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FILE photo courtesy; TTG Asia Thailand is basking in the glow of a tourism resurgence, with nearly 33 million foreign visitors having crossed its borders by 8th December 2024. This remarkable influx, welcomed by locals and businesses alike, has injected an impressive 1.5 trillion Thai Baht into the economy, underscoring the country's enduring allure as a travel destination. The country has long been a magnet for global travellers, and this year the top contributors include China, with 6.3 million tourists, followed by Malaysia (4.6 million), India (1.9 million), South Korea (1.7 million), and Russia (1.5 million). The diversity of visitors reflects Thailand's wide-ranging appeal, from its bustling cities to serene beaches, historic landmarks, and vibrant markets. In the remaining few weeks of December, Thailand anticipates an influx of long-haul visitors, particularly from European nations. This expectation is buoyed by strategic tourism campaigns and the implementation of 'Ease of Travelling' measures. These initiatives aim to make the journey to Thailand smoother and more enticing, addressing travel concerns and enhancing the overall visitor experience. A notable development in boosting connectivity is the inauguration of direct flights by Italian airline Neos between Ostrava, a key industrial hub in the Czech Republic, and the holiday haven of Phuket. This new route is part of a broader strategy to attract around 60,000 Czech travellers to Thailand by 2025, augmenting the country's dynamic tourism landscape. The significant increase in inbound seat capacity by 10% in the latter half of 2024 has also been pivotal. This boost has helped facilitate the seamless arrival of tourists, reflecting the successful interplay of government initiatives and airline cooperation. Jirayu Houngsub, spokesman for the Prime Minister's Office, expressed optimism about the continued growth in tourist numbers. The measures undertaken have evidently paid dividends, as Thailand positions itself not just as a tourist haven but as a resilient player in the global tourism market. Thailand's tourism sector is a cornerstone of its economic framework, contributing significantly to the GDP and providing a livelihood for millions. As 2024 draws to a close, the trajectory seems promising for a robust 2025, with expectations riding high on a continued upward trend. As the nation gears up for the year's end, Thailand is poised to capture the imaginations—and bookings—of even more travellers worldwide, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-16

Thailand Targets Tougher Alcohol Laws to Align with Global Norms FILE photo courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand’s government is pushing forward with the Alcoholic Beverage Control Bill, which is slated for parliamentary submission next month as part of its effort to enhance alcohol regulation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346298-thailand-targets-tougher-alcohol-laws-to-align-with-global-norms/

FILE photo courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand’s government is pushing forward with the Alcoholic Beverage Control Bill, which is slated for parliamentary submission next month as part of its effort to enhance alcohol regulation. On Sunday, Nipon Chinanonwait, Director of the Ministry of Public Health's Office of Alcohol Control Committee, revealed the bill's progress, aiming to harmonise local laws with international standards. Anticipated to be deliberated in January, alongside other related bills, the draft law focuses on the regulation of alcohol sales hours, potentially altering the current 2–5pm ban to match global norms. However, round-the-clock sales will remain prohibited. Crucially, the bill proposes the establishment of provincial committees to enforce age restrictions robustly, ensuring minors have no access to alcohol. This legislative push coincides with a recent plea from over 30 anti-alcohol advocacy groups, who submitted a petition to the Public Health Ministry on 6th December. These groups are calling for stricter controls on alcohol-related activities, such as "drinking games," which pose significant health and legal risks, including alcohol poisoning and unconsciousness. Thanakrit Chit-areerat, the Vice Minister of the Ministry of Public Health, has voiced concerns over drink-driving, especially during the upcoming New Year celebrations. He has urged the public, particularly motorists, to remain sober, citing the long-term health risks young drinkers face. In response to these concerns, the ministry plans to increase scrutiny of alcohol-selling establishments and enforce responsibilities among producers and vendors regarding public safety. Additionally, a campaign against drink-driving has been launched by the Thai Health Promotion Foundation in collaboration with the Child Youth and Family Foundation, Life Quality Development Network, and Stop-Drink Network Thailand. Rungarun Limlahaphan, Director of the Social and Health Risk Control Section at the Thai Health Promotion Foundation, reported a slight decline in national drinking rates, from 28.4% in 2017 to 28% in 2021. Despite this decrease, binge drinking remains a critical issue, with over 5.7 million adults admitting to such behaviour last year. Notably, 34% of fatal accidents during last year's New Year festivities were attributed to drink-driving. In light of the proposed legislative changes, road safety expert Thatchawut Jardbandista has cautioned that extending sales hours might exacerbate road safety issues. He advocates for the introduction of stiffer penalties, such as mandatory imprisonment for individuals caught driving under the influence. As the government continues refining its approach to alcohol regulation, the impending debates in parliament will be pivotal in shaping Thailand's stance on aligning with international standards while addressing domestic concerns, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-16

Thai PM leads delegation to Malaysia, begins official visit Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and her husband Pitaka Suksawat. Picture courtesy: Naew Na During this significant diplomatic visit, the Thai delegation, led by the Prime Minister, aims to build on the longstanding relationship between Thailand and Malaysia. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346295-thai-pm-leads-delegation-to-malaysia-begins-official-visit/

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and her husband Pitaka Suksawat. Picture courtesy: Naew Na During this significant diplomatic visit, the Thai delegation, led by the Prime Minister, aims to build on the longstanding relationship between Thailand and Malaysia. The annual meeting is seen as a crucial platform for advancing mutual interests and tackling shared challenges, particularly in the rapidly evolving economic landscape of Southeast Asia. A key focus of the talks will be on developing border areas, with both countries looking to improve infrastructure and economic conditions to benefit local communities. By enhancing connectivity, they aim to facilitate smoother trade and tourism flows which are vital to both economies. The Halal food sector, in particular, presents a significant opportunity for collaboration. With both countries having strong agricultural industries and expertise in food production, they plan to innovate and improve food quality standards. This initiative is intended not only to cater to domestic markets but also to enhance competitiveness in the global market for Halal and plant-based food products. Security is also a primary concern for the two nations, as they work to address cross-border issues such as smuggling and trafficking. Strengthening security measures is seen as a way to ensure a stable and prosperous environment conducive to business and community well-being. The exchange of MOUs marks a formal commitment to deepen cooperation in strategic areas such as the rubber industry—a sector where both countries are major players. By collaborating on research and development, they aim to boost productivity and sustainability in rubber production. Cultural exchanges are set to enrich the bilateral relationship, with agreements that promote cultural heritage and the arts, fostering understanding and goodwill between the peoples of Thailand and Malaysia. Overall, the visit is expected to solidify the partnership between Thailand and Malaysia, laying the groundwork for future cooperation and shared prosperity in the region. -- 2024-12-16

Thai PM Paetongtarn Joins Forbes' 100 Most Powerful Women List Picture courtesy: Facebook กลุ่มประชาสัมพันธ์กรมอุตุนิยมวิทยา In a remarkable achievement, Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has been listed among the "100 World's Most Powerful Women 2024" by Forbes Magazine. This recognition marks a significant milestone in her career, reflecting her growing influence not only within Asia but on the global stage. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346281-thai-pm-paetongtarn-joins-forbes-100-most-powerful-women-list/

Bangkok Citizens Reject Congestion Fee, Favor Waste Collection Charges: NIDA poll File photo courtesy: Wikimedia Commons A recent survey conducted by NIDA Poll reveals that a significant portion of Bangkok residents oppose the proposed congestion charge for inner-city driving but are more supportive of a new garbage collection fee aimed at promoting waste separation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346282-bangkok-citizens-reject-congestion-fee-favor-waste-collection-charges-nida-poll/

File photo courtesy: Wikimedia Commons A recent survey conducted by NIDA Poll reveals that a significant portion of Bangkok residents oppose the proposed congestion charge for inner-city driving but are more supportive of a new garbage collection fee aimed at promoting waste separation. The survey, conducted between 27th and 29th November by the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA), used telephone interviews to collect opinions from 1,310 Bangkokians aged 18 and over, cutting across various educational, income, and occupational backgrounds. The aim was to capture public sentiment regarding the city’s new urban management measures. The Ministry of Transport's proposal to impose a congestion charge of 40-50 Thai Baht on motorists entering central Bangkok aims to fund a fixed 20-baht fare system for all electric rail lines within Greater Bangkok. However, this congestion charge has received a cold reception from the public. Survey results show that nearly half of the respondents, 49.92%, strongly oppose the measure, with 18.24% somewhat disagreeing. Only 17.10% strongly support the initiative, while 13.98% are somewhat in favour. A small fraction, 0.76%, either had no opinion or showed disinterest. When questioned about the anticipated success of the congestion charge, skepticism prevailed. A substantial 55.50% of participants doubted its success entirely, with 28.47% predicting limited success. On the positive side, 12.29% believed it would be somewhat effective, and a mere 2.44% were confident in its success. Contrastingly, there was more enthusiasm for the new garbage collection fee, which becomes effective next June. Under this new system, households producing less than four kilograms of waste per day and practising waste separation will be charged 20 baht monthly. Otherwise, the fee rises to 60 baht. This measure received strong approval from 50.31% of those polled, with an additional 23.66% expressing moderate support. A bloc of respondents, 15.73%, strongly opposed it, and 10.30% showed slight opposition. In terms of cooperative engagement with the new waste fee starting next June, responses were mixed. About 44.81% of residents indicated they would not fully cooperate, whereas 28.93% were moderately willing to comply. Meanwhile, 15.65% expressed no willingness to cooperate at all, and 9.69% reported complete willingness, with a marginal 0.92% undecided or disinterested. This survey highlights the challenges Bangkok faces in implementing new urban policies, with mixed reactions towards their efficacy and acceptance among residents, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-16

