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Thailand faces investment challenge post-1997 financial crisis by Sarishti Arora Picture courtesy of Precondo CA Thailand faces investment challenges post-1997 financial crisis despite natural gas discovered in the Gulf of Thailand around 40 years ago sparked nationwide excitement, marking the beginning of a golden era. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333598-thailand-faces-investment-challenge-post-1997-financial-crisis/

Thailand faces investment challenges post-1997 financial crisis despite natural gas discovered in the Gulf of Thailand around 40 years ago sparked nationwide excitement, marking the beginning of a golden era. This period saw the launch of the Eastern Seaboard Development Project aimed at developing the eastern coastal region. Foreign investment surged, propelling the economy to expand at double-digit rates, and raising hopes that Thailand would become Asia’s fifth tiger. However, internal political instability and poor economic policy management led to the 1997 financial crisis, known as the Tom Yum Kung crisis. This crisis was triggered by excessive lending by financial institutions and the liberalisation of the financial market, enabling commercial banks to borrow from foreign entities to provide loans domestically. Reviving domestic investment remains a significant challenge for Thailand’s government as it seeks to lift the economy out of its prolonged low-growth phase. The director-general of the Fiscal Policy Office under the Finance Ministry, Pornchai Thiraveja, highlighted that since the 1997-98 financial crisis, the total investment ratio of both public and private sectors has fallen below 25% of GDP. In 2023, total investment reached 2.6 trillion baht, nearly the same as 25 years ago, which was 2.7 trillion baht. Pre-crisis, in 1996, Thailand’s total investment to GDP ratio was as high as 51%. Private investment against GDP, peaking at 41% in 1995, dropped to 18% in 2023. Public investment in GDP, which peaked at 13% in 1997, has steadily declined to 6% in 2023, said Pornchai. “It is necessary to shift our investment towards new engines of growth, which include 10 sectors such as agriculture, food and biotechnology, healthcare, and automotive and machinery.” According to the Board of Investment, estimated investments in these 10 sectors are projected to reach 465 billion baht in 2023, 579 billion baht in 2024, and 638 billion baht in 2025. Infrastructure investments Thailand has a history of significant infrastructure investments, including Suvarnabhumi International Airport, which began construction in 1960 and opened in 2005, and the Eastern Seaboard Development Programme launched in 1982. Other projects include the electric train projects in Bangkok and surrounding provinces starting in 1990 and the ongoing Mass Rapid Transit project initiated in 1997. More recent initiatives such as the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) beginning in 2018 with 650 billion baht in infrastructure investment, and the integrated entertainment complex project with about 100 billion baht investment, underscore the country’s commitment to large-scale development. Moreover, future investment projects under the Ignite Thailand initiative include eight visions: 1. A tourism hub, focusing on enhancing secondary cities, upgrading SMEs, and promoting soft power through tax measures. 2. A wellness and medical hub, integrating healthcare with tourism to generate national income and support SMEs. 3. An agriculture and food hub, aiming to elevate agricultural and food production. 4. An aviation hub, enhancing infrastructure to boost SMEs’ capabilities. 5. A logistics hub, investing in Land Bridge infrastructure to connect coastlines and boost business opportunities. 6. A future mobility hub, supporting electric vehicle production and the automotive industry. 7. A digital economy hub, attracting digital industry investment and supporting startups. 8. A financial hub, enhancing the financial system and capital market, promoting digital assets, and developing carbon credit trading. Plans are also in place to enhance transportation systems nationwide. The Transport Ministry aims to expand primary and secondary roads by 2050, increasing the length of the country’s motorway tenfold from 250 kilometres to nearly 2,500 km and expanding national highways to four lanes from the current 20,000 km to 23,000 km. By 2030, the nationwide rail system will expand, increasing double-track rail by 2,000 km to 5,500 km, connecting Thailand with China and Malaysia. Bangkok and regional electric train routes will increase to cover almost 700 km, and high-speed trains will connect three airports and the border with Laos at Nong Khai. Deep-sea ports like Laem Chabang will also be expanded. Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira stated that the economy should not grow below 3.5%, but due to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, the economy grew by an average of only 0.4% over the past five years. The National Economic and Social Development Council projects growth of around 2.4-2.5% for this year, with potential acceleration to 3% following the 2024 budget. Kasikorn Research Center (K-Research) highlighted structural economic issues, noting that the industrial sector lags behind global market demands. The manufacturing production index (MPI) is expected to contract by 2% this year, following a 3.8% decline last year, primarily due to poor performance in sectors like electronic equipment, automobiles, and construction materials. K-Research emphasised the need for a significant overhaul of Thailand’s industrial sector, pointing out the lack of investment in enhancing national competitiveness over the past decades, especially in comparison to Vietnam, reported Bangkok Post. by Sarishti Arora Picture courtesy of Precondo CA Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-23 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. 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Record Visitor Numbers Boost Phuket’s Tourism Industry By Tom Sinclair Phuket experienced a remarkable increase in visitor arrivals in April 2024, according to figures released this week. Leading the influx were tourists from Russia, with approximately 63,500 visitors, making them the largest group of international travelers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333596-record-visitor-numbers-boost-phuket’s-tourism-industry/

Phuket experienced a remarkable increase in visitor arrivals in April 2024, according to figures released this week. Leading the influx were tourists from Russia, with approximately 63,500 visitors, making them the largest group of international travelers. Chinese tourists were the second-largest group, contributing around 46,700 visitors. Additionally, there was a significant presence of tourists from India and Australia, further emphasizing Phuket’s global appeal. The resurgence of tourism in Phuket is a testament to the island’s enduring charm and its successful recovery efforts post-pandemic. The increase in visitor numbers is not only a positive indicator for Phuket but also for Thailand’s broader tourism industry, which relies heavily on international travel. Phuket’s tourism authorities have been actively promoting the island’s diverse attractions, ranging from its pristine beaches and vibrant nightlife to its cultural landmarks and culinary delights. These efforts seem to be paying off as the island continues to attract a diverse array of visitors from around the world. By Tom Sinclair Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-07-23 - 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

Digital Wallet Scheme Excludes 18 Products and Services Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. Image courtesy: Thai Post The Thai government has unveiled a new "digital wallet" scheme aimed at bolstering local economies and benefiting smaller retailers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333595-digital-wallet-scheme-excludes-18-products-and-services/

Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. Image courtesy: Thai Post The Thai government has unveiled a new "digital wallet" scheme aimed at bolstering local economies and benefiting smaller retailers. However, 18 specific products and services have been excluded from being purchased through this initiative, Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai confirmed today. The "digital wallet" scheme permits citizens to make transactions using government-provided benefits aimed at encouraging spending within communities. Yet, to ensure the scheme is utilised for essential, everyday needs and not for luxury or non-essential items, the government has outlined a list of excluded products. These include lottery tickets, alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, cannabis, kratom, and their derivatives. Also on the exclusion list are souvenirs, cash vouchers, gold, diamonds, gemstones, fuel oil, natural gas, electrical appliances, electronic equipment, and communication devices. Minister Phumtham emphasised that while these exclusions are firmly in place, the list is not set in stone and may be revisited. "If we find that certain excluded products are essential for daily life or job creation, we will review and adjust the list as needed," he said. In response to concerns that the scheme might disproportionately benefit large corporate retailers, Phumtham assured the public that the focus would be on smaller, community-based businesses. The scheme aims to uplift independent retailers, grocery stores, community shops, Blue Flag chains, and cooperative stores, deliberately excluding major retail giants and wholesale outlets. To prepare for the launch, Thailand's Commerce Ministry, along with other relevant departments such as Internal Trade and Business Development, the Interior, and Agriculture ministries, are finalising their processes. Businesses interested in joining the scheme will soon be able to register. Currently, about 146,000 Blue Flag outlets, 5,000 Blue Flag eateries, and approximately 400,000 retail outlets including food shops are eligible to participate. The registration process for both businesses and individuals is slated to start in August. -- 2024-07-23 - 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

Chinese Tourist Dies After Falling From Songthaew In Pattaya by TNR Staff The songthaew passenger vehicle from which the Chinese tourist fell. Photo Amarin TV A CHINESE man holidaying in Pattaya who fell from a songthaew passenger vehicle early this morning (July 22) later died from his injuries after being rushed to a hospital, TV Channel 7 and Amarin TV said. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333594-chinese-tourist-dies-after-falling-from-songthaew-in-pattaya/?utm_source=240723-03

