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BANGKOK (NNT) - In a recent meeting of the Move Forward Party, members of parliament (MPs) from various districts were instructed to visit their local constituencies and gather public opinions on the prime ministerial voting process. Pakamon Noon-anan, a party-list MP and deputy spokesperson of the Move Forward Party, revealed that the discussions during Tuesday’s (8 Aug) executive committee and meeting of party MPs did not cover the topic of the voting of the next prime minister. However, district MPs were instructed to collect public opinions on the vote and the party’s stance, as no consensus would be reached without the voice of the people. In related developments, Move Forward deputy leader Pol Maj Gen Supisan Pakdeenaruenart said a proposal may be submitted at the next parliamentary meeting to support the Pheu Thai Party, even as it would mean placing Move Forward in opposition. However, Pakamon clarified that the opinion remains the personal view of Supisan and has not yet been discussed at the executive committee meeting. Pakamon also dismissed claims that supporting Pheu Thai without joining its planned coalition would be akin to shutting down Move Forward. She insisted such a move would be unacceptable, as it would represent a collapse of the election process. She added that the situation with the Pheu Thai Party and the political environment must be further assessed. In addition, the Move Forward Party plans to propose to Parliament several amendments of laws, revolving around such topics as local decentralization, anti-corruption measures, and embracing diversity for a total of 9 draft laws. By Paul Rujopakarn Source: https://thainews.prd.go.th/en/news/detail/TCATG230809143346201 -- © Copyright NNT 2023-08-09 - 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.

Cabinet Extends Deadline for Foreign Work Permits BANGKOK (NNT) - In a press conference following Tuesday’s (8 Aug) Cabinet meeting, Prime Minister Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha announced that the period for a certain group of foreign laborers to stay employed in Thailand without a work permit would be extended until September 30. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1303068-cabinet-extends-deadline-for-foreign-work-permits/

Weak Exports Pose Challenge for Thai Economic Recovery BANGKOK (NNT) - Thailand’s economic recovery, primarily buoyed by tourism and domestic consumption, faces a potential setback as the Bank of Thailand (BOT) suggests a necessary downward revision of growth forecasts due to weak export performance this year. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1303067-weak-exports-pose-challenge-for-thai-economic-recovery/

BANGKOK (NNT) - In a press conference following Tuesday’s (8 Aug) Cabinet meeting, Prime Minister Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha announced that the period for a certain group of foreign laborers to stay employed in Thailand without a work permit would be extended until September 30. The original deadline for the measure was July 31. This latest extension aims to ensure that foreign workers can continue to work, while preventing businesses from facing labor shortages. Prior to this week’s Cabinet meeting, several government units had presented their work progress, including advances in areas such as village funds, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and public health. These achievements have been deemed successful implementations of government policy in their respective areas. Gen Prayut also emphasized the government’s continued focus on the national land policy committee’s allocation of agricultural land to the people. He stressed that everything must be handled legally, whether leasing agricultural land or allowing it to be passed on to descendants, warning officials that failing to do so would lead to future problems. The premier further noted that there have been many positive developments in the country, and urged citizens to be aware of such developments. By Paul Rujopakarn Source: https://thainews.prd.go.th/en/news/detail/TCATG230809142609192 -- © Copyright NNT 2023-08-09 - 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.

BANGKOK (NNT) - Thailand’s economic recovery, primarily buoyed by tourism and domestic consumption, faces a potential setback as the Bank of Thailand (BOT) suggests a necessary downward revision of growth forecasts due to weak export performance this year. BOT Governor Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput conveyed this sentiment during a central bank seminar. The initial growth projection of 3.6% now seems likely to be adjusted downward to the mid-3% range for the current year amid noticeable deceleration in economic momentum. The central bank’s May forecast had previously held steady at a growth rate of 3.6% for this year and 3.8% for the subsequent year. However, the actual economic expansion in 2022 stood at 2.6%, indicating a slightly subdued trajectory. The slowdown can be attributed in large part to the underperformance of exports, which have been adversely affected by global challenges. These include a variety of external factors that have dampened international trade. Despite the export hurdles, Thailand’s recovery remains partially supported by robust private consumption and a gradual revival of the tourism sector. Sethaput highlighted the positive contributions of these sectors to the nation’s ongoing economic recuperation. Notably, the tourism sector anticipates welcoming around 29 million foreign visitors this year, reflecting confidence in the industry’s gradual rebound. Sethaput added that deflation is declining more rapidly than anticipated, a development which has implications for the BOT’s approach to interest rate decisions. Going forward, the central bank’s stance on interest rates will be anchored to the broader economic outlook, rather than short-term fluctuations in data. By Paul Rujopakarn Source: https://thainews.prd.go.th/en/news/detail/TCATG230809142343185 -- © Copyright NNT 2023-08-09 - 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.

Contingency in Place for Possible Thaksin Return BANGKOK (NNT) - Deputy Prime Minister Wissanu Krea-ngam recently revealed that a contingency plan has been devised in anticipation of the potential return of fugitive former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1303066-contingency-in-place-for-possible-thaksin-return/

BANGKOK (NNT) - Deputy Prime Minister Wissanu Krea-ngam recently revealed that a contingency plan has been devised in anticipation of the potential return of fugitive former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra. According to Wissanu, the government has taken measures to address the situation in the event of Thaksin’s return to face legal proceedings. He affirmed that various concerned authorities, including the courts and the Department of Corrections, are fully prepared to effectively handle the situation. However, the deputy prime minister also made a specific request to Thaksin regarding the timing of his potential return, urging the former premier not to choose weekends or public holidays for his arrival. He cited the operational dynamics of the judicial system, where courts that would be responsible for designating a detention facility for Thaksin would not be operational during such days. This could complicate the process of finding an appropriate detention venue for the former prime minister on such days. Thaksin recently declared his intention to return to Thailand on August 10, marking the end of his self-imposed exile. However, he subsequently postponed his return, citing the need for medical check-ups as advised by his doctors. He has deferred his homecoming on several occasions in the past. Thaksin has spent years living in self-imposed exile. During his absence, he has been handed a cumulative prison sentence of 12 years across four separate cases by the Supreme Court’s Criminal Division for Holders of Political Office. The legal challenges he faces have been a central factor in his prolonged stay outside the country. By Paul Rujopakarn Source: https://thainews.prd.go.th/en/news/detail/TCATG230809141953179 -- © Copyright NNT 2023-08-09 - 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.

OERC Says Electricity Rate Measures Require Formation of New Government BANGKOK (NNT) - The Office of the Energy Regulatory Commission (OERC) has stressed the importance of a new government making decisions on additional cuts to electricity rates. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1303065-oerc-says-electricity-rate-measures-require-formation-of-new-government/

BANGKOK (NNT) - The Office of the Energy Regulatory Commission (OERC) has stressed the importance of a new government making decisions on additional cuts to electricity rates. Following a request by the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking for the OERC to cut its electricity rates to 4.25 baht per unit, OERC Secretary-General Komkrit Tantravanich said the OERC currently lacks sufficient funds to do so. He explained that a 1-satang reduction in electricity rates would require a substantial budget of 500-600 million baht. To lower the rate by a more significant 20 satang, the OERC would require an immense budget of around 15 billion baht. The financial implications underscore the importance of government approval in making such decisions. The secretary-general noted that the EGAT recently informed the OERC about a potential reduction in electricity generation from hydroelectric dams in Laos for the upcoming year due to prevailing expected drought conditions. This situation could prompt EGAT to shift its energy production methods, relying more heavily on LNG and coal to compensate for the anticipated shortfall. Given these issues, as well as the financial ramifications of rate changes, the OERC remains focused on ensuring that any decisions on energy rate cuts are made in close cooperation with the new government. The economic viability and wider implications of such reductions highlight the importance of collaborative efforts between the OERC and the government in order to ensure a stable and sustainable energy future for the nation. By Paul Rujopakarn Source: https://thainews.prd.go.th/en/news/detail/TCATG230809135633159 -- © Copyright NNT 2023-08-09 - 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.

Jasmine prices spike ahead of national Mother’s Day Prices of jasmine have increased as the country prepares to celebrate Mother’s Day on August 12. Following Thai tradition on this special day, children will present jasmine garlands to their mothers, hence the rise in demand. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1303064-jasmine-prices-spike-ahead-of-national-mother’s-day/

Prices of jasmine have increased as the country prepares to celebrate Mother’s Day on August 12. Following Thai tradition on this special day, children will present jasmine garlands to their mothers, hence the rise in demand. This year, the price per kilo for jasmine at Sarn Pu Dam market in Phitsanuloke has risen from Bt600 to Bt800. Additionally, the supply of the flowers to the markets this year is reduced, due to fungal infestation during the rainy season, also resulting in higher prices. Jamnien Kongklang, 61, a jasmine garland vendor in Nakhon Ratchasima’s Pimai district, said that the price of jasmine has already doubled, adding that her profits have also doubled ahead of Mother’s Day because more people are buying the garlands. Full Story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/jasmine-prices-spike-ahead-of-national-mothers-day/ -- © Copyright Thai PBS 2023-08-09 - 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.

Pheu Thai announces 8-party coalition to form new government The Pheu Thai party announced today (Wednesday) the union of eight parties to form a new government, which will, hopefully, put an end to the prolonged political divide in Thailand. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1303063-pheu-thai-announces-8-party-coalition-to-form-new-government/

The Pheu Thai party announced today (Wednesday) the union of eight parties to form a new government, which will, hopefully, put an end to the prolonged political divide in Thailand. In addition to the two core parties, Pheu Thai and Bhumjaithai, the other parties agreeing to join the coalition are Prachachat, Thai Liberal, Chart Pattana Kla, Pheu Thai Rumphalang, Plung Sungkom Mai and Thongthee Thai. In a statement issued today, Pheu Thai claimed that the coalition now commands more than half of the 500 seats in the House of Representatives, adding that they hope that it will be able to ease political tension and resolve political conflicts. Caption: The Pheu Thai party and eight parties announced to form a new government. Full Story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/pheu-thai-announces-8-party-coalition-to-form-new-government/ -- © Copyright Thai PBS 2023-08-09 - 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.

Wissanu asks Thaksin not to return on weekends or public holidays Thaksin Shinawatra A contingency plan is in place for the possible return of fugitive former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Whenever Thaksin does return to face legal action, the Thai government has already prepared plans to handle the situation, Deputy Prime Minister Wissanu Krea-ngam said today (Tuesday). Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1302964-wissanu-asks-thaksin-not-to-return-on-weekends-or-public-holidays/

A contingency plan is in place for the possible return of fugitive former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Whenever Thaksin does return to face legal action, the Thai government has already prepared plans to handle the situation, Deputy Prime Minister Wissanu Krea-ngam said today (Tuesday). Authorities concerned, including courts and the Corrections Department are ready, Wissanu said. He did, however, ask Thaksin not to arrive on weekends or public holidays. “During those days, the courts, which would assign a jail for Thaksin’s detention, would not be working, which would make things difficult as we would have to find detention venue for Thaksin instead,” he said. Caption: Thaksin Shinawatra Full Story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/wissanu-asks-thaksin-not-to-return-on-weekends-or-public-holidays/ -- © Copyright Thai PBS 2023-08-08 - 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.

Move Forward deputy leader proposes party votes for Pheu Thai’s PM candidate A deputy leader of the Move Forward party said today (Tuesday) that he will propose to the party’s executive committee, at today’s meeting, that they vote in support of Pheu Thai party’s prime ministerial candidate in parliament. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1302963-move-forward-deputy-leader-proposes-party-votes-for-pheu-thai’s-pm-candidate/

A deputy leader of the Move Forward party said today (Tuesday) that he will propose to the party’s executive committee, at today’s meeting, that they vote in support of Pheu Thai party’s prime ministerial candidate in parliament. Pol Maj Gen Suphisarn Pakdinarunart reasoned that, since the Pheu Thai party shares similar views with the Move Forward party, namely that the Constitution should be amended to remove senators’ power in the selection of the prime minister, the Move Forward party should support Pheu Thai’s candidate. The Pheu Thai party has joined hands with the Bhumjaithai party to become the core parties in an attempt form a government, on the conditions that the lèse majesté law is left intact and the coalition will not include the Move Forward party. The party has appealed for support from senators and MPs for its prime ministerial candidate, Srettha Thavisin, so a new government can be formed without further delay. Caption: Srettha Thavisin Full Story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/move-forward-deputy-leader-proposes-party-votes-for-pheu-thais-prime-ministerial-candidate/ -- © Copyright Thai PBS 2023-08-08 - 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.

Brit left with one leg shorter than other after botched surgery in Thailand Connor ‘Carnage’ McBride is now resorting to fundraising. INSTAGRAM/CONNORMCBRIDE100 A British Muay Thai boxer was left with one leg 3cm shorter than the other after undergoing surgery following a horror motorbike accident last year. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1302962-brit-left-with-one-leg-shorter-than-other-after-botched-surgery-in-thailand/

A British Muay Thai boxer was left with one leg 3cm shorter than the other after undergoing surgery following a horror motorbike accident last year. Connor ‘Carnage’ McBride is now resorting to fundraising in the hope of going under the knife once more to correct the botched operation. A former British Junior Champion, Connor had been competing on the Thai island of Koh Samui when he was hospitalised by a motorbike accident. Metal rods and pins were used to treat his badly fractured femur, but Connor has been left in constant pain by hip problems, spinal misalignment and disrupted bone growth. In order to stand a chance of competing in the ring again, Connor will have to replace the rod with a plate. By Sam Montgomery Caption: Connor ‘Carnage’ McBride is now resorting to fundraising. INSTAGRAM/CONNORMCBRIDE100 Full Story: https://www.gbnews.com/news/brit-muay-thai-surgery-thailand -- © Copyright GB News 2023-08-09 - 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.

Cyber sleuths collar 25 year old suspect in 1.4 million baht Phuket fraud Picture courtesy of Phuket News A burgeoning cryptocurrency fraud case took a significant turn as a 25 year old man was apprehended by the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB) in Phuket. Suspected of being a money mule within a criminal operation, authorities allege the man, named Toei, opened a bank account aiding a cryptocurrency fraud enterprise scamming over 1.4 million baht from unsuspecting individuals. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1302947-cyber-sleuths-collar-25-year-old-suspect-in-14-million-baht-phuket-fraud/

A burgeoning cryptocurrency fraud case took a significant turn as a 25 year old man was apprehended by the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB) in Phuket. Suspected of being a money mule within a criminal operation, authorities allege the man, named Toei, opened a bank account aiding a cryptocurrency fraud enterprise scamming over 1.4 million baht from unsuspecting individuals. The arrest occurred in the vicinity of Wichit, according to an account given by CCIB late last week. The precise timestamp of apprehension has not been disclosed by officials. Toei was detained under a warrant issued by the Songkhla Provincial Court, citing allegations of fraudulent activities. A CCIB spokesperson said… “In essence, the charges include jointly defrauding the public and inputting false data into a computer system in a way that is likely to cause damage to other people or the public.” Decisive action by the police followed multiple victim complaints of bogus investment opportunities in cryptocurrencies, as elaborated by the CCIB report. Fraudsters targeted victims on Facebook, offering high yields on investments funnelled through a Coinbase Wallet application. Unusually high returns initially greeted minuscule investments, coaxing victims to increase their financial commitments. However, the unsuspecting investors were robbed of their access to the funds in due course. The subsequent investigation into the cryptocurrency fraud unveiled the depth of the deceitful financial quagmire. The scamming cooperative had six separate bank accounts spread across multiple financial institutions, serving as conduits for siphoning off victims’ funds. The CCIB report confirmed all six accounts were interlinked. “Toei confessed to his part in the embezzlement operation.” Reportedly, two months prior, Toei opened a bank account for a confederate, receiving a measly 800 baht for handing over the bank details and ATM card. By Mitch Connor Caption: Picture courtesy of Phuket News Full Story: https://thethaiger.com/news/phuket/cryptocurrency-scam-enters-new-phase-man-arrested-for-aiding-1-4m-baht-fraud -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-08-08 - 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.

Bangkok daughter-in-law’s surprise – sweet not sour from mother-in-law’s purse Picture courtesy of Sanook Not all mother-in-laws are venomous harridans with acerbic tongues as one local Bangkok daughter-in-law discovered when receiving a gift envelope full of cash in an unexpected turn of events. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1302946-bangkok-daughter-in-law’s-surprise-–-sweet-not-sour-from-mother-in-law’s-purse/

Not all mother-in-laws are venomous harridans with acerbic tongues as one local Bangkok daughter-in-law discovered when receiving a gift envelope full of cash in an unexpected turn of events. The local Bangkok woman was blown away to find a concealed cash gift in her groceries – a heart-warming gesture from her in-laws. The incident, which unfolded a couple of days ago, was reported by website, phunuphapluat. Known for her bubbly personality, the local Bangkok woman hails from an upper-middle-class family in Bangkok. Despite being the only child, she married into a modest family from a rural province. Yet, the disparity in their backgrounds has never caused any disharmony, instead, the couple has celebrated their fifth wedding anniversary, raising their daughter with mutual understanding and respect, fulfilling each other. As per the custom during past summers, the couple along with their daughter embarked on a week-long visit to their rural domicile to see the grandparents. After enjoying the serenity of a rural lifestyle, it was time for them to return to their bustling city life. In their usual routine, the woman’s in-laws waved them off with warm wishes and advice, coupled with a parting gift of homegrown vegetables – a customary ritual. By Samantha Rose Caption: Picture courtesy of Sanook Full Story: https://thethaiger.com/news/national/bangkok-woman-discovers-cash-gift-subtly-hidden-in-groceries-from-in-laws -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-08-08 - 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.

Buckle up! New law makes taxis ensure passenger wear safety belt Safety belts will now be required in taxis in Thailand, starting November. (via Wallpaper Flare) Buckle up! An announcement requiring taxi drivers to warn their passengers to wear their safety belts has been issued and will become effective in November. The announcement was published in the Royal Gazette, yesterday, August 7. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1302945-buckle-up-new-law-makes-taxis-ensure-passenger-wear-safety-belt/

Buckle up! An announcement requiring taxi drivers to warn their passengers to wear their safety belts has been issued and will become effective in November. The announcement was published in the Royal Gazette, yesterday, August 7. The warning was declared by the National Police Office, which aims to establish a safety practice for taxi drivers in notifying and ensuring that passengers obey safety laws and wear their seat belts. The National Police Chief, Damrongsak Kittiprapas, signed the ruling. The crucial gist of the announcement highlights the appropriateness of establishing a standard for both public motorists and vehicles for hire used to transport passengers. This involves alerting passengers or offering notifications in these vehicles to comply with safety belt laws and safe standing or sitting protocols for certain types of vehicles. This new implementation focuses on taxis and public transportation over private vehicles. A law update last year meant that, from September 5, the driver and all passengers – including those in the back seat – are required by law to wear a safety belt, according to the Road Traffic Act (No.13) 2022. Previous laws only required the driver and front row passengers to strap in. By Neill Fronde Caption: Safety belts will now be required in taxis in Thailand, starting November. (via Wallpaper Flare) Full Story: https://thethaiger.com/hot-news/transport/thai-taxi-drivers-must-ensure-passenger-safety-belt-use-from-november -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-08-08 - 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.