Chinese Illegal Workers Earn 2,200 Baht Per Day in Thailand Picture courtesy: Daily News Five Chinese nationals were caught working illegally as labourers in Bangkok, earning an impressive 2,200 THB per day. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346290-chinese-illegal-workers-earn-2200-baht-per-day-in-thailand/

Picture courtesy: Daily News Five Chinese nationals were caught working illegally as labourers in Bangkok, earning an impressive 2,200 THB per day. On 15th December, Pol. Col. Prasopchok Iampinit from Huai Khwang Police Station announced the arrest of five Chinese workers aged between 34 and 61. The arrests were made following a tip-off that led officers to the Hi-Class Building on Ratchadaphisek Road, Din Daeng, where the men were found demolishing a wall as part of renovation work. The group had valid tourist visas but lacked the necessary work permits. Despite their tourist status, they were being paid 450 yuan—or approximately 2,200 THB—per day for their labour. The police charged the men with working without a permit and handed them over to investigators for further legal action. Pol. Col. Iampinit urged the public to report any suspicions of foreigners working illegally, assuring that the police are ready to investigate such matters promptly, reported Daily News. -- 2024-12-16

Picture courtesy: Facebook กลุ่มประชาสัมพันธ์กรมอุตุนิยมวิทยา In a remarkable achievement, Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has been listed among the "100 World's Most Powerful Women 2024" by Forbes Magazine. This recognition marks a significant milestone in her career, reflecting her growing influence not only within Asia but on the global stage. Minister of the Prime Minister's Office, Jiraporn Sindhuprai, announced that Ms Paetongtarn secured the 29th position on the global list and the third spot in Asia. She is preceded by Sandy Ran Xu, CEO of Chinese e-commerce behemoth JD.com, in 27th, and Nirmala Sitharaman, India’s Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs, in 28th place. The list, a testament to female leadership, includes other prominent figures from Southeast Asia. Among them are Ho Ching, chairwoman of Temasek Trust at 32nd, Sri Mulyani Indrawati, Indonesia’s Minister of Finance at 49th, Helen Wong, Group CEO of OCBC in Singapore at 59th, and Jenny Lee, Senior Managing Partner of Granite Asia in Singapore, who rounds up the list at 96th. Ms Paetongtarn’s influence had previously been acknowledged when Time magazine recognised her in the "Time 100 Next" list under the leaders' category. As Thailand’s 31st prime minister and its youngest at 37, she has made noteworthy strides. "Ms Paetongtarn is the youngest female prime minister in the history of Thailand," noted Ms Jiraporn. Since her assumption of office, Ms Paetongtarn has been commendable in managing domestic challenges, notably handling flood crises and a school bus fire incident. She swiftly coordinated a response, demonstrating effective leadership. She has also been instrumental in advancing policies initiated by her predecessor, former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. These include a three-year debt suspension for farmers, initiatives to bolster tourism with free visas, a ฿10,000 cash handout programme, a marriage equality law, and the 30-baht universal healthcare scheme. Forbes determines its Power List based on four main criteria: money, media, impact, and spheres of influence. Political leaders are evaluated by considering gross domestic products and population sizes, while corporate leaders are gauged by revenue, valuations, and workforce numbers. "Media mentions and social reach were analysed for all," Forbes explains. Collectively, the 100 women on the list wield an astounding $1 trillion (approximately ฿36.5 trillion) in economic power, influencing over 1 billion people worldwide through their policies and actions. Forbes emphasizes that their leadership across various sectors—from finance to technology and media—addresses and defies doubts about women's capacity to wield power effectively, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-16

Swiss Tourist Attacked by Local Youths in Pattaya Picture courtesy: Daily News A 66-year-old Swiss man endured a vicious attack by local youths in Pattaya, leaving him injured and his car severely damaged. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346286-swiss-tourist-attacked-by-local-youths-in-pattaya/

Picture courtesy: Daily News A 66-year-old Swiss man endured a vicious attack by local youths in Pattaya, leaving him injured and his car severely damaged. On the night of 15th December, Manoutcher Kamel Kamai, a Swiss national, reported the disturbing incident to the Pattaya City Police. With visible injuries, including facial swelling and cuts, Mr Kamai drove to the police station in tears seeking justice. According to his statement, relayed through a translation app, the trouble started when he parked his Toyota Veloz SUV on South Pattaya Road after dining nearby. Upon returning to his vehicle, he encountered a group of 4 to 6 teenagers surrounding his car. The youths began smashing the car's windows with rocks. When Mr Kamai attempted to intervene, two of the assailants turned on him, kicking and punching him to the ground. Despite his pleas for mercy, the assault continued until a passerby intervened, prompting the gang to flee. The police, having received Mr Kamai's detailed account, immediately broadcasted alerts to capture the suspects. Meanwhile, investigative teams have been dispatched to review CCTV footage and gather more evidence to track down the perpetrators for further legal action, reported Daily News. -- 2024-12-16

Police arrest loan shark gang at Ministry of Culture by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A dramatic arrest unfolded at the Ministry of Culture when police apprehended members of a loan shark gang accused of charging extortionate interest rates and intimidating debtors. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346280-police-arrest-loan-shark-gang-at-ministry-of-culture/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod by Nattapong Westwood A dramatic arrest unfolded at the Ministry of Culture when police apprehended members of a loan shark gang accused of charging extortionate interest rates and intimidating debtors. The operation, led by Montri Teshakun, targeted 30 year old Veeraphat, and 23 year old Meentada, who were charged with operating an unauthorised personal loan business and lending money at rates exceeding legal limits. The crackdown occurred yesterday, December 14, behind the Wisit Cultural Building in Huai Khwang, Bangkok, following a tip-off about the gang’s operations. Investigations revealed that this group, known as Flash & Fluke, frequently collected illegal loan repayments from food vendors at the ministry’s ground-floor food court. Vendors facing difficulties in making payments reportedly endured public humiliation, threats, and even physical confrontations. Debt collectors for the gang reportedly did not hesitate to assert their dominance even within government premises, showing no fear of law enforcement. On weekends when vendors couldn’t sell their goods, they were aggressively reminded to pay their debts. This audacity was a significant concern as it took place in a governmental area, raising alarms about the gang’s boldness. The gang operated by demanding interest rates of 20% daily, significantly above the legal threshold. Investigations found that the gang strategically collected payments during lunch breaks, arriving on motorcycles and wearing full helmets to avoid detection. Once they secured the payments, they swiftly departed the scene. In their confession, the accused admitted to collecting these exorbitant interest rates on behalf of a financier known only as Gram, whose full identity remains unknown. They explained that they were responsible for recruiting clients and collecting installments, receiving a percentage of the interest as a commission. The gang had a structured operation, with different members assigned to specific routes to avoid overlap. Their unit, Sap Lakkachai 5, was led by a figure named Toey, who was responsible for increasing client numbers, while Tum acted as an advisor overseeing the operations, reported KhaoSod. “We were just collecting for our financier, Gram, who charges 20% interest daily. Our job was to find clients and collect payments, and we received a share of the interest,” one of the suspects confessed. Police are conducting further investigations to dismantle the network and identify other members involved in this illegal operation. The suspects have been handed over to the Huai Khwang Police Station for legal proceedings. -- 2024-12-16

Landslide Buries Workers’ Camp on Koh Samui, Two Missing In the early hours of the morning, of December 15, a landslide struck a workers’ camp in Koh Samui, leaving two individuals missing. The incident occurred at 04:00 in the construction area located on a hillside in Soi Hima Thong, Moo 1, Maret Subdistrict, Koh Samui District, Surat Thani Province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346256-landslide-buries-workers’-camp-on-koh-samui-two-missing/

Thaksin Accuses Absent Cabinet Members of Disloyalty, Demands Resignations File photo courtesy: Facebook sorrayuth9115 Thaksin Shinawatra, the de facto leader of the Pheu Thai Party, has strongly criticized members of the coalition government in the administration led by his daughter, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, for their failure to attend a recent cabinet meeting. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346249-thaksin-accuses-absent-cabinet-members-of-disloyalty-demands-resignations/

Thai-British Beauty Queen Duped Out of 4M Baht, Suspect Arrested Picture courtesy: MGR online Thai authorities have arrested a 40-year-old woman believed to be part of a scam operation that duped Thai-British beauty queen Charlotte Austin out of 4 million Thai Baht. The suspect, known only as Parichat, was apprehended in Chaiyaphum province over the weekend. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346275-thai-british-beauty-queen-duped-out-of-4m-baht-suspect-arrested/

Thaksin Denies Role in Anti-Coup Legislation Moves FILE photo courtesy: Facebook Pheu Thai In a fresh wave of political speculation, Thaksin Shinawatra, often regarded as the de facto leader of Thailand's Pheu Thai Party, has firmly denied orchestrating any legislative push aimed at curbing military influence or precluding future coups. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346250-thaksin-denies-role-in-anti-coup-legislation-moves/

to continue: Thailand Live Monday 16 December 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1346262-thailand-live-monday-16-december-2024/

Picture courtesy: MGR online Thai authorities have arrested a 40-year-old woman believed to be part of a scam operation that duped Thai-British beauty queen Charlotte Austin out of 4 million Thai Baht. The suspect, known only as Parichat, was apprehended in Chaiyaphum province over the weekend. Pol Lt Gen Trairong Phewphan, acting commissioner of the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau, detailed that Parichat was involved in a scam run by a group based in Cambodia. The suspect and her husband allegedly travelled illegally from Sa Kaeo province into Cambodia, where Parichat was coerced into opening a bank account for a Chinese-led scam operation. Once in Cambodia, Parichat was taken to a building where the scam was being orchestrated. Here, she was paid a nominal fee of 3,500 Thai Baht to open a bank account, using her identity, for the gang. This building housed roughly 20 Thais, and within its walls were mock offices posing as legitimate Thai authorities. Lt Gen Trairong revealed that the beauty queen’s funds were first transferred into Parichat's account, subsequently converted into digital currency, and then moved to an account linked to a Chinese suspect. The investigation continues as authorities work to dismantle the broader network involved. This alarming scheme unraveled after Charlotte Austin, the 5th runner-up in Miss Grand Thailand 2022, was deceived by a call on December 7th. The caller posed as an official from Thailand's Department of Special Investigation, falsely implicating her in a money laundering case associated with Stark Corporation. In a state of fear and confusion, Austin was instructed to transfer 4 million Baht under the pretence that this would absolve her from suspicion. She made a series of transactions totalling the amount but, as anticipated by the perpetrators, never saw her money returned. Austin's ordeal has thrown a spotlight on the increasingly sophisticated methods employed by scammers and the cross-border challenges faced by law enforcement in tackling these crimes. The arrest of Parichat marks a significant step forward, but the ongoing investigation underscores the complexity of dismantling such operations and bringing all responsible parties to justice, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-16

FILE photo courtesy: Wikipedia Hua Hin Airport set to join the ranks of international airports next year In an ambitious expansion move, Thailand's Hua Hin Airport is set to join the ranks of international airports next year, marking a significant step in boosting regional connectivity and tourism. The Transport Ministry has laid out a transformative plan to elevate Hua Hin's status, aiming to facilitate both domestic and international travel seamlessly. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346261-hua-hin-airport-set-to-join-the-ranks-of-international-airports-next-year/

FILE photo courtesy: Facebook Pheu Thai In a fresh wave of political speculation, Thaksin Shinawatra, often regarded as the de facto leader of Thailand's Pheu Thai Party, has firmly denied orchestrating any legislative push aimed at curbing military influence or precluding future coups. Speaking against recent narratives, Thaksin clarified that he and his daughter, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, are personally dismayed by suggestions that he was behind such moves. Thaksin's refutation comes amidst rumours suggesting he instructed party members to propose legislation that would effectively tether military leadership to the whims of the elected government. However, sources within the party revealed this weekend that Thaksin has assured his followers that no such directive came from him. Instead, he has instructed Pheu Thai MP Prayut Siripanich, who was advocating for the bill, to stall its progression indefinitely, keeping it off the parliamentary agenda. Thaksin, himself a victim of a coup in 2006, expressed his astonishment at being linked to the controversial legal draft. This proposed legislation reportedly advocates for military personnel to refuse orders from superiors contemplating undemocratic overthrows, offering them immunity from disciplinary or criminal repercussions. The draft also purportedly aims to reassign control of the Defence Council, suggesting an elected prime minister should serve as chair, replacing the traditional role of the Defence Minister. Furthermore, it would grant the civilian cabinet the authority to sanction annual military promotions, potentially curbing arbitrary power consolidations through nepotistic practices among army generals, navy admirals, and air marshals. While the idea of such legislative measures might appear progressive to some, the implications of these reports have unfurled new political tension as they suggest a drive to alter the military's long-standing autonomy. Thaksin's categorical denial and the shelving of the bill underscore the delicate balance between Thailand's civilian government and its powerful military. As rumours swirl and political manoeuvrings persist, one thing remains clear: Thaksin's influence, even from behind the scenes, continues to stir significant interest and reaction across the political spectrum. His latest statements might pacify concerns about direct legislative intervention, but the dialogue about military oversight remains a potent subject in Thai political discourse, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-12-16

FILE photo courtesy: Wikipedia In an ambitious expansion move, Thailand's Hua Hin Airport is set to join the ranks of international airports next year, marking a significant step in boosting regional connectivity and tourism. The Transport Ministry has laid out a transformative plan to elevate Hua Hin's status, aiming to facilitate both domestic and international travel seamlessly. Transport Deputy Minister Manaporn Charoensri announced that the Department of Airports, alongside Aeronautical Radio of Thailand and other key agencies, is pressing ahead with efforts to obtain the necessary certification that will grant Hua Hin international airport status. This change is driven by a steady rise in passenger numbers, underscoring the need for expanded and efficient operations. The development is poised to have a profound impact, not only by increasing the frequency and diversity of flights but also by energizing the local economy, particularly benefiting the tourism sector. The move is a strategic push to make Hua Hin a more accessible destination, fostering growth and opportunities. Danai Ruangsorn, the director-general of the Department of Airports, outlined two significant projects within the development plan. The first involves extending and widening the runway to meet international standards, accommodating larger aircraft. This expansion, pegged at 239 million Thai Baht, has been completed and is currently undergoing inspection by the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT). The second project focuses on enhancing the road tunnel, runway strip, and runway-end safety areas, requiring an investment of around 300 million Thai Baht. Currently under review by the Budget Bureau, plans are in place to commence construction in January, with completion expected by April 2026. Presently, Hua Hin Airport can accommodate aircraft such as the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320, seating approximately 180 passengers. Its passenger terminal is set for expansion and can currently support 300 passengers per hour, or around 860,000 annually. Thai AirAsia provides domestic services with the Chiang Mai–Hua Hin route operating multiple days a week, offering much-needed connectivity within the country. With the upcoming upgrade, Hua Hin aims to broaden its horizons, welcoming a new era of international travel and economic vitality. As the plans unfold, stakeholders and residents alike anticipate the benefits this upgrade will bring, promising to place Hua Hin firmly on the map as a key player in Thailand's aviation landscape, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-16

File photo courtesy: Facebook sorrayuth9115 Thaksin Shinawatra, the de facto leader of the Pheu Thai Party, has strongly criticized members of the coalition government in the administration led by his daughter, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, for their failure to attend a recent cabinet meeting. He specifically pointed to the absence of certain cabinet members during a session focused on reviewing international tax measures, calling on them to resign. Speaking about the December 11 meeting, Thaksin highlighted that several members from the coalition parties were missing, with some citing illness as the reason for their absence. "This clearly demonstrates that they are not aligned with us. If they no longer wish to remain part of the government, they should inform us. We would understand. But if they choose to abandon the government again in the future, they should submit their resignation letters," Thaksin remarked. Thaksin, known for his straightforward approach, expressed frustration with those he believes are acting behind the scenes. He emphasized the importance of loyalty and commitment. "If they want to stay, they need to fight alongside us," he said. "This is the government's policy, and they should support it. Once they are appointed to cabinet positions, they can't just walk away whenever it suits them." While Thaksin refrained from naming the absentees directly, sources suggest the missing ministers included notable figures such as Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, and Pirapan Salirathavibhaga, leader of the United Thai Nation Party. During the event, Thaksin humorously downplayed his political role, describing himself as having no official position. He joked that he was simply an "assistant to an MP" and a senior citizen receiving a modest 600 baht monthly state pension. Thaksin’s remarks came during a seminar organized by Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Pheu Thai MPs in Hua Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khan, reported Thai PBS. -- 2024-12-16