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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/

Parking altercation at Nonthaburi market, two women stabbed by Nattapong Westwood Image courtesy of KhaoSod A late-night altercation at the Owl Market in Nonthaburi, Thailand, resulted in two women being stabbed over a parking dispute over a barrier fence. The confrontation escalated when concerns about moving a fence to avoid vehicle damage spiralled into violence. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341762-parking-altercation-at-nonthaburi-market-two-women-stabbed/

A late-night altercation at the Owl Market in Nonthaburi, Thailand, resulted in two women being stabbed over a parking dispute over a barrier fence. The confrontation escalated when concerns about moving a fence to avoid vehicle damage spiralled into violence. Police received a report around 1.30am today, October 26, about a woman being stabbed in the car park behind the Owl Market on Nonthaburi Bypass Road. Officers from the Rattanathibet Police Station, along with emergency response volunteers from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation, arrived promptly at the scene. They found 30 year old Sirikanya with stab wounds on her left arm and back, and 31 year old Nusara who had been stabbed in the left shoulder. Both were given initial medical treatment at the scene before being transported to Nonthavej Hospital. The altercation began over a disagreement about a barrier fence. The suspect, 40 year old Jantana claimed she was trying to move the fence slightly to prevent her car from hitting it. This action led to a heated argument, culminating in Jantana allegedly using a knife to defend herself when she felt threatened. Jantana, who sells toys at the market, recounted that she, her husband, and their four year old daughter had been packing up their stall around midnight. Concerned that their car might hit the adjacent stall’s metal barrier, she got out to move the fence. The neighbouring stall owners, who were drinking and chatting, confronted her, questioning why she needed to move the fence. “I just wanted to avoid damaging our car. They started to argue, and I felt threatened. So, I grabbed a knife from the car for protection,” said Jantana. Self-defence She admitted to stabbing Sirikanya and Nusara but insisted it was in self-defence after they began to attack her. Jantana’s husband, 60 year old Jet corroborated her account, explaining that they were simply trying to leave the market. “The other stall owners got agitated and started shouting. My wife just wanted to make sure our car wouldn’t hit the barrier.” A friend of the victims, 31 year old Rungarun, a friend of the victims, said he was discussing sales with a colleague when he heard the commotion. “I heard the argument and went over to see what was happening. I told them they could move out without a problem, but they seemed very upset.” According to Rungarun, the situation escalated quickly. “Jantana went to her car and got a knife. When Sirikanya and Nusara tried to intervene, she stabbed them. It all happened so fast.” Police arrested Jantana at the scene and seized the knife used in the incident. She faces charges of causing bodily harm with a weapon and carrying a knife in a public place without reasonable cause. She was taken to the Rattanathibet Police Station for further questioning, reported KhaoSod. by Nattapong Westwood Image courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-26

Tropical storm Trami to drench 31 provinces in Thailand today by Nattapong Westwood Image courtesy of KhaoSod A severe tropical storm, Trami, is set to bring heavy rain and potential flooding to 31 provinces across Thailand today, October 26, with 40% of the areas expected to experience significant rainfall. The Meteorological Department has issued a weather forecast, warning of the tropical storm’s impact over the next 24 hours. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341752-tropical-storm-trami-to-drench-31-provinces-in-thailand-today/

A severe tropical storm, Trami, is set to bring heavy rain and potential flooding to 31 provinces across Thailand today, October 26, with 40% of the areas expected to experience significant rainfall. The Meteorological Department has issued a weather forecast, warning of the tropical storm’s impact over the next 24 hours. Strong northwesterly and northeasterly winds are sweeping across the Andaman Sea and upper Thailand, contributing to the adverse weather conditions. The powerful tropical storm Trami is currently situated over the central South China Sea. This weather pattern is causing an increase in rainfall, particularly in the northeastern, central, and eastern regions of the country. For the Andaman Sea and lower Gulf of Thailand, moderate winds and waves are expected, with waves reaching heights of one to two metres. In areas with thunderstorms, wave heights could exceed two metres. Mariners in these regions are urged to navigate carefully and avoid sailing in thunderstorm-prone areas. The northern region will experience cool temperatures in the morning with isolated thunderstorms, particularly in Uttaradit, Phitsanulok, Phetchabun, and Phichit provinces. The lowest temperatures will range between 22 to 25 degrees Celcius (°C), while the highest will be between 33 to 36°C. Northeasterly winds will blow at speeds of 10 to 15 kilometres per hour (km/h). In the northeastern region, expect cool morning weather with scattered thunderstorms and heavy rainfall in Loei, Chaiyaphum, Nakhon Ratchasima, Amnat Charoen, and Ubon Ratchathani. Temperatures will range from 18 to 24°C in the morning and 32 to 34°C during the day. Northeasterly winds will blow at speeds of 10 to 30 km/h. The central region will see scattered thunderstorms with heavy rain in some areas, particularly in Lopburi and Saraburi provinces. Morning temperatures will range from 23 to 25°C, rising to 35 to 36°C during the day. Northwesterly winds will blow at speeds of 10 to 20 km/h. Cool mornings In the eastern region, 40% of the area will experience thunderstorms and heavy rainfall, especially in Nakhon Nayok, Prachinburi, Chachoengsao, Chon Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat provinces. Temperatures will range from 23 to 26°C in the morning and 33 to 35°C during the day. Northwesterly winds will blow at speeds of 15 to 30 km/h, with waves reaching heights of about one metre, and over two metres in areas with thunderstorms. For southern Thailand (eastern coast), 40% of the area will experience thunderstorms, particularly in Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Yala, Pattani, and Narathiwat provinces. Morning temperatures will range from 22 to 25°C, rising to 33 to 35°C during the day. Northwesterly winds will blow at speeds of 15 to 30 km/h, with waves reaching heights of about one metre, and over two metres in areas with thunderstorms. For areas south of Nakhon Si Thammarat, wind speeds will increase to 15 to 35 km/h, and waves will reach heights of one to two metres, with higher waves in thunderstorm areas. On the western coast of southern Thailand, 60% of the area will experience thunderstorms and heavy rainfall, especially in Phang Nga, Phuket, Krabi, Trang, and Satun provinces. Morning temperatures will range from 24 to 25°C, rising to 31 to 33°C during the day. Northwesterly winds will blow at speeds of 15 to 35 km/h, with waves reaching heights of one to two metres, and over two metres in areas with thunderstorms. Bangkok and its surrounding areas will see thunderstorms in 40% of the area, with temperatures ranging from 23 to 27°C in the morning and 34 to 36°C during the day. Northwesterly winds will blow at speeds of 10 to 20 km/h. by Nattapong Westwood Image courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-26

Thailand raises retirement age to 65 for all sectors by Mitch Connor Image courtesy of Matichon Thailand’s Labour Ministry is set to extend the retirement age for both private and government sectors to 65 years, aligning it with countries like Singapore and Switzerland, announced Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341750-thailand-raises-retirement-age-to-65-for-all-sectors/

Thailand’s Labour Ministry is set to extend the retirement age for both private and government sectors to 65 years, aligning it with countries like Singapore and Switzerland, announced Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn. Phiphat stated that the decision to increase the retirement age is influenced by significant advancements in health and medical technology, which have improved life expectancy. Additionally, the ministry plans to amend the Social Security Act to include approximately two million migrant workers from Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia in the social security benefit scheme. Self-employed individuals and workers in specific industries currently excluded from the Social Security system are also to be incorporated under the amended law. This category encompasses taxi drivers, delivery riders, agricultural workers, domestic workers, and street vendors. There is also a proposal to raise fund contributions from both employers and employees by 2% each, with the government contributing an additional 2.5%. This would result in a total contribution increase of 6.25%. Plans are in motion to adjust the wage ceiling and salary cap regularly to keep pace with currency value changes. Phiphat revealed that the ministry is considering converting the Social Security Fund’s largest expense—currently variable medical costs, estimated at 60 billion baht annually, into a fixed cost. By transferring this financial responsibility to an insurance company, the Social Security Office (SSO) could manage floating costs more effectively and improve fund management. The Social Security Fund aims for a return of at least 5% by 2025, an increase from the current 2.3 to 2.4% return in 2023. Achieving this target could extend the fund’s viability by an additional three to four years. Phiphat mentioned that the SSO’s international investments, particularly in the US and European markets, have generated returns of approximately 6 to 7%. Next year, the SSO plans to invest around 65% of its fund in low-risk assets like government bonds and savings, while the remaining 35% will be allocated to higher-risk assets, including domestic and international stocks and real estate. This marks a shift from the current investment ratio of 70/30. Phiphat emphasised the importance of proactive fund management to ensure sustainable growth amidst an ageing population and to secure the fund’s future financial stability. Phiphat warned that failure to take these actions could result in the depletion of the Social Security Fund within the next 30 years, reported Bangkok Post. by Mitch Connor Image courtesy of Matichon Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-26

Police Crack Down on Youth Racing Motorbikes on Vibhavadi Rangsit Road Picture: Daily News BANGKOK - Thai police arrested 22 youths aged 16 to 20, known for illegal street racing on Vibhavadi Rangsit Road in Bangkok, causing public disturbance and risking safety. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341747-police-crack-down-on-youth-racing-motorbikes-on-vibhavadi-rangsit-road/

Picture: Daily News BANGKOK - Thai police arrested 22 youths aged 16 to 20, known for illegal street racing on Vibhavadi Rangsit Road in Bangkok, causing public disturbance and risking safety. The crackdown, led by Police Major General Surachet Bundit, involved officers from Vibhavadi Rangsit Traffic Control Centre and National Police, targeting modified motorbikes used for high-speed racing. A total of 21 motorbikes were seized in the operation. The arrests followed directives from Police General Kittirat Phunpet, the Police Chief, and Deputy Commissioner Samran Nuamma, focusing on reducing reckless driving and illegal racing. Officers tracked the group’s plans to gather and race modified motorbikes, which did not meet legal standards, on the Vibhavadi Road express lanes. Charges were issued for "reckless driving endangering public safety" and "attempted racing on public roads without formal permission," affecting both drivers and passengers. Picture: Daily News Following the arrests, the 22 individuals were taken to the Dusit District Court and Central Juvenile and Family Court, which ruled 20-day detentions for their actions. Those with prior criminal records, including theft, received an extended 26-day sentence. Authorities also permanently confiscated the motorbikes involved, aiming to prevent future disturbances and improve road safety. The public is urged to report illegal road racing, as police continue efforts to keep major roads safe and accessible for all motorists, reported Daily News. -- 2024-10-26

Thailand Anticipates Full Recovery of Indian Tourists This Year File photo courtesy: Elite Visa Thailand is set to welcome a full recovery of Indian tourist arrivals this year, projecting over 2 million visitors and almost 90 billion baht in revenue. The boost is attributed to a visa-free scheme and increased flight availability. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341745-thailand-anticipates-full-recovery-of-indian-tourists-this-year/

Thailand is set to welcome a full recovery of Indian tourist arrivals this year, projecting over 2 million visitors and almost 90 billion baht in revenue. The boost is attributed to a visa-free scheme and increased flight availability. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) predicts at least 5,000 Indian tourists will visit during the Diwali holiday. Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thiengthong highlighted the importance of India as a key market, emphasising strong cultural and tourism ties between the two nations. By October 20, Indian tourists totalled 1.64 million, making India the third-largest source of visitors after Malaysia and China. In 2019, Thailand saw a record 1.96 million Indian arrivals, generating 80 billion baht. Many Indian visitors have planned weddings in southern Thailand this high season, noted Minister Sorawong. While flight capacity hasn't completely recovered, discussions with the Indian ambassador to Thailand are underway to explore adding more flights. TAT governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool expects Thailand to maintain 5,000 Indian arrivals daily for the rest of the year. Patsee Permvongsenee, TAT's executive director for the Asean, South Asia, and South Pacific regions, stated that visa-free travel has boosted Indian visitor numbers from an average of 4,000 to 5,000 daily, occasionally peaking at 6,000-7,000. However, challenges persist, such as the baht's fluctuating exchange rate and competition from other destinations. To celebrate this renewed interest, "Amazing Thailand Diwali Festival Bangkok 2024" will run from October 28 to November 3 at Khlong Ong Ang, featuring cultural shows, Indian cuisine, and religious events. The area is being promoted as "Little India," with the Tourism and Sports Ministry planning more festivals to attract both Indian and international tourists. As part of "Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year," further efforts aim to establish Khlong Ong Ang as a vibrant cultural destination, reported Bangkok Post. File photo courtesy: Elite Visa -- 2024-10-26

Thailand’s Winter Expected to Start 29 October, Colder Than Last Year Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Thailand’s Meteorological Department has announced that the 2024 winter season is set to begin on 29 October 2024 and is expected to last until late February 2025. This season is anticipated to be colder than last year, with December 2024 to January 2025 marking the coldest period. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341744-thailand’s-winter-expected-to-start-29-october-colder-than-last-year/