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Picture courtesy: Blitz On October 14, at 1:00 p.m., police from Udon Thani, led by Lt. Col. Prabda Suksontree, responded to an altercation involving a foreign tourist who allegedly threw items at café staff in a row over a 130-baht change discrepancy. The incident took place at the Sky Blue café on Prachak Silpakom Road, where a man identified as Max, 59, from the Netherlands, was seen on CCTV hurling a fan and ashtrays at staff during a drunken outburst in the early hours of October 13. The café owner, Ms. Wasithi Lhachan, 39, explained that Max began arguing over the change after handing over a 1,000-baht note for an 870-baht bill. As a friend pocketed the change as a joke, Max, apparently unaware of this, accused staff of short-changing him. The heated dispute led him to violently toss a fan and ashtrays, injuring Ms. Wasithi on her right arm and the cashier, Ms. Pawina Piansabai, 34, on her leg. Lt. Col. Prabda, along with another officer, invited both parties to the local police station to negotiate compensation. Max’s Thai wife, also present, requested to assess the damage before any settlement, while Max expressed regret, agreeing to face consequences for his actions. Ms. Wasithi, shaken by the incident, shared that Max, an acquaintance of a friend, had previously been a well-behaved visitor. She called on Max to respect Thai laws and resolve the matter peacefully, to prevent further incidents and ensure the safety of local businesses, reported Matichon Online. -- 2024-10-15

New Guidelines Introduced for Safer School Trips by Krajangwit Johjit BANGKOK (NNT) - The Office of the Private Education Commission (OPEC) has introduced six critical guidelines for private schools across Thailand regarding student safety during off-campus trips. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340725-new-guidelines-introduced-for-safer-school-trips/

BANGKOK (NNT) - The Office of the Private Education Commission (OPEC) has introduced six critical guidelines for private schools across Thailand regarding student safety during off-campus trips. The new measures come after a tragic bus fire on October 1, 2024, during a school field trip, which resulted in multiple fatalities. The guidelines align with the Ministry of Education’s policies to improve safety for students and teachers. The guidelines include requirements for vehicle inspections, the presence of parents for younger students, limiting travel to nearby locations, providing travel insurance, conducting emergency drills, and securing official permission at least three days before a trip. Provincial private education offices have also been instructed to review trips and cancel any deemed unsafe. The Office of the Basic Education Commission (OBEC) has also outlined 16 additional guidelines for public schools, which include ensuring vehicle safety, conducting emergency response drills, and using licensed transport providers with appropriate insurance coverage. These measures are expected to enhance overall safety for students during school trips. The Ministry of Education has formed a working group to develop further safety measures following the bus fire incident. The group is focused on creating comprehensive safety protocols for school activities and trips, drawing from international best practices to protect students and those accompanying them on each field trip. by Krajangwit Johjit Source: NNT -- 2024-10-15

Thai Tourism Council Advocates Boosting Local Spending Power Photo: Facebook Not Just Travel, Newcastle In light of economic challenges, the Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) has put forward proposals aimed at strengthening local purchasing power and attracting foreign tourists. Central to their recommendations is raising the salary base for new civil servants to 25,000 baht per month, alongside a novel approach of offering digital incentives to foreign visitors. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340723-thai-tourism-council-advocates-boosting-local-spending-power/

In light of economic challenges, the Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) has put forward proposals aimed at strengthening local purchasing power and attracting foreign tourists. Central to their recommendations is raising the salary base for new civil servants to 25,000 baht per month, alongside a novel approach of offering digital incentives to foreign visitors. The TCT’s recent quarterly survey highlighted a concerning trend: 85% of Thai households have reduced their expenses, with 83% cutting back on tourism and leisure, affecting the overall economy. Chamnan Srisawat, TCT president, believes adjusting entry-level government salaries could help alleviate this issue, making a case for higher wages coupled with controlled recruitment to manage public spending effectively. Additionally, the TCT suggests a revision of the minimum wage structure, advocating for wage increments based on skill levels. This aims to drive workers toward skill enhancement, as the current policy seems to benefit mainly foreign workers in low-skilled roles. Despite entering what's traditionally a high season, the tourism sector is grappling with declining confidence, as evidenced by a tourism confidence index of only 80 for the fourth quarter. Acknowledging this, the council estimates a dip in foreign arrivals and revenue compared to 2019 figures. To counteract these issues and stimulate tourist activity, the TCT proposes a 1,000-baht digital incentive for foreign tourists, encouraging visits to lesser-known areas in need of support. This initiative aims to offset the adverse effects of a stronger baht, which has dampened foreigners' purchasing power, reported Bangkok Post. For local residents, the TCT has suggested a 10,000-baht interest-free loan scheme, with repayments staggered over several years, to enhance cash flow. Furthermore, a revival of the "Khon La Khrueng" co-payment scheme is favoured by 60% of those surveyed, underscoring the population's need for government assistance in reviving consumer confidence and economic activity. Photo: Facebook Not Just Travel, Newcastle -- 2024-10-15

