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Second-hand tsunami: Used car flood drives Thai sellers to despair by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of MotorwatThailand A torrent of high-quality used cars flooding the market might sound like a bargain hunter’s dream but it’s turning into a nightmare for sellers. While buyers drive off with the deals, automakers in Thailand are hitting potholes trying to move new stock, and used car dealers are struggling to keep sales engines running. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337145-second-hand-tsunami-used-car-flood-drives-thai-sellers-to-despair/

A torrent of high-quality used cars flooding the market might sound like a bargain hunter’s dream but it’s turning into a nightmare for sellers. While buyers drive off with the deals, automakers in Thailand are hitting potholes trying to move new stock, and used car dealers are struggling to keep sales engines running. The second-hand car market skidded to a halt in the first half of 2024, and though industry insiders hope for a slight uptick, forecasts for 2025 already look like a car crash waiting to happen. The number of repossessed cars zooming past 200,000 this year is only adding fuel to the fire. This gluttony of gleaming motors should be a seller’s paradise, but with sales from January to June faltering, dealers are strapped for cash to snap up these unwanted wheels. Many of these repossessed rides are in mint condition, with banks and finance companies barely getting the keys back before throwing them on the auction block. But it’s not all smooth driving. High interest rates on second-hand auto loans and sagging consumer buying power are deflating any chance at higher resale prices, says Vithavat Thongves of the Federation “We are monitoring car seizures, which keep increasing this year amid the economic slowdown that has lasted for months.” The year 2023 saw a jaw-dropping 250,000 vehicles seized, a stark contrast to the usual 150,000 to 180,000 in healthier times, according to recent figures. An electric vehicle charges at the Fast Auto Show Thailand, picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Yuphin has pointed out that most of these impounded rides are trusty pickups, typically owned by small business operators hit hard by financial woes. “It’s the small businesses, the SMEs, still reeling from the pandemic and current economic slump, struggling to stay afloat with little liquidity.” As if things couldn’t get worse, used car dealers have been forced into a brutal price-cutting frenzy akin to the electric vehicle (EV) market price war. The oversupply glut in the used car market has forced many sellers to slash prices just to get customers through the door. Naturally, the longer these motors sit unsold, the more their value nosedives, according to the club. Pinyo Tanawatcharaporn, head honcho of used car outfit Yo Ratchada and former president of the Association of Used Cars, added that the EV price war is making matters worse. “The used car market had never been in crisis until Chinese EV makers became powerful players in the global and Thai markets. They are causing disruptions to the automotive industry and its supply chains.” Some Chinese EV manufacturers have slashed car prices to attract customers, with discounts reaching up to 100,000 baht, said Pinyo. Falling prices have led prospective buyers to delay their purchases, waiting to see if prices will drop further, he explained. Investment return In July, EV Primus Co, a local distributor of EVs under multiple brands, including Chinese marque Wuling, launched the compact sedan EV Wuling Binguo in Bangkok for less than 500,000 baht, said EV Primus chief executive Pitaya Tanadamrongsak. “The retail price was set following a joint discussion between SGMW and my company, which expects to receive an appropriate investment return. This is not a price war.” SGMW, which stands for SAIC-GM-Wuling, manufactures Wuling vehicles. Pitaya mentioned that companies could sell EVs at low prices due to the reduced cost of lithium-ion batteries, a key EV component, now priced at 100,000 baht. Cheaper auto parts enable manufacturers to offer more competitive prices. “We will not participate in a price war or price dumping. We have chosen to give our customers the best price since day one.” Zeekr Intelligent Technology, a Chinese EV maker under the Zeekr brand, stated it would not engage in price-cutting tactics to avoid damaging the reputation of Chinese EVs and eroding consumer trust. The company intends to market its Zeekr X compact electric sports utility vehicles to the luxury segment, said Bao Zhuangfei, head of Zeekr’s Southeast Asia region. The Electric Vehicle Association of Thailand (EVAT) is closely monitoring EV price trends in the country. Chinese companies Former EVAT president Krisda Utamote acknowledged that the decrease in new EV prices impacts second-hand EV sales, but expects the effect to be short-lived. He attributed the lower prices of new EVs to some Chinese firms’ efforts to reduce their stocks. Prospects for used car sales are expected to improve in the second half of the year as buyers gain better access to auto loans, despite some ongoing challenges. Financial service providers frequently reject loan applications due to high debt levels, fearing non-performing loans. However, after discussions with the Association of Used Cars, finance companies may relax their lending criteria, said Vichai Suwanasilar, president of the association. Financiers have agreed to approve more loan applications from used car buyers if the vehicle is certified by the association, which assists in screening used cars, Vichai explained. Interest rates for used car loans range from 2.3% to 7%, according to the association, reported Bangkok Post. Despite these financial relief measures, the impact of banks’ stricter lending criteria is expected to become more apparent next year, Vichai noted. “A shortage of used cars is possible in the first and second quarters of 2025 due to this year’s sluggish new car sales. This scenario would result in fewer cars entering the used car market.” by Bob Scott TOP Picture courtesy of MotorwatThailand Full story: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-03 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Italian Tourist Locked in Office Over Visa Refund Dispute Picture courtesy: Facebook/ข่าว สวท.สมุย An Italian man called the police for help after being locked in an office by a Myanmar woman following a dispute over a visa refund. This unusual incident took place on the serene island of Koh Phangan in Surat Thani Province on August 30. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337144-italian-tourist-locked-in-office-over-visa-refund-dispute/

Picture courtesy: Facebook/ข่าว สวท.สมุย An Italian man called the police for help after being locked in an office by a Myanmar woman following a dispute over a visa refund. This unusual incident took place on the serene island of Koh Phangan in Surat Thani Province on August 30. Mr. Pietro, a 34-year-old Italian tourist, found himself in a dire situation at an office that handles visa extensions for travellers like himself. The office, part of a registered service company in Moo 8, Koh Phangan Subdistrict, was the scene of a tense negotiation gone wrong. Pietro had visited to request a refund for his visa and work permit fees but ended up being detained instead. The 191 emergency hotline received Pietro's distress call about being locked in the office. This alerted the local police. Superintendent Pol. Col. Panya Niratimanon and District Chief Mr. Noppadon Kaomali, in coordination with the Koh Phangan Immigration Office, quickly sent a team to investigate. Upon arrival, authorities found the office's door locked, with 25-year-old Miss Su Su Aye, a Myanmar national and employee, blocking the exit. Pietro was seen signalling for help through the door. Police negotiated the release with another staff member, Ms. Nunticha, who eventually opened the door, freeing a visibly emotional Pietro. The backstory revealed that Pietro’s request for a refund had escalated quickly. When negotiations failed, both parties began recording the interaction on their phones. Miss Su Su Aye eventually locked the door and detained Pietro, waiting for legal advice on having the recordings deleted. In response, the police charged Miss Su Su Aye with unlawful detention and unauthorised work beyond her permitted duties. Three mobile phones used in recording the incident were seized for further evidence. Miss Su Su Aye has been handed over to the Koh Phangan Police Station for legal proceedings. So far, no further comments have been made from either party or the service company. Picture courtesy: Facebook/ข่าว สวท.สมุย -- 2024-09-03 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Tuesday 3 September 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337141-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-tuesday-3-september-2024/

The Minister of Transport announced that the Southern Land Bridge megaproject will proceed as the government drafts the necessary Southern Economic Corridor bill. This one-trillion-baht project aims to create a shipping shortcut between Ranong and Chumphon, providing an alternative route for cargo ships between the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand. The SEC Act is expected to come into effect by September next year. Phuket's Royal Forest Centre will close the site of a large Buddha statue on a hill near Karon Beach due the risk of further landslides, following the deaths of 13 people on August 23rd. An inspection revealed that five of the 20 rai of land used for the statue were outside the permitted area.. Officials have seized six temple buildings, filed a police complaint against the foundation that built them, and posted seizure notices on the encroached land, fearing further landslides. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra told media that she aims to finalise her cabinet line-up this week, before submission for royal assent. The new Cabinet is expected to retain the current finance and foreign ministers but will likely see 11 new ministers and deputy ministers. A Rayong court has ordered a recycling company to pay 1.7 billion baht in compensation for environmental rehabilitation after industrial waste leaked from its storage facility since 2011. The company violated the law by failing to recycle hazardous waste and instead discharged it into the environment. Local residents have been complaining about the pollution since 2013. Around the region South Korea's health ministry said it was deploying military doctors to assist in some hospital emergency rooms due to a shortage of medical staff, but disputed a warning by some physicians that the system was on the verge of collapse. Adding that reports that some major hospitals had suspended ER operations were false. Thousands of trainee doctors, walked off the job in February to protest against a plan to increase medical student numbers by 2,000 a year to meet what authorities project will be a severe shortage of doctors. Todays Weather Chiang Mai and the north: Thunder showers 32 32C degrees celsius Bangkok: sunny, Thunder showers 32 Pattaya: Heavy rain for most of the day 30 Phuket and the south: Bright with thundershowers 30 Hia Hin: Cloudy with rain on and off most of the day 30C Much the same over the weekend . AQI: green which is good Green clear, yellow moderate, Orange High, Red unhealthy. Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Wunderground.com The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Windy.com. -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-09-03 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Tourists Under Investigation for Illegal Fishing in National Park Picture courtesy: MGR online - ณัฐวุฒิ แซ่เอีย Authorities in Thailand have launched a legal investigation into a couple caught fishing illegally within the protected boundaries of Khao Yai National Park. This incident was revealed when the couple posted photos of themselves angling in the park on social media. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337133-tourists-under-investigation-for-illegal-fishing-in-national-park/

Picture courtesy: MGR online - ณัฐวุฒิ แซ่เอีย Authorities in Thailand have launched a legal investigation into a couple caught fishing illegally within the protected boundaries of Khao Yai National Park. This incident was revealed when the couple posted photos of themselves angling in the park on social media. The images, shared in a social media group dedicated to the national park, showed the couple enjoying a fishing trip at Thung Kwang, a popular tourist spot within the park. Accompanied by a casual caption about a relaxing weekend, the post sparked immediate backlash from online users who noted that fishing within the park is strictly prohibited. Chaiya Huayhongthong, the head of Khao Yai National Park, confirmed that legal action has been initiated against the couple. "We have instructed our legal team to file a police report against these individuals," he stated. "Their actions are a clear violation of the National Parks Act and constitute wildlife poaching." Under the National Parks Act of 2019, engaging in activities such as luring, capturing, or harming wildlife within a national park is strictly forbidden. Additionally, the act prohibits the use of any tools or weapons for hunting or capturing animals, stressing the severity of the couple's infraction. Chaiya expressed disappointment over the couple's blatant disregard for the park’s regulations and stressed the importance of visitor education regarding the rules governing national parks. "We have never encountered such a blatant violation before," he said. "We urge all visitors to familiarize themselves with the park's guidelines before their visit." The incident has raised further questions about the enforcement of park regulations and the need for stricter measures to protect wildlife and natural resources. Resident wildlife and delicate ecosystems within Khao Yai National Park face constant threats from human activities, making adherence to regulations crucial for conservation efforts. -- 2024-09-03 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Paetongtarn Shinawatra Faces Political Crisis Over New Legal Challenges Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Paetongtarn Shinawatra could lose her position as Prime Minister and leader of the Pheu Thai party following new lawsuits linked to the impeachment of her predecessor, Srettha Thavisin, last month. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337131-paetongtarn-shinawatra-faces-political-crisis-over-new-legal-challenges/

Paetongtarn Shinawatra could lose her position as Prime Minister and leader of the Pheu Thai party following new lawsuits linked to the impeachment of her predecessor, Srettha Thavisin, last month. Paetongtarn, daughter of Pheu Thai’s de facto leader Thaksin Shinawatra, is under intense scrutiny. Fresh lawsuits have been filed with the Constitutional Court via the Election Commission, seeking her removal from office. The lawsuits claim that Thaksin orchestrated her appointment and that she did not adhere to constitutional and political party laws. These legal actions also call for the dissolution of the Pheu Thai party, the main faction in the current coalition government. This turmoil is rooted in the impeachment of former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who was ousted by a narrow 5:4 decision in the Constitutional Court. Srettha’s downfall was triggered by his appointment of Pichit Chuenban, a former lawyer and convict, as a minister without formal endorsement from the Pheu Thai executive board. This controversial decision, allegedly influenced by Thaksin, led to Srettha’s removal from office. Paetongtarn and the Pheu Thai party are accused of being under Thaksin’s undue influence. Thaksin, who cannot legally participate in the party, is suspected of manipulating key decisions, including the problematic appointment of Pichit. If found guilty of violating political ethics, Paetongtarn and the entire Pheu Thai executive board, along with all current cabinet members, could be banned from holding political office for several years. The legal precedent set by Srettha’s impeachment serves as a basis for the new lawsuits, which could dramatically alter the Thai political landscape. Despite these challenges, Paetongtarn and her newly formed cabinet are scheduled to participate in official ceremonies with King Maha Vajiralongkorn. This includes an audience, formal appointment, and an oath-taking ceremony, set to occur in the middle of this month, before they commence their governance duties. However, with the imminent court decisions, the future of Paetongtarn’s leadership and the stability of the Pheu Thai party hang in the balance. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-09-03 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Tourist Police and Anti Drug Officers Patrol Pattaya Walking Street to Deter Crimes By Aim Tanakorn A team of Tourist Police and officers from the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) jointly inspected Walking Street in South Pattaya on the night of September 1st, to bolster tourist’s confidence, as the high season approaches. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337128-tourist-police-and-anti-drug-officers-patrol-pattaya-walking-street-to-deter-crimes/

A team of Tourist Police and officers from the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) jointly inspected Walking Street in South Pattaya on the night of September 1st, to bolster tourist’s confidence, as the high season approaches. The inspection, which took place around 7:30 PM, was led by Pol. Lt. Gen. Panurat Lakboon, Secretary-General of the ONCB, and Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira Phueak-am, Commissioner of the Tourist Police Bureau. The officers began the patrol at the entrance of Walking Street and were joined by Mr. Phichanon Thawisuk, Banglamung Deputy District Chief, Pattaya Police, and several entertainment venue operators. Following the observation, the officers greeted 100 security personnel from various venues along Walking Street. These security workers are tasked with monitoring and preventing any violence among both domestic and international tourists. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS -- 2024-09-03 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Big Buddha Temple in Phuket Closed Amid Forest Encroachment Probe Picture courtesy: Thai PBS The renowned Big Buddha Temple in Phuket’s Karon district has come under scrutiny, halting all activities amid an investigation into its potential encroachment on national forest reserves. This follows a tragic mudslide on August 23 that claimed 13 lives near the mountain’s base. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337125-big-buddha-temple-in-phuket-closed-amid-forest-encroachment-probe/

Picture courtesy: Thai PBS The renowned Big Buddha Temple in Phuket’s Karon district has come under scrutiny, halting all activities amid an investigation into its potential encroachment on national forest reserves. This follows a tragic mudslide on August 23 that claimed 13 lives near the mountain’s base. Authorities displayed "Stop" and "No Entry" signs at the temple entrance today, per an order from the Phuket Sangha Office. The temple’s abbot had already been instructed to cease all construction activities on Khao Nark Kerd Mountain, where the 45m tall, white marble-covered Big Buddha statue stands. Forest Department officials suspect that the fatal mudslide was exacerbated by illegal deforestation on the mountain slopes, part of a national forest reserve. The illegal clearing may have destabilised the terrain, contributing to the disaster. The Big Buddha, a 45m high and 25.45m wide statue in a seated position, faces Chalong Bay and was declared the 'Buddhist Treasure of Phuket' by Thailand's Supreme Patriarch in 2008. The landmark offers panoramic 360° views of the island, including sights of Phuket Town, Kata, Karon, and Chalong Bay, making it a staple in global tourist guides, reported Thain PBS. This popular tourist destination now finds itself embroiled in a complex legal and environmental issue. The investigation aims to determine the extent of any unauthorized encroachment and the subsequent environmental impact. The temple, known for its spiritual and aesthetic significance, stands shuttered until further notice as authorities work to get to the bottom of these serious allegations. Both local and international visitors who had planned to visit the temple will now find the site off-limits. The outcome of this investigation could set a significant precedent for how such issues are handled in Thailand, balancing cultural heritage with environmental conservation. Local officials and environmental advocates urge patience and cooperation during this sensitive time, as the investigation could lead to substantial reforms in how religious and historical sites interact with protected natural areas. -- 2024-09-03 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

British man, accused of drug dealing, arrested in Phuket Picture courtesy: MGR Online British authorities, in collaboration with Thailand’s Crime Suppression Division, have successfully tracked down and arrested a 28-year-old British national, Mr. Ben, who had fled England after being sentenced to life imprisonment for drug trafficking offences. The arrest took place today (September 2nd) at a restaurant in Rawai, a district in Phuket. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337124-british-man-accused-of-drug-dealing-arrested-in-phuket/

Picture courtesy: MGR Online British authorities, in collaboration with Thailand’s Crime Suppression Division, have successfully tracked down and arrested a 28-year-old British national, Mr. Ben, who had fled England after being sentenced to life imprisonment for drug trafficking offences. The arrest took place today (September 2nd) at a restaurant in Rawai, a district in Phuket. Mr. Ben was indicted in the UK on multiple charges, including conspiracy to supply cocaine, heroin, and ketamine, as well as possessing property derived from criminal activities. After his conviction, he escaped to Thailand in 2022. Since then, he had been living under the radar, adopting a new identity as a boxer named "Billy" and renting a luxury pool villa and a condominium in Phuket. Acting on an extradition request from the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA), Thai authorities initiated a thorough investigation. Their efforts paid off when they located Mr. Ben competing in local boxing matches at a Phuket stadium. He had concealed his past well, blending into the local community and making it challenging for officials to trace him. Pol. Maj. Gen. Montree Thesakan, Commander of the Crime Suppression Division, along with Pol. Col. Phattharawut Onchuai and Pol. Lt. Col. Phongsak Meemusik, led the operation that resulted in Mr. Ben’s capture. Despite his arrest, Mr. Ben denied all charges laid against him during the initial interrogation. No immediate statements were made available to the press, nor was it confirmed if he had legal representation in Thailand. Picture courtesy: MGR Online The arrest signifies a robust partnership between British and Thai law enforcement, highlighting their dedication to apprehending international fugitives, reported MGR Online. Mr. Ben has been handed over to the Office of the Attorney General for the legal process and is expected to be extradited back to the UK shortly. This case serves as a stern warning to those who believe they can evade justice by hiding abroad. The remarkable coordination exhibited by both countries underscores the efficacy of international cooperation in tackling serious crime. -- 2024-09-03 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Tuesday 3 September 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1337123-thailand-live-tuesday-3-september-2024/

Four routes under consideration for Koh Chang Bridge Image courtesy of EXAT The Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT) has initiated a series of public hearings regarding the proposed bridge connecting the mainland to Koh Chang Island, a popular destination in Trat province. The first hearing, held today, September 2, in Mueang district, garnered widespread support from locals and business owners. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337115-four-routes-under-consideration-for-koh-chang-bridge/

Thailand is on track to witness a dramatic uptick in foreign arrivals, targeting an impressive 12.2 million visitors in the final four months of 2024. This expected influx aims to push the annual total to nearly 36 million tourists, generating an anticipated 1.8 trillion baht in revenue, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). Thailand Gears Up for Tourist Boom: 12.2 Million Expected by Year-End Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337094-thailand-gears-up-for-tourist-boom-122-million-expected-by-year-end/

Taxi driver arrested for attempted rape of son’s teenage girlfriend by Petch Petpailin Photo via Amarin TV A Thai taxi driver, arrested for attempting to rape his son’s 16 year old girlfriend, claimed that he committed the crime because he felt neglected by his son since he started dating the girl. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337060-taxi-driver-arrested-for-attempted-rape-of-son’s-teenage-girlfriend/

A Thai taxi driver, arrested for attempting to rape his son’s 16 year old girlfriend, claimed that he committed the crime because he felt neglected by his son since he started dating the girl. Mueang Phra Samut Chedi Police Station officers were alerted to a physical altercation in Soi Ruam Pattana in the central province of Samut Prakarn at 7pm on Friday, August 30, and rushed to investigate. Officers then discovered that the altercation stemmed from the attempted rape of a 16 year old victim called Bam. Bam told police that she was a student at a high school in the Phra Padaeng neighbourhood of Samut Prakan and had a boyfriend who had left school and was working in Soi Pracha Uthit 90. They had been in a relationship for over a year, and she had met his father, 46 year old Suthat, who worked as a taxi driver, many times before. Bam recounted that on the day of the incident, Suthat visited her at her home on Soi Suksawat 80 and invited her to get into his taxi, claiming he had something important to discuss. Once in the car, Suthat alleged that he had secretly filmed sexual activities between Bam and his son, using a hidden camera he had placed in his son’s bedroom. Suthat then took Bam to his rented room on Soi Suksawat 100, where the alleged incident occurred. He demanded that Bam resolve the sex tape issue by having sex with him and if she refused he threatened to release the explicit footage online. Bam responded by telling him to go ahead if he wished, prompting Suthat to change his approach. According to Bam, Suthat told her that he romantically loved her and suddenly hugged and kissed her. Suthat then attempted to have sex with Bam but she managed to escape from the room. Bam sought help from men who were gathered and drinking beer outside a nearby rented room. Son’s negligence blamed The men helped Bam and engaged in a physical altercation with Suthat. Suthat managed to escape from the scene but was later arrested yesterday, September 1. Suthat stated that he had gone to Bam’s home to borrow a phone charger while drunk. He had consulted her about his son’s 26 year old ex-girlfriend and a plan to sue her for sexually assaulting a minor. He asked Bam to get into his taxi to talk about it and they drove to the rented room. Suthat said he held Bam’s hand while talking and began to have sexual feelings for her. He asked whether Bam would have sex with him but she refused. He was about to take Bam home when she ran away to seek help from neighbours. Suthat claimed that he had never actually possessed any explicit videos, despite what he had told Bam. He admitted that he fabricated the story because he felt neglected. He was seeking attention from his son, who had stopped interacting with him since he began dating his girlfriend. Although Suthat’s statements seemed dubious, they did include a confession that he had attempted to rape Bam. Consequently, officers charged him with sexually assaulting an adult by threatening or using violence, under Section 278 of the Criminal Law. The penalty for this offence is up to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to 200,000 baht, or both. Additionally, Suthat faced charges under Section 295 of the Criminal Law for assaulting another person, causing both physical and mental harm. The penalty for this charge is up to two years in prison, a fine of up to 40,000 baht, or both. In a bid to make amends, Suthat expressed a desire to apologise to his son. A video shared by ThaiRath depicted him bowing at his son’s feet and receiving a hug from him before being taken to prison. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Amarin TV Source: The Thaiger 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Social media uproar over 1,500 baht police fee for minor accident by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod A car owner in Thailand faced an unexpected fee after reporting a minor accident at a police station, sparking a social media debate on the legitimacy of the charge. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337052-social-media-uproar-over-1500-baht-police-fee-for-minor-accident/

A car owner in Thailand faced an unexpected fee after reporting a minor accident at a police station, sparking a social media debate on the legitimacy of the charge. Yesterday, September 1, a user on X (formerly known as Twitter) shared a complaint from a follower regarding an incident where their car was rear-ended. The damage was minor, so they drove to the police station to file a report. However, upon trying to leave, they were unexpectedly asked to pay 1,500 baht for a vehicle inspection. The receipt provided was a cash bill similar to those used in shops or restaurants, not an official document from the Royal Thai Police. The page shared a photo of the receipt and questioned its legitimacy, asking if it was appropriate for the police to charge this fee. The post quickly gained traction, prompting numerous comments from netizens who were equally puzzled by the situation. Many questioned whether police officers have the authority to conduct vehicle inspections and whether the fee was justified. Another user commented on the post, explaining that normally, vehicle inspections are conducted when a vehicle is to be released from police custody or returned to its owner while a case is still unresolved. They noted that such inspections are typically only necessary when the damage is severe and requires towing. In cases of minor damage, taking photos should suffice as evidence for the case file. The controversy has led to widespread discussion about the practices and accountability of the police in such situations. Many netizens expressed disbelief, questioning the propriety of using a commercial receipt for police services. The incident raised concerns about transparency and the proper conduct of police officers, especially in handling minor accidents. The police have yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident or clarify the legitimacy of the fee and the receipt provided. As the debate continues online, many are calling for a thorough investigation and clearer guidelines to prevent similar occurrences in the future. by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Abhisit predicts Paetongtarn’s govt term to last, despite challenges by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of Bangkok Post Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s government is expected to complete the rest of its three-year term, as no coalition parties seem prepared for an early General Election, according to former Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva, who also noted that these parties are still striving to demonstrate to their voters that they merit re-election. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337050-abhisit-predicts-paetongtarn’s-govt-term-to-last-despite-challenges/

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s government is expected to complete the rest of its three-year term, as no coalition parties seem prepared for an early General Election, according to former Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva, who also noted that these parties are still striving to demonstrate to their voters that they merit re-election. However, he pointed out that the coalition’s weak point is the diminishing public confidence in the Pheu Thai Party-led government, which could worsen with any new negative developments, including misconduct, potentially leading to a full-blown crisis. When questioned about the possibility of Paetongtarn being ousted in a military coup, similar to her father Thaksin and aunt Yingluck, Abhisit stated that her being the third Shinawatra to lead the government might not justify a coup but her leadership approach could. “None of us wants to see that problem [of a government being ousted in a coup] again… So, if this government could resolve the country’s problems in a morally right way, all sides should be happy.” Despite his long-standing rivalry with the Pheu Thai Party, Abhisit admitted that the party had certain successes that should have been incorporated into its core policies for further development. “It’s a shame that [Pheu Thai members] failed to build on their previous achievements to drive their party forward… Worse still, they still couldn’t even shake off the [Shinawatra] influence.” Repeating past mistakes Although Thaksin’s influence on the Pheu Thai-led government might boost confidence among his supporters, Abhisit recognises that there is also the risk of repeating past mistakes which previously led to his downfall. “So, if Thaksin hasn’t learnt from his past mistakes at all, there is the risk that history will repeat itself.” Thawisan Lonanurak, an independent academic and former secretary-general of the Northeast Chamber of Commerce, highlighted key challenges facing the country’s 31st prime minister. The scrutiny of the 36 new Cabinet ministers is anticipated to take longer than Pheu Thai and Paetongtarn expect. If even one minister is later deemed ineligible, it could cast uncertainty over the new PM’s fate. Former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin was removed from office by a Constitutional Court ruling, which found him guilty of a serious ethics violation after appointing ex-convict Pichit Chuenban as a PM’s Office minister. Thawisan emphasised that the Council of State and the Secretariat of the Cabinet must exercise extra caution this time. Cabinet ministers The overall quality of the prospective Cabinet ministers was also called into question. Thawisan claimed that appointments were based on party quotas rather than the suitability of the candidates. “An academic is made agriculture and cooperatives minister, while a policeman is picked to oversee education administration, which is just wrong and makes people feel hopeless.” Thawisan also criticised the decision to allow a faction within a political party to join the new coalition against the party’s resolution, warning that it could weaken the party as an institution. He predicted that in the future, more factions would follow suit, negotiating with MPs from other parties to secure Cabinet seats, disregarding their party’s resolutions. Stithorn Thananithichot, director of the Office of Innovation for Democracy at King Prajadhipok’s Institute, stated that the new government’s performance would be crucial in determining whether the coalition can complete its term and Pheu Thai’s chances in the next national election. “If the country’s economy isn’t improving at all by the end of this year, the new government could be short-lived.” General Prawit Wongsuwon, leader of the Palang Pracharath Party, which was excluded from the new government, is not expected to pose an immediate threat. However, Stithorn warned that if the Paetongtarn administration fails to improve its performance, the PM might face a series of challenges that could jeopardise her career, with Prawit potentially turning the tables on her, reported Bangkok Post. by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe