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Foreign Tourist Stuns Onlookers by Strolling Naked Through Phuket Hotel Picture courtesy of โหดจัง จังหวัดภูเก็ต Facebook page A Facebook page called โหดจัง จังหวัดภูเก็ต (Hodjang Phuket Province) on December 7, posted photos of a foreign tourist walking completely naked through a hotel in Patong, on Thaweewong Road, Kathu District, Phuket. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345615-foreign-tourist-stuns-onlookers-by-strolling-naked-through-phuket-hotel/

Uzbek Woman Falls from 6th Floor of Pattaya Hotel, Police Investigate Incident A 25-year-old woman from Uzbekistan suffered serious injuries after falling from the 6th floor of a hotel in the South Pattaya area. Her friend, who was staying with her in the same room, was found to be heavily intoxicated. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345618-uzbek-woman-falls-from-6th-floor-of-pattaya-hotel-police-investigate-incident/

to continue: Thailand Live Monday 9 December 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1345669-thailand-live-monday-9-december-2024/

Chonburi officials joined forces with Pattaya police to conduct a surprise raid at a Pattaya nightclub, uncovering drugs scattered on the floor and detaining 54 individuals who tested positive for drug use. Authorities and Police Storm Pattaya Club, Drugs and Positive Tests Found in Large Numbers Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345645-authorities-and-police-storm-pattaya-club-drugs-and-positive-tests-found-in-large-numbers/

Foreign Pilot Approval Raises Concerns for Thai Aviation A contentious decision by the Thai government to temporarily allow foreign pilots to fly domestic routes is sparking debate within the country's aviation sector. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345580-foreign-pilot-approval-raises-concerns-for-thai-aviation/

File photo courtesy: Wikipedia A contentious decision by the Thai government to temporarily allow foreign pilots to fly domestic routes is sparking debate within the country's aviation sector. This policy, based on wet lease contracts, has been introduced ostensibly to address a purported pilot shortage as Thailand eagerly anticipates a boom in tourism. However, the Thai Pilots Association argues that this measure might inadvertently undermine the local pilot community and related industries. The cabinet's recent move grants foreign pilots the right to operate within Thailand for a six-month period. Teerawat Angkasakulkiat, president of the Thai Pilots Association, is challenging this decision, asserting that it contravenes existing laws. "Pilot" is listed among occupations barred to foreigners, and Mr. Teerawat insists that there is, in fact, no shortage of local pilots to justify the measure. Statistics from the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand bolster his claim; as of 2023, the nation boasted 3,024 commercial pilots. During the downturn caused by the pandemic, roughly 1,026 pilots faced layoffs, yet more than 1,200 freshly licensed commercial pilot school graduates are in queue for employment, awaiting opportunities within domestic airlines. Mr. Teerawat warns that the influx of foreign pilots could discourage young Thais from pursuing careers in aviation, potentially leading them towards other occupations deemed more secure. This shift could weaken Thailand's standing and competitiveness in the global aviation marketplace. A deep dive into the implications reveals further layers of concern. The Thai Pilot's Association contends that the decision deviates from the national labour strategy, particularly a segment focused on future industries. Moreover, the association is apprehensive about possible ripple effects in related sectors, including agriculture, where foreign operation of drones may become feasible. In response, Mr. Teerawat is urging the Transport Ministry to restrict Thai airlines from engaging in such wet lease contracts unless the governing regulations align with international standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The current framework does not reflect ICAO’s Universal Safety Oversight Audit Program’s protocols, and with Thailand's scheduled ICAO audit slated for the third quarter next year, there is a real risk of receiving another red flag, echoing the country's 2015 experience. The debate is a pivotal one, spotlighting the tensions between short-term economic strategy and long-term industry stability. It remains to be seen how the Thai government will balance these competing priorities in the face of mounting industry pressure and international scrutiny. -- 2024-12-07

Thailand Vigilant Amidst 'Disease X' Outbreak in Africa File photo Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health has heightened its surveillance in response to an outbreak of an unidentified infectious disease, dubbed 'Disease X,' in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345569-thailand-vigilant-amidst-disease-x-outbreak-in-africa/

Pheu Thai Pushes Bold Anti-Coup Legislation in Thailand Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Thailand's ruling Pheu Thai Party is spearheading a campaign to introduce anti-coup legislation aimed at curbing military power in the political sphere. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345566-pheu-thai-pushes-bold-anti-coup-legislation-in-thailand/

File photo Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health has heightened its surveillance in response to an outbreak of an unidentified infectious disease, dubbed 'Disease X,' in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). While Thailand remains considered low-risk for an outbreak, officials have been urged to exercise increased vigilance nationwide. Permanent Secretary of the Public Health Ministry, Opas Kankawinpong, has issued a directive for all health agencies in Thailand to be on high alert. This precautionary step primarily focuses on entry points such as border control stations and airports, where travellers might potentially bring the disease into the country. Airports like Suvarnabhumi have not yet implemented specific measures against the threat, but are on standby for any necessary actions. In contrast, Hong Kong International Airport has already enhanced its screening procedures for incoming flights from African transit points. Similarly, Japan has advised its citizens to avoid non-essential travel to the affected areas. In DRC, local health officials expect to determine the cause of the outbreak within a few days. Currently, nearly 200 out of the 376 people stricken by a flu-like illness are children under five years old, according to Jean Kaseya of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC). Symptoms are consistent with fever, headache, cough, difficulty breathing, and anaemia, first reported in late October in Kwango’s Panzi health zone. Kaseya pointed out that the delay in recognising the outbreak was significant, up to six weeks, during which the disease could have spread extensively. Health experts believe the disease might be airborne, emerging amidst a period of high influenza circulation. Diagnostic efforts are ongoing, with specimens analysed in Kinshasa's national lab, located roughly 500 kilometres from the outbreak's epicentre. Results from these tests are expected imminently, possibly by the weekend. The emergence of 'Disease X' has reignited concerns about a new global health threat, potentially mirroring the restrictive impacts experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic. The international community remains watchful following recent global health alerts, such as WHO's emergency declaration over a new mpox strain. While its spread outside Africa has been minimal, the international community remains on high alert to effectively contain any new, potentially pandemic-level pathogens, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-07

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Thailand's ruling Pheu Thai Party is spearheading a campaign to introduce anti-coup legislation aimed at curbing military power in the political sphere. This move comes as part of a broader strategy to safeguard the nation's democracy by preventing any future military coups, which have historically disrupted Thailand’s political landscape. The party, guided by its influential leader Thaksin Shinawatra, who was himself ousted in the 2006 coup, is determined to ensure such events do not recur. This legislative push also serves as a response to the 2014 coup that saw Thaksin’s sister, former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, removed from office. The proposed legislation is set to amend the Ministry of Defence's Bureaucratic Act, thus enabling military personnel, irrespective of their rank, to lawfully refuse orders that could lead to a coup. This would shield soldiers from potential disciplinary or criminal charges, thereby reducing the influence of rogue military commanders. Another significant component of the draft legislation involves transferring key military appointment powers to the civilian government. The existing system allows the Defence Ministry, currently under the leadership of Phumtham Wechayachai, a close ally of Thaksin, to oversee promotions and appointments of army generals, navy admirals, and air marshals. Moving forward, the aim is to allow the cabinet, headed by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Thaksin’s daughter, greater control over these decisions. By shifting these responsibilities, the government hopes to eliminate the personal biases and nepotism that have historically played a role in the military's decision-making processes. Critics argue that the absence of such checks has often facilitated conditions ripe for military coups. Public sentiment appears largely favourable towards these reforms. In recent public hearings organised by Pheu Thai, a substantial 89% of 11,230 participants supported the legislative measures, underscoring strong public backing for curbing military intervention in politics. The anti-coup bill is expected to be tabled in the parliament soon, reflecting Pheu Thai's commitment to reinforcing democratic governance in Thailand. However, it is sure to face intense scrutiny and debate, not only from legislators with military affiliations but also from opposition parties, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-12-07

Police Checkpoints Must Adhere to Protocol, Says Thai Police Chief Picture courtesy: Siam Rath In light of a recent incident where seven traffic police officers allegedly assaulted an individual at a checkpoint, the Thai National Police has been urged to ensure that all checkpoints across the country operate within established protocols. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345574-police-checkpoints-must-adhere-to-protocol-says-thai-police-chief/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath In light of a recent incident where seven traffic police officers allegedly assaulted an individual at a checkpoint, the Thai National Police has been urged to ensure that all checkpoints across the country operate within established protocols. Following an alleged assault at a police checkpoint, the Thai National Police Chief has ordered all checkpoints nationwide to comply strictly with protocols. The incident involved seven traffic officers, who now face preliminary charges while further investigations continue. The case is being overseen by senior police officials, who are collecting evidence from CCTV, body cameras, and witness testimonies to ensure a fair and transparent process. The Police Chief expressed regret over the incident and promised thorough actions against any wrongdoing, aiming to prevent recurrence and maintain public order. Progress in the case includes preliminary charges against the involved officers, with further inquiries underway to assess additional offences. Disciplinary investigations have also been initiated. Pol. Lt. Gen. Achiyon Kraithong, police spokesperson, expressed the organisation's regret over the incident affecting the victim and their family. He assured that the case would proceed transparently and without bias. If criminal or disciplinary violations are confirmed, stringent action will be taken, including administrative measures against commanding officers. The National Police Chief has reiterated the importance of compliance with regulations and tactical procedures for police checkpoints nationwide, aiming to prevent such incidents from recurring and uphold public order effectively, reported Siam Rath. -- 2024-12-07

Thai E-Cigarette Debate Sparks Health Experts' Outrage The House special committee on e-cigarettes has caused an uproar by suggesting three controversial proposals: maintaining a complete ban, legalizing heated tobacco products (HTPs), or approving all types of e-cigarettes. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345550-thai-e-cigarette-debate-sparks-health-experts-outrage/

Cop with a cause: Chon Buri officer’s goodwill patrol warms hearts By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Pattaya News For the past eight years, a Chon Buri police officer has been a silent hero, making waves with his goodwill philanthropic gestures across the Klong Phlu subdistrict. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345524-cop-with-a-cause-chon-buri-officer’s-goodwill-patrol-warms-hearts/

Warning issued on eve of White Lotus series in Thailand - video By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Variety As legions of White Lotus fans eagerly await the much-anticipated third series of the smash hit HBO drama, a gripping warning emerges from the exotic shores of Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345547-warning-issued-on-eve-of-white-lotus-series-in-thailand-video/

to continue: Thailand Live Saturday 7 December 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1345545-thailand-live-saturday-7-december-2024/

File photo courtesy: Matichon Danish Prisoner in Thailand Warns Against Drug Crimes John, a 55-year-old Danish man, shares his grim experiences from a Thai prison, where he is serving a sentence of over five years for drug charges, urging others to heed his warning. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345544-danish-prisoner-in-thailand-warns-against-drug-crimes/

File photo courtesy: Matichon John, a 55-year-old Danish man, shares his grim experiences from a Thai prison, where he is serving a sentence of over five years for drug charges, urging others to heed his warning. John was arrested in early 2021 for possessing cannabis and over nine grams of methamphetamine. Originally sentenced to 28 years, his term was reduced to just over five years following appeals and changes in laws. Speaking to the DR programme Kriminelt, John recounts daily struggles in a cramped cell shared with around 60 inmates, the constant noise of Thai TV shows, and the suffocating monotony of prison life, all of which have taken a toll on his well-being. The number of Danes jailed in Asia for drug-related crimes has more than doubled this year, with 15 currently imprisoned in the region. John's case highlights the severe penalties and isolation faced by foreigners under strict local drug laws. Beyond the physical confinement, he faces legal and financial obstacles, including a substantial 72,000 kroner fine (220K baht) that hinders his efforts to transfer to a Danish prison, reported .Karoline Rosenkrantz Paasch for ScandAsia. John regrets his past actions and urges others to reflect on the potential consequences of engaging in criminal activities abroad. "I didn’t realise the risk was so high or that it could end so badly," he admits. His message is a stark reminder of the realities of foreign prisons and the seriousness of drug laws outside Denmark. The Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs has noted the rise in such cases but hasn’t responded specifically to John's situation. Meanwhile, DR News awaits comments from the Thai embassy in Denmark. -- 2024-12-07

Rain check: Thailand provinces brace for a flood of trouble by Nattapong Westwood File photo Weather conditions across Thailand prompted warnings for heavy rain and potential flash floods in 10 provinces, with Bangkok experiencing morning fog and a minimum temperature of 24 degrees Celsius. T Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345494-rain-check-thailand-provinces-brace-for-a-flood-of-trouble/

