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Picture courtesy: Naew Na Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul visited Koh Kood in Thailand's Trat province on Monday, accompanied by Deputy Minister Sabida Thaiseth and a delegation of ministry officials. The visit sought to clarify recent misunderstandings about the island's sovereignty and ensure continued confidence among Thai citizens and tourists, affected by misleading reports potentially harming local sentiment, business, and tourism. Anutin, also the Deputy Prime Minister, assured locals and foreign visitors that Koh Kood, part of Thailand for centuries, will remain exclusively Thai. He emphasised that no part of the island would fall under another nation's claim and welcomed Thai visitors without concern for passports or travel documents, solidifying the island as Thai territory. Clearing subsequent confusion about a 2001 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), Anutin explained it was designed to advise collaborative efforts between Thailand and Cambodia on undersea petroleum resources, maritime boundaries, and exclusive economic zones per international law. He confirmed this MoU does not involve altering Thailand’s territorial status, explicitly excluding Koh Kood. Aiming to reassure, Anutin maintained the island's beauty and approachability as an ongoing delight for tourists, promising support from him, the province, and local government. Their collective aim is to preserve natural resources, clean waters, and pristine conditions to maintain Koh Kood as a tourist haven. Addressing local concerns, Anutin acknowledged issues like scarce water supply and unresolved land ownership on the island. Plans from the Interior Ministry and collaborating agencies are underway to secure clean water for every household, consistent electricity supply, improved infrastructure, and formal land recognition. Trat Governor Nattapong Sanguanjit also noted the province's monitoring of the recent news impact and continued community-based tourism promotion, pledging visitor safety, coupled with regular tourism-boosting activities. Episodes involving the 2001 MoU have reignited opposition and activist concerns about Thailand's territory loss to Cambodia, particularly in relation to Koh Kood. This argument intensified as the Pheu Thai-led government expressed plans for energy exploration talks in disputed Gulf of Thailand zones, reported The Nation. To reinforce confidence, visits by officials such as Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai emphasise MoU44’s lack of jurisdiction over Koh Kood, promising it remains a pure Thai destination. -- 2024-11-12

Kittirat Na Ranong Chosen as BOT Board Chair Amid Protests Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Kittirat Na Ranong, a familiar face in Thailand's political landscape as a former deputy premier and finance minister, has been appointed as the chairman of the Bank of Thailand's board. This significant decision was reached by an independent selection committee led by Sathit Limpongpan. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343267-kittirat-na-ranong-chosen-as-bot-board-chair-amid-protests/

Thailand's PM Paetongtarn Pushes Airport Upgrade for Tourist Season Picture courtesy: National News Bureau of Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra recently made a noteworthy visit to Suvarnabhumi International Airport, underscoring the urgency of improvements ahead of Thailand's bustling tourist season. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343260-thailands-pm-paetongtarn-pushes-airport-upgrade-for-tourist-season/

Inmate Murder at Bangkok Prison Sparks Security Concerns - video File photo for reference only A harrowing incident unfolded at Bangkok's Minburi Remand Prison, where six inmates brutally assaulted and fatally stabbed a fellow prisoner, Yutthakarn, using improvised weapons fashioned from prison materials. This grisly attack has raised serious questions about security measures within the facility. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343252-inmate-murder-at-bangkok-prison-sparks-security-concerns-video/

to continue: Thailand Live Tuesday 12 November 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1343253-thailand-live-tuesday-12-november-2024/

Picture courtesy: National News Bureau of Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra recently made a noteworthy visit to Suvarnabhumi International Airport, underscoring the urgency of improvements ahead of Thailand's bustling tourist season. The visit saw her closely assessing the airport services alongside a delegation that included Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Suriya Juangroongruangkit and Minister of Tourism Sorawong Thienthong. This move aims to enhance service quality, elevate Thailand's status as a travel hub, and invigorate the economy through tourism. Meeting with officials at the airport, the Prime Minister highlighted the necessity of making international visitors feel welcome. She called for more cohesive efforts from various agencies and volunteers to manage the influx of tourists smoothly. She placed particular emphasis on embracing Thailand's Soft Power, envisioning efficient check-in processes bolstered by technological advancements to streamline service flows. One key feature during her visit was the airport's Biometric Identification System. This innovation leverages facial recognition technology to expedite traveller entry and exit, a crucial factor for a seamless experience, especially in northern regions recovering from recent floods. Prime Minister Shinawatra, who is set to attend the 31st Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Peru, expressed her ambition to engage further with airport authorities on these upgrades. Government Spokesperson Jirayu Huangsub revealed a 19.2% rise in passenger traffic for 2024, with major tourist contributions from China, India, and South Korea. Automated systems, like Common Use Self-Service kiosks and Automated Passport Control, have already cut waiting times significantly. Additionally, the newly opened Midfield Satellite Concourse, a nominee for UNESCO's Prix Versailles award, expands Suvarnabhumi's capacity, fortifying its position in regional tourism and aviation, reported NBT World. -- 2024-11-12

Photo via Siam Rath Mexican tourist returns pricey watch after Bangkok airport mix-up A Mexican woman on holiday with her family in Phuket agreed to return a luxury watch worth about 200,000 baht to a Thai woman, stating that she thought it belonged to a family member and mistakenly took it from Don Mueang International Airport in Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343232-no-time-to-lose-mexican-tourist-returns-pricey-watch-after-bangkok-airport-mix-up/

Kittirat Na Ranong Chosen as BOT Board Chair Amid Protests Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Kittirat Na Ranong, a familiar face in Thailand's political landscape as a former deputy premier and finance minister, has been appointed as the chairman of the Bank of Thailand's board. This significant decision was reached by an independent selection committee led by Sathit Limpongpan. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343267-kittirat-na-ranong-chosen-as-bot-board-chair-amid-protests/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Kittirat Na Ranong, a familiar face in Thailand's political landscape as a former deputy premier and finance minister, has been appointed as the chairman of the Bank of Thailand's board. This significant decision was reached by an independent selection committee led by Sathit Limpongpan. At 62, Kittirat, known for his close ties with the ruling Pheu Thai party, was chosen over other notable candidates, namely Kulit Sombatsiri, ex-permanent secretary of energy, and Surapol Nitikraipot, head of the Thammasat University Council. This appointment, however, did not settle without its share of controversy. Today, protests erupted at the Bank of Thailand's headquarters. Two activist groups gathered to voice their dissatisfaction with the Finance Ministry's nomination of Kittirat. Followers of the revered monk Luangta Maha Bua expressed apprehension about Kittirat’s political connections and potential interference in central bank affairs. Another group, led by Phichit Chaimongkhon, delivered a petition with 51,000 signatures, challenging the committee's integrity and threatening legal action if their demands weren't met. The uproar extends further as concerns arise about political influence within the central bank. Former BOT governor Veerathai Santiprabhob took to Facebook, urging citizens to protect the central bank's independence. Veerathai cautioned that political domination could jeopardise Thailand's economic stability and credibility. He warned that unchecked political influence may lead to short-sighted populist policies, prioritising fleeting political gain over sustainable fiscal discipline. This landmark appointment thus opens a wider conversation about political involvement in economic institutions, highlighting the intersection of governance and monetary policy, and its potential impact on Thailand's future, reported Thai PBS. -- 2024-11-11

Thailand eyes F1 event to boost economy and tourism by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of wikipedia Thailand is gearing up for an economic boost as the government commits to bringing a Formula 1 (F1) racing event to the country. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra announced the ambitious plan yesterday, November 9, emphasising its potential to invigorate tourism and stimulate urban development. The government is actively pursuing discussions to secure an F1 event, which is part of a larger strategy to position Thailand as a top-tier global destination. PM Paetongtarn expressed confidence in the project, stating that it would not only attract tourists but also create new income streams and drive economic growth. “It will bring new income, stimulate the economy and promote Thailand as a world-class destination.” In tandem with the F1 initiative, the Thai government is rolling out multiple tourism campaigns aimed at boosting revenue by 7.5% during the year-end season. Deputy government spokesman Karom Phonphonklang revealed plans for the Ministry of Tourism and Sports to enhance the country’s appeal through a campaign titled 72 Styles of Happiness to Experience. This initiative will feature an e-book outlining must-do activities along Thailand’s 72 highlighted routes, offering a fresh take on the nation’s attractions. Each route presents a Five Must-Do checklist, including local dishes to savour, adventurous activities to try, unique items to purchase, scenic views to enjoy, and local lifestyles to experience. Karom highlighted that five influencers will be enlisted to create travel vlogs, showcasing these routes and enticing tourists during the festive season, to maintain interest into the following year. Additionally, the Tourism Authority of Thailand is working to promote the nation’s unique charm and must-visit cities, encouraging travel across all five regions. Karom stated that this initiative aims to enhance travel frequency and visitor spending across various provinces while ensuring sustainable tourism practices, reported Bangkok Post. The array of planned activities and campaigns signals a strategic push to revitalise Thailand’s tourism sector, leveraging both traditional charm and modern attractions like the proposed F1 race. The government’s efforts reflect a commitment to economic resilience and cultural celebration, aiming to draw international attention and investment to the region. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-11

