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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. The holidays affected are Visakha Bucha, Makha Bucha, Asahna Bucha, Buddhist Lent, and the end of Buddhist Lent. This decision was reached by the National Alcoholic Beverage Policy Committee, chaired by Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit during a meeting held yesterday. Transport Minister Juangroongruangkit stated that the relaxation of the ban aims to stimulate the tourism economy. However, the exact date for when this change will take effect has not been specified. The committee is also considering whether to lift the ban on alcohol sales on these Buddhist holidays in trains and at railway stations. For this, they plan to consult with the State Railways of Thailand to weigh the economic benefits against potential health impacts. In addition to these changes, the government is reviewing a long-standing nationwide ban on the sale of alcohol between 2 pm and 5 pm, which has been in place for 52 years. This part of the legislation is under scrutiny as the country seeks to modernise its regulations in response to evolving tourism and economic landscapes. This move is part of a broader approach to balance Thailand's cultural values with the economic benefits derived from its vibrant tourism sector. As Thailand welcomes millions of international visitors annually, easing restrictions such as these aims to make the travel experience more convenient while ensuring the nation’s values and health considerations are respected. The announcement has been met with mixed reactions, but the government remains focused on finding an equilibrium that supports both tourism and public health. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-07-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Decomposed body found in palm oil plantation sparks local mystery by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod The decomposed body of a man was discovered buried in a palm oil plantation in Sichon, Nakhon Si Thammarat, with his knees visibly protruding from the ground. Police are now questioning his roommate, a fellow Myanmar worker. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331574-decomposed-body-found-in-palm-oil-plantation-sparks-local-mystery/

The decomposed body of a man was discovered buried in a palm oil plantation in Sichon, Nakhon Si Thammarat, with his knees visibly protruding from the ground. Police are now questioning his roommate, a fellow Myanmar worker. At 4pm yesterday, July 4, the Chief of Sichon Police Station, Boonchuern Limprajupong, along with medical staff from Sichon Hospital and rescue teams from Phetkasem Sichon Foundation, arrived at the site to investigate. Located in a ditch within the palm oil plantation at a village in the Chalung subdistrict, the deceased was found in a state of severe decomposition, emitting a foul odour. The man’s knees were visible above the ground, partially covered by plants and vegetation. Officials removed the covering plants to retrieve the body, which was estimated to have been dead for at least three to four days. The deceased was later identified as a Myanmar labourer who lived in rented a house about 100 metres from where the body was found. He shared the house with another Myanmar worker, who has since been taken in for questioning. However, the roommate does not speak Thai, prompting police to quickly arrange for an interpreter to assist in the investigation. The on-site medical examiner and forensic officers could not determine the exact cause of death due to the body’s advanced decomposition. The body has been sent to the forensic centre at Maharaj Nakhon Si Thammarat Hospital for a detailed autopsy to ascertain the cause of death. Locals who gathered at the scene speculated that the man had been murdered and buried in the ditch to conceal the crime. However, identifying the perpetrator remains the responsibility of the police. Boonchuern Limprajupong mentioned that there were no visible signs of sharp instruments or other weapons on the body, suggesting the possibility of blunt force trauma. Nevertheless, a thorough autopsy is required to confirm the precise cause of death. The house where the deceased lived with his roommate was rented by their employer. The police plan to coordinate with the employer and the other Myanmar worker for further questioning. They are awaiting the interpreter to gather more information on who might have committed the crime and buried the body, with the investigation ongoing, reported KhaoSod. by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

South Korean Woman Wanted by Interpol Found Hiding in Thailand Picture by Instagram/ @shinebright_love0225 via ThaiRath Immigration Bureau officials in Thailand have intensified their search for Hwang Hana, a South Korean socialite who is the subject of an Interpol blue notice. The 31-year-old woman, known for her high-profile connections, including being the ex-fiancée of former K-pop star Park Yoochun of TVXQ, is wanted in connection with drug-related offences. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331571-south-korean-woman-wanted-by-interpol-found-hiding-in-thailand/

