webfact

File photo for reference only The Thai 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. The campaign will commence at the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre in Pathumwan district. A star-studded affair is expected, with key players like the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), the Metropolitan Police Bureau (MPB), the Immigration Bureau, the Mirror Foundation, and other leading anti-begging advocates in attendance. To spread the message, participants will distribute multilingual pamphlets in Thai, English, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Cambodian to people at the Pathumwan Intersection and along Rama I and Phaya Thai Roads. The campaign aims to raise awareness about the escalating beggar problem, advocating for regulatory and legal measures to control the number of beggars and shifting public perceptions about giving money. “We need to change mindsets,” said Varawut Silpa-archa, the Social Development Minister. “Many see giving money to beggars as an act of compassion. However, this often exacerbates the problem, with many beggars becoming victims of trafficking or being used for illegal activities.” A recent ministry survey revealed 506 beggars on the streets nationwide in the current fiscal year, marking a 20% increase from last year. Of these beggars, 331 were Thai nationals, with 24% identified as repeat beggars. Bangkok and key tourist provinces such as Chon Buri, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Lop Buri reported the highest beggar numbers. However, nine provinces reported none, including Chai Nat, Sing Buri, Satun, Nakhon Phanom, Lampang, Phetchaburi, Nan, and Phang Nga. From October 2014 to July this year, the ministry documented 7,635 beggars, with 65% being Thai and the remaining foreign nationals. Most beggars were found operating in major cities and tourist towns particularly in Bangkok, Samut Prakan, Pathum Thani, Chon Buri, Nakhon Ratchasima, and Chiang Mai. The initiative underscores the government's commitment to tackling the beggar issue and protecting those vulnerable to exploitation and illegal activities. -- 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

German Man's 3rd Floor Jump at Pattaya Hotel Leads to Severe Injuries Early this morning, a 21-year-old German man jumped from the third floor of a luxury hotel in Pattaya, resulting in severe injuries. The quick response from local authorities and rescue workers was crucial in providing him with the immediate medical attention he needed. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335443-german-mans-3rd-floor-jump-at-pattaya-hotel-leads-to-severe-injuries/

Apologies, ASEAN NOW is not currently accepting comments on this topic /Admin

Early this morning, a 21-year-old German man jumped from the third floor of a luxury hotel in Pattaya, resulting in severe injuries. The quick response from local authorities and rescue workers was crucial in providing him with the immediate medical attention he needed. The incident transpired at approximately 2:36 a.m. on August 14, 2024. Pol. Lt. Itthikorn Saikratok, an investigation officer from Pattaya City Police Station, received a report regarding an individual who had fallen from considerable height. The location was identified as a high-end hotel on Pattaya Second Road, Nongprue Subdistrict, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi Province. Following the report, Lt. Saikratok promptly coordinated with rescue workers from Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Pattaya City, rushing to the scene. Upon arrival, officials found Manuel Marc Norbert, the injured German national, laying on the ground in serious condition after the fall. Immediate first aid was provided, followed by a rushed transport to the hospital for further treatment. The fall had also shattered an awning roof on a lower floor, although there were no indications of any assault or foul play. It was noted that Norbert had checked into the hotel earlier that day. In recounting the incident, the hotel security guard mentioned hearing noises akin to metal clanging or construction. Investigating the source of the noise, he discovered Norbert sitting on the edge of the third-floor eaves with his legs dangling precariously. Despite the guard's attempts to warn and shout at him to retreat to safety, Norbert did not heed the warnings and ultimately jumped. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident, while medical professionals focus on Norbert's recovery. This event has brought a renewed focus on hotel safety protocols and the importance of immediate intervention in preventing such tragic occurrences. If you or anyone you know is in emotional distress, please contact the Samaritans of Thailand 24-hour hotline: 02 713 6791 (English), 02 713 6793 (Thai) or the Thai Mental Health Hotline at 1323 (Thai). Please also contact your friends or relatives at this time if you have feelings of loneliness, stress or depression. Seek help. -- 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 Sets Record for New Business Registrations Amid Economic Boost Picture courtesy: Bangkok Biz News Thailand is poised to set a new record for business registrations this year, with over 90,000 new companies expected, driven largely by government measures, including the 10,000-baht handout scheme, the Commerce Ministry announced. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335442-thailand-sets-record-for-new-business-registrations-amid-economic-boost/

