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The Ministry of Interior of Thailand has issued four major announcements on new visa measures since July 15, 2024. These measures are intended to enhance the tourism industry, attract foreign investment, and bolster local businesses and communities. New Visa Categories and Extensions: 1. Destination Thailand Visa (DTV): Designed for digital nomads, remote workers, freelancers, and those interested in Thai cultural activities. It is valid for five years and allows multiple entries, with each stay up to 180 days. This visa can be renewed for an additional 180 days within Thailand. Spouses and children under 20 years old can also apply for dependent DTV visas. 2. Extended Visa-Free Period: Visitors from 93 nationalities now enjoy an extended visa-free stay from 30 to 60 days, encouraging longer tourist and short-term business visits. 3. Expanded Visa on Arrival: Additional nationalities are eligible for visas on arrival, increasing the total to 31 nationalities. 4. New Student Visa (ED-Plus): Aimed at undergraduate and higher-level students, this visa allows them to stay and seek employment in Thailand post-graduation. Work and Legal Considerations: The DTV visa is a significant step forward for digital nomads and remote workers. However, foreigners must adhere to the Foreigner's Working Management Law. The law defines 'work' as any occupation, regardless of employer nationality. Therefore, activities potentially affecting Thai job markets may require a work permit, even if the work is for an overseas employer. Clear guidelines from the Department of Employment (DOE) are anticipated to ensure compliance and build confidence among foreign workers. Short-Term Business Activities: With the visa-free period extended to 60 days, short-term business travelers must carefully evaluate their activities to ensure they do not constitute 'work' under the law. Specific activities may require regular or urgent work permits, initially valid for 15 days and extendable for another 15 days. Activities considered urgent or specific work include organizing conferences, conducting academic lectures, temporary internal audits, quality inspections, and machinery installation. These measures ensure that while foreigners can take advantage of Thailand’s extended visa privileges, they comply with local employment laws. This ensures legal security and protects Thai citizen jobs. These comprehensive visa updates mark Thailand's steps to attract foreign talent and investment, enhancing its international appeal and economic growth while maintaining a regulated work environment, reported The Nation. Picture courtesy: Daily Post -- 2024-09-16

to continue: Thailand Live Monday 16 September 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1338271-thailand-live-monday-16-september-2024/

Cannabis Warehouse Fire Causes Over 3 Million Baht in Damages A fire broke out at a cannabis cultivation warehouse, resulting in damages exceeding 3 million, in Phuket, with the initial investigation pointing to an electrical short circuit as the likely cause. Full story : https://aseannow.com/topic/1338224-cannabis-warehouse-fire-causes-over-3-million-baht-in-damages/

Group Attacks Pattaya Bar Worker After Luring Her to Meeting Picture courtesy: Daily News A Pattaya bar worker, Ms. Paphasara, was attacked by a group of people after attempting to peacefully resolve a conflict with someone she didn't know. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338230-group-attacks-pattaya-bar-worker-after-luring-her-to-meeting/

Tourist Police, led by Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira Phueak-aom, have apprehended two Russian nationals on Koh Phangan for illegal employment practices. This action underscores the authorities' commitment to addressing unlawful foreign labour as the tourist season approaches. Illegal Work: Russian Employer and Russian Electrician Arrested Picture courtesy: pheupuangchon Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338263-illegal-work-russian-employer-and-russian-electrician-arrested/

Illegal Work: Russian Employer and Russian Electrician Arrested Picture courtesy: pheupuangchon Tourist Police, led by Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira Phueak-aom, have apprehended two Russian nationals on Koh Phangan for illegal employment practices. This action underscores the authorities' commitment to addressing unlawful foreign labour as the tourist season approaches. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338263-illegal-work-russian-employer-and-russian-electrician-arrested/

Tourist Police, led by Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira Phueak-aom, have apprehended two Russian nationals on Koh Phangan for illegal employment practices. This action underscores the authorities' commitment to addressing unlawful foreign labour as the tourist season approaches. The arrests were made on September 13, 2024, at Café 13 in Village 1, Koh Phangan Subdistrict, Koh Phangan District, Surat Thani Province. 1. Mr. Anatolii F., 40, was arrested for employing a foreigner without the necessary work permit. 2. Mr. Evgenii M., 35, an electrician, was caught with various tools, including a wire cutter, VAF 2×2.5 electrical wire, an electric drill, pliers, and a screwdriver, and was charged with working without a valid permit. Picture courtesy: pheupuangchon Mr. Anatolii admitted to hiring Mr. Evgenii due to the latter's financial difficulties. Mr. Evgenii arrived on Koh Phangan for a holiday and spent his money on food and leisure activities. Desperate for funds, he approached Mr. Anatolii at Café 13 for work in exchange for money and food. Mr. Anatolii agreed, providing Mr. Evgenii with daily compensation. The arrests were a coordinated effort by the Tourist Police Division 5, Sub-Division 2, Division 3, the Koh Phangan district chief, and the local police. Both individuals were transported to Koh Phangan Police Station for further legal proceedings. Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira Phueak-aom has directed tourist police in key destinations to heighten efforts against criminal activities by foreign nationals. The objective is to uphold the law stringently and enhance the safety and confidence of tourists, especially during the high season. This initiative aims to preserve Thailand's reputation as a safe and welcoming destination. This incident highlights the importance of adhering to local laws and regulations for foreign nationals working or seeking employment in the country. The Tourist Police remain vigilant in their efforts to ensure legal compliance and maintain public order. TOP Picture courtesy: pheupuangchon -- 2024-09-15

Bar worker assaulted by strangers for no reason in Pattaya By Pattaya Mail Ms. Paphassara, a 20-year-old bar worker, recounts the unprovoked attack by a group of strangers outside a hotel in central Pattaya. PATTAYA, Thailand – A 20-year-old bar worker, Ms. Paphassara P, was the victim of an unprovoked assault outside a hotel in central Pattaya in the early hours of September 12. Ms. Paphassara reported to police that the confrontation began when one of the assailants contacted her through a mutual friend on Facebook, stating that they “didn’t like her” and wanted to meet. In an attempt to resolve the matter peacefully, she agreed to meet the individual outside her hotel. Upon arriving, however, she was confronted by six people—three men and three women—who made it clear that there was no specific issue. They said they simply wanted to attack her. Without provocation, the group began to assault Ms. Paphassara, leaving her injured. The attack only ended when tourists and a hotel security guard intervened, preventing further harm. Full story: Pattaya Mail -- 2024-09-15

Group Attacks Pattaya Bar Worker After Luring Her to Meeting Picture courtesy: Daily News A Pattaya bar worker, Ms. Paphasara, was attacked by a group of people after attempting to peacefully resolve a conflict with someone she didn't know. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338230-group-attacks-pattaya-bar-worker-after-luring-her-to-meeting/

A Pattaya bar worker, Ms. Paphasara, was attacked by a group of people after attempting to peacefully resolve a conflict with someone she didn't know. On the night of September 12, she was assaulted outside a hotel in Central Pattaya, Nongprue Subdistrict, Banglamung District, Chon Buri Province. The attackers openly admitted they "just wanted to slap her." Ms. Paphasara, who is 20 years old, reported the incident to the police and provided CCTV footage as evidence. According to Ms. Paphasara, the assailant had sent a message through a mutual friend's Facebook account, expressing a desire to slap her simply because they didn't like her. To avoid any trouble, she reached out to them and arranged a meeting to clear things up. However, when she arrived at the location, she was confronted by three women and three men, reported Daily News. When she asked why they had an issue, they replied indifferently that there was no specific reason, they just wanted to slap her. The group then attacked her until she was injured, but tourists and security guards intervened, stopping the assault. Ms. Paphasara filed a complaint with the Pattaya City Police and handed over CCTV footage that clearly captured the attack and the identities of the attackers. She expressed disbelief that such violence could occur in Pattaya and urged the police to pursue the attackers and bring them to justice through legal means. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-09-15

Chonburi Police Arrest over 20 Indians in Call Center Scam Raid Picture courtesy: 4forcenews Police in Chonburi, in collaboration with Chonburi Immigration, have arrested over 20 Indian nationals suspected of running a call center scam targeting fellow Indians. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338223-chonburi-police-arrest-over-20-indians-in-call-center-scam-raid/

Police in Chonburi, in collaboration with Chonburi Immigration, have arrested over 20 Indian nationals suspected of running a call center scam targeting fellow Indians. On September 13, 2024, Pol. Col. Phasakorn Paichit reported that Pol. Col. Wattanachai Saengrit led a team from the Chonburi Police and Immigration units to execute a search warrant at a house in Najomtien, Sattahip District. They had received information that several Indian nationals were suspected of illegal activities. Picture courtesy: Naew Na During the search, officers found Mr. Morvadiya, a 20-year-old Indian national, who identified himself as the owner of the house. In addition, 23 other Indian men were present. The authorities also confiscated over 20 computers. All of the Indian nationals were taken to Najomtien Police Station for questioning regarding their involvement with the call center scam. Further investigation revealed that 12 of the Indian nationals were residing in Thailand illegally. They were charged with unlawful entry and remaining in the Kingdom without permission. Picture courtesy: 4forcenews The other 12 were charged with failing to report a change of residence to the authorities within 24 hours, as required for temporary stays. Legal action will be taken against them accordingly. The confiscated computers will also be examined to determine if they were used in the call center scam or other fraudulent activities, with further legal action to follow if necessary. TOP Picture courtesy: 4forcenews -- 2024-09-15

UPDATE: Mekong floods: Nong Khai residents urged to move belongings by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Residents of Nong Khai have been advised to move their belongings to higher ground as the Mekong River’s water level is expected to peak by tomorrow due to ongoing flooding. The flood situation in Nong Khai province remains concerning as the Mekong River continues to rise steadily. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338109-mekong-river-flooding-forces-evacuations-in-nong-khai/?do=findComment&comment=19231562

Mekong floods: Nong Khai residents urged to move belongings by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Residents of Nong Khai have been advised to move their belongings to higher ground as the Mekong River’s water level is expected to peak by tomorrow due to ongoing flooding. The flood situation in Nong Khai province remains concerning as the Mekong River continues to rise steadily. The water level at the Nong Khai Hydrology Station was recorded at 13.46 metres at 8pm yesterday, increasing by 2 to 4 centimetres per hour. The strong current has led to flooding in several areas, affecting six districts along the river: Sangkhom, Si Chiang Mai, Tha Bo, Mueang Nong Khai, Phon Phisai, and Rattanawapi. Many villages, especially those along the riverbanks, are already experiencing floods with water levels exceeding 1 metre. The National Disaster Warning Foundation’s Facebook page issued a warning yesterday, September 13, to Nong Khai residents to urgently move their belongings to higher ground as the Mekong River is projected to reach its highest level tomorrow, September 15. “Please share this information with Nong Khai residents to move their belongings to higher ground. The Mekong River’s highest level is expected to come earlier and higher on September 15. The water level will be approximately 0.6 metres higher than today, leading to a broader area of flooding as illustrated in the attached image. The water level is anticipated to start receding from September 16 onwards, decreasing by about 20 to 25 centimetres daily.” The warning comes as floodwaters have already infiltrated numerous areas, causing significant disruptions. The rapid rise of the Mekong River poses a serious threat to the local communities and their properties. Officials and residents are working together to mitigate the damage and ensure safety. Local officials emphasised the importance of taking immediate action to protect lives and property. The relentless increase in water levels has compelled many to evacuate their homes, seeking refuge in safer areas. Emergency response teams are on high alert, ready to assist those in need and provide necessary resources, reported KhaoSod. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-14 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Bhumjaithai Party Opposes Casinos in Entertainment Complexes Picture courtesy: Wikimedia.org In a notable stance, the Bhumjaithai Party has declared its opposition to including casinos in Thailand’s future entertainment complexes. This announcement came at the end of a two-day parliamentary debate on the Pheu Thai-led coalition government’s policy statement, delivered by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338154-bhumjaithai-party-opposes-casinos-in-entertainment-complexes/

In a notable stance, the Bhumjaithai Party has declared its opposition to including casinos in Thailand’s future entertainment complexes. This announcement came at the end of a two-day parliamentary debate on the Pheu Thai-led coalition government’s policy statement, delivered by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Mr. Chaichanok Chidchob, the party’s secretary general and son of Bhumjaithai’s de facto leader Newin Chidchob, articulated the party’s position. While Bhumjaithai supports the development of mega entertainment complexes to boost tourism, they firmly reject the presence of casinos within these ventures. Their primary concern is ensuring that the benefits from these projects are equally distributed among Thai citizens. As the second largest partner in the coalition government, Bhumjaithai also highlighted their stance on tackling the underground lottery operations. They advocate for a system where the benefits would serve the nation and its people, rather than being monopolised by specific groups, whether domestic or foreign. The party insists on fairness and appropriate regulatory methods to manage these gambling activities. Chaichanok acknowledged the complexity and duration required to implement many of the policies discussed. He noted that while some initiatives might be accomplished within the current term, others could span several terms. Additionally, Chaichanok addressed the challenges the public faces in generating income, particularly through the sale of electricity back to utilities, reported Thai Newsroom. Currently, householders with rooftop solar panels can sell excess electricity on a net billing basis at 2.20 baht per unit, which is lower than the rates utilities charge their customers. The Bhumjaithai Party supports the introduction of a net metering scheme, which would allow for the sale of electricity at the same rate utilities charge, thereby providing fairer opportunities for citizens. The party's announcement has sparked considerable discussion, underscoring the complexities and varied opinions surrounding Thailand’s developmental policies. Picture courtesy: Wikimedia.org -- 2024-09-14 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Excise Dept. on track to meet revenue collection target of 520 billion baht Picture courtesy: NNT The Excise Department of Thailand is on track to meet its revenue collection target of 520 billion baht for the 2024 fiscal year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338153-excise-dept-on-track-to-meet-revenue-collection-target-of-520-billion-baht/

The Excise Department of Thailand is on track to meet its revenue collection target of 520 billion baht for the 2024 fiscal year. Director-General Ekniti Nitithanprapas announced that in the first 11 months of the fiscal year, the department had already collected over 480 billion baht, representing a 10.6% increase compared to the previous year. This achievement comes despite moderate economic growth of 2.5%, exceeding expectations. The department’s success in reaching its target is particularly notable given the challenges posed by government tax relief measures, including reductions in diesel and gasoline taxes and incentives for electric vehicles (EVs). Looking ahead to 2025 fiscal year, Ekniti acknowledged that the shift from internal combustion vehicles to EVs will present new challenges, as vehicle taxes are the department’s second-largest revenue source after oil taxes. In line with government strategies to position Thailand as a hub for right-hand drive vehicle production, Ekniti noted that several leading automakers are showing interest in investing in the country. This is expected to contribute to future revenue growth. Additionally, the Excise Department has intensified enforcement efforts, resulting in over 31,000 prosecutions for tax-related violations, a 27% increase from last year. The department is also modernizing its services, integrating digital technologies, and preparing to launch a new AI-powered website next week to enhance services for business operators. For more information, the Excise Department can be reached via its call center or through the new website, which will be operational soon. Picture courtesy: NNT Source: NNT -- 2024-09-14 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Top 10 provinces for second-hand property sales identifie The Real Estate Information Center (REIC) of Thailand's Government Housing Bank has compiled data on second-hand properties across Thailand from various private sector websites. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338151-bangkok-leads-in-second-hand-property-listings/

Picture courtesy: NNT The Real Estate Information Center (REIC) of Thailand's Government Housing Bank has compiled data on second-hand properties across Thailand from various private sector websites. The data includes properties listed by financial institutions, public and private asset management companies, and the Legal Execution Department through platforms like the Second-Hand Home Market website. The REIC reported that in the second quarter of 2024, a total of 140,725 second-hand property units, valued at 718.436 billion baht, were listed for sale. The most common property type was single-family houses, accounting for 39.6%, followed by townhouses at 29.4%, condominiums at 25.6%, commercial buildings at 3.8%, and semi-detached houses at 1.6%. Properties priced under 1 million baht were the most frequently listed, representing 21.1% of total listings. However, only 4% of listings were priced between 7.51 million and 10 million baht. In terms of location, Bangkok led the market with nearly 42,400 properties listed, most priced above 10 million baht. Nonthaburi followed with 10,900 units, primarily priced between 3.01 and 5 million baht. Chonburi came next with about 9,200 units, similarly priced between 3.01 and 5 million baht. Samut Prakan had 9,600 units available, while Pathum Thani offered 10,250 units. Chiang Mai listed 4,500 units, and Phuket had 1,800 units for sale. Nakhon Ratchasima followed with more than 2,700 units, Rayong had 4,000 units, and Nakhon Pathom rounded out the top ten with 2,300 units, valued at 7.7 billion baht. Source: NNT -- 2024-09-14 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai defence minister appoints ex-RTA expert as secretary by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has appointed General Trisak Indararusmi, a former expert with the Royal Thai Army (RTA) and a former classmate of ex-prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, as his secretary. This appointment precedes Phumtham’s official commencement at the ministry, set for Monday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338149-thai-defence-minister-appoints-ex-rta-expert-as-secretary/

Thailand's Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has appointed General Trisak Indararusmi, a former expert with the Royal Thai Army (RTA) and a former classmate of ex-prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, as his secretary. This appointment precedes Phumtham’s official commencement at the ministry, set for Monday. Gen. Trisak, an alumnus of Class 10 from the armed forces preparatory school, is expected to bring significant experience to his new role. Rumours suggest that Phumtham may also appoint Gen. Worawit Chinanawin as his adviser. The Defence Ministry has planned a welcoming ceremony for the new defence minister, which will include traditional respects to sacred objects and an inspection of a guard of honour. Following the ceremony, military leaders are anticipated to brief Phumtham, who will then outline policy guidelines for the armed forces. Phumtham, who also serves as a deputy prime minister, stated yesterday that the annual military reshuffle will be completed promptly. He clarified that the reshuffle was not discussed during a recent introductory meeting with military leaders. He assured that proper procedures will be followed for the annual reshuffle and pledged to address any differences that may arise during the process. “During the rotation of positions, whether it be at the Defence Ministry or elsewhere, there will be speculation, rumours and slander. It’s our responsibility to screen and resolve the matters carefully.” Phumtham emphasised that the government has no intention of meddling in military affairs but aims to enhance cooperation for the public good. He expressed confidence that, under his leadership, the RTA would dutifully perform their roles, assist in alleviating public hardships, and safeguard the constitutional monarchy, reported Bangkok Post. In related news, Phumtham visited U-Tapao Airport to monitor the progress of its development project, aiming for completion by 2029. The deputy PM inspected the U-Tapao Airport and Eastern Aviation City development project in Ban Chang district, Rayong province. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-14 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Arcade foul: Teens slam pervert caught filming skirts in Rayong mall by Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 7 Two teenage girls issued a warning to others after a pervert filmed under their skirts while they played a basketball arcade game in a shopping mall in the eastern province of Rayong on September 9. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338147-arcade-foul-teens-slam-pervert-caught-filming-skirts-in-rayong-mall/

Two teenage girls issued a warning to others after a pervert filmed under their skirts while they played a basketball arcade game in a shopping mall in the eastern province of Rayong on September 9. The 17 year old schoolgirls, B and C, gave an interview with Kom Chad Luek on September 12 about the incident. They explained that they had visited the shopping mall’s game arcade at around 7.30pm on September 9 and recorded themselves playing the basketball game. The girls placed their mobile phones on a table behind them and played together. They intended to share the video on social media the next day and checked the footage. To their shock, they discovered a man in a grey work uniform filming under their skirts. The man was seen walking behind them and secretly filming them using his mobile phone. He was unaware that his actions were being recorded by the phone behind him. The video clearly showed his face and his workplace could be identified from his uniform. The girls revealed that they shared the video with their family members, who contacted the man’s employer. The company questioned the man and subsequently dismissed him. The company informed the girls’ families that the man had a history of sexual harassment in the workplace. He reportedly filmed women in the company previously. The girls said they did not report the matter to the police because the man already lost his job as a result of his actions. In a related report, Bangkok police arrested a 50 year old Thai man in April for filming under women’s skirts. He confessed to the crime and blamed alcohol for his actions. Another Thai man was arrested in October of last year for secretly filming under the skirts of women in various shopping malls and pedestrian bridges in Bangkok. Officers found more than 870 explicit videos of more than 430 victims on his mobile phone. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 7 Source: Then Thaiger -- 2024-09-14 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Trucking scandal: Wife confronts sex worker in Saraburi showdown (video) by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ เจ๊ม้อย v+ A truck driver’s wife shared a video in which she had a heated argument with a Thai sex worker who persistently harassed her husband and other truck drivers in the central province of Saraburi by repeatedly offering sexual services to them. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338146-trucking-scandal-wife-confronts-sex-worker-in-saraburi-showdown-video/