File photo by Nattapong Westwood Weather conditions across Thailand prompted warnings for heavy rain and potential flash floods in 10 provinces, with Bangkok experiencing morning fog and a minimum temperature of 24 degrees Celsius. The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) reported that the northeast monsoon, covering the Gulf of Thailand and the southern region, has weakened. Meanwhile, a low-pressure area near the Strait of Malacca is expected to move towards Sumatra, resulting in reduced rainfall in the lower south but maintaining heavy showers in certain areas. Residents in these regions are advised to stay alert to the dangers of heavy rain and accumulated precipitation. The weather conditions could lead to sudden flooding, forest runoff, and overflowing rivers, especially in hilly areas near waterways and low-lying regions. Additionally, the southern Gulf of Thailand is experiencing waves of 1 to 2 meters, with even higher waves during thunderstorms. As a precaution, sailors in these areas are advised to avoid navigating during stormy conditions. High-pressure systems or cold air masses covering northern Thailand are weakening, leading to morning fog, especially in the northern and northeastern regions. Despite this, these areas will continue to experience cool morning temperatures. On the mountain peaks and plateaus, temperatures are expected to be cold to very cold, ranging from 10 to 17 degrees Celsius. Residents are encouraged to maintain their health amid changing weather conditions and be cautious of fire hazards due to the dry weather. Travellers should also be vigilant when passing through foggy areas. Air pollution levels in northern Thailand are on the rise, with dust and haze increasing from moderate to high levels due to the weakened winds over the region. The weather forecast for Thailand, from today until tomorrow morning, indicates that the northern region will have cool weather with morning fog, a slight increase in temperature, and isolated light rain. Weather forecast The minimum temperatures are expected to range from 20 to 22 degrees Celsius, with maximums between 32 and 35 degrees Celsius. Winds from the east are forecasted to blow at speeds of 5 to 15 kilometres per hour. In the northeastern region, cool weather with light morning fog is expected, along with a slight increase in temperature. Minimum temperatures will range from 18 to 21 degrees Celsius, with maximums from 32 to 33 degrees Celsius. Mountain areas will experience cold to very cold conditions, with minimum temperatures between 12 and 17 degrees Celsius. Northeasterly winds are expected to blow at 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. The central region is expected to have light fog in the morning with a slight increase in temperature. The minimum temperatures will range from 22 to 24 degrees Celsius, with maximums from 33 to 35 degrees Celsius. Northeasterly winds will blow at speeds of 10 to 15 kilometres per hour. In eastern Thailand, light morning fog and a slight temperature rise are expected, with minimum temperatures between 21 and 25 degrees Celsius and maximums from 33 to 35 degrees Celsius. Northeasterly winds will blow at 15 to 30 kilometres per hour, with sea waves below 1 meter and approximately 1 metre offshore. The southern region on the east coast will see thunderstorms covering 40% of the area, with heavy rain in provinces such as Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. Minimum temperatures will range from 23 to 25 degrees Celsius, with maximums from 30 to 34 degrees Celsius. In Nakhon Si Thammarat and further north, northeasterly winds will blow at 15 to 30 kilometres per hour, with sea waves approximately 1 metre high, rising to 1 to 2 meters during thunderstorms. In Songkhla and further south, winds will blow at 15 to 35 kilometres per hour, with sea waves of 1 to 2 meters and higher during storms. The southern region on the west coast will have thunderstorms covering 30% of the area, with heavy rain in provinces such as Krabi, Trang, and Satun. Minimum temperatures will range from 23 to 25 degrees Celsius, with maximums from 31 to 33 degrees Celsius. Easterly winds will blow at 15 to 30 kilometres per hour, with sea waves approximately 1 metre high, rising to over 2 meters during thunderstorms, reported KhaoSod. Bangkok and its surrounding areas will experience light morning fog with a slight increase in temperature. The minimum temperatures will range from 24 to 25 degrees Celsius, with maximums from 33 to 36 degrees Celsius. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-06

New M9 motorway to connect Bangkok districts in 2029 by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Money and Banking The Cabinet has given the green light for a significant new infrastructure project: a 35-kilometre M9 motorway aiming to connect Bangkok’s Bang Khunthian district with Bang Bua Thong district in Nonthaburi. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345482-new-m9-motorway-to-connect-bangkok-districts-in-2029/

Picture courtesy of Money and Banking by Bright Choomanee The Cabinet has given the green light for a significant new infrastructure project: a 35-kilometre M9 motorway aiming to connect Bangkok’s Bang Khunthian district with Bang Bua Thong district in Nonthaburi. Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit announced this development, highlighting its potential to alleviate traffic congestion on Kanchanaphisek Road’s western side and enhance connectivity with Bangkok’s network of outer ring roads. Advertisements This ambitious undertaking involves a substantial 47.5 billion baht (US$1.4 billion)investment through a public-private partnership (PPP) model. The chosen investment format, known as PPP Net Cost, allows the selected private partner—determined through a bidding process—to invest primarily in the motorway’s construction. In return, the partner will have the right to collect toll fees for three decades following the motorway’s opening, projected to occur in about four years. The bidding process is expected to commence late next year, with the contract anticipated to be signed in the latter half of 2026. The motorway is slated for completion and opening in 2029. The government plans to share the financial burden of both land expropriation, estimated at 4.25 billion baht (US$124 million), and the construction costs with the private partner. Approximately 33 rai of land will need to be expropriated for this project. The government has committed to contributing its share of the investment through annual instalments over at least 15 years from the M9 motorway’s opening. Designed with six lanes, the M9 will feature eight entrances, six exits, and five separated intersections. An automatic toll collection system will be in place to streamline operations and enhance user experience. For four-wheeled vehicles, the initial toll will be set at 10 baht (US$0.3), with an additional charge of 1.5 baht (US$0.04) per kilometre. Six-wheeled trucks will incur a starting fee of 15 baht (US$0.4) and 2.40 baht (US$0.07) per kilometre thereafter. Vehicles larger than six-wheeled trucks will face a starting fee of 25 baht (US$0.7) and 3.45 baht (US$0.1) per kilometre. These toll rates are subject to review and potential adjustment every five years, reported Bangkok Post. The motorway project is expected to yield significant economic benefits by reducing transport and logistical costs, shortening travel times, and fostering economic growth. It will support the expansion of the manufacturing sector and generate employment opportunities, contributing positively to the region’s economy. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-06

Over 1,000 detained in Thai nominee crackdown on foreign businesses by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Wassayos Ngamkham Police intensified their crackdown on the use of Thai nominees by foreign businesses, resulting in the detention of over 1,000 individuals over recent weeks. This sweeping operation was a joint effort by police and the Ministry of Commerce, targeting companies engaging in illicit business practices. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345481-over-1000-detained-in-thai-nominee-crackdown-on-foreign-businesses/

Picture courtesy of Wassayos Ngamkham by Bright Choomanee Police intensified their crackdown on the use of Thai nominees by foreign businesses, resulting in the detention of over 1,000 individuals over recent weeks. This sweeping operation was a joint effort by police and the Ministry of Commerce, targeting companies engaging in illicit business practices. Investigations focused on 442 companies, collectively handling over 3.6 billion baht (US$105 million), across 46 locations nationwide. The Central Investigation Bureau’s (CIB) commissioner, Jirabhop Bhuridej, highlighted the scale of the operation, emphasising the collaboration with the Department of Business Development (DBD) within the Ministry of Commerce. Among those detained were: 714 Thais 258 Chinese 21 Malaysians 4 Cambodians 4 Vietnamese 3 Britons 3 Germans 2 Japanese 2 Myanmar nationals 1 American 1 Singaporean 1 Kazakhstani These individuals were implicated in businesses registered by Thais acting as proxies for foreign nationals, despite restrictions that reserve certain business activities for Thai citizens. “The businesses involved held assets worth 254 million baht (US$7.4 million), and investigations revealed they employed law or accounting firms to manage their registrations,” explained Jirabhop. This elaborate setup was part of a broader scheme where some companies were merely fronts for laundering money, without engaging in legitimate business operations. Further inquiries uncovered warehouses filled with goods, many of which were prohibited from import. Some businesses were linked to currency trading, adding another layer of complexity to the investigation. Napintorn Srisanpang, Deputy Commerce Minister, noted the operation stemmed from an agreement between the police and the DBD to scrutinize Thai nominees. He called upon Thai citizens to act as proxies to cooperate with police, allowing them to be treated as witnesses. Additionally, legal and accounting professionals found complicit in these activities will face scrutiny from their respective regulatory bodies, reported Bangkok Post. “The use of Thai proxies not only undermines the economy but poses a significant threat to national security,” stated Deputy Police Chief Thatchai Pitaneelabutr. He stressed the severity of the issue, particularly when these firms are linked to call centre scams or drug trafficking networks. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-06 -- 2024-12-06

Dual Pricing in Thai Tourism: Economic Necessity or Hidden Bias? FILE photo for reference only ANALYSIS Thailand's dual pricing policy, where foreign tourists often pay more than locals at attractions, sparks ongoing conversation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345479-dual-pricing-in-thai-tourism-economic-necessity-or-hidden-bias/