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Thaksin faces 12 years in prison upon his return from exile Self-exiled former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra will face a total of 12 years in prison, in three outstanding cases, if he returns to Thailand on August 10th, as announced by his daughter, Paetongtarn, after 15 years abroad. The cases are: -The 3 and 2-digit lottery project of the Government Lottery Office, issued during his administration, in which he was found guilty of malfeasance in office and of violation of ethical conduct by a prime minister by the Supreme Court’s Criminal Division for Political Office Holders. He was sentenced to two years in prison. -The granting of a 4 billion baht loan to the Myanmar government by the Exim Bank of Thailand, for the purchase of equipment and services from Shin Satellite Company in which he and his associates held the majority stake. He was sentenced to three years in prison without suspension by the Supreme Court. Full Story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/thaksin-faces-12-years-in-prison-upon-his-return-from-exile/ -- © Copyright Thai PBS 2023-07-26 - 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.

Former Ang Thong school director appeals for legal help The former director of a school in Thailand’s Ang Thong province has sought legal support from the Lawyers Council of Thailand, claiming it was unfair to remove her from her job after 126 Myanmar children were found at her former school. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301781-former-ang-thong-school-director-appeals-for-legal-help/

The former director of a school in Thailand’s Ang Thong province has sought legal support from the Lawyers Council of Thailand, claiming it was unfair to remove her from her job after 126 Myanmar children were found at her former school. Kalaya Tasom said she and five other people are also facing legal action for bringing in and giving shelter to illegal immigrants. The only intention and reason she brought children into the Thai Rath Wittaya School, in Pa Moke district of Ang Thong,was to give them an opportunity to study, said Kalaya at a press briefing. Full Story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/former-ang-thong-school-director-appeals-for-legal-help/ -- © Copyright Thai PBS 2023-07-26 - 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.

Extra-long weekend in Thailand: here’s what you need to know Thailand is set to enjoy an extra-long SIX day weekend this weekend, which will also see immigration offices closed and a two day ban on the sale of alcohol. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301779-extra-long-weekend-in-thailand-here’s-what-you-need-to-know/

Thailand is set to enjoy an extra-long SIX day weekend this weekend, which will also see immigration offices closed and a two day ban on the sale of alcohol. The holiday begins on July 28 through August 2 inclusive. On Tuesday (July 25) the Cabinet announced that it had suddenly resolved to make July 31 a public holiday. By Online Reporter Full Story: https://www.huahintoday.com/hua-hin-news/extra-long-weekend-in-thailand-six-day-holiday-alcohol-ban-immigration-offices-closed-heres-what-you-need-to-know/ -- © Copyright Hua Hin Today 2023-07-26 - 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.

State welfare card holders to have more choices for public transport Thailand’s state welfare card holders will soon be able to use the 750 baht/month travelling subsidy, provided by the government, to travel by boat, “song thaew” and other transport services provided by private operators. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301702-state-welfare-card-holders-to-have-more-choices-for-public-transport/

Thailand’s state welfare card holders will soon be able to use the 750 baht/month travelling subsidy, provided by the government, to travel by boat, “song thaew” and other transport services provided by private operators. Rachada Dhnadirek, deputy government spokesperson, said today (Tuesday) that the Finance Ministry has decided to offer more public transport choices to card holders. Currently, card holders can only use public transport services provided by Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (the city’s bus operator), the Transport Company, BTS, MRT, the State Railway of Thailand and the eastern high-speed train, linking Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang and U-Tapao airports. Full Story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/state-welfare-card-holders-to-have-more-choices-for-public-transport/ -- © Copyright Thai PBS 2023-07-25 - 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.

Pattaya Man Misses His Home and Steals a Pickup Truck to get home A Thai man in Pattaya stole a pickup truck from a delivery man but was quickly arrested by police. The suspect desperately claimed that he missed his home in Chiang Rai, Northern Thailand, and needed to steal the truck to get there. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301697-pattaya-man-misses-his-home-and-steals-a-pickup-truck-to-get-home/

A Thai man in Pattaya stole a pickup truck from a delivery man but was quickly arrested by police. The suspect desperately claimed that he missed his home in Chiang Rai, Northern Thailand, and needed to steal the truck to get there. Pattaya police on Monday, July 24th, arrested an alleged car thief, Mr. Sao Songsaeng, a 27-year-old beach chair rental vendor at Pattaya Beach, while he was trying to flee the city in a stolen white Isuzu D-Max pickup truck. According to the police, they received a complaint from the delivery driver, Mr. Somchai Khetkhan, 47, that his truck, parked on Pattaya-Naklua Road with a running engine, had been stolen by a male suspect. By Tanakorn Panyadee Full Story: https://thepattayanews.com/2023/07/25/pattaya-man-misses-his-home-in-chiang-rai-and-steals-a-pickup-truck-to-try-to-get-there/ -- © Copyright The Pattaya News 2023-07-25 - 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.

Business leaders urge parliament to form a government in 1 month The Former Chairman of Joint Foreign Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Stanley Kang Several of Thailand’s business leaders are expressing concern over political instability. A new government has still not been formed since the general election in May. The business community is asking for stability in politics, claiming that continuation of the current impasse could destroy the confidence of foreign investors. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301696-business-leaders-urge-parliament-to-form-a-government-in-1-month/

Several of Thailand’s business leaders are expressing concern over political instability. A new government has still not been formed since the general election in May. The business community is asking for stability in politics, claiming that continuation of the current impasse could destroy the confidence of foreign investors. Two months after the election it remains unclear who will become the country’s 30th prime minister, since the bicameral parliament empowers senators to join the vote for the prime minister. The current political turmoil is affecting foreign investor decisions over put more money into Thailand. The Former Chairman of Joint Foreign Chamber of Commerce, Stanley Kang, emphasised the need to have a clearer picture as soon as possible. Caption: The Former Chairman of Joint Foreign Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Stanley Kang Full Story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/business-leaders-urge-parliament-to-form-a-government-in-1-month/ -- © Copyright Thai PBS 2023-07-25 - 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.

Crocodiles rock a Thailand community after 10 escape farm during flood Photo via Facebook/ peoplepostnew25 Ten crocodiles mysteriously disappeared from a local farm in the Tung Yai district of the southern province of Nakhon Si Thammarat yesterday after the area was hit by a deluge. Locals managed to capture four of the escaped reptiles but six others are still at large in the residential area. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301693-crocodiles-rock-a-thailand-community-after-10-escape-farm-during-flood/

Ten crocodiles mysteriously disappeared from a local farm in the Tung Yai district of the southern province of Nakhon Si Thammarat yesterday after the area was hit by a deluge. Locals managed to capture four of the escaped reptiles but six others are still at large in the residential area. The district office swiftly issued an official warning to residents in the affected area, cautioning them about the potential dangers posed by the escaped crocodiles. The spot where these animals fled is quite close to a popular play area for local children and near to where some residents keep their cows. Local authorities believe that the remaining six crocodiles sought refuge in the flood-hit palm plantations and fish farms nearby. The district authorities collaborated with the renowned Krai Thong Team, specialists in capturing crocodiles from the Provincial Fisheries Department, to try and apprehend the escaped crocs. The team plan to capture the rest of the crocodiles as soon as possible. A similar case was reported today in Samut Prakarn province near Bangkok. A local farmer discovered a baby crocodile measuring 70 centimetres in length in Bang Pra Kot Canal. Residents in the area suspected that the crocodile had escaped from a household or farm that had been keeping the reptile illegally. Fearing legal consequences, the owner chose to release it into the canal. By Petch Petpailin Caption: Photo via Facebook/ peoplepostnew25 Full Story: https://thethaiger.com/news/national/crocodiles-rock-a-thailand-community-after-10-escape-farm-during-flood -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-07-25 - 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.

Badminton court stokes controversy with MFP colour-coded promotions and political bans Picture courtesy of สนามแบดมินตัน Panda Arena อุตรดิตถ์ Facebook Panda Arena badminton court, situated in the northern Uttaradit province, sparked controversy by offering a promotion to anyone wearing an orange shirt, in support of the Move Forward Party (MFP). The Panda Arena made known that those wearing orange can play on the courts for free for two hours. Interestingly, it has cautioned against wearing red shirts, expressing disgust at the colour. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301692-badminton-court-stokes-controversy-with-mfp-colour-coded-promotions-and-political-bans/

Panda Arena badminton court, situated in the northern Uttaradit province, sparked controversy by offering a promotion to anyone wearing an orange shirt, in support of the Move Forward Party (MFP). The Panda Arena made known that those wearing orange can play on the courts for free for two hours. Interestingly, it has cautioned against wearing red shirts, expressing disgust at the colour. This move indicates an expression of disdain towards certain political views. Earlier, Panda Arena had declared an outright ban on members of Parliament, the Election Commission, and their children from using their services. Panda Arena has, moreover, reiterated its stand, reported KhaoSod. “MPs and assistant MPs who support Pita, including senators who help Pita to be prime minister, our field is open for you to play badminton for free for the rest of your life. I’m very happy to help you before Thailand gets lost even more.” Recently, Panda Arena posted a promotion aimed at customers in orange and red shirts, stating… “Today’s promo, any groups wearing orange shirts to play, the admin will let you play for free for two hours straight. Please don’t wear red shirts, starting to get disgusted.” By Nattapong Westwood Caption: Picture courtesy of สนามแบดมินตัน Panda Arena อุตรดิตถ์ Facebook Full Story: https://thethaiger.com/news/northern-thailand/uttaradits-panda-arena-badminton-court-stokes-controversy-with-colour-coded-promotions-and-political-bans -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-07-25 - 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.

Heartwarming twist: Water park owner forgives thieves, offers job instead Photo via MGR Online The owner of Aloha Water Park in the Isaan province of Sakon Nakhon displayed heartwarming humanity to withdraw a complaint against a couple who stole from him and offered them a job. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301691-heartwarming-twist-water-park-owner-forgives-thieves-offers-job-instead/

The owner of Aloha Water Park in the Isaan province of Sakon Nakhon displayed heartwarming humanity to withdraw a complaint against a couple who stole from him and offered them a job. A security camera captured the moment when a 29 year old Thai named Sarawut stole food from a shop at the Aloha Water Park on July 4 while his 43 year old wife, Arun, and seven year old daughter acted as lookouts. Sarawut stole some green tea, evaporated milk, and several other drink ingredients and put them into his tote bag before making a hasty exit on a motorcycle with his family. The owner of the water park, 42 year old Pitsanu Siripongtanakorn, handed over the evidence at Meaung Sakon Nakhon Police Station and the couple were arrested yesterday, July 24, at their rental house in the province. The couple admitted to the crime. Arun revealed that she took her daughter to the water park for the first time. When they were about to leave, they noticed that the shop had no staff members and decided to take advantage of the empty premises. Arun further revealed that she supported her family by selling homemade desserts and stole the ingredients to cut her business costs and make more income. By Petch Petpailin Caption: Photo via MGR Online Full Story: https://thethaiger.com/news/national/heartwarming-twist-water-park-owner-forgives-thieves-offers-job-instead -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-07-25 - 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.

Chinese man lives Thai life with only Chinese products, sparks social media debate Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A Chinese man‘s transformation of his life in Thailand sparked a heated conversation on social media. His claim that his life here resembles home despite being abroad has led some to question why Thai products are seemingly absent from his routine. Indeed, even the person who delivers his food speaks Mandarin. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301690-chinese-man-lives-thai-life-with-only-chinese-products-sparks-social-media-debate/

A Chinese man‘s transformation of his life in Thailand sparked a heated conversation on social media. His claim that his life here resembles home despite being abroad has led some to question why Thai products are seemingly absent from his routine. Indeed, even the person who delivers his food speaks Mandarin. One Twitter user shared a TikTok video of the Chinese citizen, commenting on the experience. The caption read… “A Chinese man reviewed how easy life in Thailand is. He said it’s very comfortable even if you can’t speak Thai. Throughout the video, there’s nothing Thai.” The Chinese man unveiled in the video… “Can you believe, living in Thailand, but if you don’t speak Thai, it doesn’t hinder your life. Today, let’s see what it’s like to be abroad that doesn’t feel like being abroad.” Subsequently, he embarked on presenting a day in his life in a foreign country that felt incredibly easy and familiar. By Nattapong Westwood Caption: Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Full Story: https://thethaiger.com/news/national/chinese-man-lives-thai-life-with-only-chinese-products-sparks-social-media-debate -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-07-25 - 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.

Tropical Storm Doksuri to Bring Heavy Rainfall Thailand is bracing for heavy rains and potential flooding as tropical storm Doksuri is expected to make its way over the country between July 29th and August 1st. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301689-tropical-storm-doksuri-to-bring-heavy-rainfall/

Thailand is bracing for heavy rains and potential flooding as tropical storm Doksuri is expected to make its way over the country between July 29th and August 1st. The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued warnings urging residents in 46 provinces to prepare for the incoming deluge. According to Deputy Government Spokesperson Rachada Dhnadirek, the TMD’s latest advisory indicates that the storm is currently tracking northeastward and is predicted to make landfall in Taiwan on July 26. While Thailand may avoid a direct hit, the storm’s presence would exacerbate existing monsoon conditions, leading to widespread rainfall throughout the weekend. By Goongnang Suksawat Full Story: https://thepattayanews.com/2023/07/25/tropical-storm-doksuri-to-bring-heavy-rainfall/ -- © Copyright The Pattaya News 2023-07-25 - 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.

Raw Milk Declines BANGKOK, July 25 (TNA) – The quantity of raw milk across the country has currently decreased from the average of the previous year by 400 tons per day as farmers enter milking break and reduce livestock rearing, said the Deputy Director-General of the Department of Livestock Development. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301688-raw-milk-declines/

BANGKOK, July 25 (TNA) – The quantity of raw milk across the country has currently decreased from the average of the previous year by 400 tons per day as farmers enter milking break and reduce livestock rearing, said the Deputy Director-General of the Department of Livestock Development. The decline is attributed to the milking break period before cows give birth following the normal rearing cycle. Additionally, some farmers have suspended rearing due to the high costs of livestock feed ingredients. Full Story: https://tna.mcot.net/english-news-1212870 -- © Copyright Thai News Agency 2023-07-25 - 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.

Felicitous Felines: Beliefs About Thai Cats and Breed Characteristics Source: Jane Koshchina / Shutterstock.com Thailand has long been recognized as the birthplace of some of the world’s most extraordinary feline companions. These enchanting cats have not only captured hearts with their striking beauty but have also become intertwined with Thai culture and beliefs. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301687-felicitous-felines-beliefs-about-thai-cats-and-breed-characteristics/

Thailand has long been recognized as the birthplace of some of the world’s most extraordinary feline companions. These enchanting cats have not only captured hearts with their striking beauty but have also become intertwined with Thai culture and beliefs. Some believe that owning a Siamese cat brings good luck and prosperity. Others trust that the Khao Manee, with its striking white coat and mesmerizing eyes, is a symbol of spiritual enlightenment. These beliefs weave a whimsical tapestry around Thai cat breeds, infusing them with an air of mystique. So, whether you’re seeking a four-legged companion or hoping to invite some good fortune into your life, Thai cat breeds are the “purrfect” blend of beauty, charm, and feline magic! Pawprints of the past: Thai cats and their enduring heritage It comes as no surprise that Thai cats have an entire manuscript written about them. The Tamra Maew, meaning, “Cat Treatise” or “The Cat-Book of Poems,” dates back to the eighteenth century, and is said to have been written by Buddhist monks. In it, these fuzzy felines have been described, praised, and drawn so intricately, that scholars, researchers, and cat lovers turn to it even today. Rummaging through the Tamra Maew, one comes to learn that Thailand was once home to over 20 distinct cat breeds—some known to bring good luck, and the rest regarded as harboring negative symbolism. Thanks to the British Library, there’s an excellent digitized copy of the manuscripts available for all to access on the internet. But despite Thai cats’ cultural, spiritual, and mythical relevance, many of them are nearly extinct. As for the five original breeds that survive to this day, efforts to conserve their population are well underway. Wichien Maat: The royal cat of Siam Sleek bodies, mesmerizing blue almond-shaped eyes, and an air of elegance that would make any cat lover weak at the knees. That’s Wichien Maat for you—the royal cat of Siam. Their cerulean eyes result from a genetic trait specific to the cat breed and are where it gets the name ‘Moon Diamond’ from. There’s a lot worth learning about the Wichien Maat. These regal kitties are no ordinary house pets. They are highly intelligent and curious and enjoy interacting with their humans, thus earning the moniker “Meezers.” Back in the day, Siamese cats were the crème de la crème, reserved exclusively for the Thai royal family. They were treasured like precious gems, representing good luck and prosperity. It was believed that when a loved one passed away, their soul would find a new home in the body of a Siamese cat. Suphalak: Rare yet prized Commonly known as Thong Daeng (Thai for “copper” or literally “red gold”), this Thai cat breed came to prominence during the Burmese-Siamese war in the 18th century. The sacking of Ayutthaya led to the transfer of many royal treasures to Burma (present-day Myanmar), including the Tamra Maew. Upon discovering the awe-inspiring nature and energies of Suphalak cats as detailed in the Cat Treatise, the king of Burma commanded his subjects to capture all Suphalaks and bring them back to Burma. This apocryphal story has been used to explain the rarity of this breed and their close resemblance to the Burmese cat. But Thailand’s love for the Suphalak isn’t just because it’s rare. These creatures are small and short-haired, flaunt golden yellow eyes, and have an evenly pigmented reddish-brown coat. Owing to these attributes, they are compared to the value of gold, implying that they bring prosperity to the pet owner. Si-Sawat: Shimmering elegance Also known as the Korat cat, these silver-coated felines feature prominently pointed ears and bright green eyes. They can pick up the faintest sounds, spot the tiniest movements, and sniff out even the sneakiest treats. Like many other cats on this list, the Si-Sawat is considered a symbol of good luck and prosperity. This explains why it was never sold but only given as a gift, and it had to be in pairs! These cats were considered a symbol of a blissful and prosperous marriage, a guarantee for a happily ever after. Even today, the Si-Sawat cats are an integral part of the Hae Nang Maew festival in Northeast Thailand. When the villagers are desperate for rain to quench their fields, they take to the streets with a cat in tow. It’s a lively parade, with the Si-Sawat as the star of the show. Khao Manee: Pure as snow Literally translating to “white gem,” this Thai cat breed originates from a breeding initiative. Most Khao Manee cats have odd-colored eyes—with one shining like a golden treasure, and the other like a sapphire, which is considered a symbol of good fortune. The pure white coat is another defining characteristic of the Khao Manee breed. It is soft, smooth, and lustrous, accentuating its elegant and regal demeanor. Moreover, some of these cats are born deaf, necessitating specialized care and attention. Back in the 19th century, it was strongly believed that owning one of these cats would bring both longevity and prestige to a household. In fact, legend has it that when King Chulalongkorn the Great ruled the land, the penalty for stealing these cats was none other than the ultimate punishment: death itself. Konja: The black panther Yet another breed that appeared in the Tamra Maew, the Konja cat often draws comparisons to the legendary Thai lion, Singha. It’s no wonder why their elegant walk exudes a similar majestic aura. In the treatise, their eyes, teeth, tongue, and claws were described as pitch black. Another distinguishing feature that made them truly stand out was a crisp white stripe running from under their chin all the way down their belly. Today though, the Konja breed is typically entirely black. Perceptions of this black panther stand in stark contrast to the common belief of black cats being seen as ominous symbols. In ancient times, Thai people believed that feeding the cat would bestow upon them a great deal of good fortune. In fact, the Konja cat continues to be a common fixture in Thai temples to this day. Preserving what remains Out of the traditional Thai cat breeds, only five remain in existence today. Veterans like Preecha Pookabut are going to great lengths to preserve their heritage and future by means of initiatives such as the Baan Maew Thai. Even today, Thai cats are a crucial part of certain traditions in Thailand. The Khao Manee cat is still sprinkled with water during Songkran—the Thai New Year, owing to the belief that it will bring good fortune in the coming year. Go to a Buddhist temple, and there’s a high chance you’ll see little Siamese kittens by the dozen! For those fortunate enough to welcome a Thai cat into their homes, they will experience the joy of sharing their lives with a truly exceptional and captivating companion. By Tarang Mohnot Top photo caption: Source: Jane Koshchina / Shutterstock.com 2nd photo caption: Source: Nattakorn Suphatheera / Shutterstock.com 3rd photo caption: Source: Giffany / Shutterstock.com 4th photo caption: Source: bamgraphy / Shutterstock.com 5th photo caption: Source: dangdumrong / Shutterstock.com Source: https://www.thailandnow.in.th/life-society/felicitous-felines-beliefs-about-thai-cats-and-breed-characteristics/ -- © Copyright THAILAND NOW 2023-07-25 - 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.