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The Thai digital nomad visa seems less controversial than the other immigration-related changes. It’s less than a month since the latest immigration-related changes were introduced. But Thai spokespeople are having some trouble swallowing the detail and repercussions. Sisdivachr Chweewarattanaporn, president of Thai Travel Agents, told the Bangkok Post, “The 60-days visa-free scheme for foreign tourists will allow more foreigners to work illegally in Thailand. Typically, those visiting Thailand for tourism tend to stay less than a month.” By Barry Kenyon The 60-days visa-exemption, which can be extended for 30 days more at local immigration, applies to 93 countries and covers the vast majority of tourists actually arriving at airports and border posts. Surawat Akaraworamat, vice-president of the Tourism Council of Thailand, said Thailand was now more vulnerable to illegal and nominee companies because of lax law enforcement, price-fixing and corruption. He quoted (just one example) of many Russians fleeing to Thailand specifically to work illegally here. The new, five-year and multi-entry Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) also has its difficulties as some diplomatic posts seem unaware. Applicants must apply from their home-country embassy (or via the e-visa portal but not from within Thailand) but embassies have yet to catch up. The Thai embassy in London (one of many) appears to be silent on the DTV and still claims that Brits only get 30 days visa-free. The Thai embassy in Norway simply reprints the Thai foreign affairs ministry’s handout which leaves many questions unanswered. Very few, if any, embassies go further than that. Full story: Pattaya Mail 2024-08-13 - 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

Substandard Chinese Goods Flood Thai Markets, Cause Alarm Reference picture courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand is facing a significant influx of cheap, substandard goods from China, sparking widespread concern among local businesses and consumers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335328-substandard-chinese-goods-flood-thai-markets-cause-alarm/

Reference picture courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand is facing a significant influx of cheap, substandard goods from China, sparking widespread concern among local businesses and consumers. This issue has gained renewed attention with the entry of Temu, a major Chinese platform that sells products directly from Chinese manufacturers. Thai businesses fear collapse, prompting calls for governmental action. Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai addressed the issue on Sunday. He assured that the Thai government would not impose trade barriers or tariffs, highlighting the importance of Thai-Chinese relations. Imposing such measures could invite retaliatory actions from China, a crucial market for Thai agricultural products, he added. However, Sahassawat Kumkong, a People’s Party MP for Chon Buri, criticised this stance. He accused the Pheu Thai Party-led government of inaction against the influx of cheap Chinese goods. Kumkong underscored that Thailand's trade deficit with China has persisted for 11 years, reaching a staggering $36 billion (1.27 trillion baht) in the past two years. He suggested collective action with other ASEAN nations, also facing similar issues, as a potential solution, reported Bangkok Post. According to Sittiphol Viboonthanakul, chairman of the House committee on business development, 25 out of 46 Thai industrial sectors have been severely affected, experiencing a 30% drop in production. The Federation of Thai Industries noted that 111 factories have closed in recent months, while Temu continues to enjoy rapid growth, expanding twelve-fold each month. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has responded to the Temu disruption by instructing relevant government agencies to ensure all imported products sold within Thailand adhere to local laws. This move aims to protect consumers and ensure fair competition within the market. As the debate over appropriate measures continues, the Thai government faces increasing pressure to find a balance between maintaining diplomatic relations and protecting its domestic market from the flood of substandard Chinese goods. -- 2024-08-13 - 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

Man assaults hairdresser and trashes salon over haircut (video) by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A young man dissatisfied with the hairstyle his mother chose assaulted a female hairdresser and trashed the salon, causing damage worth 10,000 baht. The police seek information to help identify the perpetrator. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335325-man-assaults-hairdresser-and-trashes-salon-over-haircut-video/

