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Image: Oleksandr P/Pexels by Ryan Turner Thailand’s economy is showing signs of recovery, yet economists warn of ongoing risks that could hinder its growth potential. Key challenges include elevated household debt, slow income recovery for vulnerable groups, and Thailand’s economic interdependence with China. Despite these issues, the Thai economy reported a growth of 1.9% in 2023, although this was below expectations. The economy is gaining strength, supported by strong private demand, a rebound in tourism, and increased government budget allocation. Growth forecasts predict an increase to 2.8% this year and 3.3% in 2025, largely due to the continued focus on government spending, especially through initiatives like the digital wallet scheme, along with strong exports and tourism. Economists from the ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO) spoke on the expected short-term growth in their Annual Consultation Report on Thailand for 2024. “Tourism is expected to exceed pre-pandemic levels in 2025. Government spending is set to accelerate, with the revised digital wallet scheme set to lift short-term growth.” Headline inflation is anticipated to decrease to 0.7% this year from 1.3% in 2023, thanks to energy subsidies and reduced prices of essential goods. However, inflation is expected to rise to 1.5% in 2025 as subsidies are gradually removed and the economic recovery gains momentum. Lingering problems Short-term risks, highlighted by AMRO, include potential export weaknesses, potential delays in government spending, and sluggish private investment. High household debt and a slow income recovery among vulnerable groups could challenge consumption and affect banks’ asset quality. AMRO economists also spoke on the issue of public debt. “Over the longer term, Thailand faces a public debt sustainability risk and a persistent decline in growth potential. The failure to adapt to digital and decarbonisation trends could render key export sectors uncompetitive.” AMRO’s report, released yesterday, November 27, advises the Thai government to focus on securing macro-financial stability and revitalising structural transformation to achieve higher growth in the long term. They suggest that additional monetary policy easing might be necessary if economic growth underperforms. Revitalising economic transformation is crucial for Thailand’s long-term growth. This includes enhancing agricultural productivity, shifting labour from agriculture to more productive sectors, transitioning manufacturing towards new growth areas, and unlocking the service sector’s potential through infrastructure improvements, according to AMRO. The office indicates that Thailand could reach high-income status by 2050 if it continues on its current path. However, with bold reforms and effective development plan implementation, this status could be achieved by the early 2040s, reported Bangkok Post. Maybank Investment Banking Group in Kuala Lumpur notes that evolving economic ties with China present challenges for Thai policymakers. China’s industrial leadership could pose challenges to regional economies with overlapping structures. Rising global trade tensions may lead to an influx of Chinese products in neighbouring markets, threatening local market shares. Balancing protecting domestic firms and jobs while fostering beneficial relationships with Chinese companies is crucial, Maybank advises. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-29

Thaksin Pushes Controversial Projects Despite Opposition Picture courtesy: MGR Online Thaksin Shinawatra has taken direct action to drive a range of ambitious projects, including developments on Koh Kood and a 99-year land lease policy, amidst significant public opposition. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344892-thaksin-pushes-controversial-projects-despite-opposition/

Picture courtesy: MGR Online Thaksin Shinawatra has taken direct action to drive a range of ambitious projects, including developments on Koh Kood and a 99-year land lease policy, amidst significant public opposition. He aims to enhance the Pheu Thai Party's standing by actively implementing multiple initiatives simultaneously, deflecting focus from any single controversial endeavour. This strategy is a bid to regain political influence and secure a strong position in upcoming elections. Prominent academic Dr Wanwichit Boonprong suggests Thaksin's direct involvement is necessary because public confidence in Pheu Thai's leadership under Paetongtarn Shinawatra is lacking. Consequently, Thaksin is leading efforts to showcase achievements that will appeal to voters. These efforts are termed "economic stimulus projects," such as the proposed digital currency handout and restructuring debt obligations. The Pheu Thai government is also promoting policies that have faced strong criticism due to concerns about national security and economic stability. These include negotiations with Cambodia over energy resources near Koh Kood, legalising gambling as "entertainment complexes," and opening real estate markets to foreigners through 99-year leases. The push for these policies, despite backlash, is perceived as Thaksin's attempt to rapidly implement changes before potential legal challenges affect the party's political future. However, critics argue that these policies serve more as populist tactics to boost political support rather than genuinely stimulate economic growth. Concerns over increased public debt and fiscal irresponsibility are also raised, particularly regarding the financial viability and necessity of such schemes. In summary, Thaksin's aggressive push for these developments is a strategic move to solidify Pheu Thai's political position but has sparked significant debate over their broader implications for Thailand’s economic and national security, reported MGR Online. -- 2024-11-29

Pictures courtesy: Naew Na

British Man Arrested for Overstay and Insulting Phuket Officials Picture courtesy: Novosti Phuketa A British man was arrested on 27 November at Phuket International Airport for violating Section 81 of the Immigration Act (overstay). He had stayed in the country 130 days longer than permitted by the stamp in his passport. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344877-british-man-arrested-for-overstay-and-insulting-phuket-officials/

Picture courtesy: Novosti Phuketa A British man was arrested on 27 November at Phuket International Airport for violating Section 81 of the Immigration Act (overstay). He had stayed in the country 130 days longer than permitted by the stamp in his passport. The Immigration Bureau’s passport control unit at the international terminal reported the arrest. According to the report, the man was detained while undergoing departure control. It also mentioned that the 37-year-old British man insulted officials performing their duties. After the arrest, he was taken to Sakhu Police Station to face formal charges under Section 81. While this section allows for imprisonment of up to two years, courts usually impose a fine of 500 baht per day (capped at 20,000 baht) and deportation. Until his deportation, the British man will be held at the Immigration Detention Centre (IDC). Under the Good Guys In, Bad Guys Out policy, any arrest for overstaying carries an additional penalty: a re-entry ban of five years for overstays under a year or ten years for overstays exceeding a year, reported Novosti Phuketa. -- 2024-11-29

Pattaya Cracks Down on Foreign Criminals to Boost Tourist Confidence Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Authorities in Pattaya have launched an intensive operation to crack down on crimes involving foreign nationals in the area. This move aims to boost tourist confidence ahead of the Pattaya International Fireworks Festival. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344873-pattaya-cracks-down-on-foreign-criminals-to-boost-tourist-confidence/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Authorities in Pattaya have launched an intensive operation to crack down on crimes involving foreign nationals in the area. This move aims to boost tourist confidence ahead of the Pattaya International Fireworks Festival. The operation, named "Operation Clean-Sweep", is led by Pol Lt Gen Yingyot Thepchamnong, acting Commissioner of Region 2 Police. It addresses the growing concerns about international crimes and illegal activities by foreigners that have recently plagued local media narratives. These include illegal labour and cross-border crimes which have become more prevalent and violent. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Collaborating with local law enforcement, immigration officials, and public health authorities, the operation successfully led to several arrests. These include: 1. Illegal Work and Fraudulent Activities: 17 Chinese nationals were caught for running an illegal loan business with a turnover of around 392 million baht. 2. Unauthorised Herbal Product Manufacturing: Three illegal shops were shut down, resulting in 11 arrests, including seven foreign workers. Authorities seized 27 misleadingly marketed herbal products. 3. Working Without Proper Permits: 109 foreigners were found working beyond their visas' limitations. 4. Illegal Entry and Overstays: Officials apprehended 469 individuals for entering the country illegally and 33 for overstaying their visas. 5. Failure to Report Alien Residences: A total of 249 offences were reported under this law. 6. Illegal Possession of Firearms: 42 cases were documented, with 23 firearms seized. 7. Drug Offences: Nine individuals were arrested with large quantities of methamphetamine and ice. 8. Public Disturbance: 33 motorcycles were confiscated and two reckless driving incidents were addressed, involving Kuwaiti nationals. 9. Vagrancy and Begging Issues: Authorities dealt with 14 vagrants and 33 beggars, finding seven under influence of drugs. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath This robust initiative marks the beginning of targeted preventative measures along with aggressive actions against crimes impacting tourist safety in Pattaya. It aligns with the national police's vision of maintaining transparency and integrity in law enforcement, promoting confidence both domestically and internationally, reported Siam Rath. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2024-11-29

Thailand Slashes Airfare Prices by 30% for New Year Holiday Travelers File photo for reference only The Thai Ministry of Transport has announced a special New Year treat for travelers by collaborating with airlines to tackle the issue of costly flight tickets. Just in time for the holiday season, they are offering a 30% discount on 50,000 seats from December 26 to January 5. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344852-thailand-slashes-airfare-prices-by-30-for-new-year-holiday-travelers/

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 29 November 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1344847-thailand-live-friday-29-november-2024/

Thai police banned from collecting fees for red checkpoint boxes By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Post Today Thai police issued an urgent directive prohibiting officers from collecting monthly fees for red checkpoint boxes following a corruption ruling by the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344859-thai-police-banned-from-collecting-fees-for-red-checkpoint-boxes/

AOT confirms facial recognition for international flights By Ryan Turner Image courtesy of Pattaya News Airports of Thailand Plc (AOT) yesterday announced that the state-owned enterprise will implement facial recognition services at six major airports for international flights starting December 1. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344851-aot-confirms-facial-recognition-for-international-flights/

Photo via ThaiRath Nong Bua Lamphu gunman surrenders amid hunger, exhaustion The Thai gunman who murdered three people in the Isaan province of Nong Bua Lamphu surrendered to the police today, claiming exhaustion and hunger. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344846-nong-bua-lamphu-gunman-surrenders-amid-hunger-exhaustion/

UPDATE: Nong Bua Lamphu gunman surrenders amid hunger, exhaustion By Petch Petpailin Photo via ThaiRath The Thai gunman who murdered three people in the Isaan province of Nong Bua Lamphu surrendered to the police today, claiming exhaustion and hunger. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344846-nong-bua-lamphu-gunman-surrenders-amid-hunger-exhaustion/

Colombian gang arrested in Bangkok for 3.2m baht assets theft by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Police from the Metropolitan Investigation Division 6 and the Phlapphla Chai 2 Station apprehended a Colombian gang involved in a high-profile theft case. The gang is accused of breaking into a luxury vehicle and stealing assets worth over 3.2 million baht, including 900,000 baht in cash and 50 baht weight of gold bars. The incident involved a businessperson in the hair dye industry. On the day of the arrest, senior police officials, including Siam Boonsom, acting police commissioner, and Nopasilp Phulsawad, deputy commissioner, directed the joint operation that led to the capture of 73 year old Jose Orlando Ocampo. Officers recovered cash amounting to 475,000 baht and gold bars weighing 20 baht, valued at approximately 880,000 baht. The total assets retrieved amounted to around 1.3 million baht. Ocampo was apprehended in a rented condo on Sukhumvit 77, Suan Luang, Bangkok, following an extensive investigation by the Phlapphla Chai 2 investigation team and the Division 6 investigators. The theft occurred on November 23 when the victim, who sells hair dye products, parked their white Lexus on level B5 of the Amp Chinatown car park in Pom Prap Sattru Phai, Bangkok. After selling 20 baht weight of gold for 883,000 baht at a gold shop on Charoen Krung Road, the victim stored the cash and an additional 50 baht weight of gold in their car. The following day, at around 10.30am, the victim returned to find their car’s left rear window smashed and the valuables missing. Security footage revealed two unidentified men, believed to be foreigners, following the victim and taking a side bag and a white cloth bag from the victim’s car. This prompted a swift police response to track down the perpetrators. Following tireless investigations, police uncovered that the suspect, a Colombian national, was residing in a rented condo on Sukhumvit 77. Police maintained surveillance around the area at around 3.30pm yesterday, November 27. Ocampo was found hiding in his condo, having not shown himself since the crime was committed. An arrest was made under a warrant issued by the Bangkok South Criminal Court on November 26, charging him with theft involving the destruction of protective barriers and using disguises to avoid detection. Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Ocampo confessed to the crime, admitting that part of the stolen assets had been given to an accomplice, also a Colombian national, who has since fled to Cambodia. The suspect led officers to recover some of the remaining stolen assets from his condo. He cited financial needs as the motive behind the theft. The suspect has been handed over to investigators at the Phlapphla Chai 2 Station to face legal proceedings. Meanwhile, efforts are underway to track down his accomplice who has taken refuge in Cambodia, reported KhaoSod. Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-28

Father searches for daughter believed to be abducted in Bangkok by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A father is urgently seeking help to locate his daughter, believed to have been abducted due to personal family issues. Her last known location was in Lat Phrao district at 6.23pm yesterday, November 27. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344815-father-searches-for-daughter-believed-to-be-abducted-in-bangkok/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod by Puntid Tantivangphaisal A father is urgently seeking help to locate his daughter, believed to have been abducted due to personal family issues. Her last known location was in Lat Phrao district at 6.23pm yesterday, November 27. The online community has been actively sharing a post by renowned journalist Kitti Singhapad, highlighting the disappearance and requesting public assistance in finding the missing girl. Rose, whose full name is Chalisa Thongyai, was reportedly taken by a group of individuals. The family suspects the incident is related to personal matters at home, as they have previously received threats. Importantly, Rose is not involved in these issues. The last sighting of Rose was at the Lat Phrao District Office, dressed in her KIS International School uniform. The family has filed a report with the Ladprao Police Station but has yet to re-establish contact with their daughter. Anyone with information on Rose’s whereabouts is urged to reach out to her father at 082-2659991, known as Doctor Thongtith. The urgency of this situation is underscored by the widespread sharing of the Facebook post, which aims to gather as much public attention and assistance as possible. The details provided in the post include a description of Rose and her school uniform, hoping to trigger recognition from anyone who might have seen her during the time of her disappearance. “The father urges good citizens to share and help find his daughter,” the post reads, reflecting the family’s desperation and call for public support. The case has drawn significant attention, with many expressing concerns about Chalisa’s safety and well-being. The police are actively investigating the situation, focusing on the family’s claims of previous threats and aiming to uncover any leads that might reveal the girl’s current location. While the details of the personal conflicts leading to this incident remain undisclosed, the priority remains on Rose’s safe return. As the search continues, the family and authorities remain hopeful that Rose will be located soon. The public is encouraged to stay alert and report any information that might assist in bringing Rose back home safely, reported KhaoSod. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-28

Rama II Roadworks Postponed by Five Months Amid Challenges Rama II Road. File photo The much-anticipated completion of the elevated road construction on Rama II, a key transport artery in Samut Sakhon, has sadly hit a snag. Initially set for a June opening next year, the project is now delayed until November 2025. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344813-rama-ii-roadworks-postponed-by-five-months-amid-challenges/

Rama II Road. File photo The much-anticipated completion of the elevated road construction on Rama II, a key transport artery in Samut Sakhon, has sadly hit a snag. Initially set for a June opening next year, the project is now delayed until November 2025. This setback stems from technical complications in constructing the ascending stretches in the Bang Khunthian area, according to the Expressway Authority of Thailand (Exat). The elevated Motorway 82 (M82) spans 4 kilometres and is designed to link the Bang Khunthian, Ekkachai, and Ban Phaeo zones. Once completed, it will act primarily as a diversionary route, absorbing traffic when Rama II Road experiences breakdowns or accidents. This thoroughfare is crucial since it serves as a vital connection for commuters and goods moving in and out of southern Bangkok. Unfortunately, this news of delay may cause concern among those who rely on the road. The construction's postponement means continued congestion woes for some time yet, in a region already notorious for its traffic bottlenecks. Still, the hope is that these additional months will ensure the completion of a safer, more efficient infrastructure. Meanwhile, there’s progress elsewhere. The Rama IX frontage bridge shows promising signs, anticipated to be operational by the end of this year. This structure is part of another concurrent road development that links the Rama III motorway, Dao Khanong, and the Western Beltway. Mr. Chayatan Phromsorn, the permanent secretary for transport, reports that this cable-stayed bridge will alleviate congestion on the crowded Rama IX Bridge. Once the connecting roads in the Suksawat area are built, the new bridge will open to the public, easing daily commutes across the Chao Phraya River, reported Bangkok Post. Both projects are integral to Thailand's broader initiatives to improve road infrastructure and traffic flow in and out of Bangkok. Though setbacks are frustrating, authorities assert that safe and efficient completion is the main priority. The aim is to enhance mobility for residents and support economic activities reliant on this key transportation network. For context, these road infrastructure improvements form part of a broader strategy to support economic growth by reducing logistics costs and addressing chronic congestion issues in and around Bangkok. -- 2024-11-28

Elderly woman trapped by floodwater at home rescued in Yala (video) by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Heavy rainfall in Yala has led to rapid flooding, trapping many residents in their homes. Soldiers quickly responded to rescue efforts, including carrying a bedridden elderly woman to safety on the second floor of her house. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344809-elderly-woman-trapped-by-floodwater-at-home-rescued-in-yala-video/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Heavy rainfall in Yala has led to rapid flooding, trapping many residents in their homes. Soldiers quickly responded to rescue efforts, including carrying a bedridden elderly woman to safety on the second floor of her house. Torrential rain has been pounding the southern Thai province of Yala, causing widespread flooding that has caught many residents off guard. Water levels have risen unexpectedly, leaving people stranded in their homes without time to evacuate. The situation has become increasingly dire, with waters rising swiftly and affecting numerous areas across the province. One particular incident, which gained attention through a video shared by a TikTok user, @pai.chainarong, highlights the commendable efforts of soldiers assisting those in need. The video captures the tense moments as soldiers rush to help an elderly woman who is bedridden and unable to move on her own. With floodwaters beginning to invade her home, the urgency of the situation becomes apparent. “Helping a bedridden grandmother escape the flood to the second floor. Stay strong, grandma. This year, the water came quickly. May everyone stay safe.” The soldiers were alerted to the situation and arrived at a house where the elderly woman was lying on the ground floor, hooked up to an oxygen tube. As water started seeping into the lower level of the house, the soldiers acted swiftly. They carefully lifted the woman and carried her to the safety of the second floor, a move crucial for her well-being as the waters continued to rise. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-28

Mother outraged after seeing son bullied at Thai school by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Sanook A mother intervened after witnessing her child being bullied at school, eventually deciding to transfer the child to a different class. Despite seeking help from teachers, the situation did not improve, highlighting ongoing concerns about bullying in educational settings. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344805-mother-outraged-after-seeing-son-bullied-at-thai-school/

Photo courtesy of Sanook by Puntid Tantivangphaisal A mother intervened after witnessing her child being bullied at school, eventually deciding to transfer the child to a different class. Despite seeking help from teachers, the situation did not improve, highlighting ongoing concerns about bullying in educational settings. Children, especially those in kindergarten, require vigilant supervision from parents and teachers. Lacking self-defence skills, young children can often become targets for those seeking amusement at their expense. A report from a Vietnamese news site recently drew public attention to a distressing incident involving a young boy. This child, wearing a green shirt and black trousers, was bullied by a classmate wearing a green shirt and orange trousers, evoking widespread sympathy and concern. The incident occurred as the boy in black trousers was sitting on the classroom floor, playing cards. The other child not only turned his back and kicked the boy in the face but also sat on his neck, pushing him to the ground. The bullied boy did not retaliate but allowed the torment to continue. His mother, who captured the incident on camera, expressed her sorrow upon witnessing her son being bullied in such a manner. “I know I must teach my child to react to such behaviour but that classmate still enjoys bullying him. Even after seeking help from the teacher, nothing changed. That’s why I decided to transfer my son to a different class and continue teaching him.” The incident sparked outrage among many who condemned the bullying behaviour. Simultaneously, others stressed the importance of teaching children to defend themselves and respond to bullying effectively. Bullying in kindergarten settings is not uncommon. If parents fail to intervene promptly, children may suffer both physical and emotional harm. The dilemma remains whether teaching a child to fight back or to submit is the best solution in such scenarios, reported Sanook. Photo courtesy of Sanook Experts have identified three types of parental approaches when dealing with school bullying: The first approach involves teaching children to surrender. Parents who adhere to this philosophy instruct their children daily to live harmoniously and yield to classmates. If a child is harmed, it is often dismissed as mere play, with no need for retaliation or acknowledgement as bullying. Psychological experts warn this method may result in children becoming shy, lacking confidence, and unwilling to report bullying to parents, believing it will be dismissed as child’s play. The second approach advocates for children to retaliate when harmed. While defending oneself is not inherently wrong, unclear explanations from parents about what constitutes self-defence versus retaliation can lead children to think retaliation is always justified. This may eventually lead them to resort to physical actions instead of verbal communication, making peaceful interactions difficult as they grow older. The third approach advises children to protect themselves without retaliating. “When someone hurts you, protect yourself but don’t retaliate. You might cry loudly, shout, or run away to attract the attention of teachers or adults or ask those around you for help. They will protect you, and that’s how you can protect yourself.” Displaying such behaviour not only helps children protect themselves but also raises awareness about resisting bullying. It encourages the development of a personality that is neither weak nor overly aggressive. For these reasons, experts recommend this approach as the most effective when children are harmed by peers. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-28

Bangkok’s big truck crackdown: Clearing the air one gear at a time by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Nikkei Asia City Hall is gearing up for a major move to clean up Bangkok’s air quality, and the Department of Land Transport (DLT) is calling on all operators of six-wheeled trucks and larger vehicles to gear up for action. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344804-bangkok’s-big-truck-crackdown-clearing-the-air-one-gear-at-a-time/

Picture courtesy of Nikkei Asia by Bob Scott City Hall is gearing up for a major move to clean up Bangkok’s air quality, and the Department of Land Transport (DLT) is calling on all operators of six-wheeled trucks and larger vehicles to gear up for action. The city plans to roll out a groundbreaking Low Emission Zone initiative next year, targeting those notorious medium- and large-sized trucks to take on the city’s choking PM2.5 dust pollution. DLT chief Jirut Wisanjit laid out the scheme yesterday, November 27. If truckers want to hit nine key districts in the heart of Bangkok, they’ll need to play by the rules and register their beasts. It’s not just about signing up, truck operators must keep on top of their engine oil and air filter changes to stay on the right side of the law. Only those trucking titans that toe the line, or run on electric and NGV systems, will be given the green light to enter these zones, hotspots notorious for heavy traffic and sky-high pollution levels, said Wisanjit. “Our mission is crystal clear, we’re out to boost Bangkok’s air quality, stamp out pollution, and make life better for all the city’s residents.” Officials are raising the alarm over Bangkok’s smog situation, where clogged roads and perilous PM2.5 levels are a daily battle. The new programme zeroes in on truck maintenance and registration, ensuring that only eco-friendly rigs cut through the city’s most polluted zones. “This is all about protecting public health and joining the global fight against air pollution.” Truck operators need to get their vehicles in order, meeting the new standards. This bold move by the city underscores a firm commitment to battling pollution and nurturing a healthier environment for all. With the Low Emission Zone plan set to launch next year, the DLT is paving the way for cleaner air and setting the stage for future green policies. Get on board or get left behind! Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-28