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Photo Courtesy of Bangkok Post Tourism operators in Chiang Mai are urging the new government to address the persistent haze issue to attract the return of long-stay senior tourists, whose absence has dealt a significant blow to the province’s economy. The leader of the Move Forward Party, Pita Limjaroenrat, visited Chiang Mai last week and discussed environmental and tourism policies with local industry representatives. According to Tanit Choomsang, the vice-president of the Tourism Council of Chiang Mai and president of the Chiang Mai Restaurant and Bistro Association, the heavy PM2.5 smog earlier this year considerably impacted tourism confidence until the Songkran festival in April, dissuading visitors from booking trips in advance. “Instead of staying for a whole year, a number of senior tourists returned to their home country to escape the smog season in Chiang Mai,” said Tanit. “Thailand has lost opportunities because of this ongoing problem.” Tanit revealed that some Scandinavian long-stay retirees have vowed not to visit Chiang Mai any longer, leaving only short-stay tour groups. Japanese retirees, on the other hand, chose to remain during the smog season and adapted their lifestyles accordingly. by Alex Morgan Top Photo Courtesy of Bangkok Post Full story: https://thethaiger.com/hot-news/economy/chiang-mai-haze-issue-risks-long-stay-senior-tourist-numbers-economy-suffers -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-06-19 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

Thailand’s mounting household debt is raising concerns, as it continues to hinder consumer spending, affecting various industries and impeding economic growth. The latest data from the National Economic and Social Development Council shows debt in the nation reached 15.1 trillion baht in the fourth quarter of 2022, a 3.5% increase year on year, and accounting for 86.9% of GDP. Debt levels remain alarmingly high, as the major factors behind rising household debt are real estate purchases and personal loans. Despite a slow rate of decline, it is anticipated to take a considerable time for household debt to reach the Bank of Thailand’s target level of 80% of GDP. The central bank warned that debt levels surpassing 80% of GDP pose a risk to the country’s financial stability and long-term economic growth. It is predicted that without implementing debt restructuring measures, household debt is expected to tally 84% of GDP by 2027. According to Kasikorn Research Center (K-Research), Thailand’s household debt-to-GDP ratio is expected to decline to between 85.5 to 86% in 2023, due to GDP expansion and retail loan repayments. This includes repayments on credit cards and mortgages during seasonal periods. However, the ratio remains high at 86.9% as GDP growth aligns with the nation’s economic recovery. Over the long term, K-Research expects retail loans in the Thai banking system to grow at a slowed pace of 3 to 3.5% compared to the previous average of 6.0% over the past five years. by Alex Morgan Photo Courtesy of Freepik Full story: https://thethaiger.com/hot-news/economy/thai-household-debt-soars-to-86-9-of-gdp-dampening-consumer-spending -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-06-19 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

Thai police have seized assets worth over 1,000 million baht (US$28,800,000) from a suspect known as “Boy” in connection to an alleged 140 million baht (US$4,036,000) embezzlement case. Speaking yesterday, police deputy commander Surachet Hakpal detailed that nine out of ten men facing accusations had reported to authorities, including Chonburi’s provincial governor. The investigation continues, with financial examinations expected to conclude this week. Surachet Hakpal stated that there was misconduct in the initial handling of the arrests, as the accused individuals were not taken to a police station in the local area; instead, they were taken straight to their superiors’ offices. Furthermore, some arrest warrants were withdrawn after receiving payments, asserting that the information provided by an informant was incorrect. Surachet also mentioned they are preparing to further expand the investigation and apprehend more individuals involved in this matter. The assets discovered, worth an initial estimate of 200-300 million baht (US$5,765,000-8,648,000), include residential properties, land, boats, and motor vehicles. The authorities, in coordination with the government’s financial secretary, are now focused on completing the asset seizure process worth not less than 1,000 million baht in total. by Nattapong Westwood TOP PHOTO: Unsplash/Andre Blanco Full story: https://thethaiger.com/news/national/thai-police-seize-1000-million-baht-assets-in-embezzlement-case-linked-to-boy -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-06-19 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

In a devastating incident on June 18th, Sergeant Utane Prompram, an investigating officer from Suvarnabhumi Airport Police Station, received a report of a fatal car accident involving a pickup truck colliding with the rear of a bus. The collision took place on Suvarnabhumi Road, near the Terminal Bus Station, at the intersection of Bus Terminal Road, Nong Pru Subdistrict, Bang Phli District, Samut Prakan Province, reported Siam Rath. Upon receiving the notification, authorities coordinated with the rescue foundation and rushed to the scene with cutting equipment to investigate the incident. Picture: Siam Rath The front compartment was compressed, and rescue personnel used hydraulic cutting tools to open the doors and release the victim's body from the wreckage. Picture: Siam Rath The front of the truck collided with the bus's rear bumper, causing the bus to skid and cross the intersection. Top Picture: Siam Rath -- © Copyright ASEAN NOW 2023-06-19 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information. Get your business in front of millions of customers who read ASEAN NOW with an interest in Thailand every month - email [email protected] for more information

Pattaya — An intoxicated Thai man tragically fell to his death by accident while vomiting over his balcony near Pattaya. The deceased body of 26-year-old Mr. Anek Siangsai was found on the ground of the 19th building of the Laem Chabang Housing Project, situated in Banglamung district, Chonburi province, at 3:20 AM today, June 18th. Sawang Boriboon rescuers responding to the incident found the man in a pool of blood. He was wearing a blue shirt and shorts. The authorities covered Anek’s body with a sheet before transporting him to a nearby hospital. Mr. Sitthinon Sembang, 27, a witness, revealed to The Pattaya News that the deceased had been drinking since the afternoon and had become heavily intoxicated. He and others accompanied him back to his room, where they heard the sound of the deceased leaning over his balcony on the 5th floor to puke shortly followed by a loud crashing noise. By Tanakorn Panyadee Full story: https://thepattayanews.com/2023/06/18/intoxicated-man-in-pattaya-area-falls-off-balcony-and-dies-by-accident/ -- © Copyright The Pattaya News 2023-06-19 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

Packed with essential nutrients, milk is an integral part of children’s diets and supports their growth. It contains calcium, which is great for the teeth and the bones, and has other health benefits too, among them boosting the immune system, strengthening heart health, and improving the skin, according to experts. Yet despite these advantages, a study shows milk consumption is low among young Thais, raising concerns over their short stature. Thai children tend to be on the short side because they drink too little milk, says Dr Suwannachai Wattanayingcharoenchai, director general of the Department of Health (DoH). The percentage of “short” Thai teenagers has increased from 9.5% to 10.4% over the past years. And that short stature can be attributed to inadequate milk intake. Dr Suwannachai was speaking at a special event hosted at the DoH’s office and chaired by him to mark World Milk Day 2023. The aim was to raise awareness about the importance of drinking milk. Full story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/thai-children-losing-out-on-height-due-to-too-little-milk/ -- © Copyright Thai PBS 2023-06-19 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

Pattaya — Around three go-go bar guards allegedly attacked a Russian tourist, who reportedly refused to pay for the drinks he had ordered, on Walking Street at 3:30 AM this morning, June 18th. The attacked tourist, Mr. Oleg Rusovsiannikov, 33, of Russian nationality, suffered swelling and bruises on his face and profuse bleeding. He was aided by Pattaya Police after he was allegedly attacked by 2-3 guards of an unidentified go-go bar on Pattaya Walking Street at 3:30 AM today. Several people and friends of Oleg were surrounding him when the police arrived. He was taken to the Pattaya Police Station to provide a formal testimony with a Russian translator. By Tanakorn Panyadee Full story: https://thepattayanews.com/2023/06/18/go-go-bar-guards-on-pattaya-walking-street-allegedly-attack-russian-man-who-refused-to-pay-his-bill/ -- © Copyright The Pattaya News 2023-06-19 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information. Picture: Daily News Picture: Daily News

“He said there’s been a noticeable decline in tourist numbers, as evidenced by hotel reservation rates of only 40-50% from both domestic and foreign visitors.” The Phuket Tourist Association is putting together proposals to the new government (whoever that may be), aiming to revitalise the island’s tourism economy and restore the impressive 400 billion baht in income it reached back in pre-Covid 2019. In a Bangkok Post article, PTA president Thaneth Tantipiriyakij, emphasised the importance of tourism as one of the island’s key economic drivers, alongside exports. “The new government should prioritise tourism policies across all sectors by collaborating with organisations such as the Tourism Authority of Thailand, the Culture Ministry, and the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau.” By Peter Roche Top picture: A quiet Kata Beach on June 16 at 1pm. Full story: https://phuket-go.com/phuket-news/phuket-news/phuket-struggles-to-attract-tourists-in-2023-low-season/ -- © Copyright Phuket GO 2023-06-17 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