Thai PM Grateful for Father's Praise, Yet Concerned About His Health Picture courtesy: Siam Rath At 4:50 pm on 10 November, Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra gave an interview at Suvarnabhumi International Airport, addressing recent remarks by her father, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who praised her dedication and quick learning on the job. Full. story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343185-thai-pm-grateful-for-fathers-praise-yet-concerned-about-his-health/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath At 4:50 pm on 10 November, Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra gave an interview at Suvarnabhumi International Airport, addressing recent remarks by her father, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who praised her dedication and quick learning on the job. "I’m grateful for my father’s encouragement," Paetongtarn stated. "It’s always motivating to receive praise. But I am equally open to constructive criticism, as it helps me improve. No one can do everything alone, so feedback is always welcome," she added. When asked if Thaksin offered her specific advice behind the scenes, Paetongtarn said, “Not particularly. But if I have any questions, I can always ask him. He’s generous with his advice and never charges,” she remarked with a smile. The Prime Minister was also questioned about Thaksin's recent involvement in Udonthani, where he campaigned to support a local candidate. Paetongtarn admitted to feeling some concern, especially for his health. “I’m more worried about his wellbeing. He’s over 70 now, and when he falls ill, it tends to be serious. That’s my only worry,” she said, acknowledging her father's resilience. After the interview, Paetongtarn joked with reporters about her recent schedule, mentioning that it had been eight days since she last saw her family - her longest stretch apart from her children, reported Siam Rath. -- 2024-11-11

Growing Support for Central Bank Independence Amid Political Concerns Picture courtesy: Bank of Thailand (BoT) The campaign to safeguard the independence of the Bank of Thailand has gained significant momentum, with 830 academics and members of the Economics for Society group now backing the cause. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343184-growing-support-for-central-bank-independence-amid-political-concerns/

Picture courtesy: Bank of Thailand (BoT) The campaign to safeguard the independence of the Bank of Thailand has gained significant momentum, with 830 academics and members of the Economics for Society group now backing the cause. Among these supporters are four former governors of the Bank of Thailand, underscoring the importance of keeping political influence at bay. This push coincides with the upcoming selection of a new chairman and two board members for the central bank, slated for Monday, November 11, following a weeklong delay. In their third public statement, the group stressed the vital need for the selection committee to maintain the bank's independence. This comes amidst opposing views from factions with close political affiliations, who have expressed disagreement with the group’s stance. Particularly contentious is the potential appointment of Mr. Kittiratt Na Ranong as board chairman. The academics argue that while personal capabilities are important, it's crucial for the individual in this role to remain devoid of strong political ties. They fear that any association with political agendas could compromise the bank's objective monetary policy-making. The group's concerns extend beyond individual appointments. They cite historical instances, such as the 1997 Tom Yum Kung financial crisis, arguing that political influence may have contributed to past economic errors. They assert that while the Bank of Thailand has made mistakes independently, political control inherently introduces unpredictable variables and incentives, which are often detrimental to economic stability. The global precedent supports their position: central bank independence is key to credible monetary policy and controlled inflation rates. Without this independence, monetary policy becomes unreliable, potentially leading to economic instability and uncontrollable inflation. Ultimately, this growing advocacy highlights a critical dialogue on maintaining robust economic governance free from political pressures, aiming to ensure long-term financial stability and credibility, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-11-11

Director Responds to Outcry Over Cat's Treatment in TV Series Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Following widespread outrage among Thai netizens, director Sant Srikaewlao has clarified the situation regarding a black cat featured in the TV series "Mae Yua" (The Empress of Ayodhaya). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343179-director-responds-to-outcry-over-cats-treatment-in-tv-series/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Following widespread outrage among Thai netizens, director Sant Srikaewlao has clarified the situation regarding a black cat featured in the TV series "Mae Yua" (The Empress of Ayodhaya). Concerns erupted after scenes emerged showing the cat anaesthetised, experiencing convulsions, stiffness, and vomiting. Social media users questioned whether these actions violated the Animal Cruelty Act, sparking a campaign under the hashtag #MaeYuaTorturesAnimals. Animal lovers and veterinarians voiced their disapproval, highlighting the inherent risks of administering anaesthesia to animals, which can suppress respiratory and circulatory functions and potentially lead to choking due to the inability to control vomiting. In response, Sant took to Facebook to address the burgeoning controversy. He posted a detailed explanation and shared a video clip to demonstrate that the cat is now in good health. He explained that while anaesthesia was indeed used, careful precautions were taken, with the cat being attended to by its owner and professionals throughout the process. He assured viewers that the cat recovered swiftly post-filming and is now living normally, reinforcing his claims with video evidence. Understanding the depth of public concern, Sant provided an additional video clip today to further attest to the cat's current well-being. He emphasised that his production team has not overlooked public sentiment and is actively gathering information to provide clear explanations. The director’s clarification aims to alleviate concerns and reaffirm the show's commitment to animal welfare, amidst ongoing discussions about ethical treatment in entertainment settings. As discussions persist online, this incident underscores the delicate balance between creative endeavours and humane practices in media production, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-11-11

Ultra-Conservatives Urge Thai Govt to Abandon Thai-Cambodia MoU Picture courtesy: Facebook วรงค์ เดชกิจวิกรม - Warong Dechgitvigrom A rising tide of support led by the ultra-conservative Thai Pakdee party is urging the Thai government to scrap a 2001 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Cambodia. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343176-ultra-conservatives-urge-thai-govt-to-abandon-thai-cambodia-mou/

Picture courtesy: Facebook วรงค์ เดชกิจวิกรม - Warong Dechgitvigrom A rising tide of support led by the ultra-conservative Thai Pakdee party is urging the Thai government to scrap a 2001 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Cambodia. The agreement, which deals with profit-sharing in undersea resource development, has become a contentious issue, with up to 100,000 citizens encouraged to sign a petition against it. Warong Dechgitvigrom, the Thai Pakdee party chair, announced the push for signatures both online and through direct engagement with communities. The campaign targets an agreement brokered two decades ago between former Thai prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra and Cambodia's then-leader Hun Sen - a deal that remains unresolved under the shadow of overlapping territorial claims. Warong’s latest efforts took him to Koh Kood island, a small community in Trat province, to garner local support. The island itself is a tiny fraction of Trat's approximate 227,000 residents, with just 1% living on Koh Kood. Still, Warong argues that the MoU threatens Thailand’s maritime sovereignty, potentially ceding parts of its continental shelf to Cambodia due to overlapping claims. At the heart of Warong’s demands is a call for the Thai government, led by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, daughter of Thaksin Shinawatra, to insist on Cambodia's ratification of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) from 1982. This international statute outlines nations' rights and responsibilities concerning marine territorial claims and exploitation. Warong believes that without Cambodia’s adherence to UNCLOS, Thailand risks losing control over valuable maritime zones. He insists that no further negotiations on the profiteering of undersea natural resources should proceed without first addressing these territorial ambiguities. As the campaign gains momentum, the petition presents a growing challenge to the current Thai leadership, spotlighting nationalistic tensions and regional geopolitics, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-11-11

Thai Man Arrested after Slapping Russian on Bangla Road By Goongnang Suksawat Patong – A Thai man was arrested after he slapped a Russian man in the face on Bangla Road in Patong. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343172-thai-man-arrested-after-slapping-russian-on-bangla-road/

Patong – A Thai man was arrested after he slapped a Russian man in the face on Bangla Road in Patong. The Patong Police told the Phuket Express that a video clip of a foreigner being attacked in front of a famous nightclub on the Bangla Road at 4:50 A.M. on Saturday (November 9th) went viral in social media. At 3:00 P.M. on the same day the Patong Police arrested a Thai man. He was taken to the Patong Police Station. He told police that the Russian tourist showed a middle finger to him before he slapped the Russian tourist. The Thai man was charged and fined. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS -- 2024-11-11

Thai Govt Officials Gear Up for F1 Race Discussions ASEAN NOW composite Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra announced the government's renewed commitment to bring a Formula 1 (F1) race to Thailand, setting the gears in motion for what could be a major economic boost. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343149-thai-govt-officials-gear-up-for-f1-race-discussions/

ASEAN NOW composite Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra announced the government's renewed commitment to bring a Formula 1 (F1) race to Thailand, setting the gears in motion for what could be a major economic boost. This initiative forms part of a grand strategy to enhance tourism and establish Thailand as an elite global destination. In a recent post, the Prime Minister shared the government's enthusiasm for this megaproject, emphasising the potential benefits of hosting an F1 event. "We aim to attract tourists, spark excitement, and facilitate urban growth," she asserted. The envisioned influx of visitors promises to invigorate the local economy and showcase Thailand’s capability on the world stage. The move is complemented by a slew of tourism campaigns designed to bolster visitor numbers significantly. Deputy government spokesman, Karom Phonphonklang, revealed that the Ministry of Tourism and Sports is unveiling the "72 Styles of Happiness to Experience" initiative. This campaign, encapsulated in an e-book, offers distinctive activities across 72 curated travel routes in Thailand, providing a "Five Must-Do" list encouraging culinary, adventurous, and cultural experiences unique to each destination. To amplify Thailand's allure, five influencers will embark on curated travel adventures, sharing their experiences via vlogs to ignite interest during the year-end tourist season. This strategy is part of a broader goal to drive visitor spending while maintaining sustainable tourism practices. Concurrently, the Tourism Authority of Thailand is promoting the country's intrinsic charm, aiming to boost travel across all five regions. The collective efforts are expected to result in a 7.5% increase in tourism revenue by the year's end, underscoring the government’s commitment to revitalising tourism and securing its place on the international events map. This comprehensive approach highlights Thailand’s readiness to leverage world-class events for national growth and development, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-11-11

Tak Bai Justice Failure Hits Pheu Thai Party Hardest, Poll Shows Picture courtesy: Benar News An opinion poll conducted by the National Institute of Development Administration reveals that the southern provinces of Thailand place responsibility for the Tak Bai justice failure squarely on the Pheu Thai Party. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343147-tak-bai-justice-failure-hits-pheu-thai-party-hardest-poll-shows/

Picture: National Crime Agency // STV news In a remarkable breakthrough for law enforcement, a Scottish man hiding in Thailand for 40 years has been extradited and jailed for historical sexual crimes against children. John Martin, 74, originally from Haddington, East Lothian, was returned from Bangkok to face justice in Scotland after committing decades-old abuse. Martin, a former antiques dealer, was convicted of three counts of child sexual abuse on 25 October at Edinburgh Sheriff Court. His offences spanned across Perth and Kinross, Fife, and East Lothian, affecting two young victims between the 1980s and 1990s. The Edinburgh court sentenced Martin to three years and three months in prison. His name will be added permanently to the sex offenders register, and he is barred from any contact with his victims for 20 years. Lynne Barrie, procurator fiscal for Lothian and Borders, denounced him as a "sexual predator" who traumatised vulnerable girls, and praised the victims' courage for coming forward. Martin's capture and trial were the result of a coordinated effort involving Police Scotland, the National Crime Agency (NCA), the Royal Thai Police's Central Investigation Bureau, and Thailand's Office of the Attorney General. This complex international operation highlights the determination of these agencies to pursue justice for such grave crimes. Duncan Burrage, NCA Liaison Officer for Thailand, remarked on the agency's commitment to tracking down British child sex offenders worldwide. Sergeant Richard Robson of Police Scotland expressed solidarity with the victims and their families, acknowledging their bravery in reporting the crimes and ensuring that Martin faced consequences for his heinous acts. As justice is served, there remains a firm commitment from law enforcement to protect vulnerable individuals and hold offenders accountable, regardless of the time or distance involved in their capture, reported STV news. -- 2024-11-11

Picture courtesy: Benar News An opinion poll conducted by the National Institute of Development Administration reveals that the southern provinces of Thailand place responsibility for the Tak Bai justice failure squarely on the Pheu Thai Party. The poll, targeting residents of Yala, Pattani, and Narathiwat, casts a spotlight on the lingering outrage over the lack of accountability in the case of the 2004 Tak Bai massacre. In 2004, a protest in Tak Bai, Narathiwat, escalated when demonstrators demanded the release of detained defence volunteers. Authorities attempted to disperse the crowd, leading to seven immediate deaths. Tragically, 78 more lives were lost due to suffocation when over 1,300 protesters were packed into military trucks. This tragic event occurred under the leadership of then-Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. According to the poll, 55.20% of respondents believe the Pheu Thai Party is most affected by the failure to deliver justice in the Tak Bai case. A further 29.99% opine that no political party will suffer. Meanwhile, a small percentage sees this issue impacting the Prachachat Party (4.69%), Democrat Party (1.97%), and others mildly. Contrastingly, when asked if the Tak Bai case influences their voting decision in the next general election, 39.55% of respondents say it does not affect them at all, while 25.21% firmly state it will have an impact. Regarding political preferences, 50.14% of the surveyed populace are undecided on the party they support, although the People's Party garners 18.85% approval, outpacing others including Prachachat (13.68%) and Pheu Thai (4.69%). The findings highlight significant political disenchantment in Thailand's southernmost provinces, reflecting wider discontent with historical grievances unresolved to this day, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-11-11