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Picture courtesy: Naew Na Two Swedish nationals have been apprehended in Pattaya, accused of call centre fraud defrauding victims of over 50 million baht and overstaying their visas. This arrest took place on 29th October, following a targeted raid by the Immigration Bureau 3 police. Acting on a tip-off, law enforcement officials located the individuals in Bang Lamung district, Chonburi, suspected of orchestrating a lucrative scam operation. The incident unfolded as officers, accompanied by senior police personnel, conducted surveillance outside a condominium in the Nong Prue subdistrict. They encountered a suspicious individual identified as Mr. John (assumed name), a 24-year-old Swedish man. Upon inspection of his travel documents, authorities discovered his visa had expired, prompting further investigation. This scrutiny led police to Mr. John's condominium unit, where his accomplice, 25-year-old Mr. Vladis (assumed name), also a Swedish national, was found. A check of his documents revealed he too had overstayed his visa. Both men were promptly taken into custody and transported to Pattaya police station for processing. The arrests have drawn attention due to the suspects' connections to high-level fraud in Sweden, where they allegedly operated an infamous call centre scam. Their criminal activities reportedly inflicted substantial financial losses, estimated at over 50 million baht. This case highlights ongoing international efforts to combat transnational crime networks, reflecting successful cooperation between Swedish and Thai authorities. As the investigation continues, authorities stress the importance of vigilance in identifying foreign nationals overstaying their visas, who may also be involved in criminal activities. The duo now faces a legal battle over their alleged crimes, entwining visa violations with their suspected fraud undertakingsm reported Thai Newsroom. Picture courtesy: Naew Na -- 2024-10-30

Thai Woman, 20, Sentenced to Life in Sweden for Murder Picture courtesy: Swedish Police Khwanchai Iamchaeng, a 20-year-old woman from Thailand, has been sentenced to life in prison in Sweden for the murder of a 17-year-old boy. The crime involved luring the victim to a tram stop under the guise of purchasing his headphones, only for him to be fatally shot. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342059-thai-woman-20-sentenced-to-life-in-sweden-for-murder/

Tak Bai Massacre Case Expired: Defendant Returns to Work File photo courtesy VOA A local official involved in the Tak Bai incident, Wissanu Loetsongkram, has resumed his duties after the case against him was closed due to the expiration of the statute of limitations. No defendant faced trial. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342046-tak-bai-massacre-case-expired-defendant-returns-to-work/

to continue: Thailand Live Wednesday 30 October 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1342056-thailand-live-wednesday-30-october-2024/

Thai police are digging deep into the puzzling death of a 46 year old Canadian man discovered by a group of his friends after five days of silence. The alarm was raised in a quiet corner of Moo 8, Srisoontorn, alerting Thalang police officers to the scene at around 12.35pm, yesterday, October 28. Unsolved mystery: Thai police dig into Canadian man’s death Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342037-unsolved-mystery-thai-police-dig-into-canadian-man’s-death/ Picture courtesy of Phuket Francophone

Thai Woman, 20, Sentenced to Life in Sweden for Murder Picture courtesy: Swedish Police Khwanchai Iamchaeng, a 20-year-old woman from Thailand, has been sentenced to life in prison in Sweden for the murder of a 17-year-old boy. The crime involved luring the victim to a tram stop under the guise of purchasing his headphones, only for him to be fatally shot. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342059-thai-woman-20-sentenced-to-life-in-sweden-for-murder/

Picture courtesy: Swedish Police Khwanchai Iamchaeng, a 20-year-old woman from Thailand, has been sentenced to life in prison in Sweden for the murder of a 17-year-old boy. The crime involved luring the victim to a tram stop under the guise of purchasing his headphones, only for him to be fatally shot. Despite initially being acquitted in district court due to lack of evidence, Iamchaeng's conviction was ultimately secured in the Göta Court of Appeal. This decision marks her as Sweden’s first female gang shooter to receive a life sentence, highlighting the severity with which the court regarded her involvement. The murder took place in Norrköping, a city currently entangled in gang conflicts. Iamchaeng was linked to the shooting despite limited direct evidence, as the court concluded that no reasonable alternative explanation for the murder existed. Ann Ganelind, the court's presiding judge, emphasised this point, stating that the close proximity at which the crime occurred left little doubt about Iamchaeng's involvement. The victim was reportedly listed on a "hit list" within the violent gang disputes in Norrköping, specifically between the Kalo network and another rival group from Marielund. This ongoing feud involves "enemy" lists that have resulted in multiple acts of violence. Originally from Gävle, Iamchaeng alleged she was coerced into various activities upon her arrival in Norrköping. She maintained that her intention was to buy headphones when the shooting incident transpired unexpectedly, leading her to flee. In addition to life imprisonment for murder, Iamchaeng has been convicted of attempted murder and serious weapons offences. Her case underscores the escalating gang violence in Sweden and the subsequent legal ramifications for those involved. The verdict serves as a significant development in addressing gang-related crimes within the country, reported Expressen, Sweden. -- 2024-10-29

Tak Bai Massacre Case Expired: Defendant Returns to Work File photo courtesy VOA A local official involved in the Tak Bai incident, Wissanu Loetsongkram, has resumed his duties after the case against him was closed due to the expiration of the statute of limitations. No defendant faced trial. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342046-tak-bai-massacre-case-expired-defendant-returns-to-work/

File photo courtesy: VOA A local official involved in the Tak Bai incident, Wissanu Loetsongkram, has resumed his duties after the case against him was closed due to the expiration of the statute of limitations. No defendant faced trial. Wissanu returned to his role as the district assistant chief at Tha Uthen district office in Nakhon Phanom province, announced on Tuesday by the Public Relations Office. The tragic events of October 25, 2004, resulted in the deaths of 85 demonstrators. The statute of limitations, lasting 20 years, elapsed at 11:59 pm on Friday, prompting the Provincial Court in Narathiwat province to declare the case closed on Monday. Wissanu was among eight defendants in the second group implicated in the incident. Despite state prosecutors deciding to bring charges against them in the Pattani Provincial Court as of September, none of the defendants were apprehended or appeared in court. According to prosecutors, Wissanu drove one of the military trucks transporting detained protesters from the rally at Tak Bai police station to Ingkayutthaboriharn army fort in Nong Chik district, Pattani, about 150 kilometres away. They were reportedly stacked in the back of the vehicles, which led to 78 deaths by suffocation. Wissanu, who had been on sick leave since October 15, returned to work under District Chief Preecha Sa-ingthong. He maintained that his role was merely to drive, deflecting responsibility for the deaths, as reported by the Government Public Relations Office. Initial reports indicated he served in the 5th Infantry Division in 2004, though his exact rank at the time wasn't specified. His district, Tha Uthen, lies along the Mekong River, sharing a border with Khammouane province in Laos, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-10-29

Pakistani vendors in Pattaya attack tourist for refusing their products by Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 3 Pakistani vendors at Pattaya Night Bazaar brutally attacked a fellow countryman last night, leaving him unconscious after he refused to buy their herbal products. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342007-pakistani-vendors-in-pattaya-attack-tourist-for-refusing-their-products/

Pakistani vendors at Pattaya Night Bazaar brutally attacked a fellow countryman last night, leaving him unconscious after he refused to buy their herbal products. A Thai witness, Mit, and his friend shared a video of the unconscious Pakistani victim, Muhammad Abdullah, yesterday, October 28, on social media to seek justice for him. The video showed Abdullah lying on the ground outside a shop named Arab Natural Herbal, owned by Pakistani men. Channel 3 reported that the shop sells herbal hair care products, weight loss products, skincare items, and remedies for muscle pain. Mit informed the media that he spoke with the Pakistani victim once he regained consciousness. Abdullah explained that the shop’s workers attempted to sell him their products but he declined to buy them. The vendors persisted, which prompted Abdullah to record a video of their behaviour. This act angered the vendors, leading them to gang up and assault Abdullah until he passed out. Mit revealed that similar incidents occurred multiple times before, particularly involving foreign tourists from Arab countries who refused to buy herbal products. A resident, Man, told Channel 3 that the Pakistani vendors assaulted visitors who rejected their products on numerous occasions. In addition to standing outside the shop and offering products, the group reportedly went to various beaches to market their goods. Abdullah reportedly filed a complaint against the attackers at Mueang Pattaya Police Station but the police have not yet apprehended the relevant suspects. The shop has remained closed since the incident. Officers from Mueang Pattaya Tourist Police revealed that multiple Pakistani vendors had been previously arrested for offering overpriced herbal products to other foreigners. Despite these arrests, the vendors continue to repeat their criminal actions. In a related report, police raided three herbal product stores in Pattaya, owned by foreign nationals, in August for selling overpriced products and making exaggerated claims about their benefits. Five foreigners were arrested during the raid. Four of them allegedly persuaded tourists to purchase substandard products, while another was found working without a permit. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 3 Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-29

Thailand weather: Cooler north, rain in central and southern regions by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Thailand sees a shift in weather patterns, experiencing a noticeable drop in temperatures in the northern and northeastern regions, while the central and eastern parts continue to see scattered rain. The southern region faces strong winds and heavy downpours. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342006-thailand-weather-cooler-north-rain-in-central-and-southern-regions/

Thailand sees a shift in weather patterns, experiencing a noticeable drop in temperatures in the northern and northeastern regions, while the central and eastern parts continue to see scattered rain. The southern region faces strong winds and heavy downpours. The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) forecasts weather conditions for the next 24 hours, predicting cool mornings in the upper northern and northeastern regions. However, thunderstorms are expected in some areas, particularly in the eastern part of the northeastern region, the lower central region, and the east. This weather pattern is influenced by a high-pressure system or cold air mass covering the upper northern and northeastern regions. Additionally, a strong low-pressure area is situated along the central coast of Vietnam. The Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand will experience moderate sea conditions. Waves in the lower Andaman Sea are expected to reach about 2 metres, while waves in the upper Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand will be between 1 and 2 metres high. In areas with thunderstorms, waves could exceed 2 metres. Mariners in these regions are advised to navigate carefully and avoid sailing in stormy areas. In the northern region, residents can expect cool mornings with a 10% chance of rain, mostly in Mae Hong Son, Tak, Phitsanulok, and Phetchabun provinces. Temperatures will range from 20 to 26 degrees Celsius (°C) in the morning to 32 to 36°C in the afternoon. Northeasterly winds are expected at speeds of 10 to 20 kilometres per hour (km/h). in the northeastern region, cool mornings with a 20% chance of thunderstorms are to be expected, mainly in Nakhon Ratchasima, Nakhon Phanom, Sakon Nakhon, Mukdahan, Amnat Charoen, and Ubon Ratchathani provinces. Temperatures will range from 19 to 23°C in the morning to 30 to 34°C in the afternoon. Northeasterly winds will blow at speeds of 10 to 30 km/h. Cooler mornings In the central region, thunderstorms are expected in 20% of the area, particularly in Kanchanaburi, Nakhon Pathom, Ratchaburi, Samut Songkhram, and Samut Sakhon provinces. Morning temperatures will be between 23 and 25°C, rising to 33 to 36°C in the afternoon. Easterly winds will blow at 10 to 25 km/h. In the eastern region, thunderstorms in 30% of the area, mainly in Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat provinces. Morning temperatures will range from 23 to 26°C, and afternoon temperatures will be between 32 and 34°C. Northeasterly winds will blow at 15 to 30 km/h. Waves in the sea will be about 1 metre high but could exceed 2 metres in stormy areas. In the southern region (east coast), thunderstorms are expected in 60% of the area with heavy rainfall in some places, mainly in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Songkhla, Yala, and Narathiwat provinces. Morning temperatures will be between 23 and 26°C, and afternoon temperatures will be between 33 and 34°C. Northwesterly winds will blow at 15 to 35 km/h. Waves in the sea will be about 1 metre high, reaching 1 to 2 metres offshore, and over 2 metres in stormy areas. In the southern region (west coast), thunderstorms cover 60% of the area with heavy rainfall in some places, mainly in Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, Krabi, Trang, and Satun provinces. Morning temperatures will be between 23 and 26°C, and afternoon temperatures will be between 30 and 33°C. Northwesterly winds will blow at 8 to 18 knots or 15 to 35 km/h. Waves in the sea will be 1 to 2 metres high and over 2 metres in stormy areas. In Bangkok and surrounding areas, thunderstorms are expected in 30% of the area. Morning temperatures will be between 26 and 27°C, rising to 33 to 35°C in the afternoon. Easterly winds will blow at 10 to 25 km/h. by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-29

Thai-panic: AirAsia flight defies disaster over denied landing in India by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of AirAsia A Thai AirAsia flight found itself in a death-defying situation straight out of a Hollywood blockbuster when it was denied permission to land at an airport in India. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342001-thai-panic-airasia-flight-defies-disaster-over-denied-landing-in-india/

A Thai AirAsia flight found itself in a death-defying situation straight out of a Hollywood blockbuster when it was denied permission to land at an airport in India. Passengers were left fearing for their lives as the aircraft was forced to circle for a staggering 45 minutes with only 30 minutes of fuel remaining in the tank. The drama unfolded as the Airbus A320, captained by Mathawat Aphiratnathapong, eventually received clearance to land but was then detained for four hours at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, Nepal, after arriving without the necessary clearance. It was only released on Sunday, October 27, after the pilot issued a formal apology. The flight finally took off for Bangkok at 6.57pm. TIA General Manager Jagannath Niraula explained that the pilot claimed the flight had been arranged by Nepalese agent Universal Tours and Travels, which insisted all required clearances were in place. Following the pilot’s written apology, TIA granted the release. Prior to the chaotic landing, the plane was instructed to hold at 14,000 feet above Simara. With fuel running dangerously low, the captain desperately sought permission to land, which was ultimately granted. The flight, carrying 176 passengers to Kathmandu, was scheduled to return with 160 travellers to Bangkok. According to sources within the tourism ministry, Universal Tours and Travels, run by Parashar Prasai, had previously organised Thai AirAsia flights with conditional approval to land in Bhairahawa from October 2. This authorisation hinged on settling a 270 million rupee (113 million baht) debt owed by AirAsia dating back to before the pandemic. Prasai had provided a bank guarantee to clear the arrears, resulting in a conditional permit for flights to Kathmandu, with plans to shift services to Bhairahawa after a feasibility assessment. Gyanendra Bhul, Deputy Spokesperson for the Civil Aviation Authority, clarified that the airline was lacking clearance under the winter schedule, which started on Sunday and had only been authorised for Kathmandu flights from October 2 to 27. Nepal’s flight schedules are revised seasonally: the winter timetable runs from the last Sunday of October to the last Sunday of March, while summer flights span from late March to late October. Efforts to contact Universal’s director, Prasai, for a comment were unsuccessful, as he did not respond to messages, The Kathmandu Post reported. by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of AirAsia Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-29

Thai Government Strengthens Laws on Pyramid Schemes Picture courtesy: Thai Rath The Thai government is poised to make significant amendments to existing laws targeting pyramid-fund schemes. These changes aim to broaden enforcement scope to take action against not just the masterminds but also the lower-level operatives involved in these fraudulent activities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341993-thai-government-strengthens-laws-on-pyramid-schemes/

The Thai government is poised to make significant amendments to existing laws targeting pyramid-fund schemes. These changes aim to broaden enforcement scope to take action against not just the masterminds but also the lower-level operatives involved in these fraudulent activities. Thailand's Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat outlined these forthcoming amendments, which will enhance the authority's ability to tackle pyramid schemes more effectively. Currently, the law restricts action to top-level figures, allowing lower-level fraudsters to evade prosecution. The amendments will also see the Finance Ministry handing over enforcement responsibilities to the Justice Ministry. Julapun cited that the Justice Ministry is better equipped with the necessary tools for taking timely action against offenders, unlike the policy-oriented Finance Ministry. Further, the revised laws will introduce mechanisms to proactively warn both government bodies and the public about potential pyramid schemes before they inflict harm. This follows the recent controversy involving The iCon Group, accused of operating as a pyramid scheme under the guise of a multi-level marketing (MLM) business. Over 9,000 complaints have been filed against the group, with alleged damages reaching 2.916 billion baht. Law enforcement has already arrested 18 executives from the group. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has tasked Julapun with revamping the current law to close existing loopholes and better protect society from fraudulent schemes. The first piece of legislation up for revision is the "Emergency Decree on Borrowings Regarded as Public Cheating and Fraud, B.E. 2527". Enacted 40 years ago amid the Mae Chamoy pyramid fund scheme scandal, this law has remained unchanged, failing to adapt to new technological tricks employed by modern fraudsters, reported The Nation. Additionally, three other laws requiring revision are the Act on Direct Sales and Direct Marketing of 2002, the Computer Crime Act of 2017, and the Anti-Money Laundering Act of 1999. These changes aim to align the legal framework with contemporary technological developments, ensuring it remains robust enough to combat emerging pyramid scheme models effectively. TOP: Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-10-29

Govt Set to Review Drone Regulation Amid Agricultural Push File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Today, the government has announced plans to review and potentially revise the current regulations surrounding the use of drones, particularly focusing on enhancing access for farmers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341991-govt-set-to-review-drone-regulation-amid-agricultural-push/

File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Today, the government has announced plans to review and potentially revise the current regulations surrounding the use of drones, particularly focusing on enhancing access for farmers. During a Senate meeting on Monday, Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister and Digital Economy and Society Minister, Prasert Jantararuangtong, highlighted the potential benefits drones could bring to the agricultural sector, as well as areas like disaster mitigation and logistics. Drones, or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), are valued by the government as a powerful tool for monitoring natural disasters and managing the country’s vast expanses of arable land. Presently, over 500 drones are deployed, overseeing four million rai of land nationwide, providing indispensable data for diverse applications including emergency response and weather forecasting. Minister Prasert assured the government's commitment to supporting Thai drone manufacturers. He emphasised reliance on locally-developed drones to bolster national security. Moreover, the ministry has proposed standard pricing and minimum quality benchmarks for drones used by government entities. Efforts are also underway to establish drone repair centres and launch drone flight training in agricultural zones. While central funding for drones is not directly provided to local agencies, Minister Prasert mentioned that agencies are encouraged to allocate their own budgets for drone procurement. He also recognised the necessity to amend existing regulations to ease public ownership and usage of drones legally, following concerns raised by Senator Premsak Piayura. Acknowledging these concerns, Minister Prasert pledged to evaluate the current rules with an aim to streamline the permit process, particularly to benefit the farming community. The prospect of facilitating farmer access to drone technology is seen as a significant step towards modernising agricultural practices and enhancing productivity across the nation, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-10-29

Thailand Targets 1M Flights in 2025 as Aviation Hub Revitalises File photo courtesy: Wikipedia The Thai government has unveiled a bold initiative to manage a million flights nationally next year, following the recent inauguration of Suvarnabhumi Airport's third runway earlier this month. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341990-thailand-targets-1m-flights-in-2025-as-aviation-hub-revitalises/

The Thai government has unveiled a bold initiative to manage a million flights nationally next year, following the recent inauguration of Suvarnabhumi Airport's third runway earlier this month. This ambitious target is a significant milestone in efforts to position Thailand as a principal aviation hub in the region, consequently driving up tourism and fuelling economic growth. Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri, speaking after the runway's debut on 3rd October, outlined the plan. Minister Manaporn highlighted that during the 2024 fiscal year, Thailand witnessed a total of 836,513 flights, marking a substantial 16% increase from the previous year. Suvarnabhumi Airport, the country's central international gateway, saw 348,980 of these flights, translating to an impressive daily average of 950 flights. This pace is edging closer to pre-pandemic levels, with expectations for continued growth. For the fiscal year 2025, the target is firmly set on accommodating one million flights. Aeronautical Radio of Thailand (Aerothai) affirmed its readiness to support this surge through the newly operational runway. Nopasit Chakpitak, Aerothai president, remarked that extensive preparations have spanned over five years, including the development of operational concepts, environmental impact assessments, air traffic control (ATC) protocols, and comprehensive staff training. Apart from these, upgrades have included the installation of advanced air navigation systems and the enhancement of air traffic management frameworks. Nopasit noted that the new runway elevates Suvarnabhumi's capacity from handling 68 to 94 flights per hour. The concurrent operation of takeoffs and landings has optimised runway efficiency, reducing both taxi distances and wait times—streamlining air traffic flow significantly, reported Bangkok Post. TOP: File photo courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-10-29

Thai Authorities Crack Down on Unauthorised Foreign Workers in Bangkok Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Under the government’s tourism support policy, Minister of Tourism and Sports, Sarawut Thienthong, instructed the Tourist Police Division to boost safety measures and instill confidence among visitors. In response, Police General Kittirat Phanpet, the National Police Chief, ordered heightened safety and security protocols for the high season. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341987-thai-authorities-crack-down-on-unauthorised-foreign-workers-in-bangkok/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Under the government’s tourism support policy, Minister of Tourism and Sports, Sarawut Thienthong, instructed the Tourist Police Division to boost safety measures and instill confidence among visitors. In response, Police General Kittirat Phanpet, the National Police Chief, ordered heightened safety and security protocols for the high season. Tourist Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sak Sira Pueakum, alongside Deputy Commissioner Police Major General Pongsayam Meekhuntong, led an operation targeting illegal foreign labour in tourism-related areas. The effort focused on criminal activities impacting the broader tourism industry. Police Colonel Songwut Cheuplakit, Head of the Tourist Police Investigation Unit, joined forces with Immigration Division 1 officers for a sweep in the Tiam Ruam Mitr area of Huai Khwang, where they uncovered several foreign nationals working illegally under the Alien Employment Management Act. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Five individuals were detained and charged: 1. Ms. Tata Oo, 30, Myanmar nationality – charged with working without a permit and unauthorized residence. 2. Mr. Aike Tun, 27, Myanmar nationality – charged with working without a permit and overstaying by 213 days. 3. Ms. Moe Moe Khaing, 25, Myanmar nationality. 4. Ms. Nang San Mo, 27, Myanmar nationality. 5. Ms. Khiang Khiang Nyein, 23, Myanmar nationality – charged with working without a permit. All suspects have been transferred to Huai Khwang Police Station for further legal proceedings. This operation underscores Thailand’s commitment to ensuring a safe and legal work environment within the tourism sector, reported Siam Rath. -- 2024-10-29

Image: ASEAN NOW Thai airports announced plans to introduce a facial recognition system by the end of the year, effectively phasing out the need for traditional boarding passes. This cutting-edge technology will be implemented in six major airports, aiming to streamline passenger movement and enhance security processes. From 1st November, domestic travellers in Thailand will experience this new system, with international passengers following on 1st December. Passengers will register their identification details during check-in, either at a staffed counter or using a self-service kiosk. Upon registration, their biometric data will be linked with their travel itineraries, enabling them to navigate seamlessly from baggage drop-off to boarding gate. Each registration will apply solely to the passenger's current travel itinerary. The six key airports set to adopt this system are: Suvarnabhumi International Airport Don Mueang International Airport Chiang Mai International Airport Mae Fah Luang/Chiang Rai International Airport Phuket International Airport Hat Yai International Airport Kirati Kitmanawat, Director of the Airports Authority of Thailand, highlighted the potential benefits of this system amidst rising passenger numbers. He reported nearly a 20% increase in airport users in September and October compared to last year, with expectations for further growth in the coming year. The biometric system is designed not only to meet heightened security demands but also to enhance passenger convenience during their journey. This venture aligns with global trends towards digital solutions in travel, aiming to make procedures more efficient while maintaining rigorous security standards. As these airports gear up for implementation, travellers can expect a technologically advanced and smoother travel experience in Thailand. The initiative promises to set a new standard in airport technology, potentially serving as a model for other airports globally, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-10-29

In a surprising announcement, Michelin-star chef Jay Fai, known for her emblematic restaurant in Bangkok, revealed her plans to retire next year. The renowned chef, whose real name is Supinya Junsuta, first earned her Michelin star in 2018, making her beloved venue famous worldwide for its exceptional street-food-inspired dishes. Running her eponymous restaurant has become increasingly challenging for the 77-year-old chef. Maintaining high standards requires meticulous attention to detail, especially when sourcing top-quality ingredients. Jay Fai starts her day at 7 a.m. to personally inspect ingredients, promptly rejecting any that do not meet her strict expectations. Despite her global fame and continuous Michelin success over seven years, Jay Fai does not intend for her daughter, Yuwadee Junsuta, to take over the business. Instead, she is open to sharing her recipes with those willing to learn. The potential closure of Jay Fai's restaurant has already drawn attention from Tourism Authority of Thailand Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool. "If Jay Fai is really retiring, it’s a great pity," Thapanee commented. "Her restaurant is famous at home and abroad, serving as a form of soft power to promote tourism. Her decision is understandable given her age and the immense responsibility to uphold Michelin standards." Jay Fai's dishes, particularly her crispy crab omelettes and stir-fried noodles with seafood, have made her a culinary icon. As she prepares to bid farewell to her career, food enthusiasts worldwide regret the impending loss of her celebrated cooking but appreciate the legacy she leaves behind, reported Thai Newsroom. Picture courtesy: Facebook หม่องม่วน -- 2024-10-29