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Trang Airport terminal to open by late 2025 amid project delays by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The Transport Ministry directed an expedited effort to complete the new passenger terminal at Trang Airport, aiming for its operation by the close of next year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342631-trang-airport-terminal-to-open-by-late-2025-amid-project-delays/

The Transport Ministry directed an expedited effort to complete the new passenger terminal at Trang Airport, aiming for its operation by the close of next year. This directive comes from Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri, following a petition from a civic group in the southern province urging the government to resume the 1.6-billion-baht project, halted by the contractor about six months ago near its completion. The new terminal is vital to a more extensive project to modernise Trang Airport. This includes plans to expand the runway and enhance the airport’s facilities. The terminal is designed to accommodate 1,200 passengers per hour, translating roughly to 3.4 million passengers annually. It will boast two aircraft concourses and a parking facility for 1,000 vehicles. “The new terminal must be operational by the end of 2025 to support the growth of the province’s tourism sector.” Manaporn emphasised the need for coordination with the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) to evaluate the airport’s handling systems for aircraft, cargo, and passengers. This review would also consider integrating immigration, customs, health, and animal quarantine checkpoints to facilitate future international flights. Additionally, plans are underway to extend the airport’s current 2,100-metre runway to 2,990 metres, incorporating new electrical systems to manage up to 14 mid-sized aircraft simultaneously, including models like the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320. The runway enhancement is 36% complete, with a target completion date of January 2026. “The upgraded runway will allow the airport to accommodate larger aircraft, providing the public with more options and competitive pricing.” Danai Raungsorn, the Director-General of the Department of Airports (DoA), attributed the delay in the terminal’s construction to the contractor’s financial difficulties. He noted that a warning was issued to the contractor on April 22, outlining the terms for contract termination and associated penalties. “Despite assurances from the contractor to resume work by October 5, no progress has been made since our last meeting.” A committee within the DoA resolved to terminate the contract on October 30. The board is currently in the process of selecting new contractors to ensure the project’s completion within the stipulated timeframe, reported Bangkok Post. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-05

Middle East Conflict Drives Thailand's Canned Tuna Export Boom Picture courtesy: thansettakij The conflict in the Middle East, notably between Israel and Hamas, has indirectly boosted Thailand's economy, specifically in the canned tuna sector. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342627-middle-east-conflict-drives-thailands-canned-tuna-export-boom/

Picture courtesy: thansettakij The conflict in the Middle East, notably between Israel and Hamas, has indirectly boosted Thailand's economy, specifically in the canned tuna sector. The country's Ministry of Commerce recently highlighted an impressive upswing in canned tuna exports to the Middle East, credited largely to the ongoing conflict which erupted on 7 October 2023. With escalating tensions and resultant supply chain disturbances within the region, there's a heightened demand for essential foods, including Thai-produced canned tuna. Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, head of the Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO) under the Department of Foreign Trade, reported a significant increase: Thai canned tuna exports to the Middle East surged by 20.73% in the first nine months of 2024, translating to a revenue boost to 65.98 billion baht. Beyond geopolitical influences, several other factors play into this export boom. Economic recovery in major markets such as the United States, Europe, and Australia is steering a global demand resurgence for canned foods, including Thai tuna. Additionally, evolving consumer preferences favouring convenience and health-conscious choices drive further demand. This trend is not limited to traditional human consumption; Thailand is also a leading exporter of pet feeds derived from imported tuna, marking its importance in international tuna supply chains. Thailand's position as a major player in the global tuna trade not only underscores its importance in the food supply chain but also showcases how external crises can create unexpected economic opportunities for certain sectors. As conflicts alter regional demands, countries like Thailand can seize these opportunities to spur economic growth, reported Thai PBS. -- 2024-11-05

Ko Kut's Status Affirmed by Thai PM Amid Border Marquees Picture courtesy: National News Bureau of Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, following talks with coalition leaders, has firmly stated that Ko Kut is unequivocally recognised as Thai territory under a longstanding treaty with France. This declaration comes amidst public intrigue over the island's status, though Cambodia harbours no claims against it. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342621-ko-kuts-status-affirmed-by-thai-pm-amid-border-marquees/

Picture courtesy: National News Bureau of Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, following talks with coalition leaders, has firmly stated that Ko Kut is unequivocally recognised as Thai territory under a longstanding treaty with France. This declaration comes amidst public intrigue over the island's status, though Cambodia harbours no claims against it. The origin of these misconceptions is thought to be internal confusion rather than foreign claims. Paetongtarn reassured the Thai populace of Ko Kut's rightful place within Thailand. "MOU44", a framework for Thai-Cambodian negotiations over overlapping maritime areas, remains active. This agreement focuses exclusively on sea boundaries, leaving Ko Kut untouched. The Prime Minister stressed that unilateral cancellation isn't feasible since it requires bilateral accord. She highlighted that diplomatic discussions on maritime boundaries must be handled by a restructured Thai committee, following the recent government change. While Cambodia's committee is prepared, Thailand's needs organisation before negotiations resume. Paetongtarn dismissed notions that honouring the MOU equates to accepting Cambodia’s boundary views. Instead, the MOU serves as a diplomatic tool for resolving disparities peacefully. Thailand's maritime boundaries, set in 1973, necessitated the MOU due to differences with Cambodia's 1972 lines. She clarified misconceptions about alleged unilateral revocation of MOU44 by a past administration, pointing out that such moves require mutual consent. While some argue for the MOU's cancellation to preclude disputes, Paetongtarn emphasised the agreement's role in facilitating dialogue and preventing legal contention. Paetongtarn prioritised maintaining amicable relations and urged against political issues influencing international diplomacy. Coalition partners endorse continuing MOU44 discussions. The Prime Minister underscored her duty to protect Thailand’s territorial integrity, assuring commitment to national interests and regional unity, reported The Nation. -- 2024-11-05

Thai Police Chief Launches Crackdown on Foreign Criminals in 15-Point Plan Picture courtesy: Daily News Thailand’s National Police Chief, Pol Gen Kittirat Panpet, has introduced a robust 15-point strategy to crack down on foreign criminals, combat cross-border crime, and enhance public safety. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342616-thai-police-chief-launches-crackdown-on-foreign-criminals-in-15-point-plan/

Picture courtesy: Daily News Thailand’s National Police Chief, Pol Gen Kittirat Panpet, has introduced a robust 15-point strategy to crack down on foreign criminals, combat cross-border crime, and enhance public safety. Announced on 4 November, the plan emphasises stricter immigration control, intensified surveillance of criminal networks involving foreigners, and increased cooperation with border and immigration authorities to prevent illegal entry. Pol Gen Kittirat, speaking at National Police Headquarters in Bangkok, outlined his vision for the fiscal year 2025, calling for stronger security measures and police reforms that prioritise public safety and transparency. The 15-point agenda underscores his commitment to tackling organised crime, especially when it involves foreign nationals engaged in unlawful activities in Thailand. Senior police officials from across the nation attended the meeting, signalling a united front in the intensified effort. The police chief specifically addressed the problem of foreign criminals who enter Thailand illegally or violate visa conditions, saying these individuals pose risks to Thai communities and the economy. In response, the Immigration Bureau and Tourist Police have been instructed to take a hard line on undocumented workers and foreign criminals, preventing unauthorised entry and swiftly apprehending those who engage in illegal activities. Picture courtesy: Daily News According to Gen Kittirat, this crackdown will target those who disrupt the lives of Thai citizens, engage in organised crime, or unfairly compete in the local job market. The new policy also includes a campaign to enhance the integrity and professionalism of the police force. Gen Kittirat highlighted the need for officers to set a high standard, warning that corruption or misconduct would not be tolerated. He reiterated that police must work transparently to gain the public's trust, stating, "We are building a new generation of police who serve the community with honesty and dedication." Further measures involve increased monitoring of key areas where foreign criminals are known to operate, and coordination with neighbouring countries to prevent cross-border crime. Gen Kittirat's team has been tasked with tightening security protocols along Thailand's borders and ensuring that police are prepared to respond to emerging threats. A central component of the plan is the development of a new "Cyber Check" app, expected to launch in the coming year, aimed at safeguarding personal data for Thai citizens. This tool will help protect individuals from online fraud and misuse of personal information by enabling users to verify phone numbers and bank details. Gen Kittirat also prioritised fair treatment for law-abiding foreign nationals, urging officers to treat them respectfully and adhere to lawful procedures. However, he underscored that anyone found violating the law, regardless of nationality, would face strict penalties. The policy marks a shift in Thailand's approach to foreign-related crime, signalling a tougher stance against those who unlawfully enter or engage in criminal activity within the country, reported Daily News. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-11-05

Thailand Among Top 4 Nations Most at Risk from Severe Flooding File photo source: Wikipedia With unusual weather patterns taking hold globally, Thailand stands prominently among nations most threatened by flooding in 2024. The World Bank's recent insights highlight that around 1.47 billion individuals worldwide are at heightened risk from river floods, torrential rains, and coastal erosion. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342614-thailand-among-top-4-nations-most-at-risk-from-severe-flooding/

File photo source: Wikipedia With unusual weather patterns taking hold globally, Thailand stands prominently among nations most threatened by flooding in 2024. The World Bank's recent insights highlight that around 1.47 billion individuals worldwide are at heightened risk from river floods, torrential rains, and coastal erosion. This grim statistic puts an overwhelming 89% of those at risk in lower- and middle-income regions, especially South and East Asia. Of these affected, approximately 225 million people reside in India and 329 million in China, underscoring the vulnerability of the Asian region. Southeast Asia's geography—a mix of tropical storms, vast monsoon rains, and inadequate flood defences—remains particularly susceptible. Thailand, however, is notably suffering this year. As reported by Statista in March 2024, evaluating annual flood impacts on populations, Thailand ranks high on the flood risk index at 9.8. Other nations sharing this critical position include Vietnam, Egypt, and Bangladesh, slightly higher at 9.9, with Myanmar and Cambodia also listed. In the ongoing rainy season, Thailand's northern areas have been severely inundated, with central parts, including Bangkok, anticipating above-average rainfall. From January through August, rainfall exceeded standard levels by 5%, with forecasts predicting up to 900 mm in the ensuing months. Economically, these floods are striking a heavy blow. Projections indicate that approximately 8.6 million rai (or 1.38 million hectares) of farmland will be affected, leading to agricultural and property losses totalling 46.5 billion baht. This situation is predicted to dent Thailand's GDP by around 0.27%, reported Tha Nation. This intensifying pattern emphasises the urgent need for improved infrastructure and sustainable solutions in combating climate-related disasters, crucial for safeguarding Thailand's future against recurrent devastating floods. -- 2024-11-05

Thailand Sends Workers to Israel Amid Conflict Risks Picture courtesy: Israel Travel Secrets Thailand's Department of Employment has announced plans to send 800 workers to Israel this month, despite the escalating conflict in the region. This decision comes as Thai interest in working opportunities in Israel remains high, according to DoE chief, Somchai Morakotsriwan, speaking on Monday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342613-thailand-sends-workers-to-israel-amid-conflict-risks/

Picture courtesy: Israel Travel Secrets Thailand's Department of Employment has announced plans to send 800 workers to Israel this month, despite the escalating conflict in the region. This decision comes as Thai interest in working opportunities in Israel remains high, according to DoE chief, Somchai Morakotsriwan, speaking on Monday. Mr. Somchai assured that these workers would be deployed only to safe areas, underscoring that employment agencies are prohibited from sending Thai workers to conflict zones in northern Israel. In the event of further escalation between Israel and Hezbollah, Mr. Somchai mentioned that the government has prepared plans to evacuate workers to safety. The Labour Ministry is in dialogue with the Israeli Embassy in Bangkok to address concerns. Explaining the rationale behind the deployment, Mr. Somchai noted that halting operations would not guarantee worker safety, as individuals often find alternative, unmonitored routes to Israel, complicating government efforts to offer protection. As evidence of high demand, a recent recruitment event at Chiang Rai Rajabhat University attracted thousands hoping to work in Israel. Marius Savescu, representing an Israeli recruitment agency, stated that Israeli companies seek to fill around 2,000 positions, primarily for carpenters, ironsmiths, bricklayers, and tilers. Many firms prefer male candidates aged 25-45. Savescu highlighted the increasing need for labour in Israel, estimating 3,000-4,000 additional workers are required in the construction sector before year-end. This demand could soar to 10,000 by the next year. In 2023, 2,174 residents from Chiang Rai were employed in Israel. The recent Hamas attack, however, resulted in three deaths, one injury, and two hostages among Thai workers. Following Hezbollah's rocket attack in Metula, which claimed four Thai lives, Mr. Somchai confirmed the Labour Ministry's ongoing talks with Israeli authorities regarding repatriation and compensation under Israeli labour laws. The Overseas Employment Fund will also assist victims' families, providing 40,000 baht for funeral costs and 40,000 baht for descendants, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-11-05

NACC Urged to Seek PM's Insight on Thaksin's Hospital Treatment Paetongtarn Shinawatra. File photo The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has been encouraged to directly request information from Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra regarding her father, the de facto leader of the Pheu Thai party, Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342601-nacc-urged-to-seek-pms-insight-on-thaksins-hospital-treatment/

Paetongtarn Shinawatra. File photo The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has been encouraged to directly request information from Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra regarding her father, the de facto leader of the Pheu Thai party, Thaksin Shinawatra's treatment at the Police Hospital. Thai Liberal leader Seripisut Temiyavej has urged the NACC to obtain concrete details as they have yet to receive the necessary information from hospital authorities. Prime Minister Paetongtarn refrained from commenting when questioned about the NACC's efforts to acquire details surrounding her father's medical care. Thaksin, embroiled in multiple lawsuits, is accused of wielding excessive influence over Thailand's Pheu Thai party members. Seripisut suggested that the NACC might also approach Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, who oversees military and police affairs. Phumtham is considered a close ally of Thaksin, who is alleged to have overstated his illness, securing a six-month stay in a hospital instead of serving his year-long prison sentence for previous misconduct upon returning from self-exile last year. Furthermore, Seripisut declined to testify before the House Committee on National Security on Thursday regarding Thaksin's alleged misuse of medical privileges. He cited concerns about revealing "factual, significant secrets" to committee members who are also Pheu Thai MPs potentially loyal to Thaksin. Previously addressing an NACC panel on this matter, Seripisut admitted to visiting Thaksin at the hospital twice before his parole release earlier this year. His long-standing acquaintance with Thaksin dates back to their days as fellow graduates of the Police Academy, even if their careers followed different paths within the police force. The NACC's investigation into Thaksin’s hospital stay remains a point of contention amidst political scrutiny and ongoing legal battles, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-11-05

Pattaya Tightens Safety Rules for Beach Operators Amid Tourist Surge Photo: The Pattaya News Pattaya officials, spearheaded by Mayor Mr. Poramase Ngampiches, conducted a thorough inspection of Pattaya Beach on Saturday. The aim was to ensure that speedboat and jet ski operators adhere to newly instated safety regulations, a key component of the ongoing "Better Pattaya Bay" project. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342585-pattaya-tightens-safety-rules-for-beach-operators-amid-tourist-surge/

Loy Kratong Festival to Boost Tourism Revenue Picture courtesy: Wikipedia As temperatures cool with the onset of the cold season, the Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation (DNP) has unveiled over 300 nature trails across Thailand, welcoming adventure enthusiasts to explore the country’s diverse landscapes. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342577-loy-kratong-festival-to-boost-tourism-revenue/

Private car blocks emergency vehicle, patient dies in Samut Prakan Image courtesy of Sanook Yesterday, November 3, at roughly 9.30pm, a car obstructed an emergency vehicle in Samut Prakan, ultimately resulting in a patient’s death. Despite lights and sirens, the car’s driver refused to yield for over a minute, causing delays for the rescue team. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342559-private-car-blocks-emergency-vehicle-patient-dies-in-samut-prakan/

to continue: Thailand Live Tuesday 5 November 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1342575-thailand-live-tuesday-5-november-2024/

Car Plunges from Condominium Parking Lot in Bangkok’s Pinklao Area An incident occurred during the morning, when a car crashed through a parking lot wall and plunged from a condominium in the Pinklao area, startling residents, but only causing minor injuries to the driver. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342554-car-plunges-from-condominium-parking-lot-in-bangkok’s-pinklao-area/

Picture courtesy: Wikipedia As temperatures cool with the onset of the cold season, the Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation (DNP) has unveiled over 300 nature trails across Thailand, welcoming adventure enthusiasts to explore the country’s diverse landscapes. Atthaphon Charoenchansa, DNP director-general, highlighted that these paths collectively span over 900 kilometres, with distances varying from brief 100-metre jaunts to lengthy 64-kilometre treks. This year's standout addition is the San Phaya Nak nature trail in Phu Laen Kha National Park, Chaiyaphum. Developed as an eco-tourism trail, it offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and local ecosystems. Other noteworthy trails include the Ton Phra Chao Ha Phraong trail in Nan's Tham Sa Koen National Park and a long-distance hiking path at Khao Luang in Prachuap Khiri Khan’s Namtok Huai Yang National Park. In Northern Thailand, visitors often flock to trails in Doi Phu Kha National Park, Nan, as well as the much-loved Kew Mae Pan trail in Chiang Mai’s Doi Inthanon National Park. The Phu Chi Fa Peak viewpoint in Chiang Rai's Phu Chi Fa National Park is another popular destination. Picture courtesy: Wikipedia The central region, famed for its hiking opportunities, doesn’t disappoint, with Khao Yai National Park offering various routes, including the Mokochu trail in Mae Wong National Park, Kamphaeng Phet, and longer treks in Khlong Wang Chao National Park, straddling Kamphaeng Phet and Tak. Meanwhile, the western and southern territories boast enchanting routes like the Yang Na Forest Nature Trail in Ao Siam National Park, Prachuap Khiri Khan. Southern treks include Lam Nam Kra Buri National Park paths in Ranong and the trails in Surat Thani’s Khlong Phanom National Park. Moreover, wildlife sanctuaries such as Chiang Dao Wildlife Sanctuary are showcased for their rich biodiversity, while Phu Luang and Doi Mon Chong Wildlife Sanctuaries offer unique montane forest experiences, reported Bangkok Post. To ensure an enjoyable and safe journey, the DNP is providing 24-hour security, interpretative signage, and rest areas along these trials, encouraging both local and international tourists to rediscover Thailand’s natural heritage. -- 2024-11-04

Famous Malaysian Singer Arrested in Thailand on Drug Charges Picture courtesy: Channel 3 News Police in Sungai Kolok, Narathiwat, detained popular Malaysian singer Wan Norshaheeda Azlin Binti Wan Ismail, 28, along with five others in a drug bust involving 6,060 methamphetamine pills. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342572-famous-malaysian-singer-arrested-in-thailand-on-drug-charges/

Picture courtesy: Channel 3 News Police in Sungai Kolok, Narathiwat, detained popular Malaysian singer Wan Norshaheeda Azlin Binti Wan Ismail, 28, along with five others in a drug bust involving 6,060 methamphetamine pills. The arrest took place at a Genting hotel in Sungai Kolok in the early hours of November 1, leading to a large gathering of her fans and relatives at the station. Supporters, including some who crossed from Kelantan, Malaysia, came to show support, and one elderly relative fainted at the station entrance, requiring emergency care. Over 50 officers were deployed to manage the crowd of over 100 fans and relatives, eager to offer their encouragement. Police escorted the group, including Wan Norshaheeda and the other suspects - Mohamad Alif Bin Deraman, Mohd Affendi Bin Ahmad, Nur Aida Binti Mamat, Erdieka Bin Mohd Noor, and Zuhaira Nasrin - safely through the courthouse proceedings. All suspects appeared in court with faces obscured by caps and sunglasses. The case has attracted considerable attention in Malaysia, with undercover Malaysian police and journalists present at the Sungai Kolok station. According to Malaysian law enforcement sources, authorities had been monitoring the group for suspected drug activities prior to their arrest in Thailand. Preliminary tests on all six individuals returned positive for drug use, specifically methamphetamine. Erdieka Bin Mohd Noor and Zuhaira Nasrin face additional charges for illegal entry into Thailand, as their passports lacked proper immigration stamps. Each suspect will now present their statements to the court, with authorities continuing their investigation, reported Channel 3 News. -- 2024-11-04

Thai transwoman assaulted by Chinese man for rejecting him (video) by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ The Direct A Thai transwoman filed a complaint against a Chinese man for physically assaulting her after she rejected his advances in an entertainment venue car park in the eastern province of Rayong on Saturday, November 2. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342531-thai-transwoman-assaulted-by-chinese-man-for-rejecting-him-video/

A Thai transwoman filed a complaint against a Chinese man for physically assaulting her after she rejected his advances in an entertainment venue car park in the eastern province of Rayong on Saturday, November 2. The 25 year old transgender victim, whose name remains undisclosed, reported the physical assault to Pluak Daeng Police Station and shared CCTV footage from the car park of the entertainment venue with officers. In the footage, the man in a yellow T-shirt, reportedly a Chinese national, approached the transwoman and attacked her. He pulled her hair, threw her to the ground, and punched her in the head. The victim’s friends and a bar security guard then intervened to stop the assault. The transwoman gave an interview with Channel 7 on November 3, explaining that the Chinese man approached her from behind while she was with her friends at the bar around midnight on November 2. The man repeatedly tried to clink glasses with her two to four times that night. The transgender victim believed the Chinese man was flirting with her but she was not interested. Later, around 2am, she and her friends left the entertainment venue and walked to their car. The Chinese man followed them and attacked the victim, as seen in the video. The transwoman also shared images of her injuries with the media, showing wounds on her feet and knees. She obtained a medical report to submit to the police as evidence. As of now, Pluak Daeng Police Station has not yet provided an update on the case. In a related incident, reported on November 1, a Thai man attacked a 19 year old transwoman in the Isaan province of Buriram. The attacker later confessed that his girlfriend accused the transwoman of criticising her on social media. The girlfriend then asked him to assault the transgender victim. The couple told the media they believed they could end the legal proceedings by paying the victim 500 baht as friends used to do so. However, the victim insisted on processing the charge against the couple. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ The Direct Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-04

Poll position: US election could rattle global markets, says ASPS by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Medical Device and Diagnostic industry Asia Plus Securities (ASPS) is urging investors to pay close attention to the forthcoming US election, predicting it is set to send shockwaves through global markets. With expectations of heightened volatility, ASPS has delivered a stern warning: it’s time to back stocks boasting low volatility and stellar third-quarter performances for 2024. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342528-poll-position-us-election-could-rattle-global-markets-says-asps/