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New Bangkok Rules Limit Street Vendors to Designated Zones FILE photo The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has introduced new rules to regulate street vendors, aiming to clear pavements and create more organised, hawker-centre-style areas. The policy restricts vendor activities to specific zones, part of a larger scheme to improve public space management in the Thai capital. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340378-new-bangkok-rules-limit-street-vendors-to-designated-zones/

FILE photo The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has introduced new rules to regulate street vendors, aiming to clear pavements and create more organised, hawker-centre-style areas. The policy restricts vendor activities to specific zones, part of a larger scheme to improve public space management in the Thai capital. Under these rules, only "poor Thais" are permitted to be vendors, with restrictions on employing migrants. To qualify, applicants must be Thai citizens meeting at least one criterion: possessing a state welfare card, participating in the Baan Mankong housing scheme, or receiving aid from the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security. Vendors can acquire a one-year permit to operate, but must later prove their annual income does not exceed 300,000 baht via income tax filings. First-time filers are given a grace period to begin compliance. Those earning above this threshold will forfeit the right to operate unless the BMA revises the income cap. Approval falls under district offices' purview, prioritising vendors already in the tax system. In crowded areas, a lottery will determine vendor selection. The BMA will routinely assess vending zones' suitability to prevent disruption of street and traffic flow, maintaining pedestrian safety. Stall guidelines prohibit obstruction of public areas like footbridges or bus stops, ensuring a clear path of 1.5 to 2 metres for pedestrians. Each stall is limited to three square metres and must not block street-side pavements, with an emergency exit every ten stalls. Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt aspires to eventually relocate vendors to dedicated hawker centres, akin to Singapore. While current vending zones won't expand, some 10,000 streets traders have already moved, with efforts towards establishing these centres ongoing. -- 2024-10-11

Thai Consumer Confidence Hits 17-Month Low in September Picture courtesy: Thailand Business News Thai consumer confidence has hit a 17-month low, marking a seventh consecutive month of decline as concerns about sluggish economic growth and severe flooding cast a shadow over the outlook. This info was unveiled today, October 10, by the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340374-thai-consumer-confidence-hits-17-month-low-in-september/

Thai consumer confidence has hit a 17-month low, marking a seventh consecutive month of decline as concerns about sluggish economic growth and severe flooding cast a shadow over the outlook. This info was unveiled today, October 10, by the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce. The university's latest survey reveals that their September consumer index fell to 55.3, down from 56.5 in August. The economic challenges are weighing heavily on consumer sentiment, despite recent government efforts to inject life into the economy with handouts for vulnerable populations. Flooding has become a significant concern, having not only disrupted daily life but also dampened optimism, overshadowing positive impacts of government initiatives. University President Thanavath Phonvichai indicated that these natural disasters have exacerbated the public’s economic worries, limiting the positive impact of financial aid schemes. In response, the Thai government announced the first phase of its substantial 450 billion baht (approximately $14 billion) stimulus handout plan. Launched last month, this initiative aims to rejuvenate economic activity by providing around 45 million people with a 10,000 baht ($298) cash boost to spend within six months. The rollout began with over 14.5 million welfare card holders and disabled individuals receiving their cash payments. This scheme is designed to act as a catalyst for economic revitalisation in Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy, which reported a modest growth of 2.3% in the second quarter of 2024. The central bank maintains a conservative forecast of 2.6% growth for the year, following a 1.9% growth rate in 2023 that lagged behind other regional economies. With uncertainty looming, the Thai government hopes this injection will steer the economy back on track, reported Reuters. Picture courtesy: Thailand Business News -- 2024-10-11

Foreign Driver Crashes Car into Motorbike and Minivan in Patong By Goongnang Suksawat Patong, October 10th – A foreign driver caused a three-vehicle accident involving a sedan, a motorbike, and a minivan on Phang Mueang Sai Kor Road in Patong on Thursday morning. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340372-foreign-driver-crashes-car-into-motorbike-and-minivan-in-patong/

Patong, October 10th – A foreign driver caused a three-vehicle accident involving a sedan, a motorbike, and a minivan on Phang Mueang Sai Kor Road in Patong on Thursday morning. According to the Patong Traffic Police, they were notified of the incident at 10:30 A.M. Upon arrival, they found a damaged sedan with a broken front wheel. The motorbike, which was struck first, was situated in front of the sedan, while the minivan, which had been parked on the roadside, was found damaged nearby. Witnesses reported that the sedan initially collided with the moving motorbike before crashing into the parked minivan. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS -- 2024-10-11

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 11 October 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1340343-thailand-live-friday-11-october-2024/

Don’t ban TEMU: Thai experts call for enhanced trade standards Photo courtesy of The Nation Thailand should embrace trade opportunities with China rather than follow Indonesia’s lead in banning the Chinese e-commerce platform TEMU, say experts. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340348-don’t-ban-temu-thai-experts-call-for-enhanced-trade-standards/

Thailand triumphs in UN Human Rights council bid Photo courtesy of Thai PBS World Thailand emerged victorious in its bid to join the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) with an impressive 177 votes—the highest of all candidates—securing a coveted three-year term to champion human rights across the globe. The decision was revealed yesterday, October 9, following a secret ballot by the UN. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340349-thailand-triumphs-in-un-human-rights-council-bid/

Thaksin and Pheu Thai Party face constitutional showdown Photo courtesy of The Nation Independent lawyer Thirayut Suwankesorn, renowned for dismantling the Move Forward Party, has launched a scathing complaint against the ruling Pheu Thai Party and its influential patriarch, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340347-thaksin-and-pheu-thai-party-face-constitutional-showdown/

Pattaya City Police, in collaboration with officials from Bang Lamung District raided a house in Soi Land Office and arrested nine foreign nationals for illegal gambling. Pattaya Police Raid Poker Gambling Ring, Arrest 9 Foreign Players Full story : https://aseannow.com/topic/1340322-pattaya-police-raid-poker-gambling-ring-arrest-9-foreign-players/

Thunderstorms forecast for 40 provinces with Bangkok hardest hit by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Maksym Ivashchenko, Unsplash The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) forecasts thunderstorms for 40 provinces tomorrow, with Bangkok expected to be the hardest hit at 70%. The southern region is on alert for potential flooding, while the upper part of Thailand will experience cool weather in the morning. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340308-thunderstorms-forecast-for-40-provinces-with-bangkok-hardest-hit/

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) forecasts thunderstorms for 40 provinces tomorrow, with Bangkok expected to be the hardest hit at 70%. The southern region is on alert for potential flooding, while the upper part of Thailand will experience cool weather in the morning. TMD issued a 24-hour weather forecast, stating that a high-pressure system or cool air mass is currently weakly covering the upper northern and northeastern regions of Thailand. This condition will result in cool mornings in these areas. Meanwhile, an easterly wind is bringing moisture from the South China Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, affecting the lower northeastern, central, Bangkok and its vicinity, and eastern regions. This weather pattern will cause heavy rain in some areas of the lower central region, including Bangkok and its vicinity, and the eastern region. Residents in the upper part of Thailand are advised to take care of their health due to changing weather conditions. TMD has also provided a 10-day weather forecast, indicating the transition from the rainy to the cold season with thunderstorms and cool weather. The Department of Mineral Resources has named 14 provinces in the central and southern regions at risk of landslides and flash floods from tomorrow to October 12 The monsoon trough passing through the upper southern region is causing heavy rainfall in some areas of the south. Residents in these areas should be cautious of heavy and accumulated rainfall, which could lead to sudden flooding and flash floods, especially in foothills near waterways and low-lying areas. Additionally, the seas in the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand will have weak winds, with waves below 1 metre high, but more than 1 to 2 metres high in areas with thunderstorms. Mariners are advised to avoid sailing in thunderstorm areas. Weather forecast The northern region will have cool mornings in the upper part, with thunderstorms in 30% of the area, mostly in Chiang Mai, Lampang, Lamphun, Tak, Kamphaeng Phet, Phichit, Phitsanulok, and Phetchabun. The lowest temperature will be 22 to 24°C, and the highest will be 32 to 35°C, with easterly winds at 10 to 15 kilometres per hour. The northeastern region will also have cool mornings in the upper part, with thunderstorms in 10% of the area, mostly in Nakhon Ratchasima, Buriram, Surin, and Si Sa Ket. The lowest temperature will be 22 to 25°C, and the highest will be 32 to 34°C, with easterly winds at 10 to 25 kilometres per hour. The central region will experience thunderstorms in 40% of the area, with heavy rain in some places, mostly in Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Nakhon Pathom, Samut Songkhram, Samut Sakhon, Ayutthaya, and Saraburi. The lowest temperature will be 23 to 26°C, and the highest will be 31 to 35°C, with easterly winds at 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. The eastern region will have thunderstorms in 70% of the area, with heavy rain in some places, mostly in Nakhon Nayok, Prachinburi, Chachoengsao, Chon Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat. The lowest temperature will be 23 to 26°C, and the highest will be 31 to 34°C, with easterly winds at 10 to 30 kilometres per hour. The sea will have waves below 1 metre high, and more than 2 metres high in thunderstorm areas. The southern region (eastern coast) will have thunderstorms in 70% of the area, with heavy to very heavy rain in some places, mostly in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. The lowest temperature will be 22 to 24°C, and the highest will be 31 to 35°C, with variable winds at 10 to 30 kilometres per hour. The sea will have waves below 1 metre high and more than 2 metres high in thunderstorm areas. The southern region (western coast) will have thunderstorms in 70% of the area, with heavy rain in some places, mostly in Ranong, Phang Nga, Krabi, and Trang. The lowest temperature will be 24 to 25°C, and the highest will be 31 to 33°C, with variable winds at 10 to 30 kilometres per hour. The sea will have waves below 1 metre high, and more than 2 metres high in thunderstorm areas, reported KhaoSod. Bangkok and its vicinity will have thunderstorms in 70% of the area, with heavy rain in some places. The lowest temperature will be 24 to 26°C, and the highest will be 32 to 33°C, with easterly winds at 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Maksym Ivashchenko, Unsplash Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-10

Thai women rescued from sex racket in India by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of The Statesman In a gripping undercover operation in India, Thane police dramatically dismantled a notorious underground sex racket, rescuing nine women, including two Thai nationals. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340306-thai-women-rescued-from-sex-racket-in-india/

In a gripping undercover operation in India, Thane police dramatically dismantled a notorious underground sex racket, rescuing nine women, including two Thai nationals. This high-stakes raid just outside of Mumbai unfolded in two separate swoops, throwing a glaring spotlight on the murky world of human trafficking plaguing the region. The Thane police force, tipped off by reliable sources, acted decisively on Wednesday, October 9, to swoop on a seemingly innocuous spa nestled within a bustling mall. Led by the Anti-Extortion Cell, the crime branch orchestrated a flawless raid on Tuesday, October 8, as confirmed by Assistant Police Inspector Sunil Tarmale. An intensive First Information Report zeroed in on four individuals, including Thai suspects, responsible for masterminding the sordid affair. The charges, under section 143 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, were promptly filed at Kapurbawdi police station. Distressingly, the ostensibly innocent spa staff were coerced into a shadowy life of sex work, as revealed by the police. The operation’s mastermind, spa owner Sudhanshu Kumar Singh, and his employee, 19 year old Rahul Gaikwad, were at the heart of the investigation. As the net tightened, Gaikwad and an accomplice were apprehended on site, while the hunt for Singh and another female suspect intensified. The heroics didn’t end there. In a second bold strike, the Anti-Human Trafficking Cell analysed credible intel that led them to a seedy hotel in the Chitalsar-Manpada area on Wednesday. A decoy customer paved the way for a successful bust, liberating two more beleaguered Thai women. Among the arrests was a 38 year old Thai woman, the alleged ring leader of the operation. Senior Inspector Chetna Chowdhary, spearheading the charge, revealed a worrying trend: similar rackets, featuring Thai nationals, festering in popular hotspots such as Mumbai, Lonavala, and Goa. The two rescued Thai women are now safe in a rescue home, while investigations continue, reported News18. Chitalsar police revealed they are leaving no stone unturned, pursuing charges under BNS section 143 and the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act. As the investigation rolls on, the daring police raids offer a glimmer of hope in the relentless fight against human trafficking. by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of The Statesman Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-10

Tourism Confidence Falters; Calls for More Government Support Rise Grand Palace Bangkok. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia The tourism industry is currently in a state of distress, as the Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) reports a significant decline in confidence in the sector. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340304-tourism-confidence-falters-calls-for-more-government-support-rise/

The tourism industry is currently in a state of distress, as the Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) reports a significant decline in confidence in the sector. The tourism confidence index for the third quarter has dropped to 68, a steep fall from the pre-pandemic benchmark of 100, and even less than the previous quarter's 79. This gloomy outlook is preventing the industry's recovery, mainly due to factors like factory closures, rising unemployment, increase in non-performing loans, and severe flooding both locally and globally. In response to these challenges, the TCT is set to meet with the Tourism Authority of Thailand to advocate for increased government intervention through enhanced subsidies. Currently, they are proposing a boost in the co-payment travel scheme subsidies from 40% to 50% for the forthcoming phase. This proposal is particularly aimed at the more remote, second-tier provinces. Chamnan Srisawat, TCT president, believes that a minimum budget of 5 billion baht could spur 5 million room bookings, bolstering domestic travel. He emphasises the urgency, suggesting that waiting until the next low season might be detrimental, as 30 provinces are still reeling from recent floods. The future tourism confidence index for the fourth quarter shows slight optimism with a predicted index of 80; however, uncertainties cloud this outlook. External threats like ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, alongside the strengthening baht, could further burden the sector. Many tourism operators are experiencing revenue at a mere 47% of what was achieved in 2019. With an employment rate at 84% of pre-pandemic levels, the situation is far from stable. Occupancy rates have plummeted, particularly in regions affected by September floods, sparing only large and international hotels. Chamnan's concerns highlight the pressing need for equitable recovery throughout the entire tourism supply chain, warning that the current uneven resurgence could lead to long-term instability in an industry so vital to Thailand’s economy, reported Bangkok Post. Grand Palace Bangkok. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-10-10

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Thursday 10 October 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340299-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-thursday-10-october-2024/

NEWS - 10 - October (1).mp4 Thai Police held a press conference on October 9, announcing the largest scam equipment seizure in Thailand. Seized items included simboxes, mobile phones, and over 10,000 registered SIM cards. Two suspects, a 68-year-old Thai man and a 33-year-old Chinese man, were arrested. The raids targeted four locations in Bangkok, The equipment seized would have enabled criminals to make calls from around 3,000 phone numbers. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra urged ASEAN to avoid entanglement in geopolitical conflicts she was speaking at the 44th ASEAN Summit in Vientiane. She emphasized that peace and stability can be maintained through cooperation and pledged Thailand’s role as a promoter of peace and shared prosperity for regional development. The Department of Health will issue a new regulation to tighten control over cannabis and hemp extracts. It will set criteria for applying, granting, and renewing licenses for production, import, export, sale, and possession for medical, commercial, industrial purposes and research. those that fail to obtain a licence could cace 5 years in jail or a fine of up to 500,000 baht. Across the region Korea, Spotify has launched its free music and podcast service in South Korea, aiming to expand its audience. The platform offers both a free, ad-supported option and a premium subscription. Spotify stated this will help connect global audiences with Korean music, including K-pop. Todays Weather Chiang Mai and the north: rain and thunderstorms 32C degrees celsius Bangkok: Thunderstorms 32C Pattaya: thundery showers 30C Phuket and the south: Cloudy showers 30C Hua Hin: bright but cloudy with showers, , could see heavier rain this afternoon . 29C Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Wunderground.com The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Windy.com. -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-10-10 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5

Cannabis Extracts Face Stricter Controls Amid Regulatory Shift FILE - A marijuana plant is seen at a medical marijuana dispensary in Egg Harbor Township, N.J., March 22, 2019. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez, File) The Thai Public Health Ministry announced plans to tighten regulations on cannabis and hemp extracts, which are classified as Type 5 narcotics. This move, approved by the cabinet, aims to regulate the production, import, export, sale, and possession of these Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340298-cannabis-extracts-face-stricter-controls-amid-regulatory-shift/

FILE - A marijuana plant is seen at a medical marijuana dispensary in Egg Harbor Township, N.J., March 22, 2019. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez, File) The Thai Public Health Ministry announced plans to tighten regulations on cannabis and hemp extracts, which are classified as Type 5 narcotics. This move, approved by the cabinet, aims to regulate the production, import, export, sale, and possession of these substances more stringently. Pol Lt Gen Phanurat Lukboon, the secretary-general of the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB), revealed that the new ministerial regulations will undergo scrutiny by the Council of State to ensure legal compliance. These proposed regulations will establish detailed processes for obtaining, renewing, and paying for licenses related to cannabis and hemp extracts. These activities are primarily for medical, commercial, industrial, and scientific research purposes, with an emphasis on controlling this burgeoning sector. The draft regulation highlights that those lacking proper licenses will face penalties up to five years in prison and fines up to 500,000 baht. Notably, the commercial misuse or sale to individuals under 18 years of age attracts heavier consequences, including up to 15 years' imprisonment and fines of 1.5 million baht. The recent developments also link to a wider discussion involving cross-national concerns. On Monday, Pol Lt Gen Phanurat met with British Ambassador Mark Gooding. Both parties, alongside representatives from the Royal Thai Police and the Customs Department, discussed measures to combat the smuggling of cannabis from Thailand to the UK. British authorities reported over 200 cannabis smugglers connected to Thailand have been detained this year. The meeting explored collaborative efforts, such as data-sharing with the UK's National Crime Agency and training programmes aimed at enhancing drug analysis capabilities of AoT personnel in Thailand. This regulatory evolution reflects Thailand's intent to balance the therapeutic potential of cannabis with robust legal frameworks to curb misuse and illegal distribution channels, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-10-10

Thai Tourist Police Bolster Security for Upcoming High Season Picture courtesy: Daily News As Thailand's high tourist season approaches, the Tourist Police Division 2, Subdivision 1, is intensifying efforts to ensure visitor safety and boost the nation's tourism industry. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340297-thai-tourist-police-bolster-security-for-upcoming-high-season/

As Thailand's high tourist season approaches, the Tourist Police Division 2, Subdivision 1, is intensifying efforts to ensure visitor safety and boost the nation's tourism industry. Headed by Pol. Maj. Gen. Mom Luang Santhikorn Worawan, Commander of the Tourist Police Division 1, and under the directives of Pol. Maj. Gen. Sak Sira Phueak Am, the team is coordinating with both public and private sectors to enhance safety measures for tourists. In a recent meeting led by Pol. Col. Man Ratanathong, Division 2 Chief, and Pol. Lt. Col. Kritapon Saengsura, Tourist Police officials outlined plans to uphold public safety and enforce laws during the high season. Their approach includes cracking down on illegal activities, such as unauthorized tour services, under the Tourism Business and Guide Act of 2008. Officers were instructed to avoid any involvement in corruption and to work together to ensure the safety of tourists. According to Pol. Col. Man, the department's proactive measures aim to reduce potential risks for tourists and create a positive experience. Officers will be stationed at key tourist spots and conduct regular patrols to prevent incidents. The initiative also emphasizes service quality, aiming to build trust and promote Thailand as a safe travel destination. Tourists or locals who witness any suspicious activities can report through the Tourist Police hotline at 1155, available 24/7, or online at www.Thaipoliceonline.com. The Tourist Police Division 2 remains committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment for all visitors throughout the busy season, reported Daily News. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-10-10

Thailand Cracks Down on Illegal Bitcoin Mining Operation Picture courtesy: Daily News On October 9, Thailand's Department of Special Investigation (DSI) raided an illegal Bitcoin mining operation in Tha Muang, Kanchanaburi. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340296-thailand-cracks-down-on-illegal-bitcoin-mining-operation/

On October 9, Thailand's Department of Special Investigation (DSI) raided an illegal Bitcoin mining operation in Tha Muang, Kanchanaburi. Led by Deputy DSI Chief Pol. Lt. Col. Yutthana Praedam, the team seized 300 mining rigs used in the unauthorized setup, which reportedly caused annual losses of over 100 million baht to the government due to electricity theft. The raid followed complaints from the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) in Central Region 3, which reported suspiciously low electricity bills at several properties. Upon investigation, authorities found that the network had leased 13 commercial buildings in Kanchanaburi, where they illegally diverted power for Bitcoin mining. The miners employed electronic devices to tamper with electricity meters, reducing reported usage to just a fraction of actual consumption. For instance, in one location, the miners paid only 100 to 400 baht monthly in electricity bills, while their power use was estimated at over 150,000 baht. Authorities detained Kritsada (last name withheld), who admitted to overseeing the operation. He is now in police custody and faces charges under various criminal codes, including theft. Additionally, Pol. Lt. Col. Yutthana highlighted the economic impact of such operations, which not only deprive the state of revenue but also exploit other electricity consumers. The DSI urges local residents to report suspicious activities to the police, as investigations continue. Should any PEA employees be implicated, the DSI vows to take appropriate legal action. This crackdown marks a significant step toward curbing the economic damage caused by illegal mining activities in Thailand, reported Daily News. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-10-10