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Thai Airways extends engine contract with GE Aerospace by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Shutterstock via Asian Aviation Thai Airways (THAI) has just inked a six-year extension with GE Aerospace for their TrueChoice service, ensuring the top-notch maintenance, repair, and overhaul of its GE90 engine-powered Boeing 777 fleet. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333964-thai-airways-extends-engine-contract-with-ge-aerospace/

Thai Airways (THAI) has just inked a six-year extension with GE Aerospace for their TrueChoice service, ensuring the top-notch maintenance, repair, and overhaul of its GE90 engine-powered Boeing 777 fleet. Russell Stokes, President and CEO of Commercial Engines and Services for GE Aerospace, stated that GE Aerospace is honoured that THAI continues to select us to keep its GE90 fleet operating safely and reliably. “We greatly appreciate their partnership, and it is a privilege to continue delivering exceptional services and customer support.” The TrueChoice service offers a comprehensive suite of engine maintenance solutions that are fully customised to an engine’s lifecycle. Leveraging GE Aerospace’s cutting-edge data analytics and extensive experience, TrueChoice aims to minimise maintenance burdens and prevent service disruptions. THAI CEO Chai Eamsiri affirmed that GE Aerospace continues to prove itself as the right maintenance provider for our GE90 engines. “This agreement extension ensures comprehensive coverage for our engines well into the future.” The partnership between THAI and GE Aerospace doesn’t end here. Recently, they announced a GEnx order to support the expansion of THAI’s 787 Dreamliner fleet. The airline also plans to enhance its operations with the Airbus 321neo, powered by CFM LEAP engines, reported Asian Aviation. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Shutterstock via Asian Aviation Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-27 - 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’s economy to grow 2.7% this year by Sarishti Arora Picture courtesy of Tom De Decker from pexels.com Thailand’s economy is projected to grow 2.7% this year, an increase from the previous forecast of 2.4%, driven by higher foreign tourist arrivals and stronger exports, according to the Ministry of Finance. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333961-thailand’s-economy-to-grow-27-this-year/

Thailand’s economy is projected to grow 2.7% this year, an increase from the previous forecast of 2.4%, driven by higher foreign tourist arrivals and stronger exports, according to the Ministry of Finance. Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul highlighted the positive outlook, attributing it to improving economic conditions among trading partners. He noted that growth could potentially reach 3% this year, contingent on the implementation of forthcoming policies. “We see positive signs from exports due to improving economic growth from trading partners, It’s a good number, but we have to do better.” The growth forecast does not include the impact of a 450-billion-baht (US$12.5 billion) cash handout scheme set to be introduced in the fourth quarter. Paopoom mentioned that this initiative could contribute an additional 1.2 to 1.8 percentage points to the growth rate. Exports are anticipated to rise by 2.7% this year, surpassing the earlier forecast of 2.4%. Tourism remains a crucial component of The Thaiger’s economy, the second-largest in Southeast Asia. The ministry now expects 36 million foreign arrivals this year, who are likely to stay longer and spend an estimated 1.69 trillion baht more, thanks to relaxed visa requirements. The previous forecast expected 35.7 million foreign arrivals with projected spending of 1.59 trillion baht, Paopoom added. Last year, the Thai economy expanded by 1.9%, a slower pace than anticipated and below the 2.5% growth recorded in 2022. The ministry also observed that the baht is expected to trade at an average of 36.2 baht per dollar, slightly weaker than the 36 baht seen in April, due to capital outflows in the first half of the year, reported Bangkok Post. by Sarishti Arora Picture courtesy of Tom De Decker from pexels.com Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-27 - 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 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thaksin Unfazed by Impeachment Case Against PM Srettha Thaksin Shinawatra. Photo courtesy: Siam Rath Thaksin Shinawatra, former Thai prime minister and influential political figure, reassured reporters today that he feels no concern regarding the impeachment lawsuit filed against current Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333958-thaksin-unfazed-by-impeachment-case-against-pm-srettha/

Thaksin Shinawatra, former Thai prime minister and influential political figure, reassured reporters today that he feels no concern regarding the impeachment lawsuit filed against current Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. Speaking from his Chan Song Lah residence, Thaksin stated the case against Srettha appears baseless, asserting that the Prime Minister had acted "transparently and honestly" in his appointment of Pichit Chuenban to the Prime Minister’s Office. Pichit, a former lawyer for Thaksin, was granted a ministerial seat in the Pheu Thai-led cabinet earlier this year. However, the decision drew criticism and legal scrutiny, culminating in the current impeachment proceedings. The impeachment case, filed by a group of 40 senators, alleges that Srettha breached the constitution and ethical guidelines by appointing Pichit, who has a criminal record. Although Pichit resigned amidst mounting pressure, the senators argue that the illegality of his appointment remains and constitutes sufficient grounds for Srettha’s impeachment. Despite these challenges, Thaksin expressed confidence in Srettha's ability to defend himself, highlighting his belief that the prime minister did not intentionally violate any laws. The Constitutional Court is set to deliver its verdict on August 14. If found guilty, Srettha could be removed from office, throwing the Pheu Thai party into turmoil. The stakes are high not only for Srettha but also for Thaksin, whose political legacy and influence continue to loom large over Thai politics. Thaksin insisted that the process was above board and compliant with legal and ethical standards, dismissing the lawsuit as politically motivated. As the August 14 hearing approaches, all eyes in Thailand remain fixed on the Constitutional Court, which will determine the future of the Srettha administration and potentially reshape the political landscape. Thaksin Shinawatra. Photo courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2024-07-27 - 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

Passport Sales Arrest Sparks Thai PM's Crackdown on Gray Capital Billboard in Bangkok. Picture courtesy: Thai PBS Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has ordered a strict crackdown on gray capital operations following the shocking discovery of a billboard at Huai Khwang intersection advertising the sale of passports from four countries. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333957-passport-sales-arrest-sparks-thai-pms-crackdown-on-gray-capital/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has ordered a strict crackdown on gray capital operations following the shocking discovery of a billboard at Bangkok's Huai Khwang intersection advertising the sale of passports from four countries. In recent weeks, government agencies have been on high alert for any influx of illegal capital disguised as tourism. Srettha recently held talks with Pol. Lt. Gen. Thiti Sangsawang, the Metropolitan Police Commissioner, to delve into the advertisement incident. He has called for a thorough investigation to uproot the issue at its core. Xin Ling, identified as a fugitive and wanted in China for document forgery, was apprehended at Don Mueang International Airport while trying to leave the country. Thai immigration officials have since revoked his permission to stay in Thailand, and a deportation order has been issued. Authorities uncovered evidence on Xin Ling's phone that implicated his wife, Su Na, in the passport sales operation. She confessed to using her husband's phone to contact potential clients but insisted no transactions had taken place. Su Na has been charged with working without a permit, sentenced to four months in prison, and fined 5,000 baht. However, her sentence has been suspended for one year, and she has been blacklisted from entering Thailand again. This high-profile crackdown indicates the Thai government's robust stance against illegal operations, promising further measures to prevent similar activities in the future. Billboard in Bangkok. Picture courtesy: Thai PBS -- 2024-07-27 - 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

Biothai Links Thai Farm to Blackchin Tilapia Spread Picture courtesy: Thai PBS The Biothai Foundation has revealed striking claims regarding the rapid proliferation of the Blackchin tilapia fish species in Thailand, asserting that the invasive spread can be linked to a single source: the Yeesarn fish farm in Samut Sakhon’s Ampawa district, operated by Charoen Pokphand Foods (CPF). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333955-biothai-links-thai-farm-to-blackchin-tilapia-spread/#google_vignette

The Biothai Foundation has revealed striking claims regarding the rapid proliferation of the Blackchin tilapia fish species in Thailand, asserting that the invasive spread can be linked to a single source: the Yeesarn fish farm in Samut Sakhon’s Ampawa district, operated by Charoen Pokphand Foods (CPF). Witoon Lianjamroon, the secretary-general of Biothai Foundation, shared these allegations during a seminar held yesterday. He underscored that CPF has been the sole private company authorised by the Fisheries Department to import Blackchin tilapia into Thailand since 2010. This exclusivity places CPF in the spotlight as the primary suspect in the current ecological disruption. Lianjamroon cited reports from the Fisheries Department, which detailed how the Yeesarn fish farm, nestled among numerous local canals like Don Jan, Luang, Jek, Somboon, Saphan Han, Tamon, and Phi Lok, utilises these waterways for its operations. He contended that breaches in bio-safety protocols at this fish farm facilitated the release and subsequent spread of the invasive species. The ripple effects of this breach have been significant. The National Human Rights Commission, tasked with probing the impact of invasive species on local communities, has identified the Yeesarn fish farm as a critical failure point. Their findings suggest that the Blackchin tilapia has not just contaminated local canals but has also infiltrated fish and shrimp farms in Samut Sakhon and the neighbouring province of Phetchaburi. Lianjamroon criticised the misleading public statements suggesting that all 2,000 imported Blackchin tilapia had perished within 16 days of arrival in Thailand, with proper disposal measures purportedly taken. He argued that this narrative was constructed to downplay the severity of the ecological invasion. The Biothai Foundation, affiliated with the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) Watch group, continually monitors the impacts of international trade agreements on resources and small-scale farmers. Their analysis suggests this incident underscores the need for stringent bio-safety measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future. Picture courtesy: Thai PBS -- 2024-07-27 - 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 Says He's Too Old to Run for PM Again at 75 Picture courtesy: Thai PBS Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has declared he is too old to return to Thailand’s top political post. Despite his retirement from active politics, Thaksin hinted he might still guide his daughter, Pheu Thai Party leader Paetongtarn, but only in a private and advisory capacity. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333953-thaksin-says-hes-too-old-to-run-for-pm-again-at-75/

Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has declared he is too old to return to Thailand’s top political post. Despite his retirement from active politics, Thaksin hinted he might still guide his daughter, Pheu Thai Party leader Paetongtarn, but only in a private and advisory capacity. Today, Thaksin marked his 75th birthday at his Ban Chan Song La residence surrounded by family, close friends, and prominent Pheu Thai party members. Among those present were Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit, Pheu Thai Secretary-General Sorawong Thienthong, deputy party leader Chusak Sirinil, and Deputy Interior Minister Kriang Kaltinan. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, however, was absent, engaged on official business in Nakhon Phanom province. Thaksin, set to complete his parole by August 22, mentioned that he does not anticipate holding any political office post-parole. He openly shared that he will continue to depend on the government's monthly elderly subsidy of 700 baht, reported Thai PBS The former PM indicated no concern about Prime Minister Srettha potentially losing his position due to a Constitutional Court ruling set for August 14. The court will decide on the legitimacy of Srettha's appointment of Pichit Chuenban as PM Office Minister. Thaksin expressed confidence that the prime minister acted in good faith and would be able to defend his decision adequately. Amid these political uncertainties, the focus of today was clearly personal and celebratory. Yesterday, a pre-birthday event for Thaksin hosted at a hotel in Bangkok’s Phaya Thai district saw only close friends and colleagues come together to honour the political veteran. Despite his proclaimed political retirement, Thaksin’s influence on Thai politics remains significant, particularly through his daughter and the Pheu Thai party, ensuring his legacy endures. Thaksin Says He's Too Old to Run for PM Again at 75 Picture courtesy: Thai PBS -- 2024-07-27 - 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 Saturday 27 July 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1333952-thailand-live-saturday-27-july-2024/

Swedish Couple Gets Sacred Tattoos in Thailand for Luck and Prosperity File photo for reference only A Swedish pair received sacred tattoos on their hands in a traditional ceremony at the Wat Sawang Arom temple in Nakhon Pathom, Thailand, for good fortune and success. They also prayed to Thao Wessuwan, a deity known for granting blessings and revealing lucky numbers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333927-swedish-couple-gets-sacred-tattoos-in-thailand-for-luck-and-prosperity/

The government estimates that over 5 million domestic tourists will travel within Thailand during the long weekend in July 2024, generating more than 18 billion Baht in economic activity. Over 5 Million Domestic Tourists Expected During July Long Holidays in Thailand Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333939-over-5-million-domestic-tourists-expected-during-july-long-holidays-in-thailand/

Central Group, Thai banks initiate tourist QR payments by Sarishti Arora Picture courtesy of iMin Technology from pexels.com The Central Group of companies, which includes Central Retail Corporation, Central Pattana, and Centara Hotels and Resorts, has joined forces with the Bank of Thailand and six leading commercial banks to launch a cross-border QR payment service for tourists. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333897-central-group-thai-banks-initiate-tourist-qr-payments/

The Central Group of companies, which includes Central Retail Corporation, Central Pattana, and Centara Hotels and Resorts, has joined forces with the Bank of Thailand and six leading commercial banks to launch a cross-border QR payment service for tourists. The banks involved in this collaboration are Bangkok Bank, Kasikornbank, Krungthai Bank, Siam Commercial Bank, Bank of Ayudhya, and CIMB Thai Bank. Tourists from Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Japan, Laos, and Hong Kong can now make cashless payments for products and services by using mobile banking apps from partner banks to scan QR codes. This service allows shopping without payment fees at more than 4,000 Central Group locations, including stores, malls, hotels, and restaurants across Thailand. An assistant governor for payment systems policy and the financial consumer protection group at the Bank of Thailand, Daranee Saeju, highlighted the growing importance of technology in the financial services sector. “This partnership for cross-border QR payment is a significant step forward for digital finance.” Daranee explained that the retail payment service integrates Thailand’s instant payment system, PromptPay, with real-time payment services from various foreign countries, especially those with high tourist traffic and strong economic ties with Thailand. Settling bills She noted that the utilisation of cross-border QR payment not only expands the array of choices available to tourists when settling bills but also caters to the demands of the cashless society. Furthermore, it presents an alternative avenue for enterprises and small merchants to receive payments at a reduced expense compared to the acceptance of credit or debit cards.” The Bank of Thailand has recently endorsed the implementation of cross-border QR payments in the eight mentioned countries and territories. Daranee reported that users have given positive feedback on this initiative. In the previous year, there were an estimated 722,000 transactions in total, with a combined usage value of around 596 million baht. The head of financial services at Central Group, Montri Sithiyavanich, added that customers can make payments through Thai QR payments by utilising the mobile banking app of an international service provider. Montri said as customers can scan for payments rather than rely on cash or a credit card, the service offers convenience and safety, in addition to favourable exchange rates. The service is free for both customers and merchants, he added. Montri emphasised that Central Group is committed to implementing digital innovations to enhance the spending experience for all customers, ensuring it is more convenient and secure, reported Bangkok Post. by Sarishti Arora Picture courtesy of iMin Technology from pexels.com Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-26 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Udon Thani: Toddler drowns, grandfather kills family dog in grief by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A two year old boy drowned in a village pond in Udon Thani province, leading to the emotional and controversial killing of his dog by the child’s grandfather. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333893-udon-thani-toddler-drowns-grandfather-kills-family-dog-in-grief/

A two year old boy drowned in a village pond in Udon Thani province, leading to the emotional and controversial killing of his dog by the child’s grandfather. Thanwa was found lifeless in a pond behind a noodle shop in Non Saeng Chan village. He lived with his grandparents while his parents worked in another province. According to the grandfather, the young boy had followed their dog, Nhu Dam, towards the pond before accidentally drowning. The grandfather, overwhelmed with anger and grief, blamed the dog for leading Thanwa to his death and subsequently killed the dog by hitting it on the head with a piece of wood, then disposed of the body in a nearby stream. The family initially did not request an autopsy for Thanwa. However, due to the mysterious circumstances of his death, police considered conducting a post-mortem examination. Ultimately, the grandparents’ lack of suspicion led the police to forego the autopsy. Thanwa’s cremation took place today, and the family mourned the loss privately. Despite the tragic circumstances, the grandfather refused to speak to the press but admitted to the police that he had indeed killed Nhu Dam, though he did not disclose the location of the dog’s body. Later, villagers found Nhu Dam’s body floating in the stream, about 30 metres from the shore, confirming the grandfather’s confession. Thanwa’s grandmother, Tukta, shared that she believed the dog had indeed led Thanwa to the pond, resulting in his accidental fall and drowning. She reiterated that there was no foul play involved in Thanwa’s death and that the child simply followed the dog and fell in. Animal cruelty Watchdog Thailand Foundation (WDT) expressed its condolences for both Thanwa and Nhu Dam, acknowledging their untimely deaths. The foundation, however, emphasised that the grandfather’s actions could not be overlooked. WDT coordinated with the local police to ensure that the grandfather faced charges of animal cruelty. The arrest is expected to occur following Thanwa’s funeral. “We cannot exempt Thanwa’s grandfather from the consequences of brutally killing Nhu Dam out of anger. The dog, beloved by Thanwa, did not deserve such a fate.” They also highlighted the importance of addressing animal cruelty seriously and ensuring that justice is served. Furthermore, Sergeant Ekaphan Layking, head of the Nong Han rescue unit, plans to retrieve Nhu Dam’s body from the stream. The body will be examined for injuries before being buried properly, ensuring some dignity in the dog’s tragic end, reported KhaoSod. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-26 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai man with hoe wreaks havoc in Udon Thani temple by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A Thai man wielding a hoe caused chaos at a temple in Udon Thani, damaging statues and claiming he was being followed. The village headman apprehended him and handed him over to the police for legal action. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333892-thai-man-with-hoe-wreaks-havoc-in-udon-thani-temple/

A Thai man wielding a hoe caused chaos at a temple in Udon Thani, damaging statues and claiming he was being followed. The village headman apprehended him and handed him over to the police for legal action. A report emerged detailing an incident that occurred last night, July 25. Nirut Prommok, the headman of Ban Tat subdistrict, Ban Dung district, Udon Thani province, received a call from monks at Wat Non Thong Lang. They reported that a man had entered the temple with a hoe and had smashed a Dharmachakra statue and other surrounding statues. After causing the damage, the man, who lived nearby, left the temple and returned to his home. Upon arriving at the scene, the headman found the perpetrator, 45 year old Boonmee (surname withheld) digging up a tree in front of his house. When asked why he had destroyed the Dharmachakra statue, Boonmee responded that he had done it to pay for design fees, claiming that someone was constantly demanding payment. He further explained that the Dharmachakra had been disturbing and following him, causing turmoil in his daily life. Boonmee suggested that everyone should contribute 30,000 baht each to cover the costs. Headman Nirut then inspected the temple, where he found extensive damage to the Dharmachakra statue and a statue of Phra Sivali. This was not the first time Boonmee had committed such an act. During his previous attempt, there was insufficient evidence to hold him accountable. However, after the first incident, CCTV cameras were installed, capturing Boonmee’s actions this time. Dharmachakra destruction Boonmee admitted to using a small hammer during the first incident, which resulted in minor damage. This time, he had gone as far as bringing a hoe from his home to ensure the destruction of the Dharmachakra, which he believed was constantly following and knowing everything about him. “The Dharmachakra is always following me and knows everything about my life. It’s terrifying. There are no Dharmachakras in the village, but there is one at my house, and it needs to be destroyed.” After assessing the damage and reviewing the CCTV footage, Headman Nirut, along with his deputy, apprehended Boonmee at his home and brought him back to the scene of the vandalism. Boonmee was then handed over to the Dong Yen Police Station in Ban Dung district, Udon Thani province, where he was formally charged with property damage, reported KhaoSod. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-26 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Cult blamed for deadly killing rampage in Surat Thani by Petch Petpailin Photo via DailyNews Police reported that a strange cult allegedly led a Thai man to go on a killing rampage yesterday, taking the life of his niece and injuring her daughter at a palm plantation in the southern province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333891-cult-blamed-for-deadly-killing-rampage-in-surat-thani/

Police reported that a strange cult allegedly led a Thai man to go on a killing rampage yesterday, taking the life of his niece and injuring her daughter at a palm plantation in the southern province. The violent rampage was reported at approximately 2pm yesterday, July 25, at a palm plantation in the Phrasaeng district of Surat Thani. Officers from Phrasaeng Police Station rushed to the scene along with rescuers and found the body of 25 year old Thai woman, Phikunkaew Parnkhan, outside a house on the plantation. Phikunkaew sustained a fatal stab wound to her neck. Her four year old daughter was found crying near her body. The girl was also injured in the head and was rushed to hospital. The murderer was later identified as the victim’s relative, 57 year old Pramuan Phantu. He was wandering in the plantation with a rifle and knife, prompting police to close off the plantation to prevent him from escaping and attacking more people. Police spent over an hour trying to convince Pramuan to surrender but failed. Fortunately, officers seized an opportunity when Pramuan was off guard to successfully arrest him. According to the police report, Pramuan talked nonsensically and chanted in a language unfamiliar to the police. He was heard glorifying a cult leader and begging the leader not to ban him from speaking. Police suspect that cult beliefs led Pramuan to commit the violent act but further investigation will be conducted to determine the motive behind the incident. Police took Pramuan to the police station and planned to question and examine him later to see if there was any alcohol or drugs in his system. Matichon reported that Pramuan’s father, whose house was near the scene, declined to give an interview to the media, saying he had not been in contact with Pramuan for a long time. ORIGINAL STORY: Thai woman killed, girl injured in rampage in Surat Thani Phrasaeng Police Station officers have surrounded a palm plantation in the southern province of Surat Thani after a Thai man went on a rampage, killing one woman and injuring a young girl. Police were notified about the rampage at approximately 2pm today, July 25, and rushed to the scene along with a rescue team. Officers reported to KhaoSod that the lifeless body of 25 year old woman, Phikunkaew, was found outside a single-storey house on the plantation. A young girl, whose age and name remain undisclosed, was seriously injured. Rescuers provided her with first aid and rushed her to hospital. The girl sustained a head wound and her body was covered in blood. The culprit remains at large in the plantation. He is reportedly carrying a rifle and a knife while wandering around the area. It is suspected that the culprit and the victims were family members. Phikunkaew is reported to be the culprit’s niece while the injured girl is reported to be the deceased’s daughter. This information has not yet been confirmed by the police. Officers are currently surrounding the plantation and nearby area while attempting to persuade the culprit to surrender to the police. In a related report, police arrested two suspects in the murder of a village headman in Surat Thani in March. The victim was shot dead outside his home, sending shockwaves through the local community. Police suspect that a personal conflict between the three led to the fatal shooting. Another Thai man, a casino boss, was murdered in Surat Thani in the same month. Police later arrested the suspected killer, Thanya “Bom” Wichaidit, who was also on the wanted list by Surat Thani Provincial Court. Bom denied the allegation, but police were not convinced by his claim. In February, the murder of an Australian DJ was reported in Surat Thani. His body, with a severe wound to his face, was discovered on the roadside. Following evidence and information from witnesses, police arrested the main suspect, a Moroccan man, who eventually admitted to killing the victim after a heated argument. Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-26 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

SAT-1: Suvarnabhumi Airport lounge launch hits a delay by of Sarishti Arora Picture courtesy of Paweł L. from pexels.com BANGKOK - The newly opened satellite terminal at Suvarnabhumi International Airport, known as SAT-1, has seen limited activity in its lounges and day rooms due to a lack of international flights, according to Miracle Group, an operator of airport lounges and hotels. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333889-sat-1-suvarnabhumi-airport-lounge-launch-hits-a-delay/

BANGKOK - The newly opened satellite terminal at Suvarnabhumi International Airport, known as SAT-1, has seen limited activity in its lounges and day rooms due to a lack of international flights, according to Miracle Group, an operator of airport lounges and hotels. The chairman of Miracle Group, Aswin Ingkakul, noted that large international airlines have not utilised the SAT-1 terminal as expected. Instead, the terminal has mainly been served by low-cost airlines, which operate primarily nighttime flights. Opened in September last year, the new terminal increased the airport’s annual passenger capacity from 45 million to 60 million, as reported by Airports of Thailand (AOT). Miracle Group invested over 150 million baht in facilities at SAT-1, spanning 3,000 square metres, to establish first-class and business-class lounges. They also planned to launch a 35-room transit hotel concurrently with the terminal’s opening, said Aswin. “The lounges, which cater to passengers departing or transiting through international flights, have been underutilised, with as few as three to five visitors on certain days, contributing to a quiet atmosphere during daytime operations. “The restriction that only passengers boarding flights at SAT-1 can access the terminal, coupled with the requirement for those returning to the main terminal to go through departure immigration again, has posed a significant challenge for business operations.” Earlier this month, the company introduced a new day room service named Prime Sleep and Cafe by Miracle, featuring 25 rooms and connecting to gate 8 of Suvarnabhumi Airport, with an investment of 30 million baht. The new accommodation targets passengers on early morning flights and airline crews, offering amenities such as a coffee shop and private bathrooms in each room, with rates starting at 1,400 baht for a two-hour booking. Aswin mentioned that AOT had invited him to discuss further investments in the remaining areas of SAT-1, but he currently has no plans to pursue new projects there. At Don Mueang International Airport, which houses three lounges and two sleep boxes, the domestic terminal services have been moderate, contrasting with the stagnant situation at the international terminal. The relocation of all Thai AirAsia X flights to Don Mueang in October is expected to increase traffic with more international flight customers, Aswin added. Business lounge operations at SAT-1 Terminal continue to face challenges, reported Bangkok Post. Picture of travellers in the immigration section at Satellite 1 at Suvarnabhumi Airport. Picture by Varuth Hirunyatheb by of Sarishti Arora Picture courtesy of Paweł L. from pexels.com Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-26 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe