which comprises 18% of Thailand’s GDP. An important project is the Land Bridge, designed to establish a transport hub between two oceans, thereby reducing shipment costs to and from China. The Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB) supported the ministry’s GDP growth outlook for 2025, driven by tourism, government stimulus measures, and an improving global economy. The JSCCIB forecasts Thai GDP growth of 3.5 to 4% next year, bolstered by enhanced trade and exports. Chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries, Kriengkrai Thiennukul reveals the possible challenges which may pose a danger to the Thai economy. “The JSCCIB hopes geopolitical conflicts will not turn more severe, affecting the Thai economy.” Tourism rebounding With tourism rebounding, foreign tourist arrivals are expected to hit 40 million next year, up from this year’s target of 36 million. However, Payong Srivanich, chairman of the Thai Bankers’ Association, cautioned that prolonged high levels of household debt could impact the 2025 economy. Sanan Angubolkul, chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, noted that severe flooding in the North has negatively impacted the economy this year, reducing growth projections to 2.6 to 2.7%. He expressed support for the government’s efforts to join BRICS, a coalition of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, which is developing a new payment system to lessen reliance on the US dollar, reported Bangkok Post. By Ryan Turner Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira. Courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-31

Thailand opens new border crossing with Cambodia to boost trade Image courtesy of KhaoSod The Thai government announced the opening of a new permanent border crossing between Thailand and Cambodia, alongside extending the operating hours of an existing checkpoint. These measures aim to bolster trade and tourism relations between the two nations. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342220-thailand-opens-new-border-crossing-with-cambodia-to-boost-trade/

The Thai government announced the opening of a new permanent border crossing between Thailand and Cambodia, alongside extending the operating hours of an existing checkpoint. These measures aim to bolster trade and tourism relations between the two nations. The Royal Gazette published two announcements from the Ministry of Interior, which were signed by Prime Minister Paethongtarn Shinawatra, and Anutin Charnvirakul, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior. These announcements, issued yesterday, October 30, are expected to enhance the relationship between Thailand and Cambodia, aiming to facilitate trade and tourism between the two countries. The first announcement concerns the opening of the permanent border crossing at the Thai-Cambodian Friendship Bridge (Nong Ian-Stung Bot) in Aranyaprathet district, Sa Kaeo province. This crossing, located opposite Stung Bot in Poi Pet, Banteay Meanchey, Cambodia, operates daily from 6am to 10pm. The new checkpoint is set to alleviate congestion at the Ban Khlong Luek or Aranyaprathet checkpoint, thus supporting the transport of goods and increasing trade and tourism in the border area. A second announcement details the extension of operating hours for the Chong Sa-ngam border crossing in Phu Sing district, Si Sa Ket province, which lies opposite Chong Chom in Anlong Veng district, Oddar Meanchey province, Cambodia. This checkpoint will now be open from 7am to 10pm every day, adding two extra hours to its previous schedule of 7am to 8pm. This extension acknowledges the increasing economic activities at the Chong Sa-ngam border crossing, driven by growing trade. Traisulee Traisoranakul, spokesperson for the Ministry of Interior sees the move to open a new checkpoint and increase the hours of operation as indicative of the growth of trade and tourism between Thailand and its neighbour Cambodia, reported KhaoSod. “The opening of the new permanent border crossing, along with extending the current operational hours of both checkpoints, reflects the growth in trade and tourism between Thailand and Cambodia. “This necessitates the expansion of infrastructure capabilities. These efforts further promote bilateral relations and cooperation in all aspects, ultimately benefiting the people of both countries in the long term.” The new measures are expected not only to improve logistical efficiency and trade volume but also to foster stronger cultural and social connections between the neighbouring countries. Both nations stand to gain from these developments, as they aim to create a more integrated and collaborative regional environment. By Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-31

Thailand Set to Proposal Casino Bill, Eyeing Economic Boost Photo: The Pattaya News Thailand's government, led by Deputy Finance Minister Chulaphan Amornvivat, is preparing to propose a landmark bill that could see legal casinos established within integrated entertainment complexes by the end of the year. Touted as a strategy to revitalise the nation’s economy, the initiative forecasts the development of multifaceted complexes combining leisure activities with discreet casino operations, capped at ten percent of each venue's function. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342156-thailand-set-to-proposal-casino-bill-eyeing-economic-boost/