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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

Polish man arrested for ganja LED grow lights theft in Chiang Mai by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ บิ๊กเกรียน Chon Buri Provincial Immigration Office officers arrested a Polish man for the theft of LED lights from a ganja farm in the northern province of Chiang Mai as he was about to renew his visa. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333885-polish-man-arrested-for-ganja-led-grow-lights-theft-in-chiang-mai/

Chon Buri Provincial Immigration Office officers arrested a Polish man for the theft of LED lights from a ganja farm in the northern province of Chiang Mai as he was about to renew his visa. The owner of a cannabis farm in the Sansai district of Chiang Mai filed a complaint against the farm’s former consultant, 37 year old Polish man Christopher Kazimierz Kasperowicz, for reportedly stealing LED grow lights worth approximately 370,000 baht. The farm owner explained that Kasperowicz was allegedly angry after being removed from his consultant position. He threatened to steal from the farm and allegedly did so. He rented a delivery truck in Bangkok to transfer 22 stolen lights from the Chiang Mai farm to Bangkok. After the theft, Kasperowicz moved to hide in Pattaya. Police closely monitored him until the day he visited the immigration office to renew his visa. During questioning, Kasperowicz denied the accusation and claimed that all of the lights belonged to him as he had also invested in the farm while he was in the position. Despite Kasperowicz’s claim, police charged him with committing theft at night, using a vehicle to facilitate the theft and escape. The punishment is imprisonment from one to five years and a fine from 20,000 to 100,000 baht, according to Section 335 of the Criminal Law. From the pictures shared by several Thai news agencies, Kasperowicz appeared relaxed and unconcerned about the legal consequences. He was seen smiling during questioning and detention at the immigration office. A similar theft committed by a foreigner in Thailand was reported last month in the Chalong district of Phuket. A Thai woman took to social media to search for a foreign man who stole her motorcycle. The identity of the foreign thief was clearly shown on CCTV camera footage, but there has been no update on whether the foreigner was arrested. Another theft occurred in Pattaya in the same month when a Swedish man was arrested outside a hotel after stealing two motorcycles from a taxi driver and a local in the area. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ บิ๊กเกรียน 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

Thailand eases visa rules to attract long-term visitors by Bob Scott Thailand eases visa rules to attract long-term visitors New visa regulations issued by Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs have made it significantly easier to visit and stay in the country long-term. The number of countries eligible for visa-free entry has increased from 57 to 93, now including India and China. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333884-thailand-eases-visa-rules-to-attract-long-term-visitors/

New visa regulations issued by Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs have made it significantly easier to visit and stay in the country long-term. The number of countries eligible for visa-free entry has increased from 57 to 93, now including India and China. Visitors from these countries will receive a 60-day entry stamp, which can be extended for another 30 days at an immigration office. Additionally, certain types of short-term work in Thailand, up to 15 days, are permitted with prior permission from a labour office or at the airport. For travellers from countries not on the visa exemption list, the visa-on-arrival option has expanded to 31 countries, up from the previous 19. However, this visa allows a single-entry stay of only 15 days and costs 2,000 baht. Retirement visa holders will benefit from a reduction in the minimum health insurance coverage requirement, which has decreased from 3 million baht to 400,000 baht. This change aims to make it more accessible for retirees to live in Thailand. Foreign students at Thai colleges and universities, numbering around 40,000, are now allowed to stay for one year after graduation. Previously, they were required to leave the country immediately after completing their courses. These graduates will also be able to take jobs in their field of study, enhancing their career prospects within Thailand. The new Destination Thailand visa has garnered significant attention from those wishing to stay in the country for extended periods. This visa permits stays of up to 180 days, with the potential to extend up to a year in total. However, this visa is subject to specific eligibility criteria and requirements. Visa process Naruchai Ninnad, a senior official in Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs who played a key role in devising the new rules, elaborated on these changes in a recent interview. Ninnad highlighted the efforts made to streamline the visa process and accommodate the needs of various groups of visitors and expatriates. “These new regulations are part of our ongoing efforts to make Thailand more accessible and welcoming to international visitors and long-term residents.” The changes reflect Thailand’s commitment to boosting tourism and making the country an attractive destination for retirees, students, and professionals. The visa reforms are expected to have a positive impact on the country’s economy and international relations. By expanding the list of countries eligible for visa-free entry and visa-on-arrival, Thailand aims to encourage more tourists and business travellers to visit and explore the country. The extension of stay periods and the introduction of the Destination Thailand visa are likely to attract more long-term visitors, contributing to the growth of the local economy. As Thailand continues to adapt its visa policies, these changes signify a step towards a more inclusive and flexible approach to international travel and residency. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is expected to monitor the impact of these regulations and make further adjustments as needed to ensure that Thailand remains a top destination for visitors from around the world, reported Bangkok Post. by Bob Scott Thailand eases visa rules to attract long-term visitors 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

High hopes: Anutin’s green light for cannabis bill in Thailand by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul expressed confidence yesterday that the cannabis control bill will be enacted within the tenure of the current coalition government. Meanwhile, a health advocacy group has pushed for a complete ban on recreational cannabis use. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333881-high-hopes-anutin’s-green-light-for-cannabis-bill-in-thailand/

Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul expressed confidence yesterday that the cannabis control bill will be enacted within the tenure of the current coalition government. Meanwhile, a health advocacy group has pushed for a complete ban on recreational cannabis use. The Bhumjaithai Party submitted an initial version of the bill to the House last September. The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) has since prepared another draft for former Health Minister Cholnan Srikaew to present alongside the Bhumjaithai draft, according to Anutin. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin reversed a prior government decision on Tuesday, July 23, regarding the reclassification of cannabis as a narcotic drug. Cannabis was decriminalised two years ago. Asked about the likelihood of the bill gaining enough support from coalition parties, Anutin expressed strong optimism, citing two main reasons. “I believe in the PM’s commitment and clear order (to push to pass the bill), and now this coalition has up to 314 votes to cast in support of the cannabis control bill, unlike the past coalition, which only had 253 votes to do so (when the bill was voted down.” PM Srettha instructed the MoPH on May 8 to amend regulations to allow cannabis to be reclassified as a narcotic drug, while still permitting its use strictly for medical and health promotion purposes. The health advocacy group, leading a public campaign to reclassify cannabis as a narcotic, argued that the Thai premier’s decision to instead push for new regulations would leave loopholes for recreational use. The group presented scientific evidence linking increased cannabis abuse to rising health and mental problems. In a statement yesterday, the group urged the government to first reclassify cannabis as a narcotic to prevent abuse. They advocated for a subsequent urgent law to permit its use strictly for medical purposes, reported Bangkok Post. Bangkok “We believe this proposal is an ideal solution to all existing conflicts among parties with different opinions on the matter.” The ongoing debate highlights the complexities and differing opinions surrounding cannabis regulation in Thailand. By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Bangkok 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

Bikers Cause Chaos in Pattaya, Police Intervene Screenshot courtesy: Ch7HD Residents in Pattaya, Thailand, have been left sleepless due to a group of foreign bikers causing disturbances with their motorcycles. Early this morning, police closed an alley to arrest the rowdy gang and seize modified rental motorcycles. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333879-bikers-cause-chaos-in-pattaya-police-intervene/

Residents in Pattaya, Thailand, have been left sleepless due to a group of foreign bikers causing disturbances with their motorcycles. Early this morning, police closed an alley to arrest the rowdy gang and seize modified rental motorcycles. At 4:49 a.m. today, more than ten police officers set up a temporary blockade in the alley of Soi VC Pattaya Tai, Moo 10, Nongprue Subdistrict, Banglamung District, Chonburi Province. The objective: to put an end to the late-night chaos caused by a group of foreigners riding motorcycles in circles, honking horns, and revving engines. The unruly group consisted of over 50 bikers, many of whom attempted to flee upon noticing the police presence. Despite some getting away, many were apprehended, revealing that most were riding rented motorcycles, many equipped with illegally modified exhaust pipes designed to amplify noise. The disturbances had been a source of significant frustration for the local community. Among the key actions taken, the police confiscated over ten motorcycles and transported them to the local police station. Owners are now required to present proper documentation and pay fines under the Traffic Act to reclaim their vehicles. This serves as a stern warning against similar future conduct. Interestingly, during the police operation, some young tourists, aged between 18 and 25, tried to bribe the officers with sums ranging from 2,000 to 3,000 baht in a bid to get their motorcycles back. The officers refused, advising the offenders to return to their lodgings and follow the legal process to retrieve their vehicles. This intervention by the police seems to have momentarily restored peace to the area, with local residents hoping that such responsive measures will deter similar disruptive behaviour by visiting tourists in the future. Screenshot courtesy: Ch7HD -- 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

Chalerm Declares Political War Against Thaksin Chalerm Yubamrung. File phoro courtesy: Wikipedia Former Deputy Prime Minister Chalerm Yubamrung has publicly severed ties with Thailand’s Pheu Thai Party, signalling his potential move to join the Palang Pracharath Party. This rupture follows an altercation with Pheu Thai patriarch Thaksin Shinawatra and brewing tensions within the party. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333877-chalerm-declares-political-war-against-thaksin/

Chalerm Yubamrung. File phoro courtesy: Wikipedia Former Deputy Prime Minister Chalerm Yubamrung has publicly severed ties with Thailand’s Pheu Thai Party, signalling his potential move to join the Palang Pracharath Party. This rupture follows an altercation with Pheu Thai patriarch Thaksin Shinawatra and brewing tensions within the party. Addressing reporters from his home on Wednesday, Chalerm lambasted the Pheu Thai leadership for calling him “undisciplined” after he and his son, Wan Yubamrung, visited Kamronwit Toopkrajang, a Pheu Thai rival, during the recent Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO) elections in Pathum Thani. Chalerm asserted their visit was purely familial as Toopkrajang is a close family friend. “I was accused of being undisciplined. If I am so accused, I want to know how many 'disciplined' people will be left in the Pheu Thai party,” declared Chalerm. He then invited Pheu Thai to expel him from their ranks, expressing a desire to clarify the situation publicly. Under Thailand’s 2017 Constitution, an MP can retain their seat if expelled from a political party but not if they resign. Chalerm hinted at his interest in joining the Palang Pracharath Party but insisted he would wait for Pheu Thai’s decision. The veteran politician didn’t mince words about his strained relationship with Thaksin. “I want to debate the person who slept in the hospital for just 2 hours,” Chalerm remarked, possibly alluding to Thaksin's short hospital stays. “I don’t want to even hear his name.” Chalerm and Thaksin’s partnership spans over two decades, dating back to their time in the Thai Rak Thai Party, Pheu Thai’s predecessor. Chalerm’s son, Wan Yubamrung, has already made the switch to Palang Pracharath as of Tuesday. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how this political shakeup will impact Pheu Thai and Thailand’s political landscape. Chalerm’s grandson, Archawin Yubamrung, currently a ministerial adviser, is also under pressure to reconsider his political allegiance. -- 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

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Friday 26 July 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333875-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-friday-26-july-2024/

Thailand's national police chief announced yesterday that Thai and Cambodian police will collaborate to combat call center scams and expect to see solid results within 60 days. His comments followed a meeting with Cambodian authorities to share information. Thailand also requested Cambodia's assistance in tracking down and deporting over 100 Thai nationals involved in call center gangs hiding in Cambodia. The husband of the woman who commissioned a controversial Chinese-language billboard advertising foreign passports for sale in Bangkok was arrested at Don Muang Airport yesterday. He is wanted in China for suspected ID card fraud and is likely to be extradited. Ms. Xu appeared in court yesterday, accused of working without a permit, and is expected to be detained for four months and fined 5,000 baht. She will also be added to an immigration blacklist. Activist and human rights lawyer Arnon Nampa was sentenced to four more years in prison for lese-majeste and violating the Computer Crime Act. This brings his total sentence to 14 years, with 10 more cases pending. 39 year old Arnon, has been detained at Bangkok Remand Prison since his first sentencing on Sept 26 last year. Applications for Bail have been repeatedly denied. A 70-year-old man died after being attacked by three American bully dogs while he was taking a walk through his village close to khon kaen yesterday. The dogs were owned by a couple living close by,, the man suffered severe bites and died later in hospital. The dog owner said her dogs had never attacked people before and she had raised them within the compound of her house. Around the region. North Korean hackers have conducted a global cyber espionage campaign in efforts to steal classified military secrets, this according to a statement by the United States, Britain and South Korea. The hackers, are believed to be part of North Korea's intelligence Unit thich has targeted or breached computer systems at defence or engineering firms, including manufacturers of tanks, submarines, naval vessels, fighter aircraft, and missile and radar systems. Todays’ WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: Cloudy with Thundershowers 31C degrees celsius Bangkok: Cloudy with heavy Thundershowers 31 Pattaya: Cloudy with Thundershowers 31 Phuket and the south: Cloudy with Thundershowers 31 Hua Hin: Cloudy with isolated light showers 31 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 2024-07-26 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Cabinet Approves New Anti-Corruption Bill Deputy Government Spokesperson Kanika Aunjit The government's Cabinet has greenlit a new Anti-Corruption Bill aimed at ramping up efforts to combat corruption. This recent development marks a significant step in the ongoing endeavour to create a more transparent and accountable public system. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333873-thai-cabinet-approves-new-anti-corruption-bill/

Deputy Government Spokesperson Kanika Aunjit The government's Cabinet has greenlit a new Anti-Corruption Bill aimed at ramping up efforts to combat corruption. This recent development marks a significant step in the ongoing endeavour to create a more transparent and accountable public system. The draft, meticulously reviewed by the Office of the Council of State, was introduced by the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC). It features stricter provisions designed to address and curb corruption more effectively. Deputy Government Spokesperson, Kanika Aunjit, highlighted that the proposed law includes a slew of rigorous measures aimed at preventing and eliminating corruption. One notable aspect of the draft is its emphasis on public engagement. It actively encourages public participation in anti-corruption efforts, empowering citizens to report misconduct and provide information. Importantly, it also pledges state protection for whistleblowers, assuring them safety from retaliation. Moreover, the draft establishes robust mechanisms to protect and assist individuals who come forward with information or testimonies about corrupt activities. This is intended to foster a safer environment for whistleblowers, ensuring they are not only heard but also safeguarded. The proposed bill has been subjected to extensive public consultation and analysis, ensuring it aligns with constitutional provisions and public interest. The NACC has also announced plans to develop supplementary legislation to support the main law. This secondary legislation aims to ensure procedural transparency and efficiency, creating a more comprehensive framework to tackle corruption. Today's approval from the Cabinet reflects the government's commitment to creating a corruption-free environment, focusing on transparency and public trust. Should this draft become law, it marks a heightened vigilance against corruption and promises stricter oversight and greater public involvement in the fight against it. -- 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

Ex-Police Officer Thwarted in Phatthalung Gold Shop Heist Gold shop heist in Phatthalung. Picture courtesy: Thai CH8 A former police officer, dismissed from service, attempted to rob a gold shop in Phatthalung’s central market but was foiled by the sharp-eyed shop owner who noticed the gun was a fake and managed to subdue the suspect. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333871-ex-police-officer-thwarted-in-phatthalung-gold-shop-heist/

A former police officer, dismissed from service, attempted to rob a gold shop in Phatthalung’s central market but was foiled by the sharp-eyed shop owner who noticed the gun was a fake and managed to subdue the suspect. At around 11:30 am, a concerned citizen reported a robbery at Yaowarat Gold Shop, located in the fresh market within Phatthalung Municipality. Phatthalung City Police swiftly responded, arriving at the scene to detain the suspect, identified as 32-year-old Jem, a former officer dismissed from service in the three southern border provinces. CCTV footage captured Jem entering the shop, donning a helmet and brandishing a gun. Using a hammer, he smashed the glass display case containing gold items, causing significant damage. However, the shop owner realised the gun was not real and tackled Jem, preventing him from escaping. "I noticed the gun was fake, so I took my chance and tackled him," the shop owner said. Currently, the police are interrogating Jem, who has provided limited information. Prior to the robbery attempt, Jem was seen riding a motorcycle around the vicinity of the gold shop. He later parked the motorcycle at a nearby temple and was then driven to the gold shop by an accomplice, where he attempted the heist. Further updates on the investigation will be provided as the situation unfolds, according to KhaoSod. In a related incident, police apprehended a Thai man at an apartment in Samut Sakhon for the theft of a gold necklace valued at nearly 130,000 baht, following a four-hour manhunt. The suspect committed the crime at a som tam restaurant in Nakhon Pathom on July 12. He pretended to order food from the victim, then used a gun to threaten her into handing over her gold necklace. Both cases highlight the increasing incidences of gold theft and the vigilance needed by both shop owners and the police in keeping communities safe. Gold shop in Phatthalung. Picture courtesy: Thai CH8 -- 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

Hong Kong policeman’s fatal fall from baht bus sparks safety outcry by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Pattaya Tourist Police are offering comprehensive support to the widow of a Hong Kong policeman who tragically lost his life after falling off a baht bus on Pattaya Second Road on July 22. The shocking incident has catapulted road safety in Pattaya into the national spotlight. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333870-hong-kong-policeman’s-fatal-fall-from-baht-bus-sparks-safety-outcry/ Full story:

Pattaya Tourist Police are offering comprehensive support to the widow of a Hong Kong policeman who tragically lost his life after falling off a baht bus on Pattaya Second Road on July 22. The shocking incident has catapulted road safety in Pattaya into the national spotlight. The grieving widow is receiving assistance from police to navigate the investigation and manage claims for damages. The baht bus in question is insured under the Motor Vehicle Accident Victim Protection Act and additional voluntary insurance, with death cases covered up to 500,000 baht per policy. The deceased, Chi Fai Lam, will be repatriated to Hong Kong for funeral rites, a process being coordinated by the Pattaya Tourist Police and the Chinese Embassy. Meanwhile, the baht bus driver has been detained and questioned by investigators from the Pattaya City Police Station. The driver faces charges of reckless driving causing death and failing to stop to provide assistance or identify oneself to the police after causing damage. This incident has prompted swift action from local police. The Pattaya Tourist Police, in collaboration with the Pattaya City Police Station, is set to meet with baht bus operators to reinforce safety protocols and prevent future tragedies, reported Pattaya Mail. ORIGINAL STORY: Chinese man dies after falling off baht bus in Pattaya A Thai baht bus driver in Pattaya denied any knowledge of an accident in which a Chinese man fell from his vehicle and later died. Locals in Pattaya condemned the baht bus driver, later identified as Thongchai Thonglueng, for his alleged cruel behaviour after he left the 48 year old Chinese man, Chi Fai Lam, lying in a pool of blood on Pattaya Sai 2 Road on the morning of July 22. Witnesses rushed the Chinese national to hospital but he succumbed to his injuries. Security camera footage showed the Chinese man falling from the dark blue baht bus but the driver sped away without checking on him. The vehicle’s registration plate was identified as 10-6324, and the driver was later identified to be Thongchai. Thongchai was summoned to Mueang Pattaya Police Station for questioning that afternoon. He insisted that he was unaware his passenger fell from his vehicle. Thongchai explained that he picked up seven to eight passengers from the Dolphin Roundabout and dropped them off at Pattaya Walking Street. He checked the passengers in his rear-view mirror and saw that no one remained. He claimed he did not know when the Chinese man boarded his vehicle or when he fell off. A witness, 56 year old motorcycle rider Sriprai, told Matichon that many people shouted at the baht bus, asking the driver to stop but he ignored them and sped away. Police did not reveal the next steps in their investigation and did not clarify what legal action would be taken against Thongchai. RELATED TOPIC Chinese Tourist Dies After Falling From Songthaew In Pattaya https://aseannow.com/topic/1333594-chinese-tourist-dies-after-falling-from-songthaew-in-pattaya/ by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail 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

New runway at Suvarnabhumi Airport sparks emergency drill by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Suvarnabhumi International Airport conducted a high-stakes emergency exercise under the codename SENOP-24 on Tuesday, July 23. This drill, aimed at preparing for the grand opening of the airport’s third runway set for mid-September, was designed to ensure every team is battle-ready for any potential crisis. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333869-new-runway-at-suvarnabhumi-airport-sparks-emergency-drill/

Suvarnabhumi International Airport conducted a high-stakes emergency exercise under the codename SENOP-24 on Tuesday, July 23. This drill, aimed at preparing for the grand opening of the airport’s third runway set for mid-September, was designed to ensure every team is battle-ready for any potential crisis. Kittipong Kittikachorn, the Director of Suvarnabhumi Airport and a key figure in Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited (AOT), oversaw the event. He was flanked by an army of collaborators from various agencies. The exercise aimed to put the airport’s fire and rescue operations through their paces, making sure they could handle any runway mishap with lightning speed and precision, said Kittipong. “Our third runway will boost our capacity from 68 flights per hour to an impressive 94. “The airport is revving up for this milestone, with plans to gradually ramp up flight operations. But first, they must ensure every contingency is covered, and that’s where these real-world emergency drills come into play.” The exercise simulated a terrifying aircraft accident on the new runway, pushing all involved to their limits. Communication lines buzzed, coordination was tested, and response strategies were scrutinised by sharp-eyed observers. Among the critical supporters were AOT executives, Thai Airways, Aeronautical Radio of Thailand, and medical teams from Samitivej Srinakarin Hospital. Additionally, representatives from the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand and AOT’s Aviation Standards and Safety Department were on hand to assess every move, reported Pattaya Mail. In related news, Phuket’s Wichit Municipality conducted a comprehensive tsunami evacuation drill and rescue exercise last Thursday, July 18, aimed at bolstering disaster preparedness in Phuket. Wichit Mayor Kreetha Chotiwichpipat and Mueang Phuket District Chief Worasit Putjeeb led the drill, which involved multiple agencies in a Table Top Exercise (TTX). by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail 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

Blackchin Tilapia Invasion Threatens Southeast Asia's Ecosystems Blackchin Tilapia. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Concerns are mounting within the Thai government as the blackchin tilapia, an invasive predator fish, could spread from Thailand to neighbouring countries, posing an ecological crisis. MPs warned that the tilapia invasion might soon become a transnational issue affecting Cambodia and Malaysia. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333868-blackchin-tilapia-invasion-threatens-southeast-asias-ecosystems/

Blackchin Tilapia. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Concerns are mounting within the Thai government as the blackchin tilapia, an invasive predator fish, could spread from Thailand to neighbouring countries, posing an ecological crisis. MPs warned that the tilapia invasion might soon become a transnational issue affecting Cambodia and Malaysia. In a recent House floor debate, Move Forward MP Natcha Boonchai-insawat highlighted the rapid and destructive spread of blackchin tilapia in coastal and mangrove waters across 17 Thai provinces. Not native to the region, this "alien species" preys on local fish, shrimps, and other small aquatic animals, disrupting ecosystems and impacting local fisheries. The invasive species, imported from Ghana in 2010 for an experimental breeding project by Charoen Pokphand Foods (CPF), has quickly infiltrated natural waters. Although CPF claimed to have destroyed the original batch, the blackchin tilapia has proliferated, especially in the eastern border province of Trat and southern province of Songkhla. These areas are proximate to Cambodia and Malaysia, stirring fears of a regional ecological crisis. MPs underscored the urgency of immediate government action to control the invasive species. Suggestions included large-scale hunts for the fish using various nets, releasing predator fish like sea bass to control the tilapia population, promoting nationwide consumption of the tilapia, banning further breeding, and compensating affected aquatic farmers. Deputy Agriculture & Cooperatives Minister Attakorn Sirilatthayakorn assured that measures would be swiftly implemented. The Fisheries Department has been allocated 231 million baht to buy captured blackchin tilapia at 15 baht per kilo, incentivising local hunts. Additionally, efforts to sterilise the fish to halt their reproduction are underway. This issue underscores the broader challenge of managing invasive species and preserving regional ecological balance. Immediate and coordinated efforts are crucial to prevent further environmental and economic damage across Southeast Asia. -- 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

Cruise Liner From Singapore Arrives in Phuket with 3,700 Tourists By Goongnang Suksawat Phuket- A cruise liner from Singapore with 3,700 tourists arrived at the Phuket Deep Sea Port in Wichit. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333867-cruise-liner-from-singapore-arrives-in-phuket-with-3700-tourists/