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Tourism Industry Backs Reinstatement of 300 Baht Tourist Fee Thai tourism industry players are calling for the return of a 300 baht ($9) fee for incoming visitors. The funds raised are seen as critical to driving tourism development. The Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) is set to discuss the matter with Sermsak Pongpanich, the incoming tourism minister. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326379-tourism-industry-backs-reinstatement-of-300-baht-tourist-fee/

Thai tourism industry players are calling for the return of a 300 baht ($9) fee for incoming visitors. The funds raised are seen as critical to driving tourism development. The Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) is set to discuss the matter with Sermsak Pongpanich, the incoming tourism minister. TCT Vice President, Surawat Akaraworamat, emphasized a broad consensus among industry stakeholders on the matter. The Tourism Department currently faces a dearth of funds to adequately enforce 56 tourism-related standards, with only a 10 million baht ($300,000) budget earmarked annually. Surawat reaffirmed the need for the fee, dismissing Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s suggestion to shelve it to spur tourist numbers. Wuthichai Luangamornlert, CEO of Siam Park City Group, echoed this sentiment. “The $9 fee would not deter tourists," said Wuthichai, citing the dwindling tourism development budget as a key concern. However, the president of the Association of Thai Travel Agents, Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn, advised the government to adopt strategies that distinguish between tourists and other arrivals to Thailand. Sisdivachr also underscored the need for transparent guidelines on the usage of the tourism fund. Additionally, Tassapon Bijleveld, executive chairman of Asia Aviation Plc, envisages further discussions with the new finance minister, Pichai Chunhavajira, on lowering fuel excise taxes – an appeal previously turned down. Rising maintenance costs and high jet fuel prices have initiated a 20% increase in airline costs. -- 2024-05-02 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

American Man Arrested For Assaulting Girlfriend With Golf Club Picture courtesy of Sanook Connor Murphy, an American YouTuber known for bodybuilding and lifestyle content, was detained yesterday by Thai police in Pattaya for attacking his 20-year-old girlfriend, Kanittha. Murphy purportedly assaulted her with a golf club, which he claimed was staged for a YouTube video. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326377-american-man-arrested-for-assaulting-girlfriend-with-golf-club/

Connor Murphy, an American YouTuber known for bodybuilding and lifestyle content, was detained yesterday by Thai police in Pattaya for attacking his 20-year-old girlfriend, Kanittha. Murphy purportedly assaulted her with a golf club, which he claimed was staged for a YouTube video. Kanittha and her younger sister sought help from a 55-year-old maid named Anchulee, reporting that Murphy became violent. Subsequently, Anchulee reported the matter to Huay Yai Police Station, and officers, along with Sawang Boriboon Foundation rescuers, hurried to the scene. Attempting to evade arrest, Murphy barricaded himself in a bathroom and only surrendered after his sister and neighbours persuaded him. He also suffered a cut to his stomach during the altercation and required medical attention. Kanittha recalled being awoken by the sound of breaking glass and discovered Murphy in a fit of rage, bleeding and shouting incoherently. A friend of Murphy asserted the incident was contrived for his YouTube channel, which boasts over 2.4 million subscribers. However, police dismissed this claim due to CCTC footage procured from a neighbour. The video reportedly shows Murphy behaving erratically before the assault. Murphy is yet to be formally charged as police are waiting for his recovery for further questioning. Picture courtesy of Sanook -- 2024-05-02 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Northern Thailand Prepares for Intense Summer Storms File photo The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) projects severe summer storms to afflict northern Thailand from May 3 to May 7. The tempests are predicted to bring heavy rains, hail, and strong winds. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326373-northern-thailand-prepares-for-intense-summer-storms/

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) projects severe summer storms to afflict northern Thailand from May 3 to May 7. The tempests are predicted to bring heavy rains, hail, and strong winds. The public is cautioned to be prepared and avoid potential risk areas, including large trees, weak structures, and billboards. Initially, westerly winds from Myanmar will affect the northern and northeastern regions until May 3. However, from May 6-7, weather patterns will change due to southeasterly and southerly winds impacting the northeastern, eastern, central, and lower northern areas. High temperatures may trigger more frequent storms. The TMD encourages preparedness, particularly among farmers, to guard against agricultural damage and secure livestock. The storms will affect certain provinces from tomorrow to May 4, including Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and others in the northern region. Specific northeastern, central, and eastern areas are also likely to be impacted. In the following days until May 6, the affected provinces will remain the same, with few additions in each region. On May 7, Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Lamphun, Tak, and others in the northern region will be hit. Certain provinces in the northeastern and central region, along with Bangkok and its environs, will also face the storm's impact. TMD recommends staying updated on the weather via their website or a 24-hour hotline. They plan to provide updates at 5 am and 5 pm on May 2. TOP: File photo -- 2024-05-02 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Pledges Support to Its AI Sector, Plans to Enhance Digital Infrastructure Microsoft Chairman and CEO Satya Nadella, second left, meets Thailand's Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, at the "Microsoft Build AI Day" event at Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, May 1, 2024. (Thailand's Government Spokesman Office via AP) Thailand's leadership, with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin at the helm, aims to strengthen the country's Artificial Intelligence (AI) industry and improve its digital framework. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326372-thailand-pledges-support-to-its-ai-sector-plans-to-enhance-digital-infrastructure/

Thailand's leadership, with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin at the helm, aims to strengthen the country's Artificial Intelligence (AI) industry and improve its digital framework. The announcement came during the Microsoft Build: AI Day Event, where the Prime Minister highlighted AI's role in reshaping a multitude of sectors. Thailand's implementation of advanced digital infrastructure, such as 5G infrastructure, broadband, mobile connectivity, and an international submarine cable network is evident. This is further supported by the 'Ignite Thailand' plan launched in February. Meant to make Thailand a regional leader in eight key industries, the initiative will lead high-tech industries towards a more secure digital ecosystem. This aligns with a three-year strategy (2024-2027) to enhance the utilization of AI and cloud computing in the country. The Board of Investment has integrated digital technology into strategic investment options, offering substantial incentives for digital-focused activities. Furthermore, the government is committed to transitioning towards green energy, with a goal to derive 50% of its energy from renewable sources by 2040. In partnership with Microsoft, a 'sustainability sandbox' will be set up to spur environmental innovation. In November last year, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed with Microsoft, cementing Thailand's mission towards an AI-driven, cloud-first future. Prime Minister Srettha recognizes this partnership as a critical step in positioning Thailand as a prime destination for the digital industry. TOP picture: Microsoft Chairman and CEO Satya Nadella, second left, meets Thailand's Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, at the "Microsoft Build AI Day" event at Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, May 1, 2024. (Thailand's Government Spokesman Office via AP) -- 2024-05-02 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Influenza Spike in Thai Prison Infects 3,000-plus Inmates File photo for reference only. Approximately 3,500 inmates in Nakhon Si Thammarat prison, Thailand, have been affected by an influenza outbreak, resulting in two deaths, according to local health authorities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326370-influenza-spike-in-thai-prison-infects-3000-plus-inmates/

File photo for reference only. Approximately 3,500 inmates in Nakhon Si Thammarat prison, Thailand, have been affected by an influenza outbreak, resulting in two deaths, according to local health authorities. The Deputy Permanent Secretary for Public Health, Dr Kittisak Aksornwong, confirmed the outbreak. Between April 19 and 28, 3,442 inmates out of the total 4,427 contracted the Type-A influenza strain. However, all inmates tested negative for Covid-19. The majority of the affected individuals displayed mild symptoms and were treated with anti-viral medication. Vulnerable inmates are closely monitored and isolated. Maharat Nakhon Si Thammarat Hospital’s Director, Dr Pongpoj Thiranantachai, revealed that 25 inmates needed hospitalization, and five required intubation due to severe symptoms like high fever and low oxygen levels. Inmates have been classified into three groups based on symptom severity. The rapid virus spread has been attributed to group activities within the prison. All prison visits have been put on hold to control further transmission, with families allowed to contact inmates through video calls. In preparation for the upcoming rainy season, the government urges seven vulnerable groups to get influenza vaccines, available for free at public hospitals from May to August. The Director-General of the Department of Disease Control, Dr Thongchai Kiratihatthayakorn, announced the distribution of 4.51 million vaccine doses to the public. Influenza infections are expected to rise in June, peaking between August and November. Vaccination can help reduce symptom severity, hospitalization, and death rates. Since the beginning of the year, influenza has infected 123,739 individuals and caused five deaths in Thailand. -- 2024-05-02 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Phuket's Water Crisis Threatens Tourism Industry File photo Bang Wad Dam Phuket's tourism industry, a significant revenue stream for the region, is threatened by a worsening water crisis. Due to decreased capacity in the primary reservoirs - Bang Wad, Klong Kata, and Bang Neow Dum, hotels are reporting increased expenses as they are forced to buy water. Local and national government has yet to establish a lasting solution to this perennial issue. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326365-phukets-water-crisis-threatens-tourism-industry/

File photo Bang Wad Dam Phuket's tourism industry, a significant revenue stream for the region, is threatened by a worsening water crisis. Due to decreased capacity in the primary reservoirs - Bang Wad, Klong Kata, and Bang Neow Dum, hotels are reporting increased expenses as they are forced to buy water. Local and national government has yet to establish a lasting solution to this perennial issue. Phuket Tourist Association President, Thanet Tantipiriyakit, expressed disappointment at the situation stating that as a primary tourist location, Phuket should have a better water supply. Sukrid Klinson, the Phuket Provincial Waterworks Authority (PWA) branch manager, revealed that Bang Wad reservoir holds a reduced 1.17 billion cubic meters (m³) of water, just 16.8% of its total 10.2 billion m³ capacity. The PWA is currently in talks with private suppliers to secure additional water totaling 1.4 million m³, planning to procure 960,000 m³. This step, however, does not resolve the issue for all affected areas. The Bang Wad Reservoir's water level is alarmingly low and without immediate significant rainfall, the PWA will be forced to limit the discharge rate from this reservoir, turning instead to private supplies. Offering a glimmer of hope, the Southern Meteorological Centre (west coast) predicts earlier than expected rainfall. This rainfall, beginning in the second week of May, is projected to be heavier than previous years. Until then, the PWA is distributing free water to needy communities and drought-impacted areas. -- 2024-05-02 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Actress Files Police Complaint Over Online Harassment Picture for reference only. Popular Thai actress, Aom Sakaojai, has lodged a police complaint against a cyberbully who posted sexually explicit and threatening comments on her Facebook page. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326362-thai-actress-files-police-complaint-over-online-harassment/

Popular Thai actress, Aom Sakaojai, has lodged a police complaint against a cyberbully who posted sexually explicit and threatening comments on her Facebook page. She filed her report with Deputy Inspector Chalerm Noppakarn of RomKlao Police Station on May 1. The online harasser, identified as Nui Yabot on Facebook, began his offensive comments on April 30, creating fear and unease for Aom and her family. Previously tolerating such inappropriate comments, Aom's decision to legally confront this level of aggression highlights the darker side of fame. Her actions underline that such behavior will not be tolerated, and legal avenues exist to safeguard the rights and safety of victims. The police have recorded Aom's report and are investigating the case to bring the cyberbully to justice. The incident not only demonstrates the ongoing issue of cyberbullying but also emphasizes the importance of confronting such online aggression. Aom's brave response sets a precedent for tackling cyberbullying in Thailand and offers encouragement for other victims to seek justice. The case illustrates that ignorant online conduct should be decisively addressed, proving that victims can be supported by the law. Picture for reference only. -- 2024-05-02 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Khon Kaen School Deputy Director Arrested for Mid-term Admission Bribes Reference picture courtesy of Vecteezy A deputy director of a school in the Mueang district of Khon Kaen has been arrested for allegedly demanding bribes from parents in exchange for mid-term admissions. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326361-khon-kaen-school-deputy-director-arrested-for-mid-term-admission-bribes/

A deputy director of a school in the Mueang district of Khon Kaen has been arrested for allegedly demanding bribes from parents in exchange for mid-term admissions. The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) apprehended the accused, following a complaint from a parent. The deputy director allegedly demanded the bribe amounting to 20,000 baht (US$ 540) for admission. Upon negotiation by the parents, the amount was brought down to 10,000 baht (US$ 270), as the child was already literate. The parents were asked to pay in cash, but they weren't given any information about its intended use. The NACC and police used marked banknotes to establish the transaction and confronted the deputy director immediately after. He was then charged with demanding a bribe and with misusing his official position. Examination of his computer revealed more instances of him soliciting bribes from other parents. He was then taken to the police station for further legal proceedings. According to preliminary findings, around 60 out of the 70 students admitted to the school during mid-term this academic term had paid bribes. Prateep Juthasorn, the deputy secretary-general of NACC Region 4, said the school seems to have political connections and most victims were pressured into withdrawing their complaints. He added that the complete evidence is expected to be compiled within 30 days and forwarded to the NACC. Reference picture courtesy of Vecteezy -- 2024-05-02 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Fake Cop Scams Migrant Workers for Cash File photo for reference only. A man posing as a highway police officer allegedly swindled three migrant workers out of 15,000 baht ($405), exploiting their failure to carry passports. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326359-fake-cop-scams-migrant-workers-for-cash/

File photo for reference only. A man posing as a highway police officer allegedly swindled three migrant workers out of 15,000 baht ($405), exploiting their failure to carry passports. The shabby extortion attempt, recorded and posted on Facebook, happened at the Wang Chan Highway Police Station in Rayong on May 1. After being stopped by the impersonator, the employer of the migrants, 56-year-old Narongsak Khunach, furnished photos of the workers' passports, which were saved on his phone. He also confirmed their legal work permits. Despite proving their legality, the fraudulent cop insisted on a 5,000 baht fine per worker plus a whopping 100,000 baht ($2,700) fine for Narongsak himself should the case go to court. Facing financial constraints, Narongsak proposed to negotiate. He eventually managed to downsize the payable fault money to 5,000 baht. The workers, on a group vacation hogheaded by Narongsak and his spouse, Thongbai Sombatboon, reportedly had saved their funds majorly for the outing’s fuel costs. The migrant workers, eager to experience the seaside for the first time, were returning home when accosted. Narongsak had to withdraw the negotiated sum from an ATM because the poseur claimed he didn't own a bank account for a money transfer. Both Narongsak and Thongbai presented the withdrawal slip of the agreed amount in a follow-up Facebook post. -- 2024-05-02 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Manhunt for Two Men Allegedly Assaulting Minors in Chon Buri File photo for reference only. A grave incident involving the assault of two underage sisters in Chon Buri is under active investigation. The victims' mother has lodged an official complaint against two brothers accused of the crime. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326356-manhunt-for-two-men-allegedly-assaulting-minors-in-chon-buri/

File photo for reference only. A grave incident involving the assault of two underage sisters in Chon Buri is under active investigation. The victims' mother has lodged an official complaint against two brothers accused of the crime. The sisters aged 14 and 16, were reportedly lured and assaulted on April 29, triggering a manhunt by local law enforcement. The victims were led into this situation under the pretext of helping to find a relative of the accused. They were coerced into two isolated locations, threatened with death, and assaulted. Post assault, the victims managed to flee and alert their mother. Police Colonel Navin Sinthurat has recognized the severity of the crime due to the victims' young age. He has directed his team to hasten the legal procedures to apprehend the suspects. After hearing about the charges, the suspects reached out to the victims, asking for mercy and expressing fear of a long imprisonment. They have offered to make amends, noting the potential impact on their aged parents. -- 2024-05-02 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Airline Insider Reveals Economy Class Seats to Dodge Picture courtesy of pixabay An airline cabin crew veteran recently identified the top three seats to steer clear of in economy class, aiming to enhance the comfort of passengers who may be limited by budget. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326354-airline-insider-reveals-economy-class-seats-to-dodge/

Picture courtesy of pixabay An airline cabin crew veteran recently identified the top three seats to steer clear of in economy class, aiming to enhance the comfort of passengers who may be limited by budget. Their number one worst seat choice is in the second row, as it generally has limited legroom owing to its proximity to first-row seats often booked by parents with small children. The sound of potentially crying babies only adds to the discomfort. The last-row seats are the next to be avoided, as per the cabin crew insider. Besides being susceptible to more turbulence, these seats' proximity to restrooms and delayed food and beverage service makes for an unappealing choice. Added to this, these seats often do not recline, making them undesirable for longer flights. Lastly, the cabin crew expert advises against the middle seat. Offers of scenic views and a wall to lean on make window seats an attractive choice, whereas aisle seats provide more legroom and easy accessibility. Middle seats, wedged between two passengers, afford neither comfort, making them the least favorable. This advice follows a recent event where the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) was called to meet with Thai Airways International Public Co. Ltd. The meeting was in response to a social media complaint from a passenger who had bought a business-class ticket yet was put in economy class. -- 2024-05-02 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Thursday 2 May 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326353-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-thursday-2-may-2024/

The Constitutional Court yesterday agreed to extend the deadline to May 18 for the Move Forward party to submit its defence against the Election Commission’s application to the court seeking the party’s dissolution and banning members from politics for ten years. The court had previously scheduled May 3rd but the party asked for a 30-day extension to gather evidence. Extremely hot weather caused a stretch of railway lines to expand and warp out of shape in the southern province of Nakhon Si Thammarat, Railway engineers managed to cool them down with water and ice to make the tracks safe for use. Chiang Mai will reclaim the title of the world's most polluted city after being in the top 5 for a week, according to the air quality index application. Weather affected flight by the national carrier singapore airlines and budget carrier Scoot airline. Around the region, In China ,At least 24 people died after part of a highway collapsed due to heavy rains in southern China's Guangdong province. A serial of aerial photographs showed wrecked vehicles lying in a deep muddy pit where the highway once ran. WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: sunny, 41C Bangkok: Sunny, partly cloudy, 38C Pattaya: Sunny, 36C Phuket and the south: Sunny, partly cloudy 33C Hua Hin: Sunny partly cloudy, 36C AQIYellow to Orange, moderate to high Green clear, yellow moderate, Orange High, Red unhealthy. Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, Royal Coast Review, Kulsawek Sawekwannakorn, Thainewsroom.com, The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Windy.com. Wunderground.com -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-05-02 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Unprecedented Heatwave Spurs High Power Demand in Thailand Picture: NNT- National News Bureau of Thailand Thailand is in the grip of a record-breaking heatwave, driving the nation's power demand to enormous levels. The Thai Meteorological Department reported that over three dozen districts across the country's 77 provinces experienced their highest ever temperatures for April, the traditionally hottest month, with some records breaking those set in 1958. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326348-unprecedented-heatwave-spurs-high-power-demand-in-thailand/