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A former Bangkok MP resigned from the ruling Pheu Thai Party following criticism for showing sympathy to a party opponent during a recent local election in Pathum Thani. Wan Ubumrung submitted his resignation at the Election Commission (EC) and announced it was effective immediately. Wan explained that his decision came after being summoned by the party to clarify his presence at the Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO) chairman election in Pathum Thani after the polls closed on June 30. Wan visited Police Lieutenant General Kamronwit Toopkrajang, a Khon Rak Pathum (Love Pathum) candidate and close friend of the Ubumrung family, to offer his condolences. Kamronwit, a former police commissioner, lost to Pheu Thai’s candidate, Charn Phuangphet, by less than 2,000 votes. This act of compassion towards an opponent did not sit well with the Pheu Thai leadership. Wan was called in to explain himself to party executives and leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra on July 9. Wan defended his actions, stating that meeting Kamronwit, who once had close ties to former premier Thaksin Shinawatra, was not inappropriate. Thaksin holds significant regard within the Pheu Thai Party. No effect “The meeting took place after the polls had closed, so it would not have affected the election result.” Initially, Wan had no intention of quitting the party when he attended the meeting with Pheu Thai executives. However, after the discussions, it became clear that the party was displeased with him, influencing Wan to leave. “It never crossed my mind what I did was so wrong, despite my being apologetic about the encounter… I can’t stay on now that the party executives are no longer happy with me.” Wan reflected that the party might not have considered him an asset anymore, especially after his loss in last year’s General Election in Bangkok’s Bang Bon constituency to the Move Forward Party (MFP). “I’m not the only Pheu Thai candidate in Bangkok who suffered a defeat. The party was beaten in all but one of 33 constituencies by the MFP. Pheu Thai should reflect on its poll performance.” Additionally, the former Bangkok MP expressed that he was counting on the party to expel his father, Police Captain Chalerm Ubumrung, as a list MP so that his father could retain his MP status and defect to another party. Open to offers Wan mentioned he was open to offers from other parties interested in recruiting him. He also admitted to maintaining close ties with Bhumjaithai Party leader Anutin Charnvirakul. Paetongtarn, meanwhile, stated that the discussion with Wan was concluded. “There’s nothing more to it.” Although she did not want to see Wan leave the party, she respected his decision. Regarding Pol. Capt. Chalerm, the Pheu Thai leader reiterated that the party had no policy to expel the MP in this case. Wan’s resignation has stirred conversations within the political landscape, highlighting the delicate balance of loyalty and personal relationships within Thailand’s political parties, reported Bangkok Post. By Ryan Turner Image courtesy of 3 Plus News Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai YouTuber shoots man in leg over football betting dispute Photo via Amarin TV A Thai YouTuber, with over one million subscribers, shot a former boxer in the leg at a restaurant in Nonthaburi province near Bangkok over a football bet and financial dispute. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333089-thai-youtuber-shoots-man-in-leg-over-football-betting-dispute/

A Thai YouTuber, with over one million subscribers, shot a former boxer in the leg at a restaurant in Nonthaburi province near Bangkok over a football bet and financial dispute. The victim, 38 year old Atikhun “Oat” Nueangpim, sought help from Porramate Chaipatcharakunpong, the President of the Advisory Committee of the Nonthaburi Provincial Prosecutor, fearing he would never receive justice due to the other party’s influential status. Oat recounted the incident to Porramate and Channel 3, explaining that he had arranged to meet with the other party, 42 year old Anusorn Thuptate, well-known for his YouTube channel Once Upon a Time by Coke Zero, at the restaurant in Nonthaburi to clear up their conflict. Oat revealed that Anusorn misunderstood him after he urged him to use 70,000 baht of his money to bet on football for him. The agreement was made when Anusorn was drunk, leading to misunderstandings in the football betting but Oat did not clarify how. According to Oat, he expressed his willingness to compensate Anusorn with the 70,000 baht that his former friend lost in a football betting mistake. On the day of the incident, Oat agreed to meet Anusorn at a restaurant, believing they could resolve their issue amicably as they had been friends. However, Anusorn brandished a gun and threatened him before firing. Oat managed to press the gun down, causing the shot to hit his leg instead of a vital area. Oat revealed that he decided to seek help from Porramate due to concerns for his safety. Anusorn was well-known and had connections with influential people, while Oat was just a former boxer without any power. Porramate ensured Oat’s safety and believed it was important to hear the other side of the story. He planned to discuss the matter with Bang Yai Police Station and summon the other party for questioning. Anusorn reportedly visited Oat at the hospital with his employees but Oat refused to speak with him for fear of another altercation. Channel 3 reported that Bang Yai Police Station had already summoned Anusorn for questioning, and he admitted to his wrongdoing. Details on the legal punishment for the gunman have not yet been released. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Amarin TV Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Food fight: Chatuchak market prices stir up a spicy online debate Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A shocking revelation about the cost of food at Chatuchak market sparked a fierce online discussion. A Facebook user posted in the group พวกเราคือผู้บริโภค (We Are Consumers), which has 780,000 members, sharing their shock at being charged 820 baht for three dishes. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333088-food-fight-chatuchak-market-prices-stir-up-a-spicy-online-debate/

A shocking revelation about the cost of food at Chatuchak market sparked a fierce online discussion. A Facebook user posted in the group พวกเราคือผู้บริโภค (We Are Consumers), which has 780,000 members, sharing their shock at being charged 820 baht for three dishes. Visiting the market only once a year, the user admitted to lacking local knowledge. They recounted their experience, stating they were drawn to a curry stall with an appetising array of dishes. Without asking for prices first, they ordered three items, assuming the market was generally more expensive but not expecting such a large bill. “I ordered three dishes as shown in the picture. When I asked for the price, the vendor said 820 baht. I was shocked and asked again, ‘How much?’ The vendor repeated, ‘820 baht.'” The breakdown of the cost was detailed as follows: two boiled mackerels for 380 baht, fried shrimp with garlic for 400 baht, and spicy stir-fried catfish for 40 baht, bringing the total to 820 baht. The user expressed their disbelief but paid the amount since they had already ordered. “This should serve as a lesson for anyone unfamiliar with the Chatuchak market. Always ask for prices before ordering.” The post quickly garnered numerous comments, with many agreeing that the prices were excessively high compared to the portion sizes provided. “This market is known for being pricier, but this is just too much.” “It’s crucial to always check prices, especially in touristy areas.” The discussion highlighted a broader concern about the transparency of pricing in markets popular with locals and tourists. Several members of the Facebook group shared similar experiences, emphasising the need for vigilance when purchasing food in such busy markets, reported KhaoSod. “Always ask for the price first, even if you feel awkward. It saves you from unpleasant surprises.” “Markets can be tricky. Sometimes vendors take advantage of those who don’t ask questions.” By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Bangkok to quicken the process of removing illegal structures from canals File photo for reference only The city authorities in Bangkok have promised to speed up the process of getting rid of illegally built structures on the city's wide network of canals. With over 1,980 canals in Bangkok, 233 of them fall under the Department of Drainage's control, while local district offices manage the rest. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333081-bangkok-to-quicken-the-process-of-removing-illegal-structures-from-canals/

The city authorities in Bangkok have promised to speed up the process of getting rid of illegally built structures on the city's wide network of canals. With over 1,980 canals in Bangkok, 233 of them fall under the Department of Drainage's control, while local district offices manage the rest. A 2021 study by the Department of Drainage and Sewerage revealed that about 11,035 illegal structures have been built over the canals. Most are located in the northern districts (7,667), followed by the central (1,635), southern (1,078), and eastern (471) parts. In North Thonburi and South Thonburi, there are 123 and 61 illegal structures respectively. The department claims to have dismantled 2,752 of these structures. Currently, about 7,800 households are discussing with the city authorities on their illegal canal constructions. Of these, 422 households have been flagged for encroaching on waterways, while 53 others face charges under the Building Control Act. In an effort to prevent further illegal structures, the Deputy Permanent Secretary of the city authority, Narong Ruangsri, said they are working with the National Housing Authority to provide affordable housing for low-income families. As reported by the Bangkok Post, he stated, "We are committed to resolving this issue while ensuring that affected families have access to safe and affordable housing." File photo for reference only -- 2024-07-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Bangkok Police Nab Thief Who Targeted Embassy Cars in Bold Heist File photo for reference only Police in Bangkok have seized a man who broke into a car care shop and stole side mirrors from several cars owned by an embassy. The alleged thief was caught on CCTV footage and later confessed to selling the stolen items for cash. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333079-bangkok-police-nab-thief-who-targeted-embassy-cars-in-bold-heist/

Police in Bangkok have seized a man who broke into a car care shop and stole side mirrors from several cars owned by an embassy. The alleged thief was caught on CCTV footage and later confessed to selling the stolen items for cash. Thung Maha Mek Police Station Superintendent, Panom Chueathong, announced on July 15 that the investigative team arrested 37-year-old Akkaphon Laphasanan. He is accused of burglary and theft at night, using a vehicle to aid the crime or avoid arrest. The arrest was made at a home in Thung Maha Mek, Sathorn, Bangkok. The investigation was sparked by an incident on July 9, around 2.30am, where side mirrors were taken from a bronze Mercedes-Benz and several neighboring vehicles. The cars had been left at the shop overnight for service programs such as cleaning and polishing. The theft was reported to the police. A prior initiative by ex-Police Chief Suwat Jangyodsuk, which saw CCTV cameras installed by the Royal Thai Police (RTP), was instrumental in this case. The CCTV captured the crime in full view, providing a key piece of evidence to identify the culprit. Upon questioning, Akkaphon admitted to the offenses. He confessed to entering the shop's property, stealing the side mirrors from various vehicles, and selling them to cover personal expenses. One of the cars involved was a regular vehicle from an anonymous foreign embassy. File photo for reference only -- 2024-07-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Unidentified Man's Handless Body Discovered in Central Thailand File photo for reference only A man's body, with both hands missing, was discovered on a sugarcane farm in the central province of Nakhon Sawan, Thailand. The identity of the deceased is still unknown as police search for his severed hands initially. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333078-unidentified-mans-handless-body-discovered-in-central-thailand/

A man's body, with both hands missing, was discovered on a sugarcane farm in the central province of Nakhon Sawan, Thailand. The identity of the deceased is still unknown as police search for his severed hands initially. The farm owner, Boonyoung Phothong, 53, found the body during his routine crop inspection. Boonyoung, who believes the deceased was not a local, reported the find to the police at Phayuha Khiri Station. According to the police, the body, wrapped in a red sleeping bag, had no personal belongings nor any identification documents. The only item found was a necklace with a Buddhist amulet. The man's body was sent to the Police General Hospital for a post-mortem. Officers had trouble identifying the deceased as he was believed to have been dead for at least two weeks before being discovered. They are now examining local security camera footage to identify both the victim and the perpetrator. The area's community leader, Malee Phudtaraksa, 50, highlighted that some CCTV cameras are located around five kilometers from where the corpse was found, though it's possible they might not have recorded any related incident. Like Boonyoung, Malee confirms that no one from the local community has been reported missing. File photo for reference only -- 2024-07-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand is dealing with a household debt crisis and a slow economic recovery File photo for reference only The Economic Cabinet has instructed the Finance Ministry and the Bank of Thailand to urgently address rising household debt. This encompasses bad debts related to housing, cars, motorcycles, credit cards, and student loans, as the Thai economy continues to struggle to rebound. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333077-thailand-is-dealing-with-a-household-debt-crisis-and-a-slow-economic-recovery/

The Economic Cabinet has instructed the Finance Ministry and the Bank of Thailand to urgently address rising household debt. This encompasses bad debts related to housing, cars, motorcycles, credit cards, and student loans, as the Thai economy continues to struggle to rebound. Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira mentioned after a meeting lead by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, that the PM ordered swift action on economic decline due to the absence of clear recovery signs. The central concern is the growing bad debt in the household sector and among small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs), with household debt reaching alarming levels. The amount of household debt has reached 13.6 trillion baht, equal to 90% of the country's GDP. Of this, around 1 trillion baht is bad debt, a figure that is predicted to rise as more debts risk being classified as bad or special mention (SM) loans. Half of these SM loans, which are overdue by 30 to 90 days, are tied to housing and cars, while the rest is associated with credit card debt. To counter bad debts in the housing sector, the Government Housing Bank has been directed to extend home loan repayments for borrowers until they reach 85 years old. This move particularly aims at increasing the mortgage plan duration for civil servants to 85 years, and for other individuals to 80, from the earlier limit of 60 to 70 years. Finance Minister Pichai added that this extension would lower the installment amount helping reduce financial pressures on homebuyers dealing with high living costs. The government also will urge commercial banks to support customers struggling with repayments by increasing the repayment duration and decreasing the principal payment. As for bad debts from repossessed cars and motorcycles, a provision for tackling these will be made and the total debt amount shared at the next meeting. Meanwhile, the outstanding balance on 1.4 million out of a total of 24 million credit cards in the system is expected to rise to between 2 and 3 million cards. The Bank of Thailand will collaborate with credit card companies to decrease the minimum payment from the existing 8% to 5%, with prospects for further adjustments. Minister Pichai assures quick implementation of measures to handle bad debt as the government plans to reduce, manage and extend debt to help the economy gradually recover. File photo for reference only -- 2024-07-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Irish terrorist engaged to Thai bride 50 years his junior Photo courtesy of Sunday World An infamous Irish terrorist revealed his engagement to a Thai bride half a century younger. Gormy McMullan, a prime suspect in the Loughinisland massacre, announced his upcoming nuptials to Thai national Bannapon Nuch Jathasan on social media, igniting a storm of reactions. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333075-irish-terrorist-engaged-to-thai-bride-50-years-his-junior/

An infamous Irish terrorist revealed his engagement to a Thai bride half a century younger. Gormy McMullan, a prime suspect in the Loughinisland massacre, announced his upcoming nuptials to Thai national Bannapon Nuch Jathasan on social media, igniting a storm of reactions. “I have decided she is my main one now.” The 71 year old murder suspect proudly declared in response to a flurry of congratulatory messages. The pair reportedly met 18 months ago during one of McMullan’s many trips to Thailand and Vietnam. A former member of the UVF under the notorious Shankill Butchers’ leader Lenny Murphy, McMullan reportedly has a chilling past. However, when contacted by the Sunday World for comment, McMullan refused to divulge details about his and his Thai bride’s plans or where they intend to settle down. It remains uncertain whether McMullan’s bride Bannapon is prepared to trade the sun-kissed beaches of Thailand for Belfast’s Newtownards Road. Friends of the Irishman insist that he’s been candid about his violent past with his bride-to-be. “Gormy has told Bannapon all about his days in the Red Hand Commando and the UVF. He’s made it clear that his terrorist days are over, and now he’s just involved with the UVF Regimental Band, where he parades in a Guards dress uniform and carries a ceremonial sword.” McMullan’s dark history includes being a suspected getaway driver in the UVF’s brutal attack on the Heights Bar in Loughinisland, Co Down, where six Catholics were murdered in 1994. The award-winning documentary No Stone Unturned implicated McMullan in this atrocity, though he was never charged. Originally from the Clarawood estate in East Belfast, McMullan’s criminal career spans decades, with convictions for bombing a Catholic bar and robbing a meat plant. His associations with the Shankill Butchers and their leader, Lenny Murphy, have only cemented his notorious reputation. Despite his gruesome past, McMullan shockingly defended the Butchers in a BBC interview. “I regarded them as a decent bunch of lads.” McMullan’s controversial statements and violent history continue to haunt him, yet the Irishman seems unfazed as he embarks on a new chapter in his life with Bannapon, reported Sunday World. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Sunday World Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

State officials implicated in bid-rigging scheme for rubber latex firms Photo courtesy of KhaoSod The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) uncovered the involvement of state officials in bid-rigging for rubber latex companies in 10 provinces, leading to significant financial losses for the country. The investigation has been forwarded to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) for further action. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333074-state-officials-implicated-in-bid-rigging-scheme-for-rubber-latex-firms/

