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The city of Pattaya has rolled out a new training program aimed at enhancing the document writing abilities of its employees. This program will focus on writing official letters and recording meeting minutes. This initiative, spearheaded by the Deputy Permanent Secretary of Pattaya City, Dr Siwat Boonkerd, aims to ensure that the city staff can create precise and effective official documents. This is expected to improve communication efficiency within the city administration. The Head of the Personnel Promotion and Development Department, Chatruedee Timkrajang, emphasized the importance of well-drafted official letters and meeting records in accomplishing the city's duties. She insisted that clear communication is an important aspect of municipal tasks and sharing vital information, especially with lower-level administrative units. The training initiative, conducted by the Staff Division and supervised by the Personnel Promotion and Development Department, has set several clear goals. First, the program seeks to improve participants' writing skills, guiding them to craft clear, accurate, and eloquent official letters. It will focus on the use of language to effectively convey the intended meaning. Secondly, participants will learn to become efficient in documenting meeting minutes. This skill will enable them to accurately record the proceedings of meetings, which is extremely important for smooth operations and informed decision-making. With this training, Pattaya aims to strengthen communication within its departments. The city expects the program to facilitate smoother processes and increase overall efficiency, thus allowing the city to provide better services to its residents. 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

Pattaya boosts safety with new training for 7-Eleven staff Photo courtesy of Pattaya News Pattaya Tourist Police, in a joint effort with government and private sector partners, recently organised an extensive training programme for guards and employees of 7-Eleven stores. This initiative is designed to bolster safety measures and enhance the overall experience for tourists visiting the popular convenience stores, particularly those situated around Walking Street. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333256-pattaya-boosts-safety-with-new-training-for-7-eleven-staff/

Pattaya Tourist Police, in a joint effort with government and private sector partners, recently organised an extensive training programme for guards and employees of 7-Eleven stores. This initiative is designed to bolster safety measures and enhance the overall experience for tourists visiting the popular convenience stores, particularly those situated around Walking Street. Participants in the training programme acquired vital skills in several key areas. These included mastering security strategies, responding efficiently to incidents, performing correct CPR procedures, and delivering top-notch hospitality. By equipping both security staff and 7-Eleven employees with these competencies, the project aims to mitigate incidents, boost tourist confidence, and uphold international safety standards. The training also emphasised de-escalation techniques for handling intoxicated or disruptive tourists, along with instructions on promptly contacting the police if such situations arise, reported Pattaya News. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya News 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

Chinese man robbed of 3 million baht by thieves in Chon Buri Photo via Channel 3 A Chinese man accused his Chinese girlfriend of being a decoy after three thieves broke into his home in Chon Buri and stole 3 million baht from him last night. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333255-chinese-man-robbed-of-3-million-baht-by-thieves-in-chon-buri/

A Chinese man accused his Chinese girlfriend of being a decoy after three thieves broke into his home in Chon Buri and stole 3 million baht from him last night. The Chinese victim, 43 year old Qian Peng Yi, called Nongprue Police Station officers to his home in Soi Lablae, Bang Lamung district, Chon Buri, after the theft of 3 million baht and other valuables at approximately 9pm, yesterday, July 17. Police reported that the incident occurred at a luxury two-storey home built on a 60 to 80-square-metre plot of land. Qian was waiting for the police outside his home, visibly shaken and frightened by the incident. He had wounds on his ankles and wrists where the thieves had tied him with cable ties. Objects were scattered across both floors, indicating the thieves’ search for valuables. Qian told police that he had been living in Thailand for almost two years and ran a business in the country. On the night of the incident, he heard his dog barking loudly and went downstairs to investigate. To his shock, he encountered three thieves in his home. One thief carried a gun while another carried a knife. The man with the gun forced Qian to lead him to his bedroom, while the other two thieves caught a Chinese woman, Peizhi Tu, who emerged from the bathroom and took her to the bedroom as well. Qian did not clarify the relationship between him and Peizhi. Channel 7 believes she is his girlfriend, while Channel 3 reported that Peishi was his cousin. Woman co-conspirator The thieves ordered Qian and Peizhi to lie face down on the bed and tied their arms and legs with cable ties. They then demanded 10 million baht in exchange for their freedom, urging Qian to transfer the money in cryptocurrency. The thieves used Qian’s mobile phone to contact his Malaysian friend, pretending to be him. They asked the friend to transfer cryptocurrency to Qian’s account but the friend was suspicious as he knew Qian did not use cryptocurrency. However, the thieves managed to transfer 3 million baht from Qian’s bank account to their own and stole other belongings, including a laptop, a smartphone, and two computers. The security camera system was damaged, so no footage was captured. Qian seized an opportunity to escape while the thieves were occupied with his valuables and hid outside the house. While hiding, he saw the thieves leaving the scene with Peizhi. Confused, Qian began to suspect Peizhi of being involved in the theft. He stated that Peizhi had only been living with him for five to six months before the incident. The Chon Buri Immigration Bureau tried to find Peizhi but discovered that she had left Thailand via Suvarnabhumi International Airport at 1.30pm, yesterday July 17. Officers are now working to identify the three thieves and any others involved in the crime. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 3 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

Ex military officer arrested for domestic violence near football field Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Police arrested a former military officer at a football field for domestic violence, following repeated incidents despite reconciliation attempts. The individual, who fled his duties and was dismissed from service, now faces legal action. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333254-ex-military-officer-arrested-for-domestic-violence-near-football-field/

Police arrested a former military officer at a football field for domestic violence, following repeated incidents despite reconciliation attempts. The individual, who fled his duties and was dismissed from service, now faces legal action. Police Major General Montree Teskun today, July 18, directed Police Colonel Phattharawut Onchuay and Police Captain Theerapong Khongkiao from Provincial Police Region 5 to apprehend 27 year old Ratthaphon (surname withheld) based on a warrant issued by the Juvenile and Family Court of Surat Thani Province. The warrant, numbered 11/2567 and dated May 29, was issued for criminal case 142/2567 on charges of domestic violence. Ratthaphon was arrested near a football field in Pak Phun, Mueang District, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province. Ratthaphon, a former military police officer, had a history of violent behaviour towards his family, which led his wife to seek a divorce. Despite an initial reconciliation attempt, Ratthaphon reverted to his abusive ways, prompting his ex-wife to file a complaint with Chaiya Police Station in Surat Thani Province. After realising he was being prosecuted, Ratthaphon fled the area and neglected his duties, which resulted in his dismissal from the military. The arrest team eventually tracked him to Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, where they managed to apprehend him, an official confirmed. “Ratthaphon admitted to the charges during the interrogation.” Following his confession, he was transferred to Chaiya Police Station for further legal proceedings. The initial incident traces back to Ratthaphon’s tenure as a military officer, where his repeated acts of violence against his own family became intolerable for his wife, leading to their separation. After their divorce, Ratthaphon sought to reconcile, claiming he would change his behaviour. However, shortly after reconciling, he resumed his violent actions, compelling his ex-wife to report him to the police, reported KhaoSod. The police, upon receiving the complaint, issued an arrest warrant. Ratthaphon, aware of the impending legal action, chose to abscond, leaving his position and responsibilities behind. His evasion led to his dismissal from the military, as he failed to report for duty. By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod 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

Box of joy: Thai woman rescues abandoned newborn in Rayong Photo via Amarin TV A Thai woman yesterday rescued an abandoned newborn baby boy found in a cardboard box on the roadside in the eastern province of Rayong. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333253-box-of-joy-thai-woman-rescues-abandoned-newborn-in-rayong/

A Thai woman yesterday rescued an abandoned newborn baby boy found in a cardboard box on the roadside in the eastern province of Rayong. The 33 year old woman, Wanida, reported the discovery to officers at Pluak Daeng Police Station. She explained that she noticed the abandoned baby while picking up her child from school. Wanida said her child found the box while playing by the roadside as they walked home from school. Her child then asked her to check on the baby. Channel 7 reported that the baby boy was wearing a nappy and wrapped in a pink towel. He was reportedly born no more than five hours before being discovered and was healthy and crying loudly in the box. Police coordinated with a rescue team and arrived at the scene together. The rescuers fed the infant boy baby formula before taking him to Pluak Daeng Hospital. Police are now reviewing security camera footage from near the scene to identify the mother who abandoned him. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Amarin TV 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

Thai king honoured for vital contribution to Covid-19 fight Image courtesy of Bangkok Post King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua demonstrated his generosity through substantial support for medical personnel battling the Covid-19 pandemic. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333252-thai-king-honoured-for-vital-contribution-to-covid-19-fight/

King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua demonstrated his generosity through substantial support for medical personnel battling the Covid-19 pandemic. To celebrate his 69th birthday on July 28, the king is being honoured for his vital contributions to medical science and public health, which have become crucial amidst the pandemic. The king’s efforts in enhancing medical science and public health, especially during the pandemic that has gripped the country since early 2020, have earned him profound respect. Since the initial outbreak of Covid in early 2020, the king has donated 122 million baht worth of mobile lab vehicles and medical equipment to hospitals and medical institutes nationwide. These donations, part of a project aimed at supplying medical equipment and respirators, strengthened the public health sector by enabling effective screening and testing in heavily affected areas. The king donated two mobile X-ray units, 200,000 reusable PPE items, 400,000 Silguard isolation gowns, and 50,000 Silguard coveralls. These PPE donations provided much-needed relief to frontline medical workers, who often faced shortages of protective gear while working long hours to save lives. In 2021, Their Majesties the King and Queen received a prototype of the Express Analysis Mobile Unit from the president of Chulalongkorn University Council. They then donated four additional units, which, along with the university’s unit, were handed to the public health permanent secretary for conducting Covid tests. These mobile units, paired with royally donated sample-collecting vehicles, completed the testing process within three hours, aiding mass testing in high-infection areas and effective tracing of infection clusters. On June 7, 2021, Their Majesties granted 16 more sample-collecting vehicles equipped with onboard IT and six biosafety units. These additions complemented the 20 vehicles previously donated, offering on-site testing that saved people trips to the hospital and limited infection spread. According to a news bulletin from the Bureau of the Royal Household (BRH), Their Majesties have been actively involved in the pandemic response since it was first detected in Thailand in early 2020. Their Majesties guided infection control measures and moral support to public health workers. They acknowledged the hard work and exhaustion of medical personnel on the front lines. Their Majesties also supported the economy by purchasing farming products from all regions, providing an economic lifeline during the crisis, reported Bangkok Post. By Ryan Turner Image 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

Thailand Named 4th Most Beautiful Country Globally Photo: The Pattaya News Thailand has been rated the fourth most beautiful country globally in a survey conducted by usnews.com. The nation gained recognition for its breathtaking landscapes, historical sites, and the perfect blend of traditional and modern elements in its urban areas. In the "adventure" category of the US News 2023 Best Countries rankings, Thailand followed New Zealand, Greece, and Italy, bolstering its reputation as a top tourist attraction worldwide. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333185-thailand-named-4th-most-beautiful-country-globally/

Thailand has been rated the fourth most beautiful country globally in a survey conducted by usnews.com. The nation gained recognition for its breathtaking landscapes, historical sites, and the perfect blend of traditional and modern elements in its urban areas. In the "adventure" category of the US News 2023 Best Countries rankings, Thailand followed New Zealand, Greece, and Italy, bolstering its reputation as a top tourist attraction worldwide. Within the more extensive Best Countries rankings, Thailand secured the 29th position, evaluated on various elements like cultural influence, entrepreneurship, and quality of life. Switzerland, Canada, Sweden, Australia, and the United States were declared the leaders of this list. Recently, a local magazine named Bangkok as the leading city in the Asia-Pacific area. Furthermore, the islands of Phuket and Samui received high rankings compared to other island locations in the Asia-Pacific region. In another accomplishment, CEOWORLD magazine chose Thailand as the top country to visit in your lifetime for 2024, and Phuket's Maya Beach was listed among the top five beaches worldwide by BeachAtlas. Encouraged by these acknowledgements, the Thai government is doubling its efforts to promote tourism. It has set out plans to attract more foreign tourists in 2025. These plans include targeted campaigns to stimulate off-season travel and strategies to promote lesser-known provinces' tourism. The goal is to distribute the benefits of tourism evenly across the country, reported by The Pattaya News. Photo: The Pattaya News -- 2024-07-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Unidentified Foreigner Found Asleep on Pattaya Beach Dressed as Monk Photo: The Pattaya News Early this morning, an odd incident occurred on Pattaya Beach, Thailand. A foreign man, outfitted in monk's attire, was found asleep on the beach. Local residents and tourists spotted the unfamiliar man dozing on the beach around 03:40 AM on July 17, 2024. They promptly informed the Pattaya police. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333184-unidentified-foreigner-found-asleep-on-pattaya-beach-dressed-as-monk/

Early this morning, an odd incident occurred on Pattaya Beach, Thailand. A foreign man, outfitted in monk's attire, was found asleep on the beach. Local residents and tourists spotted the unfamiliar man dozing on the beach around 03:40 AM on July 17, 2024. They promptly informed the Pattaya police. The police arrived promptly at the scene and found the foreign man sleeping on a monk's robe. He was also dressed in a white shirt and white trousers. However, when questioned, the man wasn't able to answer coherently. After searching his monk's bag, the police found nothing unlawful. The man was then brought to the Pattaya Police Station for further investigation. Initial findings indicated that the man possessed no travel documents to Thailand or any evidence of being a formally ordained monk linked to any temple. The identity of the man remains a mystery at the time of the press release because he is still largely unable to articulate a clear response. Local resident, 46-year-old Mr. Preecha Intarasorn, reported spotting the foreign man, dressed like a monk, walking from Walking Street. The man then headed down to the beach, changed into white attire, placed a monk's robe on the beach, and lay down. Mr. Preecha expressed concern that the man was not a genuine monk. He reported the incident to the police to protect Buddhism's integrity, mainly because numerous foreign tourists witnessed the event. He appealed to the police for stringent action, reported by The Pattaya News. Photo: The Pattaya News -- 2024-07-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Fishing boat capsizes in heavy storm off Trang, woman loses her life File photo for reference only During a devastating storm, a fishing boat was overturned off the Trang coast, leading to the tragic death of a woman, while her husband survived. The incident took place in the early hours of July 17, when the couple was trying to come back to land amid the rough seas. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333183-fishing-boat-capsizes-in-heavy-storm-off-trang-woman-loses-her-life/

During a devastating storm, a fishing boat was overturned off the Trang coast, leading to the tragic death of a woman, while her husband survived. The incident took place in the early hours of July 17, when the couple was trying to come back to land amid the rough seas. Reports of a flipped fishing boat south of Koh Muk, near Koh Libong, reached the Trang Marine Department at 4am. The boat was owned by a local fishing couple, Monsit, 55, and Rortiya, 53. Local fishermen were the first to start a rescue mission after the accident. While Monsit was located safely, Rortiya was unaccounted for. Emergency teams – made up of personnel from the Hat Chao Mai National Park, Kantang Marine Police, Central Investigation Police, and staff from Koh Libong and Bang Sak – joined the search. Rortiya's body was found floating near Koh Libong by 10:10am. She was still wearing her life jacket. After the body was recovered, the appropriate officials were informed to organize an autopsy and make funeral arrangements. Efforts were also made to retrieve the submerged boat and tow it back to the coast. An investigation to find the reason behind the boat overturning is underway. Early assessments imply that the heavy rainfall and rough seas during the storm might have played a part in the mishap. The couple had earlier sailed out to set crab traps. With the storm escalating, they tried to get back to land but were beaten by the adverse weather, resulting in the boat capsizing. File photo for reference only -- 2024-07-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Mae Hong Son cracks down on inappropriate tourist behaviour Image courtesy of Pattaya Mail Mae Hong Son Governor Chucheep Pongchai issued an urgent directive to tighten regulations and enhance supervision of tourism activities in the Pai district, following reports of inappropriate behaviour by some foreign tourists during river tubing on the Pai River. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333182-mae-hong-son-cracks-down-on-inappropriate-tourist-behaviour/