Controversy at Bang Saen Beach over ice truck intrusion by Ryan Turner Image: KhaoSod A dispute erupted at Bang Saen Beach in Chon Buri when a municipal officer ordered tourists to move for an ice delivery truck driving on the beach, claiming he was the mayor’s son. The incident sparked public outrage and led to a heated exchange. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340721-controversy-at-bang-saen-beach-over-ice-truck-intrusion/

A dispute erupted at Bang Saen Beach in Chon Buri when a municipal officer ordered tourists to move for an ice delivery truck driving on the beach, claiming he was the mayor’s son. The incident sparked public outrage and led to a heated exchange. Tourists enjoying their long holiday weekend at Bang Saen Beach were interrupted by a pickup truck delivering ice. The truck, bearing stickers from a well-known convenience store, drove onto the beach, prompting one of the men in the vehicle to instruct tourists to make way. Some complied, but others questioned the appropriateness of a vehicle driving through a crowded beach area. When queried, the driver responded that the truck was avoiding traffic congestion, leading to a verbal confrontation. Beachgoers contacted the San Suk Municipality’s operations centre and the Civil Defence Volunteers to clarify whether vehicles were allowed on the beach. Municipal officers arrived at the scene and negotiated with the truck driver before requesting compliance from the tourists. One municipal officer stated that the route was permitted for emergency situations, such as natural disasters or accidents. Tourists, however, challenged whether ice delivery constituted an emergency, causing the egotistical officer to respond curtly, saying “Don’t argue.” The officer subsequently made a tense phone call, and additional officers arrived. During the incident, another officer photographed tourists who vowed to file a complaint with Narongchai Khunpluem, the mayor of San Suk. The officer retorted, “I am the mayor’s son,” before the group left, allowing the ice delivery truck to proceed. Worathep Lertkiattikun, an MP for Chon Buri’s 1st constituency from the People’s Party, commented that the area is under the jurisdiction of San Suk Municipality. He acknowledged existing regulations but stressed the need for clear standards on permissible activities in the area. Worathep noted that the long holiday was crucial for local vendors, who rely on these periods for their livelihood, and urged that disputes should not tarnish Bang Saen’s image. Regarding the officer’s impolite behaviour, Worathep emphasised that public officials should serve the community rather than create conflict. He promised to address the issue to find a resolution, reported KhaoSod. The incident has raised questions about the use of public beach spaces and the conduct of municipal officers. The tourists’ dissatisfaction highlights the need for clear and enforced regulations to ensure that public areas remain safe and enjoyable for everyone. by Ryan Turner Image: KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-15

Phuket Targets High-End Tourists for B500 Billion Revenue Goal Picture courtesy: TAT News Phuket is aiming to achieve a tourism revenue goal of 500 billion baht in the latter half of this year, focusing on attracting high-end tourists. The shift in target, up from an initial 420 billion baht, reflects the island's capacity as a premier destination for tourism, transportation, and aviation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340716-phuket-targets-high-end-tourists-for-b500-billion-revenue-goal/

Phuket is aiming to achieve a tourism revenue goal of 500 billion baht in the latter half of this year, focusing on attracting high-end tourists. The shift in target, up from an initial 420 billion baht, reflects the island's capacity as a premier destination for tourism, transportation, and aviation. Rewat Areerob, head of the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO), revealed two main strategies designed to elevate tourism and local income by drawing in visitors with significant spending capabilities. The first strategy addresses traffic congestion, replacing the long-serving pink pho thong buses with 24 electric vehicles (EVs). These EVs are set to run on key routes to enhance access to popular tourist sites and urban areas. The planned routes include Saphan Hin to Central Phuket shopping mall, Ao Chalong Pier to Super Cheap supermarket, Rassada Pier to Andamanda Water Park, and from Phuket Airport to Rawai Beach. Each EV is equipped to carry 21 passengers, with test drives scheduled for December. The initiative aims not only to improve urban mobility but also to provide efficient transit for tourists and residents alike. The second part of Phuket's strategy is transformative urban planning: relocating the provincial prison to Thalang district, thereby freeing up the existing site for a public park. This 33-rai green space is envisioned to enhance both recreational and wellness opportunities for the community and tourists. It will feature ample parking and integrate with surrounding green areas, forming a central urban park. This park project, budgeted at 169.5 million baht, exemplifies Phuket's commitment to sustainable urban development while boosting its appeal as a high-end tourist destination. Through these initiatives, Phuket seeks not only to increase visitor expenditures but also to enhance the overall tourist experience, contributing significantly to reaching its ambitious revenue target, reported Bangkok Post. Picture courtesy: TAT News -- 2024-10-15

Bangchak Turns Cooking Oil Waste into Sustainable Aviation Fuel Picture courtesy: National Aviation Academy Bangchak Corporation, a major player in Thailand's energy sector, is set to utilise used cooking oil as a key ingredient in producing sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) by next year. This initiative aligns with the company’s commitment to environmental sustainability and the concept of a circular economy, where waste is transformed into valuable resources. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340715-bangchak-turns-cooking-oil-waste-into-sustainable-aviation-fuel/

Picture courtesy: National Aviation Academy Bangchak Corporation, a major player in Thailand's energy sector, is set to utilise used cooking oil as a key ingredient in producing sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) by next year. This initiative aligns with the company’s commitment to environmental sustainability and the concept of a circular economy, where waste is transformed into valuable resources. Through its subsidiary, BSGF, responsible for SAF production and distribution, Bangchak recently formalised an agreement with New Biodiesel to procure used cooking oil from Thailand's southern provinces. This move follows Bangchak's strategic acquisition of a 45% stake in Thanachok Vegetable Oil, New Biodiesel’s parent company, which focuses on palm oil and used cooking oil collection. The initiative aims to address improper disposal of cooking oil, which poses environmental risks. Thamarat Paryoonsuk, Bangchak's senior vice-president for refinery and oil trading, highlights that this effort not only supports the environment but also enhances the value of waste products. SAF, which closely resembles traditional jet fuel but with a significantly reduced carbon footprint, can be produced from used cooking oil and agricultural residues. To bolster their raw material supply, Bangchak has agreements with 17 companies, including Five Star Chicken, S&P Syndicate, and Thai Beverage, to buy used oil. In addition, Bangchak is encouraging smaller vendors and street food sellers to participate, offering 20 baht per litre of used oil. The company previously launched the "Fry to Fly" campaign, promoting proper management of cooking oil waste. Bangchak is investing heavily in SAF, with a 10-billion-baht production facility in Bangkok's Phra Khanong district, capable of producing up to 1 million litres daily. The plant is expected to start operations in the first quarter of 2024, with Sumitomo Corporation in Japan as an initial major client. This SAF project is integral to Bangchak's goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2030, aligning with global initiatives like the International Air Transport Association’s "Fly Net Zero" campaign, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-10-15

Thai PM Faces Allegations of Media Freedom Breach Picture courtesy: Springnews Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has found herself under scrutiny following a petition filed by Ruangkrai Leekitwattana, a frequent petitioner, accusing her of breaching media freedoms. Mr Ruangkrai has claimed that her recent interactions with the press could result in her removal from office. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340713-thai-pm-faces-allegations-of-media-freedom-breach/

Picture courtesy: Springnews Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has found herself under scrutiny following a petition filed by Ruangkrai Leekitwattana, a frequent petitioner, accusing her of breaching media freedoms. Mr Ruangkrai has claimed that her recent interactions with the press could result in her removal from office. On Monday, Mr Ruangkrai submitted a formal request to the Election Commission (EC), urging an investigation into Ms Paetongtarn's response to a journalist during a press interaction. He argues that her remarks were not befitting a public officeholder, potentially breaching Section 184 of Thailand's Constitution. If verified, this could lead to the prime minister losing her position as dictated by Section 170. The controversy began during a media engagement at Government House. A particular interaction, featured on the ch3plus.com website, captured the prime minister's dissatisfaction with reporting related to the government's stance on constitutional amendments. This stemmed from a query about disagreements with coalition parties regarding proposed amendments perceived as a policy reversal. Ms Paetongtarn expressed her preference that such questions be avoided, reiterating that coalition consultations on key issues occur regularly. She also noted that current government priorities were focused on flood relief efforts, pushing amendments to a lower priority. The prime minister further suggested that cohesive governance was in the national interest, cautioning against questions that might incite division. Mr Ruangkrai, however, contends that her responses could be seen as infringing on the media's constitutional rights to report on governmental affairs. This is Mr Ruangkrai's second petition against Ms Paetongtarn, the first being an accusation of ethical misconduct related to appointing advisors with criminal records. The EC's findings will dictate whether the matter escalates to the Constitutional Court for a conclusive ruling, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-10-15

Thai Street Vendor Attacked by 20 Youths After Firework Warning Picture courtesy: Daily News A street vendor selling grilled squid by the Mun River in Ubon Ratchathani was brutally attacked after warning a group of youths not to light fireworks near his vehicle due to safety concerns. The group retaliated by returning with nearly 20 friends, violently assaulting him and two others. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340708-thai-street-vendor-attacked-by-20-youths-after-firework-warning/

A street vendor selling grilled squid by the Mun River in Ubon Ratchathani was brutally attacked after warning a group of youths not to light fireworks near his vehicle due to safety concerns. The group retaliated by returning with nearly 20 friends, violently assaulting him and two others. The incident was recorded on a mobile phone by a bystander, who then shared it on the Facebook page "Roi Rueng Mueang Roi Dan Ubon Ratchathani." The video shows a large group of youths attacking and wielding knives, resulting in three people being injured. On October 14, Police Lieutenant Colonel Nikul Nusil of the Ubon Ratchathani City Police Station received a report from the victims, Mr. Nuntachai, Mr. Wayupak, and Mr. Sitthikon, all aged 30. They reported being assaulted by the group on a riverside walkway in Nai Mueang, Ubon Ratchathani. The victims also provided the mobile phone footage as evidence. Mr. Nuntachai, one of the injured and the squid vendor, recounted the incident, stating it occurred around 1:30 a.m. on October 14. He and his friends were eating by the river when a group of local youths began setting off fireworks nearby, nearly hitting his car and motorbike. He asked them to stop, and they initially left. However, about 20 minutes later, the group returned in two pick-up trucks, with nearly 20 youths, who then attacked him, punching and slashing him with knives on his arms and back. His two friends were also injured in the attack. Police have identified the suspects and will issue warrants for their arrest on charges of attempted murder and assault, reported Daily News. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-10-15

German Tourist Arrested for Drug Use and Overstaying in Thailand Picture courtesy: Matichon online Police in Patong, led by Police Colonel Chalermchai Hoernsawat and Deputy Police Superintendent Police Lieutenant Colonel Narubodin Phangleesen, arrested a 29-year-old German man at a hotel on Prachanukhro Road in Patong, Kathu District, Phuket. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340704-german-tourist-arrested-for-drug-use-and-overstaying-in-thailand/

Police in Patong, led by Police Colonel Chalermchai Hoernsawat and Deputy Police Superintendent Police Lieutenant Colonel Narubodin Phangleesen, arrested a 29-year-old German man at a hotel on Prachanukhro Road in Patong, Kathu District, Phuket. The arrest was conducted by a special task force headed by Police Lieutenant Colonel Sinchai Sukhi, who, along with the Patong Police investigation unit, detained the suspect. The man was found to have overstayed his visa in Thailand and was in possession of drug paraphernalia. Following the arrest, authorities conducted a urine test on the suspect at Patong Hospital, which tested positive for methamphetamine, a Class 1 controlled substance in Thailand. Consequently, he was charged with the illegal use of methamphetamine and for violating immigration regulations by overstaying his permitted time in the country. The suspect and evidence were subsequently handed over to Patong Police Station’s investigators for further legal proceedings. Local authorities in Phuket are continuing to monitor and address issues of drug use and overstaying foreign tourists in an effort to maintain safety and compliance with Thai law, reported Matichon Online. Picture courtesy: Matichon online -- 2024-10-15

Phuket-In a distressing incident that has captured public attention, a 38-year-old mother identified only as Mrs. Mam from Wichit, Phuket, was arrested following a severe assault on her two-year-old daughter. The incident, which occurred on the evening of Saturday, October 12, 2024, has sparked outrage and concern over child safety and parental supervision. According to reports from the Wichit Police Chief Colonel Chatree Chookaew, Mrs. Mam admitted to striking one of her daughters, causing her to hit her head on the floor and lose consciousness. A neighbor, alarmed by the commotion, contacted emergency services. The toddler was rushed to a nearby hospital, where she received immediate medical attention. At the time of the incident, Mrs. Mam’s husband was not present at their residence. Following the incident, both parents were summoned to the Wichit Police Station. During the investigation, Mrs. Mam underwent a urine drug test, which returned positive, leading to additional charges related to illegal drug use. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS -- 2024-10-15

Buriram Police Arrest Woman for Posting Fake Rental Listings Picture courtesy: 77kaoded Police Colonel Jamras Siriliang from the Muang Buriram Police Station detained a 46-year-old woman, Ms. Sirikorn, from Nang Rong district, Buriram, for allegedly using photos of other people's houses to create fake rental ads. The ads targeted tourists visiting Buriram for the upcoming MotoGP event, scheduled for October 25-27. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340702-buriram-police-arrest-woman-for-posting-fake-rental-listings/

Police Colonel Jamras Siriliang from the Muang Buriram Police Station detained a 46-year-old woman, Ms. Sirikorn, from Nang Rong district, Buriram, for allegedly using photos of other people's houses to create fake rental ads. The ads targeted tourists visiting Buriram for the upcoming MotoGP event, scheduled for October 25-27. The investigation began after a 34-year-old woman, Ms. Nid (pseudonym), reported to the police that someone had impersonated her as the homeowner, posting her property for rent without her consent. The accused, Ms. Sirikorn, admitted to receiving a transfer of 18,600 baht from a customer. She claimed to have initially arranged to rent the house but was ultimately denied by the actual owner, who had rented it out to someone else. Ms. Nid explained that she had advertised her home on Facebook for rent. After receiving inquiries, she accepted a deposit and provided the property's location details. Later, she was alarmed when contacted by a would-be renter who mentioned an arrangement she hadn't made. Ms. Nid then filed a complaint with the police. Police Colonel Jamras Siriliang advised that tourists verify ownership details before making rental payments, as scams are common during major events. According to officials, Ms. Sirikorn had previously conducted a similar scam during last year’s MotoGP event in Buriram. Ms. Sirikorn now faces charges of fraud under Section 341 of the Criminal Code, which includes penalties of up to three years in prison or a fine of up to 60,000 baht, or both, reported 77kaoded. Picture courtesy: 77kaoded Provincial Police Commander Major General Rutthaphon Naowarat reaffirmed the commitment to safeguarding tourists and enforcing measures against fraudulent activities during the event. TOP Picture courtesy: 77kaoded -- 2024-10-15

Mother Arrested after Assaulting Two Year Old Daughter in Wichit By Goongnang Suksawat Phuket-In a distressing incident that has captured public attention, a 38-year-old mother identified only as Mrs. Mam from Wichit, Phuket, was arrested following a severe assault on her two-year-old daughter. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340701-mother-arrested-after-assaulting-two-year-old-daughter-in-wichit/

Sattahip Women Arrested for Playing Card Game Without Asking for Permission By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: TMN Cable TV Pattaya Sattahip — A group of Thai women was arrested in Sattahip for playing cards illegally after being misled by social media reports that they could gamble legally without needing permission. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340698-sattahip-women-arrested-for-playing-card-game-without-asking-for-permission/

Sattahip — A group of Thai women was arrested in Sattahip for playing cards illegally after being misled by social media reports that they could gamble legally without needing permission. On October 13th, Sattahip police received a tip from concerned citizens that a group of women were gambling by playing Pok Deng behind a local restaurant near the Bang Saray Night Market. Officers immediately responded to the report. Upon arrival, authorities arrested four Thai unidentified women and seized evidence including a deck of Pok Deng cards, 240 baht in cash, and a cloth used for the game. The suspects were taken into custody and transported to Sattahip Police Station for further legal proceedings. According to the police, the suspects had violated the Gambling Act of 1935 and were charged with “engaging in unauthorized gambling for financial gain.” By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: TMN Cable TV Pattaya Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS -- 2024-10-15

Tour Bus Carrying Malaysian Tourists Collides with 18-Wheeler in Sadao: 14 Injured A tour bus carrying Malaysian tourists collided with an 18-wheeler truck, resulting in 14 injuries. The crash took place near the Plant Quarantine Station in Samnak Kham, Sadao District, a few kilometres from the Sadao checkpoint. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340648-tour-bus-carrying-malaysian-tourists-collides-with-18-wheeler-in-sadao-14-injured/

to continue: Thailand Live Tuesday 15 October 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1340666-thailand-live-tuesday-15-october-2024/