The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) uncovered the involvement of state officials in bid-rigging for rubber latex companies in 10 provinces, leading to significant financial losses for the country. The investigation has been forwarded to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) for further action. Last year, a group of rubber latex traders submitted a letter to the prime minister, requesting an investigation into alleged preferential treatment given to specific individuals or groups in bidding processes for construction projects in the northeastern region. This alleged misconduct, which took place in 2022, has reportedly cost the country over 100 million baht in lost revenue. A source from the DSI’s Bureau of Offenses Related to State Bidding revealed that their investigative team has identified wrongdoing by state officials. Consequently, the investigation documents have been sent to the NACC for consideration and action under the Organic Act on Anti-Corruption of 2018. “The investigation has unearthed serious misconduct, involving collusion between state officials and private companies.” Samut, a businessman, initially submitted a letter on December 19 last year to Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin through Thanikrit Jitarareerat, Assistant Minister to the Deputy Prime Minister at the time. This letter highlighted corruption within the local administrative organisations across 10 provinces: Sisaket, Ratchaburi, Amnat Charoen, Nong Khai, Yasothon, Khon Kaen, Kanchanaburi, Chaiyaphum, Maha Sarakham, and Roi Et. The letter pointed out connections between bid-rigging activities and rubber latex companies. At the time of submitting the letter, Samut raised five key issues that required investigation. These included whether local police could set specific terms and conditions for construction projects, such as requiring bidders to attach a certification from patent holders of rubber latex mixture products. Additionally, the letter questioned the identity of the patent holders for these rubber latex mixtures. “The specifics of the tender requirements seemed tailored to benefit certain companies, which raised suspicion.” The prime minister had ordered an investigation into these claims, promising legal action if corruption was confirmed, reported KhaoSod. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai man kills drug-addicted brother after attack on mother Photo via Channel 7 A Thai man stabbed his drug-addicted younger brother to death after he attempted to physically assault his mother at home in the Isaan province of Buriram. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333072-thai-man-kills-drug-addicted-brother-after-attack-on-mother/

A Thai man stabbed his drug-addicted younger brother to death after he attempted to physically assault his mother at home in the Isaan province of Buriram. Chumsaeng Police Station officers arrested the 32 year old suspect, Weera “Khao” Turam, and accompanied him to the police station for questioning. Khao admitted to stabbing to death his drug-addicted brother, 29 year old Danuphon “Tom” Turam, at about 4pm on Sunday, July 14. Khao explained that Tom was seriously addicted to methamphetamine, also known as Yaba, and took eight to ten tablets per day. He was a known alcoholic as well. His mother, 59 year old Chanta Turam, gave him money to buy drugs and alcohol but he always complained it was never enough. On the day of the incident, Tom demanded money from his mother again and attempted to attack her when she could not find any money for him. Khao intervened in the incident to protect his mother, making Tom turn his attention to Khao instead. Khao admitted that he could no longer bear his brother’s behaviour and was furious, so he grabbed a folding knife and stabbed his brother multiple times until he died at the scene. Chanta told Channel 3 that Khao used to work as an engineer for a well-known company but he resigned to take care of her. Chanta said her younger son asked her for at least 200 baht per day. Knife attack According to Chanta, Tom asked for five bottles of alcohol and 13 Yaba tablets but she could not afford it. During a physical altercation, Khao killed Tom in self-defence after his brother attempted to attack him with a kitchen knife. Khao managed to reach a nearby folding knife before Tom. Chanta added that Tom had forced her to borrow money from neighbours to buy alcohol and drugs. She is now uncertain how she will repay these debts, as Khao has been sent to jail. The deputy community leader, 55 year old Pao Saendee, revealed in an interview with Channel 3 that Chanta has two grandchildren, aged seven and 13. Pao expressed concern that Chanta would be unable to afford to care for the two children. Channel 3 reported that Pao spoke in tears, saying that he felt sorry for the family. He previously asked police officers to take Tom to a rehabilitation centre but officers only took him to a hospital for a few days and released him until this tragic incident took place. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 7 Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Udon Thani hotel calls for delay in electricity rate hike Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A prominent hotel in Udon Thani urged the government to delay the planned electricity rate hike, citing concerns about the current purchasing power of consumers. They argue that customers are only spending on necessities, and an increase in electricity costs could further impact the number of patrons using their services. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333071-udon-thani-hotel-calls-for-delay-in-electricity-rate-hike/

A prominent hotel in Udon Thani urged the government to delay the planned electricity rate hike, citing concerns about the current purchasing power of consumers. They argue that customers are only spending on necessities, and an increase in electricity costs could further impact the number of patrons using their services. Apicha Veerachatiyanukul, the managing director of Udon Plaza Co., Ltd., which operates UD Town, the Moko Hotel, and the Montathip International Convention Centre, highlighted that while the booking situation for rooms and event spaces remains vibrant, the potential increase in electricity tariffs poses a significant challenge. The hotel and convention centre continues to attract both private sector clients and government agencies for lodging and conferences, with room bookings extending to August and full bookings on Fridays and Saturdays in September. International tourists are also staying longer, extending their visits from two to three days to about five days, with the majority of these tourists coming from China, Korea, and Europe. However, inside the UD Town shopping centre, consumer spending is more cautious. Customers are taking longer to decide on purchases and are focusing mainly on essential items. The proposed electricity rate hike, set to take effect from September to December, has drawn concern from Apicha. She noted that such an increase would add to the operational costs for businesses, especially those like shopping centres and hotels that consume substantial amounts of electricity. “If the government proceeds with the electricity rate hike, it will be challenging to immediately pass these increased costs to customers, which could lead to a decrease in service usage.” Apicha suggested that if the government must increase electricity rates, it should introduce compensatory measures to help businesses manage their costs. Tax reductions or other forms of financial relief could help mitigate the added burden and ensure that both businesses and consumers are not adversely affected. This appeal to the government is rooted in the reality that while the economic activity within the hotel and convention sectors is robust, any additional cost pressures could disrupt the delicate balance needed to sustain business operations and customer satisfaction, reported KhaoSod. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Nakhon Ratchasima man orders toolset, gets water bottles instead Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A man from Nakhon Ratchasima was left disheartened after spending 499 baht on what he believed to be a set of tools but instead received three bottles of water. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333070-nakhon-ratchasima-man-orders-toolset-gets-water-bottles-instead/

A man from Nakhon Ratchasima was left disheartened after spending 499 baht on what he believed to be a set of tools but instead received three bottles of water. Nirat Sukboon, a 46 year old resident of Nai Mueang subdistrict, Phimai district, took his complaint to the Phimai Police Station, presenting the evidence of the water bottles. Nirat shared that he came across a Facebook page advertising a toolset for 499 baht. The price was significantly lower than the market rate, and since he needed new tools, he decided to place an order. Trusting the advertisement, he transferred the money upfront as requested. However, upon receiving his package, he was shocked to find only three bottles of water. Nirat decided to file a police report and warn the public about the potential risks of online shopping. Nirat’s case is now under investigation by the Phimai Police, who will look into the fraudulent Facebook page and work to track down the individuals responsible. The government has been pushing for more stringent regulations and better monitoring of online platforms to curb these kinds of fraudulent activities. Consumers are urged to report any suspicious activities or fraudulent transactions to the police to help combat the issue, reported KhaoSod. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Leaves Out Certain Groups from Digital Wallet Project File photo for reference only The Thailand Government plans to launch a 10,000-baht digital wallet initiative to benefit 50 million residents. However, Deputy Finance Minister, Chulaphan Amornvivat, announced at a Government House meeting that two unidentified groups would be ineligible for the project. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333000-thailand-leaves-out-certain-groups-from-digital-wallet-project/

The Thailand Government plans to launch a 10,000-baht digital wallet initiative to benefit 50 million residents. However, Deputy Finance Minister, Chulaphan Amornvivat, announced at a Government House meeting that two unidentified groups would be ineligible for the project. Based on previous state projects, the government expects a 90% subscription rate, meaning they have earmarked 450 billion baht to cover 45 million participants. Finance Ministry in partnership with the Budget Bureau have reviewed the project’s funding, which will come from the budget allocations for 2024 and 2025. For 2024, an additional budget of 122 billion baht will be proposed to the House of Representatives, along with 43 billion baht from financial and budget management. For the 2025 budget, they will allocate 152 billion baht, plus an additional 132 billion baht for financial management. Deputy Minister Chulaphan mentioned that the exact dates for registration will be confirmed soon, with rollout planned for the fourth quarter. The Bank of Thailand will remain in charge of the system's security. Chulaphan also clarified that the Digital Government Development Agency has been developing the platform, and will then pass the responsibility to the outsourcing team. The initiative is intended to stimulate economic growth by enhancing public spending. A list of prohibited goods and services for the digital wallet has been developed. The Commerce Ministry has the authority to revise this list, subject to subcommittee approval, for example, on items such as firearms. Individuals or businesses previously in violation of state project terms or involved in reimbursement litigation will not be eligible for the scheme. The Cabinet will review the plan next week, with comprehensive details set to be released soon. The Prime Minister of Thailand hinted that the registration for the digital wallet may open on August 1, with detailed guidelines and eligibility criteria to be announced shortly. File photo for reference only -- 2024-07-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe