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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/

Phuket- A cruise liner from Singapore with 3,700 tourists arrived at the Phuket Deep Sea Port in Wichit. Phuket Vice Governor Adul Choothong welcomed 3,700 tourists who arrived on the M.V. Genting Dream, Bahamas national cruise liner from Singapore. The Phuket Marine Office Chief Mr. Chayaphong Pranit gave more details about the cruise to the Phuket Express. ad This is the first time this year that the Genting Dream arrived at the Phuket Deep Sea Port. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 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

Six Houses in Pattaya Burglarized in One Night By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya — Residents of two villages in Pattaya were left shaken after a burglar snuck into their communities and burglarized six homes in one night. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333866-six-houses-in-pattaya-burglarized-in-one-night/

Pattaya — Residents of two villages in Pattaya were left shaken after a burglar snuck into their communities and burglarized six homes in one night. On July 25th, 2024, The Pattaya News reporters visited the villages in question, located near a motorway in the Nongprue sub-district, Banglamung district, Chonburi province. This followed complaints from several residents who claimed that a burglar had entered their villages at night and broken into homes, stealing numerous belongings. Mr. Bee (real name withheld upon request), the project manager of one of the affected villages, reported that the area had been targeted about eight times since early July. Most recently, on the night of July 23rd, the burglar broke into four homes between 1:00 and 2:00 AM, entering living rooms, dining areas, and kitchens even while residents were asleep inside some of the houses. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 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

Young Pattaya Man Arrested for Attempted Robbery of Motorcycle Taxi Driver By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya — A young Thai man was arrested for attempted robbery against a motorcycle taxi driver in Pattaya yesterday, July 24th, 2024. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333865-young-pattaya-man-arrested-for-attempted-robbery-of-motorcycle-taxi-driver/

Pattaya — A young Thai man was arrested for attempted robbery against a motorcycle taxi driver in Pattaya yesterday, July 24th, 2024. The suspect, identified by Pattaya Police as 23-year-old Mr. Suphat Fonkrathok, was arrested in Soi Phonprapanimit 5, Nongprue sub-district, Banglamung district, Chonburi province around 8:46 PM. According to Pattaya Police, a motorcycle taxi driver, 60-year-old Mr. Sakchai (full name withheld upon request), reported to them that he was threatened by a robber who posed himself as a passenger. The robber demanded all his belongings, threatening “How old are you? Do you want to die?” The robber then turned off the motorcycle’s ignition and continued the threat. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 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 Immigration Officials Uncover ID Trading Scheme Through Chinese Billboard Ad at Huai Khwang Intersection By Kittisak Phalaharn On July 25th, 2024, Thai immigration officers and relevant agencies provided an update on a case involving a Chinese-language billboard at Huai Khwang Intersection in Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333864-thai-immigration-officials-uncover-id-trading-scheme-through-chinese-billboard-ad/

On July 25th, 2024, Thai immigration officers and relevant agencies provided an update on a case involving a Chinese-language billboard at Huai Khwang Intersection in Bangkok. The investigation revealed that Mr. Xin Ling, a 33-year-old Chinese national, was involved and is on China’s most-wanted list for “Illegally trading ID cards”. He is the husband of Ms. Su Na, a 35-year-old Chinese national. Thai Immigration investigators have added him to their watchlist and temporarily revoked his residency. On July 24th at 7:00 AM, Xin was found attempting to leave Thailand via Don Mueang Airport. However, he was detained by Thai authorities and was handed over to the Immigration Investigation Division for further processing. By Kittisak Phalaharn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 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

Pakistani Serial Thieves Arrested in Phuket for Short Change Artist Scams in Pattaya and Phuket By Adam Judd Phuket, Thailand – Two Pakistani nationals were apprehended in Kamala after a series of thefts involving a clever 1,000 baht banknote trick. The suspects targeted businesses across Phuket, Pattaya, and other provinces. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333863-pakistani-serial-thieves-arrested-in-phuket-for-short-change-artist-scams/

Phuket, Thailand – Two Pakistani nationals were apprehended in Kamala after a series of thefts involving a clever 1,000 baht banknote trick. The suspects targeted businesses across Phuket, Pattaya, and other provinces. On Wednesday (July 24th) at 9:00 P.M., a foreign suspect entered a Kamala pharmacy posing as a customer. He engaged the pharmacist in conversation, using a 1,000 baht banknote to confuse them. The ruse involved pretending to buy small items, then claiming he didn’t want them, resulting in the pharmacist returning the banknote. The suspect would then change his mind and speak quickly, confusing the cashier, receiving both the items and the change, effectively leaving with the original 1,000 baht note. In the west, this sort of scam is called short changing, or a short change artist. The second suspect waited on a motorbike outside the pharmacy, ready to flee. This same tactic was employed at a mini mart in Kamala and three other businesses in Patong. In June, the duo executed similar scams in Pattaya, and earlier in March, they targeted shops in central Thailand, including Ayutthaya, Ang Thong, and Singburi according to Thai police. By Adam Judd Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 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

Move Forward submits three constitutional amendment bills The opposition Move Forward party has submitted three draft bills to parliament today, seeking amendments to the Constitution. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333862-move-forward-submits-three-constitutional-amendment-bills/

The opposition Move Forward party has submitted three draft bills to parliament today, seeking amendments to the Constitution. Move Forward spokesman Parit Wacharasindhu said that the draft bills seek to abrogate all edicts and orders issued by the post-coup administration, known as the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO), which toppled the elected government of Yingluck Shinawatra in 2014. The drafts aim to prevent and resist future military takeovers and to scrap the 20-year National Strategic Plan. Parit explained that Move Forward decided to submit its own version of constitutional amendments to the House, because the process of crafting a new charter will take about two years which, they claim, is too slow. Full story: Thai PBS 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 to Probe Alleged Weapons Payments to Myanmar Junta Image for representation only. Picture courtesy: Indian Express Thailand's central bank and anti-laundering office are set to investigate claims that Thai commercial banks facilitated transactions for weapons purchases by Myanmar's junta, the Thai foreign ministry announced on Wednesday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333860-bank-of-thailand-to-probe-alleged-weapons-payments-to-myanmar-junta/

Thailand's central bank and anti-laundering office are set to investigate claims that Thai commercial banks facilitated transactions for weapons purchases by Myanmar's junta, the Thai foreign ministry announced on Wednesday. Since Myanmar’s military ousted Aung San Suu Kyi's government in 2021, the country has been engulfed in violent turmoil. This coup led to severe crackdowns and widespread instability. In response, international bodies like the United States and the European Union have issued sanctions against members of Myanmar's junta and its associated businesses. A recent report by a UN expert claimed that the junta has imported nearly $130 million in military supplies from Thailand-registered suppliers from March 2023 to March 2024, a stark increase compared to the previous year. The report, authored by special rapporteur Tom Andrews, highlighted the pivotal role of five Thai commercial banks in these transactions. Following this report, Thai officials convened on Wednesday to discuss these potential connections between Thai banks and the Myanmar junta's arms procurement. "The Bank of Thailand and the anti-money laundering office will jointly establish a Task Force to investigate these transactions," stated Nikorndej Balankura, Thai foreign affairs ministry spokesperson. However, no specific timeline for the investigation was provided. Myanmar's military coup disrupted a brief period of democratic governance, thrusting the nation into chaos. The junta is now engaged in fierce conflicts with established ethnic minority armed groups and newly formed pro-democracy "People’s Defence Forces." Rights organisations and monitoring groups have accused the junta of committing potential war crimes in its efforts to crush dissent. Reports indicate that over 5,400 people have been killed and 27,000 arrested in the junta's crackdown since the 2021 coup. The outcome of Thailand's investigation could shed light on the financial networks enabling Myanmar's military operations, potentially influencing international actions against banking facilitations linked to human rights abuses. TOP Image for representation only. Picture courtesy: Indian Express -- 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

Pheu Thai’s Digital Wallet Plan Faces Criticism from Academic Artwork courtesy: Thai Rath Pheu Thai's ambitious plan to distribute 10,000-baht digital wallet payouts might not translate into sustained political popularity, as pointed out by political scientist Pornchai Theppanya. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333859-pheu-thai’s-digital-wallet-plan-faces-criticism-from-academic/

Pheu Thai's ambitious plan to distribute 10,000-baht digital wallet payouts might not translate into sustained political popularity, as pointed out by political scientist Pornchai Theppanya. The former dean of Ramkhamhaeng University's Political Science Faculty opined that the populist measure, spearheaded by Thaksin Shinawatra’s party, is unlikely to secure long-term voter loyalty. Pornchai highlighted that although over 10 million people voted for Pheu Thai in the last general election, largely due to the promise of these handouts, the next election might not see the same level of support. He believes, "When people hit the polls next, they won’t easily remember this 10,000-baht scheme as a reason to stick with Pheu Thai," likening it to a fleeting giveaway. The academic noted the historical precedence of short-lived benefits from similar populist strategies. He cited the declining popularity of Ruam Thai Sang Chart, led by former coup leader and ex-PM Prayut Chan-o-cha, despite various giveaway initiatives like co-payment schemes and state welfare cards. "The parallel here is telling. Just because a party gives money away doesn’t mean people will stay loyal," Pornchai remarked. The Pheu Thai's central project is set to use government funding ranging between 450 to 500 billion baht. This substantial financial commitment, derived from taxpayers' money, may not be enough to overcome voter scepticism. Pornchai suggested that people are becoming more discerning and might see through the populist ploy. Adding to this complexity, Pornchai pointed out that Thaksin might be clinging to the past glories of his erstwhile popular Thai Rak Thai campaign, rather than adapting to current political dynamics. He mentioned that even Thaksin’s famed 30-baht healthcare initiative, often touted as a major achievement, was initially crafted by rural doctors, not the party itself. In a surprising political move, Thaksin has recently cozied up to Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul, a clear indication of the shifting alliances in Thai politics. Pornchai sees this as a desperate bid to maintain relevance in the ever-evolving political landscape where traditional ties and rivalries often blur. In summary, while the 10,000-baht digital wallets might offer short-term gains, the long-term political efficacy remains questioned, highlighting the complex nature of voter loyalty in contemporary Thai politics. Artwork courtesy: Thai Rath -- 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

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 26 July 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1333858-thailand-live-friday-26-july-2024/

Thaksin Shinawatra. Picture courtesy: The Nation Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra will celebrate his 75th birthday with a private but grand event at his Chan Song Lar mansion in Bangkok. Thaksin's Birthday Celebration: A-List Guests, Alms Giving, and Luncheon Picture: Thaksin Shinawatra. Picture courtesy: The Nation Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333857-thaksins-birthday-celebration-a-list-guests-alms-giving-and-luncheon/

Thaksin Shinawatra. Picture courtesy: The Nation Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra will celebrate his 75th birthday with a private but grand event at his Chan Song Lar mansion in Bangkok tomorrow. His daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, shared that the day will feature traditional Buddhist alms-giving and a lunch with close friends. Thaksin plans to offer alms to Buddhist monks in the morning, a cherished tradition he hasn't observed at home in previous years. The alms-giving ceremony is expected to be intimate, focusing on gratitude and spiritual merit. "Only those closest to my father will be invited to join the lunch," Paetongtarn explained. High-profile guests anticipated at the gathering include Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai and former PM’s Office minister Puangpet Chunlaiad. This selective guest list highlights Thaksin’s preference for low-key but meaningful celebrations surrounded by those he trusts. This birthday is especially poignant for Thaksin, who has been residing under parole at his mansion since returning from years of self-imposed exile. Following medical treatment at the General Police Hospital upon his return, Thaksin's parole period is set to conclude this month, adding further significance to this celebration. Thaksin’s return to Thailand and subsequent parole have been major news topics, constantly monitored by the media. His choice to observe his birthday with a heartfelt, traditional ceremony underscores his deep connection to Buddhist practices and his close-knit circle of friends and family, The Nation reports. Meanwhile, the Pheu Thai Party and coalition partner Bhumjaithai Party dismissed rumours of undisclosed agreements after Thaksin and Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul were seen golfing together in Nakhon Ratchasima over the weekend. Anutin, who also serves as Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister, clarified that the Shinawatra family stayed at a different hotel and assured that no political discussions occurred with Thaksin, widely seen as Pheu Thai’s de facto leader. -- 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 at risk of losing eyesight after being mauled by a bear by Petch Petpailin Photo via Matichon A Thai man risks losing his eyesight after a bear attacked him on his plantation on Tuesday in the central province of Nakhon Nayok resulting in severe injuries. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333813-thai-man-at-risk-of-losing-eyesight-after-being-mauled-by-a-bear/ Locals in the Pak Plee district of Nakhon Nayok reported the discovery of a b

A Thai man risks losing his eyesight after a bear attacked him on his plantation on Tuesday in the central province of Nakhon Nayok resulting in severe injuries. Locals in the Pak Plee district of Nakhon Nayok reported the discovery of a bear weighing about 100 kilogrammes to the director of Khao Yai National Park on July 19, prompting rangers to investigate the community and nearby forest in search of the bear. The ranger team set up two traps in the area in an attempt to capture the bear and relocate it deep into the forest but their efforts were unsuccessful. The bear remains at large, foraging in local plantations for food. Unfortunately, 65 year old Thongbai Wongsakarn was attacked by the bear on Tuesday while harvesting on his plantation. Thongbai suffered severe injuries including a fractured skull, broken jaw, and extensive facial wounds after being clawed in the face. Matichon reported that he is at risk of losing his right eye. Currently, Thongbai is receiving treatment in the intensive care unit at Chao Phraya Abhaibhubejhr Hospital in Prachinburi province. Rangers have adjusted their strategy from capturing the bear to exerting pressure on it to retreat into the deep forest. They have been tracking the bear’s footprints and attempting to stress it into fleeing to a safer habitat. Additionally, rangers are conducting patrols in the community to ensure the safety of residents. In a related report, another bear attack occurred in March in the Isaan province of Buriram. A Thai man was attacked by an Asian black bear while he was hunting for ant eggs in the Dong Yai Wildlife Sanctuary. The bear approached the victim from behind, clawed his face, bit his leg, and dragged him away. Fortunately, the man managed to escape by using a knife to threaten the animal. Another bear attack was reported in January at a wildlife foundation in Chiang Mai when a Swiss man lost his right arm while feeding the bear. The bear bit his arm, so he decided to cut off his arm to save his own life. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Matichon Source: The Thaigerr 2024-07-25 - 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 woman arrested for knife-point robbery at Chon Buri store by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ เคลียร์ ชัด ชัด Police arrested a Thai woman yesterday after she robbed a convenience store in Chon Buri province and threatened a worker with a knife on July 22. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333810-thai-woman-arrested-for-knife-point-robbery-at-chon-buri-store/