Mae Hong Son Governor Chucheep Pongchai issued an urgent directive to tighten regulations and enhance supervision of tourism activities in the Pai district, following reports of inappropriate behaviour by some foreign tourists during river tubing on the Pai River. The matter came to the fore when a local resort owner in Pai raised concerns about the current state of tubing activities along the Pai River. The complaints revealed that alcohol and beer were being illicitly sold to tourists, disguised in plastic water bottles to evade detection. Tourists, after finishing their tubing activities, were reportedly seen wandering around town in their swimwear, with some men donning only swim briefs and women clad in two-piece swimsuits or bikinis. This behaviour has been deemed disrespectful to local culture. Additionally, there have been instances of tourists sneaking into resort areas for sexual activities, leading to police reports and widespread online criticism. In response, Chucheep directed relevant agencies and business operators to promptly implement measures to regulate tourism in Pai, particularly focusing on tubing activities involving foreign tourists. The objective is to preserve the town’s reputation as a desirable tourist destination. The district chief of Pai initially reported the inappropriate behaviour linked to tubing activities. Consequently, district authorities and police will convene with business operators to establish cooperative measures. These will include a ban on alcoholic beverages during tubing activities, regular inspections, and ensuring tourists dress modestly, wear life jackets, and respect local cultural norms. While most tourists have been cooperative, there have been a few exceptions. The Deputy Governor of Mae Hong Son is scheduled to visit the Pai district to attend a meeting with relevant agencies to further organise and solidify tourism measures. Mae Hong Son has emerged as a popular destination for both Thai and international tourists alike. From the beginning of the year until July, nearly 40,000 tourists have visited. River tubing on the Pai River is seen as a significant attraction for foreign tourists, reported Pattaya Mail. By Ryan Turner Image courtesy of Pattaya Mail Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Bangkok’s Wat Pho climbs Asia’s top travel list Photo courtesy of The Nation Bangkok’s Wat Phra Chetuphon, famously known as Wat Pho, clinched a coveted spot among TripAdvisor’s 25 most popular destinations in Asia for 2024. This year, the Temple of the Reclining Buddha proudly stands at 9th place, a testament to its enduring appeal since it first made the list in 2020. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333180-bangkok’s-wat-pho-climbs-asia’s-top-travel-list/

Bangkok’s Wat Phra Chetuphon, famously known as Wat Pho, clinched a coveted spot among TripAdvisor’s 25 most popular destinations in Asia for 2024. This year, the Temple of the Reclining Buddha proudly stands at 9th place, a testament to its enduring appeal since it first made the list in 2020. TripAdvisor’s glowing recommendation highlights the tranquil allure of Wat Pho, urging visitors to wander through the serene grounds, and take in the stunning architecture adorned with intricate decorations and golden spires. The travel agency also encourages guests to marvel at the magnificent Buddha statues and appreciate the rich cultural significance of this popular destination. For those seeking a deeper experience, TripAdvisor suggests enrolling in a traditional Thai massage course within the temple’s peaceful confines. Other Thai landmarks also shone brightly in this year’s rankings. Wat Arun, known as the Temple of Dawn, secured the 11th spot, the Big Buddha in Phuket was placed at 13th, and Bangkok’s Grand Palace rounded out the list at 25th. The 2024 ranking was drawn from an impressive pool of eight million destinations. These sites were celebrated for their exceptional reviews and opinions gathered over 12 months by the TripAdvisor community, reported The Nation. Here’s the full list of Asia’s top tourist destinations for this year: Gardens by the Bay, Singapore Angkor Wat, Cambodia Mutianyu Great Wall, China Taj Mahal, India Fushimi Inari-Taisha Shrine, Japan Royal Selangor Visitor Centre, Malaysia Hoi An Ancient Town, Vietnam Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, Indonesia Wat Phra Chetuphon, Thailand War Remnants Museum, Vietnam Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun), Thailand Petronas Twin Towers, Malaysia Big Buddha Phuket, Thailand Cu Chi Tunnels, Vietnam Museum PASIFIKA, Indonesia Singapore Botanic Gardens Cloud Forest, Singapore Kinkakuji Temple, Japan Ta Prohm, Cambodia Bayon Temple, Cambodia Qutub Minar, India Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, Cambodia MinNature Malaysia National Orchid Garden, Singapore The Grand Palace, Thailand By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Beach horror: Lower body find sends shockwaves in central Thailand Photo via Channel 8 A hotel employee yesterday discovered the lower part of a human body on Laem Sadet Beach in the central province of Chanthaburi. Police are struggling to identify the deceased due to the missing upper half, including the head. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333179-beach-horror-lower-body-find-sends-shockwaves-in-central-thailand/

A hotel employee yesterday discovered the lower part of a human body on Laem Sadet Beach in the central province of Chanthaburi. Police are struggling to identify the deceased due to the missing upper half, including the head. The 39 year old hotel worker, whose name has not been disclosed, told Matichon that he found the human remains at approximately 6pm yesterday, July 16. He initially mistook the body for a sack of wooden sticks but upon closer inspection, he realised it was a human body. The worker asked a colleague to confirm his suspicion before reporting the discovery to other hotel staff and officers at Thamai Police Station. Police arrived at the scene along with the Sawang Katanyu Dhammasathan Rescue Foundation and Thamai Hospital professionals. The lower half of the body, from the lower ribcage to the thighs, was reportedly lying on top of a bamboo log. The arms, head, and legs were missing, and there was little flesh remaining on the body. Officers searched the area but could not find the missing body parts. The lower half was taken to Prapokklao Hospital for an autopsy to determine the identity of the deceased and to examine any visible wounds that could shed light on the cause of death and other details of the case. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 8 Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Myanmar Civil War Increases Sea Trade Activity at Thailand’s Ranong Port File photo for reference only Due to the civil war in Myanmar, goods are now being shipped via maritime routes, which has increased activity at Ranong Port in Thailand. This could be a significant benefit to the government's Land Bridge project. Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri explained that conflict in Myanmar has disrupted overland trade, pushing business owners to ship their goods from Ranong Port instead of land routes through Tak’s Mae Sot district. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333178-myanmar-civil-war-increases-sea-trade-activity-at-thailand’s-ranong-port/

Due to the civil war in Myanmar, goods are now being shipped via maritime routes, which has increased activity at Ranong Port in Thailand. This could be a significant benefit to the government's Land Bridge project. Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri explained that conflict in Myanmar has disrupted overland trade, pushing business owners to ship their goods from Ranong Port instead of land routes through Tak’s Mae Sot district. Manaporn directed the Port Authority of Thailand (PAT) to make sure that Ranong Port’s infrastructure and staff were well-equipped for receiving the influx of goods from Myanmar. He said that the current situation presents an opportunity to revive maritime trade routes. “This is a chance to revitalize overland trade routes via Thailand’s southern seas… This will also boost the government’s Land Bridge Project which involves constructing a bridge linking the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea." The aim of this project is to enhance the Southern Economic Corridor (SEC), linking it with the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), to generate extra economic value for Thailand. The Deputy Transport Minister emphasized that the Land Bridge project would bolster the region's farming, cash crops, livestock, and local markets. This could potentially increase the region’s GDP from 2% to 10% by drawing in private investment. He also suggested that the project could lead to significant economic growth in the region through the creation of factories and industrial estates, increasing local employment opportunities. Manaporn expressed hope that Thailand could become a global center for sea logistics and cargo distribution. The PAT’s Director-General, Kriangkrai Chaisiriwongsuk, revealed that Ranong Port recently welcomed its first cargo ships from Myanmar on July 5 and 8, originating from Yangon. The first ship carried 39 containers of imported goods and went back with 56 containers of Thai exports. The second ship arrived with 56 containers and left with 35. Kriangkrai stated that the goods imported to Thailand from these shipments included agricultural produce. The ships returned with electrical equipment and construction materials. These changes indicate a considerable shift in the region's trade, with Ranong Port becoming a significant facilitator in the new maritime trade path between Thailand and Myanmar. The increase in port activity both supports the Thai government's wider economic objectives and underscores the strategic significance of maritime infrastructure in regional trade and economic development. File photo for reference only -- 2024-07-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe