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A prominent businessman has put a substantial parcel of land up for sale in the Ratchadaphisek area, valued at 1.5 million baht per square wah, amounting to over 11 billion baht. This prime location has attracted interest from Chinese investors keen on developing a hotel. Over 19 rai of land, located along Ratchadaphisek Road and near the Eastern Orange Line of the MRT, has been listed for urgent sale after being left vacant for several years. This land, originally totalling 28 rai, belongs to Ratchada Business District Co., a business group associated with the well-known entrepreneur Sathit Witthayakorn. Previously, eight rai were sold to the insurance giant AIA Thailand for 3.5 billion baht, setting a record price of 1.1 million baht per square wah in 2021. The remaining 19 rai of land has now been placed on the market, with the asking price set at 1.5 million baht per square wah. The total area listed for sale amounts to over 11 billion baht, although negotiations on the price are possible. Interest has been significant since the sale announcement, with notable interest from Chinese investors. The strategic location, adjacent to the Thailand Cultural Centre MRT station and the interchange between the Orange and Blue Lines, makes it an attractive site for hotel development. Sathit previously mentioned that the entire parcel of 28 rai was intended as a personal land bank. Plans had been considered for developing the remaining 20 rai into a mixed-use project, including hotels and condominiums. However, due to the current circumstances, these plans have been postponed, though the land remains available for purchase if a suitable buyer is found. Patrchai Thaveewong, Director of Research and Communication at Colliers International Thailand, noted that there has been no land transaction along Ratchadaphisek Road for over three years since AIA’s purchase at 1.1 million baht per square wah. The newly listed 19 rai is a large and high-value plot, standing out in comparison to the adjacent AIA property. “The land along Ratchadaphisek has not seen any sales activity for more than three years, which makes this sale quite significant.” The market dynamics in Ratchadaphisek are shifting, with this sale marking a potential turning point in land transactions in the area. The interest from international investors, especially from China, indicates a broader trend of foreign investment in Thailand’s burgeoning property market. As the land sale progresses, the business community and potential developers await further developments, considering the implications for future projects in this vibrant and strategically located part of Bangkok. The outcome of this sale could set a new benchmark for land prices and development opportunities in the area, influencing the direction of urban growth and investment in Thailand’s capital city, reported KhaoSod. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-14

Thailand's Loy Krathong Festival Illuminates Rivers Nationwide Picture courtesy: Media of Thailand Celebrated 15 November across Thailand, the Loy Krathong festival sees communities gather to release beautiful, candlelit offerings called krathongs onto rivers, canals, and lakes. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343505-thailands-loy-krathong-festival-illuminates-rivers-nationwide/

Picture courtesy: Media of Thailand Celebrated 15 November across Thailand, the Loy Krathong festival sees communities gather to release beautiful, candlelit offerings called krathongs onto rivers, canals, and lakes. Taking place on the full moon night of the twelfth month in the Thai lunar calendar, it typically falls in November. The festival is deeply rooted in tradition, offering a moment of reflection, gratitude, and wishes for the future. The name "Loy Krathong" translates to "float a basket," accurately describing the main activity where individuals release krathongs made from banana stalks and leaves, adorned with flowers, candles, and incense. The act is multi-symbolic: it represents paying homage to the river goddess Phra Mae Khongkha, asking forgiveness for any harm done to the waters, and wishing for good luck. Some believe it to be a form of worship to Lord Buddha or the Hindu god Vishnu. An essential aspect of the festival is its diverse regional celebrations. In Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai holds the Yee Peng Festival, where lanterns are launched into the sky, creating a breathtaking display. Meanwhile, in the Northeast, Nakhon Phanom transforms the riverbanks with Lai Reua Fai – decorated boats lit with elaborate illuminations. These variations highlight the rich cultural tapestry within Thailand. In recent years, environmental awareness has become a prominent aspect of Loy Krathong. While traditionally krathongs are crafted from biodegradable banana materials, the sheer volume can lead to waste issues. Consequently, communities are now encouraged to create krathongs from eco-friendly materials like bread, which fish can consume, or to limit the number of krathongs floated. Loy Krathong remains an enchanting celebration, capturing the delicate balance of tradition and modern environmental consciousness, inviting both locals and visitors to participate in its serene yet vibrant rituals. -- 2024-11-14

Trump's Trade Policies Threaten Thai Economy Image composite: ASEN NOW Thailand is facing potential economic challenges as former US President Donald Trump's proposed tariffs are set to impact global trade, specifically targeting countries like China, and indirectly affecting others reliant on export. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343504-trumps-trade-policies-threaten-thai-economy/

Image composite: ASEN NOW Thailand is facing potential economic challenges as former US President Donald Trump's proposed tariffs are set to impact global trade, specifically targeting countries like China, and indirectly affecting others reliant on export. Trump has proposed a significant increase in tariffs, with a 20% general tariff on imports and a hefty 60% on imports from China. While his aim is to revitalise domestic jobs in the US, the ripple effects could spell trouble for Thailand, heavily reliant on its export sector. The US is Thailand's number one export destination, accounting for 17% of its export market. China's share stands at 12%, and indirectly could be as high as 17% via re-exports through neighbouring countries like Malaysia and Singapore. These countries form essential channels for Thai products to reach global markets, making them crucial partners for Thailand's economic stability. Thailand, with exports constituting 65.4% of its GDP, would be significantly affected by any slowdown in global trade, especially with such heavyweight markets being targeted by US tariffs. During the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, Thailand's over-reliance on exports was evident when the economy contracted by 6.1%, compared to an Asean average of 3.2%. Furthermore, Trump's potential implementation of strict 'Rules of Origin' could further complicate matters, potentially limiting Thailand's capacity to mitigate tariff impacts by producing goods on behalf of foreign companies like China. These rules demand that a certain percentage of a product's components are sourced locally to qualify for tariff reductions, making it harder for countries like Thailand to bypass higher tariff costs through manufacturing collaborations. As China and Thailand both grapple with domestic issues - China with its real estate crunch and Thailand with household debts - the added pressure of altered US trade policies could push both economies towards recession, highlighting the global interconnectedness that makes such protectionist policies significantly impactful, writes Chartchai Parasuk, PhD, for Bangkok Post. -- 2024-11-14

Thailand Woos U.S. Film Crews with 30% Cash Rebate Policy Picture courtesy: 77kaoded Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has launched a 30% cash rebate scheme aimed at enticing U.S. filmmakers to shoot in Thailand, projecting this initiative will generate over 10 billion baht in spending next year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343502-thailand-woos-us-film-crews-with-30-cash-rebate-policy/

Picture courtesy: 77kaoded Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has launched a 30% cash rebate scheme aimed at enticing U.S. filmmakers to shoot in Thailand, projecting this initiative will generate over 10 billion baht in spending next year. On 12 November, Paetongtarn hosted a networking reception in Los Angeles, joined by Charles H. Rivkin, Chairman and CEO of the Motion Picture Association (MPA), along with key figures from major U.S. film studios. Highlighting Thailand’s appeal as a global filming destination, Paetongtarn noted that in the past year alone, over 450 films from 40 countries were shot in Thailand, injecting approximately 7 billion baht (USD 190 million) into the economy. American productions accounted for 34 films, making the U.S. the largest foreign contributor. The new rebate policy allows for a 30% cash rebate without an upper limit on spending per project, providing strong incentives for major studios. Rivkin and other executives from companies such as Disney, HBO, Netflix, and Sony expressed enthusiasm for Thailand’s enhanced incentives, praising the country's commitment to supporting the global film industry. Rivkin noted that the initiative elevates Thailand's standing as a premier filming location in the region and boosts international investment. He added that U.S. productions filming in Thailand contribute an estimated USD 1.3 million daily to the local economy and generate local employment. Paetongtarn's dialogue with top executives, including Disney’s Cathleen Taff, HBO’s Jay Roewe, Amazon’s Vernon Sanders, NBCUniversal’s Chris Miller, and Paramount’s Sharon Keyser, aimed to strengthen Thailand's cultural presence on the global stage, reported 77kaoded. These partnerships are set to support Thailand’s soft power strategy, enriching its creative industry and enhancing the economy through increased investment from abroad. The new rebate scheme is part of Thailand’s strategy to position itself as a leading hub for international film production, with hopes that increased investment will also contribute to local skill development and job creation within the Thai film industry. Executives from the 7 film companies who talked to the Prime Minister, they are as follows: 1. Mr. Charles H. Rivkin, President and CEO, Motion Picture Association of America 2. Ms. Cathleen Taff, President, Distribution, Franchise and Audience Analytics, The Walt Disney Company; 3. Mr. Jay Roewe, Senior Vice President, Production Planning and Incentives, HBO/HBO MAX and Warner Bros. Pictures 4. Mr. Vernon Sanders, Head of Television, Amazon/MGM Studios 5. Mr. Chris Miller, General Counsel, NBCUniversal Studio Group; 6. Mr. David Hyman, Chief Legal Officer, Netflix Studios 7. Ms. Jill Ratner, General Counsel, Sony Pictures Entertainment 8. Ms. Sharon Keyser, Senior Vice President Government Relations and Planning, Paramount Pictures Corporation” -- 2024-11-14

DSI Nabs Nigerian Crime Ring Leader in 50M Baht Horse Account Scam Picture courtesy: Daily News In a significant crackdown, Thailand's Department of Special Investigation (DSI) arrested a Nigerian national believed to be a central figure in a major fraud network involving horse accounts across the country, causing damages estimated at over 50 million baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343493-dsi-nabs-nigerian-crime-ring-leader-in-50m-baht-horse-account-scam/

Picture courtesy: Daily News In a significant crackdown, Thailand's Department of Special Investigation (DSI) arrested a Nigerian national believed to be a central figure in a major fraud network involving horse accounts across the country, causing damages estimated at over 50 million baht. The operation, dubbed "Operation Black Horse Down," targeted a gang combining Thai and Nigerian nationals who orchestrated romance scams and opened horse accounts nationwide for various criminal activities. This network has been linked to call centre scams, romance fraud, and drug-related offences, with an estimated 1,200 million baht in transactions and over 1,000 horse accounts involved. Following a criminal court warrant for eight suspects, on 8 October 2024, the DSI joined forces with Thailand’s Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) and forensic agencies to raid five locations. Six suspects, including Nigerian and Thai nationals, were detained in connection with these fraudulent activities. On 13 November 2024, DSI investigators expanded their inquiry and discovered that Mr. Christian (surname withheld), a Nigerian national and the alleged leader of the network, was detained by the Bureau of Immigration Police. Acting on the court warrant, the DSI charged him with fraud, including impersonation, computer fraud, and money laundering. Picture courtesy: Daily News As the investigation continues, DSI is collaborating with AMLO to trace the financial routes and seize related assets linked to the network. Preliminary findings suggest additional accomplices, both Thai and foreign nationals, are still at large. The DSI also issued a public warning about the severe legal consequences of opening horse accounts, which can lead to criminal charges. Under Thailand’s new Cybercrime Act of 2023, individuals aiding fraud operations may face up to three years in prison, a fine of up to 300,000 baht, or both. The DSI encourages the public to report fraudulent activities via their website (www.dsi.go.th) under the “Report Fraud” section, to support legal actions against offenders, reported Siam Rath. -- 2024-11-14

Thaksin Delivers First Speech in 18 Years, Denies Interfering with PM Picture courtesy: Siam Rath On 13 November at Wat Sri Nakaram in Udon Thani’s Kumphawapi district, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra made his first public speech in 18 years, urging voters to remember his name if they cannot recall Srawut’s when voting. He also reassured the crowd that he is not influencing Prime Minister Paetongtarn "Ing" Shinawatra. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343489-thaksin-delivers-first-speech-in-18-years-denies-interfering-with-pm/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath On 13 November at Wat Sri Nakaram in Udon Thani’s Kumphawapi district, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra made his first public speech in 18 years, urging voters to remember his name if they cannot recall Srawut’s when voting. He also reassured the crowd that he is not influencing Prime Minister Paetongtarn "Ing" Shinawatra. In his speech, Thaksin praised Ing, saying he had seen leadership potential in her from a young age. He also expressed optimism about achieving the government’s minimum wage increase target to THB 400. Addressing the crowd of red-shirt supporters, Thaksin spoke warmly of his fondness for Udon Thani residents, recalling that many owned buffaloes when he left Thailand 18 years ago. Thaksin shared personal reflections, saying that his years abroad required resilience and meditation to stay balanced. He committed to supporting the local Buddhist community and encouraged people to focus on family well-being, steer clear of excessive gambling, and avoid debt traps. He explained how Ing has been dedicated to addressing household debt and poverty. Thaksin denied any interference in Ing’s political decisions, describing his approach as respectful of her independence. Instead, he focuses on providing guidance and support. Thaksin reiterated his strong stance against the drug trade, vowing to address it in collaboration with the police force, aiming to end corruption in police appointments and to eliminate illegal drugs from Thai communities. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath He reflected on the significant changes Thailand has undergone and expressed a commitment to improving education and job opportunities. He urged the public to embrace local development, particularly in rural areas, to combat poverty and empower the population. With confidence in the ruling coalition, Thaksin pledged to continue his involvement in Thai politics in a supportive capacity and affirmed his commitment to the Thai people. As he concluded, Thaksin humorously described his self-appointed role as “Supervisor of All Issues,” vowing to visit Udon Thani again, reported Siam Rath. -- 2024-11-14

Indians Ignore Police Summons After Pattaya Beach Brawl Picture courtesy Superball Thongma News via FM91 Recently, a group of seven Indian men failed to attend a scheduled police questioning following their alleged assault on three others, including the organiser of a Diwali festival on Pattaya beach, Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343487-indians-ignore-police-summons-after-pattaya-beach-brawl/

Picture courtesy Superball Thongma News via FM91 Recently, a group of seven Indian men failed to attend a scheduled police questioning following their alleged assault on three others, including the organiser of a Diwali festival on Pattaya beach, Thailand. This incident occurred during the festival held between 8th November and 10th November. The lawyer representing the victims has confirmed that the individuals in question did not respond to official summons issued by the authorities. The Diwali celebration was a collaborative effort by three Indian associations in Pattaya, designed to bring together both Indian locals and tourists for a joyous event. However, the festive atmosphere turned sour on the final day as, amidst clearing up, the event organisers found themselves unexpectedly accosted by this group. A physical confrontation ensued, during which the primary target appeared to be Mr. Dio Singh, a prominent figure within the Chonburi Indian Association. Mr. Singh, who organised the event, recounted the unexpected violence, stating the aggressors surrounded and punched them repeatedly. Despite police intervention, the skirmish escalated when additional individuals joined the assailants in a later altercation. Remarkably, Mr. Singh noted that one of his attackers had previously been seen taking photos and videos of the festival, leading him to suspect a premeditated motive. Picture courtesy Superball Thongma News via FM91 As a result of this incident, Mr. Singh was adamant about pursuing legal action against the suspects, citing an unprovoked attack. The violence also inadvertently affected bystanders attempting to intervene, including women and children, highlighting the reckless nature of the assault. The victims have, with their lawyer's assistance, provided surveillance footage to aid the ongoing investigation. The Pattaya City police are continuing their inquiry into this matter, seeking to understand the motivations behind the attack and ensure justice is served, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-11-14

Four Alleged Ugandan and Tanzanian Prostitutes Arrested in Patong By Goongnang Suksawat Phuket – Three Ugandans and one Tanzanian national were arrested on the Bangla Road in Patong on Wednesday (November 13th). FFull story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343486-four-alleged-ugandan-and-tanzanian-prostitutes-arrested-in-patong/

Phuket – Three Ugandans and one Tanzanian national were arrested on the Bangla Road in Patong on Wednesday (November 13th). Phuket Immigration told the Phuket Express that they arrested four alleged foreign prostitutes. They were identified by police only as Ms. Kembabazi, 34, Ms. Nancige, 27, and Ms. Ajambo, 22. All of them are Ugandan nationals. The other is Ms. Sangana, 29, a Tanzanian national. Officers saw them when they were talking to foreign men and were allegedly offering sexual services to those foreign men. Officers then arrested all four of them. The suspects also reportedly later admitted to the police that they were prostitutes. Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS -- 2024-11-14

Thai man arrested over death threat to kindergarten students in Isaan The suspect is in the whit shirt. | Photo via Matichon Police arrested a Thai man in Nonthaburi province near Bangkok yesterday after he posted a death threat against kindergarten students in the Isaan province of Maha Sarakham on a Facebook group. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343468-thai-man-arrested-over-death-threat-to-kindergarten-students-in-isaan/

Thaksin's Hospital Stay Under Scrutiny as Agency Delays Inquiry File photo courtesy: Facebook Thairath TV Thaksin Shinawatra's controversial six-month hospital stay has caught the attention of Thailand's National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), but a formal inquiry isn't likely until February, according to Jakkrit Tanlert, an assistant NACC secretary-general. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343470-thaksins-hospital-stay-under-scrutiny-as-agency-delays-inquiry/

Supreme Court Blocks Ex-Police Gen Surachate's Bid to Overturn Dismissal File photo for reference only In a decisive turn of events today, high-ranking police officer Pol Gen Surachate Hakparn suffered a blow to his hopes of reinstatement within the police force, after a strong majority in the Supreme Administrative Court rejected his appeal against his dismissal. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343475-supreme-court-blocks-ex-police-gen-surachates-bid-to-overturn-dismissal/

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 14 November 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1343463-thailand-live-thursday-14-november-2024/

Shocking cruelty: Child abuse claims haunt Chiang Mai orphanage Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The Social Development and Human Security Ministry (MSDHS) is set to revoke the licence of an orphanage foundation in Chiang Mai following allegations of child abuse. Minister Varawut Silpa-archa announced the decision after a former caregiver reported that employees at the orphanage had been physically punishing children aged three to six for several years. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343479-shocking-cruelty-child-abuse-claims-haunt-chiang-mai-orphanage/

Pattaya Wind Turbine Project Abandoned; New Landmark Proposed A 95 million baht renewable energy project in Pattaya has been abandoned after years of neglect, leaving its wind turbines in a state of disrepair. Initially intended to alleviate energy shortages and boost tourism, this once-ambitious project has now become a symbol of squandered potential and oversight. Picture courtesy: Opt News Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343462-pattaya-wind-turbine-project-abandoned-new-landmark-proposed/

Funai Factory Closure Leaves 831 Jobless, Workers Await Compensation Picture courtesy: Kapook Over 800 employees have been left in limbo following the sudden shutdown of Funai (Thailand) Co's factory in Nakhon Ratchasima. This development follows a bankruptcy plan approval for its Japanese parent company, Funai Electric, on October 24th. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343474-funai-factory-closure-leaves-831-jobless-workers-await-compensation/

Picture courtesy: Kapook Over 800 employees have been left in limbo following the sudden shutdown of Funai (Thailand) Co's factory in Nakhon Ratchasima. This development follows a bankruptcy plan approval for its Japanese parent company, Funai Electric, on October 24th. The Thai subsidiary declared its inability to import essential production materials, leading to its closure on November 14th, as mentioned in a statement from their facility in Pak Chong district dated November 8th. In response to this, local authorities from the Pak Chong district office, the Nakhon Ratchasima provincial labour office, and the provincial security office have set up registration booths to assist laid-off workers in filing for benefits. On Wednesday, a large number of former employees arrived at the factory seeking assistance, yet none had received compensation at that time. Apichart Suethuen, a senior production manager among the 831 affected workers, noted Wednesday as their last working day. He mentioned that all employees would seek unemployment benefits, but the company admitted it couldn't afford immediate payouts. One worker, Pucharas, shared her experience, having worked at Funai for 19 years. She received a notice of 190,000 baht in compensation, yet details on the payment timeline remained unclear. Initially, the company had promised compensation within 90 days. Pucharas and others demanded adherence to this timeline, stressing their financial obligations and difficulties in finding new jobs, especially for older workers. The unresolved situation, including failure to receive legal compensations and rumours of insufficient company funds, has left the 831 workers anxious and frustrated. Many have threatened to approach the provincial labour office if the promised payments are not made within the stipulated period. The abrupt factory closure starkly underscores the challenges workers face amidst corporate financial collapses, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-11-13

Thaksin's Hospital Stay Under Scrutiny as Agency Delays Inquiry File photo courtesy: Facebook Thairath TV Thaksin Shinawatra's controversial six-month hospital stay has caught the attention of Thailand's National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), but a formal inquiry isn't likely until February, according to Jakkrit Tanlert, an assistant NACC secretary-general. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343470-thaksins-hospital-stay-under-scrutiny-as-agency-delays-inquiry/

File photo courtesy: Facebook Thairath TV Thaksin Shinawatra's controversial six-month hospital stay has caught the attention of Thailand's National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), but a formal inquiry isn't likely until February, according to Jakkrit Tanlert, an assistant NACC secretary-general. The hospital arrangement is under suspicion as a possible ruse to avoid prison time, raising questions of privilege and propriety. Despite setting up an ad hoc committee to gather evidence, the NACC has hit a roadblock. Information from Police Hospital, where Thaksin stayed supposedly as a critically ill patient, is scant. Beyond receiving two million baht in hospital bills, the committee is waiting for detailed disclosures on Thaksin’s health status and medical treatments. This delay occurs against the backdrop of public demand for transparency. The Network of Students and People for Thailand Reform questioned the apparent leniency afforded to Thaksin, especially following an eight-year sentence for abuse of power, later reduced to one year by royal pardon. His stay at Police Hospital, thought to be orchestrated to evade prison cells, remains clouded in secrecy under the guise of privacy concerns. Meanwhile, Thaksin, the influential figure within the Pheu Thai Party, has returned from 17 years abroad and recently visited Udorn Thani. There, he rallied support for Pheu Thai candidate Saravut Petpanomporn in the upcoming provincial race against rival Khanisorn Khurirang, scheduled for 24th November. Udorn Thani, a stronghold of the Red Shirt movement and pro-Pheu Thai sympathisers, largely backed Thaksin’s candidates in the previous general elections. This political mobilisation highlights Thaksin's enduring influence in Thai politics, as the nation awaits the graft agency's decision. Until then, the matter of his hospitalisation and justice remains unresolved, fuelling debate over fairness and corruption within the system, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-11-13