webfact

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

Michelin-Star Thai Chef Jay Fai to Retire Next Year Picture courtesy: Facebook หม่องม่วน In a surprising announcement, Michelin-star chef Jay Fai, known for her emblematic restaurant in Bangkok, revealed her plans to retire next year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341973-michelin-star-thai-chef-jay-fai-to-retire-next-year/

Facial Recognition to Replace Boarding Passes at Six Thai Airports 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. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341971-facial-recognition-to-replace-boarding-passes-at-six-thai-airports/

Khao Yai National Park clarifies contractor resigned amid elephant concerns by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Khao Yai National Park has clarified that Sutthiporn Sinka, known as “Phlai Su” resigned from his duties of pushing back wild elephants rather than being transferred. He faced numerous complaints for using inappropriate methods that posed risks to tourists. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341970-khao-yai-national-park-clarifies-contractor-resigned-amid-elephant-concerns/

Khao Yai National Park has clarified that Sutthiporn Sinka, known as “Phlai Su” resigned from his duties of pushing back wild elephants rather than being transferred. He faced numerous complaints for using inappropriate methods that posed risks to tourists. Sutthiporn, a contractor at Khao Yai National Park, was responsible for managing wild elephants that ventured onto visitor paths. As of yesterday, October 27, Chaiya Huayhongthong, the head of Khao Yai National Park, clarified that Sutthiporn had retired last year. However, due to his capability in managing wild elephants, he was re-employed as a contractor under a temporary employment agreement. Chaiya explained that a group of tourists had lodged complaints against Sutthiporn for his methods in managing wild elephants. Specifically, he would approach the elephants at dangerously close distances, sometimes using a motorcycle or walking within close range. This behaviour encouraged groups of photographers and other tourists to follow suit, taking photos of both the elephants and Sutthiporn’s methods. Chaiya continued, explaining that the park has since revised its approach to managing wild elephants. They have strengthened their central patrol team or the safety monitoring unit. This team is well-prepared with personnel and vehicles, working collaboratively to ensure that the methods used to manage elephants do not pose risks to either the staff or the tourists. Khao Yai National Park has not transferred Sutthiporn to any other role as reported. Instead, he submitted his resignation as a contractor to pursue personal ventures, effective from November 1, Chaiya confirmed. For tourists visiting Khao Yai National Park, Chaiya advised that if they encounter wild elephants in service zones or on paths without nearby staff, they should observe the elephants’ behaviour. If the elephants are foraging normally, tourists should avoid stopping to take photos or causing any disturbances. Afterwards, tourists should call the Khao Yai National Park Visitor Centre at 08-6092-6529. This will enable the park to send a team to manage the situation safely, reported KhaoSod. by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-29

Thai man arrested for attempted murder of sex worker over wallet dispute Photo via SiamRath Police arrested a Thai man for the attempted murder of a sex worker in Pattaya after he crashed his car into her and fired shots at her, following a misunderstanding over a suspected theft. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341958-thai-man-arrested-for-attempted-murder-of-sex-worker-over-wallet-dispute/

DJ’s dental dilemma: Online shop ‘bites back’ leaving him toothless In a saga that had more ups and downs than a DJ’s mixing session, Buriram’s own DJ Odd Inter, real name Rewat Wongkamchan, found himself toothless after he took a costly bite out of online shopping. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341940-dj’s-dental-dilemma-online-shop-‘bites-back’-leaving-him-toothless/

to continue: Thailand Live Tuesday 29 October 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1341959-thailand-live-tuesday-29-october-2024/

Thaksin Shifts from Cheerful Power Broker to Cautious Strategist Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Thaksin Shinawatra, the de facto leader of Pheu Thai, is adopting a more cautious approach amid ongoing legal threats that could endanger his daughter Paetongtarn's role as prime minister, dissolve his party’s ruling coalition, and even risk his own return to jail. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341952-thaksin-shifts-from-cheerful-power-broker-to-cautious-strategist/

A provincial court in Narathiwat has officially dismissed the long-running Tak Bai massacre case, marking a significant development nearly 19 years after the tragic event that left 78 protestors dead. The case was dropped last Friday due to the statute of limitations expiring, leaving no defendants available to stand trial. Tak Bai Massacre Case Dismissed as Statute of Limitations Expires Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341947-tak-bai-massacre-case-dismissed-as-statute-of-limitations-expires/

Thaksin Shifts from Cheerful Power Broker to Cautious Strategist Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Thaksin Shinawatra, the de facto leader of Pheu Thai, is adopting a more cautious approach amid ongoing legal threats that could endanger his daughter Paetongtarn's role as prime minister, dissolve his party’s ruling coalition, and even risk his own return to jail. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341952-thaksin-shifts-from-cheerful-power-broker-to-cautious-strategist/

Thaksin Shinawatra, the de facto leader of Pheu Thai, is adopting a more cautious approach amid ongoing legal threats that could endanger his daughter Paetongtarn's role as prime minister, dissolve his party’s ruling coalition, and even risk his own return to jail. Sources reveal that Thaksin, who previously exuded confidence and dared critics to sue, has become more alert to covert moves by his opponents, carefully navigating power struggles within Thailand’s political landscape. With his party, his daughter, and himself entangled in multiple lawsuits since his recent return from self-imposed exile, Thaksin is now committed to protecting his political standing. Political activists have filed cases alleging Thaksin’s covert influence over Pheu Thai, including coalition formation and policy-making. In particular, accusations focus on Thaksin's orchestrating of the coalition and policy control from behind the scenes, possibly in violation of Thailand’s anti-corruption laws. Additionally, the Election Commission, Thailand's Constitutional Court, and National Anti-Corruption Commission may weigh in on whether Thaksin manipulated his medical condition to avoid prison time following his recent sentencing. His alleged backroom dealings to oust reformist Move Forward as a condition of his return are also under scrutiny. Despite the mounting legal and political pressures, Thaksin appears determined to maintain Pheu Thai’s grip on power until the legislative term ends in 2027. Sources suggest he is aiming to avoid dissolving parliament, as an early election would likely favour the People’s Party, a reformation of the banned Move Forward, reported Thai Newsroom. Thaksin is reportedly focused on keeping his coalition intact, despite fraught alliances with parties like Bhumjaithai and Ruam Thai Sang Chart, both of whom may work against him when advantageous. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2024-10-28

Thai man survives attempted murder orchestrated by ex-girlfriend by Petch Petpailin Photo via KomChadLuek A Thai man survived an attempted murder after a brutal gang attack allegedly orchestrated by his ex-girlfriend, whom he dated for only two months before breaking up at her condominium in the Huai Khwang area of Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341905-thai-man-survives-attempted-murder-orchestrated-by-ex-girlfriend/

A Thai man survived an attempted murder after a brutal gang attack allegedly orchestrated by his ex-girlfriend, whom he dated for only two months before breaking up at her condominium in the Huai Khwang area of Bangkok. The victim, Jakkrit, sought help from non-profit organisation Saimai Survive, claiming that the police failed to deliver justice. He reported that he almost died in the attack but the officers only charged the assailants with physical assault rather than attempted murder. Jakkrit stated that his ex-girlfriend, who he believes orchestrated the attack, remains at large, leaving him in constant fear of another assault. He explained to the organisation that he dated his ex-girlfriend for two months but ended the relationship a week before the physical assault due to her violent behaviour. According to Jakkrit, the woman frequently threatened him with a knife and an electric shock device. The woman reportedly destroyed Jakkrit’s belongings and valuables during their arguments. Additionally, she did not have a job and continuously demanded money from him. Despite the break-up, the woman called Jakkrit to meet her at her condominium in Huai Khwang. Jakkrit agreed, concerned that she might harm herself as she was also suffering from depression. Upon his arrival, the woman deceived Jakkrit into picking up food from a delivery rider at the car park. However, there was no delivery staff present. Instead, eight men armed with knives approached him. Jakkrit recognised one of the men as his ex-girlfriend’s relative. He turned back to seek an explanation from her and saw her with a menacing, satisfied expression. She then strangled him from behind, allowing the eight men to assault him. Jakkrit recounted being stabbed in the back and cut on his throat but managed to escape. His ex-girlfriend urged him to stop running, claiming she would take him to a hospital but he no longer trusted her. He chose to run to a nearby police booth for help. Jakkrit was unable to contact his ex-girlfriend since the incident but the group of attackers continues to send him daily threats. He filed a complaint with the police but officers only issued arrest warrants for four of the assailants, not the full eight, and ignored his ex-girlfriend’s part in the alleged murder attempt. Jakkrit insists that all involved should face legal consequences. by Petch Petpailin Photo via KomChadLuek Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-28

Pattaya Boosts Safety Measures for Koh Larn Trips Amid Trami Storm Impact By Kittisak Phalaharn Pattaya — On October 26th, 2024, Pattaya City tourist police, alongside the Marine Department, intensified safety measures as Tropical Storm “Trami” brings strong winds and waves, impacting the Gulf of Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341902-pattaya-boosts-safety-measures-for-koh-larn-trips-amid-trami-storm-impact/