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Man arrested after stabbing 2 people at shopping mall in Bangkok A man was arrested shortly after he allegedly attacked two shoppers with a knife at CentralWorld shopping mall in the Ratchaprasong commercial area of Bangkok late yesterday afternoon (Tuesday). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1257253-man-arrested-after-stabbing-2-people-at-shopping-mall-in-bangkok/

A man was arrested shortly after he allegedly attacked two shoppers with a knife at CentralWorld shopping mall in the Ratchaprasong commercial area of Bangkok late yesterday afternoon (Tuesday). A statement, posted by CentralWorld on its Facebook page, said security guards managed to detain the assailant within about five minutes of the attack. Join our daily ASEAN NOW Thailand Newsletter - Click to subscribe Two women were injured and they were rushed to the nearest hospital for treatment. They are now reported to be in a stable condition, said the statement, as it assured shoppers that the mall has systems which can respond quickly to an emergency situation. Full story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/man-arrested-after-stabbing-2-people-at-shopping-mall-in-bangkok/ -- © Copyright Thai PBS 2022-04-20 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. - Follow ASEAN NOW on LINE for breaking COVID-19 updates

Thai activist jailed for one year for exposing details of his sex life behind bars The Appeals Court upheld the Criminal Court’s one-year prison sentence, without suspension, yesterday (Tuesday), which was imposed on political activist Ekachai Hongkangwan for relating his sexual experiences while in prison on his Facebook page. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1257251-thai-activist-jailed-for-one-year-for-exposing-details-of-his-sex-life-behind-bars/

The Appeals Court upheld the Criminal Court’s one-year prison sentence, without suspension, yesterday (Tuesday), which was imposed on political activist Ekachai Hongkangwan for relating his sexual experiences while in prison on his Facebook page. The 47-year-old political activist was convicted of violating the Computer Crime Act by disseminating obscene material. After his conviction, Ekachai’s relatives applied for bail, pending an appeal to the Supreme Court. Join our daily ASEAN NOW Thailand Newsletter - Click to subscribe Full story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/thai-activist-jailed-for-one-year-for-exposing-details-of-his-sex-life-behind-bars/ -- © Copyright Thai PBS 2022-04-20 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. - Follow ASEAN NOW on LINE for breaking COVID-19 updates

Former PM Yingluck Shinawatra issued another arrest warrant The Supreme Court’s Criminal Division for Political Office Holders issued a warrant for the arrest of exiled former prime minister Yingluck Shinawatra today (Tuesday), after she failed to appear for a hearing in a corruption case concerning a roadshow project. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1257250-former-pm-yingluck-shinawatra-issued-another-arrest-warrant/

The Supreme Court’s Criminal Division for Political Office Holders issued a warrant for the arrest of exiled former prime minister Yingluck Shinawatra today (Tuesday), after she failed to appear for a hearing in a corruption case concerning a roadshow project. Yingluck, former deputy prime minister Niwatthamrong Boonsongpaisan and former secretary-general of the prime minister’s office Suranand Vejjajiva are accused of helping Matichon Plc, Siam Sport Syndicate Plc and its managing director Ravi Lohthong to win a contract to hold a roadshow without a proper bidding process. Join our daily ASEAN NOW Thailand Newsletter - Click to subscribe The roadshow included exhibitions, seminars and other activities to promote the “Thailand 2020” project. The charges allege that the corruption occurred between August 2013 and March 2014. Yingluck did not attend the hearing, but she was represented by her lawyer, Noppadon Laothong. Full story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/former-pm-yingluck-shinawatra-issued-another-arrest-warrant/ -- © Copyright Thai PBS 2022-04-20 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. - Follow ASEAN NOW on LINE for breaking COVID-19 updates

My thoughts on first becoming an expat in Thailand and a to-do list by Michael Bridge There is real reason I decided to leave the UK was my accountant at the time said I could save a shed load of tax. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1257249-my-thoughts-on-first-becoming-an-expat-in-thailand-and-a-to-do-list/

by Michael Bridge There is real reason I decided to leave the UK was my accountant at the time said I could save a shed load of tax. At the time my marriage was collapsing, the kids were all past Uni, and I was spending more time running my business overseas than living in London. At first my move to Dubai was mainly for work reasons, so my company paid for my visa and everything with a UAE sponsor went smoothly. However, when the crash happened in 2009, overnight our business imploded and like many expats I had to decide where to go and quickly. Some might say the obvious choice was to move back to the UK, but I had grown used to the warmer climate and did not fancy living in London’s winter again. But my first choice was what to do career-wise, as I was not ready to retire. At the time, I enjoyed playing golf and had been used to writing and had some journalistic skills. I, therefore, thought of giving up my exhibition organizer career and looked into publishing. First, I started researching what countries did not have an English language golf magazine. Join our daily ASEAN NOW Thailand Newsletter - Click to subscribe I looked around and up came Thailand With over 250 golf courses, it had a thriving golf vacation industry, several big golf tournaments but no English golf magazines aimed at expats or international golf vacationers. I had travelled to Thailand several times before, even holidaying in Bangkok and Pattaya back in the early seventies. However, I did travel out there for a week’s reconnaissance and found the rental rates good and the climate ideal. Now in my case, I was happy to travel east from Dubai as I enjoyed the different lifestyle than glitzy Dubai. I remember it took me some time to accept the smells of Bangkok, the constant noise of the traffic, the broken pavements and even having to cope with rats on every corner. I felt happier in the Centre of town in a high-rise condominium, however, others might have ventured further out to rent a house. You did have to get used to playing the game, by using an agent to arrange your work permit and visas which were quite expensive. I managed to find friends through the condominium (the swimming pool was very social) and at golf tournaments and soon settled in. After a fairly dramatic couple of years with the red shirt demonstrations and bombs and fitting in the streets, I decided to find a quieter base. I chose Pratamnak where I now have lived for the past ten years. To do list: First research all the main cities and resorts online. Check their climate, as Phuket and say Koh Chang islands have perhaps more varied and wetter climates than say Pattaya. I would recommend going to live in your selected destination at least for 3-4 weeks staying in a condo or villa rather than a hotel. then you get a feel for the place as a resident. Meet a good agency that can handle visas, work permits and driving licences. Pay a bit extra and they will get it all done for you. Finally, go to some of the local expat clubs and golf groups etc; and talk to the members who will be able to give you all the low down. -- © Copyright ASEAN NOW 2022-04-20 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. - Follow ASEAN NOW on LINE for breaking COVID-19 updates Get your business in front of millions of customers who read ASEAN NOW with an interest in Thailand every month - email [email protected] for more information

to continue: Thailand Live Wednesday 20 April 2022 https://aseannow.com/topic/1257247-thailand-live-wednesday-20-april-2022/

Two die in summer storms, thousands of houses damaged, mostly in North Two people died, three others were injured and more than 3,200 houses were damaged by summer storms which struck 21 of Thailand’s provinces with gusty winds and rain between last Saturday and today (Tuesday). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1257209-two-die-in-summer-storms-thousands-of-houses-damaged-mostly-in-north/

Fewer COVID-19 tests may result in fewer infections reported during Songkran – DDC The steady fall in daily COVID-19 infections during the Songkran holidays can be deceptive and may not reflect the real situation, as fewer RT-PCR and rapid antigen tests were conducted during the period, according to Dr. Chakkarat Pittayawonganon, director of the Division of Epidemiology, Disease Control Department, yesterday (Tuesday). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1257210-fewer-covid-19-tests-may-result-in-fewer-infections-reported-during-songkran-–-ddc/

Thai Tourism Industry Hopes for More Chinese Travelers in October by Na-ark Rojanasuvan BANGKOK (NNT) - The Thai tourism industry is hoping to see more Chinese visitors during Golden Week in October. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1257200-thai-tourism-industry-hopes-for-more-chinese-travelers-in-october/

by Na-ark Rojanasuvan BANGKOK (NNT) - The Thai tourism industry is hoping to see more Chinese visitors during Golden Week in October. Every year, China National Day is celebrated on October 1 to commemorate the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1949. Chinese nationals enjoy a 7-day holiday from October 1-7, known as Golden Week. Vichit Prakobgosol, vice president of the Tourism Council of Thailand, said that if the Thai government is able to fully reopen the country within the second quarter, the Kingdom would still have a chance to attract at least 5 million international tourists during the second half of 2022. He reiterated that the sooner Thailand fully reopens, the more competitive it will be as a tourist destination. Furthermore, if China lifts additional international travel restrictions for its citizens in the fourth quarter, the total number of foreign tourists to the kingdom could reach 7-8 million by year-end. Keep up to date with all things Thailand - Join our daily ASEAN NOW Thailand Newsletter - Click to subscribe Vichit also projected that Thailand would regain 70% of its pre-pandemic tourist numbers next year and 100% by 2024. The vice president noted, however, that many travel businesses have been unable to resume operations due to financial shortcomings. He added that since the pandemic, tourists have begun traveling in smaller groups, participating in more free-form tourism programs, and prioritizing relaxation activities. They have also been spending extended periods of time within hotel grounds and developing an affinity for specific urban restaurants. These shifts in travel habits pose further challenges for tour operators whose business models are based around large groups and scheduled programs, as well as shopping and dining in suburban areas. -- © Copyright NNT 2022-04-19 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. - Follow ASEAN NOW on LINE for breaking COVID-19 updates

Six-Lane Road Linking Samut Prakan and Chachoengsao Now Operational by Paul Rujopakarn BANGKOK (NNT) - The Bang Pu-Bang Pakong road linking Samut Prakan and Chachoengsao provinces is now fully operational. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1257198-six-lane-road-linking-samut-prakan-and-chachoengsao-now-operational/

by Paul Rujopakarn BANGKOK (NNT) - The Bang Pu-Bang Pakong road linking Samut Prakan and Chachoengsao provinces is now fully operational. The 28.75 km road was given a facelift, expanding its width from two lanes to six. The 2.1 billion baht construction project is expected to greatly facilitate domestic logistics, especially within the Eastern Economic Corridor encompassing Rayong, Chonburi, and Chachoengsao. Several factories located along the road will also likely benefit from its expansion, as it provides an additional logistical route for delivering goods between Chonburi, Chachoengsao, Samut Prakan, and Bangkok. According to the Department of Highways, the project was deemed necessary due to the route seeing increased traffic in recent years. The expanded route also aligns with government efforts to make Thailand the logistics hub of ASEAN, while reducing travel costs and time as well as improving safety for motorists. It is also expected to help alleviate traffic jams, particularly during long holidays. The Department of Highways said it hopes the newly renovated road will greatly improve the quality of life for residents in the Eastern region. -- © Copyright NNT 2022-04-19 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. - Follow ASEAN NOW on LINE for breaking COVID-19 updates

Thailand, along with 88 other countries, removed from US ‘Don’t Travel’ list The United States’ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has removed Thailand and 88 other countries from its “Do Not Travel” list, effective today (Tuesday). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1257197-thailand-along-with-88-other-countries-removed-from-us-‘don’t-travel’-list/

The United States’ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has removed Thailand and 88 other countries from its “Do Not Travel” list, effective today (Tuesday). Thailand is now categorised as Level 3, or a country with a “high” level of COVID-19. Travellers who are not fully vaccinated are still advised not to travel to Level 3 countries, but the warning does not apply to fully vaccinated visitors. Travellers with weakened immune systems are also urged to check with doctors before visiting. Keep up to date with all things Thailand - Join our daily ASEAN NOW Thailand Newsletter - Click to subscribe Countries with a low level of COVID-19 are categorised as Level 1, while countries with a moderate level are classified as Level 2. Currently, there are no countries categorised as Level 4, which will now be reserved for special circumstances, where countries see a dangerous spike in COVID-19 cases, a new COVID-19 variant or a collapse of their health care infrastructure. Full story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/thailand-along-with-88-other-countries-removed-from-us-dont-travel-list/ -- © Copyright Thai PBS 2022-04-19 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. - Follow ASEAN NOW on LINE for breaking COVID-19 updates

Thailand Aims to Establish Product Distribution Center in China by Na-ark Rojanasuvan BANGKOK (NNT) - Thailand is expected to sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Chinese state enterprise sector to establish a Thai product distribution center in China. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1257196-thailand-aims-to-establish-product-distribution-center-in-china/

by Na-ark Rojanasuvan BANGKOK (NNT) - Thailand is expected to sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Chinese state enterprise sector to establish a Thai product distribution center in China. Kriangsak Prateepvisarut, director of the Thai Public Warehouse Organization (PWO), revealed that the signing ceremony will soon be held in the city of Guangzhou. He explained that the center will allow Thai exporters to deposit their goods, which will then be distributed to other cities in China. Additionally, the PWO will seek partnerships to distribute Thai items on Chinese online shopping platforms. The move is intended to broaden the distribution channel for Thai goods and bring in additional revenue. The new distribution center will be the second of its kind, following the PWO’s collaboration with Myanmar’s Maha Shwe Ngwe Company Limited on the first. Kraingsak said the PWO aims to build additional distribution facilities in regions such as India and the Middle East. Join our daily ASEAN NOW Thailand Newsletter - Click to subscribe Domestically, the PWO is looking to establish warehouses for agricultural and livestock products in Krabi, Phatthalung, the northeastern provinces, and the three southern border provinces. Furthermore, the PWO plans to increase the capacity of the Rat Burana Warehouse to 50,000 metric tons, making it the biggest cold storage facility in Bangkok. The move is projected to net the PWO at least 400 million baht in annual revenue. -- © Copyright NNT 2022-04-19 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. - Follow ASEAN NOW on LINE for breaking COVID-19 updates

