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Foreign Tour Operators Flood Phuket, Taking Jobs from Locals Picture courtesy: Daily News On October 9, a popular Facebook page, "Hodjung Phuket," shared a video clip revealing a foreign man openly selling tour packages to tourists from a street-side booth in Phuket. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340295-foreign-tour-operators-flood-phuket-taking-jobs-from-locals/

On October 9, a popular Facebook page, "Hodjung Phuket," shared a video clip revealing a foreign man openly selling tour packages to tourists from a street-side booth in Phuket. The 23-second video shows the man serving customers at a tour counter near Kata and Karon beaches, an area known for attracting tourists. The post included a caption stating, “Who needs Thais? Selling tours ourselves! No wonder locals are upset.” The video quickly sparked outrage online, with many expressing frustration over foreigners taking over jobs typically held by Thai locals. Commenters voiced their concerns, some describing Phuket as a “lawless land” and pointing out that this issue has persisted for a long time. Others noted the growing presence of foreign operators in popular areas like Kata and Karon and questioned why authorities haven’t intervened. Following the post, local reporters verified the location, identifying the tour counter near Karon Temple in Mueang district. There was no evidence of officials on-site enforcing regulations, raising questions about the oversight of such activities. The clip prompted calls for relevant authorities to investigate and regulate these businesses, which are perceived as undercutting Thai operators and evading local laws. This incident reflects a broader issue where unregulated foreign-run businesses in Phuket seem to be skirting regulations, while locals are left feeling sidelined. The page’s post has since gained significant traction, with numerous users calling for immediate action to address the influx of foreign-run tour businesses in popular tourist areas, reported Daily News. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-10-10

Thailand Tightens Airport Screening Amid Afghanistan Health Alert Picture courtesy: Siam Rath On October 9, 2024, Dr. Phanumas Yanwetsakul, Director-General of the Department of Disease Control (DDC) under Thailand's Ministry of Public Health, announced that the country is enhancing health screening measures at all major airports. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340291-thailand-tightens-airport-screening-amid-afghanistan-health-alert/

On October 9, 2024, Dr. Phanumas Yanwetsakul, Director-General of the Department of Disease Control (DDC) under Thailand's Ministry of Public Health, announced that the country is enhancing health screening measures at all major airports. This decision follows reports of an outbreak of an unidentified illness in Afghanistan, where over 500 people have been infected and two have died. Symptoms include severe fatigue, muscle pain, diarrhea, and high fever. The DDC has instructed the Bureau of International Communicable Disease Control and Quarantine to closely monitor the situation. Airline staff on flights from affected regions are advised to wear masks and gloves while serving food and cleaning restrooms. Crews are also encouraged to watch for symptoms among themselves and passengers. At Thailand’s primary airports, including Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Phuket, U-Tapao, and Hat Yai, heightened screening will focus on travelers arriving from Afghanistan. Anyone showing symptoms, such as a high fever or other signs related to the illness, will undergo additional screening at international communicable disease control checkpoints. Dr. Phanumas emphasized that these measures aim to prevent any potential spread of the disease into Thailand. The DDC will continue to assess and respond to the evolving situation to protect public health, reported Siam Rath. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2024-10-10

Thai Finance Ministry Pushes for Interest Rate Cut to Weaken Baht Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Thailand's Finance Ministry is stepping up efforts to convince the Bank of Thailand (BoT) to lower interest rates in a bid to stimulate the economy and weaken the baht. The Deputy Finance Minister, Paopoom Rojanasakul, stated in a recent interview that a 25-basis point rate cut could be expected either at the upcoming BoT meeting or the following one, hinting at imminent action. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340287-thai-finance-ministry-pushes-for-interest-rate-cut-to-weaken-baht/

Thailand's Finance Ministry is stepping up efforts to convince the Bank of Thailand (BoT) to lower interest rates in a bid to stimulate the economy and weaken the baht. The Deputy Finance Minister, Paopoom Rojanasakul, stated in a recent interview that a 25-basis point rate cut could be expected either at the upcoming BoT meeting or the following one, hinting at imminent action. The baht currently stands at 33.39 to the US dollar. Mr Paopoom suggests an appropriate level should be around 34.5 to bolster Thailand’s export and tourism sectors. Despite the BoT's consistent maintenance of the key interest rate at 2.5%, the Finance Ministry argues that current low inflation, coupled with a sluggish economy, warrants lower borrowing costs. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's administration, still in its infancy, is taking positive strides to revitalise Thailand's economy, which has suffered an average growth rate of under 2% annually over the past decade. Economic rejuvenation efforts include potentially lowering interest rates, reducing household debt, and countering the strengthened baht's influence on exports and tourism. Concerns over economic growth have arisen following recent floods, and authorities are considering measures to stimulate consumer spending. Furthermore, the government is reportedly seeking to raise the inflation target from the current range of 1% to 3% to 1.5% to 3.5%. Such a shift would align with the government's strategy of encouraging the BoT to adopt a less restrictive monetary policy. In a related development, the choice of a new BoT chairman remains under scrutiny. Efforts to promote Kittiratt Na-Ranong, a supporter of the ruling Pheu Thai Party and critic of the central bank's current policy, face opposition from some sectors. Proposals to include a politician in the role are met with cautiousness, as former BoT governor Tarisa Watanagase warns of potential detrimental impacts on the economy from government interference. The Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira, meanwhile, downplays speculations regarding the appointment of a politician, reported Bangkok Post. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-10-10

Drunk Indian Tourist Assaulted After Harassing Woman on Pattaya Beach Picture courtesy: TOP News Pattaya's Sawang Boriboon Foundation received a report of a foreign tourist being assaulted on Pattaya Beach, near Soi 13/4. Rescue volunteers were dispatched to the scene. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340285-drunk-indian-tourist-assaulted-after-harassing-woman-on-pattaya-beach/

Picture courtesy: TOP News Pattaya's Sawang Boriboon Foundation received a report of a foreign tourist being assaulted on Pattaya Beach, near Soi 13/4. Rescue volunteers were dispatched to the scene. When they arrived, they found a group of three Indian tourists, one of whom was bleeding heavily from a gash above his left eyebrow. His friends were attempting to steady him as he staggered, calling for assistance. Despite his injuries, the man refused medical aid and requested the police. Rescue personnel contacted Pattaya City Police, who arrived shortly thereafter. The man's friends pleaded with officers to find the attacker and escort the injured man to a hospital. Video screenshot Ms. Aey, a Thai woman in her mid-twenties, recounted the events leading up to the incident. She and her friends were sitting on the beach when the group of Indian men, who had been drinking nearby, approached and asked for a photo. The women agreed initially, but as the men continued to take turns taking photos, one of them allegedly put his arm around Ms. Aey’s friend, touched her stomach, and made an attempt to kiss her. This provoked her friend's husband, who struck the man in the face, leaving him unconscious on the sand. Bystanders recorded a video of the incident, which shows the Indian man lying motionless on the beach. The video captures comments from witnesses who stated that the men had harassed the woman, prompting her husband's reaction. Pattaya police have since advised the injured man to file a formal complaint to pursue legal action against the attacker. Authorities are investigating the matter and will proceed with legal measures as appropriate, reported TOP News and CH7 News. Picture courtesy: TOP News -- 2024-10-10

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 10 October 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1340271-thailand-live-thursday-10-october-2024/

Thailand Eyes UN Human Rights Council Seat with Optimism File photo for reference only Thailand is hopeful for a place on the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) as voting approaches. The election takes place this Wednesday, October 9, involving all 193 UN members casting secret ballots at the UN headquarters in New York. Cherdchai Chaivaivit, Thailand’s Permanent Representative to the UN, expressed "cautious optimism" regarding their bid. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340262-thailand-eyes-un-human-rights-council-seat-with-optimism/

German Ambassador Shares Photo with Ex-PM Thaksin, Expresses Honour Picture courtesy: Naewna In a notable diplomatic gesture, German Ambassador to Thailand, Dr. Ernst Reichel, shared a photograph on social media platform X, capturing a meeting with Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340274-german-ambassador-shares-photo-with-ex-pm-thaksin-expresses-honour/

Picture courtesy: Naewna In a notable diplomatic gesture, German Ambassador to Thailand, Dr. Ernst Reichel, shared a photograph on social media platform X, capturing a meeting with Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. The post was accompanied by a message stating, "I felt honoured today to meet former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra for a friendly and sincere conversation." The meeting between Dr. Reichel and Thaksin comes in the backdrop of growing diplomatic ties between Germany and Thailand. Earlier this year, during a visit to Germany on March 13-14 by Thailand's then Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, fruitful discussions were held with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. The talks led to an agreement to elevate bilateral relations to a strategic partnership, anticipated to extend cooperation both regionally with ASEAN and within the Indo-Pacific sphere. Key areas of collaboration discussed included enhancing cooperation in clean energy and green transition, bolstering the electric vehicle and battery industries, promoting sustainable agriculture, and advancing infrastructure development. The scope of partnership also involves technology and knowledge transfer, likely to improve exchanges of high-level visits between the two nations. Additional conversations during the meeting focused on Thailand's ambitious "Landbridge" project, ongoing negotiations for a Thai-EU free trade agreement, and the possibility of Schengen visa exemptions for Thai passport holders. Furthermore, both sides pledged to tackle regional and global challenges, such as climate change and global security, highlighting their commitment to mutual development and cooperation efforts, reported Thai Newsroom. As part of these dialogues, Thailand affirmed its dedication to supporting German investment in the automotive sector, particularly in manufacturing internal combustion engine and hybrid vehicles, underscoring a shared vision for robust economic collaboration. -- 2024-10-09

In a nationwide safety sweep, the Department of Land Transport (DLT) has ordered all vehicles equipped with compressed natural gas (CNG) or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) tanks to undergo immediate inspection. CNG and LPG vehicles face crackdown after tragic school bus fire Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340254-cng-and-lpg-vehicles-face-crackdown-after-tragic-school-bus-fire/ Photo courtesy of The Nation

Warning issued for 16 areas in Bangkok at risk of flooding by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ กรุงเทพมหานคร Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) issued a warning to people living in 16 areas across seven districts of Bangkok that are at risk of flooding, advising them to move their valuables and belongings to higher ground. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340218-warning-issued-for-16-areas-in-bangkok-at-risk-of-flooding/

Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) issued a warning to people living in 16 areas across seven districts of Bangkok that are at risk of flooding, advising them to move their valuables and belongings to higher ground. Although the flooding in Thailand this year is not as severe as the great floods of 2011 but the floodwater levels in many provinces are the highest in the past 10 years. The flooding began in the northern and northeastern parts of Thailand, and the serious flooding in Chiang Mai has only recently improved. Locals and relevant local government officials are now cleaning the affected areas, particularly the city centre and the economic zone of the province. The damage caused by the flood in Chiang Mai is estimated to reach 2 billion baht. The floodwaters are expected to gradually flow from the northern to the central regions of Thailand through several rivers, especially the Chao Phraya River. Several Thai news agencies reported yesterday, October 8, that some riverside communities in Nonthaburi province, near Bangkok, were already affected, causing concern among Bangkok residents. The BMA is closely monitoring the flood situation and the water level in the Chao Phraya River to alert people in at-risk areas to prepare for potential flooding. Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt and Deputy Governor Wissanu Subsomphon attended a survey yesterday to inspect the water level in the Chao Phraya River. According to the governor, Bangkok has 88 kilometres of flood protection walls, ranging from 2.8 to 3.5 metres in height, along the river and in some main canals connected to the river. Chadchart assured the safety of communities within the protected areas but urged those outside to remain cautious. The 16 areas in seven districts of Bangkok, which lie outside the flood protection walls include: Dusit district Soi Sri Kham (the end of Soi Samsen 19) Ratchaphathim Ruamjai community near Krung Thonburi Bridge The end of Soi Mittakham Devaraj Kunchon comunity Phranakhon district Tha Wang community Tha Tian community Samphantawong district Communities near Pathum Kongka Temple Talad Noi community Bang Khor Laem district Matanusorn community Communities behind Charoenkrung Pracharak Hospital Communities near Inbanjong Temple Communities near Bang Khlo Temple Yannawa district Rong Si community on Rama 3 Road Bangkok Noi district Dusit and Nimit Mai communities Khlong San district Charoen Nakhon Soi 29/2 Ban Chan Nak community Chadchart revealed in an interview with the news agencies that they are being vigilant. “We are monitoring and preparing at all times, and the monitoring will become more intense on October 20 when the sea level is expected to rise. For areas outside the flood protection walls, BMA officials are ready to assist affected residents.” by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ กรุงเทพมหานคร Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-09

Rain check! Bangkok braces for a drenching deluge by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Justin Aikin, Unsplash The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued a stark warning: heavy rain and cooler temperatures are on the horizon for tomorrow. A staggering 33 provinces will be affected by the weather with Bangkok expected to see a soggy 60% of its area drenched. Get ready for potential flooding and flash floods as the storm rolls in. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340214-rain-check-bangkok-braces-for-a-drenching-deluge/

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued a stark warning: heavy rain and cooler temperatures are on the horizon for tomorrow. A staggering 33 provinces will be affected by the weather with Bangkok expected to see a soggy 60% of its area drenched. Get ready for potential flooding and flash floods as the storm rolls in. In their latest forecast, the TMD reveals that a weakening high-pressure system is currently hovering over northern Thailand. While it may be losing strength, the upper northern and northeastern regions will still feel the chill in the morning. Meanwhile, an easterly wind is sweeping in moisture from the South China Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, priming the lower northeastern, central, and eastern regions—including Bangkok—for a drenching. This situation will lead to increased rainfall in these areas, with some places experiencing heavy rainfall, particularly in the lower central region, including Bangkok and surrounding provinces, and the eastern region. Residents in the upper part of Thailand are advised to take care of their health due to rapidly changing weather conditions. TMD also issued a warning for seven provinces from October 13 to October 24 to be on the lookout for high sea levels. The monsoon will affect 70% of the eastern and southern regions, with warnings of flash floods and forest runoffs. The monsoon trough passing through the central part of the southern region will cause heavy rainfall in some areas. Residents in these regions should be cautious of heavy rain and accumulated rainfall, which may lead to sudden flooding and forest runoff, especially in foothill areas near waterways and low-lying areas. Additionally, the sea waves in the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand are expected to be weak, with waves less than 1 metre high, and over 1 to 2 metres high in thunderstorm areas. Mariners are advised to avoid sailing in areas with thunderstorms. Heavy rain The northern region will experience cool weather in the morning in the upper part, with thunderstorms covering 10% of the area, mainly in Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Lamphun, Tak, and Kamphaeng Phet provinces. The minimum temperature will range from 21 to 26 degrees Celsius, and the maximum temperature will range from 32 to 35 degrees Celsius. Easterly winds will blow at a speed of 10 to 15 kilometres per hour. The northeastern region will also be cool in the morning in the upper part, with thunderstorms covering 20% of the area, mainly in Chaiyaphum, Khon Kaen, Maha Sarakham, Nakhon Ratchasima, Buriram, Surin, Sisaket, and Ubon Ratchathani provinces. The minimum temperature will range from 21 to 25 degrees Celsius, and the maximum temperature will range from 32 to 34 degrees Celsius. Northeasterly winds will blow at a speed of 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. The central region will have thunderstorms covering 40% of the area, with some places experiencing heavy rainfall, mainly in Ratchaburi, Nakhon Pathom, Samut Songkhram, and Samut Sakhon provinces. The minimum temperature will range from 22 to 25 degrees Celsius, and the maximum temperature will range from 32 to 35 degrees Celsius. Easterly winds will blow at a speed of 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. The eastern region will have thunderstorms covering 60% of the area, with some places experiencing heavy rainfall, mainly in Chon Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat provinces. The minimum temperature will range from 23 to 25 degrees Celsius, and the maximum temperature will range from 31 to 34 degrees Celsius. Easterly winds will blow at a speed of 10 to 30 kilometres per hour. The sea waves will be less than 1 metre high and over 1 to 2 metres high in thunderstorm areas. The southern region (east coast) will have thunderstorms covering 70% of the area, with some places experiencing heavy rainfall, mainly in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, and Songkhla provinces. The minimum temperature will range from 23 to 25 degrees Celsius, and the maximum temperature will range from 31 to 34 degrees Celsius. Variable winds will blow at a speed of 10 to 30 kilometres per hour. The sea waves will be less than 1 metre high and over 1 to 2 metres high in thunderstorm areas. The southern region (west coast) will have thunderstorms covering 70% of the area, with some places experiencing heavy rainfall, mainly in Phang Nga, Phuket, Krabi, Trang, and Satun provinces. The minimum temperature will range from 23 to 25 degrees Celsius, and the maximum temperature will range from 31 to 34 degrees Celsius. Variable winds will blow at a speed of 10 to 30 kilometres per hour. The sea waves will be less than 1 metre high, and over 1 to 2 metres high in thunderstorm areas, reported KhaoSod. Bangkok and its vicinity will have thunderstorms covering 60% of the area, with some places experiencing heavy rainfall. The minimum temperature will range from 24 to 26 degrees Celsius, and the maximum temperature will range from 33 to 35 degrees Celsius. Easterly winds will blow at a speed of 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Justin Aikin, Unsplash Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-09

Thailand prioritizes safety and facilitates travel during long holiday Oct 12-14 By Pattaya Mail With a high volume of travelers expected to return to their hometowns over the three-day period, the company is preparing for an estimated 80,000 to 90,000 passengers per day. BANGKOK, Thailand – The Transport Company Limited has announced measures to prioritize safety and facilitate travel during the upcoming Nawamindra Maharaj Day holiday, which will run from October 12 to 14. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340212-thailand-prioritizes-safety-and-facilitates-travel-during-long-holiday-oct-12-14/

With a high volume of travelers expected to return to their hometowns over the three-day period, the company is preparing for an estimated 80,000 to 90,000 passengers per day. BANGKOK, Thailand – The Transport Company Limited has announced measures to prioritize safety and facilitate travel during the upcoming Nawamindra Maharaj Day holiday, which will run from October 12 to 14. With a high volume of travelers expected to return to their hometowns over the three-day period, the company is preparing for an estimated 80,000 to 90,000 passengers per day. This will require around 6,000 to 7,000 bus trips daily, including services provided by the company itself, partner buses, and minivans. Under a directive from Deputy Transport Minister Surapong Piyachote, the company has instructed its divisions to deploy staff for inspections at key bus terminals. Safety checks will be conducted at the Bangkok Bus Terminal, also known as Mo Chit 2, and the Southern Bus Terminal on October 7, 10, and 11 to ensure that all vehicles are fully equipped for safe operation. By Pattaya Mail Full story: Pattaya Mail -- 2024-10-09

Chinese Luxury Housing Project Probed for Money Laundering Picture courtesy: TNA The Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) has intervened in a major luxury housing project in Nonthaburi, funded predominantly by Chinese capital, due to money laundering suspicions. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340210-chinese-luxury-housing-project-probed-for-money-laundering/

The Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) has intervened in a major luxury housing project in Nonthaburi, funded predominantly by Chinese capital, due to money laundering suspicions. Situated along the Chao Phraya River, this grand development spans 12 acres and is valued at around 1.5 billion baht. It comprises about 60 opulent five-storey villas, each complete with a basement and swimming pool, with prices ranging from 200 to 700 million baht per unit. The project is primarily owned by Chinese investors, with two Thai businessmen involved as directors. Construction began in February 2024 and is scheduled for completion a year later. Interestingly, the workforce mainly consists of Chinese labourers working on rotating tourist visas, which has attracted scrutiny from local authorities, including immigration officials. Despite having the required permits from the Nonthaburi Municipality, AMLO has issued a seizure order, suspecting illicit financial activities. This order, while not halting construction, restricts any assets from being moved from the site. The project's ongoing progression, notwithstanding the legal constraints, has only intensified the investigation. Picture courtesy: TNA Moreover, there are questions regarding the legality of the workforce, and authorities are assessing whether the necessary work permits are in place for the Chinese workers employed there. This aspect forms an integral part of the broader investigation into the operation. Project owners must now provide detailed explanations to AMLO, which is actively gathering evidence. Should these investigations confirm illicit activities, AMLO plans to initiate legal action within 90 days. This could culminate in a comprehensive asset seizure order, reinforcing Thailand's commitment to tackling money laundering and ensuring regulatory compliance in property developments, reported TNA-MCOT. Picture courtesy: TNA TOP Picture courtesy: TNA -- 2024-10-09

Pakistani Man Arrested in Krabi for Overstaying Visa by 691 days Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Krabi Immigration Police, led by Major General Songprod Sirisukha, Major General Kantawat Phongsathapadee, and Major General Sorat Eaml-ao, coordinated a raid across Krabi Province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340207-pakistani-man-arrested-in-krabi-for-overstaying-visa by-691-days/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Krabi Immigration Police, led by Major General Songprod Sirisukha, Major General Kantawat Phongsathapadee, and Major General Sorat Eaml-ao, coordinated a raid across Krabi Province. This operation, conducted alongside local police, tourist police, and highway police, aimed to check workplaces for undocumented foreign workers and to prevent activities that might disrupt local employment. During the inspection of various premises, officers encountered a man suspected of being a foreign national in Moo 6, Sai Thai Subdistrict, Krabi. He was selling Arabic-script signs. Upon requesting his documents, the man identified himself as Mr. Ahmad, a 48-year-old Pakistani national who had entered Thailand on September 16, 2022, with a 60-day tourist visa. Although his visa had expired on November 13, 2022, he continued to reside and work in Thailand without proper authorization, overstaying by 691 days. Mr. Ahmad admitted to staying and working without a valid visa or work permit. He was charged with overstaying and working illegally and was handed over to the Krabi Provincial Police Station for further legal action. From September 1 to October 8, 2024, Krabi Immigration Police reported 71 arrests, including 65 immigration violations, one unauthorized employment, and five other legal offenses. Major General Songprod noted that the operation aligns with national immigration policies, emphasizing the importance of upholding public safety and order for locals and tourists alike. Krabi, being a popular tourist destination, has strengthened security measures to ensure the well-being of residents and visitors. Authorities urge the public to report any suspicious activities to Krabi Immigration Police at 075 611097. -- 2024-10-09

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Wednesday 9 October 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340205-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-wednesday-9-october-2024/

NEWS - 09-October.mp4 The government will provide 10,000 baht per household affected by flooding nationwide to help cover cleanup costs, this is in addition to 9,000 baht compensation announced last week. A survey will be carried out to identify the households most in need in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. flooding continues in 19 provinces mainly in the North, Northeast, and Central regions and some in the South, with an estimated 66,000 households affected. The operators of more than 13, thousand gas-fuelled passenger buses have been told to suspend services pending inspections, the directive came following last week’s tragic school bus fire. The department of transport aims to inspect all CNG and LPG powered busses by the end of November, the department will also oversee inspection of more than 15, 600 passenger boats. A new law now allows customers to open packages of products ordered online before making payment. This cash-on-delivery law is aimed at protecting both customers and logistics companies. It ensures that customers have the right to refuse payment if the items they receive are defective, damaged, or do not match their order. Across the region Asian leaders including Prime Minister paetongtarn are in Vientiane Laos for the Asean summit which will also be attended by U.S Secretary of State Antony Blinken, he expects to discuss human rights in Myanmar, China's behavior in the South China Sea and Ukraine. Myanmar has sent a representative to the summit for the first time in three years. Papua New Guinea authorities and the International Monetary Fund team have reached a staff-level agreement for access of about $265 million to improve resilience to climate change in that country. Todays Weather Chiang Mai and the north: Sunny partly cloudy 32C degrees celsius Bangkok: Thundershowers 32C Pattaya: thundery showers 30C Phuket and the south: Cloudy showers 30C Hua Hin: cloudy with thundery showers and rain, clearing up late this afternoon. 31C 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 2024-10-09 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5