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Thailand’s decision to delay the planned increase in the minimum wage to 400 baht per day will extend the wait by about two weeks, according to a senior labour official. This postponement, initially set for October 1, is due to the committee responsible for the hike not meeting quorum requirements in its recent sessions. The committee, comprising representatives from employers, labour, and the government, has twice failed to convene with the necessary number of members. Labour Ministry permanent secretary Pairoj Chotikasathien confirmed the government will move forward as quickly as possible, emphasising that the revised minimum wage will initially apply only to businesses with more than 200 employees. The increase, from the current daily wage range of 330 baht to 370 baht (US$10 to 11), aligns with the Pheu Thai party’s campaign promises. The ruling party has committed to further raising the minimum wage to 600 baht (US$18) by 2027. This wage hike forms part of the government’s broader strategy to stimulate growth in Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy, which has been struggling with high household debt and a decelerating manufacturing sector. In addition to the wage increase, the government is launching a significant economic stimulus package valued at 450 billion baht (US$13.7 billion). This initiative will distribute 10,000 baht (US$300) to each person to be spent within local communities, with the first phase expected to commence before the month’s end, reported Bangkok Post. The central bank projects that the economy will grow by 2.6% this year, improving from last year’s growth rate of 1.9%. By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Apichart Jinakul Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-24

In a chilling discovery on Sunday morning, the body of a foreign man was found hanged outside a resort in Koh Kaeo, Phuket province, leaving police scrambling to uncover his identity. The grim scene was uncovered by a hotel staff member at around 7.50am, on September 22, who immediately alerted the police. Arriving at the scene, officers were joined by rescue workers from the Kusoldharm Foundation and a forensic team from Vachira Phuket Hospital. The man, dressed entirely in black, had been hanged with a heavy-duty speaker cable tied to a steel support beam next to the building’s stairs. Witnesses at the resort mentioned that the man might have been Russian, though the reason for his tragic suicide is unknown. “We saw him last week, but no one knows who he is,” one guest remarked. Police are now working with the Russian Embassy to try and confirm the deceased’s identity, while also attempting to locate his relatives. Initial investigations suggest the man had been dead for at least eight to 12 hours before the horrifying discovery was made. A black bag and shoes were found on the stairs leading to the upper rooms, possibly belonging to the deceased. Despite initial reports that he rented a room at the resort, no official documents have yet been found to confirm his identity. The body has since been taken to Vachira Phuket Hospital for a post-mortem examination as police piece together the puzzle of this tragic death, reported Phuket News. 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.

Bangkok bonanza: Chinese tourists ‘Agoda’ crazy for Golden Week Photo by Jiraroad1 via Unsplash A popular travel booking platform, Agoda, reported that Bangkok is one of the top five destinations among Chinese tourists for the upcoming Golden Week from October 1 to 7. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338982-bangkok-bonanza-chinese-tourists-‘agoda’-crazy-for-golden-week/

A popular travel booking platform, Agoda, reported that Bangkok is one of the top five destinations among Chinese tourists for the upcoming Golden Week from October 1 to 7. Agoda revealed the number of searches for overseas accommodations by Chinese nationals on September 23. The report showed that the number of searches increased by 137% compared to the same period last year, 2023. Last year, Tokyo in Japan was the most popular destination among Chinese nationals but this year Seoul in South Korea overtook Japan, followed by Bali in Indonesia, Bangkok in Thailand, and Osaka in Japan. The platform added that this is the first time Bali has been included in the list. Kyoto, meanwhile, was unable to make the ranking this year, said Senior Vice President of Supply at Agoda, Andrew Smith. “The increase in outbound travel searches for China’s Golden Week suggests a growing confidence among Chinese citizens to explore international travel. It’s great to see destinations close to China’s east coast, like Seoul and Osaka, featured in the ranking, as well as holiday favourites Bangkok and Bali further south. “This trend underscores the importance of providing great value deals on diverse travel options to meet the evolving preferences of travellers on Agoda.” Despite being highlighted as a prime destination for Chinese tourists, Sorrathip Rojanapojjanarat, Advisor to the Hotel Association of Thailand, reported that hotel bookings have fallen short of expectations. While Chinese tourists were anticipated to start making reservations at the beginning of September, such bookings have been sparse. Sorrathip further noted a significant drop in spending per tourist per trip, with figures plummeting by 20% from 55,000 baht to just 44,000 baht per person. He urged the government and relevant departments to shift their focus from merely counting tourist numbers to also considering their spending levels. Sorrathip expressed concern that the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) will be unable to hit the target of 36.7 million tourists this year if Thailand loses a significant number of Chinese visitors during China’s Golden Week. By Petch Petpailin Photo by Jiraroad1 via Unsplash Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-24

Pattaya Teens Smash Ad Truck Screens, Driver Suspects Rivalry Plot Photo: The Pattaya News A gang of teenagers in Pattaya smashed LED advertisement screens on a truck with iron rods on 23rd September 2024. The incident occurred near Royal Garden Plaza, with the victim, Mr. Pongsakorn, 41, filing a report at Pattaya Police Station. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338911-pattaya-teens-smash-ad-truck-screens-driver-suspects-rivalry-plot/

A gang of teenagers in Pattaya smashed LED advertisement screens on a truck with iron rods on 23rd September 2024. The incident occurred near Royal Garden Plaza, with the victim, Mr. Pongsakorn, 41, filing a report at Pattaya Police Station. Mr. Pongsakorn was driving the truck to promote a new entertainment venue on Walking Street when the attack happened. The teenagers, on two motorcycles and wearing masks, targeted his truck's screens, causing damage exceeding 100,000 baht. Despite attempting to chase the suspects, heavy traffic impeded Mr. Pongsakorn's pursuit. He later saw them again near Pattaya Second Road, but they escaped into an alley. He promptly informed his company and filed a police report. Mr. Pongsakorn suspects the attack could be either an intimidation tactic by a business rival or a reaction to the brightness of the LED screens. Police are now reviewing CCTV footage and investigating the motives behind the incident, reported The Pattaya News. Photo: The Pattaya News -- 2024-09-23

Pheu Thai Defends Casino-Entertainment Complex Plan, Eyes GDP Boost File photo for reference only The Pheu Thai Party has stood firm on its proposed casino-entertainment complex project, outlining how it aims to legalise underground gambling and collect substantial tax revenue. In a statement released on their webpage yesterday, 22 September, the party highlighted that such legalisation could contribute to over 50% of Thailand's GDP, thereby significantly bolstering the economy and funding vital sectors like education. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338909-pheu-thai-defends-casino-entertainment-complex-plan-eyes-gdp-boost/

The Pheu Thai Party has stood firm on its proposed casino-entertainment complex project, outlining how it aims to legalise underground gambling and collect substantial tax revenue. In a statement released on their webpage yesterday, 22 September, the party highlighted that such legalisation could contribute to over 50% of Thailand's GDP, thereby significantly bolstering the economy and funding vital sectors like education. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, presenting the government’s policy in Parliament on 12 September, mentioned the long-standing resistance to the idea of legalised casinos. “For over 20 years, attempts to legitimise such economic activities failed due to societal opposition. Recent studies by various governments have made a case for their potential benefits,” she said. According to Pheu Thai, this initiative is part of a broader strategy to tap into the global fun economy, which the Finance Ministry estimates to be worth US$13.7 trillion (around 451 trillion baht). The global casino entertainment market alone was valued at US$1.5 trillion in 2022 and is expected to reach US$2.2 trillion by 2028. A bill to legalise casino operations within these complexes is now progressing, with the draft Entertainment Complex Act ready for public hearing, as required by the constitution. The bill includes a provision for a 30-year operational licence, costing operators an initial 5 billion baht and an annual fee of 1 billion baht. Key aspects of the bill also include barring those under 20 from entering these venues and charging a 5,000 baht entrance fee for Thai citizens, while keeping access open to all foreigners. The proposed project could generate at least 12 billion baht in taxes in its first year. An extensive House committee study examined economic, social, and cultural impacts, as well as business structure and operational criteria for these venues. Five potential locations have been identified: two in Bangkok, and one each in the Eastern Economic Corridor, Chiang Mai, and Phuket. Despite this, opposition voices, such as Pariyes Angkurakitti from the Thai Sang Thai Party, have raised concerns. Angkurakitti argued that weak law enforcement could undermine efforts to regulate the burgeoning casino industry, casting a shadow over Pheu Thai’s ambitious plans. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-23

Thai Military Sees Major Leadership Change in Annual Reshuffle File photo for reference only BANGKOK (23 September) — The Government of Thailand has announced a significant reshuffle within its military, involving the transfer of 808 officers to new posts. The reshuffle includes the appointment of new chiefs for the Royal Thai Army and Royal Thai Navy as current leaders prepare for retirement at the end of this month. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338908-thai-military-sees-major-leadership-change-in-annual-reshuffle/

BANGKOK (23 September) — The Government of Thailand has announced a significant reshuffle within its military, involving the transfer of 808 officers to new posts. The reshuffle includes the appointment of new chiefs for the Royal Thai Army and Royal Thai Navy as current leaders prepare for retirement at the end of this month. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra submitted the list of new appointments for royal endorsement, which was published on the Royal Gazette’s website yesterday. The changes are set to take effect on 1 October once endorsed. Among the key appointments is General Pana Klaewplodthuk, who will be the new commander-in-chief of the army. Pana, currently serving as the army’s chief-of-staff and a member of the renowned red-rim soldier fraternity, was nominated by the outgoing army chief, General Charoenchai Hintao. Pana’s term will extend until 2027. Another notable shift sees Admiral Jirapol Wongwit taking the helm as the navy’s new commander-in-chief, succeeding Admiral Adoong Pan-iam. Jirapol's appointment is particularly significant given his overseas naval academy education and the fact that he has not previously held key positions typically expected of a navy chief. The air force is also seeing strategic changes under ACM Panpakdee Pattanakul. He has appointed air force senior expert ACM Chainat Pholkit as his deputy, alongside promoting ACM Manat Chavanaprayoon as the chairman of the Air Force advisory board. These appointments are part of the government's efforts to ensure a smooth transition and maintain stability within the armed forces. Both the public and military analysts have been closely monitoring these developments, as they signal significant changes in the leadership of Thailand’s military branches. The comprehensive reshuffle aims to reinforce the military's leadership and bolster its operational readiness, ensuring that Thailand’s armed forces remain a strong and effective force in the region. Once the royal endorsement is received, the new appointments will officially take effect from 1 October. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-23

Chula university cancels launch of book critical of Thai military Image courtesy of Same Sky Books Chulalongkorn University cancelled plans to host a seminar and book launch for a publication by one of its scholars, Doctor Puangthong Pawakapan, which discusses the role of the Thai military. The event, originally scheduled for this upcoming Friday, September 28, has been moved to the Jim Thompson Museum instead of being held on campus as originally planned. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338907-chula-university-cancels-launch-of-book-critical-of-thai-military/

Chulalongkorn University cancelled plans to host a seminar and book launch for a publication by one of its scholars, Doctor Puangthong Pawakapan, which discusses the role of the Thai military. The event, originally scheduled for this upcoming Friday, September 27, has been moved to the Jim Thompson Museum instead of being held on campus as originally planned. Dr Puangthong, an academic at the Political Science Faculty, shared the news on Facebook, stating that university executives barred the use of any venue at Chula for the launch of her book titled ‘Infiltrating Society: The Thai Military’s Internal Security Affairs,’ without providing a clear reason. Despite this, the university’s International Relations Department continues to support the event. The seminar will focus on the Thai edition of her award-winning book, originally published in English by the Yusof Ishak Institute in Singapore in 2021. The Thai edition is printed by Same Sky Books. The book is based on a two-year research project that earned awards from Chulalongkorn University in 2023 and from Foreign Affairs magazine in 2022. This cancellation follows criticism from the Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC) on 14 September, which accused Dr Puangthong of lacking expertise in security matters. ISOC called for the book and related forums to be banned, claiming they could mislead the public and harm the image of the military. The agency threatened legal action against her and requested the university review her ethics. In response, Dr Puangthong defended her work in a subsequent, highlighting that her research had been rigorously reviewed by international experts. She invited ISOC to join the seminar and publicly discuss the issue instead of seeking to suppress it. The upcoming forum will include notable speakers such as Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, co-founder of the now-disbanded Future Forward Party, and Prajak Kongkirati from Thammasat University’s Political Science Faculty, both known for their criticism of military coups and political interference by the armed forces, reported Bangkok Post. By Ryan Turner Image courtesy of Same Sky Books Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-23

Kamronwit wins Pathum Thani PAO mayoral election re-run Photo: Thai PBS World Retired Pol Lt Gen Kamronwit Thoopkrajang won the re-run election for mayor of the Pathum Thani Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO) on Sunday, attracting 187,397 votes against his closest rival, Charn Puangpetch, who received 119,889, according to the unofficial vote count at 8.30pm. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338906-kamronwit-wins-pathum-thani-pao-mayoral-election-re-run/

Retired Pol Lt Gen Kamronwit Thoopkrajang won the re-run election for mayor of the Pathum Thani Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO) on Sunday, attracting 187,397 votes against his closest rival, Charn Puangpetch, who received 119,889, according to the unofficial vote count at 8.30pm. The two other candidates, Noppadol Laddayaem and Athiwat Sornnoei, received 9,828 and 7,652 votes respectively. The re-run of the election was held yesterday after the Election Commission invalidated the victory of Charn Puangpetch in the PAO original election held on June 30th, after he violated the local election law by holding a party for voters. Photo: Thai PBS World Full story: Thai PBS World -- 2024-09-23

Attacks on Narathiwat's Hala-Bala Wildlife Sanctuary most violent in two decades Photo: Thai PBS World The weekend attacks on the Hala-Bala Wildlife Sanctuary office and buildings in Narathiwat province were the most violent in the past 22 years, following weapon thefts in 2002 and 2006, the director general of the National Parks and Wildlife Department said today. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338905-attacks-on-narathiwats-hala-bala-wildlife-sanctuary-most-violent-in-two-decades/

The weekend attacks on the Hala-Bala Wildlife Sanctuary office and buildings in Narathiwat province were the most violent in the past 22 years, following weapon thefts in 2002 and 2006, the director general of the National Parks and Wildlife Department said today. Attapon Charoenchansa stated that it was fortunate that no one was injured in the attack on Saturday, in which armed assailants torched the office, tied up four officials and made off with numerous weapons. Attapon indicated today that the number of weapons taken included 11 official shotguns and one personal pistol. Earlier, it was mentioned that ten shotguns and two handguns were stolen. Photo: Thai PBS World Full story: Thai PBS World -- 2024-09-23

Thai Bolt Driver Surrenders After Assault Over Fare Dispute in Chon Buri - video File photo for reference only A Bolt driver has turned himself in to police after slapping a female passenger inside her Chon Buri home on Saturday due to a payment delay. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338901-thai-bolt-driver-surrenders-after-assault-over-fare-dispute-in-chon-buri-video/

A Bolt driver has turned himself in to police after slapping a female passenger inside her Chon Buri home on Saturday due to a payment delay. Jutathip Motanee, 37, lodged a complaint at Nongprue Police Station following the altercation, which occurred on September 21st. She provided security camera footage showing the assault. The video captures Jutathip and the driver entering her residence on Phattanakarn Road in Bang Lamung district, followed by scenes of the driver pushing Jutathip to the ground and striking her. In the footage, the driver demands the fare as Jutathip promises a bank transfer, explaining she had no cash and her mobile phone’s battery had died. She convinced him she needed to charge her phone to make the transaction. Despite her reassurances, the driver refused to wait, resulting in the violent confrontation. Jutathip recounted that she booked the ride via the Bolt app and fell asleep during the journey. The driver awakened her outside her village and asked for the fare. Finding herself without cash and unable to use her phone due to a dead battery, she went inside her home to charge it and make the transfer. However, the driver, seemingly doubting her intent to pay, followed her in and assaulted her. Upon surrendering to the police, the driver admitted to the assault but claimed it stemmed from an argument during the ride and fear of not receiving the fare. Authorities are yet to disclose the consequences faced by the driver, who remains unnamed. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-23

Monk with Sword Causes Commotion in Bangkok's Lad Ya Area - video File photo for reference only A startling incident unfolded in the Lad Ya area of Bangkok, on the night of September 22, when a man dressed as a monk was spotted brandishing a sword in the middle of the road. The commotion took place in the Khlong San district and was quickly captured on video and shared widely on social media. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338900-monk-with-sword-causes-commotion-in-bangkoks-lad-ya-area-video/

Picture courtesy: Komchadluek A startling incident unfolded in the Lad Ya area of Bangkok, on the night of September 22, when a man dressed as a monk was spotted brandishing a sword in the middle of the road. The commotion took place in the Khlong San district and was quickly captured on video and shared widely on social media. Residents who witnessed the event were quick to alert authorities, concerned for their safety. Contrary to the humorous insinuation by a popular Facebook post that the monk was merely reserving a spot for alms collection, the scene was anything but amusing for onlookers. Police officers from the Somdet Chao Phraya station were dispatched promptly. Chaipon Chancheua, a 33-year-old volunteer with the Ruamkatanyu Foundation, was among the first responders. Chaipon recounted that his team had been stationed at Wongwian Yai around 1am when they received reports from anxious citizens about the armed individual. Upon arrival, they found the man standing in the road, erratically wielding the sword. As Chaipon and his team approached, the man drew the sword from its sheath and attempted to walk away. Police officers successfully subdued him before he could cause any harm to people or property. The man remained silent when questioned and was taken into custody at the Somdet Chao Phraya Police Station for further investigation. Authorities have not yet shared the individual's identity or the details of their probe but confirmed that there was no immediate threat to the public once the situation was brought under control. This unusual event has left the community shaken, but grateful for the quick response of the local authorities. The story continues to develop as the police delve deeper into the man's motives. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-23

Thailand Embraces Larger Super Yachts to Boost Marine Tourism File photo for reference only In a strategic move to bolster its marine tourism industry, Thailand's Transport Ministry has eased regulations to allow larger cruise ships and super yachts to operate in its waters. The announcement was made by Deputy Minister Manaporn Charoensri on 22nd September, citing recent changes by the Marine Department. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338898-thailand-embraces-larger-super-yachts-to-boost-marine-tourism/

In a strategic move to bolster its marine tourism industry, Thailand's Transport Ministry has eased regulations to allow larger cruise ships and super yachts to operate in its waters. The announcement was made by Deputy Minister Manaporn Charoensri on 22nd September, citing recent changes by the Marine Department. The revisions focus on expanding vessel size allowances, reducing the minimum length requirement for super yachts from 30 metres to 24 metres, while maintaining a maximum of 12 passengers, aligning with international standards. Insurance coverage was also updated, mandating at least US$5 million per incident, and administrative processes have been streamlined with a new electronic application system. These changes aim to transform Thailand into a premier maritime hub in Asia, targeting affluent foreign tourists. Historical data reflects a positive trend, with the number of super yachts visiting Phuket tripling over the past three years, from 41 in 2021 to 148 in 2023. Major destinations like Phuket and Koh Samui are central to these developments, and two new cruise terminal projects are underway at Laem Chabang Port and Koh Samui, enhancing the appeal of Thailand's coasts. With these initiatives, Thailand seeks to solidify its status as a leading regional centre for ocean tourism and cruise travel. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-23

Condor Resumes Direct Flights to Thailand, Boosting Tourism Revival File photo for reference only The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) celebrated the arrival of Condor flight DE2368 from Frankfurt to Phuket yesterday, marking the airline's return to the route after a hiatus due to the pandemic. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338897-condor-resumes-direct-flights-to-thailand-boosting-tourism-revival/

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) celebrated the arrival of Condor flight DE2368 from Frankfurt to Phuket yesterday, marking the airline's return to the route after a hiatus due to the pandemic. This resumption is a significant milestone for Thailand's tourism recovery, with TAT projecting over 979,000 German tourists this year, expected to generate around 65 billion baht in revenue. The renewed direct flights signify a strong demand for long-haul travel to Thailand, which is crucial for aiding the tourism sector's bounce back. Condor's return includes two key routes: Frankfurt to Phuket with two flights weekly, starting yesterday, and Frankfurt to Bangkok with four flights weekly, beginning today, both serviced by Airbus A330neo aircraft. Passengers landing in Phuket received a warm welcome from TAT officials and representatives from government and private sectors. The reception, featuring gifts and promotions under the "Amazing Thailand" brand, highlighted Thailand's standing as a premier tourist destination. German tourists are now the third-largest European group visiting Thailand, with a noticeable surge post-pandemic. TAT sees them as a high-potential market, especially during Germany’s winter months. These tourists favour Thai beach destinations, health and wellness retreats, and eco-friendly tourism options. Interestingly, 60% of German visitors are repeat tourists, many being families and professionals who prefer independent travel. This trend underscores Thailand’s enduring appeal and the success of TAT's marketing strategies. The collaboration between TAT and Condor is set to revitalise Thailand’s tourism industry, reinforcing the country as a prime choice for international travellers. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-23