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De Cuyper: Thailand’s medical and wellness tourism sector can benefit from the rise of cannabis tourism By Duncan Forgan Cannabis tourism is poised to become a growth market in Thailand as the Kingdom’s relationship with marijuana goes back overground. Thailand was the first South-east Asian country to legalise the production, import, and export of cannabis for medical purposes in 2018. This year, Thai authorities approved the de facto decriminalisation of marijuana but left a grey area around its recreational use. These moves, say observers, are fostering an environment where cannabis tourism can help resuscitate an industry that has been badly battered by the global pandemic. Indeed, many feel Thailand’s relaxed regulations could lead to a surge in medical and wellness tourism where marijuana is utilised as a key component. “Thailand is well known as a destination for medical tourism and wellness travel. So, these sectors will surely benefit from the latest developments,” opined Dirk De Cuyper, CEO of S Hotels and Resorts. Full story: https://www.ttgasia.com/2022/02/24/thai-hospitality-players-move-in-on-cannabis-tourism/ -- © Copyright TTG ASIA 2022-02-25 - Aetna 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

By Natcha Patanasophon A cartoon illustration has caused heated debate over sexual harassment and victim blaming in the workplace. It all started when a hugely popular Facebook account under the name, “Contrast,” posted a new illustration this week. Contrast is a digital content creator who delivers social stories with different perspectives. The account shares comic-like cartoon drawings that compare people’s different perspectives to any given situation with an edgy twist for effect. The viral illustration shows two women who were both sexually harassed over the phone. The first woman was shamed for “provoking sexual harassment” as she is depicted wearing revealing clothes. The other woman was supported by her colleagues as they felt empathy for her because she wore modest clothing. Full story: https://www.thaienquirer.com/37895/photo-depicting-victim-blaming-goes-viral-sparking-heated-sexual-harrasment-debate/ -- © Copyright Thai Enquirer 2022-02-25 - Aetna 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

File photo. Credit: Thai PBS Thailand on Friday (February 25) reported 24,932 new COVID-19 cases, 15,774 recoveries and 41 additional deaths over the past 24 hours. ▶︎ Infections outside prisons: 24,765. Prisons: 167 ▶︎ Recoveries: 15,774 Friday’s cases bring the total number of COVID-19 infections in Thailand to 2,819,282 with 22,809 deaths. The news comes as the Center for Covid-19 Situation Administration (CCSA) has updated the public on the progress of Covid-19 vaccine developments in Thailand. CCSA Spokesperson Taweesilp Visanuyothin has disclosed the progress of vaccines currently being developed in the country. The vaccines development revealed were the Chula-Cov19 vaccine and HXP-GPOVac. The Chula-Cov19 vaccine is an mRNA vaccine, is being developed by Chulalongkorn University. The vaccine, according to the developers, can be produced swiftly, does not require a large facility for production, and is more adaptable for storage and administration. Its development is currently in its second-phase clinical test and is expected to be registered in 2022. *NNT contributed to this report Discover Cigna’s range of health insurance solutions created for expats and local nationals living in Thailand - click to view -- © Copyright ASEAN NOW 2022-02-25 - Aetna 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

● The Muang Thai Insurance and Kasikorn Bank scion is well-known in Thailand, but did you know that she descends from a Chinese immigrant to Thailand who started out in timber? ● Madam Pang is an Aries with a taste for men as driven as she is, including current husband Thai Corrections Department director-general Narat Sawettanan Naressa Khan Nualphan Lamsam is beloved in Thailand, but how much do you know about her? Photo: @panglamsam/Instagram Nualphan Lamsam, or “Madam Pang” as she is affectionately known in Thailand, is an undeniable force of nature. As the country’s beloved and celebrated billionaire, she has contributed to its social and economic development with various prestigious roles, including as Muang Thai Insurance’s president and CEO, and chairwoman of the Thai League 1 team Port Football Club. And she reportedly does it all in high style. While these are well-known facts about Madam Pang, there are more hidden nuances that paint a more complete picture of who she is. Full story: https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/celebrity/article/3168244/5-lesser-known-facts-about-thai-billionaire-nualphan -- © Copyright South China Morning Post 2022-02-25 - Aetna 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

By Adam Judd Does it feel like Groundhog day to anyone out there? It should. Once again major events have been postponed/canceled by authorities in Pattaya due to Covid-19 concerns. Once again more events, including the biggest of the year, Songkran, the Thai new year/water festival is at risk for strict rules. Now, to be fair, the postponing of the music festival in Pattaya was apparently a decision based on national “advice” from the Thai government around the current Covid-19 alert being “Level 4”. Amongst other things, this discourages inter provincial travel which is the main reason the event was postponed, as authorities were concerned about people traveling from rural provinces or areas and bringing Covid back home. Chonburi is, by the way, the highest vaccinated province in Thailand and the booster program is moving along nicely, according to the Chonburi Public Health Department. Pattaya individually as a tourism “Blue” zone is well over 90 percent double vaccinated according to the Mayor, Sonthaya Khunpluem, and the booster program has been taking place on a regular basis. Despite high numbers of Covid-19 cases, Chonburi deaths and serious cases (pneumonia and on a ventilator) remain very low. This is likely driven by high vaccination rates in the area. Yet, restrictions remain, events are postponed or canceled, and the nightlife and bar industry, a huge part of the local economy in Pattaya whether people like it or not, continues to be stifled by rules and restrictions like no dancing, no singing from customers, no pool, early closing times, required antigen tests to enter, and other rules. Granted, as we have covered previously, large parts of Thailand still have fairly low vaccination rates, especially in rural areas. These areas also have nowhere near the hospital or medical capacity Chonburi does, or Phuket, or Bangkok. So I certainly understand officials being overly cautious as cases rise. I get it. Full story: https://thepattayanews.com/2022/02/25/opinion-with-the-pattaya-music-festival-postponed-and-songkran-at-risk-for-the-third-year-in-a-row-whats-the-exit-strategy-when-do-we-truly-live-with-covid19-in-thailand/ -- © Copyright The Pattaya News 2022-02-25 - Aetna 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

By Adam Moreira (AEMoreira042281) - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=67933807 MAI ALMARZOOGI ● It comes after both countries turned a new page in their relationship with a restoration of full diplomatic ties and a planned exchange of ambassadors JEDDAH: Thailand is preparing for more tourist arrivals from Saudi Arabia following an announcement that direct flights will resume to the Southeast Asian country. Saudia will restart flights on Feb. 28, saying on social media that Bangkok was “closer than ever.” It comes after both countries turned a new page in their relationship with a restoration of full diplomatic ties and a planned exchange of ambassadors after Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha’s official state visit to Riyadh last month. Full story: https://www.arabnews.com/node/2031291/saudi-arabia -- © Copyright ARAB NEWS 2022-02-25 - Aetna 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 will soon have electric vehicles perks including tax breaks. Here’s a deep dive By Dashveenjit Kaur ● The government, to promote electric vehicles, approved an array of incentives, including lower excise tax and import duties on significant auto parts. ● Excise tax on imported EVs will be reduced to 2% from 8%, and that is expected to add 7,000 EVs in the first year. ● Eligible car manufacturers will also receive subsidies of between 70,000 baht and 150,000 baht for each EV and 18,000 baht for electric motorcycles. Lately, in tune with other countries around the world, Thailand has been gearing up to push for more electric vehicles on the road. The country has even set a bold goal of selling only zero-emission vehicles from 2035 onwards. With that, came a flurry of perks by the government, for the Thai EV market. Just this week, officials announced tax incentives to spur the adoption of clean vehicles. Basically, the objective for Thailand is to transform itself from being the Southeast Asian hub for the production of conventional autos to one making electric vehicles. As it is, the automotive industry is one of Thailand’s most important sectors. It contributes to about 10% of the economy, employs 850,000 workers, and supports industries from iron and steel to petrochemicals and plastic. Full story: https://techwireasia.com/2022/02/a-deep-dive-into-thailands-perks-for-electric-vehicles/ -- © Copyright TECHWIRE ASIA 2022-02-25 - Aetna 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

An AH-6i attack helicopter is flown by Todd Brown in Mesa, Ariz. (Boeing) By Mike Yeo MELBOURNE, Australia — Boeing has been awarded a contract for AH-6 light-attack helicopters to Thailand, the U.S. Defense Department announced Feb. 18. The department said Boeing’s Mesa, Arizona, location was issued a $103.8 million modification to a contract for AH-6 aircraft with an estimated completion date of May 30, 2025. The announcement added that the contract modification was for a Foreign Military Sales program for Thailand. The U.S. State Department previously approved the potential sale of eight AH-6i Little Bird helicopters in September 2019, estimated to be worth no more than $400 million. The Thai government later clarified it had approved 4.2 billion baht (U.S. $130.3 million) for the acquisition. Full story: https://www.defensenews.com/industry/2022/02/23/boeing-wins-helicopter-contract-for-thailand/ -- © Copyright Defense News 2022-02-25 - Aetna 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

Minister of Tourism and Sports, Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, has said that Thailand will scrap all restrictions on inbound tourists once the COVID-19 virus has been declared endemic, something that is expected this year. It comes as the kingdom’s economic performance begins to improve since the reopening of its borders under the ‘Test and Go’ regime since November 1st last which has seen growth for 2021 revised to 1.6% and a projected growth rate for 2022 now forecast at up to 5%. by James Morris and Son Nguyen In recent days, the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) has revised its projection for foreign tourists this year from 5 million to 5.5 million visitors and suggests that the country can use the renewed impetus from the sector to drive GDP growth for 2022 of up to 5%. The Thai government is planning to scrap all entry restrictions on foreign travellers sometime this year when it declares the virus as an endemic disease according to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn. On Wednesday, the kingdom did away with the requirement for a second test on arrival on the 5th day for incoming tourists following calls by business leaders to allow the industry to revert to normal. This is happening at the same time as economic data suggests strongly that foreign tourism income has a far higher impact on the country’s economy than originally thought due to its impact on confidence and the level of indirect economic activity generated. Thailand, on Wednesday, gave the green light to the suspension of the mandatory 2nd COVID-19 test for visitors from March 1st next. The move will see the scrapping of any need for a hotel reservation on the 5th day after arrival. For now, the requirement will be for a self-test to be undertaken by the visitor using an antigen test kit. Discover Cigna’s range of health insurance solutions created for expats and local nationals living in Thailand - click to view Full story: https://www.thaiexaminer.com/thai-news-foreigners/2022/02/24/thailand-moving-back-to-free-tourist-access/ -- © Copyright Thai Examiner 2022-02-25 - Aetna 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

File photo//National News Bureau of Thailand OK everyone in the world probably has the same concerns as us, whether it is about the ongoing pandemic, dealing with excessive weather conditions, or now the threat of World War III. Less in the pocket as prices rise, and the cost of filling up with petrol adds to the misery too. Well at least here living in Thailand, either working or retired, is probably a lot more palatable than living over in say Canada, the UK, or of course in Ukraine. With rising global container prices, many in the West are having to either pay through the nose or refrain from buying certain items. Good News The good news is at least Thailand produces masses of its own fresh fruit and vegetables. On a recent trip to the local market, I still found suppliers and farmers delivering fresh produce picked from the ground or trees within 24 hours. Whereas my friends back in London would treat enjoying strawberries in the winter like a real luxury, here we can buy a large bag for just THB100. We also probably take for granted that bananas do taste much better here, because they have not been sitting in a refrigerated container for three months. Another benefit of the pandemic for residents is apart from the odd oil spill, the Gulf of Thailand is a lot cleaner and a bit less polluted. You can also stay in 5-star resorts for the price of paying for a 3 star or even 2-star hotel as well. We had to get used to the constant noise and pollution of all those tourist buses. Well for the moment most of our Soi’s are bus free which is a bonus. Rents of houses, villas, and condominiums are much cheaper, as owners realise that it is better to have some cash coming in, than maybe having an empty property sitting there waiting for higher rentals. And if you are a golfer, the golf courses around Thailand have never been in better condition with fewer people playing, and at rates that are very competitive too. So, although the next few months will not be a picnic, at least it is not all doom and gloom. -- © Copyright ASEAN NOW 2022-02-25 - Aetna 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

Thailand Not Included in US’s Notorious Markets List BANGKOK (NNT) - Authorities said Thailand will remain committed to combating intellectual property (IP) infringement, after the country was excluded from the Notorious Markets List announced recently by the United States. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1251410-thailand-not-included-in-us’s-notorious-markets-list/

Picture: INN INN published pictures of what they called a strange pink pond, though it looked more purple. They reported that the owner thinks it might be dangerous and called for the authorities to investigate. The pond is in Ban Nong Samer, a village in Muang district of Nakhon Ratchasima or Korat. The authorities went to see it after getting a call from Sureerat Sankhlong about the pond that is behind her house. The three meter deep, 30m x 15 m body of water was tested by lowering in a bucket and smelling the water. No bad smell. Picture: INN A bit of white cloth was then doused in the water - no dye came off on the cloth. The officials further noted that the fish put in there by the owner of the pond were all swimming about quite happily. Sureerat said her dad dug the pond 20 years ago. The color started to change last month and is getting darker and darker all the time. She fears chemical contamination in some way. No damning evidence could be found and the taps in the area were running with water showing no discoloration. Now the environmental authority have been called in to take a sample to try and get to the bottom of the mystery, reported INN yesterday. Health insurance plans that meet the long stay visa requirements -- © Copyright ASEAN NOW 2022-02-24 - Aetna 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: INN When Thailand's current PM assumed power the best part of eight years ago he promised to end corruption in Thailand in 20 years. Views on how well he is doing are mixed. Yesterday it was claimed by the RTP spokesman that Prayuth Chan-ocha is till on that anti-corrution mission. Critics of the Thai PM say he has done little to end endemic corruption among officialdom and especially the Royal Thai Police. Salacious stories appear daily in the Thai press with the public weary of corrupt officials. Yesterday Pol Maj-Gen Yingyot Thepjamnong commented after the second meeting of the year of the Police Commission that is chaired by Prayuth. He claimed that the PM is still serious and determined to root out corruption in the force whether it results in disciplinary or criminal investigations, reported INN. As evidence of this 23 officers were expelled from the force in February. A total of 19 were sacked (in Thai 'lai ork') and four dismissed ('plort ork' or let go). This brought the total for the year to 36 - 29 sacked and 7 dismissed. In addition the PM urged the RTP to get tough with call center or boiler room gangs. No discussion at the meeting involved Pol Maj-Gen Paween Pongsirin, said the spokesman, referring to a senior former RTP officer allegedly mixed up in illegal activity. Health insurance plans that meet the long stay visa requirements -- © Copyright ASEAN NOW 2022-02-24 - Aetna 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

Inaugural flight welcomed at Krabi Airport by Thai tourism officials TAT Newsroom Bangkok, 24 February, 2022 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is pleased to report that Russia’s S7 Airlines has introduced a once weekly direct service between Russia’s Novosibirsk and Thailand’s Krabi, from now through to the end of March 2022, servicing European winter traffic to the Southern Thailand province, which is famed for its beautiful beaches, enchanting islands, and welcoming hospitality. S7 Airlines’ inaugural flight from Novosibirsk touched down at Krabi International Airport this morning. On hand for the arrival of Flight 5713 were executives from TAT, Krabi Tourism Business Association, and Krabi International Airport. Operated by an Airbus A321nx, the flight carried 64 passengers from cities across Russia; most of them were families travelling together. Ms. Kanitha Phanworawat, Director of the TAT Moscow Office, said, “S7 Airlines’ new weekly service between Russia and Thailand will be highlighted in our marketing activities. Russian tourists love the beaches; as such, we will place emphasis on a wide array of tourism attractions and activities, especially in Thailand’s beach resort destinations. Krabi in particular is known for its limestone peaks, beautiful beaches and islands, unique temples, and outstanding food complimented by the friendliness of the local people.” Since Thailand began to reopen for international tourists – gradually from 1 July, 2021, more than 57,000 Russian tourists have visited the kingdom. The TAT Moscow Office is currently working together with airlines, including S7 Airlines, as well as Russian travel agencies and tour companies to promote travel to Thailand especially in May, which is a long holiday in Russia, to attract Russian tourists to travel to Thailand during the holiday. In 2019, before the COVID-19 pandemic, there were six airlines operating direct flights from major Russian cities to Krabi, amounting to 63 flights and a total of 50,382 Russian visitor arrivals. From 1 February, 2022, fully vaccinated travellers from any country around the world, including Russia, can travel to Krabi directly under either the TEST & GO entry scheme or Sandbox programme. For more information on Thailand’s various entry schemes, visit: https://www.tatnews.org/thailand-reopening/. Photo Credit: Krabi Provincial Public Relations Office Source: https://www.tatnews.org/2022/02/tat-welcomes-s7-airlines-new-weekly-service-between-russias-novosibirsk-and-thailands-krabi/ -- © Copyright TAT NEWS 2022-02-24 - Aetna 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

Picture: Thai Rath Thai Rath published a picture of a Honda City that collided with a ten wheel truck in Udon Thani last night. It was unrecognisable. It looks like DUI once again played a part. Inside were two 40 year old men, Patiwat the driver and Udorn the front seat passenger. They were crushed to death and had to be cut out before their bodies were taken to Soon Udon Thani medical center. They had collided head on at a bend with a ten wheel truck. The truck driver Chalong, 28, said he had made a cassava delivery to a factory and was on his way home. They collided at speed on the bend. He hit his head on the windshield and was slightly injured but his truck had front damage and a puncture and he had to pull over. Thana, 59, a friend of the City driver said he had seen the deceased drinking after a round of golf. The car apparently belonged to another person, a woman, who had left her bag at a restaurant with his friend going back to retrieve it. Police are checking all involved for alcohol consumption. The accident occurred just after 9 pm on the Udon Thani to Don Kloi Road in Sam Phran near the university. Health insurance plans that meet the long stay visa requirements -- © Copyright ASEAN NOW 2022-02-24 - Aetna 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: Thai Rath The acting chief of the Bangsaotong police station in Samut Prakan has ordered one of his men to apologize after a member of the public came in to report a large hole in the road that caused several accidents. She said police told her it had nothing to do with them. "A", 26, went on Facebook to complain after what happened. She had been driving home to Pathum Thani in her Nissan March when she hit an exposed cover on a drain on a damaged section of road. There was no cone to mark the danger and four motorcyclists had already been injured before her. Her vehicle had 30,000 baht damage to the gas tank and a puncture. She went to the station to report the incident ahead of making a claim with the relevant authority. Picture: Thai Rath But she was told: "Why are you bothering us with this? "It's your problem. ""There's nothing in it for us" It was even suggested in the rude response that there were plenty of decent roads to use. Pol Col Prathan Nanthakopkul, provincial deputy and acting chief of the station, heard about the case and made the officer concerned phone and apologize to the lady for the poor service. It will be further discussed between the police and the lady on Friday. Locals at the scene complained about the state of the road and called for repairs. The offending hole had been repaired. Thai Rath had a picture of ranks of police lined up at the police station though whether it had a bearing on the case they did not say. Health insurance plans that meet the long stay visa requirements -- © Copyright ASEAN NOW 2022-02-24 - Aetna 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

A man from Sierra Leone has been charged with smuggling 3.8 million baht's worth of cocaine into Thailand. It is believed that he swallowed the drugs weighing 1,280 grams, contained in 74 capsules, on the journey from Guinea-Bissau in west Africa. He arrived at Suvarnabhumi on February 12th and was given a luggage check but no irregularities were found. Customs and other agencies kept tabs on him, however, at his place of quarantine, a hotel in Chan Road, Bangkok. Picture: Thai PBS He was searched on leaving the hotel on Tuesday at 4.30 am and the drugs were found in a shoulder bag. He has been charged with smuggling a Class 2 narcotic. The customs department has handled 28 drugs cases since last year with a street price value of 880.6 million baht, reported Thai PBS. Health insurance plans that meet the long stay visa requirements -- © Copyright ASEAN NOW 2022-02-24 - Aetna 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

By Cod Satrusayang I don’t believe in vaccine mandates. I don’t believe forcing someone against their will to vaccinate is something a democratic government should do. However, if you are unvaccinated by choice, then you can live with the consequences. The situation in 2022 is vastly different than the situation in 2021. Last year, you could not be faulted for being unvaxxed because the government failed to provide vaccines quickly and for all. Discover Cigna’s range of health insurance solutions created for expats and local nationals living in Thailand - click to view Full story: https://www.thaienquirer.com/37851/opinion-dont-go-down-the-path-of-vaccine-mandates-rather-show-anti-vaxxers-for-who-they-really-are/ -- © Copyright Thai Enquirer 2022-02-24 - Aetna 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

By Erich Parpart More than 82 per cent of people who died from Covid-19 this year were people age 60 and above. The number of fatalities that were unvaccinated was 58.2 per cent. Only 2.4 per cent of people who have received three doses passed away. “The number of fatalities has the potential to continue to rise along with the rise in the daily number of cases which is in the tens of thousands now and many of the fatalities were unvaccinated,” said Dr Taweesin Visanuyothin, the spokesperson of the Centre for Covid-19 Situation Administration (CCSA). “Many of them are still in the 608 groups as well,” he said. Discover Cigna’s range of health insurance solutions created for expats and local nationals living in Thailand - click to view Full story: https://www.thaienquirer.com/37827/covid-deaths-among-unvaccinated-rises-but-thailand-still-doing-better-than-region/ -- © Copyright Thai Enquirer 2022-02-24 - Aetna 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

PHOTO: Manager Online By Nop Meechukhun National – The Thai Tourism and Sports Minister confirmed that the 300-baht ‘land entry fee’ on all foreign tourists visiting the country would be eventually implemented, stressing that it would be used for tourists’ insurance and an emergency fund for those traveling in the country. Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn told the Associated Press today, February 23rd, that the fee collection plan was still planned to be put into effect as it was a resolution that was issued long before his era. TPN media notes that the proposal for the entry fee has been hotly disputed on social media and by the tourism and hospitality industry. Phiphat clarified that the money would be, according to him, used to buy insurance for travelers who visited Thailand, provide emergency services, and the remaining fee would be used as a fund for the tourism development, chaired by the Permanent Secretary. He also insisted that the collection process would be transparent and accountable to the public and not go into anyone’s “pocket”. Full story: https://thepattayanews.com/2022/02/22/thai-tourism-minister-insists-on-collecting-300-baht-land-entry-fee-on-all-foreign-visitors-says-will-be-to-help-tourists-and-transparent/ -- © Copyright The Pattaya News 2022-02-23 - Aetna 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

By Erich Parpart Thailand has to address many “constraints to investment”, accelerate investment in digital technologies and upskill its workforce to gain better access to cash flow worth billions of dollars in modern and circular markets, the World Bank in its latest report released on Tuesday. According to the Country Private Sector Diagnostic report for Thailand, by the International Finance Corporation and the World Bank, accelerating investment in digital technologies and promoting a circular economy approach in key industries can generate up to US$3.4 billion through investment flows and revenues for the country. But the upskilling or reskilling of the Thai labour force is needed if the country wants to better find these opportunities because “the supply of appropriate skills is missing” due to an aging society, shortage of foreign experts, underdevelopment, and outdated curricula. Full story: https://www.thaienquirer.com/37738/thailand-needs-to-reskill-its-workforce-in-order-to-compete-grow/ -- © Copyright Thai Enquirer 2022-02-23 - Aetna 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

Latest reports state that Putin’s troops have been ordered to perform what is loosely described as “peacekeeping functions” in Lubansk and Donetsk raising fears troops could soon cross the border. If Putin’s Red army attacks, the impending hostilities could represent the most significant war in Europe since WW2. So, what are your concerns/predictions about the impact on our lives here as expats in Asia, if the conflict worsens? Financial Impact Initially one would expect the world stock markets will take a hit, so any invested in a retirement plan may see funds reduced. For example, concerns on the Ukraine-Russia tension and higher average domestic inflation projection for this and next year have already resulted in the upticks of Treasury bill (T-bill) rates in the Philippines this week. Global crude prices dropped marginally as news of fresh diplomatic efforts to resolve the Ukraine crisis soothed some concerns oversupply. However, as we have already seen, Oil and Gas prices have risen and therefore could go higher along with electricity. In Vietnam, gas prices reached a historic peak this week, and in some cases, supplies were limited. There could also be some blockades, meaning shipping will burn more expensive fuel to get to Asia, resulting in food shortages and rises even further! If a war breaks out between Russia and Ukraine, China will tighten its grip on South Asia Pacific, and Taiwan. Then the Philippines will have to choose a side! Needs a close watch by Thailand Sanan Angubolkul, chairperson of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, said the conflict brewing in Eastern Europe requires a close watch by Thailand. A bad situation could worsen if the standoff between Russia and the West over Ukraine leads to fighting, said Mr Sanan. "The global oil price continues to rise, affecting the costs of energy and logistics in the global supply chain system. This also affects Thailand, as indicated by the rising prices of goods and services," said Mr Sanan. Thai petrol prices The dispute is a "warning sign" the global and Thai economies may plunge into trouble if the US, UK, and EU decide to impose economic sanctions on Russia if it invades Ukraine, said Supant Mongkolsuthree, chairperson of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI). "Trade between Thailand and Russia, especially for food and farm produce, would certainly be affected by such sanctions." Mongkolsuthree added. Thai Russian Exports In 2021, Thailand's exports to Russia tallied US$1.02 billion, accounting for 0.4% of the country's total export value. Key export products included tractors, rubber, rubber-made products, machinery and parts, electrical appliances and parts, and plastic. Meanwhile Thai shipments to Ukraine totalled only $135 million, representing 0.05% of the country's total exports. Key exports included tractors, rubber and rubber-made products, plant-based seasonings, machinery, and parts. Air travel disruptions Apart from these economic issues, it is several flight routes would need to be changed as flying over Russia and Ukraine airspace will be a definite no-no. This is likely to not only add to everyone’s travel times but is also likely to see fare increases to cover additional fuel costs. The tensions would also affect exchange rates, plus travel and tourism. What are your thoughts? Perhaps you feel it is just too far away to be of major concern. -- © Copyright ASEAN NOW 2022-02-23 - Aetna 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

Digital Economy and Society Minister Chaiwut Thanakhamanusorn, last Friday, speaking in the House of Representatives, resurrected a plan pushed by the military junta up to 2015 to put in place a national internet gateway to control access to the internet in Thailand. The minister cited rising criminal complaints as the basis for the move but there are fears that the proposal could, in conjunction with a suggested review of the Computer Crime Act, give the government the tool kit it has long sought to exercise more efficient control over public commentary and online debate. There are, in addition, strong concerns about the negative commercial and practical business ramifications of such a move. by Joseph O' Connor The move is coming at a time when support for the government has hit a low ebb with a poll published last weekend showing that 77% have lost confidence in the coalition administration of Prayut Chan ocha and an increasingly fractious political environment with a General Election seen now as more likely in 2022. Last Friday, the Thai Digital Economy and Society Minister Chaiwut Thanakhamanusorn appeared to resurrect plans first mooted by the military junta up to 2015, to install a national internet gateway in Thailand to control and restrict access to external online content as an issue of national security. The minister cited a rise in criminal complaints concerning illegal online scams and gangs operating from outside the kingdom from bases in Cambodia as reasons for the move which would be similar to a proposal also being pursued by Cambodian authorities and interpreted by many analysts as introducing a Chinese approach to internet control, policing and regulation. On Friday last, speaking in the House of Representatives, the country’s Digital Economy and Society Minister, Mr Chaiwut, again raised the possibility that Thai authorities may pursue a single gateway for internet access to websites and traffic outside of Thailand. Full story: https://www.thaiexaminer.com/thai-news-foreigners/2022/02/22/minister-resurrects-internet-gateway-scheme/ -- © Copyright Thai Examiner 2022-02-22 - Aetna 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

PHOTO: Amphon Sangkaeo / 77kaoded By Goong Nang(GN) Banglamung/Pattaya – A foreign bicycle rider, believed to be a local ex-pat, has been pronounced dead at the scene after being hit by a pickup truck driver in the Banglamung area this morning. Police and emergency responders were notified of the accident on Number 331 Road (Sattahip – Korat) in the Huayyai sub-district before noon today (February 21st). Emergency responders arrived at the scene to find the foreign man lying unconscious on the road. He was later, despite the best efforts of first responders, pronounced dead at the scene. His heavily damaged bicycle was lying nearby and was later taken as evidence by Banglamung police. The foreign man, who appeared to be in his late 60’s or early 70’s, was not fully identified by law enforcement, only releasing partial information. However, The Pattaya News is witholding his name pending embassy and family notification. Full story: https://thepattayanews.com/2022/02/21/foreign-ex-pat-riding-a-bicycle-dies-after-being-hit-by-a-pickup-truck-driver-in-the-pattaya-area/ -- © Copyright The Pattaya News 2022-02-22 - Aetna 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

It is becoming almost the norm to read in the papers or online that another expat has tragically died falling from a balcony. This week alone there have been a further two incidents in Pattaya where people have met their death falling off a balcony. There seems to be more than a bit of a trend going on here, in what is one of the other most popular tourist areas in Thailand. It seems hardly a month goes by without yet another balcony-related death. This sadly is not entirely a new phenomenon as we reported as far back as 2016 that a Finn was found dead, ten floors below a Jomtien Beach condo. The UK Foreign & Commonwealth office, alone with ABTA has often urged British nationals to take care on balconies and this even prompted the FCO and ABTA to launch a campaign warning of the dangers. It was reported that three thousand British people fall off balconies each year while abroad. Spain has a similar problem Spain is one of the most popular holiday destinations for Britons, but recent deaths and accidents after Britons have fallen from balconies have forced the FCO to update their travel advice for the country. Spain has been a top holiday spot for years, but a spate of deaths and serious accidents in the country has forced the Foreign and Commonwealth Office to issue new travel advice. Could it be the low construction heights? Apparently, most balconies in Thailand have barriers that are about 700 or 800 mm high - for the shorter Thai people - and there is little or no policing of building regulations. Whereas in Australia there is a one-meter minimum for example on building balconies over there. Therefore, if a tall Expat (over 5.10) stands next to a 700 mm railing, it only reaches their thighs. Now take an old man drinking and losing balance a bit and over they go. It happens – there are many incidences of accidental falls. Sadly some of course are not and can be linked to concerns over many issues including finances and depression. But maybe the time has come to at least force the Thai developers to raise the height of balconies in the future. -- © Copyright ASEAN NOW 2022-02-22 - Aetna 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