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Thai Salaries to Rise by 5% in 2025 Amid Competitive Job Market Picture courtesy: MGR online The average salary in Thailand is expected to increase by 5% in 2025, maintaining the growth rate of the current year. This insight comes from Mercer, a leading human resources consultancy known for its comprehensive surveys of employment trends. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346075-thai-salaries-to-rise-by-5-in-2025-amid-competitive-job-market/

Picture courtesy; MGR online The average salary in Thailand is expected to increase by 5% in 2025, maintaining the growth rate of the current year. This insight comes from Mercer, a leading human resources consultancy known for its comprehensive surveys of employment trends. This anticipated salary hike highlights the enduring commitment to workforce investment amid a competitive labour market. Mercer’s Total Remuneration Survey 2024, which forms the basis of this prediction, analysed pay trends and compensation policies across more than 700 companies and over 5,000 roles in Thailand. Notably, the survey found that all the companies participating in the analysis plan to implement salary increases next year, compared to 99.8% in the current year. This indicates a universal resolve to secure salary growth as a means to attract and retain talent. The survey identified several factors contributing to the impending pay increases, including individual employee performance, overall organisational performance, and competitive pressures in the job market. Furthermore, the analysis underscores a significant shift towards incorporating incentives as an integral part of compensation packages, marking a nuanced approach to employee remuneration. Within specific industries, the life sciences sector emerges as the highest-paying, offering salaries that stand 20% above the national average. The automotive sector takes the lead in short-term incentives, with these bonuses comprising 23% of the total remuneration, a contrast to the consumer goods sector where base salaries constitute 75% of the overall pay package. Despite a global trend favouring the adoption of flexible benefit schemes, such initiatives remain relatively rare in Thailand, with only a minority of companies implementing them. This indicates a potential area for growth in how Thai companies could enhance their compensation frameworks. Significantly, 91% of the organisations surveyed already have short-term incentive plans, such as bonuses in place. Meanwhile, long-term incentives like stock options have seen a slight rise in popularity, with an increase from 78.9% in 2023 to 80.7% in 2024, reflecting a slow but steady acceptance of these retention strategies. Thira Laulathaphol, career principal at Mercer Thailand, commented on the findings, emphasizing the ongoing focus on workforce investment. "The average salary increase of 5% in 2025 reflects an ongoing commitment by Thai organisations to invest in their workforces. With every surveyed company planning raises, it’s clear that Thailand’s job market is highly competitive. HR leaders must adopt a holistic approach to compensation that includes not just salary but also a mix of incentives and employee well-being." Overall, while base salaries remain a foundational element of employee compensation in Thailand, the growing trend of incentive-based pay signals a shift towards more dynamic and adaptable remuneration packages, aligned with the country's thriving economic environment, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-13

Disciplinary and Criminal Charges for 7 Police Officers in Assault Case Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Seven traffic police officers face disciplinary and criminal charges after assaulting the wrong person, a case potentially linked to the enforced disappearance law. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346073-disciplinary-and-criminal-charges-for-7-police-officers-in-assault-case/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Seven traffic police officers face disciplinary and criminal charges after assaulting the wrong person, a case potentially linked to the enforced disappearance law. The incident unfolded on 4th December, when officers mistakenly attacked Thananope, 33, near a checkpoint in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district, suspecting him of evading a stop. Thananope, son of a retired police officer, was seriously injured. Metropolitan Police Deputy Commissioner, Pol Maj Gen Nopasilp Poonsawat, announced an investigation into the improper checkpoint setup and any directives involved. The Traffic Police Division has temporarily suspended all checkpoints for review. The officers, including Pol Lt. Col. Thaweepong Euthukon and others, face severe disciplinary action and have been released from duty pending investigation. Criminal proceedings are underway, with initial charges of misconduct and assault. The officers have denied the allegations. Further investigations are exploring connections to the Prevention and Suppression of Torture and Enforced Disappearance Act. The case has been forwarded to the National Anti-Corruption Commission for legal processing. In a related judicial outcome, Thanayut, the driver of the red Mazda initially sought by police, received a suspended two-month sentence, a 15,000 baht fine, and a six-month driving licence suspension for evading a checkpoint. Metropolitan Police are committed to rigorous adherence to regulations, having reminded all 88 stations and Traffic Police Division personnel of proper checkpoint protocols. The public is encouraged to report misconduct via emergency hotline 191, reported Thai Rath. -- 2024-12-13

Social Media Buzz: The Mystery 'Bell' at Traffic Lights Picture courtesy: Daily News Social media platforms are abuzz with theories about a peculiar white device resembling a bell, spotted atop traffic lights across intersections. Many wondered if it was a new type of traffic camera. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346069-social-media-buzz-the-mystery-bell-at-traffic-lights/

Picture courtesy: Daily News Social media platforms are abuzz with theories about a peculiar white device resembling a bell, spotted atop traffic lights across intersections. Many wondered if it was a new type of traffic camera. Recently, a user named "totoonline" ignited curiosity on the popular Thai forum Pantip with a post titled, "What is this pole in the middle of the road? Is it a camera?" featuring a photo of the mysterious white equipment. The device, mounted on poles specially or directly on traffic signals, left many puzzled due to its unconventional appearance. The post fuelled speculation, with some users initially assuming it to be a traffic camera. However, sceptical observers noted the absence of visible camera lenses. Others theorised it could be a traffic signal sensor, controlling lights based on vehicle presence—an idea seen in Japan. Eventually, a link shared in the discussion led users to WHA GROUP's website, providing clarity. The device is part of a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system used primarily for monitoring and managing fire prevention equipment like fire pumps and alarms, reported Daily News. This indicates its role may vary, depending on installation purposes, potentially extending beyond mere traffic control. Sources: Pantip.com, WHA GROUP. -- 2024-12-13

Buddhist Monk's Drunken Mishap Leads to Car Crash Picture courtesy: Siam Rath A Buddhist monk recently made headlines when he drove his car off the road in a drunken stupor, right by a football field in Nang Rong district, Buriram. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346064-buddhist-monks-drunken-mishap-leads-to-car-crash/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath A Buddhist monk recently made headlines when he drove his car off the road in a drunken stupor, right by a football field in Nang Rong district, Buriram. The incident was originally shared on TikTok, where footage showed the monk standing beside the car appearing quite intoxicated. The post revealed conflicting accounts of his background - his ID suggesting he was from Ban Kruat district, while he supposedly resides at a forest monastery in Huai Hin. Commenters on the video largely saw it as humorous due to the monk's evidently inebriated state. Reporters who went to investigate found the mishap occurred on Route 24, in front of a private football field known as "General's Football Field," between Ban Nong Takhian and Nong Bote. The monk involved was identified as 53-year-old Phra Itthirit, a resident monk at a local temple in Ban Kruat. Sommai, the 62-year-old football field owner, recounted seeing the car plunge into a ditch while she and her daughter were nearby. Her daughter filmed the incident, noting the monk appeared anxious and requested they not inform the authorities. However, they had to, as the car needed towing to be retrieved. Sommai initially feared injuries but later found the scene ironically amusing, given the monk's severe drunkenness leading to the accident. She speculated light-heartedly that the monk may have inadvertently blessed the still-under-construction football field, though she remained unsure of his current whereabouts or if he had disrobed following the event, reported Siam Rath. -- 2024-12-13

Malaysia Rejects Thailand Border Wall, Eyes Tech Solutions Picture courtesy: news1live The Malaysian government has decided against a proposed border wall between Kelantan state and Thailand's Narathiwat province, opting instead for high-tech solutions to tackle cross-border smuggling and crime. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346061-malaysia-rejects-thailand-border-wall-eyes-tech-solutions/

Picture courtesy: news1live The Malaysian government has decided against a proposed border wall between Kelantan state and Thailand's Narathiwat province, opting instead for high-tech solutions to tackle cross-border smuggling and crime. Initiated by Kelantan, the wall proposal faced opposition from Malaysian Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, who cited the high costs associated with building and maintaining such a barrier. In response to increasing concerns about illegal crossings and criminal activities along the border, Malaysia is shifting focus toward modern technology that promises more effective monitoring and control. Though the specific technologies have not been disclosed, the aim is to target informal crossing points, often referred to as "rat lanes," which have been prevalent between Malaysia and Thailand. While Kelantan's wall proposition—spanning 100 kilometres along the Golok River—remains in limbo pending central government approval, Mr Saifuddin's remarks suggest a strategic pivot away from traditional physical barriers. According to a Malaysian study, 154 of 281 identified "rat lanes" are situated along the Thai border, necessitating efficient surveillance to deter crime. Efforts to secure the border come as part of a larger initiative to embrace technological advancements in national safety, reflecting a broader global trend. By prioritising innovation over infrastructural expenditures, Malaysia seeks to manage border security with greater effectiveness and fiscal responsibility. This decision highlights an adaptation strategy that balances security needs with economic practicality, influencing how similar challenges might be approached within the region, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-13

Opposition Demands Clarity on Proposed Thai Tax Reforms Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Amidst rising concerns over potential tax changes in Thailand, the opposition People’s Party is pressing the government for clarity. With tax reform proposals currently in the study phase, speculation about a possible value-added tax (VAT) increase has sent ripples through the public and political spheres alike. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346056-opposition-demands-clarity-on-proposed-thai-tax-reforms/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Amidst rising concerns over potential tax changes in Thailand, the opposition People’s Party is pressing the government for clarity. With tax reform proposals currently in the study phase, speculation about a possible value-added tax (VAT) increase has sent ripples through the public and political spheres alike. During the latest House session, People’s Party MP Sirikanya Tansakun called on the government to explain remarks made by Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira regarding the restructuring of the national tax system. While the minister has suggested these are merely ideas under consideration, the implications have brought ongoing public unease. Ms Sirikanya expressed a cautious welcome towards tax reforms aiming at revenue enhancement but emphasised the necessity of transparent and substantiated government communications. Based on her interpretation of Mr Pichai's statements, the proposed reforms might set corporate tax at 15%, reduce personal income taxes to a flat 15%, and increase VAT from its longstanding rate of 7% to 15%. These potential changes could lead to a significant shortfall in corporate tax revenue, around 190 billion Thai Baht, Ms Sirikanya noted. Moreover, individuals earning less than 300,000 Thai Baht monthly could face heightened income tax rates, calling into question the efficacy and equity of such reforms. "I remain perplexed as to how this strategy will fulfil its promise of increasing government revenue with minimal public impact," Ms Sirikanya stated. "If unaware of this potential revenue dip, why consider elevating VAT to compensate?" Mr Pichai's suggestion of elevating VAT — a rate unchanged for 30 years — to as high as 15% was swiftly countered by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Furthermore, the idea of a standard 15% personal income tax rate is positioned to attract international expertise, rather than replace the current progressive system. Ms Sirikanya further speculated that lowering corporate taxes might align with global norms set by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), which advocates a minimum 15% corporate tax for multinationals with sales exceeding 750 million euros. Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat acknowledged the need for greater tax revenue to underpin universal welfare initiatives. With tax revenues contributing merely 14% to Thailand's GDP, against a global average of 18%, the ministry is actively studying new revenue streams, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-13

Thai woman glued to phone hit by electric motorcycle in Pattaya By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of TMN Cable TV Pattaya via Pattaya News A dramatic accident unfolded on Pattaya Beach Road in the early hours of today, leaving three people injured after a woman, distracted by her phone, was struck by an electric motorcycle. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346040-thai-woman-glued-to-phone-hit-by-electric-motorcycle-in-pattaya/

Thai PM Pledges Populist Policies to Boost Economy Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has unveiled a series of populist initiatives aimed at invigorating the Thai economy and bolstering governmental support. In a televised address, she outlined strategies focusing on soft loans, affordable housing, and energy cost reductions to address key economic challenges like high household debt and subdued consumer spending. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346034-thai-pm-pledges-populist-policies-to-boost-economy-support/

Pad Kaprao Tops Foodpanda's 2024 Most-Ordered List in Thailand In a gastronomic twist, Pad Kaprao has reclaimed its status as Thailand's most-ordered dish in Foodpanda's 2024 statistics, with a staggering 800,000 orders. The spicy basil stir-fry, lauded globally by TasteAtlas as the world's best stir-fried dish, has surged past its 2023 rival, fried rice. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346037-pad-kaprao-tops-foodpandas-2024-most-ordered-list-in-thailand/

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 13 December 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1346042-thailand-live-friday-13-december-2024/

Photo via Facebook/ ครบเครื่องเรื่องญี่ปุ่น by Petch Petpailin Thai woman caught smuggling 6 million baht of cocaine into Japan A Thai woman was arrested at Kansai International Airport in Osaka after she smuggled 6 million baht worth of cocaine into Japan. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346039-thai-woman-caught-smuggling-6-million-baht-of-cocaine-into-japan/

Thai woman caught smuggling 6 million baht of cocaine into Japan by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ ครบเครื่องเรื่องญี่ปุ่น A Thai woman was arrested at Kansai International Airport in Osaka after she smuggled 6 million baht worth of cocaine into Japan. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346039-thai-woman-caught-smuggling-6-million-baht-of-cocaine-into-japan/

Photo via Facebook/ ครบเครื่องเรื่องญี่ปุ่น by Petch Petpailin A Thai woman was arrested at Kansai International Airport in Osaka after she smuggled 6 million baht worth of cocaine into Japan. Local news agencies in Japan recently reported that the 23 year old Thai woman, whose identity remains undisclosed, was arrested at Kansai Airport after 760 grammes of cocaine were found in her possession. The drugs were worth approximately 27 million yen, or around 8 million baht. The suspect concealed the drugs in her backpack but could not evade the attention of officials. Japanese security officials became suspicious after noticing that she brought very few belongings with her, carrying only one backpack. Officials examined her bag and found unusual stitching with yellow thread in a suspicious location. Channel 3 reported that the officials later discovered the cocaine hidden in a secret pocket crafted with the yellow thread. The woman is said to travelled from Malaysia, transiting through China before arriving in Japan. Japanese police have not yet disclosed further details about the case, nor have they confirmed whether the woman admitted to her crime. The police stated that further investigations are underway to identify other suspects involved. Thai drugs japan Photo via Facebook/ ครบเครื่องเรื่องญี่ปุ่น In a related incident reported in July, a Thai woman named Phatcharin was arrested in Thailand for smuggling drugs into Japan via the same Kansai Airport. Japanese officials found Phatcharin and two other suspects hiding methamphetamine in their backpacks, but they were caught. The three were deported to Thailand after serving their sentences in Japan. However, they are also set to face punishment in Thailand, prompting police to search for and arrest Phatcharin. No further details were provided about the other two suspects. Photo via Facebook/ ครบเครื่องเรื่องญี่ปุ่น WorkPoint Today reported that Japan imposes severe penalties for drug-related offences. Anyone caught smuggling drugs into the country faces a prison sentence of at least 10 years and a fine of at least 3 million yen, or approximately 660,000 baht. While drug smuggling into Japan is not commonly reported in Thai news, there were several cases of drug smuggling to South Korea. Recently, a Thai woman was sought by police after tricking an innocent man into delivering drugs to South Korea on her behalf. Another Thai woman was arrested in Thailand for smuggling drugs into South Korea. She was initially caught in South Korea and imprisoned for three months before being deported and arrested again in Thailand. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-12

Thai PM Pledges Populist Policies to Boost Economy Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has unveiled a series of populist initiatives aimed at invigorating the Thai economy and bolstering governmental support. In a televised address, she outlined strategies focusing on soft loans, affordable housing, and energy cost reductions to address key economic challenges like high household debt and subdued consumer spending. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346034-thai-pm-pledges-populist-policies-to-boost-economy-support/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has unveiled a series of populist initiatives aimed at invigorating the Thai economy and bolstering governmental support. In a televised address, she outlined strategies focusing on soft loans, affordable housing, and energy cost reductions to address key economic challenges like high household debt and subdued consumer spending. Poised to stimulate the economy, Paetongtarn's measures will include targeted financial assistance for community enterprises and village funds, as well as a uniform rate for urban rail commutes. She has also proposed formalising Thailand's vast informal economy, which reportedly contributes around 49% to the country's gross domestic product, to better protect consumers and generate revenue for the state. "2025 will be a year of realised opportunities and aspirations," the PM declared, underscoring her administration's commitment to delivering tangible results. This approach aims to echo the populist strategies of her father, Thaksin Shinawatra, a former premier renowned for pro-poor, grassroots-focused policies that have historically resonated with Thai voters. Paetongtarn's ascent as Thailand's youngest prime minister earlier this year followed her predecessor's unexpected removal. With a lineage tied to the influential Shinawatra political dynasty, her tenure is expected to perpetuate the populist legacy, renowned for policies offering direct financial aid and subsidies across various sectors. However, significant hurdles await her government. With household debt soaring to about 89.6% of GDP—totalling approximately 16.3 trillion Thai Baht—it ranks among the highest in Asia, presenting a substantial barrier to sustainable economic growth. Despite these challenges, the prime minister is optimistic about Thailand's economic prospects. She predicts a growth rate exceeding 3% in the last quarter of 2024. Integral to this outlook is the continuation of a significant 450 billion Thai Baht stimulus scheme set to enter its third phase next year. Thus far, approximately 14.5 million citizens have benefited from initial disbursements of 10,000 Thai Baht each, intended to stimulate local economies. Another 4 million recipients are expected by January, with plans extending to over 26.5 million individuals in total, reported Bangkok Post. Paetongtarn's ambitious vision signals a determined effort to revitalise Thailand's economy through these populist measures, intertwining immediate relief with longer-term economic reforms. As she seeks to steer the nation towards prosperity, the coming months may well test the stronger resolve of both her leadership and the policies she champions. -- 2024-12-12

Thai condo scam costs 200 victims 3 billion baht by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Wassayos Ngamkham via Bangkok Post Seventy people approached Thailand’s Department of Special Investigation (DSI) with allegations of being scammed into purchasing condominium units, leading to a collective financial loss of 3 billion baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345999-thai-condo-scam-costs-200-victims-3-billion-baht/

Photo courtesy of Wassayos Ngamkham via Bangkok Post by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Seventy people approached Thailand’s Department of Special Investigation (DSI) with allegations of being scammed into purchasing condominium units, leading to a collective financial loss of 3 billion baht. This group is part of a larger contingent of about 200 people who claim to have fallen victim to a fraudulent debt relief scheme. Pavena Hongsakula, leading the charge, filed the complaint on behalf of the victims. She is known for her work with the Pavena Foundation for Children and Women, which the victims contacted for assistance over the weekend. They allege deception by a company that promised to clear their credit card debts in exchange for signing contracts to buy condos. One of the victims, identified only as Meen, recounted her experience with the company based in Khlong 2, Lam Luk Ka district, Pathum Thani province. She was approached with an offer to settle her 900,000 baht credit card debt. Meen was puzzled by how the company knew about her financial situation but accepted the offer when they paid off her debt. Meen reported to the Khu Khot Police Station, explaining that the debt was settled by the company, which then required her to join a condominium purchasing scheme. Initially, she believed she had committed to buying one unit. However, she later discovered that the company had used her documents to secure loans from multiple banks, leaving her with 16 million baht in liabilities for four units. The company arranged that Meen would pay for one unit while it would cover the costs of the remaining three. The contract also included a clause for the company to repurchase all units within two years. This agreement was not honoured, and Meen is now responsible for the substantial debt and facing legal action from the banks. Other victims have reported similar predicaments, with some facing debts as high as 40 million baht from being coerced into purchasing several units. The affected individuals have formed a LINE group with over 200 members to share their experiences and support each other. Pavena noted the severe distress among the victims, especially after the company’s abrupt closure. “Everyone was very distressed because the company had already closed.” Pavena is appealing to the DSI to assist in negotiating with banks for debt restructuring on behalf of the victims. She also called for a thorough investigation into the company and other businesses employing similar fraudulent tactics, often advertised on social media, reported Bangkok Post. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-12

Indian tourist targeted in daring Pattaya necklace snatch by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya News In a brazen act of robbery, an Indian tourist was targeted by a pair of masked bandits in the heart of Pattaya. The daring heist, caught on CCTV, has sent shockwaves through the city. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345991- indian-tourist-targeted-in-daring-pattaya-necklace-snatch/

Photo courtesy of Pattaya News by Puntid Tantivangphaisal In a brazen act of robbery, an Indian tourist was targeted by a pair of masked bandits in the heart of Pattaya. The daring heist, caught on CCTV, has sent shockwaves through the city. In the early hours of this morning, December 12, a shocking incident unfolded on Pattaya Second Road near Soi Yensabai. Merlin Dhanapalan, an Indian national, was enjoying a late-night ride with a friend when they were ambushed by two masked assailants. The brazen duo, believed to be foreigners, approached Dhanapalan on a motorcycle. In a swift and violent move, they snatched a gold necklace worth a staggering 210,000 baht from his neck. The force of the snatch caused the thieves’ motorcycle to topple over, leading to a chaotic struggle. Despite the victims’ valiant efforts to resist, the thieves managed to flee the scene. One suspect made a daring escape on foot, while the other quickly recovered their motorcycle and sped off. CCTV footage of the incident has emerged, showing the two tall, masked suspects in action. The grainy footage captures the intense struggle between the victims and the thieves. Photo courtesy of Pattaya News Pattaya City Police are now on the hunt for the daring duo. Police Lieutenant Akkharapong Saenputawong and his team are meticulously analysing the CCTV footage and interviewing witnesses to gather crucial clues, reported Pattaya News. The police are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward and assist in their investigation. Photo courtesy of Pattaya News In related news, a 27 year old man was arrested for snatching a foreigner’s gold necklace weighing 10 baht, later pawned to fuel his online gambling habit. The arrest took place on November 28, following a detailed investigation by Phayathai Police Station officers. In other news, Patong Police investigated the theft of a gold necklace from a foreign tourist in Soi Sea Dragon, off Bangla Road, which took place on October 4. The incident, which occurred around 12.20am in front of a bar, was reported by the victim to the police. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-12 ScreenRecording_12-12-2024 06-33-05_1.mp4