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Grab driver accuses Phuket taxi drivers of deliberately puncturing his tyre PHOTO: 77Kaoded It seems the Phuket “taxi mafia” are at it again, with a Grab driver claiming taxi drivers stationed at Patong’s Tri Trang Beach Hotel deliberately damaged his car. Phuket’s taxi cabal have conducted a decades-long war against any additions or alternatives to public transport in Phuket with a protectionist racket that regularly bullies any new competition. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1296025-grab-driver-accuses-phuket-taxi-drivers-of-deliberately-puncturing-his-tyre/

It seems the Phuket “taxi mafia” are at it again, with a Grab driver claiming taxi drivers stationed at Patong’s Tri Trang Beach Hotel deliberately damaged his car. Phuket’s taxi cabal have conducted a decades-long war against any additions or alternatives to public transport in Phuket with a protectionist racket that regularly bullies any new competition. According to a Phuket News report, Thanawanta Wannaphat says he had just dropped off some customers at the hotel on Muen Ngoen Road when a group of taxi drivers started shouting taunts at him. Thanawanta says one man then knocked on his window and asked him what he was doing, to which the Grab driver replied that he had just dropped off some customers and was not there to pick anyone up. By Peter Roche Caption: PHOTO: 77Kaoded Full Story: https://phuket-go.com/phuket-news/phuket-news/grab-driver-accuses-phuket-taxi-drivers-of-deliberately-puncturing-his-tyre/ -- © Copyright Phuket GO 2023-05-26 - 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. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

Chinese Tour Groups Visiting Thailand Still Down by 90 Percent Compared to 2019 The number of Chinese tour groups in Thailand is still low which was only ten percent of the total that had visited before Covid-19 in 2019, said prominent Thai tourism associations today, May 26th, 2023. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1296023-chinese-tour-groups-visiting-thailand-still-down-by-90-percent-compared-to-2019/

The number of Chinese tour groups in Thailand is still low which was only ten percent of the total that had visited before Covid-19 in 2019, said prominent Thai tourism associations today, May 26th, 2023. The Secretary of the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) Mr. Adit Chairattananon told the associated Thai press, “In 2019 there were 11 million Chinese tourists that visited Thailand. Of this number, 600,000 of them were in tour groups via ATTA. When comparing the first five months of this year there were about one million Chinese tourists who visited Thailand. Of this number, only 100,000 of them were in group tours via ATTA which was only about 10 percent of the number of tour groups in 2019,” Mr. Adit explained. By Goongnang Suksawat Full Story: https://thepattayanews.com/2023/05/26/chinese-tour-groups-visiting-thailand-still-down-by-90-percent-compared-to-2019/ -- © Copyright The Pattaya News 2023-05-26 - 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. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

Bangkok Launches Campaign to Combat High Diabetes Risk BANGKOK (NNT) - The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has launched the "Diabetes-Free Thais" campaign to address the high risk of diabetes among city-dwellers. The campaign, established in 2022 by the Diabetes Association of Thailand and Merck Thailand, aims to raise awareness about pre-diabetes conditions and the importance of early detection and treatment to slow down the progression of diabetes. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1296021-bangkok-launches-campaign-to-combat-high-diabetes-risk/

BANGKOK (NNT) - The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has launched the "Diabetes-Free Thais" campaign to address the high risk of diabetes among city-dwellers. The campaign, established in 2022 by the Diabetes Association of Thailand and Merck Thailand, aims to raise awareness about pre-diabetes conditions and the importance of early detection and treatment to slow down the progression of diabetes. According to a survey conducted during last year’s campaign, 73% of the 7,500 participants were found to be at a high risk of developing diabetes. As a result, the Diabetes Association sought the assistance of the BMA in raising awareness among target groups in the city. BMA Deputy Governor Tavida Kamolvej highlighted that a large proportion of the over 5 million diabetic patients in Thailand reside in major cities like Bangkok. The city lifestyle, characterized by busyness and limited time for exercise and healthcare, contributes to the development of diabetes. According to Tavida, the BMA’s Health Department also plans to adopt proactive and passive measures to identify individuals at risk within each community, providing them with appropriate treatment and health advice. Health practitioners and volunteers will also engage in door-to-door campaigns to emphasize the significance of primary healthcare and early disease detection, which can lead to long-term cost savings on treatment expenses. Tavida expressed hope that the campaign’s collaboration would enhance the city’s primary healthcare standards and potentially pave the way for future initiatives, such as establishing hospitals and research institutes dedicated to diabetes treatment and prevention. By Krajangwit Johjit Source: https://thainews.prd.go.th/en/news/detail/TCATG230526115956960 -- © Copyright NNT 2023-05-26 - 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. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

Vesak Day Ceremony in Thailand to Attract Thousands of Monks BANGKOK (NNT) - Thailand is hosting a ceremony commemorating Vesak, or Visakha Bucha Day at the beginning of next month, with more than 3,500 monks from 50 countries set to participate in the two-day celebration. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1296020-vesak-day-ceremony-in-thailand-to-attract-thousands-of-monks/

BANGKOK (NNT) - Thailand is hosting a ceremony commemorating Vesak, or Visakha Bucha Day at the beginning of next month, with more than 3,500 monks from 50 countries set to participate in the two-day celebration. The Sangha Supreme Council of Thailand has announced that the Vesak celebrations will be held on June 1-2, 2023. The 18th edition of the event will be jointly organized by Maha Chulalongkorn Raja Vidyalaya University, the Sangha Supreme Council, and the Thai government. The event will commence on June 1, with the opening ceremony presided by the Supreme Patriarch Ariyavongsagatanana followed by seminars at Maha Chulalongkorn Raja Vidyalaya University in the afternoon. On June 2, Buddhist monks and devotees will gather at the United Nations headquarters on Ratchadamnoen Road for a ceremony led by the president of the Privy Council, Gen Surayud Chulanont. Attendees can take part in prayers at Phutthamonthon in Nakhon Pathom province as well. Permanent Secretary for Interior Suttipong Juljarern stated that the Interior Ministry will notify governors across Thailand to raise the national flag along with the Buddhist flag in order to promote Vesak Day. He also encourages Thai Buddhists to participate in merit-making activities from June 1-7 and refrain from gambling during that period. By Krajangwit Johjit Source: https://thainews.prd.go.th/en/news/detail/TCATG230526151638041 -- © Copyright NNT 2023-05-26 - 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. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

Nearly 350 Export Stimulus Activities Planned For Second Half of 2023 BANGKOK (NNT) - In an effort to boost exports, the Ministry of Commerce plans to organize up to 350 export stimulus activities in the second half of the year. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1296019-nearly-350-export-stimulus-activities-planned-for-second-half-of-2023/

BANGKOK (NNT) - In an effort to boost exports, the Ministry of Commerce plans to organize up to 350 export stimulus activities in the second half of the year. Permanent Secretary for Commerce Keerati Rushchano underlined the ministry’s initiative after a joint meeting with foreign commercial counselors and representatives from the private sector on May 25. He said the meeting has agreed to organize activities with the aim to increase the value of exports by approximately 550 million dollars (19.4 billion baht). To facilitate the process, the director-general said that a dedicated task force called the "war room" will be established to set to expedite exports to target markets designated by public and private sectors. Target markets identified for this expansion include the Middle East, South Asia, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Vietnam, and China, which show growth potential amid the global economic slowdown. The ministry intends to implement various strategies to achieve its export goals. These include opening new markets, sustaining existing ones, and revitalizing older markets. Key strategies involve forming trade representative groups to expand market potential, promoting cross-border e-commerce, negotiating business partnerships online and offline, and other various areas. According to the permanent secretary, the ministry also plans to prioritize secondary city markets, especially within ASEAN, the United States, and Europe. The target of 550 million dollars in the second half is expected to elevate the total export value for the year to approximately 290-293 billion dollars, surpassing the initial target range of 289-292 billion dollars. The Thai National Shippers’ Council stated that exporters in Thailand face several challenges due to unpredictable factors such as a sluggish US economy, slow recovery in China, and fluctuations in the value of the baht. Exporters also expressed concerns over the recent minimum wage increase announcement which could discourage new investment in Thailand and prompt existing businesses to consider relocating to other countries. To instill investor confidence, the Thai Chamber of Commerce suggests that minimum wage adjustments involve a tripartite committee that takes into account the opinions of business owners rather than just political policies, as industries such as agriculture, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), tourism, and labor-intensive service sectors will be affected by wage increases. By Krajangwit Johjit Source: https://thainews.prd.go.th/en/news/detail/TCATG230526150416028 -- © Copyright NNT 2023-05-26 - 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. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

Govt Affirms More Transit Systems to be Ready in Few Years BANGKOK (NNT) - The government has announced that additional mass-transit systems will be available for commuters to travel around Bangkok and neighboring provinces within a few years. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1296018-govt-affirms-more-transit-systems-to-be-ready-in-few-years/

BANGKOK (NNT) - The government has announced that additional mass-transit systems will be available for commuters to travel around Bangkok and neighboring provinces within a few years. According to Government Spokesperson Anucha Burapachaisri, commuters will soon be able to use the services from the Yellow Line system which is reported to be over 90 percent complete. The Line connects Bangkok’s Lat Phrao district and Samrong area in Samut Prakan province. He stated that the Thailand Mass Rapid Transit Authority (MRTA) is now performing system tests to ensure the safety of the country’s first monorail mass-transit system, which is scheduled to offer its services by the end of this year. The government spokesperson provided updates on the Pink Line, another monorail mass-transit system set to begin commercial services in 2024. The Pink Line, which runs from Nonthaburi’s Khae Rai area to Bangkok’s Minburi district, is scheduled to start trial runs in January 2023 and will be open for full commercial services in June next year. Meanwhile, officials reported that 99% of construction on the Orange Line’s eastern section has been completed. The Section, which connects Bangkok’s Minburi district and Thailand Cultural Centre station, is scheduled to be open in August 2025. The MRTA also reported that work on the southern portion of the Purple Line, which would connect the existing Tao Poon station to Bangkok’s Rat Burana area, is currently underway. The government spokeswoman added that the MRTA is currently repairing road surfaces that have been damaged by these constructions and that some of these repairs would be finished by the end of this year, alleviating traffic congestion in many locations. By Krajangwit Johjit Source: https://thainews.prd.go.th/en/news/detail/TCATG230526150156025 -- © Copyright NNT 2023-05-26 - 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. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

Malaysian Education Minister Visits Thailand as NSC Guest BANGKOK (NNT) - Former Malaysian Minister of Education, Dr. Maszlee bin Malik, accompanied by his spouse, has undertaken an official visit to Thailand as a guest of the National Security Council (NSC). The visit aimed to strengthen the bilateral relationship between the two nations and explore avenues for collaborative development, particularly in the context of education and addressing challenges in the southern border provinces. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1296016-malaysian-education-minister-visits-thailand-as-nsc-guest/

BANGKOK (NNT) - Former Malaysian Minister of Education, Dr. Maszlee bin Malik, accompanied by his spouse, has undertaken an official visit to Thailand as a guest of the National Security Council (NSC). The visit aimed to strengthen the bilateral relationship between the two nations and explore avenues for collaborative development, particularly in the context of education and addressing challenges in the southern border provinces. From May 21st to May 24th, the former Malaysian minister engaged in several important activities, focusing on fostering peace, promoting development, and enhancing educational opportunities in the region. His visit commenced with a meeting at the Siddhi Savetsila reception hall on May 22, where Dr. Maszlee and his delegation were welcomed by the NSC Secretary-General and executives. Following the reception, a meeting was convened for the two sides to discuss measures to resolve issues in the southern border provinces, with particular attention to enhancing Malaysia’s education system for national development. Dr. Maszlee shared Malaysia’s experiences in utilizing technology, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Big Data, to tailor curricula to individual learners’ needs, emphasizing the potential of such tools in facilitating personalized education. On May 23, an academic symposium titled "Malaysia’s Education Policy and Strategy: Lessons Learned and Recommendations for Developing an Inclusive and Balanced Education System in the Southern Border Provinces" was held at Amari Watergate Hotel in Bangkok. The symposium explored Malaysia’s education policy, with a specific focus on the STREAM (Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) education approach. Discussions also revolved around enhancing academic and vocational skills in private Islamic schools, creating additional opportunities for higher education and diverse career paths. Concluding the meeting, former NSC Secretary-General Prakit Prachonpachanuk commended the discussions held during the symposium and highlighted their relevance in advancing educational opportunities and fostering harmonious coexistence in the region. Officials stated that the visit proved to be a highly beneficial and enriching experience, fostering stronger ties between Malaysia and Thailand while highlighting the significance of leveraging education as a powerful tool for promoting peace and building a brighter future for the region. By Krajangwit Johjit Source: https://thainews.prd.go.th/en/news/detail/TCATG230526121125968 -- © Copyright NNT 2023-05-26 - 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. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

Pita’s ally questions Malaysia’s role in Southern peace talks Thailand should allow other ASEAN countries, especially Indonesia, to help in its efforts to end violence in southern Thailand, while reconsidering Malaysia’s current role as the peace dialogue facilitator, according to a key leader of one of the political parties in the coalition being formed by Move Forward Party leader Pita Limjaroenrat. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1296015-pita’s-ally-questions-malaysia’s-role-in-southern-peace-talks/

Thailand should allow other ASEAN countries, especially Indonesia, to help in its efforts to end violence in southern Thailand, while reconsidering Malaysia’s current role as the peace dialogue facilitator, according to a key leader of one of the political parties in the coalition being formed by Move Forward Party leader Pita Limjaroenrat. Kannavee Suebsueng, secretary general of the Pentham (Fair) Party, which advocates a comprehensive approach in solving conflicts in the three southernmost provinces, said Malaysia has a conflict of interest that raises questions about its role in facilitating the peace process. Resolving the conflicts in southern Thailand is one of the items in the MoU, signed by the eight political parties in the Pita coalition. Kannavee admitted that the language in the MoU was toned down, to make it more acceptable to the coalition partners. Full Story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/pitas-ally-questions-malaysias-role-in-southern-peace-talks/ -- © Copyright Thai PBS 2023-05-26 - 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. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

Prachachat party leader suggested for House speaker post Prachachat party leader Wan Muhammad Nor Matha as the House speaker would be the best way to end the ongoing dispute between Move Forward and Pheu Thai over the position, a coalition party leader claimed on Friday. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1296014-prachachat-party-leader-suggested-for-house-speaker-post/

Prachachat party leader Wan Muhammad Nor Matha as the House speaker would be the best way to end the ongoing dispute between Move Forward and Pheu Thai over the position, a coalition party leader claimed on Friday. Seri Ruam Thai leader Sereepisuth Temiyavet said that Wan Muhammad is suited to the position due to his seniority and because he has previously held the post. Two major coalition parties in the Pita-led coalition have been wrangling over the position for days. Caption: The combo photo shows Seri Ruam Thai leader Seripisuth Temeyavej (L) and Prachachat leader Wan Muhammad Nor Matha (R). Full Story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/prachachat-party-leader-suggested-for-house-speaker-post/ -- © Copyright Thai PBS 2023-05-26 - 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. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

Wages in Thailand are only one factor in potential investor decisions Raising the minimum wage in Thailand to 450 baht a day will make workers happy, but certainly not business operators, as reflected in the negative opinions voiced by various business groups. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1296013-wages-in-thailand-are-only-one-factor-in-potential-investor-decisions/

Raising the minimum wage in Thailand to 450 baht a day will make workers happy, but certainly not business operators, as reflected in the negative opinions voiced by various business groups. Poj Aramwattananont, vice chair of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, has warned that the increase in the minimum wage, as pledged by parties during their election campaigns, could prompt potential foreign investors think twice and may delay their plans to invest in Thailand. Take a look at the minimum wages in the Philippines, Vietnam and Indonesia, in comparison with the wages in Thailand. Indonesia’s minimum wage is higher than that in Thailand but, given the size of the Indonesian population, estimated at about 300 million, the prospect for domestic and external trade is greater than in Thailand. Full Story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/wages-in-thailand-are-only-one-factor-in-potential-investor-decisions/ -- © Copyright Thai PBS 2023-05-26 - 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. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

Thai senator summoned for alleged involvement in attack on monks and residents in Isaan Photo via Matichon Weekly Police summoned Thai senator Kittisak Rattanawaraha for questioning after it was discovered that he was allegedly involved in an attack on monks and residents in the Isaan province of Phichit last month. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1295942-thai-senator-summoned-for-alleged-involvement-in-attack-on-monks-and-residents-in-isaan/

Police summoned Thai senator Kittisak Rattanawaraha for questioning after it was discovered that he was allegedly involved in an attack on monks and residents in the Isaan province of Phichit last month. On April 6, a group of men wearing all-black came to Bang Klan Temple, also known as Hirunyaram Temple, in the Pho Talay district of Phichit and attacked monks and the temple committee. Matichon reported that 13 victims, including monks, were injured, and three of them suffered severe conditions. The motive was later identified as a conflict between the former temple committee and its new team. The men in black did not accept the new team or the new abbot so they entered the house, attacked people, and banned visitors from getting in. The Commander of Phichit Provincial Police Officer, Kamthorn Jantee, reported that 20 suspects who participated in the attack were arrested. Only two suspects were left, including Senator Kittisak and another government official named Dusit Khamsila. Officer Kamthorn did not reveal how the senator was involved in the attack at the temple but he disclosed that his team had already launched an arrest warrant against Kittisak. The court, however, allegedly asked them to drop the warrant and issue a summons instead. By Petch Petpailin Caption: Photo via Matichon Weekly Full Story: https://thethaiger.com/news/national/thai-senator-summoned-for-alleged-involvement-in-attack-on-monks-and-residents-in-isaan -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-05-25 - 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. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

Storm topples trees, causes chaos and flooding in northeastern Thailand Photo by Naewna A sudden storm in Chaiyaphum province, in northeastern Thailand, yesterday caused fallen trees to block roads and flooding. Two cars slipped off the road in the darkness, though drivers managed to escape unharmed. Local authorities have been urged to improve lighting in the area to reduce accidents. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1295941-storm-topples-trees-causes-chaos-and-flooding-in-northeastern-thailand/

A sudden storm in Chaiyaphum province, in northeastern Thailand, yesterday caused fallen trees to block roads and flooding. Two cars slipped off the road in the darkness, though drivers managed to escape unharmed. Local authorities have been urged to improve lighting in the area to reduce accidents. In various areas of Chaiyaphum province, heavy rain and strong winds led to flooding and fallen trees blocking numerous roads. Municipal officials in the city of Chaiyaphum quickly inspected and cleared roads to facilitate traffic for residents. A large tree also collapsed, blocking access to the Non Samor community and forcing residents to use another road near the Chaiyaphum Vanaram temple to enter and exit. In Ban Kheaw district, storm floodwaters inundated the surface of Highway 225, connecting Chaiyaphum and Nakhon Sawan provinces. The area, where a four-lane road is under construction, lacks sufficient lighting for drivers, causing two cars, a pickup truck and a sedan, to veer off the road and become submerged in water. The occupants of both cars were able to escape unharmed before the floodwaters engulfed their vehicles. By Nattapong Westwood Caption: Photo by Naewna Full Story: https://thethaiger.com/news/national/storm-topples-trees-causes-chaos-and-flooding-on-chaiyaphum-roads -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-05-25 - 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. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

Jelly blubbers return to southern Thailand river after 3 years Photos via ThaiRath Jelly blubbers, a kind of jellyfish, have returned to a river in Songkhla province in southern Thailand after disappearing for more than three years. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1295940-jelly-blubbers-return-to-southern-thailand-river-after-3-years/