snoop1130

A Pattaya rental room operator was left high and dry by a cunning Korean tourist. A 49 year old owner of a rental room on Soi Chaloem Phra Kiat 11, Pattaya 3 Road, shared his experience yesterday, August 1, to caution other rental operators. Arinthat provided CCTV footage showing the face of the elusive Korean man who swindled him. Arinthat recounted that the Korean tourist, 48 year old Hin Kyung Mo, rented a room on July 17, paying rent until July 21. After that, he stopped paying, claiming his wallet and passport were lost. He said he was waiting for friends to help him in three days, but when they didn’t show up, he claimed he couldn’t contact them. On July 31, the Korean man said he needed to visit the embassy for help with his passport and documents. Arinthat kindly called a taxi for him. However, the Korean man asked to stop at a convenience store for five minutes and then vanished, leaving the taxi waiting for over 30 minutes. This entire episode was caught on CCTV. “I feel hurt because, on July 21, he said he had no money for food, so I lent him 1,000 baht. During the long holiday, he borrowed another 3,000 baht, saying he would contact the embassy but was unsuccessful. Yesterday, he said he ran out of money and needed to go to the embassy again, so I gave him another 2,000 baht before he disappeared.” The landlord mentioned that he had previously helped other tourists, who always repaid him once they contacted their families. This time, however, was different. When he went to file a report at Pattaya City Police Station, the police refused to accept it, stating it didn’t constitute a legal offence as he had allowed the man to stay voluntarily, reported KhaoSod English. “I want to warn other rental operators to be cautious of scammers. We try to be kind to tourists but end up being treated like this.” By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod English 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 Army Offers Conscripts 10 Baht Meals Following Criticism File photo for reference only The Royal Thai Army (RTA) has introduced a meal plan costing just 10 baht per meal in response to social media criticism about the quality of conscripts' food in Bangkok. A viral video had shown disappointingly low-quality breakfasts, leading the conscript who posted it to call for improvements. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334508-thai-army-offers-conscripts-10-baht-meals-following-criticism/

The Royal Thai Army (RTA) has introduced a meal plan costing just 10 baht per meal in response to social media criticism about the quality of conscripts' food in Bangkok. A viral video had shown disappointingly low-quality breakfasts, leading the conscript who posted it to call for improvements. RTA spokesperson, Colonel Richa Suksuwan, confirmed that increased efforts will be put into improving both the variety of the menu and the way meals are delivered. This response comes after a video showed underwhelming meals of cucumber soup with egg and fried Chinese sausage which seemed to be mainly water. To ensure proper management, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has set up guidelines for deducting conscripts' meal charges from their allowances and salaries. This works out to about 2,100 baht per month or around 70 baht per day, which amounts to 23 baht per meal. Recent social media posts have pointed out the difference in meal costs between conscripts, who pay 70 baht per day, and officers at the RTA headquarters, who pay only 10 baht per meal for the same food. Meals usually consist of a variety of dishes, including soups, curries, stir-fries and a dessert. The menu for today featured Thai papaya salad, spicy pork soup, rice with two pieces of fried chicken, and pandan noodles in coconut milk for dessert. Visitors to the RTA headquarters can also enjoy these meals for a cost of 40 baht each. The cheap meal programme at RTA headquarters started under former RTA Commander General Wimon Wongwanich, who subsidized the meals to lessen the financial strain on military personnel. Despite increasing food costs, the RTA maintains this initiative by allocating necessary funds. File photo for reference only -- 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 Government Launches New Site to Streamline Criminal Record Checks File photo for reference only The Thai government has unveiled changes to make the process of checking criminal records easier and less complicated. They aim to make this service more convenient for the public. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334507-thai-government-launches-new-site-to-streamline-criminal-record-checks/

The Thai government has unveiled changes to make the process of checking criminal records easier and less complicated. They aim to make this service more convenient for the public. Deputy Government Spokesperson Kanika Aunjit announced on August 1st that the online criminal record check system has a new website address. The Criminal Records Division, which is under the Office of Forensic Science of the Royal Thai Police, changed the web address to www.crd.go.th from the older www.crd-check.com. The change is part of the 2022 Electronic Government Operations Act and the modified 1983 Prime Minister's Office Regulations on Office Correspondence from 2021. Shifting to a .go.th domain is intended to instill more faith in the service among the public. The website also provides other services like checking eligibility for the "Erase Records, Clear Crimes, Restore Life" program. This program is designed for people who were either cleared by the courts or were not charged by the police or prosecutors. For criminal record checks based on fingerprints, either individuals or companies need to provide an official letter for fingerprinting. This service is accessible at the main office in Bangkok and at various regional forensic science centers throughout the country. File photo for reference only -- 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

South Korean Tourist Dies While Snorkelling near Pattaya File photo for reference only A South Korean visitor tragically lost his life while snorkelling near Ta Waen Beach on Larn Island, close to Pattaya City in Thailand. The incident happened yesterday afternoon. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334506-south-korean-tourist-dies-while-snorkelling-near-pattaya/

A South Korean visitor tragically lost his life while snorkelling near Ta Waen Beach on Larn Island, close to Pattaya City in Thailand. The incident happened yesterday afternoon. The 37-year-old victim, Eik Yu-han, was on a snorkelling adventure with a fellow South Korean when the tragedy occurred. They had been in the sea for a considerable period. According to reports, his friend noticed Yu-han floating face-down in the water and swiftly swam to his rescue, pulling him to the shore and calling for help. Attempts were made to revive Yu-han, through cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. Despite the immediate attention, the unfortunate Eik Yu-han could not be revived. He was hurried to an emergency medical center on the island, where further attempts at CPR proved unsuccessful. The deceased's body has been transported to the Police General Hospital in Bangkok for an autopsy. File photo for reference only -- 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

Senior Citizen Dies in Car Following Scuffle File photo for reference only A heated argument between a 77-year-old company driver and a younger coworker at a business in Sai Noi district, Nonthaburi province, ended tragically when the older man, Prasert Donkaew, was found deceased in his car. His body was found in a white Toyota Hilux Revo parked at the site of his workplace. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334500-senior-citizen-dies-in-car-following-scuffle/

A heated argument between a 77-year-old company driver and a younger coworker at a business in Sai Noi district, Nonthaburi province, ended tragically when the older man, Prasert Donkaew, was found deceased in his car. His body was found in a white Toyota Hilux Revo parked at the site of his workplace. Earlier in the day, Prasert had a disagreement that turned violent with 35-year-old Amnat, a worker from the road marking department. The conflict reportedly began due to a near-miss accident caused by Prasert's driving, which eventually lead to Amnat hitting Prasert with a broomstick. Amnat confessed to police that he had hit Prasert with the broom, but insisted he had no intention to seriously injure him. During his statement, he cited their substantial age gap. Prasert remained in his car after the fight and was found unresponsive later in the evening when a company clerk tried summoning him for a pending task. The police were then called in to investigate the incident. Arthit Donkaew, Prasert's 41-year-old son, was distraught over his father's death and awaits autopsy results. He shared that his father was a company veteran, having worked there for over three decades in charge of paint delivery and traffic line marking. Following police investigation, Prasert's mortal remains were sent to the Institute of Forensic Science for a comprehensive autopsy to ascertain the exact cause of death. In the meantime, Amnat is under arrest and will face legal action for his role in the incident. File photo for reference only -- 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

Transwoman Arrested in Bangkok for Trafficking Teenage Girls File photo for reference only A Thai transwoman was apprehended at a hotel in Bangkok for sex trafficking two teenage girls, one aged 16 and the other 17. The Children and Women Protection Sub-Division officers uncovered online advertisements featuring the underage girls, leading them to pose as potential clients. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334498-transwoman-arrested-in-bangkok-for-trafficking-teenage-girls/

A Thai transwoman was apprehended at a hotel in Bangkok for sex trafficking two teenage girls, one aged 16 and the other 17. The Children and Women Protection Sub-Division officers uncovered online advertisements featuring the underage girls, leading them to pose as potential clients. The law enforcement officers contacted the 30-year-old transwoman, Samart, who had posted the adverts. An undercover officer arranged a hotel meet in the Charan Sanit Wong district of Bangkok, after negotiating to pay 4,500 baht for sexual services from the teens. Samart and the girls arrived at the hotel where the officers revealed their identities and arrested them. The teenage girls were considered victims and did not face legal consequences. The two charges against Samart are as follows: Section 6 of the Prevention and Suppression of Human Trafficking Act, which condemns profiting from prostitution involving individuals above 15 but below 18 years of age. This charge carries a penalty of six to 15 years in jail and a fine ranging from 600,000 to 1.5 million baht. Section 9 of the same Act, which prohibits encouraging or causing a person aged over 15 but under 18 to be involved in prostitution. This can result in a jail sentence of five to 15 years and a penalty of 100,000 to 300,000 baht. File photo for reference only -- 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

Man escapes mob justice in Phuket after suspected voyeurism incident - video File photo for reference only A Thai man, suspected of being a voyeur, narrowly escaped a public beating in Phuket. The man absconded abruptly from the scene, leaving behind his motorbike and items such as condoms, women’s underwear, a cucumber, and items associated with drug use. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334497-man-escapes-mob-justice-in-phuket-after-suspected-voyeurism-incident-video/

video screenshot A Thai man, suspected of being a voyeur, narrowly escaped a public beating in Phuket. The man absconded abruptly from the scene, leaving behind his motorbike and items such as condoms, women’s underwear, a cucumber, and items associated with drug use. An incident involving these articles was posted on social media by another Thai man in the Pa Klock sub-district, Thalang district of Phuket. The incident was said to occur around 10.45pm on Wednesday, July 31. The post warned locals about this man who was caught peeping into a woman’s bathroom. The woman called for help, and her mother enlisted the assistance of the poster and his friends who were outside the woman's house. A video of the confrontation between the suspect and the locals was shared in the post. In the shared video, demand was made by locals for the suspect to admit his intent, but he negated any wrong actions. He asserted that he was only searching for a restroom. However, his explanations appeared unconvincing to the crowd. An altercation occurred when a man punched the suspect, who then appealed for a chance to explain himself. While doing so, another man assaulted him causing him to run, leaving his motorcycle behind. Online reactions showed some people argued that regardless of the suspect's actions, he should not have been assaulted and should have been handed over to the police. The local who posted the original video defended his and his friend's actions, suggesting anyone else would have acted similarly in a similar circumstance involving a loved one. Police were later called to the scene to investigate the abandoned motorcycle and its contents. In addition to the aforementioned goods, police also found drug paraphernalia in a black bag. Investigations are ongoing, and despite efforts, the police have not yet found the suspect. No additional information regarding the investigation has been provided. File photo for reference only -- 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

Drug dealer arrested after urinating on police officer in Thailand File photo for reference only A police officer was the unexpected recipient of a urine stream while making a drug bust in central Thailand's Suphan Buri Province yesterday. The operator was nabbed with 1,000 tablets of a drug known as Yaba or methamphetamine. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334495-drug-dealer-arrested-after-urinating-on-police-officer-in-thailand/

A police officer was the unexpected recipient of a urine stream while making a drug bust in central Thailand's Suphan Buri Province yesterday. The operator was nabbed with 1,000 tablets of a drug known as Yaba or methamphetamine. Local residents had alerted the police about frequent drug transportations along Highway Number 33. After investigations, police found out that drugs were planned to be delivered in the early hours of August 1. The police then staged an ambush. Close to 2.20 am, a white BMW sedan carrying the registration number, กม 6767, pulled to the roadside. Two Thai men got out of the car and one started to urinate where officer Tat Sridutsadee was hiding. The officer revealed himself immediately after getting sprayed with urine and seized the man while others detained the second man near the BMW. The car was searched, and although nothing illegal was found on the men, a .38 gun and bullets were found in the car's storage compartment. A plastic bag containing 1,000 Yaba pills was also discovered under the vehicle. The suspects were identified as 39-year-old Boonphitak Sarawong, also known as Aun Pakdeang (Aun Red Lips), and another man only known as Bee, who is 29. Boonphitak confessed that he was being driven by Bee since he was unable to drive due to medical conditions. Previously arrested for drug offenses, Boonphitak revealed his nickname came about due to drug use that darkened his lips, causing him to use lipstick. He now faces charges including possession of Category 1 drugs for sale and possessing a gun without a license. Bee was released after testing negative for drugs and maintaining his non-involvement. File photo for reference only -- 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

Woman found dead by Chon Buri roadside after motorcycle crash Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A tragic discovery was made when the body of a young woman was found lifeless in the grass by the roadside next to a fallen motorcycle. Police are investigating the scene to determine the cause of the accident. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334494-woman-found-dead-by-chon-buri-roadside-after-motorcycle-crash/

A tragic discovery was made when the body of a young woman was found lifeless in the grass by the roadside next to a fallen motorcycle. Police are investigating the scene to determine the cause of the accident. Rueangsak Siributr, Deputy Inspector (Investigation) of Huai Yai Police Station, was alerted to a fatality along Road 2015, Ban Phu Thai, Moo 5, Khao Mai Kaew, Bang Lamung district, Chon Buri province at 1.06am today, August 2. He promptly arrived at the scene with rescue workers from Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Foundation, Pattaya. Upon arrival, police found a Honda Zoomer-X motorcycle with a Chon Buri registration, overturned at the roadside. Nearby, the lifeless body of a woman, estimated to be aged between 25 and 30, was discovered in the grass. The body lay in a pool of blood, with visible facial wounds and abrasions on various parts of her body. Initial investigations indicated that the motorcycle had lost control, veering off the road and colliding with a concrete barrier. A resident, 28 year old Jantakan, who was riding her motorcycle back home, recounted her encounter with the scene. She noticed a pickup truck slowing down to look at something but couldn’t see clearly due to the darkness in the area. “I stopped my motorcycle to check and saw the fallen bike and the body of the dead woman lying in the grass. I quickly notified the police.” Police are now working to piece together the events leading to the accident. The area where the body was found is notably dimly lit, which might have contributed to the incident. Police are examining the tyre marks and the surroundings for any clues that could shed light on the tragic event. The police are urging anyone who saw anything unusual around the time of the accident to come forward, 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

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