Surabot Leekpai, the celebrity son of a man dubbed the “Mr Clean” of Thai politics, has been accused of swindling crypto investors out of millions. Investors in the Crypto Ronin NFT Project have filed a joint complaint with police against Surabot, claiming damages totaling 15 million baht. Surabot has declined to comment when quizzed about the allegations, saying only that his lawyer is handling the issue. What happened? Widely known as “Pleum”, Surabot launched the “play-to-earn” crypto project last year. His credibility earned through family connections attracted many to invest even before the project was fully developed. When the game failed to launch as scheduled in the second quarter of 2022, investors agreed to wait a bit longer. Suspicions were only aroused after the project owner deleted their account on the Line messaging platform and migrated to Discord. The final straw came in recent months when Bitkub officially removed Crypto Ronin NFT from its list of registered projects and Surabot stopped responding to their queries. By Thai PBS World’s Political Desk Full story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/celebrity-son-of-thailands-mr-clean-engulfed-in-crypto-scandal/ -- © Copyright Thai PBS 2023-06-17 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

Live Nation Tero is thrilled to announce Britain’s foremost comedian JOHN CLEESE to Bangkok! He is set to perform in Bangkok on 7 July at KBank Siam Pic Ganesha. Cleese is kicking off his Asia tour, starting in Taipei, followed by Bangkok, Hong Kong, and Singapore. John Cleese is both a versatile comedic actor and a leading business motivator. Through the legendary Monty Python Troupe, classic sitcom “Fawlty Towers,” and acclaimed film “A Fish Called Wanda,” Cleese created a unique comedic style that has inspired countless writers and comedians. John Cleese’s influence is also felt in the corporate world as the founder of Video Arts, the world’s largest provider of business training programs. Established in 1972, Video Arts has gained an international reputation as the premier source of business know–how. Cleese attributes his success at making hit training programs to his fascination with psychology and his love for teaching and making people laugh. He believes that “humour in training increases retention and decreases anxiety. When the training point is surrounded by humour, it can be readily digested, remembered, and applied. by Thaiger Full story: https://thethaiger.com/hot-news/events/john-cleese-announces-new-show-in-bangkok-this-july-with-new-tickets-price-added -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-06-17 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

On June 16th, the police of Sa Kaeo province in Thailand detained a Japanese man for overstaying his visa by 547 days. According to reports, Pol. Col. Rung Thongmon, chief of Sa Kaeo Provincial Police, led the arrest operation, reported 77kaoded. The arrested man, 60-year-old Mr. Noboru Kobayashi, a Japanese national, was apprehended in the vicinity of Muang Kaeo market, Sa Kaeo subdistrict, Muang Sa Kaeo district, Sa Kaeo province. Picture: 77kaoded Prior to the arrest, a tip-off had led the police to an unidentified foreigner. An ensuing investigation found that the accused had entered Thailand on November 17th, 2021, on a non-immigrant visa type B, valid until December 16th, 2021. He had later sought and received an extension until January 30th, 2022. However, it was found that Mr. Kobayashi had overstayed in the Kingdom for 547 days beyond the permitted duration. He is charged with entering and staying in the kingdom after the expiration of his visa, in violation of Section 81 of the Thai Immigration Act of 1979. Following the arrest, the suspect was handed over to the inquiry officer of Muang Sa Kaeo police station for legal proceedings. Top Picture: 77kaoded -- © Copyright ASEAN NOW 2023-06-17 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information. Get your business in front of millions of customers who read ASEAN NOW with an interest in Thailand every month - email [email protected] for more information

A 43 year old man from Buriram province faces charges for the alleged rape of a child resulting in her pregnancy. The Thai man had reportedly raped his niece since the age of eight leading to her pregnancy at the age of 12. The girl’s mother sought help from authorities, exposing the abuse that had gone unnoticed over the years. Residents in the Naang Rong district of Buriram province reported the case of a man abusing his niece and threatening to kill her if she made the news public. Officers from Naang Rong Police Station arrested the alleged rapist, Thanakrit, also known as Noi, the uncle of the girl, who is a sixth-grade student. He is being investigated and charged with child molestation, rape of a minor, and physical assault. The girl’s mother, A (pseudonym), 37 years old, alerted the police about her brother Noi sexually abusing her daughter Yui (pseudonym) since she was in the second grade, aged just eight. The continuous abuse eventually led to a two-month pregnancy. by Samantha Rose TOP PHOTO: Sanook Full story: https://thethaiger.com/news/national/buriram-man-charged-with-raping-niece-since-age-8-resulting-in-pregnancy-at-12 -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-06-17 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

Phuket – The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) raided an accounting and law company in Chalong for allegedly being an illegal network nominee for foreigners with a hundred million baht of total damages. The raid on Thursday afternoon (June 15th) at the company was led by Major Suriya Singhakamon, the DSI director general. Staffers were working as normal while servicing foreign customers who wanted to set up companies. They were all asked to stop working while DSI officers were collecting evidence. Major Suriya told the Phuket Express “The owner of this company is a Thai woman who has a British husband. The raid followed us having found that the company is allegedly being serviced by foreigners to set up companies as nominees. This accounting company has about 40 staffers and the company has been operating for more than 15 years.” “There are about 100 companies which have been registered by foreigners with this company. Of those, 44 companies are involved with land which have cost about 100 million baht of damages. Most of their customers are Russians. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: https://thephuketexpress.com/2023/06/15/dsi-raids-accounting-and-law-firm-in-phuket-allegedly-being-illegal-nominee-for-foreigners/ -- © Copyright The Phuket Express 2023-06-16 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

BANGKOK (NNT) - Chiang Mai province is preparing to host its inaugural halal food festival next month, with the aim of enticing Muslim tourists from the Middle East. The festival, themed "Unseen Chiang Mai," will feature halal delicacies from all four regions of the country. The halal food festival will also serve as a precursor to Chiang Mai’s international food festival, scheduled for July and August. These months were strategically chosen to align with the period when a significant number of Middle East tourists visit Chiang Mai. The city hopes to appeal to these high-spending visitors known for their long stays in Thailand. Chiang Mai Governor Nirat Pongsitthavorn expressed his confidence that the halal food festival will become an annual event on Chiang Mai’s tourism calendar. Meanwhile, Supamitr Kijjapipat, President of the Chiang Mai Tourism Business Association, anticipates that the festival, which will feature over 20 halal-certified restaurants, will stimulate the local economy and attract both Thai and foreign tourists. In addition to the food festival, Chiang Mai is actively promoting various destinations, including Chiang Dao, Mae On, Wiang Haeng, Mae Cham, and Mae Kwang, under the "Unseen Chiang Mai" theme from July to September. The governor emphasized that promotional activities will showcase the region’s lush natural surroundings during the wet season, as well as its diverse local culture, traditions, and ethnic groups. by Krajangwit Johjit Source: https://thainews.prd.go.th/en/news/detail/TCATG230615111639083 -- © Copyright NNT 2023-06-15 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

Thirty Thai women in the popular dating game show Take Me Out Thailand gave a blackout to an arrogant 22 year old American man after he showed his male chauvinistic side. He insisted at the end of the show that he told the truth, thankfully the Thai contestants would not accept a man who appeared to have stepped out of a 1950s time machine. The episode sparked a heated discussion among Thai netizens. In the Take Me Out Thailand game show, which was aired on June 10, the single American man, who introduced himself as Tangmo in Thai, joined the show hoping to win the hearts of 30 Thai women. Throughout the episode, Tangmo expressed his views on married life, leaving many women on the show and netizens alike in disagreement. So, the girls gave him a blackout. Tangmo said in the show in Thai… “I consider myself a conservative person. For me, a man must be the breadwinner, working for the family. A man is a leader while a woman is a follower and supporter. I do not mean to imply that a man is superior to a woman but each has to do their duties.” Continuing his discourse, the American shared his perspective on the concept of loyalty. He stated… “Some women who claim to desire multiple husbands have likely been influenced by social media. However, their true instincts don’t align with such desires. A good woman will desire only one man. The value of a woman is her purity. It is different for a man. Man’s instinct needs more than one woman. “The meaning of loyalty is different from a woman. A man must take care of his partner and uphold his promises. If a man can take care of more than one woman, it is fine. All men want more than one woman. It depends on whether they will tell the truth to the women or not. For me, I want to have many children. If that woman could not give me, so she will have more friends at home.” by Petch Petpailin Photo via Take Me Out Thailand TV Thunder Official Full story: https://thethaiger.com/news/national/take-me-out-thailand-american-man-gets-blackout-for-his-male-chauvinistic-attitude -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-06-15 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

