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Pattaya initiates youth esports contest to foster unity Picture courtesy of The Pattaya News official website The Youth Esports Competition Project has been introduced by the Pattaya City Education Office to provide a platform for young people to display their esports talents while fostering a sense of unity and camaraderie within the community. The grand opening event occurred yesterday at Pattaya City Hall, with Mayor Poramese Ngampiches presiding. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334491-pattaya-initiates-youth-esports-contest-to-foster-unity/

The Youth Esports Competition Project has been introduced by the Pattaya City Education Office to provide a platform for young people to display their esports talents while fostering a sense of unity and camaraderie within the community. The grand opening event occurred yesterday at Pattaya City Hall, with Mayor Poramese Ngampiches presiding. Alongside Mayor Poramese were the 2nd Vice President of the Pattaya City Council, Banjong Bantoorprayuk, and the Director of the Pattaya City Education Office, Nopphasitcha Na Nakhon. Executives from True 5G – Esports Company attended the event, as well as enthusiastic teachers and students from eleven schools under Pattaya City’s jurisdiction. The Youth Esports Competition, set to run today, August 2, and tomorrow, presents young participants with the opportunity to showcase their Esports skills. The competition is split into two categories: under-15 and under-18. The under-15 category features 23 teams, while the under-18 category includes eight teams. All participants are students from various schools within Pattaya City. Mayor Poramese highlighted the importance of esports in the modern digital era, noting that gaming has evolved beyond mere entertainment to offer opportunities for income and career development. He urged young people to make productive use of their free time by enhancing their esports skills. “This initiative is part of the Better Pattaya policy, which focuses on technological advancement and community well-being. “Gaming is not just a pastime anymore, It opens doors to new career paths and income sources. We want our youth to be well-prepared for these opportunities.” Great opportunity The project also aims to bring together students from different schools, fostering community bonds through friendly competition. Participating teams have expressed excitement about the event, seeing it as a chance to test their skills and meet peers with similar interests, Mayor Poramese said. “The involvement of True 5G – Esports Company adds a professional dimension to the event. Their representatives provided insights into the potential career paths within the esports industry, further inspiring the young participants. “The esports industry is growing rapidly as stated by a True 5G executive. We are here to guide and support these young talents as they explore the possibilities in this field. “The Youth Esports Competition Project is not just about competition, it also includes workshops and seminars aimed at educating participants about the broader aspects of esports. These sessions cover topics like teamwork, strategy, and the responsible use of gaming technology. “We want our students to understand that E-sports require more than just playing games as explained by Nopphasitcha Na Nakhon. It’s about strategy, teamwork, and using technology responsibly. “Teachers and parents have shown strong support for the initiative, recognising its potential to engage students in positive activities while teaching valuable life skills.” The Youth Esports Competition Project reflects Pattaya City’s commitment to embracing technological advancements and providing its youth with opportunities to thrive in modern, digital environments, reported the Pattaya News. By Sarishti Arora Picture courtesy of The Pattaya News official website Full story: The Thaiger 2024-08-02 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand calls for strict e-cigarette law amid rising seizures Picture courtesy of TAT newsroom official page Thailand’s Deputy Public Health Minister called for the creation of a distinct law aimed at restricting the use and sale of e-cigarettes, citing the ineffectiveness of current regulations. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334490-thailand-calls-for-strict-e-cigarette-law-amid-rising-seizures/

Thailand’s Deputy Public Health Minister called for the creation of a distinct law aimed at restricting the use and sale of e-cigarettes, citing the ineffectiveness of current regulations. During a discussion at the National Health Commission Office yesterday, Health Minister Thanakrit Jitareerat highlighted the absence of a specific law addressing e-cigarettes. While the Public Health Ministry has established a task force to examine the issue, he noted that various agencies independently enforce measures based on different laws. “The measures we have rolled out to date have proved ineffective, so a specific law on the matter must be drafted as soon as possible, describing vaping as a serious threat to society.” He criticised government officials who continue to vape despite the e-cigarette ban, attributing them as a factor hindering the crackdown’s progress. National Health Commission Office (NHCO) chairman, Banjerd Singkaneti, argued that the prime minister should prioritise refining existing laws to provide clearer guidelines for authorities. “In the long run, possession of e-cigarettes should be clearly prohibited by law so that the police will have no excuse not to pursue legal action,” Banjerd said. He also suggested that government officials be held accountable if e-cigarette sales are found in areas under their jurisdiction. The Office of the Consumer Protection Board reported a significant increase in the number of e-cigarettes seized, rising from 27,000 in 2020 to 100,000 last year, reported Bangkok Post. By Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of TAT newsroom official page Full story: The Thaiger 2024-08-02 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai tourists favour China and Japan over South Korea Photo courtesy of www.asahi.com A marked decline in the number of Thai tourists travelling to South Korea has been observed over the past seven months, with many opting instead for trips to China and Japan. The Korea Tourism Organisation (KTO) reported that 20,150 Thais visited South Korea in June, a significant drop from the 25,023 recorded during the same period last year. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334489-thai-tourists-favour-china-and-japan-over-south-korea/

A marked decline in the number of Thai tourists travelling to South Korea has been observed over the past seven months, with many opting instead for trips to China and Japan. The Korea Tourism Organisation (KTO) reported that 20,150 Thais visited South Korea in June, a significant drop from the 25,023 recorded during the same period last year. This downward trend has persisted since November 2023, and during the first half of this year, South Korea attracted 168,328 Thai travellers, down 19.1% from 208,100 during the same period last year. Vice-President of the Thai Travel Agents Association Chotechuang Soorangura noted that while South Korea saw a decline, the number of Thais travelling to Japan, China, and Europe continued to grow in the first half of the year. China, in particular, experienced a threefold increase due to a previously restrictive visa application process. “The trend of outbound trips to South Korea will continue to decline as Thais now have more affordable options like Japan with a weak yen and China with low expenses and convenient entry.” Europe has also seen a resurgence in Thai tourists, driven by a 15% reduction in airfares and accommodation costs, and the Paris Olympics, which is expected to boost demand for the rest of the year. Chief executive of Thai AirAsia Santisuk Klongchaiya highlighted the importance of visa policies in influencing travel trends. Since the announcement of a permanent visa exemption between Thailand and China in March, Thai AirAsia has seen a 30% increase in Thai passengers on flights to China. The share of Thai passengers on these routes has risen from 10% pre-pandemic to 15% currently. “The growth in Thai passengers to China helps offset the slow inbound Chinese market, which has been affected by stagnant economic conditions on the mainland.” Santisuk anticipates that the proportion of Thai passengers on China routes will grow to 20% by the end of the year. Chinese destinations such as Zhangjiajie, Shangri-La, Kunming, and Guangzhou continue to attract Thai tourists with their natural attractions and affordable travel costs. Thai AirAsia’s flights to Japan also recorded strong numbers, with a 90% load factor in the first half of the year. According to the Japan National Tourism Organisation, 618,300 Thais visited Japan from January to June, up 24.2% year-on-year. Despite June being the low season, Japan welcomed 54,600 Thai travellers, a 6.3% increase compared to the same period last year, reported Bangkok Post. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of www.asahi.com Full story: The Thaiger 2024-08-02 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

MOPH’s plan to rub out illicit activities in Thai massage shops Photo by Etienne Girardet via Flickr The Minister of Public Health (MOPH) plans to clean up traditional Thai massage shops after 75% were found to secretly offer sex services. The Health Minister, Somsak Thepsutin, stated he aims to clean up the seedy side of the industry and promote Thai massage as a soft power. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334488-moph’s-plan-to-rub-out-illicit-activities-in-thai-massage-shops/

The Minister of Public Health (MOPH) plans to clean up traditional Thai massage shops after 75% were found to secretly offer sex services. The Health Minister, Somsak Thepsutin, stated he aims to clean up the seedy side of the industry and promote Thai massage as a soft power. The President of the Charawi Association for the Preservation of Thai Massage, Phithak Yotha, urged the MOPH to investigate foreigners working illegally in Thailand’s wellness industry. He also requested the ministry simplify massage therapist registration and encourage Thai massage as a soft power. Minister Somsak agreed with Phithak’s suggestions, stating they align with the government’s measures to promote Thai massage. Somsak disclosed that the Department of Health Service Support will improve Thai massage therapists’ skills and certify those able to treat musculoskeletal issues as Grade A therapists. Massage service costs will also be standardised. Somsak then highlighted the illegal sex services secretly offered in some Thai traditional massage shops, which could negatively impact Thai massage. The minister stated that all massage parlours in Thailand must be free of sexual services. Somsak threatened to close down all shops secretly operating as brothels. He hopes to clean up all massage parlours within two months before the next fiscal year begins. The Director of the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine, Taweesin Visanuyothin, reported that only 25% of massage parlours in Thailand operate legally, while the remaining 75% illegally offer sexual services. Charawi Association President Phithak urged the MOPH to investigate those illegal massage shops, which can be found almost everywhere, especially in Bangkok’s Sukhumvit and Thong Lo areas. Phithak stated that some illegal parlours use the word “massage” to disguise prostitution, even when it was clear they only offer sexual services. He cited an example of a parlour advertising massage with promotional models known in Thailand as “Massage with Pretties.” By Petch Petpailin Photo by Etienne Girardet via Flickr Full story: The Thaiger 2024-08-02 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Homeless man attacks security guard in Sakon Nakhon mall Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A homeless man attacked a security guard at a shopping mall in Sakon Nakhon, confessing that he intended to use drugs before committing the act. The vagrant has a criminal record and had been defrocked after a stint in prison for drug-related offences. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334487-homeless-man-attacks-security-guard-in-sakon-nakhon-mall/

A homeless man attacked a security guard at a shopping mall in Sakon Nakhon, confessing that he intended to use drugs before committing the act. The vagrant has a criminal record and had been defrocked after a stint in prison for drug-related offences. Police received a report of a man attacking a security guard at a shopping mall. The incident took place near a public park walkway leading to the mall. Upon arrival, officers found Thongchan Sriuthai, a 44 year old resident of Sakon Nakhon, tied up by security guards and waiting for police. Next to him was a black backpack containing drug paraphernalia and various sharp objects, including a small knife and scissors. The small knife used in the attack was confiscated as evidence. Thongchan was taken to the local police station and charged with attempted murder and assault. Mongkol, the head security guard, sustained an injury on the left side of his chin. He explained that Thongchan, a known vagrant, frequently stole items from the mall. The previous day, Mongkol had ejected him from the premises. Early this morning, Thongchan returned, shouting from a distance before throwing a three-pronged wrench at Mongkol and then attacking him with a knife. Thongchan attempted to stab Mongkol multiple times in the stomach, side, and back. Mongkol fought back but was slashed on his left cheek. A gardener working nearby came to Mongkol’s aid, preventing the situation from escalating further. Mongkol attributed his narrow escape to the sacred amulets he had been wearing, which he believed protected him. Previous record Thongchan admitted to having served a six-year prison sentence for using and selling methamphetamine. After his release, he became a monk but was defrocked for drug use and drink driving. He then travelled from his hometown in Sakon Nakhon in early July to search for relatives, only to discover they had all passed away. To survive, he sold collected garbage. Thongchan admitted to attacking the security guard out of anger for being expelled from the mall. Before the incident, he drank white liquor and took half a meth pill to boost his courage. He confessed that he intended to kill the security guard but failed. Thongchan expressed frustration, noting that others could enter the mall while he could not. Sith, a 28 year old gardener, witnessed the incident. While trimming the garden near the scene, he saw Thongchan brandishing a weapon and charging at the head security guard. Realising Thongchan’s intent to kill, Sith intervened and managed to subdue him until the police arrived. Sith noted that it was fortunate Thongchan had used a small knife, as a larger weapon could have resulted in more severe injuries to the security guard, reported KhaoSod. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Full story: The Thaiger 2024-08-02 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Gay voyeur caught filming truck driver in petrol station bathroom Photo via Channel 7 A group of Thai truck drivers held a perverted gay man for over two hours after he filmed a trucker taking a shower in a bathroom at a petrol station in the Isaan province of Udon Thani. The police were later called to the scene. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334486-gay-voyeur-caught-filming-truck-driver-in-petrol-station-bathroom/

A group of Thai truck drivers held a perverted gay man for over two hours after he filmed a trucker taking a shower in a bathroom at a petrol station in the Isaan province of Udon Thani. The police were later called to the scene. Officers from Mueang Udon Thani Police Station were called to the petrol station bathroom yesterday morning, August 1, after the suspect, 22 year old Mor, recorded naked videos and pictures of a 28 year old lorry driver, A, during his shower. A told police that he was a truck driver and stopped at the petrol station to shower and rest. While he was showering, he noticed a mobile phone being projected over the top of his shower room. He shouted for help and other truck drivers came to surround the bathroom to prevent the voyeuristic pervert, Mor, from escaping. According to A, Mor locked himself inside the bathroom for over two hours, even though he and others demanded that he exit and resolve the issue. A reported the matter to a petrol station worker. The petrol station worker then called police to the scene and used a key to open the bathroom. Mor left the bathroom but covered his head with a jacket and refused to talk to anyone. The police searched him but did not find any illegal items. Officers then searched his mobile phone and found many explicit videos and pictures of himself and his male friends, along with pornography. However, no pictures or videos of A were found. The police suspected that Mor had already deleted them. Mor told police that he had gone to an entertainment venue with his friends on July 31 and continued drinking alcohol at his friend’s home until 4am on August 1. He entered the petrol station to wash his face before continuing his journey home. However, Mor fell asleep in the bathroom and woke up when he heard A taking a shower at about 7am. He admitted to trying to take a picture and video of A and added that he locked himself inside the bathroom for hours because he was scared of being attacked by the other truck drivers. A decided not to take any legal action against Mor because his videos and pictures had already been deleted. A asked Mor to promise that he would never repeat his actions with anyone else and let him go. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 7 Full story: The Thaiger 2024-08-02 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Japanese man detained for attempted sexual assault on an intoxicated Thai woman File photo for reference only A Japanese man was arrested for attempting to sexually assault an inebriated Thai lady on Royal City Avenue (RCA), Bangkok, in the early morning hours of Sunday. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334405-japanese-man-detained-for-attempted-sexual-assault-on-an-intoxicated-thai-woman/

A Japanese man was arrested for attempting to sexually assault an inebriated Thai lady on Royal City Avenue (RCA), Bangkok, in the early morning hours of Sunday. The woman and her boyfriend lodged a complaint at Makkasan Police Station after the incident, which occurred around 4.40am on July 28. The couple provided police and Channel 3 with surveillance footage captured on various CCTV cameras at RCA. The woman recounted that she was under the influence and waiting on the second level of a car park building for her boyfriend to retrieve her car. While seated on a bench, the Japanese man approached and proceeded to sit beside her, draping an arm around her. When she turned away, he withdrew his arm but persisted with his advances, forcing her head onto his lap, and touching her improperly. His actions were interrupted by passersby. According to the woman and CCTV footage, the man then picked the woman up and transported her to the building's ground floor and into a taxi. When she attempted to call her boyfriend, the man seized her phone. Upon realizing she was communicating with her boyfriend, he instructed the taxi driver to halt, threw her out of the vehicle, and then drove off in the cab. The woman's boyfriend claimed to be en route to collect his girlfriend when he received a distress call from her, saying that the Japanese man was attempting to relocate her. She informed her boyfriend that she was on RCA Road after a struggle over the phone. Her boyfriend instructed her to secure herself in the car and wait for his arrival. Upon arriving, he escorted her to Makkasan Police Station. Police quickly apprehended the Japanese suspect identified as 27-year old Nichimura. Initially, Nichimura denied these accusations. However, he later confessed to unintentional assault, blaming it on his state of intoxication. Nichimura was charged with sexual assault and detaining another person, after which he was granted bail at 50,000 baht. His passport was confiscated while he awaits court proceedings, and he is prohibited from leaving Thailand. File photo for reference only -- 2024-08-01 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand's Central Bank Plans Credit Card Minimum Payment Revision File photo for reference only Thailand's Central Bank, or the Bank of Thailand (BOT), is looking into a reduction on the minimum payment rate for credit card debt. They are currently in talks with the issuers of credit cards. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334403-thailands-central-bank-plans-credit-card-minimum-payment-revision/

Thailand's Central Bank, or the Bank of Thailand (BOT), is looking into a reduction on the minimum payment rate for credit card debt. They are currently in talks with the issuers of credit cards. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin had asked the BOT to think about bringing the rate down from the proposed 8% to 5%. This was to offer some relief to consumers who are finding it difficult financially. The BOT wants to reach a final decision soon due to the importance of the issue. The Assistant Governor of the BOT, Chayawadee Chai-Anant, mentioned that any changes will be done with enough warning for financial establishments to change their systems. This is to make sure customers can manage their repayments effectively. There are growing concerns in Thailand about rising household debts, which might go beyond 16.9 trillion baht by the end of 2024. This could make up more than 91% of Thailand's GDP. The slow recovery of the economy and low income growth are the reasons many are falling into debt, even turning to informal sources for loans. Economists and policy makers are worried about the long-term effects this could have on the economy. There's fear of increasing non-performing loans (NPLs). File photo for reference only -- 2024-08-01 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Power play: Prawit Wongsuwan’s desperate bid for PM backfires Photo courtesy of The Nation Palang Pracharath (PPRP)’s political manoeuvres seem to have backfired, with internal rifts threatening to tear the party apart. Samart Jenchaijitwanich’s attempts to bolster Prawit Wongsuwan’s chances of becoming prime minister by luring politicians from rival parties have caused an uproar. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334402-power-play-prawit-wongsuwan’s-desperate-bid-for-pm-backfires/

Palang Pracharath (PPRP)’s political manoeuvres seem to have backfired, with internal rifts threatening to tear the party apart. Samart Jenchaijitwanich’s attempts to bolster Prawit Wongsuwan’s chances of becoming prime minister by luring politicians from rival parties have caused an uproar. The latest recruit, Wan Yubamrung, was presented alongside Prawit on July 23, following his exit from the Pheu Thai Party. Samart proudly declared this as a victory, but not everyone was cheering. Wan’s departure from Pheu Thai was marred by clashes with its leader, Paetongtarn Shinawatra. His new alliance with Palang Pracharath sparked fears of a strained relationship between the coalition partners. Moreover, Samart’s warning that Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s choice to reside at Government House instead of the official prime minister’s residence could spell bad luck has only fueled tensions. The friction within the coalition might escalate into a full-blown conflict, especially if more MPs are recruited to support Prawit. Despite Samart’s controversial moves being backed by Prawit, they have stirred unrest within Palang Pracharath. MPs are now rallying to expel Samart, viewing his actions as a betrayal. Prawit’s willingness to risk his party’s unity for his prime ministerial ambitions has alienated many within Palang Pracharath. The looming threat of expulsion from the coalition government and the potential splintering of the party are real risks. As key political players prepare for possible shifts, Prawit appears ready to sacrifice everything for a shot at becoming Thailand’s 31st Prime Minister, even if it means the demise of the very party he helped build, reported The Nation. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Full story: The Thaiger 2024-08-01 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand outbound travel takes a dive amid economic woes File photo for reference only Thailand’s outbound travel market is facing a sharp decline, with consumer spending power plummeting and overseas holiday plans on hold. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334401-thailand-outbound-travel-takes-a-dive-amid-economic-woes/

Thailand’s outbound travel market is facing a sharp decline, with consumer spending power plummeting and overseas holiday plans on hold. Charoen Wangananont, President of the Thai Travel Agents Association (TTAA), revealed in an exclusive interview with Krungthep Turakij that economic uncertainties have led many Thais to postpone international trips to avoid extra costs during these tough times. “We had initially expected around 7 to 8 million Thais to travel abroad in 2024, significantly down from the 12 million in 2019 before the pandemic. But we must reassess our projections, especially for the typically busy fourth quarter, which looks set to be weak.” In response to the economic climate, the TTAA scrapped its mid-year Thai International Travel Fair (TITF) in Bangkok, a first in over a decade. The next fair is now slated for January 16 to 19. Despite the downturn, China has become a hot destination for Thai tourists, thanks to budget-friendly tour packages and a new permanent visa exemption between the two countries. This has led to an estimated one million Thais heading to China this year. However, Charoen warned of a possible slowdown in Chinese travel demand. Japan is forecasted to be the top destination for Thai tourists in 2024, with 1.2 million visitors expected, while countries like Malaysia, Vietnam, and Laos are becoming popular for their affordability. Traditional favourites like South Korea, Taiwan, and Hong Kong have seen a decline, with South Korea’s stringent K-ETA system contributing to a drop in visitor numbers. Thanapon Chewarattanaporn, managing director of Quality Express Co Ltd and TTAA vice president, noted a surge in sales for China tour packages. He cautioned, however, that rising costs in Japan and the high price of European tours could dampen travel enthusiasm, despite some interest sparked by the Paris Olympic Games. The Thai outbound travel market faces an uphill battle as economic constraints force a shift towards cheaper destinations and more flexible travel options, reported The Nation. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Full story: The Thaiger 2024-08-01 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Chinese-owned factory fined 1.8 billion baht for waste water in reservoir Photo via Thansettakij Chachoengsao Provincial Court fined a Chinese-owned factory 1.8 billion baht for releasing waste water into the Jone Reservoir in the central province of Chachoengsao. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334400-chinese-owned-factory-fined-18-billion-baht-for-waste-water-in-reservoir/

Chachoengsao Provincial Court fined a Chinese-owned factory 1.8 billion baht for releasing waste water into the Jone Reservoir in the central province of Chachoengsao. THH Moly Processing Company’s illegal action came to light in 2019 after 2 million cubic metres of water in the Jone Reservoir was contaminated with multiple toxic substances. Locals could not use the water for consumption or agriculture. An investigation into the source of the contamination revealed that THH Moly Processing Company, located about 500 metres away from the reservoir, illegally released waste water. The chemical substances found in the water were the same as what the factory used. The Pollution Control Department sued the company in 2022 and demanded 1.8 billion baht in compensation from the three Chinese company directors. Chachoengsao Provincial Court delivered a verdict on the case yesterday, July 31, ordering the company to pay approximately 1.8 million baht in compensation to four government departments. The fine was divided into four government departments: the Pollution Control Department, the Department of Groundwater Resources, the Royal Irrigation Department, and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. Channel 3 reported that the THH Moly Processing company had new managing directors after being sued. The Department of Industrial Works then suspected the company’s operation was undergoing a renovation and the process is still ongoing. The director of the Chachoengsao Provincial Royal Irrigation Office told Channel 3 that the water in the reservoir could benefit more than a thousand households in the area. Therefore, the department and other relevant departments would push for a speedy recovery for the benefit of the residents. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Thansettakij Full story: The Thaiger 2024-08-01 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Two Unlucky Thai Thieves Arrested for Showing Off Stolen Wealth File photo for reference only Two Thai thieves were caught by the police after they flaunted their stolen wealth to their neighbors in Songkhla, a southern province in Thailand. A 67-year-old victim named Itsaree reported to the Mueang Songkhla Police that her valuables were stolen from her home on Saiburi Road on July 25 around 8pm. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334395-two-unlucky-thai-thieves-arrested-for-showing-off-stolen-wealth/

Two Thai thieves were caught by the police after they flaunted their stolen wealth to their neighbors in Songkhla, a southern province in Thailand. A 67-year-old victim named Itsaree reported to the Mueang Songkhla Police that her valuables were stolen from her home on Saiburi Road on July 25 around 8pm. The culprits, Wissanu On-norm, 45, and Narate Jitsopha, 30, were arrested on July 31. Wissanu was apprehended at a resort while Narate was found at his home. According to the police, Wissanu was an illegal resident in Thailand with no identification card. The two were successfully caught with help from the locals living near Narate's house. Narate had frequently boasted about his sudden wealth, which made his neighbors question the origin of his money and eventually alerted the authorities. Wissanu admitted breaking into Itsaree's house and stealing her belongings, while Narate sold the stolen goods and split the money with Wissanu. The pair accumulated roughly 20,000 baht from their illegal activities. They confessed to spending most of the stolen cash on parties, drugs, and even hiring sex workers. The police were able to recover Itsaree's stolen items, which included gold and diamond accessories along with luxury watches, from various gold shops where Narate had sold them. All the stolen property was returned to the rightful owner. According to Channel 7, Wissanu was released from prison only 10 days before his latest arrest. Previously he had been caught stealing and was sentenced to two years in jail. Both Wissanu and Narate have been charged under Section 334 of the Criminal Law with stealing someone else's property. They could face up to three years in prison and a fine of up to 60,000 baht. The pair is also facing drug use charges, but the details of that punishment have not been disclosed yet. File photo for reference only -- 2024-08-01 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Bandits Arrested for Stealing Marijuana Plants to Start Their Own Business File photo for reference only Four thieves from Thailand were apprehended by the police for stealing marijuana plants from a farm in Nakhon Phanom, a province within the Isaan region. Their intention was to kickstart their own marijuana farming business. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334394-thai-bandits-arrested-for-stealing-marijuana-plants-to-start-their-own-business/