webfact

Sparse information has been shared by Swedish media about a Swedish man who last week – end of July – was arrested in Thailand for “serious crime”. According to SVT News, the man is around 65 years old. “The Foreign Ministry is aware that a Swedish citizen, a 65-year-old man from Norrland, was detained in Thailand in July. Due to consular confidentiality, we cannot comment further on the individual case,” says Hanna Johansen at the Foreign Ministry’s press service to SVT. According to the North Sweden news site Norran.se which first reported about the arrest, Thai police has not yet requested assistance from Swedish police. “Skellefteå police has not received any request to assist with any investigative measures in the case,” says police chief Lars Westermark. by Gregers Møller Top: Central Police station in Skellefteå, northern Sweden. Photo: screen shot from Google maps. Full story: ScandAsia 2024-08-02 - 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

Bt871m Worth of Gold Seized from Ex-Revenue Chief Sathit Rangkhasiri Gold confiscated. File photo source: Wikipedia A major corruption ruling has taken the spotlight today. The Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases has ordered the confiscation of gold worth approximately Bt871 million from Sathit Rangkhasiri, the former director-general of the Revenue Department. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334419-bt871m-worth-of-gold-seized-from-ex-revenue-chief sathit rangkhasiri/

Gold confiscated. File photo source: Wikipedia A major corruption ruling has taken the spotlight today. The Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases has ordered the confiscation of gold worth approximately Bt871 million from Sathit Rangkhasiri, the former director-general of the Revenue Department. This decision concludes that Sathit was found "unusually rich," leading to the seizure of his vast gold holdings. On 17th July, the court confirmed that Sathit illegally amassed 15 gold bars weighing a total of 317.99 kilograms. This significant verdict was revealed publicly today by Niwatchai Kasemmongkol, the secretary-general of the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC). Back in October 2016, the NACC charged Sathit with unexplained wealth after discovering his substantial purchase of gold bullion from Hua Seng Heng Commoditas Company Limited. Since 2019, the confiscated gold bars have been under the NACC’s custody, stored securely at the Bank of Thailand. Adding to Sathit’s legal woes, he and another senior revenue official, Siripong Riyakarnthirachote, received life sentences in August 2021. The duo was convicted by the same corruption court for their role in approving fraudulent VAT refunds totaling around three billion baht to 25 companies between 2012 and 2013. Alongside them, a third party, Prasit Ariyachote, was given a six-year prison term for related offences. In a further blow, the court has ordered the convicts to collectively recompense the Revenue Department for the illicit VAT refunds amounting to three billion baht. This ruling aims to recover the significant financial losses caused by the fraudulent activities. Today's development shines a spotlight on the ongoing fight against corruption, marking a substantial victory for transparency and accountability within public offices. The clear message: ill-gotten wealth and fraudulent conduct will not be tolerated. -- 2024-08-02 - 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

Thaksin Shinawatra Told To Stop Overpowering Srettha Thavisin Srettha Thavisin (L), Thaksin Shinawatra (R). Image composite courtesy: Thai Rath In an insightful commentary today, Pichai Ratanadilok na Phuket, from the National Institute of Development Administration, urged influential Pheu Thai Party figure Thaksin Shinawatra to cease exerting his behind-the-scenes sway over Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334415-thaksin-shinawatra-told-to-stop-overpowering-srettha thavisin/

Srettha Thavisin (L), Thaksin Shinawatra (R). Image composite courtesy: Thai Rath In an insightful commentary today, Pichai Ratanadilok na Phuket, from the National Institute of Development Administration, urged influential Pheu Thai Party figure Thaksin Shinawatra to cease exerting his behind-the-scenes sway over Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. Pichai highlighted concerns that Thaksin's omnipresence has steadily eroded the party’s popularity. The backdrop to this development revolves around Thaksin's perceived role as a backstage puppet master, jeopardising Srettha’s autonomy. Allegations suggest that he steers party policies and indirectly influences governmental decisions, creating tensions within the party and dissatisfaction among its grassroots supporters. Pichai stressed that Thaksin's invisible hand in governance has significantly impacted Srettha's economic policies, rendering them lacklustre and failing to meet public expectations. The academic further postulated that to restore confidence in the government, Thaksin should completely withdraw from political manoeuvrings, allowing Srettha and other officials to lead without interference. This shift, he argued, would consolidate a singular leadership, eliminating any ambiguity regarding who holds true authority. Currently, Thaksin, entangled in legal battles and having recently been denied permission for a private trip to Dubai, continues to influence significant government campaigns. Notably, projects like the 10,000-baht digital wallet initiative aim to rejuvenate public support amidst economic challenges but have sparked controversy due to their populist undertones and delayed implementation. Moreover, Pichai anticipates that Srettha might be acquitted by the Constitutional Court in an ongoing impeachment lawsuit, potentially avoiding a severe political crisis. This case revolves around the contentious appointment of Pichit Chuenban, a former lawyer with a tarnished reputation linked to Thaksin, as a minister. If Srettha is deemed guilty, it could precipitate an immediate loss of his prime ministerial status, thrusting the country into another leadership vacuum. Even if such a crisis were to unfold, Thaksin is expected to manoeuvre meticulously to keep the prime ministerial post within his party. Possible successors might include Pheu Thai MP Chaikasem Nitisiri or even Thaksin’s daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, although internal opposition casts doubt on the latter's viability, reported Thai Newsroom. As the political drama unfolds, the key question remains whether Thaksin will heed advice and allow a clearer, more independent leadership to emerge within the Pheu Thai Party. -- 2024-08-02 - 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 Friday 2 August 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1334414-thailand-live-friday-2-august-2024/

Japanese man detained for attempted sexual assault on an intoxicated Thai woman File photo. A Japanese man was arrested for attempting to sexually assault an inebriated Thai lady on Royal City Avenue (RCA), Bangkok, in the early morning hours of Sunday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334405-japanese-man-detained-for-attempted-sexual-assault-on-an-intoxicated-thai-woman/

Four thieves from Thailand were apprehended by the police for stealing marijuana plants from a farm in Nakhon Phanom, a province within the Isaan region. Their intention was to kickstart their own marijuana farming business. Thai Bandits Arrested for Stealing Marijuana Plants to Start Their Own Business Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334394-thai-bandits-arrested-for-stealing-marijuana-plants-to-start-their-own-business/

Thailand Eyes 8 Million Chinese Tourists for 2024 with Fresh Strategies Picture courtesy: workpointTODAY The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is ambitiously targeting 8 million Chinese tourists in 2024, diversifying its focus to appeal to niche markets such as young travellers, small business groups, and caravan tours. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334343-thailand-eyes-8-million-chinese-tourists-for-2024-with-fresh-strategies/

Picture courtesy: workpointTODAY The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is ambitiously targeting 8 million Chinese tourists in 2024, diversifying its focus to appeal to niche markets such as young travellers, small business groups, and caravan tours. Nonglux Yooyendee, director of TAT's Shanghai office, noted that current demand among Chinese is insufficient to encourage airlines to increase flights to Thailand. Contributing factors include high unemployment rates and a downturn in China’s real estate market, significantly impacting the middle-class segment. This demographic, accounting for over a third of the population, is opting for closer destinations like Hong Kong and Macau, rather than international travel. In 2022, 87 million Chinese travelled abroad, a sharp decline from 155 million in 2019, according to the China Tourism Academy. The figure is expected to rise to 130 million this year, still below pre-pandemic levels. Post-pandemic trends reveal a shift towards independent travel among Chinese tourists, with young travellers showing a growing interest in overseas destinations. Social media data supports this trend, highlighting a decline in traditional tour groups in favour of tailor-made experiences. Capitalising on this, TAT organised a June trip for Chinese travellers with pets, which was well-received, showcasing Thailand’s pet-friendly accommodations. In 2019, over 4 million Chinese visitors arrived from Shanghai and nearby provinces. Currently, flight capacity has recovered to 80%, with 60,000 seats available weekly. Boonrapee Damrongrat, director of TAT's Guangzhou office, reported high demand for business-related travel from the Southern provinces. While corporate travel spending has become more cautious amid economic uncertainties, the demand for high-quality, tailor-made travel packages remains strong. Despite this demand, Boonrapee mentioned that Thai destination management companies are currently unable to offer sufficiently attractive packages. Ruedee Cheawsamoot, director of TAT's Kunming office, sees potential for cross-border travel from Kunming through Laos. With a mix of independent and group travellers, new direct trains between Bangkok and Vientiane could connect with the Laos-China railway, enticing Chinese visitors. Chinese travel agents are preparing packages exploiting Laos' visa-free policy for group travellers. However, challenges remain. Despite visa-free travel schemes, Chinese tourists face cumbersome immigration procedures for foreign vehicles and complicated temporary driving licence applications in Thailand. -- 2024-08-01 - 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 defence minister demands US offset details for F-16 jets by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Defence Minister Sutin Klungsang urged the United States to provide comprehensive details on the offset policy related to acquiring F-16 fighter jets by today. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334341-thai-defence-minister-demands-us-offset-details-for-f-16-jets/

Defence Minister Sutin Klungsang urged the United States to provide comprehensive details on the offset policy related to acquiring F-16 fighter jets by today. The Thai government remains undecided on whether to opt for the Swedish-made Gripen by Saab AB or the US-made F-16 Block 70/72 by Lockheed Martin for its air force. The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) aims to purchase four new fighter jets to replace a dozen ageing F-16s slated for decommissioning soon. Previously, sources indicated a preference for the Gripen. Sutin emphasised the need for detailed information about offsets before reaching a decision, specifying that Washington must submit the required data by today. Under the offset policy, the Thai government mandates that the armed forces consider other reciprocal benefits offered by prospective suppliers as a significant factor in procuring new military equipment. Sutin’s comments followed a meeting at Government House between Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and Robert Godec, the US ambassador. The discussion focused on joint efforts to combat narcotics. Reports indicated that Lockheed Martin representatives accompanied the US ambassador and the fighter jet procurement plan was discussed in a smaller group setting. According to a source, the US representatives informed the prime minister that Washington would offer additional benefits to Thailand. Sutin has been invited to visit the US and meet with US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin in mid-August, reported Bangkok Post. ORIGINAL STORY: Thailand undecided between Swedish Gripen and US F-16 jets Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin confirmed the government remains undecided on whether to select the Swedish-made Gripen or the US-made F-16 for the Royal Thai Air Force‘s (RTAF) new fighter jet procurement project. Details of the required offset policy from Saab AB and Lockheed Martin, manufacturers of the Gripen E/F and the F-16 Block 70/72 respectively, are still pending, according to the prime minister yesterday. The offset policy is a crucial factor that, along with other reciprocal benefits, will influence the fighter jet procurement decision, PM Srettha stated. The armed forces have been instructed to consider these benefits carefully as part of their evaluation process. “No conclusion has been made at this point as the offset policy details have yet to be submitted. “However, I will try to get this done as soon as possible while encouraging these two companies to try their very best.” “This isn’t a small amount of money. So, we have to achieve the maximum benefit for the public interest.” PMThe 62 year old Thai premier did not specify when a decision would be made, citing uncertainty about the urgency of the procurement project. “If we are not ready or there is a lack of information needed to make a decision, we won’t rush it” Despite asserting that the government does not interfere in the RTAF’s decision-making process, the prime minister confirmed that the final decision must be agreeable to both the RTAF and the government. A committee within the RTAF has indicated a preference for the Gripen, Srettha mentioned. Additionally, he disclosed that he had contacted Robert Godec, the US ambassador to Thailand, on July 15 to expedite the submission of offset policy details related to the F-16 procurement. The Bangkok-born prime minister stressed the importance of conducting a thorough comparison between the Gripen E/F and the F-16 Block 70/72, reported Bangkok Post. Lockheed Martin announced on July 15 that it would continue to provide economic value to Thailand through a strong industrial participation or offset proposal, driven by the Thai government’s assessment of the F-16s. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post -- 2024-08-01 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Eyes Olympic Glory in Boxing, Taekwondo, and Badminton Paris Olympics. Picture courtesy: Facebook Thai Rath With the Olympic cauldron now ablaze in Paris, Thailand's hopes for glory are fervent. As athletes from the nation take their positions on the global stage, the pursuit of gold medals unites fans and competitors alike. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334340-thailand-eyes-olympic-glory-in-boxing-taekwondo-and-badminton/

Paris Olympics. Picture courtesy: Facebook Thai Rath With the Olympic cauldron now ablaze in Paris, Thailand's hopes for glory are fervent. As athletes from the nation take their positions on the global stage, the pursuit of gold medals unites fans and competitors alike. Thailand has dispatched a formidable team of 51 athletes to compete across 17 different sports, with lofty ambitions of securing six gold medals in boxing, taekwondo, badminton, weightlifting, and golf. This objective marks a significant leap from their sole gold medal in taekwondo at the Tokyo 2020 Games. Boxing Dreams Historically, boxing has been Thailand's stronghold at the Olympics. The nation achieved its first Olympic gold in 1996 through Somluck Kamsing. Subsequent victories from Wijan Ponlid (2000), Manus Boonjumnong (2004), and Somjit Jongjohor (2008) fortified Thailand's boxing legacy. However, the current tournament has seen surprising early exits for stars like Thitisan Panmod and Jutamas Jitpong. Now, all eyes are on 32-year-old Bunjong Sinsiri, who advanced to the quarterfinals after a thrilling 3-2 victory over Venezuela’s Jesus Cova in the men's 63.5kg category. Taekwondo Triumph Panipak Wongpattanakit, Thailand’s flag-bearer in taekwondo, made history with her dramatic gold medal finish in Tokyo. Despite battling injuries, the 26-year-old aims to overcome the odds and capture another gold in what she has announced will be her final Olympics. Badminton First For the first time, Thailand will compete in all five badminton categories. Kunlavut Vitidsarn, the reigning world champion, leads the charge, aiming to secure Thailand’s first Olympic medal in the sport. His recent struggles to maintain top form have only intensified his resolve. Weightlifting and Golf Comebacks After a hiatus due to a doping scandal, Thailand's weightlifting team is eager for redemption. Weeraphon Wichuma and Duangaksorn Chaidee are among the top medal hopefuls. In golf, Atthaya Thitikul and Patty Tavatanakit, both ranking within the top 15 globally, carry the nation's aspiration for medals. -- 2024-08-01 - 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 Workers in Northern Israel Advised to Take Shelter Due to Hezbollah Threat Warning issued. Picture courtesy: MGR online The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) has alerted approximately 2,000 Thai nationals working in northern Israel to the potential threat of an attack from Hezbollah, a group allied with the Palestinian militant organisation Hamas. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334336-thai-workers-in-northern-israel-advised-to-take-shelter-due-to-hezbollah-threat/

Warning issued. Picture courtesy: MGR online The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) has alerted approximately 2,000 Thai nationals working in northern Israel to the potential threat of an attack from Hezbollah, a group allied with the Palestinian militant organisation Hamas. These individuals have been urged to seek shelter in bunkers for their safety. Nikorndej Balankura, the MFA spokesperson, issued this warning yesterday in response to rising tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, and the possible escalation of conflict in the region. Israeli troops have disclosed their operation in Beirut, Lebanon, aimed at targeting those responsible for an attack on Majdal Sham City, which resulted in the deaths of 12 children on July 27. The Israeli Security Unit has assessed the likelihood of Hezbollah launching retaliatory missile attacks on key cities such as Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Haifa. Consequently, the Israeli army has advised residents in northern Israel to avoid social gatherings and cancel any non-essential activities until further notice. Nikorndej mentioned that the Royal Thai Embassy in Israel has instructed Thai workers near the Israel-Lebanon border to exercise caution and adhere to local officials’ guidelines. The embassy has already issued a warning about the situation and urged Thai nationals to remain in bunkers. “We also ask them to avoid travelling in risky areas,” he stated. “The Thai embassy has not yet received any evacuation requests from Thais in the area, but we have an emergency evacuation plan in place. We are collaborating closely with Israel.” The ministry is prioritising the safety of Thai nationals in Israel and has advised them to leave if necessary, reported Bangkok Post. There are three stages of warnings: closely monitoring the situation and staying in bunkers, evacuation by Israeli officials, and evacuation by the Royal Thai Embassy. As of now, the situation remains at stage one. Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-01 - 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 shot over 10,000 baht debt near Chon Buri petrol station by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A gang of brutal money lenders shot a 34 year old man after he failed to repay a debt of 10,000 baht. The incident occurred last night at 8.30pm near a PTT petrol station on the Chon Buri-Pattaya bypass road in Ban Suan, Mueang district, Chon Buri. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334335-man-shot-over-10000-baht-debt-near-chon-buri-petrol-station/

A gang of brutal money lenders shot a 34 year old man after he failed to repay a debt of 10,000 baht. The incident occurred last night at 8.30pm near a PTT petrol station on the Chon Buri-Pattaya bypass road in Ban Suan, Mueang district, Chon Buri. Responding to the scene, police and rescue workers found shell casings and a bullet that had not been fired. Narongrit Thongsombat was discovered with two gunshot wounds to his torso. Rescue workers provided immediate first aid before rushing him to Chon Buri Hospital. Nearby, a black Nissan car with the license plate 6254 Bangkok, belonging to Narongrit, was parked by the roadside. At the scene, three shell casings from .38 and 9mm bullets were found, along with a trail of blood leading into the petrol station. Narongrit recounted the event, stating that he was pursued by the gang on motorcycles. They confronted him, demanding repayment of the 10,000 baht (US$ 280) he still owed. When Narongrit explained that he did not have the money, the lenders became enraged, verbally abusing him before pulling out a gun and shooting him twice in the torso. Narongrit managed to flee, seeking help. A passerby who helped notify the police described the chaotic scene. “I saw the injured man running towards me, clearly in distress and bleeding. When I asked what had happened, he replied that he had been shot and needed immediate help. I quickly contacted the police and rescue workers for assistance.” Another eyewitness, a local, provided further details. “I saw the injured man speaking with the shooter, who arrived on a motorcycle. Suddenly, the shooter pulled out a gun and fired three shots. The injured man then ran away, seeking help.” The police plan to conduct a thorough investigation, including questioning Narongrit again and reviewing CCTV footage from the area to identify and apprehend the perpetrators, reported KhaoSod. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-01 - 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

Korean Drug Gang Deputy Nabbed in Pattaya Koren drug boss arrested in Pattaya. Picture courtesy: Daily News In a startling operation, the Chonburi Immigration and Narcotics Control Board has apprehended the deputy leader of a notorious Korean drug gang, Mr. Soi Jin Tae, while he was leisurely walking along Pattaya 3rd Road in Chonburi Province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334334-korean-drug-gang-deputy-nabbed-in-pattaya/

Koren drug boss arrested in Pattaya. Picture courtesy: Daily News In a startling operation, the Chonburi Immigration and Narcotics Control Board has apprehended the deputy leader of a notorious Korean drug gang, Mr. Soi Jin Tae, while he was leisurely walking along Pattaya 3rd Road in Chonburi Province. This arrest follows a tip-off from the Office of the Narcotics Control Board and the issuance of an arrest warrant by South Korean authorities. On July 31, Pol. Col. Naphasapong Khositsuriyamanee, Superintendent of Chonburi Immigration, acted promptly on information regarding the fugitive's presence in Pattaya. Pol. Lt. Col. Wirachai Klinkomut and his team swiftly verified that Mr. Soi Jin Tae, aged 40 and of Korean nationality, had overstayed his visa and devised a plan to detain him. Upon his capture, Mr. Soi Jin Tae confessed to being the deputy leader of a South Korean drug gang. This gang is known for smuggling drugs from Thailand to South Korea by concealing substances on women's bodies. The gang's modus operandi was uncovered when women couriers were arrested at the airport, subsequently implicating Mr. Choi Jin Tae as the mastermind behind the smuggling operations. The economic incentive for smuggling drugs to Korea is striking. The street value of 'Ice' (crystal methamphetamine) in Korea is approximately 13 million baht per kilogram, and ketamine is valued at around 5.2 million baht per kilogram. Mr. Soi Jin Tae played a crucial role in arranging drugs within Thailand for shipment back to Korea, significantly profiting from the higher market prices there. Initially, Mr. Soi Jin Tae is being prosecuted for the charge of "overstaying in the Kingdom of Thailand." Chonburi authorities are coordinating with South Korean police to hand him over for further legal proceedings in his home country. -- 2024-08-01 - 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

Shameless Buriram school insists janitor pays 25,000 baht pickup bill by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A shameless school in Buriram has driven a school janitor into poverty after insisting he pays for repairs to the old school bus he drives. The unnamed school insists he pays a 25,000 baht repair bill despite being on a modest monthly salary of 10,000 baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334333-shameless-buriram-school-insists-janitor-pays-25000-baht-pickup-bill/

A shameless school in Buriram has driven a school janitor into poverty after insisting he pays for repairs to the old school bus he drives. The unnamed school insists he pays a 25,000 baht repair bill despite being on a modest monthly salary of 10,000 baht. Kritsana Pitakkoet has been employed as a janitor at a local school for more than a decade. In addition to his janitorial duties, the 51 year old man was tasked with driving the school’s 37 year old Toyota Hero vehicle to transport students. Recently, this ageing vehicle broke down, and the school sent it for repairs, which cost 25,000 baht. Upon completion of the repairs, the school principal decided that Kritsana, being the driver, should bear the full cost of the repairs. With a monthly salary of 10,000 baht, Kritsana faced an initial deduction of 9,000 baht from his paycheck. This left him with only 1,000 baht for the month, prompting him to voice his concerns. “I have been working as a janitor here for about 10 years, earning a monthly salary of 10,000 baht. Recently, the principal assigned me to drive the students using the school’s old pickup truck, which is now 37 years old and has several issues, especially with the engine.” The incident occurred when Kritsana took two days off for personal matters in Bangkok. During his absence, the deputy head of Na Pho Subdistrict Municipality took over his driving duties. Upon Kritsana’s return, the principal informed him that the vehicle’s engine had broken down and required repairs, for which he would be responsible. Initially unaware of the repair costs, Kritsana was later presented with a bill amounting to 24,600 baht. The principal expected him to cover the entire amount. Shocked by this demand, Kritsana felt it was unfair, as he was only tasked with driving the vehicle, not to maintain it. Forced to resign At the end of the month, Kritsana’s salary was reduced by 9,500 baht, leaving him with a mere 500 baht. The principal insisted on recovering the remaining 15,000 baht from future paychecks, prompting Kritsana to submit his resignation as a janitor. Following Kritsana’s resignation, his daughter took to social media, seeking assistance. This public plea led to the principal calling Kritsana for another discussion. The principal offered to let Kritsana return to work but insisted on deducting 3,000 baht per month from his salary over the next five months to cover the remaining repair costs. Kritsana’s daughter, however, opposed this arrangement, arguing that it was unjust, reported KhaoSod. “I am just a janitor, but when my superior assigned me to drive, I complied. However, I believe it is unfair to make me pay for the repairs, especially considering the vehicle’s poor condition and its advanced age.” by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-01 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Thursday 1 August 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334332-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-thursday-1-august-2024/

The House of Representatives approved a supplementary bill to boost the current fiscal year's budget by 122 billion baht, funding the government's digital wallet handout scheme. The bill passed its final reading with 292 MPs in favor and 161 against. However, the Move Forward Party leader cautioned against further borrowing, noting that Thailand's public debt is near its ceiling. A Thai Oil Company has denied agreeing to pay 567 million baht to settle subcontractors' unpaid wages. Over 8,000 workers protested in April, leading to labor authorities mediating the dispute. An initial offer of 2,000 to 3,000 baht was rejected, prompting another protest yesterday. The company stated that the unpaid wages are the responsibility of the subcontractors. The Criminal Court has issued a warrant for a 36-year-old company CEO and relative of a former foreign minister after he failed to appear in court yesterday for a ruling on a rape case brought by a 21-year-old actress. Mr. Aphidit's absence prompted the judge to order the confiscation of his 1-million-baht surety and reschedule the ruling to September 20th. Former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra was denied permission to leave for Dubai for medical treatment. Thaksin had planned to depart today and return on the 16th. This decision comes just three weeks before he is scheduled to appear in court on August 19th to hear evidence in a lèse-majesté case against him. Around the region. North Korea wants to reopen nuclear talks with the United States if Donald Trump is re-elected as president and is working to devise a new negotiating strategy. This according to a senior North Korean diplomat who recently defected to South Korea. Myanmar's military government extended it’s state of emergency for another six months yesterday The junta has said it will hold an election next year. Todays Weather Chiang Mai and the north: light rain 28C degrees celsius Bangkok: Cloudy with Thunderstorms this afternoon 31 Pattaya: Cloudy with thunder showers 31 Phuket and the south: Cloudy thundershowers 30 Hua Hin: bright but Cloudy with showers likely this afternoon 32 Much the same over the weekend . AQI: green which is good Green clear, yellow moderate, Orange High, Red unhealthy. Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Wunderground.com The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Windy.com. -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-08-01 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya Plans Red Line Monorail to Boost Urban Mobility Artist impression. Picture courtesy: Future South East Asia Pattaya City is set to enhance its public transport infrastructure with the introduction of a new monorail system known as the Red Line. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334331-pattaya-plans-red-line-monorail-to-boost-urban-mobility/