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Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, along with Vice Minister for the Office of the Prime Minister Nahathai Tiwphaingam and Rayong Governor Traipob Wongtrairat, visited the delayed U-Tapao Airport and Eastern Aviation City development project sites yesterday to assess ongoing progress. Tharit Issarayangyun, Deputy Secretary-General of the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), provided a comprehensive progress update on the project, which is part of the government’s strategy to standardise the aviation industry and stimulate investments in the EEC. Progress was divided into two categories: civil and private sectors. According to Tharit, the Royal Thai Navy (RTN) is responsible for certain elements of the project. Recently, the RTN approved a budget of 16.2 billion baht for development, including the construction of the second runway and taxiway. The RTN is currently in the process of selecting contractors and consultants for this construction. Regarding the project’s utility infrastructure managed by the state, more than 95% progress has been reported. Key installations, including the first phase of a water supply plant and a wastewater treatment system, have been completed, said Tharit. “A 15-megawatt solar power plant, along with electricity and cooling systems, is nearing completion. Moreover, the construction of the aircraft refuelling service systems is at the halfway mark.” On the private sector side, the EEC intends to speed up the process by issuing a notice to proceed with the construction of the third terminal building, a secondary concourse, and a shopping centre this year. Tharit mentioned that the entire project is expected to take five years to complete, with U-Tapao Airport and Eastern Aviation City projected to open in 2029. Tharit acknowledged the delays that have pushed the project timeline forward. “Originally, the plan was to commence construction in 2019 and complete it this year.” In related news, government officials anticipate finalising the revised contract for the EEC high-speed rail system by next month, paving the way for the project’s next phase. This high-speed rail system, a cornerstone project for the EEC, aims to connect Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi, and U-Tapao airports. by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Wikapedia Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-15 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Disney fights Thai doctor’s death lawsuit, citing husband’s agreement Photo via Facebook/ Jeffrey Piccolo Multinational conglomerate Walt Disney dismissed a lawsuit filed by the husband of a Thai doctor who died after dining at a Disney restaurant in Florida, claiming that her husband agreed to settle any disputes with Disney outside of court when he signed up for the Disney+ streaming service. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335494-disney-fights-thai-doctor’s-death-lawsuit-citing-husband’s-agreement/

Thailand Orders Tighter Checks on Chinese Imports Amid Quality Concerns File photo courtesy: Banmuang The Thai Industrial Standards Institute (TISI) has been instructed by the Ministry of Industry to intensify quality inspections on more than 1,000 Chinese-made products sold online in Thailand. This move comes as local industrialists voice concerns over the impact of substandard and cheap imports from China on domestic markets. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335524-thailand-orders-tighter-checks-on-chinese-imports-amid-quality-concerns/

File photo courtesy: Banmuang The Thai Industrial Standards Institute (TISI) has been instructed by the Ministry of Industry to intensify quality inspections on more than 1,000 Chinese-made products sold online in Thailand. This move comes as local industrialists voice concerns over the impact of substandard and cheap imports from China on domestic markets. Industry Minister Pimpatra Wichaikul announced that the government is also considering imposing taxes on E-commerce dealing with Chinese products. The aim is to create a level playing field for local producers who currently shoulder tax obligations that their Chinese competitors do not. Between last September and July this year, TISI seized substandard goods worth over 300 million baht, with about 29%—valued at roughly 92 million baht—originating from China. TISI Secretary-General Wanchai Panomchai highlighted that an additional 1,400 products have been added to the list subject to quality standards, expanding the list from the existing 2,722 items, to ensure public safety. TISI officials have also been engaging with delivery services to educate them on legal and customs requirements to curb the influx of substandard goods. The quality and pricing of Chinese fresh produce, arriving via the China-Laos high-speed train, are attracting Thai consumers and significantly affecting local farmers. Nakhon Ratchasima's fresh markets are witnessing a surge in Chinese fruits and vegetables, offering better quality and lower prices compared to local produce. Sa-ngad Sardmaroeng, a greengrocer at Mae Kim Heng fresh market, noted the economic advantage of Chinese vegetables, which are cheaper, more varied, and available year-round. She mentioned that a pack of Origi mushrooms costs her just 10 baht, allowing her to sell it for 20 baht, a deal local farmers struggle to match. Chinese imports, which arrive within a day via the high-speed train, are priced approximately 50% lower than local products. This price gap is a significant factor driving consumer preference, potentially undermining Thai agricultural businesses. In summary, the Thai government is stepping up efforts to regulate the quality and fair trade of Chinese imports, aiming to protect domestic industries. -- 2024-08-15 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

PM Srettha Guilty of Ethical Misconduct, Entire Cabinet Dismissed Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin listens to a question from a reporter during a press conference at Government house in Bangkok, Thailand after a court removed Srettha from office over an ethical violation Wednesday, Aug. 14, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has been ousted from office by the Constitutional Court today, following a ruling that found him guilty of gross ethical misconduct. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335522-pm-srettha-guilty-of-ethical-misconduct-entire-cabinet-dismissed/

Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin listens to a question from a reporter during a press conference at Government house in Bangkok, Thailand after a court removed Srettha from office over an ethical violation Wednesday, Aug. 14, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has been ousted from office by the Constitutional Court today, following a ruling that found him guilty of gross ethical misconduct. This decision came after his controversial appointment of Phichit Chuenban, a long-time lawyer for the influential Shinawatra family, as the Prime Minister’s Office Minister. The court’s verdict also mandates the removal of Srettha's entire cabinet. The court concluded that Srettha exhibited a "lack of evident integrity" when appointing Phichit, who had previously been sentenced to six months in prison for contempt of court by the Supreme Court's Criminal Division for Political Office Holders in a bribery case. The court underscored that Phichit's criminal record disqualified him from holding a ministerial position, and Srettha should have known and acted accordingly. Despite Srettha’s argument that, as a businessman, he was not familiar with legal intricacies, the court found this defence unacceptable. The court highlighted that Phichit's criminal history was publicly known and that Srettha had sought advice from the Council of State, indicating his awareness of potential qualification issues. Phichit's name was initially excluded from the first list of cabinet ministers but appeared on a revised list after Srettha had consulted with an undisclosed individual. This revised list was subsequently submitted for royal assent. The court interpreted this sequence of actions as evidence that external influences swayed Srettha, thus compromising the integrity of his office. "The Prime Minister should have exercised proper judgement," asserted the court. "Integrity is a fundamental principle, and the reinstatement of Phichit’s name to the cabinet list, after it had been removed, demonstrates a breach of ethical standards." This ruling has significant political implications, leaving Thailand with the immediate task of forming a new government in the wake of Srettha’s and his cabinet's dismissal. -- 2024-08-15 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 15 August 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1335520-thailand-live-thursday-15-august-2024/

Chaikasem to be Nominated as New Thai PM at Special House Meeting Chaikasem Nitisiri. File photo courtesy: thansettakij Chaikasem Nitisiri, a former justice minister and senior figure in the Pheu Thai Party, is expected to be nominated as the new prime minister of Thailand. This comes after the unexpected dismissal of Srettha Thavisin by the Constitutional Court for ethical breaches. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335521-chaikasem-to-be-nominated-as-new-thai-pm-at-special-house-meeting/

Chaikasem Nitisiri. File photo courtesy: thansettakij Chaikasem Nitisiri, a former justice minister and senior figure in the Pheu Thai Party, is expected to be nominated as the new prime minister of Thailand. This comes after the unexpected dismissal of Srettha Thavisin by the Constitutional Court for ethical breaches. Sources indicate that House Speaker Wan Muhamad Noor Matha has scheduled a special House meeting on Friday to vote on Chaikasem's nomination. The decision to nominate Chaikasem was reportedly taken during an urgent meeting held at the residence of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who holds significant influence within the Pheu Thai Party. Key figures from the coalition parties attended this meeting. At 76, Chaikasem is one of three prime ministerial candidates from Pheu Thai, alongside Srettha and Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Thaksin’s daughter and party leader. Chaikasem was chosen over Paetongtarn due to concerns that she may not yet be ready to assume the top role amidst current political volatility. Pheu Thai's coalition commands a comfortable majority with 314 MPs in the House of Representatives, making Chaikasem's nomination likely to proceed without significant opposition. Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, currently on a trade mission in Kazakhstan, is returning to Bangkok following the Constitutional Court's decision. Phumtham is expected to take on the role of caretaker prime minister and will convene meetings with Pheu Thai MPs and coalition partners to discuss the path forward. Phumtham assured that the caretaker government will continue to function within its specified limits. He will chair the planned cabinet meeting in Ayutthaya province and outline the party's strategy and collaboration with coalition partners ahead of Friday’s crucial vote. Friday’s meeting is set to be a pivotal moment in Thailand's political landscape, as the country braces for potential shifts in its governance. -- 2024-08-15 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Following the removal of former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, several media outlets are closely watching the selection of the next PM and the formation of the new Cabinet with seven potential candidates from five coalition government parties. Thai politics in Cabinet fever as PM race heats up, 7 candidates Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335486-thai-pm-srettha-axed-over-controversial-cabinet-appointment/?do=findComment&comment=19148407 Picture courtesy of CNN

BREAKING Thai PM Srettha Axed Over Controversial Cabinet Appointment Srettha Thavisin. File photo Thailand's Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin faces unprecedented political turmoil following a ruling on August 14, which found him in breach of ethics by appointing a convicted lawyer to his Cabinet. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335486-thai-pm-srettha-axed-over-controversial-cabinet-appointment/

Srettha Thavisin. File photo Thailand's Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin faces unprecedented political turmoil following a ruling on August 14, which found him in breach of ethics by appointing a convicted lawyer to his Cabinet. The dramatic decision has the nation on tenterhooks, awaiting further developments that could see the 62-year-old leader ousted from office, thereby plunging the kingdom into renewed political uncertainty. Srettha stands accused of breaching ethical guidelines by appointing a disbarred lawyer with a criminal record, a decision that has ignited fierce debate across the country. A group of former senators has spearheaded the push for his removal, escalating the already tense political climate. Despite the gravity of the accusations, Srettha has consistently denied any misconduct. Today's crucial ruling was issued following lengthy deliberations by the Constitutional Court, which convened early this morning, around 9.30am. The timing is particularly significant, coming just a week after the court disbanded the main opposition party, Move Forward Party (MFP), and imposed a 10-year political ban on its former leader. Over the past two decades, Thailand has seen numerous prime ministers deposed through a combination of legal rulings and military coups, often orchestrated by the Constitutional Court. Political analysts suggest Srettha may defy the odds given his confident denial of any wrongdoing and his composed public demeanour. This morning, the embattled PM visited a Buddhist temple and appeared unfazed by the looming judgement, telling reporters that he had slept well and was following his usual schedule. “I am worried about many things, but this matter is out of my hands. The legal process will unfold as it must,” he stated calmly. As Thailand braces for what could be another destabilising episode, all eyes are on the Constitutional Court's next moves and the potential fallout from this landmark decision. More news to follow…. -- 2024-08-14 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Teen severs soldier’s arm in brutal sword attack in Udon Thani by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A young soldier‘s dream of climbing the military ranks was shattered when he returned home for a visit and was attacked by a 15 year old with a sword, severing his arm. The incident occurred near a school in Udon Thani. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335467-teen-severs-soldier’s-arm-in-brutal-sword-attack-in-udon-thani/

A young soldier‘s dream of climbing the military ranks was shattered when he returned home for a visit and was attacked by a 15 year old with a sword, severing his arm. The incident occurred near a school in Udon Thani. Police Colonel Chakkapad Wichitwaithaya from Nam Som Police Station in Udon Thani provided an update on the case. He reported that a 15 year old boy admitted to attacking the soldier with a sword, claiming he acted alone. The attack happened late at night, and the soldier, who had returned home on leave, was riding his motorbike when he was ambushed. The boy confessed during police questioning, attended by eight other teenagers aged 14 to 16 years old and their parents. He revealed that he harboured resentment towards the soldier, who had previously revved his motorcycle aggressively and challenged his friend to a fight. The boy and his friends had been drinking kratom tea when they saw the soldier passing by. He seized the opportunity, grabbed a prepared sword, and struck the soldier’s arm once, severing it. “I deeply regret my actions and wish to apologise to the soldier’s family,” the boy said, expressing remorse. The police will involve a multidisciplinary team for further investigation before proceeding with legal action. On the same day, Janthieng, the 49 year old soldier’s mother, spoke about her son’s ambitions and the impact of the incident. Her son had enlisted in the military to become an army officer and was stationed at a military camp in Udon Thani. He had taken leave to visit his family when the attack occurred, reported KhaoSod. Sword attack The mother recounted her son’s experience. “On his way back home, a group of five teenagers ambushed him and severed his left arm at the wrist. Despite the injury, he managed to ride his motorcycle home to me. I was shocked and immediately called an ambulance to take him to Nam Som Hospital. “I then rushed to retrieve his severed hand from the scene and brought it to the hospital for reattachment. Although the doctors performed surgery to reattach his arm, his condition remains critical in the ICU due to severe blood loss. “The actions of these teenagers went too far. I want the police to pursue this case to the fullest extent, even though they are minors. As a mother, my heart breaks, and I am devastated that my son’s dreams are now in jeopardy. I will ensure that justice is served.” by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-14 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai transport twist: No chinese takeover in the fast lane, says DLT by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post The Department of Land Transport (DLT) dismissed media reports suggesting Chinese companies are increasingly taking over struggling Thai transport businesses, emphasising that licences issued to one business cannot be transferred in the event of a takeover. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335464-thai-transport-twist-no-chinese-takeover-in-the-fast-lane-says-dlt/

The Department of Land Transport (DLT) dismissed media reports suggesting Chinese companies are increasingly taking over struggling Thai transport businesses, emphasising that licences issued to one business cannot be transferred in the event of a takeover. “More importantly, only Thai legal entities registered and headquartered in Thailand are eligible to hold the licences.” The DLT clarified that at least 51% of a business’s shareholders must be Thai for it to operate legally. Next week, the Ministry of Commerce and the Ministry of Finance will address concerns that Thai citizens are being paid to hold shares to circumvent this rule. They will collaborate to develop better measures to regulate these foreign companies in disguise and ensure they cannot gain any advantages over local Thai business operators, the DLT release noted. Regarding the presence of numerous Chinese lorries in Thailand, the DLT stated that vehicles from any country are allowed to be used in Thailand, provided they are legally imported and meet all related requirements for use in the transport sector. Currently, over 8,400 vehicles produced in China are registered for use in Thailand’s transport sector. Many of these vehicles were assembled by a Chinese car maker with a production base in Thailand, according to the DLT. The DLT also emphasised its commitment to following the memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed by the six countries of the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS), including Thailand, in 2016. This agreement on the Early Harvest Implementation of the Cross-Border Transport Facilitation Agreement (CBTA) has been extended to December 31, 2026. The DLT added that this agreement benefits Thai transport operators. To date, 11 Thai companies have applied for licences to operate a total of 458 trucks under this regional agreement. They expect to begin operating on September 1. On Saturday, a source in the private passenger transport sector revealed that many Chinese companies are negotiating to take over more Thai passenger transport businesses. With about half of the Thai operators having gone out of business, these Chinese operators are eager to enter the market. They see introducing more electric vehicles as one of several measures that could return the sector to profitability, said the source, reported Bangkok Post. by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-14 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand’s entertainment bill faces opposition over complex plan by Bob Scott Bob Picture courtesy of Bankok Biz News The Government of Thailand’s proposed entertainment complex bill has faced significant opposition from both the coalition Bhumjaithai and the opposition Democrat parties, with critics arguing that the potential drawbacks outweigh the benefits. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335460-thailand’s-entertainment-bill-faces-opposition-over-complex-plan/

The Government of Thailand’s proposed entertainment complex bill has faced significant opposition from both the coalition Bhumjaithai and the opposition Democrat parties, with critics arguing that the potential drawbacks outweigh the benefits. Bhumjaithai Party Secretary-General Chaichanok Chidchob voiced the party’s objections after a coalition meeting yesterday, August 13, highlighting four main concerns. According to Chaichanok, the bill would not effectively address illegal gambling and might exacerbate gambling issues in both the new legal sector and the underground grey market. Additionally, Chaichanok argued that the financial benefits projected for state and public funds do not justify the required investment. He questioned the necessity of using casinos to boost tourism, given Thailand’s existing array of renowned attractions. “The bill also lacks clear provisions on how Thai workers would secure jobs in the new complexes.” In parallel, Chaichana Detdecho, Deputy Secretary-General of the Democrat Party, called for a reconsideration of the bill. He questioned whether Thailand could emulate the success of gambling hubs like Macau, Vietnam, or Singapore. “The Democrat Party will not support this bill.” Chaichana suggested that the government could raise national revenue by legalising and taxing long-existing underground lotteries instead. Suchatvee Suwansawat, Deputy Leader of the Democrat Party, expressed his concerns on Facebook following the coalition meeting on National Mother’s Day. He criticised gambling as detrimental to family values and doubted the potential to attract foreign tourists to Thai casinos, given the availability of similar facilities in neighbouring countries. “These casinos would eventually have to target Thais as customers.” Suchatvee also noted the failures of integrated entertainment complexes in neighbouring countries, where promises of local employment were largely unmet, save for a few hundred low-level jobs. Suchatvee highlighted the link between casinos and severe crimes, especially money laundering, near the Thai border, suggesting that such activities are difficult to control. A source revealed that the Entertainment Complex project, endorsed in principle by the cabinet in April, aims to stimulate the economy as Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin embarks on his second year in office, reported Bangkok Post. by Bob Scott Bob Picture courtesy of Bankok Biz News Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-14 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Landslides trap 400 in Mae Hong Son village, urgent aid needed by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Thai PBS Over 400 residents in a hillside village in Mae Hong Son‘s Khun Yuam district urgently called for help as they awaited evacuation following several landslides. The main road leading into the village became impassable after heavy rain on Monday, leaving them stranded. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335457-landslides-trap-400-in-mae-hong-son-village-urgent-aid-needed/

Over 400 residents in a hillside village in Mae Hong Son‘s Khun Yuam district urgently called for help as they awaited evacuation following several landslides. The main road leading into the village became impassable after heavy rain on Monday, leaving them stranded. Phachat Chomchopdi, a resident, reached out to local government officials yesterday, August 13, reporting that while no injuries occurred, the villagers were in critical need of food and drinking water after two days of heavy rain triggered the landslides. Mobile phone signals were lost when the landslides struck Mae Ko Pi village, damaging several houses and the local school from Monday to Tuesday. Chomchopdi explained that some villagers had to climb a nearby hill to get mobile signals and contact people for help. Around 40 students evacuated from the local school on another hillside before a landslide damaged the building. They were left starving and had to wait for hours until their parents rescued them from the hilltop where they had taken refuge. Torrential rain continued on yesterday morning, causing more landslides and prompting panic among the villagers. Urgent calls for assistance were made to local rescuers and soldiers for evacuation to a safer location. Mae Hong Son Governor Chuchip Phongchai stated that the northern province has been experiencing heavy rain since Sunday, resulting in multiple flash floods and landslides in Khun Yuam, Pang Ma Pha, Muang Mae Hong Son, and Mae La Noi districts. At least 11,436 people required evacuation, and authorities were working swiftly to reach those affected. Neighbouring provinces, including Chiang Rai, also reported less severe natural disasters. On Tuesday, Chiang Rai warned residents of potential further flooding and landslides. The Meteorological Department of Thailand forecasted heavy rain for the north and northeast in the coming days, warning of more flash floods in the lower north and provinces on the western side of the northeast, reported Bangkok Post. by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Thai PBS Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-14 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Heavy rain warning for three Thai regions, Bangkok to see showers by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Justin Aikin, Unsplash The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) issued a warning for heavy rain in three regions, with the northern region expected to face 70% rainfall. Bangkok will experience heavy showers from afternoon to evening. Residents are advised to be cautious of potential flooding and flash floods. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335453-heavy-rain-warning-for-three-thai-regions-bangkok-to-see-showers/

The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) issued a warning for heavy rain in three regions, with the northern region expected to face 70% rainfall. Bangkok will experience heavy showers from afternoon to evening. Residents are advised to be cautious of potential flooding and flash floods. The weather forecast for today indicates a possibility of heavy rainfall in the northern, upper northeastern, and eastern regions of Thailand. The TMD urged residents in these areas to stay alert due to the risk of heavy rain and accumulated rainfall, which could lead to flash floods and overflowing rivers, particularly in hilly regions and near waterways. A moderate monsoon trough currently extending across the upper northern region of Thailand and upper Laos, moving towards a low-pressure area over northern Vietnam and the Gulf of Tonkin, is the cause of this weather pattern. Additionally, the moderate southwest monsoon covering the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand is contributing to these conditions. The TMD also forecasted increased monsoon activity and heavier rain in the next ten days, with some areas expected to experience very heavy rainfall. The upper Andaman Sea and the upper Gulf of Thailand will witness moderate wind and wave conditions. Waves are expected to reach 1 to 2 metres, with areas experiencing thunderstorms seeing waves exceeding 2 metres. Mariners are advised to avoid sailing in thunderstorm-prone areas. Concurrently, a powerful tropical storm named Ampil is affecting southern Japan. Travellers planning to visit this region should check weather updates before their journey. For the northern region, thunderstorms are expected in 70% of the area, with heavy rainfall in certain provinces such as Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lampang, Phayao, Nan, Phrae, and Tak. The temperature will range from a minimum of 23 to 26°C to a maximum of 32 to 36°C, with southwesterly winds blowing at speeds of 5 to 15 kilometres per hour. Heavy rain In the northeastern region, thunderstorms are expected in 40% of the area with heavy rain in Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Sakhon Nakhon, and Nakhon Phanom provinces. Temperatures will vary between 23 and 26°C and 33 and 37°C, with southwesterly winds at 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. The central region will see thunderstorms covering 60% of the area, particularly in Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Suphan Buri, Nakhon Pathom, Saraburi, and Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya. Temperatures will range from 24 to 26°C to 35 to 37°C, with southwesterly winds at 10 to 25 kilometres per hour. The eastern region is forecasted to have thunderstorms in 40% of the area, with heavy rain in Nakhon Nayok, Chanthaburi, and Trat. Temperatures will be between 24 and 28°C and 32 and 36 °C. Winds will be southwesterly at 15 to 30 kilometres per hour, with waves about 1 metre high, and higher in areas with thunderstorms. In the southern region (eastern coast), 30% of the area will experience thunderstorms, mainly in Phetchaburi, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, and Songkhla. Temperatures will range from 24 to 26°C to 34 to 36°C, with southwesterly winds at 15 to 30 kilometres per hour and waves about 1 metre high, increasing in thunderstorm areas. The southern region (western coast) will also see thunderstorms in 30% of the area, mainly in Ranong, Phang Nga, Trang, and Satun. Temperatures will be between 24 and 27°C and 33 and 35°C. Winds from the southwest will blow at 15 to 35 kilometres per hour in Ranong and upwards, with waves reaching 1 to 2 metres and higher in thunderstorm areas. From Phang Nga downwards, winds will be at 15 to 30 kilometres per hour and waves about 1 metre high, increasing in thunderstorm areas. Bangkok and surrounding areas will experience thunderstorms in 60% of the area, mostly from afternoon to evening. Temperatures will range from 25 to 27°C to 34 to 36°C, with southwesterly winds at 10 to 25 kilometres per hour. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Justin Aikin, Unsplash Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-14 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Letting kids vape could land you in hot water by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Prime Plus Medical Allowing your little ones to puff away on e-cigarettes or even just breathing in that vapour at home might land you in hot water warned a government official. Child health and rights experts are sounding the alarm, warning that such actions could be a serious breach of child protection laws. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335451-letting-kids-vape-could-land-you-in-hot-water/

Allowing your little ones to puff away on e-cigarettes or even just breathing in that vapour at home might land you in hot water warned a government official. Child health and rights experts are sounding the alarm, warning that such actions could be a serious breach of child protection laws. Sapphasit Khumpraphan, a member of the National Child Protection Committee, called for a major push in public campaigns to spotlight the perils of vaping and second-hand vapour. “Vaping or cigarette smoking at home causes children to be exposed to and inhale second-hand vapour, which could be deemed a form of domestic violence.” Waraphon Phongphanitanon, an expert with the Department of Women’s Affairs and Family Development, confirmed that vaping at home violates the Child Protection Act 2003 and could also be interpreted as domestic violence under the Domestic Violence Victims Protection Act 2007. LG-Unveil dazzling innovation Professor Dr Suwanna Ruangkanchanasetr, deputy director of the Tobacco Control Research and Knowledge Management Centre (TRC), stressed that families need to understand the child protection law and recognise the importance of protecting children from the dangers of vaping. She called for stronger government action to shield Thailand’s children from vaping hazards through rigorous enforcement of the law banning the import and sale of e-cigarettes in the country. Responding to social media videos showing parents allowing their kids to vape under the misconception that it is safe, Associate Professor Adisak Pliponkarnpim, a member of the Royal College of Paediatricians of Thailand and director of the National Institute for Child and Family Development (NICFD) at Mahidol University, clarified that vape juice contains nicotine, which is addictive. “Vaping stimulates the secretion of the ‘happy hormone’ dopamine, making vapers feel relaxed initially. However, nicotine also causes blood vessels to constrict, inducing inflammation and free radicals.” He further warned that vaping in both adults and children could lead to a severe medical condition known as e-cigarette or vaping use-associated lung injury (EVALI). “Vaping in children, especially, could impact development from pregnancy until 25 years of age. More concerning is the potential for child vaping to serve as a gateway to cigarette smoking and drug addiction in later life.” Dr Adisak also highlighted findings from the American Heart Association, which indicated that second-hand vapour contributes to a higher frequency of respiratory inflammation in individuals exposed to the vapour produced by vapers within the same family, reported Bangkok Post. by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Prime Plus Medical Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-14 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai ministry urges the public to refrain from giving money to beggars File photo for reference only The Ministry of Social Development and Human Security will launch a major campaign this Friday, encouraging the public to stop giving money to beggars in an effort to tackle the escalating issue across Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335446-thai-ministry-urges-the-public-to-refrain-from-giving-money-to-beggars/