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The famous Naka Cave in Bueng Kan province, known for its snake-like rock structure, has reopened to the public after a month-long shutdown for natural restoration. The cave, situated in the Phu Langka National Park, started receiving tourists again from Saturday (June 2). To protect its natural habitat, the number of visitors has been limited to 1,000 per day. To control the crowd, the park office has reserved 700 spaces for on-the-spot tourists and 300 for those who book beforehand using an app. The staff is working to possibly increase this quota, based on the training of extra guides and staff for an eco-friendly tour experience. To mark the reopening of the cave, the Udon Thani Tourism Office, jointly with the Bueng Kan Tourism Office and the Northeast Tourism Council, provided special wristbands to the first 100 tourists. This is a move to boost tourism at the cave, which is known for its important geological and cultural features. In geological terms, the Naka Cave boasts of remarkable rock structures fashioned by Earth's physical activities including temperature variations that cause decay and make unique sunlight cracks on the rock surface. These natural features give the cave its look like the scales of a big snake, believed by many locals to be associated with the sacred naga, a legendary serpent honored in local folklore. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Grieving mother pleads for justice after son shot dead by gang Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A bed-ridden mother mourns her son, a Grade 8 student, who was shot dead by a gang. She pleads for the police to swiftly apprehend the perpetrators, asserting her son had no conflicts with anyone. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328855-grieving-mother-pleads-for-justice-after-son-shot-dead-by-gang/

A bed-ridden mother mourns her son, a Grade 8 student, who was shot dead by a gang. She pleads for the police to swiftly apprehend the perpetrators, asserting her son had no conflicts with anyone. Yesterday, a tragic incident occurred in Nakhon Phanom where three individuals on a motorcycle shot 14 year old Oak in the back of the head, causing him to fall off his motorcycle and lose his life in front of Saharat Rangsarit School on the Sri Songkhram-Tha Dok Kaeo Road. The murder shocked the community. Oak’s 54 year old mother, Jomsri Unglom, a former assistant village chief from Ban Pak Oon, shared her devastation. She revealed that she has been unable to sleep since she learned of her son’s death at 2am. “I cried all night, thinking about my youngest son out of five children. I cried until I was in shock and no longer had tears left.” Jomsri, who is disabled and bed-ridden after a fall in the bathroom two years ago, recounted her last memories with Oak. The evening before his death, Oak cooked a meal for her and, in what seemed like a premonition, asked if she wanted to drink alcohol. He gave her 40 baht, which he had earned from foraging mushrooms with his father and selling them, to buy white liquor to ease her pain. “My son would sleep beside me every day and cook for me since I became disabled. Our family is poor, and on weekends, he would wash dishes at nearby restaurants and collect rubber scraps to save money for school and eventually bought himself a mobile phone.” Devastated family Jomsri expressed her wish for the police to quickly capture the culprits, stating that Oak never had any conflicts with the gang. “Perhaps they shot the wrong person.” Oak’s body was sent to Srinakarin Hospital in Khon Kaen for an autopsy and was expected to arrive back around midnight. The family planned to hold a funeral service at Wat Srisomboon in Ban Pak Oon, where Jomsri hoped to see her son’s face one last time, reported KhaoSod. Oak’s aunt, 56 year old Somphit Nansribut was also in tears. “I want my nephew’s life back. I raised him since he was a baby. He worked hard, collecting rubber scraps and washing dishes to earn 10 to 20 baht, which he would spend on sweets and drinks for his mother. He didn’t even have a bicycle. His life was full of hardships and sorrow. It’s heartbreaking that his life ended because of these ruthless youths.” By Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-01 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Lopburi monkey mayhem: Biker crashes over stolen durian Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A Lopburi monkey caused chaos by leaping onto a motorcycle and snatching a bag of durian, leading to the rider crashing and sustaining injuries. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328854-lopburi-monkey-mayhem-biker-crashes-over-stolen-durian/

A Lopburi monkey caused chaos by leaping onto a motorcycle and snatching a bag of durian, leading to the rider crashing and sustaining injuries. The incident, captured on video, showed the monkey seizing the bag from a man riding past Phra Prang Sam Yot, resulting in the rider being bitten and requiring hospital treatment. Doctors indicated that the wounds were deep, necessitating daily injections to prevent infection. Krissada Kamthet was identified as the injured rider. The 37 year old Thai man sustained bite wounds on his left upper arm and right knee, which were treated and bandaged by medical staff. Krissada, who works for a motor oil company, shared that he commutes past Phra Prang Sam Yot daily after work. On this particular day, he had stopped to buy a pack of durian, costing 350 baht, to enjoy with his wife at home. Krissada narrated his ordeal, saying he had hung the durian on the left handlebar of his motorcycle. As he approached the Wisayachanchan Road intersection near the San Phra Kan shrine, traffic was congested due to an approaching train. With traffic slowing down, a large monkey from the sidewalk darted through the vehicles and jumped onto his motorcycle’s back seat. “I knew instantly that the monkey was after the durian.” Krissada attempted to clutch the durian bag to his chest, but the persistent monkey kept trying to snatch it even as the motorcycle moved. In the struggle, Krissada used his hand to fend off the monkey, but he was bitten on the arm, causing him to lose control and crash. Despite the crash, the monkey successfully grabbed the durian bag and shamelessly ate it in front of Krissada. “As a local of Lopburi, I thought I was cautious, but I still got caught off guard. I missed out on the durian and now have to deal with these injuries.” By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-01 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Airport's Resort-Like Features Impress London Couple - video Photo courtesy of The Thaiger A London-based couple were amazed by the remarkable architecture of an airport in Thailand. They shared their experience on TikTok under their shared account, @dcandkd. Their video, posted on March 26th, has garnered a significant number of views, currently standing at 146,900. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328688-thai-airports-resort-like-features-impress-london-couple-video/

A London-based couple were amazed by the remarkable architecture of an airport in Thailand. They shared their experience on TikTok under their shared account, @dcandkd. Their video, posted on March 26th, has garnered a significant number of views, currently standing at 146,900. The couple, 32-year-old content creator and songwriter Daniel, along with 27-year-old content creator and dancer Nakita, recorded their time at Koh Samui Airport. This airport, located on Thailand's east coast, absolutely astounded them. After spending two weeks on the island, they were heading to Bangkok and then back to London when they noticed the unique features of the airport. Their video showed an unusual airport, filled with green foliage, providing a relaxing environment for passengers on bean bags, sun loungers, and outdoor café tables. In the video, Daniel says, "Arriving in Koh Samui, you don't see the airport's beauty in as much detail as when you leave it. After checking in our luggage, we were struck by how stunning it was, with everything being outdoors." What left the biggest impression on the couple was the open-air setting and a scenic lake inside the departure area. They had never seen an airport designed like this, resembling a hotel resort. Nakita captured more unique features in the video, such as spots with bean bags amidst trees, outdoor café tables, a pathway surrounded by trees, and a quaint lake filled with lily pads. Daniel was visibly impressed. He described it as being, "Incredibly beautiful, it's like being in a hotel resort. This is the first time I've seen an airport like this". The cleanliness of the airport, the variety of shops, and the calm atmosphere particularly impressed them. They said, "You could unwind there the whole day. The ambiance is so calming that it doesn't feel like you're traveling. You're picked up in a buggy and transported to the plane, which was also spacious and clean." Photo courtesy of The Thaiger -- 2024-05-31 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

A Boy is Seriously Injured in an Attack at a Sisaket School File photo for reference only A 12-year-old boy was viciously assaulted by older schoolmates in Khun Han district, Sisaket province, after declining their demand to buy them cigarettes. The event has led to questions about student safety and intervention from education agencies. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328686-a-boy-is-seriously-injured-in-an-attack-at-a-sisaket-school/

A 12-year-old boy was viciously assaulted by older schoolmates in Khun Han district, Sisaket province, after declining their demand to buy them cigarettes. The event has led to questions about student safety and intervention from education agencies. Details of the occurrence, made public via a family member's Facebook post, reveal the child suffered severe injuries including a head wound and multiple cuts and bruises. Images revealed the boy donning a blood-drenched school uniform and visible injuries on his head. Speaking with the boy’s guardian, Wanana, during a visit to the village in Huai Chan subdistrict, the reporter learned that the victim, referred to as A, is a sixth grader. A narrated the horrific incident which occurred around 7 am, where an older male student along with a female student insisted that he buy cigarettes for them. Defying this demand led to an aggressive reaction from the duo who beat him in a school storage building. A voiced the details of the attack, describing how the older boy used a pencil sharpener blade to cut his arm and then burnt him with a cigarette in several parts of his body. He also mentioned being hit with a large chain by the older boy. The female student used a pipe to hit him on the forehead and smashed his head against a wall, causing a head wound. A managed to run away and was taken to Khun Han Hospital by his teachers. The traumatizing experience has left him too frightened to return to school, and he wishes to transfer to a different institution. The school has responded following the disturbing event, with the Deputy Director of the Sisaket Primary Educational Service Area Office 4, Yuttana Pornthip, granting financial support to A from a fund. He assured measures towards student safety improvement, which include installing CCTV cameras and cooperation from school inspectors and the community. Wanana disclosed that the boy had been attacked by older students before, getting beaten with a vine. Previously, she had not sought justice as the children involved were known to each other. However, this severe attack has pushed her to demand justice. She also noted that her nephew has started receiving support from various agencies, which has alleviated her worries. The local police station has set up a mediation session for June 2 to resolve the issue. She expressed that if the boy is not fairly treated, they might consider his transfer to a different school. File photo for reference only -- 2024-05-31 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Attacks by man with mental illness spreads fear among villagers File photo for reference only A young man with mental-health problems has been terrorizing a community in Nong Khai with violent behavior, including attacks on several people. One resident, 37-year-old Jirawan Srinok, told of an incident several days ago where she was unexpectedly attacked at the local market. Jirawan escaped serious injury but fears for her safety and the safety of others in the community. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328685-attacks-by-man-with-mental-illness-spreads-fear-among-villagers/

A young man with mental-health problems has been terrorizing a community in Nong Khai with violent behavior, including attacks on several people. One resident, 37-year-old Jirawan Srinok, told of an incident several days ago where she was unexpectedly attacked at the local market. Jirawan escaped serious injury but fears for her safety and the safety of others in the community. The young man, known as Anan, is a familiar figure in the local area and has struggled with mental health issues for the past decade. His mother, 50 year-old Maliwan, explained that Anan's condition began due to long-term substance abuse starting from when he was in primary school. Attempts to get treatment for Anan at various medical facilities have been hindered by the family's lack of funds. Each treatment session costs 600 baht per day - a figure beyond the financial resources of Anan’s family. Jirawan is calling on local authorities and appropriate organizations to intervene and provide necessary treatment to Anan as his violent behavior is a serious threat to community safety. Anan himself confessed to carrying out the attacks when approached by Veerapol Raksamoe, an admin from the Ban Dung Update page. He attributed his acts to a state of drunkenness, often prompted by feelings of being overwhelmed and turning to alcohol to cope. Anan’s mother, Maliwan, expressed despair over the situation and appealed for government assistance to help her son receive the required treatment to hopefully, one day, lead a normal life. File photo for reference only -- 2024-05-31 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

SRT tears down buildings in Nakhon Ratchasima to make way for high-speed railway File photo for reference only The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) is moving forward with a high-speed rail project, tearing down buildings in a controversial area in Nakhon Ratchasima. The only building still standing is one where a compensation claim is yet to be resolved. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328683-srt-tears-down-buildings-in-nakhon-ratchasima-to-make-way-for-high-speed-railway/

The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) is moving forward with a high-speed rail project, tearing down buildings in a controversial area in Nakhon Ratchasima. The only building still standing is one where a compensation claim is yet to be resolved. Demolition began today in the Mueang district to make way for the railway project, which has been the subject of local disputes. Most of the commercial buildings near the Nakhon Ratchasima Railway Station on Muk Montri Road have been knocked down apart from one. This building still stands as it awaits a court decision regarding compensation requested by the tenant. The rail project has been adjusted to meet public demands. People living in the Krok Kruat Subdistrict and Ban Mai Subdistrict, in the Mueang District, were worried that the original plan to elevate an embankment for the railway track would cause floods and disrupt local travel. After ongoing protests and talks since 2019, the SRT has agreed to change the design. They are now set to replace the elevated embankment with pillars, which will ease the local residents' worries. Ban Mai Subdistrict's representative, Praphot Thammaprateep, has said the new design will prevent the expected flood and transport problems. The cabinet is currently reviewing the budget for the changed design, but Praphot is confident that the SRT will stick to the amended plan without any more changes. This is great news for locals who've been protesting for a plan that will have less of an impact on their lives, according to Khaosod. The high-speed rail project is part of a wider aim to modernise Thailand's transport infrastructure. The project has faced many setbacks because of disagreements over land use and compensation. The planned high-speed rail system should boost connectivity and economic growth. But the importance of community involvement in big infrastructure projects is still essential. Though progress has been made, resolving all disputes, especially those around compensation, is still a work in progress. File photo for reference only -- 2024-05-31 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Homeless Couple in Khon Kaen Penalized for Having Sex in Public File photo for reference only A homeless couple has been fined by police in Isaan province of Khon Kaen, following a viral video displaying their public sexual activity. The video, proliferating on Thai social media, showed the couple engaged in sexual acts on a roadside wooden bench on Lao Nadee 12 Road. The incident happened at around 9 pm on May 28. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328681-homeless-couple-in-khon-kaen-penalized-for-having-sex-in-public/

A homeless couple has been fined by police in Isaan province of Khon Kaen, following a viral video displaying their public sexual activity. The video, proliferating on Thai social media, showed the couple engaged in sexual acts on a roadside wooden bench on Lao Nadee 12 Road. The incident happened at around 9 pm on May 28. The couple, who reportedly live near the local train station, were captured on further CCTV footage having a brief conversation before their sexual encounter. There has been a strong public reaction demanding the Mueang Khon Kaen Police Station and other authorities take action to punish the pair and implement more rigorous measures to prevent such incidents. Following an investigation, the police arrested Jumphon Nuandee, the homeless man involved, on May 30. During questioning, he confessed to having sex with the 40-year-old homeless woman named Eat. Jumphon stated that he gave her 200 baht, which he earned from work, in exchange for sex and added they were not in a relationship and had since split up. Jumphon argued that their public sexual activity resulted from being denied entry by a hotel and a room rental business. Eat, who was arrested on May 31, also admitted to her role in the incident. The couple were accused under Section 388 of the Criminal law, dealing with committing obscene acts or indecent exposure in public places. The law imposes a penalty of up to 5,000 baht. However, the officers have not disclosed the exact amount the couple was fined. photo via Khon Kaen Link -- 2024-05-31 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai man stabbed by his girlfriend's ex-boyfriend, who then flees with the woman Photo courtesy of The Thaiger A Thai man was stabbed by his girlfriend's former boyfriend in a condo in Bangkok, Thailand. The perpetrator fled, taking the victim's girlfriend with him to the central province of Chainart. Thanawat Phontaecha, the 21-year-old victim, appealed to the non-profit group Saimai Survive to pursue a case on his behalf after the attacker, known only as Chang, failed to surrender to the police twice. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328680-thai-man-stabbed-by-his-girlfriends-ex-boyfriend-who-then-flees-with-the-woman/

A Thai man was stabbed by his girlfriend's former boyfriend in a condo in Bangkok, Thailand. The perpetrator fled, taking the victim's girlfriend with him to the central province of Chainart. Thanawat Phontaecha, the 21-year-old victim, appealed to the non-profit group Saimai Survive to pursue a case on his behalf after the attacker, known only as Chang, failed to surrender to the police twice. Thanawat explained at a press conference on May 30 that the incident happened in the early hours of May 25. He and his girlfriend quarreled about her dressing style. Subsequently, his girlfriend decided to end their relationship and move out of his condo. Helping her to move out was a transgender friend of hers and her ex-boyfriend, Chang. Chang carried a knife, which prompted Thanawat to defend himself. The resulting fight led to Chang stabbing Thanawat in the shoulder, wrist and stomach. Chang escaped the scene on a motorbike while Thanawat was taken to the hospital by his girlfriend and her friend. Thanawat received nine stitches, four and five at his shoulder and wrist respectively. The stab wound in his stomach put him at risk of kidney failure. Despite Thanawat filing a police complaint, Chang managed to evade law enforcement officers and fled to his home province with Thanawat's girlfriend. Thanawat, fearing for his safety, and wanting Chang arrested urgently, sought assistance from Saimai Survive. Even in a situation where his girlfriend wanted to reconcile, Thanawat stated he would end their relationship. He also stated he had spoken to Chang's father, who promised to convince his son to surrender, but Chang has not yet complied. Photo courtesy of The Thaiger -- 2024-05-31 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Rayong beach’s dark waters leave a foul odor but no fishy business Image courtesy of Khaosod The Thai police investigated the appearance of black water at a beach in Rayong, finding a foul odour but no dead marine life. It is suspected that wastewater flowed into the sea following heavy rain over the past week. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328679-rayong-beach’s-dark-waters-leave-a-foul-odor-but-no-fishy-business/

The Thai police investigated the appearance of black water at a beach in Rayong, finding a foul odour but no dead marine life. It is suspected that wastewater flowed into the sea following heavy rain over the past week. The Department of Marine and Coastal Resources, along with the Eastern Gulf of Thailand Marine and Coastal Resources Research Center and the Rayong Marine and Coastal Resources Office, conducted an environmental quality inspection at the site. The investigation focused on the water quality at Mae Ram Phueng Beach, situated in Taphong Subdistrict, Mueang Rayong District. Locals reported seeing black water flowing into the sea since heavy rainfall started about a week ago. Preliminary surveys confirmed the presence of black water at the Huaro Canal and Namwa Canal, which discharge into Mae Ram Phueng Beach. The water had a foul odour, but no dead marine life was discovered. At the shoreline, the seawater appeared normal. Water quality tests showed pH levels ranging from 6.57 to 8.15, temperatures between 32 and 34.0 degrees Celcius, salinity from 0.2 to 29.6 parts per thousand, and dissolved oxygen levels from 0.95 to 6.84 milligrammes per litre, which mostly met recreational standards except for lower dissolved oxygen levels at the canal mouths. A representative from the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources suspects that the black water is wastewater flowing into the sea, likely from the accumulation of natural plant debris resulting from recent heavy rainfall that raised canal water levels, carrying the wastewater to the beach. The authorities have yet to provide a detailed analysis of the nutrient content of the water, but they are expected to report the findings in due course, reported Khaosod. By Ryan Turner Image courtesy of Khaosod Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-31 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand leads in fresh durian exports to China, 121 tonnes by April Image courtesy of Khaosod Thailand firmly established itself as the top exporter of fresh durians to China, with over 121,398 tonnes shipped in 2024, according to Global Trade Atlas (GTA) data. Additionally, mango exports to South Korea have surged, influenced by favourable trade agreements. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328678-thailand-leads-in-fresh-durian-exports-to-china-121-tonnes-by-april/

Thailand firmly established itself as the top exporter of fresh durians to China, with over 121,398 tonnes shipped in 2024, according to Global Trade Atlas (GTA) data. Additionally, mango exports to South Korea have surged, influenced by favourable trade agreements. Government spokesperson Chai Wacharong announced that Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce revealed new data showing the country exported fresh durians to China, totalling over 121,398 tonnes, valued at US$717 million (26.3 billion baht). This figure surpasses Vietnam’s exports of 79,186 tonnes, valued at US$369 million, placing Thailand at the forefront of durian exports to China. Data from the Customs Department indicates that from January to April 2024, Thailand exported more than 225,204 tonnes of fresh durians. This growth trend is expected to continue due to sustained demand and increased production. Chai expressed confidence that Thailand would maintain its leading position in fresh durian exports to China, citing the continuous demand and proactive efforts by Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, who is aggressively seeking new markets in secondary Chinese cities. These proactive measures have resulted in Thailand’s return to the top spot in China’s durian market. The average export price of Thai durians has risen to 216 baht per kilogramme, compared to the previous year. In addition to the impressive durian export statistics, Thailand’s mango exports to South Korea have also seen significant growth. Fruit shortage The Republic of Korea temporarily waived import duties on Thai mangoes, coupled with a domestic fruit shortage, leading to a staggering 230% increase in mango exports to South Korea. The Thai government, through the Ministry of Commerce, continues to push for permanent tariff reductions on Thai mangoes in South Korea. Currently, import duties range between 24% and 30%. Through the Thailand-Korea Free Trade Agreement (FTA), negotiations for the first round are expected to commence by mid-2024, with the aim of concluding by the end of 2025 or early 2026. Successful negotiations would further benefit Thai exports. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has directed related agencies to adopt a proactive approach, with clear operational strategies, to assess and address any shortcomings. The goal is to adapt strategies to current situations and promote Thailand as a global hub for agriculture and food. Chai emphasized that the numbers clearly show Thailand’s significant export lead over the second-ranked country. This proactive and strategic approach aims to bolster Thailand’s position in the global agricultural and food market, ensuring sustained growth and international trade benefits for the country, reported Khaosod. By Ryan Turner Image courtesy of Khaosod Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-31 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Toll fees waived on three expressways to honour Queen’s birthday Image courtesy of Khaosod Toll fees will be waived on three expressways to commemorate the Queen’s birthday. The Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT), along with Bangkok Expressway and Metro Public Company Limited (BEM) and Northern Bangkok Expressway Company Limited (NECL), have announced this special exemption. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328677-toll-fees-waived-on-three-expressways-to-honour-queen’s-birthday/

Toll fees will be waived on three expressways to commemorate the Queen’s birthday. The Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT), along with Bangkok Expressway and Metro Public Company Limited (BEM) and Northern Bangkok Expressway Company Limited (NECL), have announced this special exemption. The announcement, made yesterday, specifies that the toll-free access is in honour of the Queen’s birthday on June 3. This initiative aims to facilitate smoother traffic flow and provide convenience to the public. The expressways included in the toll waiver are Chalerm Maha Nakhon, Si Rat, and Udon Ratthaya. The Chaloem Maha Nakhon Expressway, also known as the First Stage Expressway, is a vital route that helps decongest traffic in Bangkok’s central areas. The Sirat Expressway, part of the Second Stage Expressway System, serves as another critical route connecting various parts of the city. Udon Ratthaya Expressway, often referred to as the North Eastern Line, links Bangkok with the northern regions, easing transportation for commuters and long-distance travellers alike. In addition to the toll waiver, there will be increased monitoring and traffic management to handle the expected surge in road users. Extra personnel will be deployed to assist with traffic flow and provide support where needed. This comprehensive approach is designed to maximise the benefits of the toll-free day, ensuring it runs smoothly and effectively while alleviating one of the common stressors for drivers, toll fees. As preparations for the Queen’s birthday celebrations continue, the toll-free day on these three expressways stands out as a practical and symbolic gesture of respect and gratitude. It underscores the importance of the occasion and the commitment of Thai authorities to public welfare and road safety. Ultimately, the toll-free day is more than just a financial reprieve; it is a call to action for safer, more responsible driving. By focusing on these principles, Thai authorities hope to foster a culture of respect and caution on the roads, making every journey a safer one. By Nattapong Westwood Image courtesy of Khaosod Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-31 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Taxing times: Tourism Minister stands firm with 300 baht tourist tax Image courtesy of Thai Enquirer / X In a recent press conference, Thailand’s new Tourism and Sports Minister, Sermsak Pongpanich, hinted at the impending introduction of a tourist tax, known as the Kha Yeap Pan Din, translating to a landing fee. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328676-taxing-times-tourism-minister-stands-firm-with-300-baht-tourist-tax/

In a recent press conference, Thailand’s new Tourism and Sports Minister, Sermsak Pongpanich, hinted at the impending introduction of a tourist tax, known as the Kha Yeap Pan Din, translating to a landing fee. Although no specific timeline was provided for its implementation, the newly-appointed minister emphasised the unlikelihood of abandoning the proposed tax. Sermsak, formerly the Culture Minister, assumed the Tourism and Sports portfolio during last month’s Cabinet reshuffle. The measure was greenlit by the Cabinet in February last year, proposing a fee of 300 baht (US$8.17) for foreign arrivals by air and 150 baht for those entering by land or sea. Speaking at an event organised by the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) to promote sustainable tourism, Sermsak affirmed the government’s commitment to the tax. “I have received the principle of the measure and [the ministry] is considering the implementation process. We already have people working on it.” The Bangkok-born Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin previously advocated for a delay in fee collection to prevent any interference with the government’s current tourism promotion. When initially proposed in late 2022 by former Tourism Minister Phipat Ratchakitprakarn, the revenue from the tourist tax was earmarked for foreigner insurance and bolstering the tourism development fund, aimed at enhancing accessibility and facilities at tourist sites. Addressing his priorities as the new tourism minister, Sermsak outlined plans to enhance tourism infrastructure and promote lesser-known attractions, including recently unearthed ancient sites and UNESCO World Heritage sites. “The ministry will launch special programs to promote these places to attract foreign visitors.” Citing the deficiency in comprehensive tourism infrastructure as a longstanding impediment to industry growth, Sermsak referenced the World Economic Forum’s Travel & Tourism Development Index 2024, which saw Thailand drop six spots to 47th among 119 countries compared to pre-pandemic rankings. With three years remaining in the current government’s term, Sermsak expressed determination to elevate Thailand’s position on the index, aligning with the administration’s objective of positioning the country as a regional hub for aviation and tourism, reported The Nation. By Ryan Turner Image courtesy of Thai Enquirer / X Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-31 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe