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Thailand's ageing population poses significant structural challenges, according to Varawut Silpa-archa, Minister of Social Development and Human Security. Speaking at the "Thailand Strategy and Government Challenges" Forum in Bangkok on Thursday, he outlined the imminent issues and necessary measures. Currently, 20% of Thailand's population is elderly, classifying it as an "Aged Society." Within the next 10 to 15 years, the nation is expected to transition to a "Super-Aged Society" similarly to Japan, with an ageing rate projected at 30%. This shift is driven by a low birth rate, averaging 500,000 births annually and an average of just one child per woman—lagging behind even Japan's figures. The condition surfaces multiple family and societal changes. "The structure of Thai families is shifting," said Varawut. He explained that smaller families and fewer children result in diminishing intergenerational support. Traditional family roles weaken, leading to more single-parent households and elderly individuals living alone. This creates a burden on the working-age population, who must look after children, themselves, and ageing parents simultaneously. In five to ten years, today's 50-59-year-olds will themselves be elderly, with responsibilities for parents over 80 years old. This demographic change hints at deep economic ramifications. The national population is forecasted to drop from 70 million to 58.26 million within 25 years. Coupled with the shrinking workforce, this signifies potential for increased social support expenditures, which could strain government budgets. Varawut announced that the Ministry has introduced a "5x5 Policy" to tackle the crisis, approved by the Cabinet on April 2, 2024. The policy emphasises five strategies, each with five key measures, aimed at adjusting to these challenges: 1. Empowering the working-age population to form and sustain families. 2. Enhancing child quality through life skills and development. 3. Leveraging the elderly's experience for societal and economic contribution. 4. Creating opportunities and value for people with disabilities. 5. Establishing a supportive environment for family life and sustainability. "Our approach aims to leave no one behind, using various strategies to harness untapped potential across all demographics," Varawut emphasised. He concluded by urging the media to help drive Thai society toward sustainable stability. Picture courtesy: Thai population online -- 2024-07-06 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Election Commission Urged to Nullify Senate Race Over Alleged Rigging File photo courtesy: Wikipedia The Election Commission (EC) was today urged to annul last month’s senatorial election due to alleged pre-planned electoral rigging, particularly centred in Buriram. Defeated candidate Patrapong Supaksa filed a formal complaint, requesting an immediate cancellation and subsequent new election. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331646-election-commission-urged-to-nullify-senate-race-over-alleged-rigging/

The Election Commission (EC) was today urged to annul last month’s senatorial election due to alleged pre-planned electoral rigging, particularly centred in Buriram. Defeated candidate Patrapong Supaksa filed a formal complaint, requesting an immediate cancellation and subsequent new election. Patrapong claims that 14 elected senators from Buriram, aligned with the Bhumjaithai Party, under the leadership of Newin Chidchob, were embroiled in rigging plots. He argues that many falsely declared their professional backgrounds, essential for the diverse representation mandated by Thailand's 20-category profession system. According to Patrapong, several senators claimed affiliations with professions they do not truthfully practice, violating legal prerequisites for candidacy. This misrepresentation allegedly facilitated bloc-vote rigging. The EC has postponed the ratification of all 200 senators-designate and 100 reserves while investigating the claims. The crux of the allegations involves unnamed political operatives linked to Bhumjaithai, who orchestrated these riggings. It is alleged that certain candidates received clandestine voting instructions during prior hotel meetings before the final election stage on June 26. Despite these accusations, the EC might proceed with ratifying the senators soon. Those found to have breached election laws could face judicial suspension from their legislative duties. This unfolding situation casts a spotlight on Thailand's electoral integrity, particularly the role of political machinations in shaping legislative bodies. Should the claims hold, it could lead to significant reforms or rerun elections, aiming for true representation and restoring public confidence. Patrapong’s push for annulment underscores a broader call for transparency and fairness in Thailand's democracy. Observers will closely watch the EC's next moves, which could set crucial precedents for future elections. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-07-06 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Bhumjaithai Party Advisor Seeks Caution on Cannabis Reclassification Picture courtesy: Daily News Mr. Supachai Jaisamut, advisor to Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, voiced concerns during a seminar on the future of cannabis in Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331644-bhumjaithai-party-advisor-seeks-caution-on-cannabis-reclassification/

Mr. Supachai Jaisamut, advisor to Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, voiced concerns during a seminar on the future of cannabis in Thailand. As the former chairman of the committee responsible for the Cannabis and Hemp Act, Supachai reiterated that the Bhumjaithai Party remains steadfast in its initial ideology. The party has consistently aimed to ensure that cannabis benefits citizens, particularly in medical, health, and economic applications. Supachai underscored the party's commitment, highlighting their efforts to regulate THC extract levels to be no more than 0.2%. He questioned the rationale behind suggestions to reclassify cannabis as a narcotic, emphasising that any such move should be backed by substantial justification. He noted that the Bhumjaithai Party's actions are rooted in public benefit and the responsibilities they hold as representatives. The party's work on cannabis legislation aims to serve the people, and any notion of internal conflict is misplaced. Echoing the party's dedication, Supachai believes the duty of overseeing cannabis should remain aligned with their principles. He reaffirmed that party leader Anutin Charnvirakul and the members remain firm in their stance on cannabis. Despite speculation, the party consistently advocates for the voices of the public. Despite the looming threat of cannabis being reclassified as a narcotic, Supachai stressed that such a move would neither resolve the underlying issues nor respect the voices of the approximately 5 million users. Supachai lamented that politics had stalled progress on cannabis legislation but expressed readiness to continue the fight. He remains hopeful that with appropriate legal controls, cannabis can transition back to a legal status, benefiting sectors like medicine, industry, and the economy. In his concluding remarks, Supachai urged all parties to move past biases and focus on public welfare, centred on the benefits that a regulated cannabis industry could provide. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-07-06 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya Contractors Finally Make Headway on Delayed Sukhumvit Road Projects Picture courtesy: Facebook สายตรงนายกเมืองพัทยา After months of delays and public frustration, much-awaited roadworks on four major intersections of Sukhumvit Road in Pattaya have seen significant progress. This includes the completion of the notoriously stalled projects at Motorway Intersection and North Pattaya Intersection. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331643-pattaya-contractors-finally-make-headway-on-delayed-sukhumvit-road-projects/

After months of delays and public frustration, much-awaited roadworks on four major intersections of Sukhumvit Road in Pattaya have seen significant progress. This includes the completion of the notoriously stalled projects at Motorway Intersection and North Pattaya Intersection. The upgrades, initially slated to wrap up by February 2024, hit unforeseen snags, dragging completion well beyond original estimates. Contractors have cited heavy rains and city-ordered pauses to accommodate public events as primary causes for these delays. In response to mounting discontent, Pattaya City enforced a steep penalty, fining contractors 114,125 baht daily for failing to stick to the timeline. Local drivers and tourists have borne the brunt of the prolonged constructions, enduring traffic disruptions that have plagued the city since April 2023. While recent advancements have been met with relief, lingering concerns remain. Residents are uneasy about the road quality in some places, pointing out uneven surfaces and unfinished footpaths. Pattaya’s mayor has unofficially conveyed that significant milestones have been reached, especially at the Motorway and North Pattaya Intersections. Despite this, the city is prepping for a public press conference to address these ongoing issues comprehensively. Town officials aim to reassure citizens of their commitment to completing the remaining sections efficiently and to a high standard. The community remains vigilant, eager to see proof that their day-to-day will no longer be impeded by sluggish roadworks. With the finish line seemingly in sight, time will tell if the final touches will align with public expectations and bring an end to what has been a vexing chapter for Pattaya's road infrastructure. Picture courtesy: Facebook สายตรงนายกเมืองพัทยา -- 2024-07-06 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Domestic Travel Plummets, Only 57% Plan Local Holidays Picture courtesy: Wikimedia A recent survey has unveiled a sharp decline in domestic travel intentions among Thai citizens, with only 57% planning holidays within the country for the third quarter of this year. This marks a significant decrease from 64% in the previous quarter and a steep fall from 74% at the beginning of the year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331642-thai-domestic-travel-plummets-only-57-plan-local-holidays/

A recent survey has unveiled a sharp decline in domestic travel intentions among Thai citizens, with only 57% planning holidays within the country for the third quarter of this year. This marks a significant decrease from 64% in the previous quarter and a steep fall from 74% at the beginning of the year. Conducted by the Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT), the survey encompassed 450 Thai nationals earning over 10,000 baht per month. Results showed a striking drop in average spending per person on domestic trips to 2,683 baht in the second quarter, compared to 6,856 baht in the first quarter. Interestingly, the average number of hotel nights per person increased to 4.79 nights in the second quarter, up from 3.38 nights in the first quarter, though projections for the third quarter suggest a slight dip to 4.55 nights. Regarding international travel, the survey found that 16% of respondents plan to travel abroad in the third quarter, consistent with the previous quarter but significantly lower than the 23% reported in the first quarter. The reasons behind this downturn in travel plans are evident: 80% of respondents cited the strain of higher living costs and debt, while 58% pointed to increased travel expenses compared to pre-pandemic times. TCT President Chamnan Srisawat remarked that these survey findings mirror a decline in the tourism business confidence index, which fell to 79 in the second quarter from 81 in the first quarter, though it remains higher than the 72 recorded in the same period last year. Factors contributing to this decline include the off-peak season in the second quarter, despite the April Songkran festival, and limited impact from government economic stimulus efforts. Looking forward, TCT anticipates the confidence index to further decline to 75 in the third quarter. Srisawat also noted that the Thai economy is grappling with reduced purchasing power and unemployment stemming from factory closures, which could lead to increased household debts and non-performing loans, further impacting the domestic tourism sector. Picture courtesy: Wikimedia -- 2024-07-06 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Prachuap Khiri Khan ranks 4th for Malaria infections in Thailand By Online Reporter The Provincial Public Health Office has convened a task force to expedite malaria eradication efforts, aiming to monitor the situation closely and effectively control the outbreak. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331640-prachuap-khiri-khan-ranks-4th-for-malaria-infections-in-thailand/

The Provincial Public Health Office has convened a task force to expedite malaria eradication efforts, aiming to monitor the situation closely and effectively control the outbreak. On July 3, 2024 at the Ratchapakdi Meeting Room of the Prachuap Khiri Khan Provincial Public Health Office, Mr. Somkid Jantamrot, the Governor of the province, assigned Mr. Kittiphong Sukhpakul, Deputy Governor, to chair the malaria eradication task force meeting. In attendance were Mr. Samran Pengsawat, Deputy Provincial Public Health Doctor, heads of government departments, civil servants, and other related parties. Thailand has reported 8,236 cases of malaria this year, a slight decrease of 0.28% compared to the same period last year. The provinces with the highest numbers of cases are: Tak: 3,605 cases (46.2%) Kanchanaburi: 1,034 cases (12.6%) Mae Hong Son: 886 cases (10.7%) Prachuap Khiri Khan: 855 cases (10.3%) Ratchaburi: 455 cases (5.5%) By Online Reporter Full story: HUA HIN TODAY 2024-07-06 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Chaos in Pattaya: Motorbike taxi drivers tarnish tourist hotspot by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Pattaya City and Banglamung district officials are grappling with a surge in incidents involving motorcycle taxi drivers, jeopardising the area’s status as a top tourist destination. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331638-chaos-in-pattaya-motorbike-taxi-drivers-tarnish-tourist-hotspot/

Pattaya City and Banglamung district officials are grappling with a surge in incidents involving motorcycle taxi drivers, jeopardising the area’s status as a top tourist destination. Disturbing reports have surfaced, highlighting assaults on foreign tourists and harassment of individuals mistaken for ride-hailing service drivers. These altercations have frequently escalated into heated verbal confrontations and even physical violence. In response to the growing concerns, Banglamung District Chief Weerakit Manarojkit convened an urgent meeting yesterday, July 4 to tackle the escalating issues. According to regulations implemented in 2020, Banglamung district boasts 809 registered motorcycle taxi stands and 4,575 motorbike taxi drivers. However, a significant number of drivers and vehicles remain unregistered, sparking demands for stricter regulation and enforcement. Jamlonglak Khunwat, head of the Chon Buri Provincial Transport Office, Banglamung branch, acknowledged the ongoing efforts to register motorcycle taxis and public motorcycle drivers but admitted that turnout has been disappointingly low. The registration process requires applicants to undergo training and hold a private driver’s licence, with additional certification for those operating under ride-hailing apps. The meeting also centred on proposed penalties for misconduct among motorcycle taxi drivers. These include fights, overcharging, and unauthorised rental services. A subcommittee proposed a point deduction system: initial offences would incur fines and point deductions in line with Transport Department regulations, while repeated offences could lead to licence suspension or removal from taxi stands. Taxi stands with recurrent issues might face temporary closure, with the most severe cases potentially resulting in permanent shutdown, reported Pattaya Mail. In related news, a motorbike taxi driver in Phuket Town was on the run after allegedly stabbing a colleague during a heated argument. The violent dispute occurred on April 22, at the fresh market on Ranong Road. In other news, two women reached out to several Thai news agencies to seek justice after a motorcycle taxi rider physically assaulted them in Soi Pattaya 4 after they complained about the rider failing to signal before turning. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-06 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Foreign Man's 20K Online Slot Win in Pattaya Sparks Outcry Picture courtesy: MGR online A foreign man's recent social media post has ignited discussions about the enforcement of gambling laws in Thailand after he boasted about winning 20,000 baht playing online slot machines. Full stoty: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331637-foreign-mans-20k-online-slot-win-in-pattaya-spurs-outcry/

Picture courtesy: MGR online A foreign man's recent social media post has ignited discussions about the enforcement of gambling laws in Thailand after he boasted about winning 20,000 baht playing online slot machines. The post, shared in a popular Facebook group called "Pattaya, Thailand," included a screenshot of the game and a caption celebrating his big win. This has raised eyebrows, particularly considering Thailand's stringent laws against gambling. The Facebook user, whose identity remains undisclosed, shared the post on July 3. It featured visuals from the online gambling platform and expressed excitement over the win, reported MGR online. Notably, the caption revealed that the activity took place around Pattaya Soi 6, an area infamous for such clandestine activities. What truly fanned the flames of the controversy was the subsequent repost by the well-known Facebook page "Drama-addict." Accompanying the repost was a caption that cheekily questioned the local police's awareness of such activities happening right under their noses: "The man said he came to visit Thailand and won 20,000 baht playing slots. The location is around Pattaya Soi 6. What do the police around there think?" This provocation did not go unnoticed by netizens. Many urged local authorities to investigate the claim, with comments questioning the effectiveness of law enforcement in the area. Questions like, "Soi 6 is near the Pattaya police station too?" and sarcastic remarks such as, "The police arrived but didn't find anything, it's like prostitution," filled the comment section. The incident highlights the ongoing struggle with enforcing gambling laws in tourist-heavy regions like Pattaya. While some see this post as a call to action for local authorities, others treat it as yet another example of how illicit activities continue to thrive, often in plain sight. As the story circulates, the Pattaya police are under public scrutiny. The question remains whether this viral post will prompt a substantive response or become another anecdote in Pattaya's problematic reputation. -- 2024-07-06 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Neighbour’s Buddhist Music Leads to Stress and Miscarriage Claim video screenshot Channel 3 A couple in Ayutthaya province are blaming their neighbour’s incessant Buddhist music for causing significant stress, allegedly leading to a miscarriage. Chok, a 37-year-old mask craftsman, shared their plight with local media, hoping to find a resolution to the ongoing distress. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331636-neighbour’s-buddhist-music-leads-to-stress-and-miscarriage-claim/

Picture: video screenshot Channel 3 A couple in Ayutthaya province are blaming their neighbour’s incessant Buddhist music for causing significant stress, allegedly leading to a miscarriage. Chok, a 37-year-old mask craftsman, shared their plight with local media, hoping to find a resolution to the ongoing distress. Chok and his wife have endured this auditory assault since 2016 when their neighbour moved in. The conflict began as minor complaints—ranging from cooking smells to noise from a washing machine—but intensified when the neighbour started playing loud Buddhist chants without respite. While the authorities confirmed that the music didn’t exceed legal decibel limits, its constant presence has reportedly taken a toll on the couple’s mental health. Living in their home for over 40 years without prior issues, Chok even opened his space as a learning centre for Khon mask crafting, attracting students and fostering a supportive community spirit. However, since the arrival of the neighbour, tensions have mounted. The neighbour persistently lodged complaints over trivial matters, which Chok found absurd. The situation escalated when the neighbour allegedly brandished a gun in a moment of anger and let his dog attack a monk collecting alms. Chok's mother-in-law was another victim of the dog’s aggression. Noo, Chok’s wife, pregnant again after a recent miscarriage, shared that the unrelenting noise contributed to her extreme stress. She fears another potential miscarriage due to the ongoing conflict. When interviewed, the neighbour countered that Chok’s family caused disturbances with smoke from their charcoal stove, loud walkie-talkie communications, and musical instruments. He claimed his Buddhist music was intended to deter a bothersome cat, not to spite Chok's family. While both sides have their grievances, the resolution remains elusive, leaving the couple to navigate their continued distress amidst the relentless soundtrack of their neighbour’s Buddhist devotion. TOP Picture: video screenshot Channel 3 -- 2024-07-06 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Criticism Grows Over Alcohol Sales on Religious Holidays at Airports Picture courtesy: Daily News The Stop-Drink Network Thailand voiced strong objections to a new regulation allowing alcohol sales at major international airports during Thai religious holidays. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331634-criticism-grows-over-alcohol-sales-on-religious-holidays-at-airports/

The Stop-Drink Network Thailand voiced strong objections to a new regulation allowing alcohol sales at major international airports during Thai religious holidays. Mr. Teera Watcharapranee, the network's manager, criticised the move, spotlighting the five Major Buddhist Holidays affected. He argued that this aligns with a broader, profit-driven government agenda, which also includes relaxing alcohol restrictions and extending bar hours until 4 AM. Teera cited studies by Dr. Kamnuan Ungchusak, chair of the Working Group under the Alcohol Beverage Control Committee, who has said longer bar hours correlate with more accidents and fatalities. Teera said such policies are meant to attract tourists but come at a high social cost. He pointed out that countries like Sweden enforce strict alcohol sales bans on Sundays for public health and safety. The Stop-Drink Network also raised alarm bells about potential future expansions of this policy. The State Railway of Thailand has proposed allowing alcohol sales at train stations and on trains to boost domestic tourism. Teera referenced a tragic 2014 incident where a railway officer, intoxicated, assaulted and killed a young girl on a Surat Thani to Bangkok train, which led to tighter alcohol controls in such settings. Furthermore, Teera highlighted the broader public health implications. In Thailand, about 1.8 million people need treatment for alcohol-related issues, and over 20,000 deaths are attributed annually to alcohol-related accidents and illnesses. He stressed that alcohol should not be treated like any other product due to its significant health and social consequences. As debate continues, the Stop-Drink Network and various advocacy groups are calling for a re-evaluation of the policy, prioritising societal well-being over financial gains. Picture courtesy: Daily New -- 2024-07-06 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Saturday 6 July 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1331633-thailand-live-saturday-6-july-2024/

DP World to transform Thailand into regional transport hub Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post DP World, the global supply chain and logistics powerhouse based in Dubai is set to propose a plan to the Thai government aimed at transforming Thailand into a regional transport hub, according to Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331599-dp-world-to-transform-thailand-into-regional-transport-hub/

BYD inaugurated its first electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing plant outside China in Rayong, Thailand, marking a significant milestone with the production of its eight millionth new energy vehicle. BYD opens first EV plant in Thailand, producing eight millionth car Image courtesy of KhaoSod Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331594-byd-opens-first-ev-plant-in-thailand-producing-eight-millionth-car/

Thai man in BMW causes multiple crashes in Bangkok, 9 injured by Petch Petpailin Photo by Saimai Civil Defence via Facebook/ สะพานใหม่ A hapless Thai man crashed his BMW into seven vehicles on Sukhaphiban 5 in the Saimai district of Bangkok on the night of June 4, injuring nine people. Two of the victims are in hospital in a critical condition. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331579-thai-man-in-bmw-causes-multiple-crashes-in-bangkok-9-injured/

A hapless Thai man crashed his BMW into seven vehicles on Sukhaphiban 5 in the Saimai district of Bangkok on the night of June 4, injuring nine people. Two of the victims are in hospital in a critical condition. The BMW driver,That,aged between 40 and 45 years old, crashed his white saloon into a motorcycle on Sukhaphiban Road at approximately 8pm, yesterday. The incident reportedly occurred outside the Sarasas Witaed Saimai School near Sukhaphiban 5 Soi 90. A female passenger on the motorcycle was thrown into the air before falling to the ground. She lost consciousness and sustained serious injuries. The motorcycle rider was also severely injured. Witnesses and locals called the Saimai Civil Defence volunteers to the scene to take the two to hospital. The BMW sedan driver, That, did not stop to check on the victims. He continued driving away from the scene at high speed. After crashing into the motorbike and speeding away from the scene, the BMW driver lost control of his car and crashed onto a footpath near Wongsakorn Market Intersection. Police rushed to the scene and took That to the police station for questioning. Police conducted an alcohol test on That, which came back negative. However, officers have not yet revealed the details of the questioning to the public. Following an investigation by the rescue team and officers from Saimai Police Station, it was found that the same man caused four accidents around the same time near Sukhaphiban 5 Soi 86 and 73. He crashed into a white Toyota pickup, a white Nissan sedan, a Nissan pickup, Toyota Corolla Cross SUV, and other two motorcycles. Nine victims were injured in the repeated collision. The latest two victims from the motorcycle were the most seriously injured. A relative of the severely injured woman told Sanook that she remains in intensive care, as her brain was affected by the crash. The relative urged police to take the case seriously and demanded that the driver take responsibility for his actions. by Petch Petpailin Photo by Saimai Civil Defence via Facebook/ สะพานใหม่ Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Alcohol Sale Ban To Be Lifted at Thai Airports on Key Buddhist Holidays File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand’s National Alcoholic Beverage Policy Committee has decided to lift the ban on alcohol sales on five significant Buddhist holidays at key airports to boost tourism. The airports include Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang in Bangkok, and those in Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket, and Hat Yai. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331575-alcohol-sale-ban-to-be-lifted-at-thai-airports-on-key-buddhist-holidays/