Members of civic groups monitoring the May 14th general election gathered at the Office of the Election Commission (EC) on Wednesday to demand a speedy announcement of the poll results. A letter, addressed to the EC chairman, demands that they announce the poll results as quickly as possible and explain the delay. Yingcheep Atchanont of iLaw, one of the demonstrators, said that it has been a month since the election on May 14th and the recounting of votes at over 40 polling stations was completed on June 11th, therefore, there is no justification for the EC’s continued procrastination. Although the EC has 60 days after the election to announce results, Yingcheep said that it is unnecessary for them to take such a long time, noting that, in the previous general elections, the EC took only 16 days to announce the 2005 election results, 29 days in 2007, 24 days in 2011 and 45 days in 2019. The longer the delay, he claimed, the more the people will become suspicious and lose faith in the EC. Full story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/pressure-mounts-on-ec-to-announce-may-14th-election-results/ -- © Copyright Thai PBS 2023-06-15 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

Officials have announced the arrest of a gang who had been illegally cutting and stealing stone from Sam Roi Yot National Park. The illegal activity took place near the Tham Kaew Cave, an area of cultural and ecological significance within the national park, officials said. The crackdown on the gang came after officials received a report that newly opened stone surfaces had been discovered, indicating stone-cutting activities in the mountains near Tham Kaew Cave. At 4am on Sunday morning (June 11), park officers hiked for three hours to begin a surveillance operation close to the cave. By Online Reporter Full story: https://www.huahintoday.com/local-news/gang-arrested-for-stealing-sacred-stone-from-sam-roi-yot-national-park/ -- © Copyright Hua Hin Today 2023-06-12 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

China expressed its readiness to enhance military cooperation with Thailand in a bid to maintain stability in the region. The two nations have planned a series of joint military exercises for the upcoming year. During a meeting in Beijing, China’s Defence Minister Li Shangfu assured Narongpan Jitkaewtae, the Royal Thai Army’s commander-in-chief, of China’s commitment to work closely with Thailand. The South China Morning Post reported that Li stated… “China stands ready to work with Thailand to implement the important consensus reached by the leaders of both countries … and push for more fruitful cooperation between the two militaries, especially between the two armies.” by Mitch Connor Top Photo courtesy of Istock Full story: https://thethaiger.com/news/national/china-and-thailand-plan-joint-military-drills-to-maintain-regional-stability -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-06-12 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

AN ONGOING crackdown by Immigration Police in Surat Thani province has so far netted six foreigners for overstaying their visa and two others for illegal entry, Naewna newspaper said this evening (June 11). In the province-wide sweep taking place during June 7-21 another two persons were also arrested for not giving notification of the foreigners staying in their property within 24 hours of their arrival. Among the six arrested for overstaying are an Indian national who overstayed for 300 days; two Americans; a Myanmar national; a German; a Russian who overstayed six days but is also facing charges of cryptocurrency fraud amounting to US$72,700 (around 2.5 million baht) and not paying the bills for accommodation and food totalling 66,255 baht. by TNR Staff Full story: https://thainewsroom.com/2023/06/11/foreigners-rounded-up-in-surat-thani-crackdown/ -- © Copyright THAI NEWSROOM 2023-06-12 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

Picture: Siam Rath A Facebook page reported the distressing story of a mother whose 5-year-old son was bitten by a dog from a nearby store. The incident occurred on May 14 when the family's son was playing in front of their house and had a wooden stick in his hand. The boy went inside the house at one point, and during that moment, his mother didn't notice when he went back outside. However, she heard his screams and rushed out, only to witness her son being attacked by a dog. Picture: Siam Rath The dog had bitten his face and head, and a nearby person immediately intervened and picked up the child. The boy's older brother also attempted to help and got bitten on his leg. After the incident, the child was taken to the hospital, where it was discovered that his ear was partially severed and required stitching, in addition to facial and head injuries, reported Siam Rath. Later, the mother notified the dog's owner, who happened to be a relative, and the owner promised to transfer 10,000 baht as travel expenses. The money was transferred on May 17, after the child was discharged from the hospital. However, when they discussed the owner's responsibility for medical expenses, the owner claimed that he had already paid the compensation and challenged them to involve the police. Consequently, the mother and her older son reported the incident to the police and filed a daily record. Picture: Siam Rath There was a back-and-forth argument about the medical expenses, as the older brother insisted on demanding an additional 200,000 baht in damages. The news reporter then visited the house located in Sam Khok District, Pathum Thani Province. The incident took place in a single-family house that also served as a beauty salon. Ms. Sathita (surname withheld), 23 years old, and her 5-year-old sister Tiew, along with Mr. Den-narong (surname withheld), 25 years old, a relative, were inside the house when the incident occurred. They had a dog named Big, which freely roamed around the front of the house. Ms. Sathita, the injured child's mother, explained that the incident occurred on May 14, 2023. The dog's owner, who is also a relative and lives across the street, came to her beauty salon for a service and brought his dog named Leo along. The dog was in front of the house, and her child, being curious, approached it with a plastic bag in hand, which led to the dog biting him. The older brother, who was inside the house, heard his younger brother's cries and rushed out to help before getting bitten on the leg. The child was then quickly taken to Pathum Thani Hospital, where he received treatment for injuries to his left ear and left arm. After one night of treatment, the doctor allowed him to go home. As for the older brother, his right leg was bitten, and in the beginning, they mutually agreed that the owner would cover travel expenses and wound cleaning. Picture: Siam Rath They reached a consensus that if the child's condition worsened or did not improve, they would discuss compensation later. The dog's owner mentioned that if the child's ear required surgery, he would cover the expenses according to the bill. This was not the first time the dog had bitten someone. It had happened three times, but on the previous two occasions, it occurred at the store, which was the owner's aunt's house. Since her son instigated those incidents, Ms. Sathita did not demand compensation. However, this time, the incident happened in their own house. She decided to report it to seek compensation because her child almost lost his organs. The physical wounds might heal, but the mental trauma remained. She wanted her child, who was her aunt's grandchild, to receive fair treatment. She didn't know if her aunt would agree to talk to her about it, so she wished the media could serve as a mediator to negotiate if her aunt was willing to have a conversation. Regarding Mr. Den-narong, the relative, he stated that on the day of the incident, he heard his nephew crying, so he went out and found someone already assisting him, but the dog immediately turned and bit his leg. At the same time, the news reporter visited the aunt's store to discuss the incident, but the aunt stated that she was not available for an interview. -- © Copyright ASEAN NOW 2023-06-09 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information. Get your business in front of millions of customers who read ASEAN NOW with an interest in Thailand every month - email [email protected] for more information

Several foreign banks do not want to accept the Swedish krona - which affects travelers who cannot exchange money during the trip. According to the currency dealer Forex, it has not been possible to exchange the Swedish krona abroad for several days. For Swedish tourists, it becomes problematic, as they cannot exchange money for the local currency. According to Dagens Nyheter, Thailand and some countries in the Middle East refuse to buy in the Swedish krona. When Swedish tourists visited foreign banks and exchange offices, they were told that "Sweden does not want the krona to be used abroad", according to DN. Forex has confirmed the information on its website. "Many customers contacted Forex customer service and wondered what to do after they failed to obtain local currencies abroad," says Tom Friberg, head of communications at Forex, to DN. The change happened suddenly and many were taken aback. “It happened quickly. Overnight starting May 31. But it also seems that foreign banks and exchange offices have started to act like this a few days before," says Tom Friberg. According to Forex, it is about Nordic banks no longer wanting to repatriate (buy back) their local currencies from abroad. Since the turn of the year, Danish banks have acted in this way, and now Norwegian and Swedish banks are also doing the same. This in turn means that foreign banks or exchange offices cannot get rid of the Swedish currency that they buy in from, for example, tourists. There is not much information from the Swedish banks about this. Forex writes on its website that they are currently working on finding answers. Those of you planning to travel abroad should make sure to exchange money before departure. Also do not take Swedish cash abroad with you, Forex writes on its website. -- © Copyright ASEAN NOW 2023-06-06 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information. Get your business in front of millions of customers who read ASEAN NOW with an interest in Thailand every month - email [email protected] for more information

Last month, Phuket Immigration Bureau reported that five Thai landlords received yellow cards while only one foreigner was given a warning. Twenty-three foreigners were arrested during the same month for various violations classified under Group 4, which pertain to offences against the state. Additionally, nine landlords or property managers were arrested for failing to register their foreign tenants, as required by Section 38 of the Immigration Act. Section 38 of the Immigration Act mandates that house owners, heads of households, landlords, or hotel managers accommodating foreign nationals temporarily must notify the local immigration authorities within 24 hours from the time of the foreign national’s arrival. In May, one Russian national received a yellow card for an undisclosed offence. A second warning for this individual could potentially lead to deportation from Thailand. Furthermore, five Thai nationals were issued yellow cards for offences committed by foreign nationals renting accommodation from them. by Mitch Connor Full story: https://thethaiger.com/news/phuket/phuket-immigration-issues-yellow-cards-to-thai-landlords-and-foreigner -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-06-05 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

Thailand – Financial institutions in Thailand have begun mandating facial recognition for customers conducting high-value transactions. The move, aimed at reducing fraudulent activities and scams, is expected to provide extra security for clients. Deputy Government Spokesperson Traisuree Taisaranakul announced that all commercial and government banks will implement this new security measure. Starting from July, customers transacting 50,000 baht or more via mobile banking, or whose transactions exceed a daily limit of 200,000 baht, will be required to verify their identities via facial recognition systems. Traisuree explained that this measure is part of broader anti-cybercrime initiatives spearheaded by the Bank of Thailand (BOT) and other relevant agencies. By Adam Judd Full story: https://thepattayanews.com/2023/06/04/yes-thai-banks-are-starting-to-require-facial-recognition-for-high-value-transactions/ -- © Copyright The Pattaya News 2023-06-05 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

A Thai man suffered serious injuries after his cousin intentionally set him on fire at his home in the northern province of Chaing Rai at night on May 28. The perpetrator’s girlfriend revealed that the violent act was motivated by a drug-related dispute. The incident took place in a residential area belonging to the Akha ethnic community, situated in the Mae Yao Police Station district of Chiang Rai province. As news of the incident reached the authorities, officers from Mae Yao Police Station swiftly responded to the distressing scene. They arrived to find the 28 year old victim, Somchok, writhing in agony from extensive burns that covered his entire body. Providing an account of the events leading up to the incident, Somchok’s 30 year old brother-in-law, Arzhe, shared details with the media. Arzhe explained that he, along with his wife and their four year old daughter, were sleeping in the corridor of the house, while Somchok and his wife were resting in the bedroom. The tranquillity of the night was abruptly shattered by piercing screams, accompanied by the sight of flames engulfing the bedroom. by Petch Petpailin Top Photo via Chaing Mai News Full story: https://thethaiger.com/news/national/thai-man-set-on-fire-by-cousin-in-drug-related-dispute -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-05-30 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

Rangsiman Rome tells reporters that efforts by conservative elements or perhaps misinformation operations should stop as he clarifies the Move Forward foreign policy position. He told reporters that while the reports were ‘fake news’ he was opposed to the prosecution of anyone for sharing information like this but simply wished that people behind such efforts would cease in the interests of national unity. The Move Forward firebrand and key leader of the party, Rangsiman Rome, has firmly denied that the party supports allowing the United States to establish a military base in Thailand. On Wednesday, he pointed to the balanced commitment concerning Thailand’s relationship with key world powers given in its Memorandum of Understanding or programme for government and stated that Move Forward would object to any such move as it is committed to protecting the country’s sovereignty. The controversy comes amid rising tensions between the United States and China with indications that Thailand’s neighbour Cambodia is forging stronger links with the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) including, according to US officials, the construction of a Chinese naval base in the Gulf of Thailand. Top Move Forward Party MP-elect Rangsiman Rome has come out to forcefully deny what he suspects are malicious rumours suggesting that the Move Forward Party has an agenda to let the United States establish a military base in Thailand. by Carla Boonkong & Pranee O' Connor Image caption: Move Forward Party key figure and MP elect Rangsiman Rome ( centre right) Full story: https://www.thaiexaminer.com/thai-news-foreigners/2023/05/26/move-forward-rejects-us-military-base-plan/ -- © Copyright Thai Examiner 2023-05-26 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.