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British Man Found Shirtless and Agitated on Pattaya Roadside Emergency responders in Pattaya were called to assist a foreign man reportedly injured and acting erratically on a roadside near Nong Yai, Nong Prue. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342213-british-man-found-shirtless-and-agitated-on-pattaya-roadside/

Phuket’s courtroom prescription: Legal drama escalates in Swiss assault dismissal by Bob Scott Picture of Urs Fehr (right) courtesy of Bangkok Post A gripping legal battle is heating up in Phuket as the lawyer representing a woman doctor challenges the court’s shocking decision to dismiss her assault case against a Swiss man. Dr Thandao Chandam claims she was kicked in the back by 45 year old Urs Fehr, also known as David, while she sat outside his villa on Yamu Beach in Thalang district on February 24. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342200-phuket’s-courtroom-prescription-legal-drama-escalates-in-swiss-assault-dismissal/

Picture of Urs Fehr (right) courtesy of Bangkok Post by Bob Scott A gripping legal battle is heating up in Phuket as the lawyer representing a woman doctor challenges the court’s shocking decision to dismiss her assault case against a Swiss man. Dr Thandao Chandam claims she was kicked in the back by 45 year old Urs Fehr, also known as David, while she sat outside his villa on Yamu Beach in Thalang district on February 24. The court threw out the case on September 3, citing insufficient evidence against Fehr. But Dr Thandao’s legal eagle, Niphit Intharasombat, isn’t backing down. He’s filing an appeal to the Supreme Court, insisting that the testimonies of Dr Thandao and her colleague, who witnessed the incident, are far more credible than Fehr’s version of events. Fehr reportedly lost his cool over what he believed was trespassing. The situation escalated after Dr Thandao’s companion apologised and tried to leave, accepting Fehr’s claims of ownership. Niphit alleges that when they returned to the scene, Fehr attempted a second attack on the 27 year old woman, visibly enraged and further inflamed by the presence of his wife, said Niphit. “Two police officers arrived and separated the parties involved. They held mediation for over three hours, focusing on the issues of trespass and assault.” Niphit emphasised that forensic examinations confirmed Dr Thandao’s injuries. “The doctor and her colleague wouldn’t have alerted the security guard if she hadn’t been attacked.” The appeal lodged with the Phuket Kwaeng Court seeks the Supreme Court’s intervention to reopen the case and reassess the evidence. Dr Thandao’s legal team is optimistic that the appeal will lead to a fresh evaluation of the alleged assault, determined to ensure that justice is served, reported Phuket news. Original story: Swiss man acquitted in Phuket court for kicking woman doctor A Swiss man charged with kicking a woman doctor on the steps leading down to a beach outside his villa in February was acquitted by Phuket Kwaeng Court yesterday. The court extended the benefit of the doubt to the 45 year old Swiss expat Urs Fehr, also known as David. Details of the court’s ruling remain undisclosed. David faced accusations of kicking 26 year old Dr Thandao Chandam in the back while she and a friend watched the full moon on steps at Yamu beach, adjacent to his rented villa in Thalang district on February 24. Following the incident, the Swiss and his Thai wife apologised, claiming they thought the doctor was trespassing on their property. They explained that David slipped on the steps and accidentally struck Dr Thandao. Subsequent investigations revealed that the steps to the beach were not part of the rented villa and were illegally constructed. Local officials later demolished the steps. The incident generated significant public outrage and was widely covered in social and mainstream media. Residents demanded David’s expulsion, leading immigration police to revoke his visa, citing him as a societal threat. The Swiss appealed the revocation. In addition to this incident, David was fined for a separate road rage altercation involving an ambulance driver. His foundation’s licence for elephant conservation was scrutinised, and officials revoked licences for a pistol and rifle registered to him and his foundation. The court yesterday declared David not guilty of the incident that incited public outcry. Kasem Chandam, Dr Thandao’s father, confirmed the court’s decision, stating that his daughter was upset by the ruling. He mentioned that her lawyers would request a full copy of the court’s judgement in the coming days. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-31

Airports of Thailand: 120m Passengers Boost Growth FILE photo Airports of Thailand (AoT) recently reported a significant rise in air traffic, marking nearly 120 million passengers during the last fiscal year ending 30 September. This figure represents a 19% increase compared to the prior year, showcasing a strong recovery for the aviation industry post-pandemic. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342199-airports-of-thailand-120m-passengers-boost-growth/