A young man dissatisfied with the hairstyle his mother chose assaulted a female hairdresser and trashed the salon, causing damage worth 10,000 baht. The police seek information to help identify the perpetrator. Yesterday, August 10, a Facebook user shared CCTV footage from the salon ตามโหงวเฮ้ง อาจารย์ช้าง showing a male customer attacking a hairdresser and vandalising the premises. The video captured the customer, who came for a haircut, physically assaulting the hairdresser and damaging salon property. The incident occurred with the man’s parents present. Despite their attempts to intervene and apologise to the hairdresser, they eventually escorted their son to a car parked outside the salon and drove away. The post requested information that could help identify the customer, urging anyone with knowledge to contact the Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Police Station. The next day, reporters met 58 year old Thanis, also known as Hairdresser Tu, who was the victim of the physical assault. She recounted that the incident took place in the evening two days ago. The young man, approximately 25 years old, came to the salon with his parents. He initially seemed content with the hairstyle chosen from the salon’s options, specifically a two-block haircut. The hairdresser began cutting his hair as per his request, frequently consulting him about the length and style. Throughout the haircut, the mother continually provided input and instructions. Despite this, the young man showed no signs of disagreement. However, upon completion, he suddenly turned to his mother, exclaiming, “Stop ordering me around!” He then kicked over a glass table, threw items around the salon, and punched the hairdresser in the face, causing minor swelling around her eye and pain in her nose. Hairdresser assault Other customers, including Professor Chang, the salon owner, attempted to intervene and calm the situation. The young man’s parents also tried to pacify him and apologised for his behaviour before quickly leaving the salon. The mother fell to the ground during the commotion, adding to the chaos. The hairdresser and other customers were left in shock, especially since there were children present in the salon. The hairdresser managed to lock the door and noted the car’s registration number. She later sought medical attention and reported the incident to the Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Police Station. Since the incident, there has been no contact from the perpetrator or his family. The hairdresser appealed to them to take responsibility for their actions, reported KhaoSod. Professor Chang shared his perspective on the incident, expressing disbelief that such violence could occur over a simple haircut. He mentioned that the salon had engaged in thorough discussions with the customer about the desired hairstyle, making the violent outburst even more unexpected. The damage included two broken clippers and a shattered razor, with an estimated cost of 10,000 baht (US$280). by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-13 - 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

Phuket Sees Surge in Tourist Arrivals This August Plane spotting at Mai Khao Beach in Phuket. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Phuket's tourism industry is bustling with activity as the island experiences a massive increase in tourist arrivals this August. The Airports of Thailand (AOT) has reported a significant spike in flights landing on the island, with 20 to 30 flights arriving daily - more than double the number seen last year. The upward trend is expected to continue into the high season. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335322-phuket-sees-surge-in-tourist-arrivals-this-august/

Plane spotting at Mai Khao Beach in Phuket. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Phuket's tourism industry is bustling with activity as the island experiences a massive increase in tourist arrivals this August. The Airports of Thailand (AOT) has reported a significant spike in flights landing on the island, with 20 to 30 flights arriving daily - more than double the number seen last year. The upward trend is expected to continue into the high season. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, utilising his vacation in Phuket, convened a meeting of tourism and security officials to prepare for the forthcoming peak tourist season. Representatives from the National Police, Region 8 Police, Phuket provincial police, Tourist and Marine police, the Navy, Phuket Provincial Governor Sophon Suwannarat, and the AOT attended the discussions. The AOT representatives conveyed that during the high season, Phuket airport is projected to welcome 14,000 to 15,000 tourists per day, totalling around 600,000 visitors each month. This marks an extraordinary increase of over 100% compared to last year’s figures, reported Thai Newsroom. Region 8 Police are taking measures to ensure tourists' safety and comfort, coordinating with consulates from countries with a high tourist influx, including Russia, China, India, Australia, the UK, and Scandinavian nations. The police are enhancing efforts to prevent crime and facilitate smoother travel experiences. Additionally, volunteers from various countries have been recruited to assist with communication and support for tourists, ensuring that language barriers do not hinder the positive experience. Phuket's tourism authorities are optimistic about accommodating the increased numbers, assuring that the necessary infrastructure and security measures are being put in place to handle the influx efficiently. With these preparations, Phuket gears up for an exceptional high season, aiming to offer an unforgettable experience for all its visitors. -- 2024-08-13 - 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

People’s Party Surge: 84% Would Vote Today, Poll Reveals Leader of People's Party, Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut leaves after a press conference as they announced the formation of the new political party in Bangkok, Thailand, Friday, Aug. 9, 2024, two days after Thailand’s Move Forward party was dissolved by legal order. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) In a stunning development, a recent Thailand poll indicates that 84% of those surveyed would cast their vote for the newly formed People’s Party if an election were held tomorrow. This landslide support follows the dissolution of the reformist Move Forward Party by the Constitutional Court. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335321-people’s-party-surge-84-would-vote-today-poll-reveals/

Leader of People's Party, Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut leaves after a press conference as they announced the formation of the new political party in Bangkok, Thailand, Friday, Aug. 9, 2024, two days after Thailand’s Move Forward party was dissolved by legal order. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) In a stunning development, a recent Thailand poll indicates that 84% of those surveyed would cast their vote for the newly formed People’s Party if an election were held tomorrow. This landslide support follows the dissolution of the reformist Move Forward Party by the Constitutional Court. The poll, which garnered responses from around 51,000 individuals via Matichon’s YouTube channel, illustrates a significant shift in public opinion towards the People’s Party. Move Forward, now resurrected as the People’s Party, faced court-ordered dissolution due to charges related to their controversial campaign promise to amend the lese majeste law. In comparison, only 9% of respondents indicated support for the Pheu Thai Party, led by Thaksin Shinawatra, the de facto leader. Pheu Thai currently heads the coalition government with Bhumjaithai, the second-largest coalition partner, receiving just 2% of the hypothetical vote. The dissolution of Move Forward has not dampened public enthusiasm for their mission. Within nine hours yesterday, over 10 million baht was donated to the People’s Party, meeting their fundraising target. Additionally, more than 19,000 people registered as party members in a single day, pushing towards a goal of 100,000 members within a month, reported Thai Newsroom. Chulalongkorn University political scientist Puangthong Pawakapan has criticised the Constitutional Court for what she describes as a double standard. She argues that past military coups, such as those in 2006 and 2014 led by army chiefs Sonthi Boonyaratkalin and Prayut Chan-o-cha respectively, were clear acts of undermining the constitution but went unpunished. In contrast, Move Forward was dissolved for campaign issues. The Constitutional Court ruling not only dissolved the Move Forward Party but also banned its leaders, including Pita Limjaroenrat and Chaithawat Tulathon, from political office for ten years. This decision has stirred significant debate and discontent among the public, indicating potential unrest and a shift in future electoral dynamics. -- 2024-08-13 - 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 Hopeful Ahead of Crucial Constitutional Court Verdict Srettha Thavisin. Picture courtesy: MGR online Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin appears confident he will survive the Constitutional Court's verdict on Wednesday, despite controversy surrounding the appointment of PM Office Minister, Phichit Chuenban. An insider source suggests the PM may receive favourable judgement with a likely 7:2 vote in his favour. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335320-pm-hopeful-ahead-of-crucial-constitutional-court-verdict/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin appears confident he will survive the Constitutional Court's verdict on Wednesday, despite controversy surrounding the appointment of PM Office Minister, Phichit Chuenban. An insider source suggests the PM may receive favourable judgement with a likely 7:2 vote in his favour. The case lodged by a group of caretaker senators accuses the prime minister under §170 (4) and (5) of the charter, pertaining to the ethical conduct of cabinet ministers. If the court rules against him, it could potentially end his tenure as Thailand's prime minister. Despite the impending verdict, Mr. Srettha appears to be continuing his duties undeterred. His schedule includes key diplomatic and domestic engagements starting from August 15th. The PM is set to attend the Mekong-Lancang Cooperation meeting in Chiang Mai on August 15-16. Subsequently, he will visit Pathum Thani, Nakhon Nayok, and Saraburi on August 17th to monitor tourism promotion activities. On August 18th, he will address water management issues during visits to Chainat, Sing Buri, and Ang Thong. Further reinforcing his commitment to regional issues, he will chair a mobile cabinet meeting in Ayutthaya on August 20th. The following day, he will fly to Tak province's Mae Sot district to discuss call centre scams, drug trafficking, and security with local officials, reported Thai PBS. On August 22nd, Mr. Srettha will visit Chiang Rai, focusing on call centre fraud, drug trafficking, and cross-border trade. He will wrap up this busy period with a visit to Chiang Mai on August 23rd to tackle PM2.5 air pollution and boost tourism ahead of the high season. Despite the looming court decision, the prime minister remains focused on his official responsibilities, suggesting an air of confidence in his expected exoneration. TOP: Srettha Thavisin. Picture courtesy: MGR online -- 2024-08-13 - 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 Tuesday 13 August 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1335319-thailand-live-tuesday-13-august-2024/

Fight Breaks Out Between Tourists and Local Workers on Karon Beach A photograph sparked online controversy today when it depicted a physical fight involving Indian tourists and local umbrella handlers at Karon Beach in Phuket. The image, which showed the locals throwing punches, was posted on a popular social media page and quickly went viral, creating a flurry of reactions from internet users. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335305-fight-breaks-out-between-tourists-and-local-workers-on-karon-beach/

In a relief for British holidaymakers heading to Bangkok, the city is no longer the number one international destination for tourist scams. Bangkok has dropped from the first spot to the sixth spot in the global list of cities with the highest likelihood of scams or thefts. Bangkok sees drop in scam-related incidents for British tourists Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335280-bangkok-sees-drop-in-scam-related-incidents-for-british-tourists/

Irish Man Arrested in Pattaya After Fight With Bolt Driver and Allegedly Attacking Cop By Aim Tanakorn PATTAYA - A Bolt driver in Pattaya allegedly got into a physical altercation with a heavily intoxicated and aggressive Irish passenger, who also injured a volunteer police officer, according to the Pattaya Police. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335255-irish-man-arrested-in-pattaya-after-fight-with-bolt-driver-and-allegedly-attacking-cop/

PATTAYA - A Bolt driver in Pattaya allegedly got into a physical altercation with a heavily intoxicated and aggressive Irish passenger, who also injured a volunteer police officer, according to the Pattaya Police. The incident took place at 9:20 PM on August 10th, 2024. Pattaya Police and rescue services received a report of a brawl occurring inside Soi Chalermphrakiat 19, Nongprue sub-district, Banglamung district, Chonburi province. They immediately responded to the scene. There, authorities found bystanders trying to restrain a foreign man identified only as Mr. P, an Irish national aged approximately in his fifties. He was found injured with blood on his face, a swollen eye socket, and a head wound. Another injured party, Mr. Nipon Thepmanee, 52, a volunteer police officer, was found with a serious head injury and in a semi-conscious state. The rescue services provided first aid to both injured individuals before transporting them to a nearby hospital. According to Pattaya Police, the altercation involved a Bolt driver, Mr. Jaemsaiwai Jaemsuwan, 43. He was found waiting at the scene to give a statement to the authorities. Mr. Jaemsaiwai explained that the injured foreigner had hired him to take the man from Soi Buakhao to Soi Khao Noi. However, the foreigner, who was accompanied by an unidentified Thai woman, had allegedly accidentally set the wrong location on the map, setting it instead at Soi Chalermphrakiat 19. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-08-12 - 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

Woman arrested for tricking man into marriage, stealing 5 million baht by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A woman has been arrested for defrauding a man into marriage and leaving him penniless. Despite previous imprisonment, she continued her deceitful acts, claiming to be related to a prison warden and swindling victims of 5 million baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335254-woman-arrested-for-tricking-man-into-marriage-stealing-5-million-baht/

A woman has been arrested for defrauding a man into marriage and leaving him penniless. Despite previous imprisonment, she continued her deceitful acts, claiming to be related to a prison warden and swindling victims of 5 million baht. Police in Udon Thani announced the arrest of 30 year old Sunisa Thinthan under a warrant issued by the Udon Thani Provincial Court on August 7. She was apprehended at a hotel in the Sukhumvit area of Bangkok. Sunisa is accused of embezzlement and has a history of similar offences. Earlier, Deputy Superintendent Akkarapol Wongrithiwal received a report from the Udon Thani City Police Station about Sunisa, who had previously been convicted of fraud and imprisoned in 2021. After her release, she continued her fraudulent activities. While in prison, she befriended fellow inmates and gathered personal information from them. Once released, she contacted the inmates’ relatives, falsely claiming to be related to the warden of Udon Thani Central Prison. She convinced them that she could arrange for reduced sentences or early releases in exchange for money. Sunisa borrowed a Rolex watch, a Louis Vuitton Speedy bag, and a car from the relatives, promising to return them but never did. When the victims demanded their belongings back, she repeatedly evaded them. The total damages were estimated to be around 5 million baht (US$141,830), leading to her being charged with embezzlement. Two more victims came forward on August 6. Kittiwat Sihawat, the 24 year old son of a catering business owner, and Pacharaput Phadornsakchai, a 25 year old wedding planner from Khon Kaen, reported to the Chum Phae Police Station in Khon Kaen. They claimed that Sunisa, under the alias Sunisa Kengtan, had hired them for a wedding. Marriage defrauding She ordered 20 tables of food at 1,300 baht (US$37) per table, totalling 26,000 baht (US$740), and rented wedding dresses. She also hired Pacharaput to arrange the venue for 18,700 baht (US$$530), with a 2,000 baht (US$60) deposit paid. The wedding was held at Secret Restaurant in Nong Phai, Chum Phae. However, after the event, Sunisa failed to pay the remaining amounts for the catering and venue arrangements, leading them to file a complaint. Sittichai, the 21 year old groom deceived by Sunisa, revealed that they met online on Facebook. Sunisa claimed to own Secret Bar and had a Chinese gangster boyfriend. She invited him to work at the bar, where she flaunted a luxurious lifestyle with branded bags and a luxury car. Sunisa proposed marriage as a ritual to ward off bad karma, and Sittichai agreed out of goodwill. She handled all wedding expenses, including rented dowry items. After the wedding, Sunisa took all his belongings, emptied his bank account, sold his computer, confiscated his phone, and coerced him into registering their marriage. Fearing her gangster boyfriend’s threats, Sittichai did not resist. Colonel Chakaj revealed that during interrogation, Sunisa partially admitted to borrowing the car but claimed she intended to return it. Police found that Sunisa had a consistent pattern of deceit, often claiming her boyfriend was a Chinese gangster to intimidate her victims. She repeatedly entered and exited prison without remorse. Her criminal record includes seven cases and seven arrest warrants, reported KhaoSod. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-12 - 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

Chalerm and Wan: The Father-Son Duo Stirring Up Pheu Thai and Thaksin Thai PBS file photo: Chalerm Ubumrung Veteran politician Chalerm Ubumrung and his son, Wan, are causing quite a buzz in the Pheu Thai Party, reigniting old tensions and creating new headaches for party leaders, including Paetongtarn Shinawatra and her father, former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335253-chalerm-and-wan-the-father-son-duo-stirring-up-pheu-thai-and-thaksin/

Thai PBS file photo: Chalerm Ubumrung Veteran politician Chalerm Ubumrung and his son, Wan, are causing quite a buzz in the Pheu Thai Party, reigniting old tensions and creating new headaches for party leaders, including Paetongtarn Shinawatra and her father, former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Recently, the 77-year-old Chalerm criticised Thaksin and dared the Pheu Thai Party to expel him, suggesting he would join his son in a new party while retaining his MP seat. This comes after Wan, 49, left Pheu Thai in August to join the coalition partner Palang Pracharath. His departure followed a reprimand from Paetongtarn for meeting a "party rival". The father-son duo's meeting with Kamronwit Toopkrajang on June 30, a Pheu Thai candidate challenger, sparked speculation that Pheu Thai targeted Chalerm's family to provoke this reaction. As a fiercely protective father, Chalerm has a history of standing up for his children, evident in an incident from October 2000 when he stormed a Bangkok police station to defend his youngest son, Duang. Chalerm's political journey began in 1983 when he was elected as a Bangkok MP under the Democrat Party. Over the years, he has held numerous key ministerial positions. However, his relationship with Thaksin has seen highs and lows. Chalerm claims to have aided Thaksin significantly, even managing legal issues for him during his exile. At a recent press conference, Chalerm hinted at revealing more secrets about Thaksin if Pheu Thai continues to ignore his expulsion request. His son Wan, who lost his bid for re-election in last year's national polls, has also had a turbulent political career, marked by alternations and controversies, reported Thai PBS. With the political arena in Thailand always dynamic, Chalerm and Wan’s moves will undoubtedly add more twists to Pheu Thai's already complex landscape. Their actions have the potential to impact not just party dynamics but also broader political alliances in the country. -- 2024-08-12 - 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 Pakdee to Contest the Legitimacy of the People's Party Formation Warong Dechgitvigrom. Picture courtesy Facebook/Warong Dechgitvigrom Dr. Warong Dechgitvigrom, leader of the pro-monarchy Thai Pakdee party, has raised concerns over the legality of the formation of the new People’s party. In a Facebook post today, he announced his intention to ask the Election Commission (EC) to investigate the legal processes involved. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335252-thai-pakdee-to-contest-the-legitimacy-of-the-peoples-party-formation/

Warong Dechgitvigrom. Picture courtesy Facebook/Warong Dechgitvigrom Dr. Warong Dechgitvigrom, leader of the pro-monarchy Thai Pakdee party, has raised concerns over the legality of the formation of the new People’s party. In a Facebook post today, he announced his intention to ask the Election Commission (EC) to investigate the legal processes involved. Warong specifically questioned whether the name change from ‘Thin Ka Khao Chao Wilai’ party to ‘Prachachon’ (People’s) party complied with the law. According to Warong, referencing data from the EC’s website, the ‘Thin Ka Khao Chao Wilai’ party, originally established in 2012, only has three branch offices—two in the northern region and one in the central region. He pointed out that the party lacks branches in the southern and north-eastern regions, a requirement under the Political Parties Act to maintain its status. In light of these discrepancies, Warong urged the EC to undertake a thorough investigation to ensure the legitimacy of the People’s party's formation. Transparency, he explained, is crucial for maintaining public trust in the electoral process. On the other side, the newly formed People’s party has seen remarkable support from the public. Just today, they announced that donations have exceeded 20 million baht and membership has climbed to over 38,000 in just two days since its establishment. The People’s party reported on their website last night that donations totalling 20,353,671 baht by 8 PM on Saturday will fund their operations for the next three months. Detailed expenditure plans were also shared: 7.9 million baht will be allocated for head office operations, 1.6 million baht for election campaigning and an emergency fund, 6.6 million baht for party activities across the country, and 4.1 million baht for other essential activities. The unfolding events have already sparked considerable interest and debate among political observers, who eagerly await the EC’s findings and any potential impact on the People’s party’s future. -- 2024-08-12 - 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

Dusit Poll Highlights Thai Political Pessimism as Govt's Rating Plummets Srettha giving an interview. File photo source: Wikipedia In a recent survey conducted by Dusit Poll, over 1,140 Thai citizens revealed a growing interest in political affairs, albeit for troubling reasons. Conducted amidst the controversial dissolution of the Move Forward Party, the survey captures a country steeped in political pessimism and dissatisfaction with its current government. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335251-dusit-poll-highlights-thai-political-pessimism-as-govts-rating-plummets/

In a recent survey conducted by Dusit Poll, over 1,140 Thai citizens revealed a growing interest in political affairs, albeit for troubling reasons. Conducted amidst the controversial dissolution of the Move Forward Party, the survey captures a country steeped in political pessimism and dissatisfaction with its current government. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin finds himself at the centre of discontent. A significant 64% of respondents expressed limited confidence in his administration. More than half (55%) even called for a Cabinet reshuffle, underscoring a pervasive sense of frustration. The survey also revealed that 43% of Thais are now following political news more closely, drawn primarily by the Move Forward Party's recent troubles. This heightened interest, however, does not translate to optimism: 67% of those polled believe the political landscape will deterioratem reported Thai PBS . The timing of the survey, aligning with the Constitutional Court's ruling on the Move Forward dissolution, likely amplified these sentiments. Pollsters noted that while such interest is understandable, it also highlights a deeper, more worrying trend of political pessimism among the Thai population. A significant contributing factor to this disillusionment is the current government’s poor public perception. Analysts from Dusit Poll suggest that a more popular administration might have been better positioned to buffer the negative impact of recent political events. The distressing findings come just a day before Move Forward's rebranding announcement. Now set to be called "People," the new name aims to reflect the party’s continued commitment to the public. Supporters argue that the essence of the party remains unchanged, despite this nominal shift. Critics, however, argue that governmental critiques and rebrands alone won't reverse creeping despair. Renaming schemes, particularly ones as generic as "People," are unlikely to reinvigorate public interest or trust without substantial policy shifts. Historical patterns in politics, including "People's Power" in Thailand and "People Power" in South Korea, reflect a universally exhausted nomenclature. With political names saturated in symbolism and historical usage, it remains to be seen whether a fresh name will bring about any tangible change in public sentiment. The current atmosphere remains precariously pessimistic, suggesting that deeper reforms may be needed to restore faith in Thailand's political future. Srettha giving an interview. File photo source: Wikipedia -- 2024-08-12 - 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

British Tourist Assaulted and Robbed on Bangla Road in Patong Picture courtesy: The Phuket Express A 62-year-old British tourist, Mr. Robert, was attacked and robbed in Patong, Thailand, on Friday, August 9th, leading to a shocking incident on Bangla Road. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335250-british-tourist-assaulted-and-robbed-on-bangla-road-in-patong/