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Picture courtesy: Thai Post Nine British tourists were detained in Phuket for disturbing the peace after riding their motorcycles recklessly and causing a public nuisance that led to numerous complaints from residents and tourists. The incident occurred early Thursday morning, with the group riding loudly along Khok San Road toward the Muang district, according to Pol Col Ekarat Plaiduang, superintendent of the Chalong police station. Reports from witnesses described their behaviour as disruptive in the otherwise quiet resort area. Police later tracked down the group, who had rented the motorcycles from Patong for the late-night ride. All nine individuals were summoned to the police station, where they faced charges for public disturbance. Their documents were checked, and each was fined, with the incident formally recorded by authorities, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-11-10

Thaksin accused of undermining Thai monarchy, court decision imminent Picture courtesy of Thairath Former Thailand Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has not yet provided testimony in a legal case where both he and the ruling Pheu Thai Party face serious allegations. The accusations suggest attempts to undermine Thailand’s constitutional monarchy. This development comes as the deadline for public prosecutors to submit their findings to the Constitutional Court is fast approaching. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343017-thaksin-accused-of-undermining-thai-monarchy-court-decision-imminent/

Thailand and China Unite to Boost Tourism Across ASEAN Region File photo: Facebook Cambodia Express News The China Tourism Academy is spearheading an initiative to enhance tourism development in China and across ASEAN, positioning Thailand as a central tourism hub. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343056-thailand-and-china-unite-to-boost-tourism-across-asean-region/

File photo: Facebook Cambodia Express News The China Tourism Academy is spearheading an initiative to enhance tourism development in China and across ASEAN, positioning Thailand as a central tourism hub. This effort, revealed by the Association of Thai Travel Agents, comes from recent discussions between the association’s secretary-general, Adith Chairattananon, and Dai Bin, president of the China Tourism Academy. The plan aligns with a broader policy outlined by Chinese President Xi Jinping, aiming to establish China as a global leader in tourism. The focus is not only on generating economic revenue but also on leveraging tourism research and academic insights for national benefits across economic and environmental dimensions. A proposed tourism research team of 100 experts from China and ASEAN countries will study optimal strategies for fostering tourism collaboration. This initiative aims to impact over 2 billion people, including China’s 1.4 billion population and ASEAN’s 600 million residents. Upon developing the plan's framework, it will be presented to the Chinese government for approval. Collaboration with the Thai government will follow under a memorandum of understanding (MOU), facilitated by Chinese Ambassador Han Zhiqiang. The MOU signing is anticipated next year, marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Thailand and China. Thailand's role as a tourism hub is attributed to its robust relationship with China, global recognition of its tourism industry, strategic geographic position, and potential for collaboration with ASEAN nations. This collaborative effort aims to strengthen tourism links between China and ASEAN, unlocking economic opportunities while improving the quality of life within the region. The project underscores a shared vision for sustainable tourism growth, leveraging Thailand's strategic role to amplify these efforts on a global platform, reported The Nation. -- 2024-11-09

Malaysia's Kelantan State Plans 100km Wall on Thai Border Picture courtesy: MGR online Kelantan, a Malaysian state adjoining Thailand's Narathiwat province, has put forward a proposal for constructing a 100-kilometre-long wall along its border. This ambitious project aims to address cross-border crimes, smuggling, and flooding issues. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343034-malaysias-kelantan-state-plans-100km-wall-on-thai-border/

Picture courtesy: MGR online Kelantan, a Malaysian state adjoining Thailand's Narathiwat province, has put forward a proposal for constructing a 100-kilometre-long wall along its border. This ambitious project aims to address cross-border crimes, smuggling, and flooding issues. Deputy Chief Minister Mohamed Fadzli Hassan shared with the Bernama news agency that Kelantan seeks approval from the federal government in Kuala Lumpur to proceed. The proposed wall will not only act as a physical barrier against illicit activities but also serve as a flood prevention measure. "Given the vastness of the Malaysia-Thailand border, relying solely on security forces to monitor the area is challenging. We are taking this proposal to the federal level," said Hassan on Tuesday. This initiative aligns with the suggestions of the Kelantan state police chief, who recently recommended such a measure to local authorities. The Kelantan-Narathiwat border runs along the Kolok River, presenting unique challenges due to its watery boundary. While Malaysian authorities have increased efforts to curb smuggling and crime along the Thai border, Kelantan faces particular difficulties. The issue is compounded by the fact that many border areas along the river are privately owned, complicating enforcement efforts. Neighbouring provinces like Satun, Songkhla, and Yala already have some existing border structures, including walls and fences. These are a mix of bilateral and unilateral projects designed to manage border integrity. As discussions move forward, this proposal highlights the ongoing complexity of managing international borders, where geographical and practical challenges persist. If approved, the wall would represent a significant commitment to addressing regional security and environmental issues. However, it may also require delicate negotiations with private landowners and careful consideration of cross-border relations, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-11-09

Anutin Visits Koh Kood as Thai-Cambodia MoU Stokes Fears File photo courtesy: Siam Rath Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister, Anutin Charnvirakul, is scheduled to make a significant visit to Koh Kood island on Monday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343032-anutin-visits-koh-kood-as-thai-cambodia-mou-stokes-fears/

File photo courtesy: Siam Rath Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister, Anutin Charnvirakul, is scheduled to make a significant visit to Koh Kood island on Monday. His visit comes amid concerns stirred by false information circulating about a 2001 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Thailand and Cambodia. This MoU has given rise to unfounded fears about Thailand's territorial claims over the picturesque island, popular with tourists. The source of these rumours dates back to an agreement from the early 2000s, signed during the tenure of former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and his Cambodian counterpart, Hun Sen. Despite assurances to the contrary, speculation persists about Koh Kood being partly under Cambodian jurisdiction, causing local unease and a notable 30% drop in tourism revenue on the island. Koh Kood, a tranquil paradise situated about 65 kilometres off the coast of Trat's mainland, was officially designated as a district in 2007. It has become a significant contributor to the region's economy, making the decline in tourist numbers a critical concern. Anutin's visit is intended to quell the fears among local residents and visitors, reinforcing Thailand's sovereignty over the island. As the leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, Anutin's presence is also politically strategic, reflecting the government's commitment to local development and stability. Meanwhile, the broader political discourse continues, with Bhumjaithai maintaining a cautious approach to the unresolved boundary discussions. In contrast, the Palang Pracharath Party urges the current Pheu Thai-led government to annul the contentious bilateral agreement, believing it disadvantages Thailand, reported THai Newsroom. As the situation unfolds, Anutin's actions on Koh Kood are seen as crucial in restoring confidence and preserving the island's vital tourism economy. -- 2024-11-09

Thai FDA Approves Shine Muscat Grapes After Rigorous Testing File photo for reference only The Thai Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has given the green light for a new shipment of imported Shine Muscat grapes, weighing in at 6.9 tonnes and valued at 3,053,616.47 baht (approximately US$89,780). The grapes have passed rigorous testing for agricultural chemical residues, confirming their safety for distribution throughout the country. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342999-thai-fda-approves-shine-muscat-grapes-after-rigorous-testing/

Thailand Named 2025 Destination of the Year by Travel + Leisure File photo for reference only Thailand has been chosen as “2025 Destination of the Year” by the US travel magazine, Travel + Leisure, gaining accolades for its cultural richness, stunning natural landscapes, and exquisite cuisine. This marks the tenth year of the magazine's prestigious annual recognition, celebrating countries that excel in cultural offerings, tourism innovation, and sustainable practices. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343009-thailand-named-2025-destination-of-the-year-by-travel-leisure/

to continue: Thailand Live Saturday 9 November 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1343019-thailand-live-saturday-9-november-2024/

Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Pattaya parents outraged after teacher attacks 12 year old boy Pattaya City is in uproar as furious parents of a 12 year old boy from Pattaya City School 2 claim their son was assaulted by his physical education (PE) teacher in a brutal attack that has sparked outrage and calls for immediate action. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343016-pattaya-parents-outraged-after-teacher-attacks-12-year-old-boy/

Stormy weather forecast: Thailand braces for a ‘rain’ of trouble by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Maksym Ivashchenko, Unsplash The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued a warning for potential severe weather conditions affecting 28 provinces, with the southern region facing heavy to very heavy rainfall that could lead to flash floods and forest runoff. Meanwhile, cooler temperatures are expected in northern Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342945-stormy-weather-forecast-thailand-braces-for-a-‘rain’-of-trouble/

