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The House of Representatives approved a supplementary bill to increase the budget for the current fiscal year by 122 billion baht, in a vote held late yesterday. This additional funding aims to partially finance the government’s digital wallet handout scheme. A total of 297 MPs voted in favour of the bill, while 164 opposed it, with no abstentions recorded. Among the absentees were 17 members of the government coalition, including Pheu Thai‘s Sutin Klungsang, Kriang Kantinan, and Chalerm Ubumrung; Palang Pracharath Party’s Prawit Wongsuwon and Thamanat Prompow; and Suchart Chomklin from the United Thai Nation Party. Additionally, five MPs from the opposition Move Forward Party (MFP), including its chief adviser Pita Limjaroenrat, and 10 MPs from the Democrat Party did not participate in the vote. Opposition parties expressed their intent to vote against the bill in the next hearing, citing concerns that it violates the State Fiscal and Financial Discipline Act. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin addressed the House before the vote, emphasising the necessity of the 122-billion-baht budget increase to stimulate the economy. He highlighted that the additional funds are essential to boost local economic activities, sustain consumption levels, and create new business opportunities. “The current economic situation and budget constraints for the 2024 fiscal year necessitated this budget increase to expedite the launch of the digital wallet handout programme.” The 62 year old PM detailed that 10 billion baht would come from tax collection, with the remaining amount covered by loans. This increase is expected to raise investment spending in the current fiscal budget from 17.1% to 22.4%. The Thai premier assured that the spending plan aligns with the State Fiscal and Financial Discipline Act, reported Bangkok Post. Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul confirmed that Bhumjaithai MPs were among the 297 lawmakers who supported the bill. “The bill received majority support in the House. The parties in the coalition government share a collective responsibility, so they have to support each other. In principle, coalition parties have to back any government policy that benefits the people.” By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Full story: The Thaiger 2024-07-19 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

4th female Supreme Court president in Thai history to be appointed Photo courtesy of Thai PBS World Chanakarn Theeravechpolkul is set to become the 4th female president of Thailand’s Supreme Court on October 1. This historic appointment marks a dramatic reversal in the traditionally male-dominated judiciary. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333357-4th-female-supreme-court-president-in-thai-history-to-be-appointed/

Chanakarn Theeravechpolkul is set to become the 4th female president of Thailand’s Supreme Court on October 1. This historic appointment marks a dramatic reversal in the traditionally male-dominated judiciary. On July 8, the Judicial Commission unanimously voted to appoint Chanakarn as the 50th chief of the country’s top court. She will succeed Anocha Chevitsophon, the third woman to hold the position, whose term ends on September 30. Currently serving as the president of the Supreme Court’s Juvenile and Family Division, Chanakarn’s impressive career includes roles such as vice president of the Court of Appeal’s Region 9, deputy chief justice of the Court of Appeal for Specialised Cases, and deputy chief justice of the Bangkok South Civil Court. She began her journey at the Phitsanulok Provincial Court and ascended through various key judicial positions. Chanakarn holds a bachelor’s degree in law from Thammasat University and has passed the Thai bar exam. Since the judiciary’s establishment in 1882, only three women have previously held the Supreme Court’s highest office: Methinee Chalothorn, Piyakul Boonperm, and Anocha Chevitsophon. Methinee, the trailblazer, became the first female president in 2020, followed by Piyakul in 2021, and Anocha in 2023. Methinee, with a master’s degree in justice administration from Thammasat University, shattered a century-old tradition of male leadership. Piyakul, a distinguished graduate of Ramkhamhaeng University, continued the legacy, and Anocha, a Chulalongkorn University alumna, cemented the trend. The Supreme Court president, the head of Thailand’s judiciary, holds ultimate authority over the nation’s courts. Established in 1885, the Supreme Court, or Dika, carries a historical connection with the monarchy, signifying the pursuit of the royal prerogative to alleviate complainants’ hardships, reported Thai PBS World. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Thai PBS World Full story: The Thaiger 2024-07-19 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Ex-official kills sub-district head in a Phitsanulok murder-suicide Image courtesy of KhaoSod A tragic incident unfolded during a local celebration as an ex-assistant village headman fatally shot a female sub-district head before taking his own life at a fruit market in Phitsanulok province. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333356-ex-official-kills-sub-district-head-in-a-phitsanulok-murder-suicide/

A tragic incident unfolded during a local celebration as an ex-assistant village headman fatally shot a female sub-district head before taking his own life at a fruit market in Phitsanulok province. Police officer Surin Takrudphet reported that around 9.57pm yesterday, July 18, a distress call was received about a shooting at a fruit market centre in Wang Thong district, where the event was held. Police, accompanied by medical personnel from Wang Thong Hospital and rescue units, arrived at the scene to find the body of 42 year old Kanit, who previously served as an assistant village headman. He was found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the left temple, holding a .38 calibre weapon. The incident occurred during a welcoming party for newly appointed local officials, attended by several village heads and their assistants. At approximately 9.50pm, four gunshots rang out near the parking area adjacent to the event. The sub-district head, 40 year old Wanaporn was found with gunshot wounds to her abdomen and leg. Relatives at the event rushed her to Bangkok Phitsanulok Hospital for emergency treatment. Witnesses at the party, comprising mainly of local administrative officials, were unable to explain the motive behind the altercation between Wanaporn and Kanit. Kanit’s body was transported to Buddhachinaraj Hospital in Phitsanulok for a formal autopsy as part of the ongoing investigation. The medical team and forensic experts will conduct a detailed examination to confirm the cause of death and gather any additional evidence, reported KhaoSod. By Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Full story: The Thaiger 2024-07-19 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Surge in rabies cases among livestock including cows in Northeast Thailand raises alarms Electron miscroscope image of rabies virus | Photo by Norden taken from Wikimedia Thailand’s Department of Disease Control (DDC) has issued an urgent warning to the public regarding a rise in rabies cases, particularly among cattle in the Northeast region. Health authorities are emphasising the critical need for vigilance and precautionary measures as they monitor the situation closely. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333355-surge-in-rabies-cases-among-livestock-including-cows-in-northeast-thailand-raises-alarms/

Thailand’s Department of Disease Control (DDC) has issued an urgent warning to the public regarding a rise in rabies cases, particularly among cattle in the Northeast region. Health authorities are emphasising the critical need for vigilance and precautionary measures as they monitor the situation closely. Health authorities have also issued strict warnings that locals should not butcher and consume the meat of infected livestock. Dr Thongchai Keeratihatthayakorn, Director-General of the DDC, highlighted that rabies cases have been detected in various mammals, including dogs, cows, buffalo, and cats. As of July 9, 2024, 182 out of 3,100 animal samples tested positive for rabies, with the highest number of infections found in dogs, followed by ruminants such as cows and buffaloes. Rabies in cattle is particularly concerning because of the potential for humans to contract the virus through contact with infected animals. The DDC strongly advises against touching, dissecting, or consuming meat from animals suspected of having rabies. The virus can be transmitted through bites, scratches, or contact with saliva entering the eyes, mouth, or open wounds. Dr Thongchai emphasised the gravity of the disease, stating, “Rabies is severe. Once symptoms appear, almost everyone has a chance of dying. It is imperative to seek medical attention immediately after any potential exposure to the virus.” Recognising rabies symptoms Dr Apichart Wachiraphan, Deputy Director-General of the DDC, outlined the symptoms of rabies, which include loss of appetite, sore throat, aches, fever, fatigue, numbness, pain, tingling, or severe itching at the site of the bite. As the disease progresses, symptoms may include restlessness, sensitivity to loud sounds, delirium, photophobia (fear of light), hydrophobia (fear of water), difficulty swallowing, chest tightness, difficulty breathing, convulsions, paralysis, and ultimately, death. Preventive measures for pet owners The DDC is urging pet owners to ensure their animals are vaccinated against rabies. Pets should receive their first rabies vaccination at 2-3 months old and follow up with annual booster shots. If an animal displays any signs of rabies such as behavioural changes, aggression, staggering, drooling, a hanging tongue, crossed eyes, or sudden death owners should immediately report to livestock officials or community leaders. These symptoms warrant immediate attention to prevent the spread of the virus to humans. The vital role of vaccination and immediate action Rabies is preventable through vaccination. After potential exposure, washing the wound thoroughly with soap and water, applying povidone-iodine, and seeking medical attention promptly can significantly reduce the risk of infection. A complete vaccination regimen following exposure is crucial for protection against the virus. Dr Thongchai reiterated the importance of these steps, noting, “Getting vaccinated against rabies is the only way to prevent infection and death. It is vital to follow through with the full course of vaccinations as prescribed by a healthcare professional.” Public participation in rabies control The public can play a significant role in controlling rabies by ensuring pets are vaccinated and not abandoning them, which increases the population of stray animals that can spread the virus. Community involvement in reporting suspicious animal behaviour and adhering to vaccination protocols can greatly aid in managing and reducing rabies cases in Northeast Thailand. By Dr. Nikhil Prasad Electron miscroscope image of rabies virus | Photo by Norden taken from Wikimedia Full story: The Thaiger 2024-07-19 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Burglar caught and restrained by home-owner and neighbors File photo for reference only A burglar, who intended to finance his drug habit, was arrested and bound to a pole after a failed robbery at a soldier's home. This incident occurred within the Ban Muang Samakkhi community in Udon Thani. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333354-burglar-caught-and-restrained-by-home-owner-and-neighbors/

A burglar, who intended to finance his drug habit, was arrested and bound to a pole after a failed robbery at a soldier's home. This incident occurred within the Ban Muang Samakkhi community in Udon Thani. Yesterday, on July 18, around 3pm, Police Lieutenant Sata Porn Sawatdee got information about a home invasion in Ban Muang Samakkhi. The homeowner and local residents managed to catch and hold the suspect until the police came. Upon arriving at the crime scene, they found a 29-year-old Sergeant Udom Thongthip from the 13th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Battalion, and 18-year-old Theppitak Naprom, holding the suspect. The latter was identified as 42-year-old Manop Lakhonsi. Manop was tied to a pole outside the house after he resisted arrest. His erratic actions also hinted at possible methamphetamine use. Homeowner Udom said that he caught Manop going through his belongings after scaling the fence. Udom highlighted that he saw the suspect trying to escape when he got back from his shift, following a call from his brother-in-law. Even though Manop resisted, Udom, his brother-in-law and neighbors were able to control him and tie him to a pole, as they waited for law enforcement. Upon police arrival, a drug test was administered on Manop. The results, indicated by a purple urine sample, showed signs of methamphetamine use. Under the influence, Manop admitted that he makes a living by collecting and selling scraps to purchase methamphetamine and marijuana. On his good days, he uses his increased profits from selling scraps to buy food. He agreed that the drugs made him feel lively and content, leading him to work more extensively without tiring. Though he accepted the theft, he claimed it was his first offense. The local police transported Manop to Udon Thani Police Station, where they are further investigating the matter. File photo for reference only -- 2024-07-19 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Teen Dies Making Homemade Bomb in Isaan File photo for reference only A 16-year-old Thai boy died while attempting to construct a homemade bomb in his friend's house in the Surin province of Isaan. The teenager, known only as A, was discovered dead around 11:40 am on Tuesday, July 16, outside his friend's house in the Khwao Sinrin district. Police from Khwao Sinrin were summoned to investigate the reason for the death. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333353-thai-teen-dies-making-homemade-bomb-in-isaan/

A 16-year-old Thai boy died while attempting to construct a homemade bomb in his friend's house in the Surin province of Isaan. The teenager, known only as A, was discovered dead around 11:40 am on Tuesday, July 16, outside his friend's house in the Khwao Sinrin district. Police from Khwao Sinrin were summoned to investigate the reason for the death. In a report to Channel 3, the police disclosed that A, dressed in his school uniform, had a significant injury to his mouth that resulted in his tongue being severed. He was found lying in a pool of blood, with fragments of flesh and teeth close to his body. Remnants of a homemade ping pong bomb, including scraps of nails, were also discovered at the incident location. This led investigators to believe that A died as a result of a malfunctioning device he was building. According to A's friend, he had come to his house to pick him up before visiting another friend. He asked A to wait as he used the bathroom and heard an explosion outside shortly after. Coming out of the bathroom, he discovered his friend dead. Shocked and uncertain about what to do, the friend called his grandmother, 67-year-old Rabiab Mumthong, to the scene. Rabiab expressed her shock to both the police and media, explaining how she was stunned by the horrific scene. She said it was unlike anything she had ever seen and that all she could do was ask her neighbours for help. The friend mentioned that A had a fascination with constructing homemade bombs and testing them in quiet, far-off locations that were not close to residential areas. A had reportedly made several homemade bombs in the past. Therafter, A's body was taken to the hospital for an autopsy to officially determine the cause of death. The police have advised parents to be vigilant and monitor their children's activities, cautioning that they can indeed engage in dangerous activities without their knowledge or supervision. File photo for reference only -- 2024-07-19 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Man's Strange Behavior with Cows Linked to Marijuana Use File photo for reference only A Thai woman reached out to the police concerned about her son's eccentric behavior following his use of marijuana, as she caught him talking to a cow. The son seemed to be hallucinating and was seen interacting with a cow and its newborn calf. Officers from the Mueang Chai Nat Police Station reacted promptly to assess the situation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333351-thai-mans-strange-behavior-with-cows-linked-to-marijuana-use/

A Thai woman contacted the police concerned about her son's eccentric behavior following his use of marijuana, as she caught him talking to a cow. The son seemed to be hallucinating and was seen interacting with a cow and its newborn calf. Officers from the Mueang Chai Nat Police Station reacted promptly to assess the situation. The law enforcers received a complaint about a man causing commotion at a house in Village 4, Khao Tha Phra Subdistrict, Mueang Chai Nat District. Acting on the report, they found the 28-year-old Thai man, Bank, standing topless and murmuring to a newly born calf. Despite his unusual behavior, Bank did not seem violent. When questioned about drug use, Bank denied using methamphetamine but confessed to consuming marijuana. The police noticed that while he responded to their questions, Bank kept talking to the calf. Since Bank didn't pose any direct threat, his family was advised to take care of him and call the police if his behavior turned aggressive. The mother explained that her son's hallucination started with the legalization of marijuana in the country. She showed concern over his strange activities, even though he wasn't harmful. Part of Bank's daily tasks was to look after the family's cattle, contributing to their earnings. Her expressive words were, “Once marijuana was made legal, my son started hallucinating. He often talks to himself and roams around with a knife. He yells at unseen people regularly.” Recently, Bank was seen guarding a newborn calf, staying close to it and talking to it which alarmed the neighbors and prompted a police call. She mentioned that Bank's hallucination was unpredictable. Some days he carried out his duties without issue, but his sudden outbursts and chats with himself were increasing, becoming a source of concern for those around him. The police assured them prompt action if Bank's condition worsened, advising him to get medical help if the hallucination continued. File photo for reference only -- 2024-07-19 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Man in Pathum Thani Kills Neighbor Over Dog Barking Dispute File photo for reference only A man has admitted to the ruthless killing of his school van driver neighbor in Pathum Thani, the motive being an ongoing row over a dog. The accused declined to demonstrate the crime scene, citing fears of revenge from the victim's family. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333281-man-in-pathum-thani-kills-neighbor-over-dog-barking-dispute/

A man has admitted to the ruthless killing of his school van driver neighbor in Pathum Thani, the motive being an ongoing row over a dog. The accused declined to demonstrate the crime scene, citing fears of revenge from the victim's family. In Lam Luk Ka, Pathum Thani, a 61-year-old school van driver, Wongduean, was found nearly beheaded, having suffered a brutal knife attack. The offence took place near a residence by the Lam Luk Ka Canal in Bueng Kham Phroi. The assailant was identified as 58-year-old Panya. The local Lam Luk Ka police, on July 18, disclosed that following the crime, they suspected the culprit to have escaped to Chaiyaphum province. Based on solid proof linking him to the murder, an arrest warrant was issued. A joint effort by Lam Luk Ka and Chaiyaphum police departments led to Panya’s capture. During his preliminary interrogation, Panya confessed to the murder. The animosity originated from a long-drawn dispute between the closely-situated households over Panya’s dog barking at Wongduean every time he passed. Panya took Wongduean's habitual cursing at his dog as a veiled insult. The disagreement simmered over time, with a face-to-face confrontation breaking out on the ill-fated day. The deadly incident unfolded when Wongduean passed Panya’s house, sparking a heated verbal spat. Wongduean returned home but the argument had infuriated Panya. Infuriated, Panya confronted Wongduean at his house, rekindling their fight. In a rage, Panya swung a machete at Wongduean multiple times after he fell into a water channel beneath a tree. Following the assault, Panya changed his clothes back home and fled. The police have officially charged Panya for intentional murder. He has refused to partake in a crime reenactment over concerns of possible retaliation from Wongduean's family. File photo for reference only -- 2024-07-18 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

One Million Prawns Released into Thai River for Conservation Efforts File photo for reference only In an effort to support aquatic life and maintain a balanced ecosystem, Samut Sakhon made waves by setting one million black tiger prawns free into the Tha Chin River. The event, led by the Governor Phon Damthornom of Samut Sakhon, took place at 11am on July 17 with local officials, public servants, and residents on hand. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333280-one-million-prawns-released-into-thai-river-for-conservation-efforts/

In an effort to support aquatic life and maintain a balanced ecosystem, Samut Sakhon made waves by setting one million black tiger prawns free into the Tha Chin River. The event, led by the Governor Phon Damthornom of Samut Sakhon, took place at 11am on July 17 with local officials, public servants, and residents on hand. This ceremony was not only an ecological effort but also a royal tribute, celebrating King Maha Vajiralongkorn’s 72nd birthday, reflecting six complete life cycles. The release took place at Wat Srisuttharam, Bang Ya Phraek, Samut Sakhon, attracting government officials, private organizations, and community members all keen on improving the river's health. Acknowledging the event's significance, Governor Phon Damthornom talked about its dual purpose - to honor the King while simultaneously protecting the natural resources. He encouraged the initiative to increase aquatic creatures in the Tha Chin River, emphasizing its importance for boosting the river’s biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance, thus ensuring a sustainable ecosystem for upcoming generations. The introduction of a million black tiger prawns, known for their quick growth and adaptability, is expected to significantly affect the local water environment positively. With their vital role in the food chain and the larger river ecology, these prawns will help enhance the natural habitat, benefiting local fishers and the wider community at large. File photo for reference only -- 2024-07-18 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NBTC declines to use special fund for Olympics broadcast rights Image courtesy of Olympics.com In a decisive 7 to 0 vote yesterday, July 17, the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) resolved not to allocate 435 million baht from its Broadcasting and Telecommunications Research and Development Fund for Public Interest to sponsor the broadcasting rights for the 2024 Olympics and Paralympic Games. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333279-nbtc-declines-to-use-special-fund-for-olympics-broadcast-rights/#comment-19075053

In a decisive 7 to 0 vote yesterday, July 17, the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) resolved not to allocate 435 million baht from its Broadcasting and Telecommunications Research and Development Fund for Public Interest to sponsor the broadcasting rights for the 2024 Olympics and Paralympic Games. The proposal had suggested that the NBTC utilise the fund to secure broadcasting rights for the events, scheduled to take place in Paris, France, from July 26 to August 11, and August 28 to September 8, respectively. The NBTC board cited potential legal issues under the Must Have, Must Carry rules, which require free TV broadcasts of seven major sports competitions as a primary reason for their decision. The rules are intended to ensure public access to significant sporting events such as the FIFA World Cup, Olympic Games, Paralympic Games, SEA Games, Asian Games, Asian Para Games, and ASEAN Para Games. Additionally, the NBTC highlighted a private sector initiative wherein Plan B Ltd, in collaboration with four terrestrial TV stations (T Sports 7, CH 7 HD, 9 MCOT HD, and PPTV HD 36) has secured the broadcasting rights for the upcoming Olympics and Paralympic Games. The NBTC reiterated that their decision stems from a reluctance to interfere with the market mechanism. “This collaboration will provide people with more options for viewing the events. Therefore, the NBTC decided not to use its fund to sponsor the purchase of broadcasting rights, which could interfere with the market mechanism.” The board also emphasised fairness, noting that it would be inequitable for other TV operators if the NBTC used its fund, which was contributed to by all TV operators, to support only four operators, reported The Nation. “Moreover, the responsibility for providing free TV broadcasts of the Olympic and Paralympic Games falls under the Sports Authority of Thailand, which should use the National Sports Development Fund for this purpose.” By Ryan Turner Image courtesy of Olympics.com Full story: The Thaiger 2024-07-18 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Shocking hike: Thai industries spark concern over electricity rates Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand’s plan to hike electricity rates later this year could deter foreign direct investment, warned the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI). The alert followed the Energy Regulatory Commission’s (ERC) announcement on Friday, indicating an imminent rise in power bills for both businesses and households. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333278-shocking-hike-thai-industries-spark-concern-over-electricity-rates/

Thailand’s plan to hike electricity rates later this year could deter foreign direct investment, warned the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI). The alert followed the Energy Regulatory Commission’s (ERC) announcement on Friday, indicating an imminent rise in power bills for both businesses and households. The ERC has proposed three new power tariff options, featuring increases from 11% to 44% above the current rate of 4.18 baht per kilowatt-hour, which will remain in effect until the end of August. These adjustments stem from higher gas prices during the cool season and the need to repay debts to the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) and gas suppliers. The new rates, set to be implemented from September to December, will range from 4.65 to 6.01 baht per unit. The commission explained that EGAT and gas suppliers had previously helped the government keep tariffs low from September 2021 to April this year, leading to a 15 billion baht debt from gas purchases and a 98 billion baht loss for EGAT. Kriengkrai Thiennukul, FTI Chairman, stated that the 4.18-baht rate is already high. Foreigners who plan to invest in Thailand may need to think carefully. Thailand’s power tariff surpasses that of some neighbouring countries, including Vietnam, potentially making Vietnam a more attractive destination for foreign investors. This disparity could impact Thailand’s efforts to lure foreign firms, as rising electricity costs may elevate operating expenses. Entrepreneurs might consider relocating to countries like Vietnam, which not only offers lower electricity rates but also benefits from more free trade agreements than Thailand. Kriengkrai added that higher power bills could compel local manufacturers to increase product prices, making it challenging to compete with exporters of low-cost goods. “This may affect the state’s attempts to encourage foreign firms to invest in Thailand as electricity prices are set to increase, eventually driving up their operating costs.” The situation places Thailand in a precarious position as it attempts to stimulate its sluggish economy. The anticipated rise in electricity costs could have a ripple effect, impacting both domestic and international investment landscapes, reported Bangkok Post. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Full story: The Thaiger 2024-07-18 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya police crack down on unruly Middle Eastern tourists Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail In response to an avalanche of complaints from frustrated locals, Pattaya police have finally taken a stand against the unruly behaviour of Middle Eastern tourists in Soi Yensabai. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333276-pattaya-police-crack-down-on-unruly-middle-eastern-tourists/

In response to an avalanche of complaints from frustrated locals, Pattaya police have finally taken a stand against the unruly behaviour of Middle Eastern tourists in Soi Yensabai. Following numerous disturbances caused by these tourists riding motorcycles, honking horns, and revving engines, police have established checkpoints at strategic spots along the street. Police officers are now stationed at the entrance, middle, and end of Soi Yensabai, diligently checking documents for vehicles and individuals. The primary focus is on Middle Eastern troublemakers, but Thai nationals driving in the area aren’t exempt from scrutiny either. “We are cracking down on illegal activities. Our goal is to restore peace and order in this community.” The crackdown isn’t just about penalties. Police remind rental business owners to inform tourists about necessary documentation and safe driving practices. This educational outreach aims to prevent further disturbances to tourists and residents. Minor infractions are met with warnings, alongside a thorough explanation of proper road usage. The initiative is as much about educating offenders as it is about maintaining order. Locals are hopeful that these measures will bring much-needed relief from the chaos that has plagued their neighbourhood, reported Pattaya Mail. “It’s about time the police took action. We just want to live in peace.” By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Full story: The Thaiger 2024-07-18 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Elderly Stateless Residents in Chiang Rai Pass Away Awaiting Thai Citizenship File photo for reference only Numerous stateless senior citizens in Chiang Rai have unfortunately died before getting Thai citizenship, due to slow administrative processes. A teacher from Chiang Mai, Daeng, has insisted Thai Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul visit the area to see the situation in person. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333270-elderly-stateless-residents-in-chiang-rai-pass-away-awaiting-thai-citizenship/

Numerous stateless senior citizens in Chiang Rai have unfortunately died before getting Thai citizenship, due to slow administrative processes. A teacher from Chiang Mai, Daeng, has insisted Thai Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul visit the area to see the situation in person. Daeng, whose complete name is Tuenjai Deetes, alongside Pienporn Deetes, the Secretary-General of the Foundation for Community Development and Mountainous Areas (FACD), and other human rights officials, held a meeting in Mae Sai, Chiang Rai yesterday, July 17. Supported by the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (THPF), the event aimed to explore new ways to enhance the health of stateless elderly people. Over a hundred elderly people belonging to the Tai Lue community from various districts took part in the meeting. Tuenjai remarked that the forum gave the elderly a chance to voice their experiences about applying for Thai citizenship. Some have been waiting for their applications to be approved for as long as three months to four years. The aim of the meeting was to address ongoing issues since the launch of the citizenship project in 2012. The effort aims to support ethnic minorities and communities who have resided in Thailand for more than 40 years, have Thai descendants, and have made their lives in Thailand, but have not yet gained Thai citizenship. There are currently more than 110,000 stateless elderly individuals in Thailand, with around 16,000 having applied for citizenship. The FACD is working to help these individuals get citizenship, acknowledging their vulnerable state due to their extended stay in Thailand. As for progress, approximately 1,000 people in Chiang Rai alone are still in various stages of the process. Many applications have crossed the provincial level and are now awaiting approval from the Minister of Interior. Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has been invited to visit the location and meet these stateless individuals to better understand their situation. The lengthy nationality process has led to a significant number of elderly individuals dying while waiting for their applications to be approved. According to Tuenjai, the Thai government should develop a national plan to address the status of stateless individuals. With Thailand being a major receiver of refugees, clarification is needed for those who have been residing in the country for a long time but still are without citizenship. Amid ongoing violence in Myanmar and other migration issues, Tuenjai also suggests a review of nationality laws, such as those for Chinese nationals during King Rama V's reign. The aim is to simplify the process involving many organizations and establish a specific legal code for nationality issues. Aen Liuchai, President of the Tai Lue Association, pointed out that many elderly Tai Lue individuals have been waiting for their citizenship applications to be processed for years. The oldest participant at the forum was an 86-year-old. Applications of over 100 people from the Mae Sai district alone have crossed the provincial level and have been forwarded to the Ministry of Interior since 2017. Among the elderly who applied in 2017, 10 have since died. Many older people are eagerly tracking their application status, hoping to become Thai citizens. Lastly, an attendee stated, "We live here and want to be Thai citizens. We wish to die as Thai citizens. We are proud to be Thai. We have been waiting for 50 to 60 years. We have hope because we have homes, food, jobs, and families in Thailand.” File photo for reference only -- 2024-07-18 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe