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PATTAYA (NNT) - Officials from the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) Region 2, alongside the mayor of Pattaya City, have carried out an inspection of an unfinished sports stadium construction site. The visit came after complaints and reports that the project has been left incomplete for over 15 years, resulting in equipment and electrical appliances being left to deteriorate without maintenance. During the inspection, Supoj Sri Ngarm-muang, the deputy secretary of the NACC Region 2 office, and his team discussed the need for close supervision and inspection of the project with Pattaya City officials. The discussions centered around the preparation of terms of reference (TOR), inviting bids from new contractors, drafting of new construction contracts, budget allocation, and other related matters. The project’s delay had been attributed to the presence of large stones on the field surface, which were difficult to excavate and drill. This led to military engineers being hired to complete phase 2 of the project, which cost 536 million baht and was completed on schedule. However, phase 3, with a budget of 398 million baht, was further delayed due to a shortage of workers caused by the Covid-19 outbreak. Pattaya City Mayor Poramase Ngampiches has stressed the importance of completing the unfinished sports stadium project and asked the Pattaya City Council for three-year budget approval to hire new contractors. The council has approved the first installment of 328 million baht, which is currently in the procurement process before the bidding and hiring of contractors. To ensure the project’s success, the Public Procurement and Supplies Committee is working in parallel. Source: https://thainews.prd.go.th/en/news/detail/TCATG230428144408044 -- © Copyright NNT 2023-04-28 - 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.

Trang Announces Sustainable Tourism Development Plans for Koh Kradan TRANG (NNT) - Plans have been announced to develop Koh Kradan in Trang province into a major tourism destination with minimal environmental impact. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1293401-trang-announces-sustainable-tourism-development-plans-for-koh-kradan/

TRANG (NNT) - Plans have been announced to develop Koh Kradan in Trang province into a major tourism destination with minimal environmental impact. Trang Governor Kajornsak Charoensopha announced development plans for Koh Kradan on April 26, following discussions with the public and private sectors. He said an 8 million baht budget will also be allocated to establish a sustainable tourism center where visitors may access housing, food, and other facilities as they visit the island. A permanent management team under Hat Chao Mai National Park will be established to oversee activities in Koh Kradan and manage the number of tourists to ensure environmental safety. Diving operations will be conducted to explore coral reefs and collect garbage from seabeds around the island. The announcement comes after the beach saw an increase in visitors this month shortly after being ranked No. 1 in the Top 100 Beaches on Earth by the UK’s World Beach Guide. However, authorities and the general public are concerned about the sudden influx of tourists and have agreed that a strategy must be put in place to ensure that the island’s 2.4 square kilometer area does not suffer catastrophic environmental damage. Koh Kradan, as well as neighboring Koh Chuak, Koh Waen, and Koh Muk islands, will be closed for annual rehabilitation from June 1 to September 30. Tourists are welcome to visit the islands during the tourist season, which runs from October 1 to May 31. Source: https://thainews.prd.go.th/en/news/detail/TCATG230428143005027 -- © Copyright NNT 2023-04-28 - 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 Offers Free Covid-19 Booster Shots to People in Risk Groups BANGKOK (NNT) - The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is offering free Covid-19 booster shots to people who are in high-risk groups in order to reduce the risk of severe symptoms and fatality. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1293400-bangkok-offers-free-covid-19-booster-shots-to-people-in-risk-groups/

BANGKOK (NNT) - The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is offering free Covid-19 booster shots to people who are in high-risk groups in order to reduce the risk of severe symptoms and fatality. Dr. Anutra Chittinandana, chairman of the Royal College of Physicians of Thailand and an adviser to the Bangkok governor, stated that the BMA is concerned for people who has a high risk of developing severe symptoms after contracting the new Covid-19 strain. These people include people over 60 years of age, pregnant women, and patients with chronic conditions. He strongly advised these people to obtain a booster shot as soon as possible, as it will greatly reduce their risk of severe symptoms and death. To help reduce these risks, the BMA has opened a vaccination center at Public Health Service Center 6 (Women’s Culture Association Building) in the Dusit district to provide free booster shots for high-risk groups. People who have not been vaccinated are also encouraged to get vaccinations for free at public health service centers in Bangkok every Wednesday from 9 AM to 3 PM. The BMA has also set up a mobile vaccination unit to provide services to accommodate people who couldn’t travel to health centers at the Atrium zone of the CentralWorld department store. The unit opens from noon to 6 PM on Fridays and Saturdays from April 28 to May 28. The unit, however, will be closed during the election weekend of May 13-14. People can visit the BMA’s Facebook page at facebook.com/bma.health for more information. Source: https://thainews.prd.go.th/en/news/detail/TCATG230428142559018 -- © Copyright NNT 2023-04-28 - 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.

Myanmar migrants arrested for illegally crossing into Thailand PHOTO: Flickr Forty-two job seekers from Myanmar were detained after crossing the border illegally into Sangkhla Buri district late Wednesday night, according to Thai authorities. The group was discovered following an alert in a forested area close to Song Kalia village, in Tambon Nong Lu. However, the individuals had fled the scene by the time officers arrived. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1293399-myanmar-migrants-arrested-for-illegally-crossing-into-thailand/

PHOTO: Flickr Forty-two job seekers from Myanmar were detained after crossing the border illegally into Sangkhla Buri district late Wednesday night, according to Thai authorities. The group was discovered following an alert in a forested area close to Song Kalia village, in Tambon Nong Lu. However, the individuals had fled the scene by the time officers arrived. Subsequently, the informant advised that the group had taken a vehicle towards a pier at Wat Wang Wiwekaram, located in Wang Ka village in Tambon Nong Lu. The officers later located the men and women congregating near Vajiralongkorn Dam, situated behind the pier. Upon noticing the authorities, the group attempted to escape into a nearby forest, but all 42 individuals – 27 men and 15 women – were apprehended. Each person was identified as a Myanmar national lacking the appropriate travel documentation. Upon being questioned, the detainees revealed they had travelled from various regions in Myanmar, such as Mandalay, Bago, and Yangon. They entered Thailand through a natural crossing in Sangkhla Buri, with their intended destinations being Bangkok, Chon Buri, Phuket, Samut Prakan, Samut Sakhon, and Rayong for employment. Some even had job offers in Malaysia. Full Story: https://thethaiger.com/news/national/myanmar-migrants-arrested-for-illegally-crossing-into-thailand -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-04-28 - 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.

Activist seeks to impeach NACC members over luxury watch saga investigation Activist Veera Somkwamkid announced his intention to impeach members of the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) for disregarding a court order that required them to divulge details about their investigation into the luxury wristwatch saga involving Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwon. Veera accused the NACC of defying the Supreme Administrative Court’s order in an interview, stating that the court had ruled that disclosure must be completed within 15 days of the order, which was passed on Friday, April 21. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1293398-activist-seeks-to-impeach-nacc-members-over-luxury-watch-saga-investigation/

Activist Veera Somkwamkid announced his intention to impeach members of the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) for disregarding a court order that required them to divulge details about their investigation into the luxury wristwatch saga involving Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwon. Veera accused the NACC of defying the Supreme Administrative Court’s order in an interview, stating that the court had ruled that disclosure must be completed within 15 days of the order, which was passed on Friday, April 21. The NACC reportedly chose not to reveal its probe’s details in a 5-to-1 vote on Wednesday, suggesting that they might need to consult the Constitutional Court for interpretation assistance. The commission cited the presence of several individuals’ confidential accounts in the case as the reason behind the decision and indicated that they might need the Constitutional Court’s opinion on how far they can go in terms of revealing details. Back in December 2018, the NACC determined that there were no grounds for allegations that Prawit had falsely declared his wealth when he failed to include 22 luxury watches and rings in his list of assets. Prawit claimed that the items belonged to friends and had since been returned. Veera subsequently petitioned the Supreme Administrative Court, which granted the order for disclosure. Veera, in collaboration with Somchai Srisutthiyakorn, chairman of Seri Ruam Thai’s policy steering committee and former election commissioner, intends to organise a campaign to collect at least 20,000 signatures, to initiate the impeachment process against the commissioners for failing to adhere to the order. On his Facebook page, Veera also claimed that the NACC, as an anti-graft agency, was disregarding the very law they are meant to uphold. Full Story: https://thethaiger.com/news/national/activist-seeks-to-impeach-nacc-members-over-luxury-watch-saga-investigation -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-04-28 - 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.

China may loan Thailand another panda once cause of Lin Hui’s death confirmed PHOTO: Facebook_สวนสัตว์เชียงใหม่ Chiang Mai Zoo Does China have a spare panda? The Chinese consulate in Chiang Mai says China might send another giant panda to Thailand, once they’ve confirmed the cause of death of a panda loaned to the kingdom in 2003. Lin Hui died at Chiang Mai Zoo on April 19, at the age of 21. Giant pandas normally live to between 15 and 20 years old in the wild, but can live to around 30 years in captivity. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1293397-china-may-loan-thailand-another-panda-once-cause-of-lin-hui’s-death-confirmed/

PHOTO: Facebook_สวนสัตว์เชียงใหม่ Chiang Mai Zoo Does China have a spare panda? The Chinese consulate in Chiang Mai says China might send another giant panda to Thailand, once they’ve confirmed the cause of death of a panda loaned to the kingdom in 2003. Lin Hui died at Chiang Mai Zoo on April 19, at the age of 21. Giant pandas normally live to between 15 and 20 years old in the wild, but can live to around 30 years in captivity. On Wednesday, the seventh day after Lin Hui’s death, the zoo held a merit-making ceremony to say goodbye to the zoos most popular guest, the giant panda. Nation Thailand reports that around 20 monks presided over the ceremony, which was attended by Chinese Consul General Wu Zhiwu, the governor of Chiang Mai, Weerapong Ritrod, and Chiang Mai Zoo director, Wuthichai Muangman. Following the ceremony, Wu confirmed that China is happy with the level of care Lin Hui received at the zoo and that an autopsy will be carried out to determine the cause of her death. He did not rule out the possibility of Thailand being given another giant panda. Full Story: https://phuket-go.com/phuket-news/national-news/china-may-loan-thailand-another-panda-once-cause-of-lin-huis-death-confirmed/ -- © Copyright Phuket GO 2023-04-28 - 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 AirAsia says planned restructuring will not affect business in Thailand Flickr/Rattaphol Kerdkaen Following recent murmurings from AirAsia founder Tony Fernandes that he plans to shift his focus away from aviation, Thai AirAsia has offered assurances that operations in the kingdom will not be affected. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1293395-thai-airasia-says-planned-restructuring-will-not-affect-business-in-thailand/

Flickr/Rattaphol Kerdkaen Following recent murmurings from AirAsia founder Tony Fernandes that he plans to shift his focus away from aviation, Thai AirAsia has offered assurances that operations in the kingdom will not be affected. Tassapon Bijleveld from Asia Aviation, holding company of Thai AirAsia, says that although Mr Fernandes has hinted at shifting his attention to other business streams, he will continue to guide the aviation business in the interim. According to a Bangkok Post report, Tassapon says the restructuring set to take place in Malaysia will create a more consolidated aviation group. He’s confident Thai AirAsia’s operations, and those of Thai AirAsiaX, will not be affected as they operate according to their own individual business plans. Full Story: https://phuket-go.com/phuket-news/national-news/thai-airasia-says-planned-restructuring-will-not-affect-business-in-thailand/ -- © Copyright Phuket GO 2023-04-28 - 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.

American Comedian Star Conan O’Brien Enjoys His Time in Thailand Renowned American comedian Conan O’Brien is currently filming for his future broadcasts in Bangkok, Thailand. He seemed to very much enjoy his time, as evidenced by his frequent tweets about his recent adventures, which include trying out Muay Thai, donning traditional clothing, and even eating scorpions. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1293394-american-comedian-star-conan-o’brien-enjoys-his-time-in-thailand/

Renowned American comedian Conan O’Brien is currently filming for his future broadcasts in Bangkok, Thailand. He seemed to very much enjoy his time, as evidenced by his frequent tweets about his recent adventures, which include trying out Muay Thai, donning traditional clothing, and even eating scorpions. Last Tuesday, O’Brien tried out an exotic scorpion snack in Thailand, which was actually not his first time as he tweeted that the Thai scorpion is “So much better than the scorpion I get at the Glendale Galleria.” The former late-night talk show host also shared pictures of himself wearing a full ceremonial Thai outfit and fully immersing himself in a Muay Thai session. His caption read, “I need to register my legs at the Bangkok police station.” Full Story: https://thepattayanews.com/2023/04/28/american-comedian-star-conan-obrien-enjoys-his-time-in-thailand/ -- © Copyright The Pattaya News 2023-04-28 - 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.

Thailand to Propose Andaman Sea & Historical Parks as UNESCO Sites BANGKOK (NNT) - Thailand is working to obtain World Heritage status for the Andaman Sea and two historical parks in order to preserve these areas while boosting the local economy and tourism. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1293393-thailand-to-propose-andaman-sea-historical-parks-as-unesco-sites/

BANGKOK (NNT) - Thailand is working to obtain World Heritage status for the Andaman Sea and two historical parks in order to preserve these areas while boosting the local economy and tourism. According to Deputy Government Spokesperson Lt Gen Patchachsak Pareupanon, the National Committee on the Protection of World Heritage meeting chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Gen Prawit Wongsuwan has agreed to nominate the Andaman Sea conservation area for selection as a World Heritage Site. He said that if the conservation area, which includes parts of Ranong, Phang Nga, and Phuket provinces, is designated as a World Heritage Site, it could boost tourism and economic opportunities for residents in the region. The deputy spokesperson stated that the meeting also review the progress of the nomination for Si Thep Historical Park in Petchabun province and Phu Phra Bat historical park in Udon Thani province. The committee has considered and approved documents related to the nomination for the meeting of the World Heritage Committee which will be held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from September 10-25. The meeting also discussed development plans for other areas such as Phetchaburi, Takua Pa, Mae Hong Son, Kanchanaburi, Yala, and other historical locations. Related authorities have been assigned to oversee the issues discussed at the meeting, as well as make preparations for the development and preservation of these historical sites. Source: https://thainews.prd.go.th/en/news/detail/TCATG230428150824069 -- © Copyright NNT 2023-04-28 - 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.

PM Welcomes Home First Batch of Thais Returning from Sudan BANGKOK (NNT) - Prime Minister Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha and Deputy Prime Minister Don Pramatwinai have welcomed 78 Thai citizens returning from war-torn Sudan at Don Mueang Royal Thai Air Force Base. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1293392-pm-welcomes-home-first-batch-of-thais-returning-from-sudan/

BANGKOK (NNT) - Prime Minister Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha and Deputy Prime Minister Don Pramatwinai have welcomed 78 Thai citizens returning from war-torn Sudan at Don Mueang Royal Thai Air Force Base. The group included 71 students from southern border provinces, and everyone arrived safely. The Prime Minister expressed his gratitude to all involved agencies, thanked Egypt and Saudi Arabia for their successful cooperation, and inquired about the passengers’ travel experience, education, and the reopening of the academic year. Upon arrival, the group underwent immigration checks and health screenings before being taken to their hotels. Those with residences in southern regions have been scheduled to board a C-130 aircraft provided by the Royal Thai Air Force to return to their hometowns on April 28th. The Royal Thai Air Force task force remains in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, coordinating with the Royal Thai Embassy in Riyadh to assist the next group of Thai citizens departing from the Port of Sudan. The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of the safety of Thai citizens and the safe return of those wishing to come home. Officials have also indicated that another batch of 66 Thais in Sudan have already arrived in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, waiting to be extracted. The remaining 132 Thais will be picked up by the Royal Thai Air Force using an Airbus A340-500. All 198 Thais will return to Thailand tomorrow night (April 29th). Source: https://thainews.prd.go.th/en/news/detail/TCATG230428145820059 -- © Copyright NNT 2023-04-28 - 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.

Thailand’s Fuel Consumption Surpasses 2019 Levels BANGKOK (NNT) - Thailand’s fuel consumption has increased to a level higher than that of 2019, as reported by the Department of Energy Business (DOEB). Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1293391-thailand’s-fuel-consumption-surpasses-2019-levels/

Operators Voice Concerns over New Visa Rules for Chinese Tourists BANGKOK (NNT) - Inbound tourism operators in Thailand are calling for clarity on new visa procedures, which they believe could have significant impacts on travel activities for tour groups and large meetings and incentive groups catering to the Chinese market. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1293388-operators-voice-concerns-over-new-visa-rules-for-chinese-tourists/

BANGKOK (NNT) - Thailand’s fuel consumption has increased to a level higher than that of 2019, as reported by the Department of Energy Business (DOEB). The increase follows a two-year consecutive drop due to the pandemic’s impact. From January to March, fuel demand rose by 5.65% to an average of 161 million liters per day (MLD) compared to the 151 MLD in the first quarter of last year. DOEB Director-General Nanthika Thangsupanich attributed the increase to the lifting of lockdown measures that led to business recovery and the full reopening of the country, which boosted tourism. Nanthika stated that diesel consumption slightly rose by 0.2% year-on-year to 76.4 MLD, while gasoline and gasohol demand increased by 6.6% to 31.7 MLD. Jet fuel recorded the highest growth, with consumption skyrocketing by 95% year-on-year to 14 MLD, up from 7.1 MLD. The easing of Covid-19 infections resulted in more active air travel. According to the DOEB Director-General, the growth in oil consumption should align with GDP growth, driven by the domestic economic recovery. Thai officials are also drafting a National Oil Plan to shift from fossil fuels to cleaner fuels, including biofuel and electric vehicles. One of the plans is to make gasohol E20 the primary fuel at petrol stations instead of gasohol E10, also known as gasohol 91, which will be gradually phased out. Source: https://thainews.prd.go.th/en/news/detail/TCATG230428144937049 -- © Copyright NNT 2023-04-28 - 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.

Operators Voice Concerns over New Visa Rules for Chinese Tourists BANGKOK (NNT) - Inbound tourism operators in Thailand are calling for clarity on new visa procedures, which they believe could have significant impacts on travel activities for tour groups and large meetings and incentive groups catering to the Chinese market. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1293388-operators-voice-concerns-over-new-visa-rules-for-chinese-tourists/

BANGKOK (NNT) - Inbound tourism operators in Thailand are calling for clarity on new visa procedures, which they believe could have significant impacts on travel activities for tour groups and large meetings and incentive groups catering to the Chinese market. Effective May 8, the Thai Consular Office in China will require every visitor to apply for an individual visa, regardless of whether they travel under the escort of a tour group. Additionally, the number of applicants per travel agent will be limited, and applicants must submit a hotel reservation document and a financial document showing at least 10,000 yuan. Some agents can only reserve visa applications three days a week with 20-30 applicants per round. The new visa rules also require travel agents to present a certified document allowing foreign visa applications and a "yellow card" issued by the Chinese government, which must be renewed every one or two years. However, many Chinese agents’ cards expired during the pandemic, and the slow renewal process caused by a lack of officers made it impossible to renew them. There are concerns that these new regulations could prompt Chinese travelers to opt for other destinations like Vietnam, Hong Kong, or Macau, affecting Thailand’s target of attracting 5 million Chinese visitors this year. The Association of Thai Travel Agents also reported that Chinese tourists have been overcharged by taxi drivers in Thailand, noting that the issue could further compound concerns over the new visa procedures that have been introduced for the Chinese market. Source: https://thainews.prd.go.th/en/news/detail/TCATG230428143828037 -- © Copyright NNT 2023-04-28 - 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.

KMITL Holds "Innovation Expo 2023" to Support Thai Innovation BANGKOK (NNT) - King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang (KMITL) has organized the "KMITL Innovation Expo 2023" under the theme "World Towards Sustainability Together" to support Thai innovation on the global stage and sustainability. The expo, held from April 27 to 29, showcased 1,111 world-class innovations and research achievements from Thai individuals and KMITL. It also included 126 workshops and a forum for knowledge exchange. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1293387-kmitl-holds-innovation-expo-2023-to-support-thai-innovation/