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued a warning for potential severe weather conditions affecting 28 provinces, with the southern region facing heavy to very heavy rainfall that could lead to flash floods and forest runoff. Meanwhile, cooler temperatures are expected in northern Thailand. A high-pressure system, originating from China, is currently covering the upper regions of Thailand and the South China Sea. This meteorological pattern is bringing cooler morning temperatures to these areas, with a slight decrease expected in the northeast. Additionally, a westerly wind wave from Myanmar is moving across the upper northern region, combined with a southeasterly wind at higher altitudes over the upper part of Thailand. These conditions are contributing to scattered rain and thunderstorms across the upper north, lower central, and eastern regions. Residents in northern Thailand are advised to take precautions due to the fluctuating weather, and farmers are encouraged to prepare for potential impacts on agricultural production. The monsoon trough is passing over the southern lower part of the country into a low-pressure cell in the lower South China Sea, while a moderate northeast monsoon continues to cover the upper Gulf of Thailand and the upper southern region, resulting in significant rainfall, said a TMD spokesperson. “Residents in the affected areas should be cautious of the dangers posed by heavy to very heavy rain and accumulated rainfall, which may trigger flash floods and forest runoff, particularly in foothill areas near waterways and low-lying regions.” The Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea are experiencing moderate wind conditions, with wave heights reaching 1 to 2 metres in the Gulf and about 1 metre in the Andaman Sea. Thunderstorms may cause waves to exceed 2 metres. Mariners in these areas should exercise caution and avoid sailing in thunderstorm-prone zones. Heavy rainfall The weather forecast for Thailand, from 6am today to 6am tomorrow, indicates cool mornings in the north with scattered rain or thunderstorms affecting 20% of the area, primarily in Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phayao, and Nan. Temperatures are expected to range from a low of 20 to 24°C to a high of 23 to 33°C, with mountain tops experiencing cold weather and temperatures as low as 8 to 15°C. Easterly winds are expected at 10 to 15 kilometres per hour. In the northeastern region, cooler mornings are anticipated, with temperatures dropping slightly. The forecast predicts lows of 18 to 22°C and highs of 29 to 33°C, with mountaintops experiencing cool to cold conditions at temperatures between 11 and 16°C. Northeast winds are expected at speeds of 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. The central region will see cool mornings with isolated rain or thunderstorms affecting 10% of the area, mainly in Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Samut Songkhram, Samut Sakhon, and Nakhon Pathom. Temperatures will range from 22 to 25°C to 30 to 33°C, with northeast winds at 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. Eastern areas are forecast to have isolated rain or thunderstorms covering 10% of the area, mainly in Chon Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat, with temperatures ranging from 23 to 25°C to 32 to 34°C. Northeast winds will blow at 15 to 35 kilometres per hour, with sea waves reaching about 1 metre and 1 to 2 metres offshore. Thunderstorms may cause waves to exceed 2 metres. In the southern region (east coast), thunderstorms are expected in 70% of the area, with heavy to very heavy rainfall in some areas, including Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. Temperatures will range from 22 to 24°C to 29 to 33°C, with northeast winds at 15 to 35 kilometres per hour and wave heights of 1 to 2 metres. Thunderstorms may cause waves to exceed 2 metres. The southern region (west coast) expects thunderstorms in 60% of the area, with some areas experiencing heavy rain, including Phang Nga, Krabi, Trang, and Satun. Temperatures will range from 23 to 25°C to 32 to 34°C, with easterly winds at 15 to 30 kilometres per hour and wave heights of about 1 metre. Thunderstorms may cause waves to exceed 2 metres, reported KhaoSod. In Bangkok and its vicinity, isolated rain or thunderstorms are expected in 10% of the area, with temperatures ranging from 24 to 26°C to 31 to 33°C. Northeast winds are expected at speeds of 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Maksym Ivashchenko, Unsplash Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-08

Baht Slumps as Trump's Victory Strengthens US Dollar Picture courtesy: Kasikorn Research Center The Thai baht reached a two-month low on Thursday, with projections it might dip below 34.5 to the US dollar shortly. This currency pressure follows predictions that the Federal Reserve will maintain higher interest rates longer than anticipated after Donald Trump clinched victory in the recent US election. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342941-baht-slumps-as-trumps-victory-strengthens-us-dollar/

Picture courtesy: Kasikorn Research Center The Thai baht reached a two-month low on Thursday, with projections it might dip below 34.5 to the US dollar shortly. This currency pressure follows predictions that the Federal Reserve will maintain higher interest rates longer than anticipated after Donald Trump clinched victory in the recent US election. According to the Kasikorn Research Center (K-Research), the baht was quoted at 34.34-36 against the dollar, dropping from the prior day's rate of 34.17. A declining yuan has further weighed down the baht. This trend is mirrored in other currencies like the yen, all suffering due to the dollar's surge post-election. Kanjana Chockpisansin, a lead researcher at K-Research, indicates that the baht's depreciation is partly due to anticipated capital outflows from Thailand's bond market. She notes, "The US bond yield rose as Trump's anticipated economic stimulus spending might necessitate bond issuance to finance this significant expenditure." The US dollar's rally is attributed to investors scaling back expectations for the Federal Reserve's interest rate cuts. Previously, markets predicted a further 1% cut by the end of next year, following a 50-basis-point slash in September. K-Research projects that the Fed might trim rates by 25bps in upcoming meetings, suggesting the baht could shift to a 34.70-80 range against the dollar, should rate projections hold true. KGI Securities (Thailand) senior vice-president, Rakpong Chaisuparakul, mentions potential short-term baht depreciation as investors respond to Trump's win. However, he anticipates a market refocus on US economic fundamentals, including a decelerating economy and interest rate reductions. The Fed fund futures forecast predicts the central bank will reduce rates to 4.50% by end-2024, with an additional 50bps cut by 2025, concluding at 4.00%. Despite these forecasts, KGI maintains a perspective of a 100bps reduction by 2025, anticipating a soft landing or slowdown in the US economy next year, according to Mr Rakpong, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-11-08

Trump's Re-election Sparks Fresh Challenges for Thai Economy Donald Trump. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia The re-election of Donald Trump in the 2024 U.S. presidential race is set to alter the global economic landscape, posing new challenges and opportunities for Thai businesses. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342939-trumps-re-election-sparks-fresh-challenges-for-thai-economy/

Donald Trump. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia The re-election of Donald Trump in the 2024 U.S. presidential race is set to alter the global economic landscape, posing new challenges and opportunities for Thai businesses. The Thai National Shippers' Council (TNSC) has highlighted the need for companies, particularly exporters, to swiftly adapt to this changing environment. Under Trump's "America First" policy, the TNSC anticipates a deepening divide between the U.S. and China, the world's two biggest trade blocs. Chaicharn Charoensuk, the TNSC chief, emphasised the importance of Thai businesses remaining agile to navigate potential direct and indirect impacts stemming from these geopolitical shifts. The looming threat of another U.S.-China trade war is of particular concern. Chaicharn suggests that Thailand could benefit if it positions itself as an attractive location for manufacturers seeking to relocate from China. This would involve fostering a pro-investment atmosphere and enhancing Thailand’s role as a regional logistics hub. "Thailand must aim to be a key part of the supply chain moving towards this region, not only within the country but also spanning across ASEAN and India," Chaicharn advised. He also encouraged Thai entrepreneurs to explore new markets to mitigate the effects of potential shifts in U.S. foreign trade policy. For instance, if the Trump administration pivots away from supporting electric vehicles in favour of internal combustion engines, there may be increased opportunities for Thailand to expand its automotive parts exports to the Americas. Chaicharn further stressed the need for careful consideration in future trade negotiations, given the heightened sensitivity due to global power bloc divisions, reported Thae Nation. "Thailand must stay neutral while protecting its market from cheap imports, particularly from China, by employing strict screening and supporting local manufacturers to innovate and reduce costs," he concluded. -- 2024-11-08

Suspect Hunted After Axe Attack in Chalong By Goongnang Suksawat Chalong – Authorities are on the hunt for a suspect who allegedly attacked a man with an axe in Chalong. The Chalong Police informed the Phuket Express on Thursday, November 7th, about the incident. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342938-suspect-hunted-after-axe-attack-in-chalong/

Chalong – Authorities are on the hunt for a suspect who allegedly attacked a man with an axe in Chalong. The Chalong Police informed the Phuket Express on Thursday, November 7th, about the incident. The suspect, identified only as Mr. Thee, 37, used an axe to attack an unidentified male victim in Soi Khok Tanod on the weekend of November 2nd. The victim sustained severe injuries, including neck wounds. Police investigations revealed that Thee is originally from Satun. The victim had met Thee on a bus and invited him to work in Phuket, providing him with a place to live. However, the victim later discovered that Thee was using illegal drugs and subsequently chased him out of his house, leaving Thee homeless for about two months. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS -- 2024-11-08

Chachoengsao courier delivers 6-foot mattress on motorcycle (video) by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A delivery rider found himself in a humorous predicament when tasked with transporting a 6-foot mattress on his motorcycle. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342936-chachoengsao-courier-delivers-6-foot-mattress-on-motorcycle-video/

A delivery rider found himself in a humorous predicament when tasked with transporting a 6-foot mattress on his motorcycle. The unexpected delivery, which took place yesterday, November 6, in Chachoengsao province, left the customer so impressed by the courier’s determination that he tipped the rider several hundred baht. The delivery took place on Suwinthawong Road, just before the Khlong Luang Pheng Bridge in the city of Chachoengsao. A reporter, noticing a motorcycle carrying a large white object, discovered it was a six-foot mattress. The courier, an employee of a private delivery service, was en route to deliver the mattress to a customer in Village 7, Khlong Luang Pheng subdistrict. The delivery rider, 24 year old Natthawut recounted that he first thought it amusing when he saw the mattress tied to the back of the delivery truck. “I assumed one of my colleagues would have to handle the delivery. But when the packages were sorted, it turned out to be on my route.” Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Despite the humorous start, the delivery was not far, just 2 to 3 kilometres from the warehouse. The customer, 52 year old Samun, had purchased the mattress through an online app after a significant price reduction, dropping from 4,900 baht to 2,456 baht, with no delivery charge. Initially, the delivery worker called to ask Samun if she could collect it from the warehouse due to its size. Without a vehicle, Samun requested the delivery to her home, not expecting the worker to arrive on a motorcycle. “I really didn’t expect him to deliver it like that. I was impressed by his effort to bring a 6-foot mattress on a motorcycle.” Natthawut explained that he usually makes deliveries on his motorcycle, and although the mattress was an unusually large delivery, he was committed to delivering it on time, reported KhaoSod. With the help of friends, he managed to secure the mattress on the back of his motorcycle using ropes, then carefully rode to the customer’s residence. “I only received 8 baht for this delivery from the system. However, the customer was generous and gave me an additional 300 baht tip, thanking me for my perseverance. They seemed quite surprised I managed to bring such a large item on my bike.” by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-08

Maid Receives 235-Year Sentence for Massive Gold Thefts in Thailand File photo for reference only. Source: Wikipedia In a stunning case of serial theft, a maid has been sentenced to 235 years in prison for pilfering gold ornaments valued at approximately 25 million baht from her employer's shop in Khon Kaen's Ban Pai district. The audacious crimes transpired over two years, shaking the small community. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342931-maid-receives-235-year-sentence-for-massive-gold-thefts-in-thailand/

File photo for reference only. Source: Wikipedia In a stunning case of serial theft, a maid has been sentenced to 235 years in prison for pilfering gold ornaments valued at approximately 25 million baht from her employer's shop in Khon Kaen's Ban Pai district. The audacious crimes transpired over two years, shaking the small community. The shop owner recounted the initial suspicion that sparked the investigation. Two months ago, a gold necklace conspicuously slipped from the maid's apron pocket, prompting immediate concern. The maid, identified as Somjit Khumduang, initially dismissed the incident as accidental, claiming the necklace may have fallen into her pocket. However, her employer's unease led to a thorough review of security footage. Examinations revealed a jaw-dropping 47 instances of theft since 2021, exposing a pattern of deceit that left the shop owner reeling. The accumulated value of the stolen gold jewellery was an eye-watering 25 million baht, a figure that underscored the severity of the crimes committed. Further investigations unveiled a trail of lavish purchases by Ms Somjit, who had been employed at the shop for around 10 years. Her newfound wealth financed land acquisitions, as well as a conspicuous display of luxury on her social media, where she flaunted a new motorcycle and jewellery. Despite repeated pleas from her employer to return the stolen valuables, only a fraction - roughly 7 million baht worth - was ever recovered. The hefty prison sentence reflects the scale and brazenness of her thefts, bringing a dramatic end to the trust once placed in a long-term member of staff. The case sends a strong message about the consequences of betrayal and dishonesty, transcending national boundaries and engaging international interest. -- 2024-11-08

Bangkok bombshell: Thai woman walks as Erawan Shrine case crumbles by Bob Scott Picture of Wanna Suansan (left) and her lawyer courtesy of AP A Thai court sent shockwaves throughout the capital of Bangkok after clearing Thai woman Wanna Suansan of charges related to the devastating 2015 Erawan Shrine bombing that claimed 20 lives and injured 120 others. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342923-bangkok-bombshell-thai-woman-walks-as-erawan-shrine-case-crumbles/