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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. Although “Trami” remains approximately 400 kilometers southeast of Hainan, China, it is expected to approach Vietnam’s central coast from October 26th to 28th, causing rough seas along Thailand’s eastern coastline. In Pattaya Bay, waves have risen to around 1.5 to 2 meters. Officials raised a half-mast red flag to signal potential danger, particularly for weekend tourists heading to Koh Larn. The Tourist Police and Marine Department patrolled from Bali Hai Pier to Koh Larn’s main piers, evaluating wave conditions and enforcing safety protocols. By Kittisak Phalaharn Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-28

Thai FDA Pressured to Tackle Contaminated Grape Import Scandal File photo courtesy: Wikimedia The Thailand Consumers Council (TCC) is urging the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to address the alarming discovery of chemical contamination in Shine Muscat grapes. Almost all samples tested revealed unsafe levels of forbidden substances, prompting calls for immediate action. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341896-thai-fda-pressured-to-tackle-contaminated-grape-import-scandal/

The Thailand Consumers Council (TCC) is urging the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to address the alarming discovery of chemical contamination in Shine Muscat grapes. Almost all samples tested revealed unsafe levels of forbidden substances, prompting calls for immediate action. Last week, laboratory tests on 23 out of 24 grape samples showed contamination with unsafe chemical residues, including chlorpyrifos and endrin aldehyde, which are prohibited under Thai food safety regulations. The TCC, led by secretary-general Saree Aongsomwang, is advocating for legal measures against the importers responsible for these tainted grapes. They further demand that any undisturbed imports undergo rigorous examination and destruction if contaminated. Ms Saree urged importers to recall their potentially harmful products for thorough inspection and called for a ban on companies implicated in knowingly importing contaminated goods. The tested grape samples were procured from various sources including online vendors, fresh markets, and modern trade enterprises across Bangkok and its neighbouring provinces. The lab results revealed 14 problematic chemicals exceeding the legal safety limit of 0.01 mg/kg. Furthermore, a total of 50 chemical residues were detected, of which 22 remain unregulated by Thai law. This discovery includes substances like triasulfuron and fludioxonil. FDA secretary-general Surachoke Tangwiwat acknowledged the findings, pointing out that while 36 of the detected residues were within safe limits, there isn’t sufficient information on the risks posed by 14 others. He advised consumers to thoroughly wash fruits before consumption. Dr Surachoke reaffirmed the FDA's dedication to consumer protection, assuring that contaminated imports will be confiscated and legal proceedings initiated against importers. The contamination scare has led to consumer avoidance of the Shine Muscat grapes, causing vendors, like Thaworn Prommee from Nakhon Ratchasima, significant financial losses and spoilage of stocks previously in high demand. File photo courtesy: Wikimedia -- 2024-10-28

Thai Finance Ministry Plays the Long Game on Casino Plans Picture courtesy: Wikimedia The Finance Ministry is prioritising flood recovery in the North of the country before advancing its ambitious plans for a casino-entertainment complex, according to Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341895-thai-finance-ministry-plays-the-long-game-on-casino-plans/

The Finance Ministry is prioritising flood recovery in the North of the country before advancing its ambitious plans for a casino-entertainment complex, according to Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat. While the topic has garnered interest within the government’s coalition partners, Mr Julapun stressed that there is "no rush" to move forward. The proposed casino plan, part of the Pheu Thai-led government's policy statement, awaits discussion among coalition parties to ensure alignment before any action is taken. The bill to legitimise casinos has already seen positive feedback during its public consultation, as required by the constitution, and it is set to enter the cabinet's consideration later this year. However, detailed scrutiny and debates amongst stakeholders are expected to shape its final form significantly. A crucial committee will be tasked with selecting potential locations for these complexes, considering tourism strategies. As of now, possible venues include two in Bangkok and one each in the Eastern Economic Corridor, Chiang Mai, and Phuket. An independent agency will conduct a thorough feasibility study, assessing job creation prospects and community impacts. The Finance Ministry's proposal includes setting up a policy board, chaired by the prime minister, to oversee these gaming complexes. A licence, valid for up to 30 years, will be mandatory for operations, costing 5 billion baht upfront and an annual fee of 1 billion baht. Despite interest from six major businesses, the thought-out approach mirrors a collaborative government vision. Bhumjaithai Party leader Anutin Charnvirakul has highlighted the need for coalition dialogue before cabinet submission. His scepticism over resolving illegal gambling suggests further discourse is vital. In parallel, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is gearing up to meet with business leaders to explore economic enhancement strategies. An agenda centred around improving competitiveness and providing support to SMEs ensures economic issues remain at the forefront, reported Bangkok Post. Picture courtesy: Wikimedia -- 2024-10-28

Bangkok Art Biennale returns with 200 contemporary art pieces in 11 venues by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ BkkArtBiennale The biennial art festival, Bangkok Art Biennale (BAB), returns with 200 pieces of contemporary art at 11 landmarks around the city from October 24 to February 25, 2025. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341893-bangkok-art-biennale-returns-with-200-contemporary-art-pieces-in-11-venues/

The biennial art festival, Bangkok Art Biennale (BAB), returns with 200 pieces of contemporary art at 11 landmarks around the city from October 24 to February 25, 2025. The international contemporary art festival BAB 2024 marks its fourth iteration this year. The Bangkok Art Biennale Foundation organises the festival in collaboration with the Thai Beverage Company, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), and the Tourism Authority of Thailand. Since its inception in 2018, the Biennale has successfully linked Bangkok’s cultural heritage with significant modern artistic expressions. It aims to enhance the city’s creative economy while providing a platform for Thai and international artists to showcase their work. The event will showcase over 200 contemporary art pieces by 76 artists from 39 countries across 11 venues in Bangkok including: Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram (Wat Pho) Wat Arun Ratchawararam Wat Prayurawongsawas Warawihan Wat Bowon Niwet Bangkok National Museum Chao Fa Art Gallery Bangkok Art and Culture Centre Museum Siam One Bangkok Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre Central World The mixed-use building One Bangkok is the new venue for this year, featuring cutting-edge technology, art, culture, and sustainability. The project has just launched its grand opening on October 25, introducing itself as the global integrated lifestyle hub. Aside from the innovative venue, the event also showcases contemporary arts in historic settings such as Wat Bowon Niwet and other attractions along the Chao Phraya River. This year’s theme, “Nurture Gaia (รักษากายา),” focuses on diverse interpretations of nature, nurturing, femininity, and reflections on ecology and power dynamics. In the Thai language, รักษา means nurture, while กายา (gaia) means body. During the opening week, there will be special performances by renowned artists, including Kira O’Reilly from Finland and Ireland, showcasing works that explore women’s experiences. BAB promises to be a vibrant celebration of contemporary art, offering visitors unique insights into global issues through diverse artistic media. More information about the festival, along with the schedules for each activity in the event, can be found on the official Facebook page and Instagram of BAB 2024. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ BkkArtBiennale Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-28

Police pursue school director’s daughter for 15 million baht fraud by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Police are set to issue a summons for the daughter of a school director involved in a fraudulent savings scheme that has swindled over 15 million baht. The family maintains they were unaware of her actions, and her whereabouts remain unknown. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341890-police-pursue-school-director’s-daughter-for-15-million-baht-fraud/

Police are set to issue a summons for the daughter of a school director involved in a fraudulent savings scheme that has swindled over 15 million baht. The family maintains they were unaware of her actions, and her whereabouts remain unknown. A significant case emerged in Ban Kruat district, Buriram province, where local traders presented evidence, including chat messages and bank transfer slips, to police at Ban Kruat Police Station. They accused A (a pseudonym), the 30 year old daughter of a school director in Ban Kruat, of orchestrating a savings scheme fraud that affected more than 60 people across several provinces. Victims reportedly lost amounts ranging from 10,000 baht to several million baht, with total losses exceeding 15 million baht (US$445,630). Today, October 27, Ban Kruat Police Station’s Deputy Inspector Panas Krotprakhon confirmed that the investigation is ongoing. The police are currently interviewing victims and collecting relevant evidence. So far, five victims in Ban Kruat have come forward, and the evidence collection is still underway. Police have made attempts to contact the accused savings scheme leader to appear before the investigators, but she has yet to respond. Consequently, the police will proceed with issuing a summons for her to meet with the investigators. Based on the circumstances, she faces charges of public fraud and violations of the Savings Scheme Act. One of the victims revealed that approximately 66 people nationwide and abroad have filed complaints, with over 10 victims in Ban Kruat alone. Some reported the case to Ban Kruat Police Station, while others approached the Crime Suppression Division and the Central Investigation Bureau, reported KhaoSod. Reporters visited the accused’s residence, which also serves as a large convenience store in the village. However, A was not found. Her brother-in-law stated that he does not know her whereabouts, only receiving a call asking him to look after the shop. Since then, he has been unable to reach her and insists that no one in the family, including her husband’s side, was aware of her activities, as she never mentioned or discussed them. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-28

PM Paetongtarn May Dissolve House Ahead of Court Ruling Composite pictures courtesy: Daily News Thailand is on tenterhooks with speculation swirling about a potential move by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to dissolve the House of Representatives. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341876-pm-paetongtarn-may-dissolve-house-ahead-of-court-ruling/

A diamond ring lost in a rubbish pit in Nakhon Phanom sparked significant social media interest after its owner spent 30 hours searching for it. The incident was documented on TikTok, capturing the extensive efforts to recover the ring. The story began when the owner removed the diamond ring while washing hands, only to have it accidentally fall into the trash and get taken to a landfill. The owner, realising the loss, hired officials and locals to help search for the ring in the vast 70-rai (approximately 28 hectares) municipal rubbish pit. TikTok user Apitchaya Ning posted two short clips, each 17 and 14 seconds long, showing the search process. One clip depicted the arduous task of sifting through mountains of rubbish, while the other showed the owner proudly displaying the recovered ring, a large diamond that sparkled brightly. The first video, which garnered nearly 2.6 million views, included a message warning about the consequences of removing rings while washing hands and highlighted the 30 hours spent searching the landfill. The footage showed a group of people rummaging through piles of garbage, determined to find the precious item. In the comments, the owner revealed that 20,000 baht (US$600) was spent on hiring people to assist in the search. The value of the diamond ring was mentioned to be 20 times the cost of hiring, approximately 400,000 baht (US$11,880). This revelation prompted numerous comments from netizens, who were both amazed and curious about the ring’s value and the successful retrieval process. “Incredible! How did you manage to find it after 30 hours?” one commenter asked. “It’s stunning, worth every minute of the search,” another remarked. The responses highlighted the astonishment and admiration for the perseverance and ultimate success of the recovery effort, reported KhaoSod. Other commenters inquired about the methods used to locate the ring amidst the vast expanse of rubbish. One user explained, “You need to know where the rubbish truck from your area dumps the waste. Each district has a collection point before the waste is transported to the landfill.” The TikTok owner also addressed concerns about preventing the hired searchers from keeping the ring if found. “I told them it was a diamond ring, so they searched very carefully,”*the owner explained, ensuring transparency and diligence during the search. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-28

Composite pictures courtesy: Daily News Thailand is on tenterhooks with speculation swirling about a potential move by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to dissolve the House of Representatives. A member of the Democrat Party has predicted this event may occur within the next 90 days, presumably to preempt an impending decision by the Constitutional Court. The court is set to rule on a lawsuit concerning Thaksin Shinawatra, Paetongtarn's father and the influential figure behind Pheu Thai, one of the ruling parties. This claim came to public notice through the insights shared by Mongkolkit Suksintharanon, a former maverick MP now aligned with the Democrat Party. He took to Facebook to voice his prediction, suggesting that a fresh election announcement might precede any court-mandated dissolution of Pheu Thai and other parties. Mongkolkit assessed the likelihood of this scenario at over 70%. This political tremor stems from a legal complaint led by activist lawyer Thirayut Suwankesorn, directed at Thaksin and Pheu Thai. The charges involve allegations of Thaksin’s undue influence over the party, primarily orchestrated through his daughter, Prime Minister Paetongtarn. The lawsuit contends that Thaksin managed a secretive convergence of coalition leaders at his residence, shortly after the Constitutional Court's dismissal of Thailand's former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. Such a move from Paetongtarn could complicate an already bewildering political landscape, with new parties potentially entering the fray under unfamiliar banners, potentially confusing the electorate. The urgency now lies with the Office of the Attorney-General, bound by the court's order to process this lawsuit within the designated 15-day timeframe, adding a ticking clock to the unfolding political drama, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-10-28

FILE photo The House committee is preparing to introduce a landmark bill that aims to ban corporal punishment, specifically caning, nationwide. This proposed legislation marks a significant shift in the country’s approach to child-rearing practices. If passed, Thailand will become the second nation within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to outlaw such disciplinary measures. Weeraphat Khantha, spokesman for the legislative committee responsible, announced this progressive move. Currently, under the existing Civil Procedure Code, which has been in place for 89 years, parents and guardians in Thailand have the legal right to discipline children through various physical means, including caning. The proposed bill seeks to amend this long-standing regulation, reflecting modern attitudes towards child welfare and discipline. A recent study by Thailand's Social Development and Human Security Ministry highlights the pressing need for change. The study, citing figures from UNICEF, found that an alarming 38.6% of children aged between 1 and 14 were subjected to physical punishment by their parents in 2022. Such statistics underscore the potential impact of the proposed legislation on improving both child welfare and parenting practices across the nation. The committee emphasises that the amendment is aimed at promoting positive and non-violent child-raising practices. Weeraphat Khantha noted, "The change is expected to promote better relationships between parents and children while reducing trauma among young ones." He further stated that, if approved, Thailand would join a progressive global movement, becoming the 68th country worldwide to implement a ban on corporal punishment, reported Bangkok Post. The impending submission of this bill to the Thai Parliament is a pivotal moment for child rights in Thailand, reflecting a commitment to fostering safe and nurturing environments for future generations. -- 2024-10-28

Diamond ring recovered after 30-hour search in Nakhon Phanom landfill (video) by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A diamond ring lost in a rubbish pit in Nakhon Phanom sparked significant social media interest after its owner spent 30 hours searching for it. The incident was documented on TikTok, capturing the extensive efforts to recover the ring. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341875-diamond-ring-recovered-after-30-hour-search-in-nakhon-phanom-landfill-video/

House Committee to Propose Landmark 'No-Cane' Legislation FILE photo The House committee is preparing to introduce a landmark bill that aims to ban corporal punishment, specifically caning, nationwide. This proposed legislation marks a significant shift in the country’s approach to child-rearing practices. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341878-house-committee-to-propose-landmark-no-cane-legislation/

The recent NIDA Poll reveals that a majority of people surveyed have faith in Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's government lasting through to at least the near-end of its current term in 2027. Conducted by the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA) on October 21st and 22nd, the poll garnered insights from 1,310 individuals from various educational and professional backgrounds. A notable 41.68% of respondents are optimistic about the government completing its term, while 11.99% expect it to last almost the full duration. Conversely, 19.08% predict the government will survive another two years, 16.87% see its tenure extending only 12 months more, and 9.77% believe it could end by this year. Economic challenges are seen as a potential downfall, with 34.43% of participants citing unmet economic promises as a threat to the government’s stability. Additionally, allegations against Thaksin Shinawatra, the prominent figure behind Pheu Thai party, might destabilise the administration, according to 32.52% of those polled. Inter-coalition disputes are also seen as a potential issue, with 17.25% of respondents highlighting this as a possible catalyst for an early end. However, 16.64% see no current issues that could threaten the administration before the end of its term. Concerns about protests are shared by 10.92% of participants, who speculate mass demonstrations could undermine governmental stability. Meanwhile, 9.62% believe constitutional amendments, especially concerning political ethics, might challenge the administration’s longevity. Additionally, the amnesty law has been pointed out by 8.42% as another possible destabilising factor. Only a modest 6.95% anticipate a coup could overthrow the current government, reported Thai PBS. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2024-10-28

Poll Shows Confidence in Paetongtarn Govt Lasting Until 2027 Picture courtesy: Siam Rath The recent NIDA Poll reveals that a majority of people surveyed have faith in Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's government lasting through to at least the near-end of its current term in 2027. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341877-poll-shows-confidence-in-paetongtarn-govt-lasting-until-2027/

AirAsia CEO Tony Fernandes Forced to Fly Thai Airways After Failing to Book AirAsia Ticket AirAsia’s top executive, Tony Fernandes, recently found himself in a unique situation, unable to secure a seat on his own airline, he had to book a flight with Thai Airways, sparking widespread online humour and speculation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341806-airasia-ceo-tony-fernandes-forced-to-fly-thai-airways-after-failing-to-book-airasia-ticket/

to continue: Thailand Live Monday 28 October 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1341858-thailand-live-monday-28-october-2024/

Foreign National Arrested for Drug Trafficking in Patong, Phuket In a coordinated sting operation led by Pol. Col. Chalermchai Hoernsawat, Superintendent of Patong Police Station, and Deputy Superintendent Pol. Lt. Col. Narubodin Phangleesen, authorities arrested a Nigerian national on charges of drug trafficking. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341808-foreign-national-arrested-for-drug-trafficking-in-patong-phuket/

Hua Hin Hotel Manager Fired After Dispute Over Customer Review Composite images: AMARIN TV The manager of a five-star hotel in Hua Hin has been dismissed following intense public criticism of their response to a customer’s review. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341828-hua-hin-hotel-manager-fired-after-dispute-over-customer-review/

Phuket’s office of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports (MoTS) has confirmed that the upcoming tourism tax, expected to be implemented early next year, will not impact foreigners who reside or work in Thailand. A MoTS Phuket official clarified that the proposed tax has not yet been presented to the Cabinet for approval. “We should wait for any further information because now the tourist tax has not yet gone to Cabinet, and some things may change once it goes into Cabinet,” the official stated. The official indicated that the tax might be designed similarly to the entry fees approved by the Cabinet early last year. Despite the impending changes, the MoTS Phuket assured that the tax would not apply to foreigners living or working in Thailand. “The tourist tax will depend on the type of visa a traveller holds,” the official explained. Foreigners holding non-immigrant or immigrant visas or those with valid work permits proving employment in Thailand will be exempt from the tax. “This approach ensures that individuals residing or working in the country aren’t subject to the same fees as short-term tourists,” the official added. However, the official advised staying informed about potential future modifications to the policy, reported The Phuket News. “It’s important to stay updated, as future changes or adjustments to the policy may occur,” the official concluded. by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of AoT Phuket Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-28

Bangkok Expressway and Metro (BEM) has taken legal action against an individual for his alleged reckless behaviour, as captured in a viral video showing him sliding down an escalator handrail at a metro station in Bangkok. A Facebook user known as Nut Freerunning posted the video on October 22, tagging it with “Slider+MRT+freerunning.” The footage depicted the man running through a crowd of commuters at exit No. 1 of Wat Mangkon station on the Blue Line, operated by BEM. He then leapt onto the gap between the escalators and slid down to the ground. Security cameras at the station recorded the incident at 1.43pm. The video quickly garnered numerous comments from netizens condemning the behaviour and urging relevant authorities to take action. Some users also suggested that the video be removed. Initially, the individual declined these requests, responding with, “Thank you” and “I didn’t get caught.” But at last, BEM announced yesterday, October 25, that the man had been charged with inappropriate behaviour that could endanger public safety. The mass transit operator stated that security at stations would be enhanced by installing barriers between escalators to prevent similar stunts. Additionally, BEM mentioned that its security personnel would be instructed to closely monitor activities at stations to ensure the safety of all passengers. The company reiterated the importance of adhering to the rules, reported Bangkok Post. The video has now been deleted from the individual’s Facebook page. In similar news, a Thai man, reportedly intoxicated, fell down the escalator at Phahon Yothin MRT station, only to berate rescue personnel who came to his aid, claiming to be a high-profile journalist. by Mitch Connor Screenshot courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-28

Composite images: AMARIN TV The manager of a five-star hotel in Hua Hin has been dismissed following intense public criticism of their response to a customer’s review. The controversy began when a guest posted on social media about a charge for a toothbrush, priced at 20 baht, after staying at the luxury hotel. The guest had written in a Google review, “If you stay here, remember to bring your own toothbrush because the hotel charges 20 baht for one.” In response, the manager left a comment in English, saying, “Now let me explain or educate you a little bit about green hotels; we care for the environment, and this is why we do not put dental kits for free in the rooms.” This response, perceived as condescending, sparked significant backlash, with many questioning the manager’s attitude towards customer service. On 26 October, the hotel issued a public apology on social media, stating, “The hotel deeply regrets the incident and sincerely apologises for the manager’s actions.” They confirmed the manager’s employment contract was immediately terminated, adding, “We respect and value all feedback from our guests and are committed to improving our service. We hope you will allow us the opportunity to provide you with a better experience in the future.” The management of the Hua Hin resort expressed a commitment to maintaining high service standards, emphasising a renewed focus on customer satisfaction. -- 2024-10-28

Phuket’s new tourism tax won’t affect foreign residents or workers Phuket’s office of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports (MoTS) has confirmed that the upcoming tourism tax, expected to be implemented early next year, will not impact foreigners who reside or work in Thailand. by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of AoT Phuket Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341856-phuket’s-new-tourism-tax-won’t-affect-foreign-residents-or-workers/