Immigration Bureau officials in Thailand have intensified their search for Hwang Hana, a South Korean socialite who is the subject of an Interpol blue notice. The 31-year-old woman, known for her high-profile connections, including being the ex-fiancée of former K-pop star Park Yoochun of TVXQ, is wanted in connection with drug-related offences. Hwang Hana, who gained notoriety as the granddaughter of Namyang Dairy’s founder, was linked to a drug case in South Korea. A recent arrest of another South Korean individual, who confessed to purchasing drugs from Hwang, has reignited the investigation into her activities. Despite earlier accusations, Hwang had previously evaded legal consequences, leading to speculation about her family's influence. Further complicating her situation, Hwang was accused of leveraging explicit videos to blackmail multiple victims. The footage allegedly depicted women involved in drug-induced nudity and sexual activities. Her name has also surfaced in the infamous Burning Sun scandal, a major South Korean case involving prostitution, human trafficking, and bribery, which embroiled numerous celebrities and officials. Hwang was arrested in April 2019 for questioning in relation to drug offences but was subsequently released. Interpol issued a blue notice for Hwang, suspecting her of continued drug involvement. Authorities in Thailand were alerted when she arrived at Don Mueang International Airport from Vietnam on March 13. She later sought passport renewal at the South Korean Embassy in Thailand, claiming her passport was lost. Currently, Thai Immigration Bureau officials suspect Hwang is still in Thailand, as there is no record of her departure. In addition to cooperating with Interpol to extradite her, Thai authorities plan to charge her with overstaying her visa. The search remains ongoing, with officials urging anyone with information on Hwang’s whereabouts to come forward as they work to resolve this high-profile case. Picture by Instagram/ @shinebright_love0225 via ThaiRath -- 2024-07-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Electronic Monitoring for Political Suspects Under Review File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Justice Ministry plans shift to home detention with electronic monitoring for political suspects amid prison overcrowding concerns. In a significant move to reform the criminal justice system, the Ministry of Justice has revealed plans to amend current regulations to allow political suspects to be detained at home with electronic ankle monitors, pending trial. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331569-electronic-monitoring-for-political-suspects-under-review/

Justice Ministry plans shift to home detention with electronic monitoring for political suspects amid prison overcrowding concerns. In a significant move to reform the criminal justice system, the Ministry of Justice has revealed plans to amend current regulations to allow political suspects to be detained at home with electronic ankle monitors, pending trial. Thailand's Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong announced that the ministry is reviewing Section 89/1 of a ministerial regulation to provide courts with discretionary power to opt for home detention instead of imprisonment for these suspects. Explaining the rationale behind the proposal, Minister Tawee stressed the importance of upholding the presumption of innocence until proven guilty. "If the amendment is approved, political suspects could be detained in their homes with electronic monitoring instead," he said. Currently, around 25 individuals face charges under Section 112 of the Criminal Code, also known as the lese-majeste law, with penalties ranging from three to 15 years in prison. Courts have frequently denied bail due to the serious nature of the offences. Minister Tawee highlighted that the expanded use of electronic monitoring bracelets not only aligns with the principle of presumption of innocence but also seeks to address the critical overcrowding in Thai prisons. The prison system, designed for 180,000 inmates, is currently housing about 280,000 people, with 50,000 awaiting trial. The announcement follows pressing questions raised by Move Forward Party MP Sasinan Thamnithinan, who cited the recent case of political activist Netiporn Saneysangkhom. Known as Bung Thalu Wang, Netiporn died in custody while on a hunger strike, sparking concerns about the Department of Corrections' treatment of ill detainees. Sasinan’s questions centred on whether the department would take responsibility for Netiporn’s death and improve its treatment protocols. Minister Tawee defended the department, asserting that its care standards meet international requirements. He noted that the number of deaths in detention (750 in 2023) was actually lower than the average of about 1,000 deaths reported annually in previous years. Netiporn's death has intensified calls for swift justice system reforms and highlighted perceived inequities, notably in comparison with the treatment of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. The ongoing hunger strike by activists Tantawan "Tawan" Tuatulanon and Natthanon "Frank" Chaimahabud further underscores the urgency of these reforms. Both activists were detained for 105 days over sedition charges before being granted bail in late May. Netiporn's passing on 14th May, after succumbing to a heart attack despite medical interventions, has fuelled public scrutiny and demands for comprehensive changes in the handling of political detainees. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-07-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Heavy Rain and Flash Floods Affect 55 Provinces in Thailand File photo In an alert from the Thailand Meteorological Department, citizens are warned of significant rainfall and potential flash flooding in 55 provinces, including Bangkok. According to the department, 80 per cent of Bangkok is anticipated to be heavily impacted by severe weather in the coming days. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331565-heavy-rain-and-flash-floods-affect-55-provinces-in-thailand/

File photo In an alert from the Thailand Meteorological Department, citizens are warned of significant rainfall and potential flash flooding in 55 provinces, including Bangkok. According to the department, 80 per cent of Bangkok is anticipated to be heavily impacted by severe weather in the coming days. The intense weather is attributed to a monsoon trough that extends across northern and upper northeastern regions of the country, compounded by a low-pressure area over Laos and northern Vietnam. Additionally, the southwest monsoon in the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand is gaining strength, resulting in sustained and heavy rainfall across broad swathes of the nation. Residents in many parts of the country, particularly those in northeastern Thailand, the capital, and eastern provinces, have been advised to stay alert. These areas are expected to experience very heavy rain, which could cause flash floods and rapid water runoff in mountainous regions and flood-prone lowlands. Thailand's coastal waters will also face the effects of this weather disturbance. Winds in the upper Andaman Sea are set to be moderate, raising wave heights to between 1 and 2 metres. In areas experiencing thunderstorms, wave heights may exceed 2 metres, with maritime authorities urging caution. To the north, regions including Chiang Mai and Lampang, are forecasted 60% chance of thunderstorms, with temperatures ranging from 23 to 35 degrees Celsius. Similarly, the northeastern provinces such as Loei and Khon Kaen will have a similar weather pattern, with temperatures spanning 23 to 34 degrees Celsius. The central plains are not spared either. Provinces such as Uthai Thani and Kanchanaburi will see a significant amount of rainfall, and temperatures here will hover between 24 - 35 degrees Celsius. For those in the eastern provinces like Chon Buri and Rayong, very heavy rainfall is projected, accompanied by seas with waves reaching over 2 metres during thunderstorms. The southern coasts will also experience intense weather—both the eastern and western shores will see thunderstorms covering much of the area and heavy rain periods, with potential wave heights surpassing 2 metres in turbulent conditions. Bangkok and its environs are facing the heaviest burden. The metropolitan area could see thunderstorms affecting 80% of its territory. Expected temperatures will range from 24 to 33 degrees Celsius. Local authorities are preparing for large water accumulations and advising citizens to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions. As the nation prepares for this challenging weather spell, all residents living in affected areas are urged to stay informed and heed warnings from local authorities to ensure safety during this period of unpredictable meteorological activity. -- 2024-07-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Mid-air mayhem: Turbulence terror hits global flights Picture courtesy: AFR Singapore Airlines Flight SQ321 encountered severe turbulence over Thailand, forcing it to make an emergency landing in Bangkok in late May. This incident has raised fresh concerns about the increasing issue of in-flight turbulence, which has been highlighted by several other recent incidents. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331563-mid-air-mayhem-turbulence-terror-hits-global-flights/

Picture courtesy: AFR Singapore Airlines Flight SQ321 encountered severe turbulence over Thailand, forcing it to make an emergency landing in Bangkok in late May. This incident has raised fresh concerns about the increasing issue of in-flight turbulence, which has been highlighted by several other recent incidents. In the past few months, there have been multiple turbulence-related injuries on major airlines. Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways, and Air Europa have all experienced sudden altitude drops that required medical attention for passengers. The affected Singapore Airlines flight was traveling from London to Singapore when it encountered a violent storm. This week, an Air Europa flight from Madrid to Montevideo faced severe turbulence, injuring 40 passengers. The aviation industry is increasingly worried about these incidents, as turbulence seems to be becoming a more significant threat. Data from the Turbli database shows that the world's most turbulent flights are between Santiago, Chile, and Santa Cruz, Bolivia. The site, which analyzes 150,000 routes using data from UK and US meteorological agencies, also ranks flights from Tokyo among the roughest long-haul routes. Turbulence usually occurs where air streams traveling at different speeds meet, often at the edges of jet streams, over mountain ranges, or in certain cloud formations. According to Turbli, turbulence on the Santiago-Santa Cruz route is mainly caused by winds blowing from the Pacific to the Atlantic Ocean, nearly perpendicular to the Andes. The equatorial region is another turbulence hotspot, with flights frequently experiencing rough conditions, according to the Hindustan Times. -- 2024-07-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Duck Farm Workers' Dispute Over Wives' Attributes Ends in Knife Attack Picture courtesy: Khaosod In a dramatic turn of events last night, a casual conversation amongst duck farm workers in Chachoengsao Province sharply escalated into violence. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331561-duck-farm-workers-dispute-over-wives-attributes-ends-in-knife-attack/