FILE photo Airports of Thailand (AoT) recently reported a significant rise in air traffic, marking nearly 120 million passengers during the last fiscal year ending 30 September. This figure represents a 19% increase compared to the prior year, showcasing a strong recovery for the aviation industry post-pandemic. AoT manages six major airports: Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Mae Fah Luang in Chiang Rai, and Krabi. Of the total passengers recorded, 72.6 million were international travellers, a notable 34.8% increase, while domestic flyers marginally rose by 1%, amounting to 46.6 million. Flight movements at these hubs totalled 732,690, up 14.5% year-on-year. Notably, international flights surged by 29.3% to 416,190, whereas domestic services saw a slight decrease, showing a 0.73% drop. The AoT anticipates further growth, with expectations of 129.9 million passengers and over 800,000 flights in the current year. Kerati Kijmanawat, AoT president, shared that this growth is set to continue into the winter season, with 370,239 flights scheduled. This represents a 22.1% increase from last year's figures, driven largely by inbound flights from China, Malaysia, India, Singapore, and Hong Kong. Such expansions necessitate improved aviation services, a goal addressed by Mr Kijmanawat as the AoT aims for global recognition as a top-tier flight operator, reported Bangkok Post. On a related note, Aeronautical Radio of Thailand (Aerothai) highlighted adjustments to flight paths due to changing weather patterns. To ensure safety during the cool season months, planes approaching Bangkok's two main airports - Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang - might require revised routes over the city centre, an adjustment prompted by forecasted shifts in wind conditions. -- 2024-10-31

Bangkok City Council Approves Waste Collection Fee Hike for Non-Sorting Households The Bangkok Metropolitan Council has approved a new ordinance revising waste management fees under public health regulations. Households that separate their waste will continue to pay the existing rate of 20 baht per month, while those failing to sort their waste will now face an increased fee of 60 baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342192-bangkok-city-council-approves-waste-collection-fee-hike-for-non-sorting-households/

The Bangkok Metropolitan Council has approved a new ordinance revising waste management fees under public health regulations. Households that separate their waste will continue to pay the existing rate of 20 baht per month, while those failing to sort their waste will now face an increased fee of 60 baht. On 30 October, at the Bangkok Metropolitan Council meeting chaired by Council President Surachit Phongsingh, the council reviewed the ordinance on waste collection fees. Following unanimous support, with 34 members in favour and two abstentions, the ordinance is expected to be published in the Royal Gazette and come into effect in 180 days. Deputy Governor Chakkapan Phiwngam stated that the fee adjustment aims to encourage households to participate in waste sorting, which could help reduce waste management costs. The Deputy Governor added that Bangkok spends approximately 2,300 baht per ton on waste disposal, a cost currently not covered by the collected fees. To facilitate participation, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) will enable residents to register for the reduced fee through the BKK app or by visiting any of Bangkok's 50 district offices. Those who verify their participation in waste sorting will pay 20 baht per month. Around 50,000 of the city's estimated two million households have joined the initiative so far, and further surveys will be conducted to track progress. By promoting waste sorting, the BMA aims to reduce both the environmental impact and the financial burden of waste disposal across the city, reported Daily News. -- 2024-10-31

House Passes Bill Banning Physical Punishment of Children Picture courtesy: The Philadelphia Tribune In a significant legislative move, the House of Representatives today approved a draft bill aimed at prohibiting physical punishment of children. This comes as part of an effort to amend the Civil and Commercial Code to better protect children's rights. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342183-house-passes-bill-banning-physical-punishment-of-children/

In a significant legislative move, Thailand's House of Representatives today approved a draft bill aimed at prohibiting physical punishment of children. This comes as part of an effort to amend the Civil and Commercial Code to better protect children's rights. The special committee reviewing the bill had proposed changes to Section 3, explicitly stating that "abusive or violent actions must not be taken in punishing children to adjust their behaviour, nor should they be physically or mentally harmed or have improper action taken against them." Interestingly, the committee's minority disagreed with including the phrase "or be whipped," suggesting its removal. However, the House ultimately voted to uphold this minority view, leading to the revised text: "abusive or violent actions must not be taken in punishing children to adjust their behaviour, nor should they be physically or mentally harmed or improper action taken against them." This decisive vote saw 391 members in favour, with only one against, one abstention, and five not voting. The overwhelming support reflects a growing consensus on the need to move away from punitive disciplinary methods towards more constructive approaches. The amendment reflects modern views on child development and discipline, acknowledging the potential long-term harm of physical punishment. It also aligns with international standards and commitments to uphold children's rights. This legislative change is expected to have a broad impact, influencing how discipline is approached in homes and public institutions. Advocates for children's rights have welcomed the move, viewing it as a step forward in ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all children. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, it will be closely monitored by interest groups and the public alike, marking a pivotal shift in the legal landscape concerning child welfare, reported Thai Newsroom. Picture courtesy: The Philadelphia Tribune -- 2024-10-31

Stressed Father Holds Two Children Hostage After Argument with Wife Picture courtesy: Siam Rath An intense family drama unfolded in Bangkok's Bang Rak district yesterday, involving a father who detained his two children following a heated dispute with his wife. Tensions escalated to critical levels after the disagreement prompted the wife to leave their home in Trok Khun Nava alley. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342176-stressed-father-holds-two-children-hostage-after-argument-with-wife/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath An intense family drama unfolded in Bangkok's Bang Rak district yesterday, involving a father who detained his two children following a heated dispute with his wife. Tensions escalated to critical levels after the disagreement prompted the wife to leave their home in Trok Khun Nava alley. Local reports indicate the man, in a fit of anger, held his children—a boy aged 11 and a girl aged 8—and allegedly threatened to harm them. The situation became even more perilous when he reportedly poured petrol around the inside of their row house, threatening to ignite a fire. Neighbours, alarmed by the escalating tension, alerted the authorities. Police and rescue workers promptly arrived at the scene, with fire crews on standby due to the potential threat of a blaze. Officers engaged in a tense negotiation with the father, attempting to defuse the dangerous situation and ensure the children's safety. The ordeal continued for nearly two hours while the authorities worked to calm the father and persuade him to release the children unharmed. Eventually, the intense negotiations bore fruit, with the children being released safely just before 5 pm. After the peaceful resolution, the man was taken to the Bang Rak police station for further questioning. Details about the man's motives or the nature of the argument with his wife remain undisclosed as the investigation continues. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential volatility within family dynamics and the crucial role of community vigilance in ensuring safety. Thankfully, the swift intervention by authorities led to a resolution without harm to the children or the community, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-10-31

People’s Party Gathers Support for New Education Reform Bill Picture courtesy: Wikipedia The People’s Party (PP), a leading opposition force, is actively seeking public input for the recently proposed national education bill. As Parliament takes a break, the PP aims to collect a wide range of opinions from educators, parents, students, and various societal sectors to ensure the bill meets diverse educational needs. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342174-people’s-party-gathers-support-for-new-education-reform-bill/

Picture courtesy: Wikipedia The People’s Party (PP), a leading opposition force, is actively seeking public input for the recently proposed national education bill. As Thailand's Parliament takes a break, the PP aims to collect a wide range of opinions from educators, parents, students, and various societal sectors to ensure the bill meets diverse educational needs. At the forefront of this initiative is Parit Wacharasindhu, a list-MP of the PP. He emphasises that the bill is designed to be a cornerstone of educational reform in the country. It promises to enhance national competitiveness, promote equal opportunities, and engage citizens in shaping education policies. The goal is sustainable national development through quality education. Crafted over the past year, the bill incorporates key issues from the dissolved Move Forward Party, ensuring a comprehensive solution that aligns with national needs. It focuses on multiple areas, including lifelong learning, student welfare, and decentralised education. It also advocates for a skills-oriented approach to student development, supported by flexible study options. Mr Parit stressed that the reform extends beyond mere legislative change. While the bill lays the groundwork, continuous adaptation and public involvement are vital for its success. During the Parliament's recess from 31st October to 11th December, the PP will engage with stakeholders through discussions and consultations to refine the bill further. The party's campaign will spread awareness and gather support over the next two months. Major priorities include ensuring accessible quality education, developing curricula, uplifting teaching standards, leveraging technology, and encouraging greater student participation in managing education. Additionally, the bill seeks to overhaul the budgeting process for more effective resource allocation. By actively involving the community, the PP hopes to solidify a robust framework for educational excellence and innovation, setting the stage for its parliamentary debut, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-10-31

Thailand’s Medical Insurance Rules Confuse Tourists Picture courtesy: Freepik Recent events have highlighted a pressing issue that has left many tourists in Thailand perplexed: medical insurance coverage. Jonathon Cobb, a 28-year-old tourist from the UK, uncovered this muddle firsthand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342168-thailand’s-medical-insurance-rules-confuse-tourists/

High-Speed Rail Project Linking Airports Faces New Delay Picture courtesy: MGR online The ambitious high-speed rail project connecting Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, and U-Tapao airports has hit another delay, stemming from disagreements within the coalition government. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342172-high-speed-rail-project-linking-airports-faces-new-delay/

Picture courtesy: MGR online The ambitious high-speed rail project connecting Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, and U-Tapao airports has hit another delay, stemming from disagreements within the coalition government. The proposed revisions to the contract need the coalition partners' approval, but according to sources from the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) Policy Committee, internal disagreement has caused a stall in progress. Initially agreed upon in principle by the committee, the revisions were anticipated to receive cabinet approval at this week's meeting. However, the government is still negotiating, leaving the project's timeline in question. Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit remains optimistic, indicating that he expects resolution soon, with hopes of cabinet submission in the coming weeks. Once the cabinet grants approval, the committee will negotiate with concession holder Asia Era One, a consortium spearheaded by the Charoen Pokphand (CP) Group. The outcome will then need further approval from both the cabinet and the Office of the Attorney-General. The original contract, inked in 2019, included a concession agreement for operating the Airport Rail Link (ARL). The ARL witnessed a significant dip in ridership during the Covid-19 pandemic, prompting Asia Era One to seek compensation, leading to the 2021 cabinet-approved contract revisions. Mr Suriya has openly dismissed claims that the adjustments unduly benefit private partners. This rail project holds the status of a flagship undertaking under the EEC initiative, designed to seamlessly connect the nation’s three major airports. However, delays in revising the contract could have a domino effect, potentially stalling the crucial U-Tapao airport development as well. With efforts ongoing to resolve land issues related to the U-Tapao Airport and Eastern Aviation City project, commencement of rail construction isn’t expected for five years. This schedule pushes the anticipated operational date to 2029, reflecting a five-year setback, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-10-31

Picture courtesy: Freepik Recent events have highlighted a pressing issue that has left many tourists in Thailand perplexed: medical insurance coverage. Jonathon Cobb, a 28-year-old tourist from the UK, uncovered this muddle firsthand. While travelling in Pattaya, Cobb suffered a severe accident after falling from a motorcycle, resulting in a broken arm and facial injuries. Under the impression that the Thai government offered free medical treatment to foreigners holding tourist visas, he sought assistance, only to find out otherwise. Though the Thai government does provide coverage under the Health Insurance for Non-Thais (HINT) scheme, specifics seem to elude many. Cobb’s insurance was denied due to a clause excluding incidents involving "negligence, intent, illegal acts or risky behaviour," exacerbated by his lack of a crash helmet, reported Barry Kenyon for Pattaya Mail The scheme covers amounts up to one million baht, roughly £28,000, but his case didn’t qualify. Ultimately, Cobb’s family faced a hospital bill of approximately £7,000, besides another £700 for motorcycle damages. The scenario has drawn attention to the broader misunderstanding many tourists face regarding Thailand's medical insurance provisions. UK-based insurer Worldwide Travelling points out the current inconsistencies: coverage ideally includes major health outcomes like the loss of limbs or death, but the process remains fraught with complexities. An official Thai tourist ministry website offers a registration link that seems compromised, while actual claim data is managed by separate institutions, leaving many foreigners unaware of where to turn. Adding to the complexity, Thailand’s numerous visa types come with varied medical insurance requirements. The newly introduced Destination Visa Thailand, Elite Visa, and Long-Term Residence visa all bear distinct conditions, further clouding the picture for long-stay foreigners. Notably, foreign retirees with an OA visa mandatorily need insurance, whereas others don’t. As this issue garners attention, Thailand aims to streamline its processes. Immigration lawyer Jessataporn Bunnag notes that a governmental committee is reviewing existing visa conditions, but clarity remains awaited since its formation last July. For now, tourists and expats tread carefully amidst policy intricacies, hoping for a more straightforward system soon. -- 2024-10-31

Legal Action Taken Against Thirty-Seven Illegal Taxi Drivers in Karon By Goongnang Suksawat Karon, Phuket – The Karon Police have clarified that they have taken legal action against 37 illegal taxi drivers over the past four months. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342170-legal-action-taken-against-thirty-seven-illegal-taxi-drivers-in-karon/

Karon, Phuket – The Karon Police have clarified that they have taken legal action against 37 illegal taxi drivers over the past four months. This response comes after concerns were raised on social media about the perceived lack of serious action against illegal taxi drivers in the area. The Karon Police informed the Phuket Express that traffic police have been setting up checkpoints twice a day to crack down on illegal taxi operations. In the past four months, 37 drivers have been found using personal vehicles to transport tourists as illegal taxis, commonly referred to as “Black Plates.” By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS -- 2024-10-31

Iconic City Sign of Pattaya Getting an Upgrade, Set for Completion Before New Year Countdown By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya — Pattaya’s iconic “PATTAYA CITY” sign is getting a major upgrade to prepare for the city’s New Year Countdown event. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342169-iconic-city-sign-of-pattaya-getting-an-upgrade-set-for-completion-before-new-year-countdow/

Pattaya — Pattaya’s iconic “PATTAYA CITY” sign is getting a major upgrade to prepare for the city’s New Year Countdown event. The plan was announced by Mr. Manoch Nongyai, Deputy Mayor of Pattaya, who stated that the “PATTAYA CITY” sign, located on Phra Tamnak Hill, is an important landmark that has long attracted tourists from around the world. This iconic symbol of Pattaya has been in place for over 15 years and has naturally deteriorated over time. In response, the city has allocated a budget and hired a contractor to repair and improve the sign. The renovations will include updating the sign’s design, refreshing its colors, and adding vibrant LED lights to illuminate it at night. The contractor has already been assigned the task and has begun work, Mr. Manoch said. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS -- 2024-10-31

Cabinet Grants Citizenship to 483,000 Long-Term Residents byKrajangwit Johjit The Cabinet has approved citizenship for 483,000 long-term migrants and children born in Thailand, with the policy set to take effect within 60 days. The decision, announced on October 29, is expected to support multiple sectors by formally recognizing individuals who have resided in Thailand for years. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342167-cabinet-grants-citizenship-to-483000-long-term-residents/

The Cabinet has approved citizenship for 483,000 long-term migrants and children born in Thailand, with the policy set to take effect within 60 days. The decision, announced on October 29, is expected to support multiple sectors by formally recognizing individuals who have resided in Thailand for years. According to Prime Minister’s Office Spokesperson Jirayu Huangsap, the policy follows recommendations from the National Security Council to address nationality and legal status issues for long-term migrants and children born in the country. This new resolution replaces a previous one from January 2021. The affected groups include around 120,000 individuals who arrived between 1984 and 1999, approximately 215,000 between 2005 and 2011, 29,000 children born to ethnic minorities, and 113,000 children born to individuals without legal status, totaling 483,000 people. The spokesperson outlined that reviewing applications individually for this large group could take up to 44 years, prompting the Cabinet to streamline procedures. The Ministry of Interior has been tasked with finalizing detailed regulations for implementation, which are expected to be issued within 30 to 60 days. Jirayu reiterated that granting citizenship acknowledges these individuals’ longstanding presence and contributions to Thailand. Most already possess essential documentation and are employed within the country. The formal status will provide them with greater freedom of movement, enable increased economic participation, and improve the ability to track residency and backgrounds in public records. by Krajangwit Johjit Source: NNT -- 2024-10-31

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 31 October 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1342158-thailand-live-thursday-31-october-2024/

British Airways spreads its wings: Gatwick-Bangkok flights back on Picture courtesy of British Airways In a move that’s set to soar to new heights, British Airways relaunched its direct flights from London Gatwick to the bustling city of Bangkok. The inaugural flight, BA 2231, took to the skies from Gatwick, yesterday, October 29, making a graceful touchdown at Suvarnabhumi Internationa Airport this afternoon, marking a triumphant return to the Land of Smiles. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342146-british-airways-spreads-its-wings-gatwick-bangkok-flights-back-on/