The songthaew passenger vehicle from which the Chinese tourist fell. Photo Amarin TV A CHINESE man holidaying in Pattaya who fell from a songthaew passenger vehicle early this morning (July 22) later died from his injuries after being rushed to a hospital, TV Channel 7 and Amarin TV said. The tourist, identified as Mr. Chi Fai Lam, 48, was seriously injured after falling from the songthaew on Pattaya Sai Song road at around 8.30 a.m. with the driver not stopping to help him. Ms. Sri Phai Panthongdi, 56, a motorcycle taxi rider who was waiting for a passenger at a nearby stand, said someone called out that a tourist was lying injured on the road after falling from the public vehicle with the driver zooming off without helping him so she quickly called the authorities to come and help and investigate. by TNR Staff Full story: THAI NEWSROOM 2024-07-23 - 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

American Arrested for Stabbing Australian to Death in Thailand Near Noppharat Thara Beach, Krabi. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In a tragic incident in Krabi, Thailand, an American man has been arrested for allegedly stabbing an Australian man to death following a drunken altercation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333592-american-arrested-for-stabbing-australian-to-death-in-thailand/

Near Noppharat Thara Beach, Krabi. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In a tragic incident in Krabi, Thailand, an American man has been arrested for allegedly stabbing an Australian man to death following a drunken altercation. Shortly after 2:00 AM on July 22, Lt. Wichote Meepop, Deputy Inspector of Ao Nang Police Station, received a distress call about a brawl near Noppharat Thara Beach, opposite the Razorback Conch Sculpture. Officers soon arrived to find Mr. Liam Michael Ross, a 35-year-old Australian national, gravely injured with stab wounds to his abdomen, leg, and arm. Despite prompt medical attention and being transferred from Wattana Hospital in Ao Nang to Krabi Hospital, Mr. Ross succumbed to his injuries. The suspect, identified as 43-year-old American Randall Owen Johnson, was apprehended at the scene. Still under the influence of alcohol, he was in possession of a folding knife and did not attempt to flee. He was taken to Ao Nang Police Station, where detailed questioning will take place with legal and linguistic assistance. Eyewitnesses revealed that both men had been drinking at a nearby restaurant before the incident. Their paths crossed again as Mr. Ross walked back to his hotel, leading to a confrontation. What started as a verbal spat quickly escalated into a physical fight, during which Mr. Johnson allegedly drew a knife and inflicted multiple stab wounds on Mr. Ross. Preliminary investigations suggest that the two men were strangers who may have had a disagreement at the restaurant. However, further inquiries are needed to determine the precise motive and sequence of events leading to the fatal encounter. -- 2024-07-23 - 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 Tuesday 23 July 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1333591-thailand-live-tuesday-23-july-2024/

A large billboard in Bangkok, advertising foreign passports for sale, has sparked significant concern among locals and officials alike. Move Forward Party list-MP Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn highlighted the alarming presence of the Chinese-language advertisement located at the Din Daeng intersection. Bangkok Billboard Offering Foreign Passports for Sale Raises Concerns Chinese language billboard. Picture courtesy: Prachathai Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333590-bangkok-billboard-offering-foreign-passports-for-sale-raises-concerns/

Chinese language billboard. Picture courtesy: Prachathai A large billboard in Bangkok, advertising foreign passports for sale, has sparked significant concern among locals and officials alike. Move Forward Party list-MP Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn highlighted the alarming presence of the Chinese-language advertisement located at the Din Daeng intersection. Targeting primarily Chinese nationals who reside or conduct business in Bangkok's Din Daeng and Huai Khwang districts, the billboard offers passports from various countries at different prices. The advertisement lists rates such as 30,000 yuan for an Indonesian passport, 70,000 yuan for Vanuatu, 150,000 yuan for Cambodian, and 150,000 yuan for a Turkish passport. It assures potential buyers of the authenticity of the passports and guarantees delivery within 30 days, promising confidentiality throughout the process. Payments are to be made when the passports are ready. Wiroj conveyed that, due to the advertisement being in Chinese, it might not have caught the attention of the government or police. Nevertheless, he warned that if these claims were legitimate, Thailand could become a haven for transnational criminals seeking foreign passports. He also pointed out that several criminal elements from China are exploiting Thailand's lax immigration policies and, aided by corrupt officials, are engaging in illicit activities within the country. Pol Maj-Gen Panthana Nutchanart, the deputy commissioner of the Immigration Bureau, stated that the advertisement is not illegal since it does not offer Thai passports. He remarked that the sale of foreign passports is a common practice in several countries. Following public uproar, the billboard has since been taken down by the advertising agency responsible for its installation. A representative from the local advertising company explained that they were contacted by a Singaporean firm to put up the billboard and did not thoroughly verify its content, assuming the source was credible. The agency has since informed the Singaporean company about the removal. -- 2024-07-23 - 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 Official Spreads Fake News About Football Star Lamine Yamal Lamine Yamal. Picture courtesy: 3Plus NEWS Professor Charoen Watthanasin, Vice Chairman of the Thai Olympic Committee, has caused a social media uproar by sharing incorrect information about Spanish football star Lamine Yamal. The controversy began when Charoen tweeted an image of the 17-year-old, who recently played a key role in Spain's Euro 2024 victory, along with claims of his Thai origins. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333523-thai-official-spreads-fake-news-about-football-star-lamine-yamal/

Lamine Yamal. Picture courtesy: 3Plus NEWS Professor Charoen Watthanasin, Vice Chairman of the Thai Olympic Committee, has caused a social media uproar by sharing incorrect information about Spanish football star Lamine Yamal. The controversy began when Charoen tweeted an image of the 17-year-old, who recently played a key role in Spain's Euro 2024 victory, along with claims of his Thai origins. Charoen's tweet read, "I am proud to be born in Thailand, under the royal grace of the king. Though my physical form is Catalan, my blood is always blue-red-white (Lamine Yamal – Spanish national football player, European Cup champion, Thai born in Yala)." The post quickly gained attention, being widely retweeted and liked. However, it soon became apparent that the story lacked any basis in truth. Reliable sources confirmed that Yamal was not born in Thailand, and the claim was debunked as fake news. Lamine Yamal's actual full name is Lamine Yamal Nasraoui Ebana. He was born on July 13, 2007, in Mataro, Catalonia. His father, Munir Nasraoui, hails from Morocco, while his mother, Sheila Ebana, comes from Equatorial Guinea. Both parents emigrated to Spain before his birth, making the claim of his Thai origins entirely false. Despite these facts, Charoen's tweet remains online, though he has since issued an apology. In a follow-up message, he said, "I deeply apologise if it is fake news," acknowledging the misinformation he had spread. This incident highlights the broader issue of fake news in Thailand. In related news: The Thai Government, led by the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (DE), has mobilised 400 agencies to combat the growing problem of misinformation and online scams. -- 2024-07-22 - 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

Electricity price for September-December to remain at the current rate The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) and PTT have agreed to freeze the electricity price for September through December at 4.18 baht/unit, as requested by the Ministry of Energy to ease the burden on consumers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333522-electricity-price-for-september-december-to-remain-at-the-current-rate/

The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) and PTT have agreed to freeze the electricity price for September through December at 4.18 baht/unit, as requested by the Ministry of Energy to ease the burden on consumers. The Energy Regulatory Commission said earlier that the price during the last four months of the year may rise to between 4.65 and 6.01 baht/unit, due to a weakening of the baht against the greenback from May to August and the increase in the spot price of LNG, the main fuel used for electricity production, by US$3.2 per million BTU. The fuel tariff (FT) for the last quarter may be adjusted to between 46.83 and 182.99 satang/unit, which means the electricity price will have to be adjusted to 4.65-6.01 baht/unit. Full story: Thai PBS 2024-07-22 - 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

Officer Killed, Hostages Freed After 8-Hour Standoff in Bangkok Suburb Hostage standoff with police in Bangkok. Picture courtesy: Thai PBS After an intense eight-hour hostage standoff with police in Bangkok, a man was found dead in a house, with the confrontation tragically resulting in the death of one officer and the injury of another. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333521-officer-killed-hostages-freed-after-8-hour-standoff-in-bangkok-suburb/

Move Forward MP Advocates for Legalising AVs and Sex Toys Taopiphop Limjittrakorn. File photo courtesy: Daily News Move Forward MP Taopiphop Limjittrakorn has announced his intention to propose a bill to decriminalise and regulate adult videos (AVs) and sex toys in Thailand, sparking debates across the country. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333520-move-forward-mp-advocates-for-legalising-avs-and-sex-toys/

Hostage standoff with police in Bangkok. Picture courtesy: Thai PBS After an intense eight-hour hostage standoff with police in Bangkok, a man was found dead in a house, with the confrontation tragically resulting in the death of one officer and the injury of another. The ordeal began last night at 9.35pm, when police from the Tha Kham police station responded to reports of a man, named Boonma, holding his family hostage at a house on Kanchana-Rama 2 Road. Boonma, who had known mental health issues, struck his daughter with a pistol, setting off a chain of distressing events. Upon arrival, Pol Lt-Col Kitchon Chanyarom and Pol Snr Sgt-Maj Chaiwat Attasophonwattana approached the residence. They were met with gunfire, allegedly from inside the house, resulting in Kitchon’s fatal injury and Chaiwat’s serious wounding. Both were transported to a nearby hospital where Kitchon was later pronounced dead. As the severity of the situation became clear, a SWAT team and additional officers were deployed, cordoning off the area. Negotiations ensued, with officers using a bullhorn to implore Boonma to surrender and release his family. Around 2am, Pol Lt-Gen Thiti Saengsawang, Metropolitan Police commissioner, took charge. Despite intermittent gunfire from the house, the police refrained from returning fire. By 5am, the tension peaked as police launched three stun grenades into the house and stormed it. Inside, Boonma was discovered deceased, though authorities did not reveal the cause of his death. The four hostages, including the injured daughter, were safely rescued. They received medical attention immediately. Lt-Gen Thiti affirmed that the operation adhered strictly to rules of engagement, ensuring minimal harm to the hostages. He also assured full compensation for the family of the deceased officer, Pol Lt-Col Kitchon. Boonma, known to be a gun enthusiast, had an arsenal of weapons, including four pistols and a shotgun. Police and emergency workers had previously encountered difficulties transporting Boonma for mental health treatment due to his aggressive behaviour. The community now mourns the loss of an officer while grappling with the trauma of an unexpected and terrifying night. -- 2024-07-22 - 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 MP Taopiphop Limjittrakorn has announced his intention to propose a bill to decriminalise and regulate adult videos (AVs) and sex toys in Thailand, sparking debates across the country. Taopiphop, representing Bangkok, shared his plans in a Facebook post this morning. The lawmaker is already well-known for advocating the liberalisation of the alcoholic beverage industry. He now aims to challenge Thailand's stringent regulations on AVs and sex toys, specifically targeting Section 287 of the Criminal Code. This section currently enforces a total ban on these items. The MP's proposal seeks to amend this law to allow controlled access to AVs and sex toys for adults over the age of 20. He insists that this move will not only legalise these products but also establish a framework to regulate their use responsibly. His bill includes strict measures against the portrayal of simulated or actual sexual violence in AVs, ensuring that the content adheres to ethical standards. To ensure product safety and quality, Taopiphop proposes empowering the Thai Food and Drug Administration (TFDA) and the Thailand Industrial Standards Institute (TICI) with regulatory oversight. These bodies would be responsible for issuing the necessary edicts to control the quality of AVs and sex toys available in the market. Taopiphop acknowledges the controversial nature of his proposal and the significant moral and cultural sentiments surrounding the issue in Thailand. He appreciates that the bill will likely face staunch opposition and criticism. Nevertheless, he expresses readiness to confront detractors head-on and is prepared to handle any repercussions that arise from his advocacy. The forthcoming parliamentary debate on this bill is expected to ignite widespread discussion and could mark a significant shift in Thailand's approach to adult entertainment and personal freedom. TOP: Taopiphop Limjittrakorn. File photo courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-07-22 - 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

Thaksin And Anutin Getting Together ‘Not An Attempt To End Row Over Marijuana’ De facto Pheu Thai boss Thaksin Shinawatra, his daughter/Pheu Thai leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Interior Minister-cum-Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul singing a song together at Khao Yai today, July 21, 2024. Photo: TV Channel 7 shared on X AFTER a photo of de facto Pheu Thai boss Thaksin Shinawatra, his daughter and party leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra singing a song together with Interior Minister-cum-Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul at Khao Yao circulated today (July 21), government whip Visuth Chainaroon denied this is an attempt to patch up differences over as relisting marijuana as a narcotic by the end of this year, Naewna newspaper said. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333518-thaksin-and-anutin-getting-together-‘not-an-attempt-to-end-row-over-marijuana’/

De facto Pheu Thai boss Thaksin Shinawatra, his daughter/Pheu Thai leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Interior Minister-cum-Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul singing a song together at Khao Yai today, July 21, 2024. Photo: TV Channel 7 shared on X AFTER a photo of de facto Pheu Thai boss Thaksin Shinawatra, his daughter and party leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra singing a song together with Interior Minister-cum-Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul at Khao Yao circulated today (July 21), government whip Visuth Chainaroon denied this is an attempt to patch up differences over as relisting marijuana as a narcotic by the end of this year, Naewna newspaper said. The decriminalisation of marijuana was the brainchild of Anutin with the liberal marijuana policy becoming effective on June 9, 2022 when he was public health minister during the previous government headed by Prayut Chan-o-cha who is currently de facto Ruam Thai Sang Chart boss and privy councillor. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has said that he wants the Public Health Ministry to amend the rules and re-list cannabis as a narcotic in a stunning U-turn just two years after Thailand became one of the first countries in Asia to decriminalise its recreational use. A network opposing the Pheu Thai-led government’s move to relist marijuana as a narcotic by yearend held a demonstration in front of the Government House earlier this month and submitted a proposal that a joint study be conducted on this step. by TNR Staff Full story: THAI NEWSROOM 2024-07-22 - 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

Nigerian Man Arrested in Thailand for Cocaine Possession and Visa Overstay Arrest on Koh Pha Ngan. Picture courtesy: Khaosod Thai police have arrested a 47-year-old Nigerian man on charges of drug possession and overstaying his visa in a dramatic crackdown on Koh Pha Ngan island. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333517-nigerian-man-arrested-in-thailand-for-cocaine-possession-and-visa-overstay/

Arrest on Koh Pha Ngan. Picture courtesy: Khaosod Thai police have arrested a 47-year-old Nigerian man on charges of drug possession and overstaying his visa in a dramatic crackdown on Koh Pha Ngan island. The individual, identified as Kenneth, was found with a significant quantity of cocaine and had overstayed his visa by several years. The operation was spearheaded by Tourist Police Chief Saksira Puek-am as part of a broader initiative aimed at curbing illegal activities, ranging from drug trafficking to unauthorised foreign workers. The campaign, which ran from July 19 to July 23, saw coordinated efforts from various local law enforcement agencies. When police raided Kenneth's room in a luxury hotel, they discovered two packages of cocaine hidden in his jeans pocket, one weighing 21.4 grammes and the other 10.1 grammes. His visa records showed that he entered Thailand on March 17, 2015, through the Padang Besar checkpoint in Songkhla Province, with permission to stay until October 1, 2015. He had not applied for any extensions, effectively overstaying his visa by over 3,214 days. During the arrest, Kenneth made an odd claim that he used magical practices to evade detection during his drug transactions. Authorities revealed that he was a member of a well-organised Nigerian drug trafficking network. Each network member had specific roles, ranging from financial transactions to drug distribution. For communication, the group relied solely on WhatsApp Business, which auto-deletes messages within a minute, making it difficult for authorities to trace them. The police discovered that Kenneth’s role was to place cocaine at various drop points on the island and send the location to buyers. He had been residing in the high-end hotel while carrying out his illicit activities. Following his arrest, Kenneth was charged with both visa overstaying and illegal possession of class 2 narcotics. He has been transferred to the Koh Pha Ngan Police Station for further legal proceedings. This incident sheds light on the continuing challenges that Thai authorities face in combating drug trafficking and immigration violations. -- 2024-07-22 - 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