In a dramatic turn of events last night, a casual conversation amongst duck farm workers in Chachoengsao Province sharply escalated into violence. The incident occurred around 9:00 p.m. on Khlong Chao Road, where two intoxicated men started arguing about their wives. The altercation began when Mr. Naiyana, also known as Mr. Noi, and Mr. Nong, a Laotian worker, began bragging about their respective wives' attributes, specifically discussing whose wife's vagina was bigger. According to witnesses, the conversation took a sudden aggressive turn, with heated words exchanged. The dispute quickly turned violent when Mr. Noi, 48, sustained a serious knife wound to his left ear, nearly severing it. Additional injuries included a 10-centimetre-long cut on his head and a severe laceration on his left arm. Horrified onlookers called the police and rescue workers, who provided immediate first aid before transporting Mr. Noi to Phutthasothon Hospital for further treatment. The suspect, Mr. Nong, approximately 35 years old, fled the scene immediately after the incident. Both men were relatively new to the area, having arrived only 2-3 days prior to the confrontation. They had moved to the same location after their employer consolidated the remaining ducks under one group’s care. The scene was chaotic when Chachoengsao rescue workers arrived. They found empty bottles of white liquor scattered around, evidence of prior heavy drinking. However, the knife used in the attack was not located, indicating that Mr. Nong likely took it with him when he fled. One of the workers, identified as Mr. Joy, who was visibly intoxicated, provided additional context. “We usually gather in the evenings to drink and talk,” he said. “This time, the conversation about their wives got out of hand.” Following Mr. Joy’s account, the police are conducting a search to locate Mr. Nong. Meanwhile, the community remains on edge, dealing with the shocking violence that disrupted their close-knit group of workers. Authorities urge anyone with information on Mr. Nong's whereabouts to come forward. The incident stands as a stark reminder of how trivial disputes can quickly spiral out of control. Picture courtesy: Khaosod -- 2024-07-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Rainy Season Brings Egg-Laden Cricket Delicacy to Phayao Picture courtesy: Naewna The rainy season has arrived, bringing with it Phayao’s celebrated culinary delight – the “Jing Kung,” or egg-laden mole cricket. These insects, known for their delectable taste and high nutritional value, are presently in abundance, much to the delight of local residents. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331558-rainy-season-brings-egg-laden-cricket-delicacy-to-phayao/

The rainy season has arrived, bringing with it Phayao’s celebrated culinary delight – the “Jing Kung,” or egg-laden mole cricket. These insects, known for their delectable taste and high nutritional value, are presently in abundance, much to the delight of local residents. Currently, the residents of Phayao are busy digging up these prized crickets, which can be found burrowed in the wet soil. The crickets, called “Jing Kung” or “Ji Khrong” locally, grow significantly larger during this season. They are keenly sought after not only for their delightful flavour but also for their substantial nutritional benefits. This has also become an economic boon as markets see brisk trade in these insects. In the local markets, particularly at the bustling Tha Wang Thong fresh market in Mueang Phayao District, people sell these crickets at prices ranging from 2 to 3 baht per cricket. A small bag containing around 50 crickets can fetch up to 150 baht, while buying in bulk could cost between 100 and 600 baht, depending on the quantity and size. These crickets are highly versatile and can be prepared in various dishes. Popular recipes include crispy fried crickets and a traditional chilli paste infused with the flavour of these insects. Their richness and flavour make them a treasured ingredient in northern Thai cuisine and beyond. The excitement is palpable when the egg-laden mole crickets appear as it signals the short window when locals can gather and enjoy them. Once the mating season ends, these crickets become rare until the next rainy spell. Hence, during this brief period, the crickets are cherished, forming an integral part of both the local diet and economy. “We only get to enjoy these crickets once a year, so we make the most of it,” said a local vendor, summing up the community’s sentiment towards this annual treat. Eager anticipation for the rainy season is a testament to the passion people hold for their unique culinary traditions, and they look forward to when the crickets will be plentiful again. Picture courtesy: Naewna -- 2024-07-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Parts of Pattaya Face Flash Flooding After Intense Rainfall By Adam Judd Pattaya, Thailand – In the early hours of July 5th, 2024, Pattaya City experienced a sudden deluge that left streets submerged and vehicles stranded. The heavy rain caused chaos in several key areas. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331553-parts-of-pattaya-face-flash-flooding-after-intense-rainfall/

Pattaya, Thailand – In the early hours of July 5th, 2024, Pattaya City experienced a sudden deluge that left streets submerged and vehicles stranded. The heavy rain caused chaos in several key areas. The Impact – **Cars and Motorcycles**: Many vehicles were caught off guard as water levels rose rapidly. Sedans parked along roads were particularly vulnerable. – **Route Disruptions**: Third Road, the Mum Aroi Restaurant intersection in Central Pattaya, and the roads leading to North Pattaya all faced significant flooding. Khao Talo Railway Road, heading toward Wat Tham Samakkhi, witnessed a rapid increase in water levels. – **Damage and Stranded Vehicles**: Some drivers attempted to force their way through the floodwaters, resulting in damage to their vehicles. Sedans were especially affected, while taller vehicles struggled to navigate the inundated roads. By Adam Judd Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-07-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Friday 5 July 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331551-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-friday-5-july-2024/

Prime minister Sretha Thavasin and Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim will visit the south of Thailand next month following a deadly car bomb blast outside police flats in Yala on June 30th that killed a teacher and injured 16. Peace negotiaions have been underway in kuala lumpur between the thai government and insurgent, August 3rd appears to be the most likely date for the meeting. The Ministry of Justice plans to amend rules to allow political suspects to be detained at home with electronic ankle monitors. These may include 25 lese-majeste cases currently pending trial or appeal without bail. The move also aims to reduce prison overcrowding. Authorities in Koh Samui say they found most of the 52 villas on a hilltop on the island are under investigation for land encroachment and say they did not have construction permits. The properties are located on hills that were higher than the law permits. The army says the property's landowners showed the land deeds to officers but then refused to let the authorities into the area. China’s first overseas BYD factory began operations this week in Rayong, potentially creating 10,000 new jobs. The factory aims to produce up to 150,000 cars per year with an investment of over 35 billion baht, the first model to roll off the production line will be the BYD Dolphin. Around the region. Philippines: A US mid-range missile system deployed for annual joint military exercises – to the annoyance of China – will be pulled out of the country, Philippine troops were taught how to use and maintain the Typhon missile system, but it was not used in live-fire exercises. U.S troops have already started to dismantle the system. Todays’ WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: Cloudy with thunder showers 32C degrees celsius Bangkok: cloudy thundershowers 31 Pattaya: Cloudy with thunder showers 29 Phuket and the south: Cloudy with thundershowers 29 Hua Hin: Cloudy with rain mainly in the afternoon, 31 AQI: green which is good Green clear, yellow moderate, Orange High, Red unhealthy. Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Wunderground.com. The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Windy.com. -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-07-05 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Bangkok Taxi Driver Drags Motorcyclist's Bike for a Kilometre Picture courtesy: 77kaoded A minor altercation between a motorcyclist, 40-year-old Wicharaphon, and a taxi driver took a terrifying turn this morning on Chaeng Watthana Road, Nonthaburi. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331541-bangkok-taxi-driver-drags-motorcyclists-bike-for-a-kilometre/

A minor altercation between a motorcyclist, 40-year-old Wicharaphon, and a taxi driver took a terrifying turn this morning on Chaeng Watthana Road, Nonthaburi. What began as a near miss quickly escalated into a road rage incident where the taxi dragged Wicharaphon's motorcycle over a kilometre, ending with a crash into a utility pole. At around 7.40am, the scene under Rama IV Bridge became chaotic as traffic police and Ruamkatanyu Foundation volunteers responded. A Bangkok-registered taxi was found in the median, its driver inside, seemingly unresponsive and complaining of chest pain. The severely damaged black Yamaha motorcycle lay nearby. According to eyewitnesses, the incident originated on Rama IV Bridge. Video footage captured by a bystander, Jaroenpong, showed the taxi dragging the motorcycle from the bridge down to the crash point. Jaroenpong, who also rides a motorcycle, narrated his encounter. Heading to work, he spotted flashing lights and the taxi colliding with the motorcyclist's bike. The taxi relentlessly reversed and moved forward, dragging the bike along. Jaroenpong recorded the scene and alerted police nearby. Picture courtesy: 77kaoded Wicharaphon, who had left his home in Bang Bua Thong, described how the taxi, initially in the far-right lane, abruptly moved to the middle lane, nearly causing an accident. When Wicharaphon stopped to question the taxi driver, the taxi accelerated, knocking his bike over. Despite injuries, Wicharaphon tried to stop the escalating situation but ended up having to leap to the bridge's edge to avoid further harm. The taxi continued to drag the motorcycle, prompting a desperate chase. Jaroenpong followed, recording the pursuit until the taxi, failing to dislodge the bike against the curb, crashed into the median. Inside the taxi, the driver was found with his seatbelt fastened, eyes closed, and generally unharmed. Meanwhile, Wicharaphon sustained injuries to his leg and hand. Authorities are now investigating the incident to determine the full extent of legal actions required. TOP Picture courtesy: 77kaoded -- 2024-07-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

PM Defends Appointment Amid Top Cop Controversy File photo courtesy: Wikimedia Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin vehemently denied allegations of misconduct in the appointment of Police General Torsak Sukvimol as national police chief. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331540-pm-defends-appointment-amid-top-cop-controversy/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin vehemently denied allegations of misconduct in the appointment of Police General Torsak Sukvimol as national police chief. The Thai premier stood firm against accusations that he had breached the Royal Thai Police (RTP) Act when appointing Torsak Sukvimol last year. The complaint was brought against him by Pol. Gen. Surachate Hakparn, commonly known as Big Joke, Torsak’s former deputy. Big Joke, in his complaint filed with the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) yesterday, claimed that the 62-year-old prime minister violated Article 157 of the Criminal Code by not adhering to the RTP Act. He argued that the RTP Act mandates the prime minister, who is the ex-officio chair of the Police Commission, to prioritise candidates for the police commissioner-general role based on seniority and investigative performance. The Thai prime minister emphasised that Torsak’s investigative prowess was well-recognised and had received unanimous endorsement from the Police Commission. He also clarified that he had abstained from voting for Torsak due to his role in the nomination process. “I chose the candidate for the top cop’s job without bias and with honest intentions. So, I’m ready to explain to the NACC.” Adding to the political drama, the prime minister mentioned his uncertainty about whether his legal adviser Wissanu Krea-ngam would lead his defence, as Wissanu is currently prioritising a case before the Constitutional Court. The court is considering a petition by a group of senators seeking PM Srettha’s removal from office for allegedly breaching ethical standards and the Constitution by appointing Pichit Chuenban as PM’s Office Minister despite Pichit’s controversial past. File photo courtesy: Wikimedia -- 2024-07-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand's Airports Reach Record Highs with 52.16 Million Passengers Picture courtesy: MGR online In the first half of 2024, Thailand's six international airports, under the management of Airports of Thailand (AOT), saw a significant increase in passenger traffic. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331539-thailands-airports-reach-record-highs-with-5216-million-passengers/

Picture courtesy: MGR online In the first half of 2024, Thailand's six international airports, under the management of Airports of Thailand (AOT), saw a significant increase in passenger traffic. Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit reported an impressive 52.16 million travelers, reflecting a 20.28% rise compared to the same period in the previous year. AOT oversees six key airports: Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, Mae Fah Luang, Phuket, and Hat Yai, which together handle 95% of Thailand's domestic and international flights. Speaking at AOT’s 45th-anniversary celebration at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre, Suriya highlighted that 32.05 million of these passengers were international arrivals, mainly from Asia, Europe, and the United States. These tourists contribute approximately 2.3 trillion baht annually to Thailand’s tourism industry, accounting for about 70% of the national expenditure budget. Suriya, who also serves as Deputy Prime Minister, emphasized the collaborative efforts of AOT and the Ministry of Transport to position Thailand as a global aviation hub. This objective is part of the government's Ignite Thailand initiative, launched in February, which aims to transform the country into a center for tourism, medical care, food, aviation, logistics, electric vehicles, the digital economy, and finance by 2030. The initiative prioritizes infrastructure investment and promotional campaigns to attract both tourists and business travelers, with the aim of propelling Thailand to the 8th spot among the world's top tourist destinations. The ministry has set ambitious goals to rank Thai airports among the top 20 globally within five years. Currently, Suvarnabhumi Airport is ranked 58th worldwide, while Don Mueang is recognized as one of the top 10 best low-cost airports. AOT CEO Kirati Kitmanawat attributed the increase in international arrivals to the rapid recovery of the global tourism industry post-pandemic and the visa-free policy for visitors from China, Kazakhstan, India, and Taiwan. From October 2023 to May 2024, AOT reported a remarkable 81.05 million passengers, reaching 83.4% of pre-pandemic levels. Of these, 48.95 million were international travelers, and 32.09 million were domestic passengers. Kirati also noted a significant revenue boost, with AOT earning 33.94 billion baht from September 2023 to March 2024, a 71% year-on-year increase, and expressed optimism for continued growth in the latter half of the year. -- 2024-07-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe