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Police in Lamphun issued a public warning about con artists using artificial intelligence (AI) to create convincing video calls impersonating police officers. A recent incident involved scammers using the image of a female officer, Ploy, to deceive the public. The police reported that fraudsters took a still image of Ploy, who manages a social media page called Accountant Aspires to be a Police Officer, and manipulated it using AI technology. This technology enabled them to make her mouth move in sync with their voice, creating a realistic but fake video call. The con artists then posed as officers from Lamphun City Police Station during these calls, misleading unsuspecting victims. Ploy emphasised that the deceptive calls have caused significant confusion, making some people mistakenly believe she was part of the scam. “This is not the first time such an incident has occurred.” The police department emphasised that they do not use the Line application for official communication. They urged the public to be cautious and not to fall for such scams, clarifying that any official contact would be made through formal channels, such as government-issued letters or summons. The warning highlighted the increasing sophistication of scammers who now leverage advanced technology to trick people. The police explained that the fraudsters use AI to synchronise the movements of the person’s face with pre-recorded audio, making the video seem genuine. This tactic can easily deceive individuals who are unaware of such technological manipulations. “We urge the public not to trust unsolicited video calls claiming to be from government officials.” Police advised citizens to verify the identity of the caller through official means before engaging in any conversation, especially if it involves sensitive information or financial transactions. In light of these events, the police have ramped up their efforts to educate the public about the dangers of AI-based scams. They have provided guidelines on how to identify and report suspicious activities. Citizens are encouraged to contact the police directly if they receive any dubious communications, reported KhaoSod. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Mae Hong Son hit by 3.1 magnitude earthquake, mild tremors Image courtesy of KhaoSod An earthquake measuring 3.1 on the Richter scale struck Mae Hong Son today causing mild tremors felt by residents. The quake, which occurred at 5.23am, today, July 4, had its epicentre in the Huai Pu Ling sub-district, Mueang district of Mae Hong Son. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331494-mae-hong-son-hit-by-31-magnitude-earthquake-mild-tremors/

An earthquake measuring 3.1 on the Richter scale struck Mae Hong Son today causing mild tremors felt by residents. The quake, which occurred at 5.23am, today, July 4, had its epicentre in the Huai Pu Ling sub-district, Mueang district of Mae Hong Son. The Department of Mineral Resources’ Earthquake Operations Center, under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, reported the quake at a depth of 1 kilometre. The tremor was the result of movement along the Mae Hong Son fault line, which runs north-south. This fault line movement is classified as a normal fault, typically causing minor earthquakes. Residents experienced the quake’s intensity at levels two to three on the Modified Mercalli Intensity scale, indicating very mild shaking. People in stationary positions reported feeling the ground tremble slightly. The Earthquake Operations Center quickly coordinated with local disaster warning volunteers and relevant agencies to assess the impact. Fortunately, there were no reports of significant tremors or damage in the affected areas. The centre guided the local disaster network and the public, urging them to stay informed and monitor the situation closely. In recent years, there has been an increased focus on earthquake preparedness in the region. Local officers and communities have been working together to improve response plans and ensure that residents are well-informed about what to do in the event of an earthquake. Earthquake preparedness includes measures such as securing heavy furniture, having emergency kits ready, and knowing evacuation routes. The Earthquake Operations Center continues to emphasise the importance of these precautions, especially in areas prone to seismic activity. By Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai man walks 4km for help after being stabbed by homeless man Photo via Facebook/ TMN Cable TV Pattaya A Thai man walked 4 kilometres to seek help after a homeless man stabbed him to steal alms he collected from an ordination ceremony at a temple in Chon Buri. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331493-thai-man-walks-4km-for-help-after-being-stabbed-by-homeless-man/

A Thai man walked 4 kilometres to seek help after a homeless man stabbed him to steal alms he collected from an ordination ceremony at a temple in Chon Buri. Sawang Boriboon Dhammasathan Rescue Foundation was called to Soi Photisan in the Bang Lamung district of Chon Buri to rescue the injured Thai man, Somchai. Bang Lamung Police Station also rushed to the scene to investigate the incident. Upon arrival, the rescuers found locals in the area already providing 41 year old Somchai with first aid. They took over and rushed Somchai to a nearby hospital. On the way to the hospital, Somchai recounted the incident to the rescuers, saying that he had attended an ordination ceremony at Tham Samakkhi Temple and collected coins scattered by the newly ordained monk. He then left the ceremony to count the money he had received. While counting, a homeless man suddenly stabbed him in the stomach. He left all the money and ran from the scene to save his life. He continued walking along Sukhumvit Road in search of help. A 41 year old woman, Kae, who contacted the rescue team and police, revealed to Channel 3 that Somchai asked her for help. She noticed Somchai had been injured. Somchai told her that he was stabbed at the temple, which was over 4 kilometres away from where she met him. Police are now investigating the incident and reviewing security camera footage at the temple and nearby areas to identify and locate the attacker. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ TMN Cable TV Pattaya Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Son confesses to stabbing bedridden mother in Kamphaeng Phet Image courtesy of KhaoSod A tragic event unfolded yesterday when a son confessed to fatally stabbing his bedridden mother in Kamphaeng Phet, neighbour noted his longstanding frustration with caring for his mother, whom the son considered a burden. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331492-son-confesses-to-stabbing-bedridden-mother-in-kamphaeng-phet/

A tragic event unfolded yesterday when a son confessed to fatally stabbing his bedridden mother in Kamphaeng Phet, neighbour noted his longstanding frustration with caring for his mother, whom the son considered a burden. Police received the distress call yesterday evening and arrived at the scene, accompanied by rescue personnel from Sawang Kamphaeng Phet Dhammasathan. The victim, 54 year old Phayao, was discovered in her single-storey house wearing a yellow floral shirt and black trousers, with a knife lodged in her abdomen, her lifeless body sprawled on the bed. Her son, 36 year old Tum was present at the scene, visibly intoxicated, and waiting to provide his statement to the police. Tum admitted to stabbing his mother multiple times, although he couldn’t recall the exact number of times due to his inebriated state. He expressed remorse, stating that he didn’t fully realise the severity of his actions until he sobered up. Neighbours provided insight into the family’s dynamic, revealing that Tum had often expressed frustration, viewing his mother as a burden due to her inability to walk. One neighbour mentioned Tum’s previous comments, wishing for his mother’s death. The neighbour had recently asked Tum to clear the overgrown area around the house, fearing that a snake might bite his immobile mother. There was an incident involving a cobra just days before. On the day of the murder, the neighbour saw Phayao lying under a tamarind tree outside her house around noon. She usually bought ice cream from a daily vendor and would slide herself into the house using a cushion because she couldn’t walk. Rarely caring Tum was typically absent during the day, staying at a different house nearby and returning only in the evening, rarely caring for his mother. Later that evening, around 7pm, Tum approached the neighbour, informing them of the stabbing, prompting the neighbour to check and notify the village head and police. Further conversations with the neighbour revealed that Tum had consistently distanced himself from caretaking duties, often leaving his mother alone. Despite the neighbour’s warnings about his harsh statements regarding his mother, Tum seemed indifferent. Phayao had two children, with Tum being the elder sibling, while her daughter lived in Bangkok. Police contacted her daughter immediately after the stabbing. A forensic team and a physician from Khlong Lan Hospital were called in to examine the scene and collect evidence. Tum was taken into custody to face legal proceedings, reported KhaoSod. By Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Elderly woman in Samut Prakan assaulted by daughter-in-law Photo courtesy of KhaoSod An elderly woman was allegedly assaulted by her daughter-in-law, resulting in severe facial injuries that required 10 stitches. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331491-elderly-woman-in-samut-prakan-assaulted-by-daughter-in-law/

An elderly woman was allegedly assaulted by her daughter-in-law, resulting in severe facial injuries that required 10 stitches. The incident was reported yesterday, July 3, and the police, along with the social service and health officials, intervened to assist at the 73 year old woman’s residence in Bang Sao Thong, Samut Prakan. Upon arrival, police discovered the elderly woman, Udom, with a split head and multiple bruises on her face and body. Initial speculation suggested that her injuries were inconsistent with a simple fall, as her son claimed. Udom was immediately taken to Bang Sao Thong Hospital for medical attention. Udom recounted that the ordeal began when she noticed her dentures missing, which led to a confrontation with her daughter-in-law. She accused her daughter-in-law of throwing them away, which escalated into a physical altercation. Udom mentioned previous incidents where she had suffered injuries that required stitches, indicating a history of abuse. “I was just looking for my dentures, and she hit me. I asked her where my dentures were, and she told me to stay out of her way, calling me names and telling me to live alone.” Her son, Ek, recounted how his partner had initially claimed that his mother had slipped and fallen, causing the injuries. However, upon seeing the severity of the wounds, he doubted this explanation. “She told me my mother had slipped, but the injuries didn’t match up with a simple fall. There were bruises around her eyes and cheeks, which seemed more like the result of a beating.” Ek’s partner, 42 year old Kittiyaphan reported that she regularly checked on Udom and found her with a bleeding head two days prior. She claimed to have taken Udom to the hospital, where she received six stitches. “I asked her what happened, and she said her daughter-in-law hit her. I called her son to inform him about it, and we took her to the hospital.” History of abuse Udom’s son admitted that he was often away for work, leaving his mother under the care of his partner. He expressed concern over the recurring injuries and sought help from the police. “I drive for a living and I’m often not around. I want the police to help because I can’t be there to look after her all the time. If the abuse continues, I won’t let my partner take care of her anymore.” Neighbours and other witnesses corroborated the claims of abuse. Sriwan stated that the daughter-in-law often caused disturbances, leading to conflicts in the household. “The daughter-in-law always causes a scene. It’s not safe for the elderly woman. We need someone to look after her properly.” Officials from the Provincial Social Development and Human Security Office of Samut Prakan are now involved, planning long-term support and protection for Udom. They are considering placing her in a protected home to ensure her safety and well-being, reported KhaoSod. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Canadian military man confesses to gangster’s murder in Thailand Photo courtesy of KhaoSod English A former Canadian soldier pleaded guilty in Bangkok for his role in the February 2022 murder of notorious British Columbia gangster Jimi Sandhu. Matthew Dupre, hailing from Sylvan Lake, Alberta, admitted his involvement on the trial’s opening day, June 27. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331409-canadian-military-man-confesses-to-gangster’s-murder-in-thailand/

A former Canadian soldier pleaded guilty in Bangkok for his role in the February 2022 murder of notorious British Columbia gangster Jimi Sandhu. Matthew Dupre, hailing from Sylvan Lake, Alberta, admitted his involvement on the trial’s opening day, June 27. The dramatic hit occurred at a beachfront resort in Phuket, captured on CCTV. Sandhu, staying in a private waterfront villa, was targeted in the resort’s parking area. Investigations revealed a fake Canadian ID and cash in the villa. Sergeant Brenda Winpenny of the anti-gang Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit (CFSEU-B.C.) confirmed Dupre’s admission, linking the murder plot back to Canada. “The guilty plea to the murder of Sandhu in Thailand speaks to the capabilities of CFSEU-B.C. when it comes to complex international investigations connected to the gang landscape and our ability to assist local and international agencies to advance investigations and hold individuals accountable.” Sandhu, a United Nations gang member deported to India in 2016, was killed in a plot by the Canadian-based Wolfpack gang. Following his murder, police searched Dupre’s Alberta home, the Trail residence of co-accused Gene Lahrkamp, who later died in hiding, and another suspect’s Ontario home. Dupre, extradited in May 2023, has been in Thai custody for 14 months. Thailand waived the death penalty in this high-profile case. The Royal Thai Police presented evidence, including surveillance videos, car rental and hotel records, and DNA and fingerprints. Dupre and his former army buddy Lahrkamp arrived in Phuket on December 18, 2021. They returned to Canada on February 8, 2022, and were soon identified as suspects. Lahrkamp died in a plane crash near Sioux Lookout, Ontario, on April 30, 2022. Both had left the Canadian Armed Forces as corporals. Dupre’s LinkedIn reveals combat experience in Afghanistan, later working as a private military contractor in Syria and Iraq. Sandhu was involved in the Southeast Asian drug trade, banned from Malaysia, and sought by Indian police. He rented the Phuket villa in November 2021, attended a lavish New Year’s Eve party in Bangkok, and returned to Phuket on January 27, 2022, just days before his murder, reported The Province. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod English Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai-ed up: British man’s terrifying prison ordeal in Thailand Photo courtesy of Birmingham Mail UK A British man from Birmingham revealed the harrowing tale of his five-month ordeal in a Thai prison, labelling the conditions as inhumane and horrendous. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331408-thai-ed-up-british-man’s-terrifying-prison-ordeal-in-thailand/

A British man from Birmingham revealed the harrowing tale of his five-month ordeal in a Thai prison, labelling the conditions as inhumane and horrendous. Jamie Morton was teaching English in Thailand when he got entangled in the local drug and alcohol scene. In January 2019, Morton was accosted by eight individuals on a street corner, who then whisked him away to the IDC detention centre. Describing his time there as a nightmare, the 30 year old British man recalled how inmates were only allowed outside for one or two hours a day, with running water available for just a few hours. By May of the same year, he was released and flown back to London, where he expressed immense joy at returning to England. Since then, Morton has radically changed his life, giving up alcohol and marrying his partner, Faaizah. Now an online coach based in Birmingham, West Midlands, England the British man reflected on his tumultuous past. “I was young, living in Thailand and working illegally as a teacher.” After his tourist visa expired, Morton fell into a dangerous crowd, leading him into the drug and alcohol scene. “I got into the wrong crowd of people. I ended up being taken in by undercover police. I was standing on the street corner, and suddenly eight people surrounded me and took me to prison.” Morton described the appalling conditions in the cell, crammed with 180 people. “It was a nightmare; the conditions were so inhumane and horrendous. You never knew when your end date would be. It was very frustrating.” Morton was handed a five-year ban on travelling to Thailand, which ends this year. “It was an amazing feeling to leave that prison but I wasn’t convinced until the plane took off. Once I arrived in the UK, I was elated to be back on English soil and see my family again.” Going sober Despite the initial relief, the Brummie struggled with old habits, frequently visiting pubs. However, in September 2022, he decided to quit drinking for good. “I started to get into some minor scrapes with the law when I got back and realised enough was enough.” After giving up alcohol, Morton found love with his wife Faaizah in October 2022, and they married on August 15 last year. Now, he dedicates his life to helping others avoid his past mistakes. “Being married has completely changed me but I still have that temptation every day to go back to drink.” Through his online coaching venture, Morton aims to guide young men in fitness and steer them away from alcohol, reported Birmingham Mail UK. “I have a totally different life now, but I still have my moments where I contemplate going to the pub. I want to teach young men how to swerve a drink.” By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Birmingham Mail UK Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand boosts financial aid for dependent individuals Image courtesy of KhaoSod The Government of Thailand is set to increase annual financial aid for dependent individuals from 6,000 baht to 10,442 baht per person while expanding the target group to cover up to 600,000 people. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331407-thailand-boosts-financial-aid-for-dependent-individuals/

The Government of Thailand is set to increase annual financial aid for dependent individuals from 6,000 baht to 10,442 baht per person while expanding the target group to cover up to 600,000 people. Deputy government spokesperson Karom Ponpolklang announced today, July 3, that each year, approximately 320,000 dependent individuals receive care from the state. However, additional groups in the community, such as those with dementia and terminally ill patients requiring palliative care, also need support. These groups, like those with an Activities of Daily Living (ADL) score of 11 or lower, necessitate similar care. To enhance service accessibility for dependent individuals, allowing them to receive care at home or within their communities, the National Health Security Board (NHSB) has approved an expansion of the target group. The new coverage will now include individuals with moderate dementia and terminally ill patients. This expansion is expected to increase the number of dependent individuals receiving care to approximately 600,000. Karom further stated that the NHSB has also approved a budget increase for long-term public healthcare services for dependent individuals in various areas. The previous flat rate of 6,000 baht per person per year will now be raised to 10,442 baht per person per year, an increase of 4,442 baht per person annually. This budget boost will provide local administrative organisations (LAOs) with more funds to better care for dependent individuals in their areas. It will enable service units to improve their services and procure necessary medical equipment for patients, reported KhaoSod. Additionally, the budget increase will encourage capable service units, such as community-based hospices, to participate in the care of dependent individuals within the system. Karom spoke on the government’s aim regarding the project. Ageing society “The government aims to improve the quality of life for dependent individuals and support Thailand’s ageing society through budget allocations to the National Health Security Office (NHSO). The NHSO, in collaboration with LAOs, will ensure that dependent individuals access essential health services under the National Health Security Fund (30-baht gold card) through the Public Health Long-Term Care System for Elderly Dependent Individuals” The expanded coverage and increased budget will allow for more comprehensive and effective care of ill patients, addressing the needs of a growing number of dependent individuals in Thailand’s ageing population. With this new initiative, government aid aims to alleviate the burden on families and communities caring for dependent individuals by ensuring that everyone receives the care and support they need. By Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Seized cars drive Thai social media wild as auction lot goes viral Image courtesy of เครือสหพัฒน์-แหลมฉบัง Facebook page A parking lot filled with seized vehicles, ranging from pickup trucks to motorcycles, awaiting auction went viral on social media today. Vehicles, both old and new, are being auctioned at starting prices as low as 3,000 baht for cars and 100 baht for motorcycles. However, buyers must handle overdue taxes, fix damages and manage repairs by themselves. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331406-seized-cars-drive-thai-social-media-wild-as-auction-lot-goes-viral/

A parking lot filled with seized vehicles, ranging from pickup trucks to motorcycles, awaiting auction went viral on social media today. Vehicles, both old and new, are being auctioned at starting prices as low as 3,000 baht for cars and 100 baht for motorcycles. However, buyers must handle overdue taxes, fix damages and manage repairs by themselves. Images of the crowded lot, purportedly filled with vehicles repossessed by finance companies, sparked widespread online discussions. Many online users shared their thoughts, reflecting the current economic struggle, with one user criticising the government for the economic downturn. “You can find a new car, but in this economy, it’s more important to have enough to eat. This administration is so good at running the country [they are all] becoming rich.” While other users shared their thoughts on the previous owners of the vehicles, criticising their spending habits. “People have money to customise their cars but can’t pay the instalments. This is the result.” Reporters confirmed that the lot in question belongs to a prominent auction company with multiple branches. The latest auction round took place yesterday at their main office and their Don Mueang lot. Vehicles at the auction start at 3,000 baht for cars and 100 baht for motorcycles. The auction house provided additional details, stating that buyers must handle the transportation of their purchases. They also highlighted that the seized vehicles come with certain issues, such as non-functioning air conditioning, broken electric windows, and faulty batteries. Additionally, buyers are responsible for paying any outstanding taxes. The vehicles are sold without a VAT of 7% and do not come with registration documents. Instead, the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) will issue paperwork for new registrations. The auction, while offering potential bargains, also serves as a reflection of the broader economic issues at play. The images of rows upon rows of cars and motorcycles waiting for new owners are a potent symbol of the financial struggles many are currently enduring. By Ryan Turner Image courtesy of เครือสหพัฒน์-แหลมฉบัง Facebook page Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Prime Minister Reviews the Development of Nakhon Ratchasima Medical Hub File photo for reference only Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin recently made a visit to Maharat Nakhon Ratchasima Hospital to check the progress of the new 18-story Medical Excellence Centre. He was accompanied by Somsak Thepsuthin, the Public Health Minister and other important health officials. The visit aimed to measure the development of the venture and chalk plans for establishing the hospital as a major medical hub in northeast. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331404-prime-minister-reviews-the-development-of-nakhon-ratchasima-medical-hub/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin recently made a visit to Maharat Nakhon Ratchasima Hospital to check the progress of the new 18-story Medical Excellence Centre. He was accompanied by Somsak Thepsuthin, the Public Health Minister and other important health officials. The visit aimed to measure the development of the venture and chalk plans for establishing the hospital as a major medical hub in northeast. During his visit, Srettha repeated the government's commitment to the project. He discussed plans for the allocation of budget for purchasing medical appliances, and also talked about workforce requirements and payments. The centre is being created to serve nearly 6.7 million people. It is expected to boost public health services and decrease the healthcare gaps in Nakhon Ratchasima, Chaiyaphum, Buri Ram, and Surin provinces. The facility, which covers over 100,000 square meters and for which over 4.4 billion baht has been budgeted, is a crucial part of a bigger initiative to enhance infrastructure across five regional hospitals. The goals of the centre include cutting down mortality rates by reducing overcrowding, limiting patient transfers, reducing travel expenses and quickening access to healthcare, which will transform this provincial hospital into a specialized medical research institute. File photo for reference only -- 2024-07-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

School Dropout Rates Surpass 1 Million Students File photo for reference only In 2023, Thailand witnessed a significant increase in its student dropout rates, surpassing 1 million. This has been attributed to societal decline, political unrest, and an economic slowdown, which have forced parents to pull their children out of schools. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331403-school-dropout-rates-surpass-1-million-students/

In 2023, Thailand witnessed a significant increase in its student dropout rates, surpassing 1 million. This has been attributed to societal decline, political unrest, and an economic slowdown, which have forced parents to pull their children out of schools. Sompong Jitradub, an educational scholar and board member of the Equitable Education Fund (EEF), warned that the situation regarding students dropping out was very severe this year. EEF data indicates that around 1,025,514 students withdrew from education in 2023, a drastic increase when compared to the annual dropout trend of over 500,000 in past years. Many students typically leave school during the transition from lower to upper secondary education. However, there has been an upward trend at other stages, such as the shift from primary to secondary education or from lower secondary to vocational education. Jitradub pointed out that the primary cause of dropping out is no longer solely poverty, as was the case in the past. The politics of the country, economic conditions, and the education system are all interlinked and causing this dropout phenomenon. With political instability creating a sense of uncertainty in job opportunities and investments, the stagnating economy is leading to societal decay. Furthermore, issues within the education system itself are also contributing to the increasing dropout rates. To tackle this crisis, initiatives such as the "Thailand 0 Dropout" policy, a joint effort by the Ministry of Education and 11 other agencies, as well as the "Bring Children Back to School" policy by the Office of the Basic Education Commission, have been introduced. Nonetheless, these attempts to address the problem are falling behind the intensity of the situation. Jitradub emphasized an urgent need for proactive measures to find children who have left the education system. Some of his proposed solutions include home visits, offering welfare benefits, sourcing scholarships, and creating employment opportunities for parents. He also acknowledged that challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, such as job losses, mounting family debts, and a switch to online learning, have intensified the situation by causing a decline in learning and fostering negative social behaviors in students. Ultimately, Jitradub identified that the core issues lie within the education system's structure, process, and curriculum assessment, creating obstacles for numerous children in accessing quality and fair education. File photo for reference only -- 2024-07-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

World Bank Lowers Forecast for Thailand's GDP File photo for reference only The World Bank has reduced its prediction for Thailand's economic growth in 2024 to 2.4%, down from the earlier estimate of 2.8%. The bank did not consider the possible effects of a new digital wallet scheme in this revision. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331402-world-bank-lowers-forecast-for-thailands-gdp/

The World Bank has reduced its prediction for Thailand's economic growth in 2024 to 2.4%, down from the earlier estimate of 2.8%. The bank did not consider the possible effects of a new digital wallet scheme in this revision. According to the World Bank, the country should focus on implementing long-term economic strategies to promote growth. Despite the downgrade, Thailand's Deputy Finance Minister, Paopoom Rojanasakul, believes the economy will grow by 3% due to multiple government stimulus actions. The main factors expected to impact Thailand's economic growth in 2024 are consumer spending and tourism. The World Bank predicts that 36.1 million tourists will visit Thailand in 2024 and tourism will return to its levels before the pandemic by mid-2025. For 2025, the World Bank estimates that Thailand's GDP will grow by 2.8% due to increased domestic and global demand, and more government spending. The Bank believes 41.1 million international tourists will visit Thailand that year. Senior World Bank economist, Kiatipong Ariyapruchya, remarked that Thailand's economic recovery was slow, given the hindrances of a global economic lull, increasing costs, and inherent problems in the economy. Kiatipong noted, despite some signs of recovery, such as larger export orders in early 2024, the Thai economy's growth has been slow, especially in the tourism and export sectors, which haven't reached their pre-pandemic levels. There are concerns about rising costs, with the balance of payments now positive but still at risk due to sluggish recovery in exports and tourism. The Bank of Thailand is grappling with the challenge of managing growing costs and the economy, complicated further by uncertainties over the digital wallet proposal. Yet, Deputy Finance Minister, Paopoom Rojanasakul, remains hopeful, forecasting a 3% growth for Thailand's economy in 2024. The government plans to introduce more economic stimulus measures, including tax incentives and low-interest loans worth 100 billion baht from the Government Savings Bank. The government is also hastening budget distribution and supporting small businesses with credit guarantee schemes. The minister reassured that the country's public debt, currently at 63% of GDP including debts of government enterprises not guaranteed by the government, is manageable, with the actual public debt levels at a low 57% of GDP. File photo for reference only -- 2024-07-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Prime Minister Prioritizes Prompt Resolution of Drug Issues with Comprehensive Approach File photo for reference only The government is focusing on tackling the country's drug problem by concentrating on four main areas - suppression, treatment, rehabilitation, and aftercare. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331401-prime-minister-prioritizes-prompt-resolution-of-drug-issues-with-comprehensive-approach/

The government is focusing on tackling the country's drug problem by concentrating on four main areas - suppression, treatment, rehabilitation, and aftercare. Government Spokesperson Chai Wacharonke informed that the Prime Minister, Srettha Thavisin, considers resolving the drug issue as a pressing matter. He pointed out that the spread of drugs, especially among young people and workers, weakens the nation's capacity. Several agencies are working together on the project titled "Suppression, Treatment, Rehabilitation, and Care". Governors of provinces have been given the responsibility of consolidating efforts and coordinating with the police and the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) along with other government bodies and local communities. The ONCB will play a key role, setting ambitious targets, Key Performance Indicators, and making sure provinces have necessary support and resources. Governors and police commanders in the provinces need to collaborate effectively. The spokesperson said that extensive checks will be conducted in communities, involving urine tests for everyone aged 16 and over. Those found using drugs will have to undergo rehabilitation. Enhanced efforts to capture drug sellers will be carried out by the Royal Thai Police, Ministry of Justice, ONCB, and Ministry of Defense. According to the plan, the Ministry of Public Health will sort users by the severity of their addiction for treatment and will reintegrate them back into society when they're ready, ensuring appropriate rehab centers are available. The Ministry of Social Development and Human Security and the Ministry of Labor will pitch in with professional training and job placement to help prevent a lapse. Educational bodies will also play their part by implementing strategies to monitor the youth and inculcate new values in them, ensuring they stay drug-free. File photo for reference only -- 2024-07-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe