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Other provinces demand extended nightlife hours too PHOTO: Flickr/Eustaquio Santimano What about us?! With nightlife venues in Phuket, Chon Buri, Bangkok and Chiang Mai being granted extended opening hours, other provinces want to do the same. From December 15, bars and clubs in 4 popular tourism provinces can remain open until 4am (previously 2am) for a trial period. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1311384-other-provinces-demand-extended-nightlife-hours-too/

What about us?! With nightlife venues in Phuket, Chon Buri, Bangkok and Chiang Mai being granted extended opening hours, other provinces want to do the same. From December 15, bars and clubs in 4 popular tourism provinces can remain open until 4am (previously 2am) for a trial period. The move is one of several introduced by PM Srettha Thavisin, in a bid to boost Thailand’s economy and the tourism sector. It is not yet known how long the trial will last and if or when it will be extended nationwide. Nightlife operator Pichanont Ingprasarn, who co-owns a number of venues in the eastern provinces of Trat, Chanthaburi and Rayong, says he’s hopeful the government will extend the later hours to other parts of the country, if it proves to be advantageous for tourism and the economy. By Peter Roche Caption: PHOTO: Flickr/Eustaquio Santimano Full story: Phuket GO 2023-11-06 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai man arrested in Japan after fatal stabbing in Yokohama PHOTO: Mainichi/Mayu Miyamoto A Thai man has been arrested in Japan, following a stabbing incident in the city of Yokohama, in which one person died. A 53 year old restaurant worker, named as Rungroj Kwankitsarot, and confirmed to be a Thai national, has been arrested on suspicion of murder. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1311383-thai-man-arrested-in-japan-after-fatal-stabbing-in-yokohama/

A Thai man has been arrested in Japan, following a stabbing incident in the city of Yokohama, in which one person died. A 53 year old restaurant worker, named as Rungroj Kwankitsarot, and confirmed to be a Thai national, has been arrested on suspicion of murder. Two other victims were injured in the stabbing incident, according to the report. Rungroj is accused of stabbing the dead man in the right side of his chest while on the street near his workplace. The Thai man denies the allegations, insisting he was in the restaurant kitchen at the time. It’s understood the dead man was with 4 companions at the time of the attack, two of whom were injured and are being treated in hospital. By Peter Roche Caption: PHOTO: Mainichi/Mayu Miyamoto Full story: Phuket GO 2023-11-06 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Mae Hong Son Launches Bua Tong Festival Amidst Sunflower Bloom MAE HONG SON (NNT) - Mae Hong Son Province is gearing up for the grand opening of its tourist season with the Bua Tong sunflower fields on Doi Mae U Kho mountain set to become the centerpiece attraction. The natural event will be celebrated with the annual Bua Tong Festival starting on November 11, in the Khun Yuam district. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1311382-mae-hong-son-launches-bua-tong-festival-amidst-sunflower-bloom/

MAE HONG SON (NNT) - Mae Hong Son Province is gearing up for the grand opening of its tourist season with the Bua Tong sunflower fields on Doi Mae U Kho mountain set to become the centerpiece attraction. The natural event will be celebrated with the annual Bua Tong Festival starting on November 11, in the Khun Yuam district. The fields, known for their stunning Mexican sunflowers, are beginning to show signs of life with approximately 10% of the flowers already in bloom. The early blossoms have draped a portion of the mountainside in bright yellow, a precursor to the full spectacle that draws an estimated 100,000 visitors each year. Local authorities, in partnership with the private sector, are planning a ceremonial event to mark the beginning of the festival. It serves not only as a magnet for tourists but also as a platform for local artisans to showcase and sell products under the OTOP initiative, which stands for One Tambon One Product, a local entrepreneurship stimulus program. With the sunflower bloom period stretching through November to December, the expansive 1.6 million square meter area transforms into a vibrant yellow sea of flowers, positioning it as a sought-after destination for both domestic and international visitors during the cooler season months. By Krajangwit Johjit Full story: NNT 2023-11-06 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Ayutthaya Proposed as New Logistics Hub Amid Rail Expansion BANGKOK (NNT) - Thailand’s Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry, and Banking (JSCCIB) has proposed that Ayutthaya be developed into a new logistics hub to complement the region’s growing investment, particularly with the advancement of the Thai-Sino high-speed rail system. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1311381-ayutthaya-proposed-as-new-logistics-hub-amid-rail-expansion/

BANGKOK (NNT) - Thailand’s Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry, and Banking (JSCCIB) has proposed that Ayutthaya be developed into a new logistics hub to complement the region’s growing investment, particularly with the advancement of the Thai-Sino high-speed rail system. The committee envisions leveraging Ayutthaya’s existing transportation network, including its rail, road, and river connections and suggests establishing a dry port to enhance the province’s economic value. Ayutthaya, recognized for its historic sites as a Unesco World Heritage city, could face transformative development with the high-speed rail link that extends from Bangkok to Nakhon Ratchasima. The rail, budgeted at 179 billion baht, skirts the ancient city and raises concerns over the impact on its World Heritage status. The business community has voiced a preference for relocating the high-speed train station to Ban Ma sub-district, which they argue is suitably distanced from the historic sites and has adequate space for a logistics and distribution center. The province, which hosts five major industrial estates specializing in various sectors including automotive, electronics, and food processing, contributes significantly to the regional economy, with industries representing 70% of Ayutthaya’s GDP—the workforce in these sectors numbers 330,000. The lure of Ayutthaya as an investment destination is substantiated by interest from Chinese investors, especially in the food processing sector, with reports of substantial land acquisitions for business ventures. By Krajangwit Johjit Full story: Thai News Agency 2023-11-06 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Govt Slashes Visa Fees for Migrant Workers BANGKOK, Nov 6 (TNA) – Thailand reduces visa application and extension fees for foreign workers from Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam to 500 baht, effective from Nov 11. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1311380-govt-slashes-visa-fees-for-migrant-workers/

BANGKOK, Nov 6 (TNA) – Thailand reduces visa application and extension fees for foreign workers from Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam to 500 baht, effective from Nov 11. Mr. Somchai Marakotsriwan, the acting director-general of the Department of Employment said the fee reduction was announced in the Royal Gazette on Oct 27 and will be put into effect for four years. The visa application fee will be cut to from 2,000 baht to 500 baht (valid for two years) and the visa extension fee will be reduced from 1,900 baht to 500 baht (valid for two years). Full story: Thai News Agency 2023-11-06 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Teens Warned about Safe Sex as HIV Infections Rise BANGKOK, Nov 6 (TNA) – The Health Department is urging teenagers to be aware of safe sex practices and the prevention of both pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) as the prevalence of HIV infection among teenagers increases. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1311379-teens-warned-about-safe-sex-as-hiv-infections-rise/

BANGKOK, Nov 6 (TNA) – The Health Department is urging teenagers to be aware of safe sex practices and the prevention of both pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) as the prevalence of HIV infection among teenagers increases. Dr. Achara Nitiapinyasakul, the acting director-general of the Health Department, revealed that the situation of HIV and STI infections is on the rise among the youth. According to data from the Disease Control Department, it is estimated that in the year 2022, approximately 9,230 new HIV infections occurred, with nearly half of them falling within the age group of 15-24 years. Full story: Thai News Agency 2023-11-06 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Deputy Police Chief Flies to Assist 164 Thais Stranded in Myanmar BANGKOK, Nov 6 (TNA) – Deputy national police chief Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn on Monday left for Yangon to coordinate with Myanmar authorities in facilitating the repatriation of 164 Thai nationals. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1311378-deputy-police-chief-flies-to-assist-164-thais-stranded-in-myanmar/

BANGKOK, Nov 6 (TNA) – Deputy national police chief Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn on Monday left for Yangon to coordinate with Myanmar authorities in facilitating the repatriation of 164 Thai nationals. They have been trapped in China-Myanmar border town of Laukkaing following a conflict between Myanmar troops and ethnic armed groups. After that, he will go to a camp, where the Thai nationals have been sheltered to screen them. Full story: Thai News Agency 2023-11-06 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Diversity Ambassadors: Thai Diplomat Opens Up About LGBTQ+ Experience On the global stage, Thailand is often perceived as a bastion of transgender progressivism. There are many visible examples of transgender women in Thai pop culture, including Thai film and television as well as the Miss Tiffany’s Universe and Miss International Queen transgender beauty pageants. In 2019, Tanwarin Sukkhapisit became the first openly transgender member of Parliament. Thailand is also a leading destination for sex reassignment surgery due to a number of reasons, which include the relative openness, tolerance, and inclusiveness that characterizes Thai society. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1311377-diversity-ambassadors-thai-diplomat-opens-up-about-lgbtq-experience/

On the global stage, Thailand is often perceived as a bastion of transgender progressivism. There are many visible examples of transgender women in Thai pop culture, including Thai film and television as well as the Miss Tiffany’s Universe and Miss International Queen transgender beauty pageants. In 2019, Tanwarin Sukkhapisit became the first openly transgender member of Parliament. Thailand is also a leading destination for sex reassignment surgery due to a number of reasons, which include the relative openness, tolerance, and inclusiveness that characterizes Thai society. To shine a light on the experience of LGBTQ+ individuals in other spheres of Thai society, we spoke with Siratan “Dew” Sititanyawat, a transgender diplomat in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA). In this interview, we follow her career to learn what it’s really like to be a transgender woman in perhaps the most conservative sphere of Thai society: its government. To shine a light on the experience of LGBTQ+ individuals in other spheres of Thai society, we spoke with Siratan “Dew” Sititanyawat, a transgender diplomat in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA). In this interview, we follow her career to learn what it’s really like to be a transgender woman in perhaps the most conservative sphere of Thai society: its government. Earlier career experiences Dew mentioned that before joining the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, she was a student intern at a government agency and dressed in her female student uniform. However, she was chided for violating regulations and asked to dress according to her assigned gender. This made her uncomfortable because such regulations were not clear on this matter. However, the next day, the internship supervisor spoke with her and explained that she was free to dress according to her gender identity because there were no specific regulations stating otherwise. The supervisor further speculated that the staff who had rebuked her might have done so out of fear of her superiors. Nevertheless, this obstacle did not deter Dew from pursuing work in the government sector. The hiring process Dew revealed that before passing the entrance exam to become a diplomat, she considered cutting her hair short to appear more masculine. She mused that while she was stressing out, other applicants were preparing for the interview without worrying about the gender of their appearance. Dew decided that she shouldn’t have to pretend to be someone she’s not and chose to dress according to her gender identity for the interview. In the interview room, she was asked, “Is Thailand ready for LGBTQ+ diplomats?” “We’re ready,” she replied, asserting that Thailand is a diverse country with a significant LGBTQ+ community, and if a country’s diplomat represents its people, having a transgender diplomat would not be unusual. “Moreover, Thailand having openly LGBTQ+ diplomats can lend greater weight to its efforts to advance matters related to diversity and gender equality,” she said. Dew believes that her answer was part of what helped her pass the selection process and secure a position as a practicing diplomat. Expectations vs. reality At first, the reality of working at the MFA was slightly different from her expectations. There was uncertainty on both sides about how best to proceed in the most appropriate way, and at the start of her tenure, she dressed according to her assigned gender to avoid any potential conflicts. Later, however, the Ministry’s HR office informed her that she needn’t conform to her assigned gender but simply respect the context of the time and place, freeing her to dress according to her gender identity. Dew said that for civil servants in the past (as well as certain places in the present), obstacles related to dress code and self-expression weren’t unique to transgender individuals and were experienced by both cisgender men and women. For example, some considered it inappropriate for women to wear trousers to work, for men to wear pink, or to dye one’s hair in certain colors. Nevertheless, Dew feels that these restrictions are softening and sees continued progress as Thai society becomes more inclusive and respectful of diversity. Working as a diplomat Currently, Dew serves in the MFA’s Policy and Planning Bureau and is responsible for coordinating public relations and administrative work for the MFA’s human rights agenda, including delivering humanitarian assistance to Ukraine, Sudan, and Myanmar. She has also been involved in significant international conferences held in Thailand in the past year, including the 2022 APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting. One crucial aspect of working as a diplomat is communication. When communicating with counterparts, it’s necessary to use certain pronouns. For Dew, she often recommends that her dialogue partners refer to her by her name or use female pronouns (she/her) when communicating with foreigners. However, Dew also emphasized that she doesn’t feel uncomfortable when being referred to with male pronouns (he/him) because she is confident in her identity and is not concerned with how others define her. When asked about her involvement with different projects at the ministry, Dew said she was most impressed by Cobra Gold, a joint military exercise involving more than 7,000 military personnel from 30 countries held annually in Thailand. As a transgender individual, she’d never expected to participate alongside the soldiers in a three-day training program for humanitarian affairs. She distinctly remembered that all the male soldiers showed her great respect throughout the training period. Accepting her identity as “enough” When asked if she’d like to say anything to her friends in the LGBTQ+ community, Dew recalls an oft-repeated saying whenever someone comes out: “You can be whatever you want to be; as long as you’re a good person, that’s enough.” Dew hopes that everyone will reflect on this expression and ask themselves if LGBTQ+ individuals need to prove themselves by doing good deeds, getting high grades, or working harder than cisgender people. She believes that everyone, regardless of their gender or sexual orientation, should be accepted and respected for who they are. She asserts that in fact, “It’s enough to be yourself” would be more appropriate because it emphasizes self-respect and mutual respect as the basis for one’s rights and responsibilities. This is what has allowed Dew to become a successful diplomat and follow her dreams. Full story: THAILAND NOW 2023-11-06 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Combats Violence Against Women and Children BANGKOK (NNT) - November has been designated as a month to focus on eradicating violence against children, women, and families in Thailand. Social Development and Human Security Minister Varawut Silpa-archa made clear the importance of ending all domestic violence, urging the public to report incidents to the ministry’s 24/7 hotline or Line account. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1311375-thailand-combats-violence-against-women-and-children/

BANGKOK (NNT) - November has been designated as a month to focus on eradicating violence against children, women, and families in Thailand. Social Development and Human Security Minister Varawut Silpa-archa made clear the importance of ending all domestic violence, urging the public to report incidents to the ministry’s 24/7 hotline or Line account. Incidents of violence have markedly increased according to the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (MSDHS), with over 4,000 cases reported this fiscal year, up from the previous year’s 2,493. A significant majority of the victims were female, and violence occurred predominantly in domestic settings. In an effort to curb the violence, the Royal Thai Police have introduced platforms to support victims, with a focus on adolescents who show early signs of aggression due to various stressors. With specialized psychiatric support and shelters available, the police aim to offer refuge and mental care for those affected. ThaiHealth is also playing a role by addressing the digital aspect of children’s lives, noting the widespread access to digital devices among Thai children and the associated risks of cyberbullying and online threats. The organization is working towards enhancing digital literacy and safe internet usage. The increase in violence and the rise in psychiatric cases among the young population have prompted calls for a balanced legal approach that considers the offenders’ age and the severity of their actions. Meanwhile, efforts are also underway to create safe zones for children and to educate them on valuing self-esteem over material attachments. By: Krajangwit Johjit Full story: NNT 2023-11-06 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Cracks Down on Illegal Employment in South Korea BANGKOK (NNT) - The Ministry of Labor is intensifying efforts to tackle the issue of Thai nationals working illegally in South Korea, a situation that has led to a public backlash and calls to ban travel to Korea. The recent social media outcry saw hashtags criticizing Korean immigration surge in popularity. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1311374-thailand-cracks-down-on-illegal-employment-in-south-korea/

BANGKOK (NNT) - The Ministry of Labor is intensifying efforts to tackle the issue of Thai nationals working illegally in South Korea, a situation that has led to a public backlash and calls to ban travel to Korea. The recent social media outcry saw hashtags criticizing Korean immigration surge in popularity. Labor Minister Phipat Ratchakitprakarn has initiated a partnership with the Thai Travel Agents Association to prevent tour operators from being complicit in illegal employment activities. It is estimated that over 100,000 Thais are working unlawfully in South Korea, surpassing the number of legally employed Thai workers. The illegal workforce often referred to colloquially as "little ghosts," is accused of violating the bilateral agreement with South Korea by overstaying tourist visas to seek employment. To combat this, the ministry has established specialized teams at major Thai airports to deter and intercept potential illegal workers from traveling to South Korea. The Labor Ministry is also working closely with the Korea Immigration Service to share information and is actively targeting recruitment agencies that encourage illegal employment through online platforms. By Krajangwit Johjit Full story: NNT 2023-11-06 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Triathletes Set for Hong Kong Triathlon Showdown BANGKOK (NNT) - Thirty-three Thai triathletes have successfully qualified for the upcoming Asia Triathlon Cup and Asia Triathlon Youth Championship in Hong Kong, scheduled for November 19. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1311373-thai-triathletes-set-for-hong-kong-triathlon-showdown/

BANGKOK (NNT) - Thirty-three Thai triathletes have successfully qualified for the upcoming Asia Triathlon Cup and Asia Triathlon Youth Championship in Hong Kong, scheduled for November 19. The contingent was selected after rigorous trials conducted by the Thailand Triathlon Federation earlier in August, where competitors from across the nation vied for a chance to represent their country. These athletes are set to challenge participants from 17 countries in a test of endurance and skill. The Asia Triathlon Cup 2023, a major event in the triathlon calendar, will see the elite category athletes undertake a grueling 750m swim, a 20km cycle, followed by a 5km run. The Youth/U15 segment will involve a 375m swim, a 10km cycle, and a 2.5km run, catering to the younger talent pool. For the TriKids category, the young athletes will compete in a 275m swim, a 7.2km bike ride, and a 1.5km run. By Krajangwit Johjit Full story: NNT 2023-11-06 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

New minimum wages to come into force by New Year New minimum wages for Thailand will be announced in December, but the rates will be less than 400 baht per day, Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn said Monday. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1311372-new-minimum-wages-to-come-into-force-by-new-year/

New minimum wages for Thailand will be announced in December, but the rates will be less than 400 baht per day, Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn said Monday. He said that the new wages will vary from one province to another, depending on the economic situation and cost of living in each. Since October 1st, 2022, there have been nine minimum wage rates in the 77 provinces. The highest are 354 baht/day in Phuket, Rayong and Chon Buri and 353 baht/day in Bangkok, Nonthaburi, Pathum Thani, Nakhon Pathom, Samut Prakan and Samut Sakhon. In the rest of the country, the minimum wage ranges from 338 baht to 345 baht. Full story: Thai PBS 2023-11-06 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Sacked Move Forward MP claims he is a victim of internal party politics Move Forward MP for Prachin Buri, Wuttiphong Thonglour, claimed today that he was a victim of internal politics, after he had tried to expose alleged corruption by an assistant to an executive committee member. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1311371-sacked-move-forward-mp-claims-he-is-a-victim-of-internal-party-politics/