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New Law Allows Buyers to Inspect Online Orders Before Payment Reference photo: Doc. Antara In a significant move to bolster consumer protection, a new law in Thailand now permits online shoppers to examine their packages before making payment. This regulation came into force on October 3, following its publication in the Royal Gazette on July 5, as confirmed by Minister of the Prime Minister's Office, Jiraporn Sindhuprai. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340203-new-law-allows-buyers-to-inspect-online-orders-before-payment/

In a significant move to bolster consumer protection, a new law in Thailand now permits online shoppers to examine their packages before making payment. This regulation came into force on October 3, following its publication in the Royal Gazette on July 5, as confirmed by Minister of the Prime Minister's Office, Jiraporn Sindhuprai. Dubbed the "Contract Committee Notification on CoD Service law," this legislation impacts cash-on-delivery (CoD) transactions, providing a safety net for both consumers and logistics companies amidst the surge in online shopping. The law entitles buyers to reject payment for goods that are defective, damaged, or do not match their orders upon arrival. Under this new system, recipients are required to return the entire batch of goods, even if only a portion is incorrect, within five days. Should the goods be in satisfactory condition and align with the order, the transaction proceeds as usual. However, if the complaint is validated, customers must be refunded within 15 days. Delivery personnel play a crucial role in this process, as they are obligated to furnish a receipt immediately following payment. This receipt includes vital information such as the buyer’s details, order specifics, tracking number, and both the driver's and an authorised signature. Additionally, the law mandates the recording of a video or photo of the package being opened, ensuring transparency and accountability. Furthermore, logistics companies must promptly collect returned goods from customers within five days without imposing a collection fee. They are tasked with reviewing complaints and thoroughly examining returned items to ascertain their validity. This "Dee-Delivery" initiative not only safeguards consumers from receiving unsatisfactory products but also fortifies fair business practices within the logistics sector. By implementing these measures, the Thai government aims to eliminate fraudulent schemes where consumers receive items that don't reflect the value or specifications of their original purchase, reported Bangkok Post. Reference photo: Doc. Antara -- 2024-10-09

Buses and Dining Cruises Under Scrutiny for Safety Checks FILE - Thailand's Prime Minister-designate Paetongtarn Shinawatra, with members of Pheu Thai party talks to reporters during a press conference at Pheu Thai party headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand, Friday, Aug. 16, 2024. (AP Photo/Wason Wanichakorn) Following a tragic school bus fire in Thailand, which claimed the lives of 20 students and three teachers, comprehensive safety inspections have been mandated for all gas-fuelled passenger buses. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340193-buses-and-dining-cruises-under-scrutiny-for-safety-checks/

South African teacher vanishes in Cambodia after date with British man Photo courtesy of Khmer Times The search is on for a young South African teacher who vanished without a trace in Cambodia’s capital Phnom Penh after a date with a British man known only as Jack. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340202-south-african-teacher-vanishes-in-cambodia-after-date-with-british-man/

Photo courtesy of Khmer Times The search is on for a young South African teacher who vanished without a trace in Cambodia’s capital Phnom Penh after a date with a British man known only as Jack. The South African teacher, 26 year old Angelique Tong, was last seen on September 29 after a dinner at Harry’s Bistro, a popular riverside spot in the Cambodian capital. Tong, who had been living in Phnom Penh and working as a teacher at Smart Kids PP, met Jack, a British man, two weeks before her disappearance. Since that evening, she hasn’t been heard from, and her phone remains off. Tong, who was scheduled to return to work yesterday, October 7, didn’t show up, leaving her colleagues and friends deeply concerned. A formal appeal for information has been issued as her disappearance enters its second week. Described as having blonde hair, hazel eyes, and standing 1.58 metres tall, Angelique weighs around 50 kilogrammes and has a distinctive Khmer script tattoo on her right forearm. Photo courtesy of Tripadvisor Local police and Crest Hawk Investigations, who have taken on the case, are urging anyone with information to come forward. “We’re working tirelessly to find Angelique and hope someone may have seen something,” said a spokesperson from the investigation team. Tong’s last known companion, Jack, remains a mystery. Police are appealing for any information about him and his possible involvement in her disappearance, reported Khmer Times. Anyone with details regarding Angelique’s whereabouts can contact Crest Hawk Investigations at +855(0)9646 50033 or via email at [email protected]. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-09

FILE - Thailand's Prime Minister-designate Paetongtarn Shinawatra, with members of Pheu Thai party talks to reporters during a press conference at Pheu Thai party headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand, Friday, Aug. 16, 2024. (AP Photo/Wason Wanichakorn) Following a tragic school bus fire in Thailand, which claimed the lives of 20 students and three teachers, comprehensive safety inspections have been mandated for all gas-fuelled passenger buses. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has ordered approximately 13,426 of these buses, which run on compressed natural gas (CNG) or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), to halt operations until they pass inspections by the Department of Land Transport (DLT). These safety checks must be completed by 30th November. This decisive action comes after safety breaches were uncovered in the bus involved in the catastrophic fire in Pathum Thani. In response, the Ministry of Education is collaborating with the DLT to advise schools against using gas-powered vehicles for field trips and transports until the inspection process concludes. In addition to buses, dining cruises and passenger boats are also being subjected to rigorous safety evaluations across the nation. The Ministry of Transport, under Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri's directive, has initiated inspections for 15,685 passenger boats, focusing on those using cooking gas, which include 108 dining cruises. Inspectors will be assessing components such as structural stability, fuel and electrical systems, fire safety equipment, licensing compliance, and safety gear. Boat operators must adhere to weather updates and comply with sailing regulations to ensure passenger safety. In Bangkok and its vicinity, about 100 public transport boats operate on diesel and biodiesel, with another 35 running on electric power. The Chao Phraya River hosts 52 dining cruises, which will now face heightened safety measures, including separating cooking and passenger areas, maintaining an adequate number of extinguishers in cooking zones, and restricting the number of gas cylinders onboard. These proactive measures emphasize the commitment to enhance safety standards in the wake of recent accidents, aiming to prevent further tragedies on both land and water, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-10-09

Americans in Thailand Walk to Exercise the Right to Vote Overseas By Adam Judd Non-Partisan Gathering Shows Support for the Upcoming US Election Americans living in Thailand will come together on Thursday, October 10 from 12 noon to 1 pm to show their support for US electoral democracy by exercising their right to vote in front of the US Embassy in downtown Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340200-americans-in-thailand-walk-to-exercise-the-right-to-vote-overseas/

Non-Partisan Gathering Shows Support for the Upcoming US Election Americans living in Thailand will come together on Thursday, October 10 from 12 noon to 1 pm to show their support for US electoral democracy by exercising their right to vote in front of the US Embassy in downtown Bangkok. The 2024 Election Ballot Walk will see a large, non-partisan group of Americans walk down down Witthayu (Wireless Road) from the Au Bon Pain (in front of GPF Tower) at midday with their ballots, and deposit their ballots in the official US Citizen Services drop box in front of the Embassy. Ballots returned via that box are sent back to the US by the Embassy, and mailed to the states to be counted in the November 5, 2024 national election. “This walk is a symbol of American democracy in action, which allows Americans wherever they are in the world to vote in our national election,” said Harold Hibbert, Vice-Chair at Democrats Abroad Thailand. “Overseas Americans being able to use their voice and exercising their right to vote is part of what makes our system special, and we strongly support the US Embassy’s role in facilitating the vote by sending our ballots back to the US.” By Adam Judd Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS -- 2024-10-09

Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV An intense scene unfolded in Udon Thani, Thailand, when a dramatic argument erupted at a motorcycle repair shop over a missing sum of 3,000 baht. The dispute involved a local man, Mr. Thanabodin, and Ms. Aziza, a 23-year-old Indian national, sparking curiosity and concern among local residents. Police were called to the scene when Mr. Thanabodin accused Ms. Aziza of stealing the money from his yellow cloth bag, which he had placed on a swing while assisting with repair work. Aziza, who had visited the shop to fix her bicycle tyre, firmly denied any wrongdoing. The argument intensified, with Thanabodin alleging that Aziza had been the only person near his belongings when the money went missing. To decisively prove her innocence, Ms. Aziza took an unprecedented step: she began to strip in front of police officers and bystanders to demonstrate she had nothing to hide. As she removed her clothes, police and witnesses urged her to stop, suggesting a more discreet search. Eventually, the search moved to the privacy of the shop's bathroom. Thanabodin explained he noticed the money missing when he checked the bag while the repairs were ongoing. "When I opened the bag, I found that three 1,000 baht notes were missing, only some hundred and twenty baht notes were left. I thought that this woman had definitely stolen my money and when I asked her she yelled that she didn’t take it, so I called the police," he recounted, reported THai Newsroom. The unusual incident highlights the complexities and cultural nuances in resolving disputes, especially in foreign lands. With no money found on Aziza, the case remained unsolved at the time of reporting, leaving lingering questions about the missing cash. Authorities have continued to investigate, seeking clarity amidst the finger-pointing and allegations. -- 2024-10-09

Indian Woman Strips in Defence Against Theft Claim Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV An intense scene unfolded in Udon Thani, Thailand, when a dramatic argument erupted at a motorcycle repair shop over a missing sum of 3,000 baht. The dispute involved a local man, Mr. Thanabodin, and Ms. Aziza, a 23-year-old Indian national, sparking curiosity and concern among local residents. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340191-indian-woman-strips-in-defence-against-theft-claim/

A year has passed since the Hamas attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, and the whereabouts of six Thai hostages taken during the incident remain a mystery. Despite ongoing efforts, there has been no news from Hamas regarding these individuals, according to Orna Sagiv, Israel's ambassador to Thailand. Hamas has refused any interaction with international bodies, like the Red Cross, preventing visits to hostages, heightening concerns about their status. "Unfortunately, we don’t know," stated Sagiv at a commemoration ceremony in Bangkok. Nevertheless, she assured that Israel is dedicated to retrieving the hostages, including the six Thais, and is urging global governments to join in these efforts. Initially, 31 Thais were taken hostage; 23 have since been released, but two have been confirmed dead. The situation remains uncertain for the remaining six. Meanwhile, Israel has taken measures to ensure the safety of approximately 35,000 Thai workers still within its borders. The government has placed these workers in designated green zones, assuring that they are not in high-risk areas. Sagiv highlighted the Israeli government's proactive steps to protect Thai nationals, including disseminating safety information in Thai and constructing shelters in vulnerable zones. She emphasized the importance of following Israeli safety protocols, such as seeking shelter immediately when sirens blare, to minimise risks. Despite the volatile security environment, these measures have kept most Thai workers safe. The ambassador noted the comparatively low casualty rate amid recent missile attacks, attributing it to strict adherence to safety guidelines. In related developments, information has surfaced about potential threats from Hezbollah, suggesting plans that could replicate last year's tragic events. However, Israel remains vigilant, focusing on preventing such incidents and securing its population, including foreign workers. Sagiv confirmed that efforts are in place to ensure that Thai workers are distant from potential conflict zones in northern Israel, reported Bangkok Post. FILE PHOTO courtesy: MGR Online -- 2024-10-09

Thai Hostages Still Missing a Year After Hamas Attack FILE PHOTO courtesy: MGR Online A year has passed since the Hamas attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, and the whereabouts of six Thai hostages taken during the incident remain a mystery. Despite ongoing efforts, there has been no news from Hamas regarding these individuals, according to Orna Sagiv, Israel's ambassador to Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340196-thai-hostages-still-missing-a-year-after-hamas-attack/

to continue: Thailand Live Wednesday 9 October 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1340177-thailand-live-wednesday-9-october-2024/

Thailand Faces Economic Decision Amid Rising Currency Concerns Thailand's economic landscape is under scrutiny as Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira and Bank of Thailand (BOT) Governor Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput discuss the nation's household debt and explore the possibility of an interest rate cut. With the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) scheduled to meet on October 16, all eyes are on their decision on the current 2.50% rate, especially given the baht's recent appreciation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340172-thailand-faces-economic-decision-amid-rising-currency-concerns/

PM Paetongtarn Faces Legal Battle Over Advisor Appointments FILE - Leader of Pheu Thai Party, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, daughter of Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, talks to reporters during a press conference in Bangkok, Thailand, Thursday, Aug. 15, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, daughter of the influential Pheu Thai leader Thaksin Shinawatra, is embroiled in a new legal skirmish aimed at her removal from office. The controversy stems from appointing Nattawut Saikua and Surapong Suebwonglee, both of whom have previous criminal convictions, to advisory roles. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340169-pm-paetongtarn-faces-legal-battle-over-advisor-appointments/

An 82 year old Swiss man was arrested at Phuket International Airport after security found a handgun tucked away in his luggage. Elderly Swiss man busted with gun at Phuket Airport Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340160-elderly-swiss-man-busted-with-gun-at-phuket-airport/ Photo courtesy of Phuket News

PM Paetongtarn Faces Legal Battle Over Advisor Appointments FILE - Leader of Pheu Thai Party, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, daughter of Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, talks to reporters during a press conference in Bangkok, Thailand, Thursday, Aug. 15, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, daughter of the influential Pheu Thai leader Thaksin Shinawatra, is embroiled in a new legal skirmish aimed at her removal from office. The controversy stems from appointing Nattawut Saikua and Surapong Suebwonglee, both of whom have previous criminal convictions, to advisory roles. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340169-pm-paetongtarn-faces-legal-battle-over-advisor-appointments/

FILE - Leader of Pheu Thai Party, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, daughter of Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, talks to reporters during a press conference in Bangkok, Thailand, Thursday, Aug. 15, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, daughter of the influential Pheu Thai leader Thaksin Shinawatra, is embroiled in a new legal skirmish aimed at her removal from office. The controversy stems from appointing Nattawut Saikua and Surapong Suebwonglee, both of whom have previous criminal convictions, to advisory roles. Today, Palang Pracharath's Ruangkrai Leekitwatana lodged a formal complaint with the Election Commission, alleging that Paetongtarn breached political ethics with these appointments. Nattawut, a former cabinet member and leader of the Red Shirt movement supporting Pheu Thai, and Surapong, who previously served as deputy prime minister and finance minister, both have histories of criminal convictions, making their appointments contentious. Ruangkrai's complaint draws parallels with the recent ousting of former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who was removed for appointing Pichit Chuenban, a lawyer with a criminal record, as a minister. The activist insists that Paetongtarn’s actions mirror this breach and has urged the Election Commission to quickly appeal to the Constitutional Court to suspend her from her duties pending a final judgement. Surapong Suebwonglee, Nattawut Saikua, right. Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV This legal challenge adds to other ongoing lawsuits against Paetongtarn, aimed at ending her tenure as prime minister due to alleged unlawful influence by her father, Thaksin. These multiple legal fronts pose a significant threat to her leadership and the stability of the Pheu Thai-led coalition government, reported Thai Newsroom. If the Constitutional Court finds Paetongtarn guilty, she faces impeachment and removal from office, which would jeopardise the Pheu Thai coalition’s hold on power. This developing situation is closely monitored, given its potential to alter the political landscape significantly. -- 2024-10-08

Down under or Thai? Aussie mum trades Oz for Land of Smiles by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Natalie Coulson What would you do if the dream of owning your home seemed to be slipping away? For one Aussie mum, the solution was packing up her family and heading for exotic shores, trading Oz for the Land of Smiles. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340127-down-under-or-thai-aussie-mum-trades-oz-for-land-of-smiles/

What would you do if the dream of owning your home seemed to be slipping away? For one Aussie mum, the solution was packing up her family and heading for exotic shores, trading Oz for the Land of Smiles. Natalie Coulson, a 45 year old mother of one, had enough of Sydney’s spiralling property market. The fear of a lifetime of renting and slogging away at a tedious 9-to-5 was more terrifying than the prospect of moving abroad. In a bold twist of fate, she and her family left their three-bedroom duplex in Manly and embarked on a daring adventure in Thailand. “It’s risky but living in Sydney was a bigger gamble.” The Coulson clan – Natalie, her 60 year old partner Fred, and their five year old son Alex, decided it was now or never. After 10 years of overseeing the Sydney seascape, they waved it goodbye, lured by the promise of palm trees and affordable mango sticky rice in Phuket. The family had been coughing up AU$1,295 (29,260 baht) weekly for rent alone and their aspirations of home ownership were growing increasingly out of reach. The solution? Relocation. An overseas property hunt beckoned, and Thailand’s sun-soaked beaches answered. Sipping coffee amidst the tropical breeze, Natalie revealed she had made the right choice. “Australia’s a nanny state now. Phuket feels more like the Australia I remember – the carefree 1980s but with modern conveniences.” Natalie Coulson and her partner Fred enjoying the best of Thailand In July, the family bade farewell to surf, sand, and Sydney. The irony? Joining the real estate market in Thailand was smoother than expected. The Coulsons now own a four-bedroom haven in an expat-friendly enclave, all for a cut-price AUD$1.2 million (27.1 million baht). Compare that to what they’d pay in Manly, and it’s an absolute steal. A kicker to the deal: in Thailand, you can buy a house, but leasing the land it stands on is the norm. “It might sound odd, but it’s how things work here.” While their Phuket dream home gets built, the family rents a luxurious three-bed pad with an overflow pool and panoramic vistas of the ocean for a breezy AUD$920 (21,000 baht) weekly. “It’s posh, yes, but we get far more bang for our buck than in Sydney.” The Thai lifestyle offers a new tapestry of experiences – think affordable markets, delicious street eats, and a pace of life that feels like a quaint country town. Artful and pragmatic, Natalie is juggling her Sydney-based marketing business and exploring possibilities left open by leaving her government contract behind. Meanwhile, Fred, previously a business analyst, is pivoting to a marketing guru role, taking advantage of new Asia-based ventures. “We’re making a go of it.” For the Coulsons, life in Phuket is liberating yet challenging. The language barrier poses occasional hurdles, though English’s prevalence offers a bubble-like respite at times. They diligently learn Thai – baby steps, as Natalie puts it – to forge genuine connections with locals. And what of the day-to-day? Groceries are now a fraction of Sydney’s price, with market-fresh produce dramatically reducing their weekly bill to around AUD$50 (1,132 baht). Casual dining out is a steal too – fantastic meals for mere dollars are a joy they’ve quickly embraced. Despite all the savings, one thing’s undeniable: the perks don’t just stop at a lower cost of living. Thai life offers tranquillity, a bonus respite from Sydney’s frantic rush. The Coulsons cherish the international school’s offerings for young Alex – an opportunity for him to thrive amidst vibrant ex-pat diversity. Still, the adventure isn’t without its hurdles. The absence of Sydney’s efficient public transport is felt as they navigate their new home by car. Visa renewals are another reality check but, undeterred, they’re in it for the long haul, said Natalie. “Thailand’s near enough that we can pop back to Oz whenever.” Natalie’s advice to other Aussies eyeing the possibility of an overseas leap? Do your research, explore your local options, and ensure that the call of foreign lands matches your lifestyle aspirations. After months of melty mango shakes and sun-soaked explorations, the Coulsons are certain: they’ve struck gold. Australia’s Hall of Shopping or late-night Sydney cinema treks might rankle as distant memories, but the promise of new culture, new beginnings, and new adventures prevails. For Natalie and her brood, it’s clear: Thailand’s not just a change of address – it’s a fresh start. Where others tighten their purses, fearful of the unfamiliar, the Coulsons have bravely embraced a life that looks like a perpetual holiday but means the world to them. Now, who said you can’t have your mango sticky rice and eat it too? by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Natalie Coulson Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-08

500 victims accuse social media influencer of 85 million baht gold scam by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ ตำรวจไซเบอร์ – บช.สอท. Over 500 victims filed a complaint against a social media influencer for operating a gold scam that caused losses exceeding 85 million baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340124-500-victims-accuse-social-media-influencer-of-85-million-baht-gold-scam/

Over 500 victims filed a complaint against a social media influencer for operating a gold scam that caused losses exceeding 85 million baht. Representatives of the victims, yesterday, October 7, visited the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau in Pak Kret district, Nonthaburi province, near Bangkok, to seek justice after social media influencer Promtada “Mae Bainard” Nakcharoen, the company director of Tada Gold store, was implicated. One of the victims, Maysa, told ThaiRath that she discovered Mae Bainard and his gold shop through livestream videos on the TikTok app. Mae Bainard frequently launched jaw-dropping promotions to attract attention from netizens, offering, for example, 1 gramme of gold for 1,500 baht, whereas the market price is nearly 3,000 baht. Mae Bainard repeatedly assured his followers and clients that he could obtain gold accessories at very low prices because he purchased them directly from a factory. However, he refused to disclose the name of the factory. Maysa and other victims revealed that, although they initially received real gold accessories, they later lost their money when they placed further orders. There was also a VIP group whose members purchased large amounts of gold, often totalling 500,000 baht or more each time. The victims stated that Mae Bainard cultivated an image of trustworthiness by inviting numerous Thai celebrities and influencers to his birthday party. Their relationships with these notable figures led the victims to believe he would not deceive them; unfortunately, this was not the case. Acting Commander of the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau, Jirawat Payungtham, reported that there are over 500 victims in this case, with losses exceeding 85 million baht. Of these, 240 victims have already lodged complaints with the police, while the remainder have yet to do so. The commander explained that Mae Bainard’s actions constitute violations of criminal laws, the Computer Act, and the Consumer Protection Act. The police will interview each victim before summoning the suspect for questioning. The victims confirmed that this case is not related to the previous gold scam, which led to the arrest of two suspects, Korakarn “Mae Tak” Suwannabut and Karnphon “Pa Beer” Rueng-aram. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ ตำรวจไซเบอร์ – บช.สอท. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-08

Pope Francis Expresses Condolences Over School Bus Fire in Thailand Pope Francis has issued a statement of condolence regarding the tragic school bus fire in Thailand, which claimed multiple lives. https://aseannow.com/topic/1340122-pope-francis-expresses-condolences-over-school-bus-fire-in-thailand/

Pope Francis has issued a statement of condolence regarding the tragic school bus fire in Thailand, which claimed multiple lives. The statement, signed by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican's Secretary of State, was published on October 5, 2024, on the website of the Holy See press office in Vatican City. It conveyed Pope Francis's sorrow over the school bus accident near Bangkok. Images courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-10-08

Chinese Fraudster Evading Arrest with Face-lift Nabbed in Bangkok Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In a dramatic turn of events, Bangkok authorities captured Jing Qu, a 30-year-old Chinese national wanted in her homeland for extensive fraud. Ms Jing's arrest this Monday follows a cunning attempt to evade justice through facial surgery. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340120-chinese-fraudster-evading-arrest-with-face-lift-nabbed-in-bangkok/