Picture courtesy: Bangkok Biz News Thailand is poised to set a new record for business registrations this year, with over 90,000 new companies expected, driven largely by government measures, including the 10,000-baht handout scheme, the Commerce Ministry announced. In the first half of this year, the Department of Business Development recorded 46,383 new business registrations, a slight decrease of 1.91% compared to the same period last year. However, with an average of 7,700 new companies registered monthly, the trend suggests sustained economic recovery, according to Witthayakorn Maneenetr, the Commerce Ministry spokesperson. The ministry forecasts a surge in new company registrations in the latter half of the year, potentially pushing the total to a record 98,000. “The Thai economy is showing many positive signs, including growth in domestic consumption, the tourism industry, and exports,” Witthayakorn stated. In addition to the digital wallet scheme, which is expected to significantly boost domestic spending, the government is supporting small and medium-sized businesses by reducing their costs and hosting sales promotion events nationwide. The ministry has also spearheaded roadshows overseas to bolster Thailand’s export sector and open new market opportunities for local entrepreneurs. “Thanks to continued support for the tourism industry during the low season, entrepreneurs are ready to welcome more visitors during the upcoming high season, benefiting hotels, restaurants, transport, and related businesses,” Witthayakorn added. During the first half of 2024, the total registered capital of newly registered companies amounted to 145.07 billion baht, a 66.15% year-on-year drop. This decline is attributed to last year’s merger of telecom giants True Corporation and Total Access Communication (Dtac), both of which had registered capitals exceeding 100 billion baht. Conversely, the number of dissolved companies decreased by 14.91%, with 6,039 companies filing for dissolution, of which only four had a registered capital exceeding 1 billion baht. As of June 30, Thailand boasts 1,923,618 registered business entities with a combined registered capital of 30.19 trillion baht. Of these, 77.97% are limited companies, 21.87% are partnerships, and 0.16% are public limited companies. -- 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

PM Srettha Calls for Strict Laws to Protect Thai Sectors Picture courtesy: National News Bureau of Thailand Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has called for stringent adherence to Thai laws to safeguard citizens' rights amid concerns about foreign investments affecting the country's transportation and restaurant sectors. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335441-pm-srettha-calls-for-strict-laws-to-protect-thai-sectors/

Picture courtesy: National News Bureau of Thailand Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has called for stringent adherence to Thai laws to safeguard citizens' rights amid concerns about foreign investments affecting the country's transportation and restaurant sectors. During a recent government meeting, the prime minister highlighted the increase in Thai restaurant businesses and the regulation of transportation licenses, which are strictly non-transferable between legal entities. The Ministry of Commerce has contested claims that foreign investments have caused a 50% closure rate among Thai restaurants. Contrary to these allegations, statistics reveal that 2,472 new restaurant businesses were registered in the first seven months of 2024, indicating the sector's resilience and growth. To further support local restaurant enterprises, the ministry has rolled out several initiatives, including training courses, certification programs, and marketing campaigns aimed at promoting Thai cuisine on a global scale. Addressing concerns in the transportation sector, rumours had circulated about Chinese companies attempting to acquire Thai bus companies. The government has denied these claims, reported NNT. The Department of Land Transport clarified that public transport service licenses must meet stringent criteria, primarily involving majority ownership and management by Thai nationals. These regulations ensure the government retains control over foreign investments in key sectors to prevent any compromise of Thai interests. The prime minister's call for stringent adherence underscores the government's commitment to protecting domestic industries while fostering growth and resilience in the face of rising foreign investments. By implementing robust regulatory measures and promoting local initiatives, Thailand aims to secure its economic sectors and preserve its national interests. -- 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

Tesla Reconsiders Thailand Plant Amidst Global Strategy Shift A Tesla charger is seen, Oct. 19, 2022, in Freeport, Maine. (AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty, File) Tesla's proposed investment in Thailand is under scrutiny as the electric vehicle giant reassesses its global strategy in the face of declining sales growth and heightened competition from Chinese EV makers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335440-tesla-reconsiders-thailand-plant-amidst-global-strategy-shift/

A Tesla charger is seen, Oct. 19, 2022, in Freeport, Maine. (AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty, File) Tesla's proposed investment in Thailand is under scrutiny as the electric vehicle giant reassesses its global strategy in the face of declining sales growth and heightened competition from Chinese EV makers. Government spokesman Chai Wacharonke confirmed on Tuesday that Thailand is awaiting official word from Tesla regarding the potential scrapping of their investment plans. "Tesla is reviewing its investment plans worldwide, not just in Thailand," said Mr Chai. "However, there has been no confirmation [about halting the investment plan in Thailand] from the company. It’s been reported in the news. We’re waiting to hear from them." Recent media reports suggest that Tesla is prioritising its existing production bases in the US, China, and Germany. This strategy aligns with the company's April announcement to focus on building new, more affordable vehicles at its current factories rather than investing in new sites in Mexico and India. Indonesia, another hopeful for Tesla's investment, is still waiting for updates on a planned EV battery manufacturing plant. The two parties signed a $5 billion agreement in 2022, under which Tesla would source significant amounts of nickel for its EV batteries, reported Bangkok Post. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin initially disclosed Tesla's interest in Thailand after meeting with CEO Elon Musk at the UN General Assembly in New York last September. Following this, Mr Srettha toured Tesla's Fremont factory in California in November, reportedly persuading the company to consider Thailand for investment. Tesla’s deputy chief of investment was later invited to visit an industrial estate in Thailand's Eastern Economic Corridor and attend Loy Krathong celebrations in Chiang Mai. However, the South China Morning Post reported last Friday that Tesla’s interest in investing in Thailand and Malaysia seems to have waned. In Thailand, the focus now appears to be on EV charging stations rather than a full-scale production plant. Following a cabinet meeting on Tuesday, Prime Minister Srettha stated he had no new information on Tesla's possible withdrawal but noted ongoing discussions between the government and the company about a potential business plan. -- 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

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Wednesday 14 August 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335436-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-wednesday-14-august-2024/

The Constitutional Court is due to rule today on Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin's fate following accusations that he violated the constitution by appointing to Cabinet a former lawyer who was jailed for contempt of court following a bribery attempt. The Prime Minister is unlikely to attend the hearing that could see him dismissed, scheduled for 3 pm today Members of both coalition and opposition parties voiced opposition to the government's entertainment complex bill to legalize casinos, arguing the drawbacks outweigh the benefits. They believe it won't curb illegal gambling, the financial gains don't justify the costs, and tourism doesn't need casinos. Concerns were also raised about securing local jobs. They questioned if Thailand could match the growth seen in Macau, Vietnam, or Singapore. Bangkok City councillors have submitted a letter supporting the plan to move Bangkok port out of the capital to reduce city congestion and air pollution. adding that if the congestion is relieved, the problem of fine dust will also improve. "The site will be repurposed for residential, commercial and retail spaces. The Department of Transport has dismissed reports of Chinese companies taking over Thai transport businesses, stating that licenses cannot be transferred and are only granted to Thai-registered entities. Discussions are planned to address concerns about Thai citizens being paid to hold shares to bypass this rule. A lift mechanic was killed yesterday at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport when an elevator he was repairing suddenly crashed down on him. The accident, which occurred around lunchtime in the domestic terminal, is under investigation. Around the region China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi will visit Myanmar today after heavy fighting near the Chinese border saw rebel groups making a series of gains that some see as a “fundamental change” in the situation. Todays Weather mothers day Monday Chiang Mai and the north: cloudy, thundershowers 32C degrees celsius Bangkok: Bright, partly cloudy, thundershowers 34 Pattaya: cloudy with showers 31 Phuket and the south: Sunny partly Cloudy 32 Hua Hin: Sunny with some showers expected this afternoon 32C Much the same over the weekend . AQI: green which is good Green clear, yellow moderate, Orange High, Red unhealthy. Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Wunderground.com The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Windy.com. -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-08-14 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Disciplinary Committee Poised to Charge “Big Joke” and Associates Picture courtesy: Daily News The disciplinary committee investigating Pol. Gen. Surachate Hakparn, famously known as “Big Joke,” is nearing completion of its probe and plans to summon him and his associates to acknowledge charges this month. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335435-disciplinary-committee-poised-to-charge-“big-joke”-and-associates/

The disciplinary committee investigating Pol. Gen. Surachate Hakparn, famously known as “Big Joke,” is nearing completion of its probe and plans to summon him and his associates to acknowledge charges this month. With 90% of the inquiry concluded, the committee, headed by Pol. Gen. Sarawut Karnpanich, the Deputy Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police, is meeting on August 15 to discuss the case's progress and likely charge them by the end of August. The committee's findings are expected to be finalised during this meeting, scheduled at the Crime Suppression Division headquarters. The group facing these charges includes five individuals, notably Pol. Gen. Surachate Hakparn, reported Daily News. The other four are Pol. Lt. Col. Krits Priyaket, Pol. Col. Kittichai Sangkhathaworn, Pol. Sgt. Maj. Nattawut Watwaew, and Pol. Sgt. Maj. Natthanan Chujak. They are all accused of committing severe disciplinary violations. Interestingly, Pol. Lt. Col. Krits Priyaket has confessed, claiming sole responsibility. However, this confession does not absolve the others involved. The committee will use this information while deliberating further. As background, Pol. Gen. Surachate Hakparn, Deputy Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police, previously known for his active role in crime suppression and public relations, has faced scrutiny and controversy over his methods and actions. This investigation into severe disciplinary breaches marks a significant moment in his career, and the outcome may influence the Royal Thai Police's public and internal image. The case has garnered considerable attention, and the results of this disciplinary action will be closely watched. The charges and subsequent actions taken by the committee are expected to set a precedent within the police force, highlighting accountability at the highest ranks. As we await the final decision, all eyes will be on the Royal Thai Police to see how they handle this high-profile case. TOP Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 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

Villagers Plant Banana Trees in Road Protest Over Potholes Picture courtesy: Daily News Villagers in Sangkha District, Surin Province, have had enough. For five long years, the primary road passing through their area has been a nightmare of potholes and poor lighting, making it almost impossible to navigate safely. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335434-villagers-plant-banana-trees-in-road-protest-over-potholes/

Villagers in Sangkha District, Surin Province, have had enough. For five long years, the primary road passing through their area has been a nightmare of potholes and poor lighting, making it almost impossible to navigate safely. As a result, these resilient residents have taken an unusual but striking step to draw attention to their plight: they've planted banana trees right in the middle of the road and set up donation boxes to protest the apparent neglect by government authorities. The disheartened villagers of Stung, Village No. 4, Dom Subdistrict, have been suffering due to a stretch of road riddled with potholes. This 1,500-metre strip of asphalt is ostensibly under the jurisdiction of the Dom Subdistrict Administrative Organization. However, despite its crucial role as a secondary main road connecting the Dom and Thep Raksa subdistricts and serving as a shortcut to Sangkha District, it has been in disrepair for over half a decade. According to numerous residents, no substantial repair work has taken place, leaving many cars and motorbikes susceptible to damage and accidents, especially during the rainy season when the potholes fill with water. Pictures courtesy: Daily News This has led to a number of incidents, including injuries from fallen motorbikes. Although officials have occasionally visited for inspections, no lasting remedies have been administered, reported Daily News. Determined to improve their situation, the villagers pooled their money to collect donations and set up a donation box. With the funds, they have been buying gravel to fill the holes temporarily. However, their standout approach involves planting banana trees in the middle of the road, aiming to push government agencies into action. Mr. Satit Monthon, a 48-year-old villager involved in the effort, lamented the authorities' inaction. "We've been living with this for years, scraping the undercarriage of our cars, getting injured. Officials come, listen, and leave, but nothing changes. We're doing what we can, but we shouldn't have to." The villagers hope this dramatic demonstration will finally push the relevant agencies to repair the road, ending their long-standing ordeal. TOP: Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 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

BOT Discusses Adjusting Credit Card Minimum Payment Picture courtesy: NNT The Bank of Thailand (BOT) is currently reviewing the minimum payment rate for credit card debt and is in discussions with credit card issuers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335431-bot-discusses-adjusting-credit-card-minimum-payment/

Picture courtesy: NNT The Bank of Thailand (BOT) is currently reviewing the minimum payment rate for credit card debt and is in discussions with credit card issuers. The central bank is considering reducing the minimum payment rate from the planned 8% back to 5%, following a request from Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. This change aims to alleviate the financial burden on consumers during challenging times. The BOT plans to finalize the decision soon, recognizing the urgency of the matter. Chayawadee Chai-Anant, Assistant Governor of the BOT, emphasized that any changes will be implemented with sufficient time for financial institutions to adjust their systems, ensuring that debtors can manage repayments effectively. This consideration comes amidst rising household debt in Thailand, expected to exceed 16.9 trillion baht by the end of 2024, accounting for over 91% of the country's GDP. The increase is attributed to a sluggish economic recovery and slow income growth, pushing many individuals toward debt, including informal lending sources. This situation has raised concerns among economic analysts and policymakers about the potential long-term impacts on the economy, including the risk of an increasing number of non-performing loans (NPLs). The BOT is acutely aware of these risks and aims to strike a balance between easing consumer burdens and maintaining financial stability, reported NNT. Financial institutions are preparing for the potential change, which could lower the immediate financial pressure on consumers but may extend the debt repayment period. This measure is seen as a temporary relief, with longer-term solutions needed to address the root causes of high household debt. The decision by the BOT will be closely watched by market participants, economists, and the general public to see how effectively it can balance short-term relief with long-term financial health. The outcome will also serve as an indicator of the government's commitment to tackling economic challenges in a sustainable manner. -- 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

Pattaya Bolt Driver Arrested for Allegedly Raping 18-Year-Old Passenger By Aim Tanakorn A Bolt driver in Pattaya was arrested by police after allegedly raping an 18-year-old passenger while she was drunk. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335428-pattaya-bolt-driver-arrested-for-allegedly-raping-18-year-old-passenger/

A Bolt driver in Pattaya was arrested by police after allegedly raping an 18-year-old passenger while she was drunk. The suspect, Mr. Kob (real name withheld by police), was arrested at 2:36 AM on August 13th, 2024. The Bolt driver was handed over to Pattaya police by a large group of teenagers who knew the victim and pressured him to surrender. According to the police report, Mr. Kob was accused of raping an 18-year-old woman, Ms. B (real name withheld to protect her privacy). Ms. B recounted the horrifying incident to police, saying that in May, she went out with friends for a drink and became intoxicated. Ms. B used the Bolt app to call a ride, and the perpetrator, Mr. Kob, arrived on a white Honda PCX motorcycle. He dropped her off at her accommodation as per her request. Upon reaching the apartment, Ms. B was still intoxicated, and the driver assisted her to her room. When she went to the bathroom to vomit, the Bolt driver allegedly confronted her, claiming she hadn’t paid the fare. He then reached into her bag and took money without her knowing how much he took. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 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

PM Faces Uncertainty as Constitutional Court Decision Looms Srettha Thavisin. Picture courtesy: MGR online Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin today expressed he has no contingency plan should the Constitutional Court strip him of his position tomorrow. He made clear there’s no intention to dissolve the House of Representatives if the ruling goes against him. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335426-pm-faces-uncertainty-as-constitutional-court-decision-looms/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin today expressed he has no contingency plan should Thailand's Constitutional Court strip him of his position tomorrow. He made clear there’s no intention to dissolve the House of Representatives if the ruling goes against him. The court will decide on whether Thavisin violated the law by appointing Pichet Chuenban, a convict, as the Prime Minister's Office Minister. The charge was brought forth by a group of senators who argue the appointment breaches legal provisions. For the verdict reading, Thavisin has delegated his secretary-general, Dr. Prommin Lertsuridej, to attend. Thavisin said if he is spared, he will continue with his duties as planned. Addressing comments made by his legal advisor, Wissanu Krea-ngam, who volunteered to step in temporarily if Thavisin is deposed, the Prime Minister stated he hasn’t considered this option. “Let it happen first, then I will consider what to do,” Thavisin remarked, underscoring his lack of premeditation in the face of potential removal. Thavisin's schedule remains packed over the next ten days, as he is set to attend multiple provincial meetings. This perhaps hints at his optimism about the court ruling in his favour, reported Thai PBS. In the political landscape, this looming court decision injects significant uncertainty. Thavisin's declaration underlines the fluidity of his situation and the absence of a clear fallback strategy, leaving both his supporters and detractors on edge. What's clear from Thavisin’s stance is his commitment—or perhaps stubbornness—in waiting out the court's decision before formulating his next moves. As the decision day approaches, the nation's eyes are firmly fixed on the Constitutional Court and the unfolding story of the Prime Minister's political fate. TOP: Srettha Thavisin. Picture courtesy: MGR online -- 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

Police Raid Pattaya Bar Selling Laughing Gas Balloons By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: Dailynews Pattaya police raided a bar on Walking Street last night for selling balloons filled with laughing gas and arrested five individuals. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335425-police-raid-pattaya-bar-selling-laughing-gas-balloons/

Pattaya police raided a bar on Walking Street last night for selling balloons filled with laughing gas and arrested five individuals. The raid was carried out by a team of Pattaya police on the night of August 12th, 2024. The police raided a small bar on Pattaya’s iconic Walking Street following a tip-off from concerned citizens. The citizens reported that the bar was allegedly selling laughing gas to Thai and foreign tourists. At the bar, authorities arrested 25-year-old cashier Ms. Jutharat (surname withheld by police), 27-year-old Myanmar national Mr. Ye Te, and three other Myanmar employees. The police seized a large amount of evidence, including three balloons filled with laughing gas, 29 used balloons, 38 tickets used for exchanging balloons, 80 ticket books, valves for the gas tanks, a gas gun, 14 tanks of laughing gas (nitrous oxide), sales records, and seven receipts. Police also found that the premises has a secret room for customers and a back room converted into a gas filling area. By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: Dailynews Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 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 Tourism Boom: Revenue Set to Hit 2.8 Trillion Baht Grand Palace Bangkok. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand's tourism industry is experiencing a robust resurgence. A significant revenue surge is projected for this year, with experts predicting that total tourism earnings will soar to 2.8 trillion baht. This marks a remarkable 25% increase from the previous year's figures, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335424-thailands-tourism-boom-revenue-set-to-hit-28-trillion-baht/