No vote but strong opinions: Bangkok expats ponder governor election Most expatriates in Bangkok have no right to vote in the May 22 gubernatorial election, yet the outcome affects their everyday lives just as much as those of other residents. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1257194-no-vote-but-strong-opinions-bangkok-expats-ponder-governor-election/

Most expatriates in Bangkok have no right to vote in the May 22 gubernatorial election, yet the outcome affects their everyday lives just as much as those of other residents. The quality of life in this city of around 10 million residents relies on how effectively the governor and Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) deal with the Big Mango’s big challenges, including traffic congestion, waste disposal, pollution, and flooding. Keep up to date with all things Thailand - Join our daily ASEAN NOW Thailand Newsletter - Click to subscribe Certainly, the Bangkok governor and the BMA alone have insufficient authority and money for large infrastructure projects — so they need to cooperate with the central government and relevant state agencies. Thai PBS World talks to long-term expats in Bangkok about their views on candidates and their policy platforms, as well as what the next governor should do to make the Thai capital a better home for its residents. Full story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/no-vote-but-strong-opinions-bangkok-expats-ponder-governor-election/ -- © Copyright Thai PBS 2022-04-19 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. - Follow ASEAN NOW on LINE for breaking COVID-19 updates

Democrat party leader offers public apology over sexual abuse controversy Deputy Prime Minister and Democrat Party Leader Jurin Laksanawisit offered a public apology this morning (Tuesday) over the sexual abuse scandal implicating its former deputy leader, Prinn Panitchpakdi, and announced his resignation as chair of two national committees on gender equality and women’s policies. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1257193-democrat-party-leader-offers-public-apology-over-sexual-abuse-controversy/

Deputy Prime Minister and Democrat Party Leader Jurin Laksanawisit offered a public apology this morning (Tuesday) over the sexual abuse scandal implicating its former deputy leader, Prinn Panitchpakdi, and announced his resignation as chair of two national committees on gender equality and women’s policies. “As leader of the Democrat party, I am profoundly sorry and take this opportunity to apologise for everything that has happened concerning one of the party’s personnel,” said Jurin during a press conference at the party’s head office. Join our daily ASEAN NOW Thailand Newsletter - Click to subscribe As head of the party, who had a key role in bringing Prinn into the party and, even though the latter’s admission to the party had gone through the executive committee and was approved by the general assembly of the party, he said that he cannot dodge the responsibility and must try to resolve the problem. Full story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/democrat-party-leader-offers-public-apology-over-sexual-abuse-controversy/ -- © Copyright Thai PBS 2022-04-19 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. - Follow ASEAN NOW on LINE for breaking COVID-19 updates

Nine vehicle collision in the rain on Nakhon-In Road, Nonthaburi Picture: 77kaoded 77kaoded reported that there was a nine vehicle mostly concertina collision after heavy rain in the Nonthaburi area on Nakhon-In Road. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1257191-nine-vehicle-collision-in-the-rain-on-nakhon-in-road-nonthaburi/

Picture: 77kaoded 77kaoded reported that there was a nine vehicle mostly concertina collision after heavy rain in the Nonthaburi area on Nakhon-In Road. It was expected to take the authorities an hour before traffic was flowing again at the tail end of yesterday's evening rush hour. Cars and pick-ups were involved. Join our daily ASEAN NOW Thailand Newsletter - Click to subscribe Picture: 77kaoded One lady in a Mazda aged 29 said she was driving from the the Rama 5 bridge and there was heavy rain so she was going slowly but someone else swerving to avoid the pile-up went into her path. Bangsri Muang police are dealing with the aftermath in which five cars were badly damaged. -- © Copyright ASEAN NOW 2022-04-19 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. - Follow ASEAN NOW on LINE for breaking COVID-19 updates Get your business in front of millions of customers who read ASEAN NOW with an interest in Thailand every month - email [email protected] for more information Picture: 77kaoded Picture: 77kaoded Picture: 77kaoded