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Tesla Reconsiders Thailand Plant Amidst Global Strategy Shift A Tesla charger is seen, Oct. 19, 2022, in Freeport, Maine. (AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty, File) Tesla's proposed investment in Thailand is under scrutiny as the electric vehicle giant reassesses its global strategy in the face of declining sales growth and heightened competition from Chinese EV makers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335440-tesla-reconsiders-thailand-plant-amidst-global-strategy-shift/

A Tesla charger is seen, Oct. 19, 2022, in Freeport, Maine. (AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty, File) Tesla's proposed investment in Thailand is under scrutiny as the electric vehicle giant reassesses its global strategy in the face of declining sales growth and heightened competition from Chinese EV makers. Government spokesman Chai Wacharonke confirmed on Tuesday that Thailand is awaiting official word from Tesla regarding the potential scrapping of their investment plans. "Tesla is reviewing its investment plans worldwide, not just in Thailand," said Mr Chai. "However, there has been no confirmation [about halting the investment plan in Thailand] from the company. It’s been reported in the news. We’re waiting to hear from them." Recent media reports suggest that Tesla is prioritising its existing production bases in the US, China, and Germany. This strategy aligns with the company's April announcement to focus on building new, more affordable vehicles at its current factories rather than investing in new sites in Mexico and India. Indonesia, another hopeful for Tesla's investment, is still waiting for updates on a planned EV battery manufacturing plant. The two parties signed a $5 billion agreement in 2022, under which Tesla would source significant amounts of nickel for its EV batteries, reported Bangkok Post. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin initially disclosed Tesla's interest in Thailand after meeting with CEO Elon Musk at the UN General Assembly in New York last September. Following this, Mr Srettha toured Tesla's Fremont factory in California in November, reportedly persuading the company to consider Thailand for investment. Tesla’s deputy chief of investment was later invited to visit an industrial estate in Thailand's Eastern Economic Corridor and attend Loy Krathong celebrations in Chiang Mai. However, the South China Morning Post reported last Friday that Tesla’s interest in investing in Thailand and Malaysia seems to have waned. In Thailand, the focus now appears to be on EV charging stations rather than a full-scale production plant. Following a cabinet meeting on Tuesday, Prime Minister Srettha stated he had no new information on Tesla's possible withdrawal but noted ongoing discussions between the government and the company about a potential business plan. -- 2024-08-14 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Wednesday 14 August 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335436-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-wednesday-14-august-2024/

The Constitutional Court is due to rule today on Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin's fate following accusations that he violated the constitution by appointing to Cabinet a former lawyer who was jailed for contempt of court following a bribery attempt. The Prime Minister is unlikely to attend the hearing that could see him dismissed, scheduled for 3 pm today Members of both coalition and opposition parties voiced opposition to the government's entertainment complex bill to legalize casinos, arguing the drawbacks outweigh the benefits. They believe it won't curb illegal gambling, the financial gains don't justify the costs, and tourism doesn't need casinos. Concerns were also raised about securing local jobs. They questioned if Thailand could match the growth seen in Macau, Vietnam, or Singapore. Bangkok City councillors have submitted a letter supporting the plan to move Bangkok port out of the capital to reduce city congestion and air pollution. adding that if the congestion is relieved, the problem of fine dust will also improve. "The site will be repurposed for residential, commercial and retail spaces. The Department of Transport has dismissed reports of Chinese companies taking over Thai transport businesses, stating that licenses cannot be transferred and are only granted to Thai-registered entities. Discussions are planned to address concerns about Thai citizens being paid to hold shares to bypass this rule. A lift mechanic was killed yesterday at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport when an elevator he was repairing suddenly crashed down on him. The accident, which occurred around lunchtime in the domestic terminal, is under investigation. Around the region China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi will visit Myanmar today after heavy fighting near the Chinese border saw rebel groups making a series of gains that some see as a “fundamental change” in the situation. Todays Weather mothers day Monday Chiang Mai and the north: cloudy, thundershowers 32C degrees celsius Bangkok: Bright, partly cloudy, thundershowers 34 Pattaya: cloudy with showers 31 Phuket and the south: Sunny partly Cloudy 32 Hua Hin: Sunny with some showers expected this afternoon 32C 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 2024-08-14 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Disciplinary Committee Poised to Charge “Big Joke” and Associates Picture courtesy: Daily News The disciplinary committee investigating Pol. Gen. Surachate Hakparn, famously known as “Big Joke,” is nearing completion of its probe and plans to summon him and his associates to acknowledge charges this month. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335435-disciplinary-committee-poised-to-charge-“big-joke”-and-associates/

The disciplinary committee investigating Pol. Gen. Surachate Hakparn, famously known as “Big Joke,” is nearing completion of its probe and plans to summon him and his associates to acknowledge charges this month. With 90% of the inquiry concluded, the committee, headed by Pol. Gen. Sarawut Karnpanich, the Deputy Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police, is meeting on August 15 to discuss the case's progress and likely charge them by the end of August. The committee's findings are expected to be finalised during this meeting, scheduled at the Crime Suppression Division headquarters. The group facing these charges includes five individuals, notably Pol. Gen. Surachate Hakparn, reported Daily News. The other four are Pol. Lt. Col. Krits Priyaket, Pol. Col. Kittichai Sangkhathaworn, Pol. Sgt. Maj. Nattawut Watwaew, and Pol. Sgt. Maj. Natthanan Chujak. They are all accused of committing severe disciplinary violations. Interestingly, Pol. Lt. Col. Krits Priyaket has confessed, claiming sole responsibility. However, this confession does not absolve the others involved. The committee will use this information while deliberating further. As background, Pol. Gen. Surachate Hakparn, Deputy Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police, previously known for his active role in crime suppression and public relations, has faced scrutiny and controversy over his methods and actions. This investigation into severe disciplinary breaches marks a significant moment in his career, and the outcome may influence the Royal Thai Police's public and internal image. The case has garnered considerable attention, and the results of this disciplinary action will be closely watched. The charges and subsequent actions taken by the committee are expected to set a precedent within the police force, highlighting accountability at the highest ranks. As we await the final decision, all eyes will be on the Royal Thai Police to see how they handle this high-profile case. TOP Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-08-14 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Villagers Plant Banana Trees in Road Protest Over Potholes Picture courtesy: Daily News Villagers in Sangkha District, Surin Province, have had enough. For five long years, the primary road passing through their area has been a nightmare of potholes and poor lighting, making it almost impossible to navigate safely. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335434-villagers-plant-banana-trees-in-road-protest-over-potholes/

Villagers in Sangkha District, Surin Province, have had enough. For five long years, the primary road passing through their area has been a nightmare of potholes and poor lighting, making it almost impossible to navigate safely. As a result, these resilient residents have taken an unusual but striking step to draw attention to their plight: they've planted banana trees right in the middle of the road and set up donation boxes to protest the apparent neglect by government authorities. The disheartened villagers of Stung, Village No. 4, Dom Subdistrict, have been suffering due to a stretch of road riddled with potholes. This 1,500-metre strip of asphalt is ostensibly under the jurisdiction of the Dom Subdistrict Administrative Organization. However, despite its crucial role as a secondary main road connecting the Dom and Thep Raksa subdistricts and serving as a shortcut to Sangkha District, it has been in disrepair for over half a decade. According to numerous residents, no substantial repair work has taken place, leaving many cars and motorbikes susceptible to damage and accidents, especially during the rainy season when the potholes fill with water. Pictures courtesy: Daily News This has led to a number of incidents, including injuries from fallen motorbikes. Although officials have occasionally visited for inspections, no lasting remedies have been administered, reported Daily News. Determined to improve their situation, the villagers pooled their money to collect donations and set up a donation box. With the funds, they have been buying gravel to fill the holes temporarily. However, their standout approach involves planting banana trees in the middle of the road, aiming to push government agencies into action. Mr. Satit Monthon, a 48-year-old villager involved in the effort, lamented the authorities' inaction. "We've been living with this for years, scraping the undercarriage of our cars, getting injured. Officials come, listen, and leave, but nothing changes. We're doing what we can, but we shouldn't have to." The villagers hope this dramatic demonstration will finally push the relevant agencies to repair the road, ending their long-standing ordeal. TOP: Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-08-14 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

BOT Discusses Adjusting Credit Card Minimum Payment Picture courtesy: NNT The Bank of Thailand (BOT) is currently reviewing the minimum payment rate for credit card debt and is in discussions with credit card issuers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335431-bot-discusses-adjusting-credit-card-minimum-payment/

Picture courtesy: NNT The Bank of Thailand (BOT) is currently reviewing the minimum payment rate for credit card debt and is in discussions with credit card issuers. The central bank is considering reducing the minimum payment rate from the planned 8% back to 5%, following a request from Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. This change aims to alleviate the financial burden on consumers during challenging times. The BOT plans to finalize the decision soon, recognizing the urgency of the matter. Chayawadee Chai-Anant, Assistant Governor of the BOT, emphasized that any changes will be implemented with sufficient time for financial institutions to adjust their systems, ensuring that debtors can manage repayments effectively. This consideration comes amidst rising household debt in Thailand, expected to exceed 16.9 trillion baht by the end of 2024, accounting for over 91% of the country's GDP. The increase is attributed to a sluggish economic recovery and slow income growth, pushing many individuals toward debt, including informal lending sources. This situation has raised concerns among economic analysts and policymakers about the potential long-term impacts on the economy, including the risk of an increasing number of non-performing loans (NPLs). The BOT is acutely aware of these risks and aims to strike a balance between easing consumer burdens and maintaining financial stability, reported NNT. Financial institutions are preparing for the potential change, which could lower the immediate financial pressure on consumers but may extend the debt repayment period. This measure is seen as a temporary relief, with longer-term solutions needed to address the root causes of high household debt. The decision by the BOT will be closely watched by market participants, economists, and the general public to see how effectively it can balance short-term relief with long-term financial health. The outcome will also serve as an indicator of the government's commitment to tackling economic challenges in a sustainable manner. -- 2024-08-14 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya Bolt Driver Arrested for Allegedly Raping 18-Year-Old Passenger By Aim Tanakorn A Bolt driver in Pattaya was arrested by police after allegedly raping an 18-year-old passenger while she was drunk. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335428-pattaya-bolt-driver-arrested-for-allegedly-raping-18-year-old-passenger/

A Bolt driver in Pattaya was arrested by police after allegedly raping an 18-year-old passenger while she was drunk. The suspect, Mr. Kob (real name withheld by police), was arrested at 2:36 AM on August 13th, 2024. The Bolt driver was handed over to Pattaya police by a large group of teenagers who knew the victim and pressured him to surrender. According to the police report, Mr. Kob was accused of raping an 18-year-old woman, Ms. B (real name withheld to protect her privacy). Ms. B recounted the horrifying incident to police, saying that in May, she went out with friends for a drink and became intoxicated. Ms. B used the Bolt app to call a ride, and the perpetrator, Mr. Kob, arrived on a white Honda PCX motorcycle. He dropped her off at her accommodation as per her request. Upon reaching the apartment, Ms. B was still intoxicated, and the driver assisted her to her room. When she went to the bathroom to vomit, the Bolt driver allegedly confronted her, claiming she hadn’t paid the fare. He then reached into her bag and took money without her knowing how much he took. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-08-14 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

PM Faces Uncertainty as Constitutional Court Decision Looms Srettha Thavisin. Picture courtesy: MGR online Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin today expressed he has no contingency plan should the Constitutional Court strip him of his position tomorrow. He made clear there’s no intention to dissolve the House of Representatives if the ruling goes against him. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335426-pm-faces-uncertainty-as-constitutional-court-decision-looms/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin today expressed he has no contingency plan should Thailand's Constitutional Court strip him of his position tomorrow. He made clear there’s no intention to dissolve the House of Representatives if the ruling goes against him. The court will decide on whether Thavisin violated the law by appointing Pichet Chuenban, a convict, as the Prime Minister's Office Minister. The charge was brought forth by a group of senators who argue the appointment breaches legal provisions. For the verdict reading, Thavisin has delegated his secretary-general, Dr. Prommin Lertsuridej, to attend. Thavisin said if he is spared, he will continue with his duties as planned. Addressing comments made by his legal advisor, Wissanu Krea-ngam, who volunteered to step in temporarily if Thavisin is deposed, the Prime Minister stated he hasn’t considered this option. “Let it happen first, then I will consider what to do,” Thavisin remarked, underscoring his lack of premeditation in the face of potential removal. Thavisin's schedule remains packed over the next ten days, as he is set to attend multiple provincial meetings. This perhaps hints at his optimism about the court ruling in his favour, reported Thai PBS. In the political landscape, this looming court decision injects significant uncertainty. Thavisin's declaration underlines the fluidity of his situation and the absence of a clear fallback strategy, leaving both his supporters and detractors on edge. What's clear from Thavisin’s stance is his commitment—or perhaps stubbornness—in waiting out the court's decision before formulating his next moves. As the decision day approaches, the nation's eyes are firmly fixed on the Constitutional Court and the unfolding story of the Prime Minister's political fate. TOP: Srettha Thavisin. Picture courtesy: MGR online -- 2024-08-14 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Police Raid Pattaya Bar Selling Laughing Gas Balloons By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: Dailynews Pattaya police raided a bar on Walking Street last night for selling balloons filled with laughing gas and arrested five individuals. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335425-police-raid-pattaya-bar-selling-laughing-gas-balloons/

Pattaya police raided a bar on Walking Street last night for selling balloons filled with laughing gas and arrested five individuals. The raid was carried out by a team of Pattaya police on the night of August 12th, 2024. The police raided a small bar on Pattaya’s iconic Walking Street following a tip-off from concerned citizens. The citizens reported that the bar was allegedly selling laughing gas to Thai and foreign tourists. At the bar, authorities arrested 25-year-old cashier Ms. Jutharat (surname withheld by police), 27-year-old Myanmar national Mr. Ye Te, and three other Myanmar employees. The police seized a large amount of evidence, including three balloons filled with laughing gas, 29 used balloons, 38 tickets used for exchanging balloons, 80 ticket books, valves for the gas tanks, a gas gun, 14 tanks of laughing gas (nitrous oxide), sales records, and seven receipts. Police also found that the premises has a secret room for customers and a back room converted into a gas filling area. By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: Dailynews Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-08-14 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand's Tourism Boom: Revenue Set to Hit 2.8 Trillion Baht Grand Palace Bangkok. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand's tourism industry is experiencing a robust resurgence. A significant revenue surge is projected for this year, with experts predicting that total tourism earnings will soar to 2.8 trillion baht. This marks a remarkable 25% increase from the previous year's figures, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335424-thailands-tourism-boom-revenue-set-to-hit-28-trillion-baht/

Thailand's tourism industry is experiencing a robust resurgence. A significant revenue surge is projected for this year, with experts predicting that total tourism earnings will soar to 2.8 trillion baht. This marks a remarkable 25% increase from the previous year's figures, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). The resurgence is fuelled by a combination of increased flight numbers and an array of promotional campaigns aimed at both international and domestic visitors. Impressive Numbers Predicted International tourists are anticipated to contribute significantly, with expected arrivals of 18.2 million, generating 964 billion baht. Local travellers, making around 103 million trips, are set to add another 504 billion baht to the pot. This surge is seen in the backdrop of the TAT forecasting a 23% rise in tourism revenue. TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool has earmarked this year for welcoming at least 35.9 million international visitors, alongside recording 192 million domestic trips. The number of international flights is expected to bounce back to 80% of 2019 levels in the second half of the year, a 10% increase compared to last year. “We are optimistic about strong traffic during long holidays, including China’s Golden Week in October and the New Year holiday.” Key Markets and Celebrations Amongst the key inbound markets for the latter half of the year, East Asia, Europe, and South Asia stand out. China is expected to take the lead with 3.6 million visitors, followed by Malaysia with 2.6 million, and South Korea with one million. In a strategic move to attract Chinese tourists, the TAT is introducing “Nihao Month” in September. Celebrating 50 years of diplomatic relations between Thailand and China, this campaign will run until the end of the year in collaboration with five Chinese online travel platforms. “We’re also focusing on attracting meeting and incentive groups from India and participating in trade shows targeting the Middle East market,” Thapanee added. Additionally, the TAT is opening a new office in Chicago to address growing demand from the Midwest and Canada. Challenges and Competition Despite the optimism, several challenges loom. A sluggish Chinese economy and geopolitical tensions such as the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza present potential risks. Thailand also faces stiff competition from neighbouring countries like China, Japan, Vietnam, and Malaysia, which have eased visa restrictions and launched aggressive marketing campaigns to attract high-spending tourists. To bolster domestic tourism, the TAT has organised campaigns and events across Thailand's five regions. However, high travel costs, especially fuel prices, remain a significant hurdle. “High travel costs, especially fuel prices, might influence travel decisions among local tourists,” Thapanee noted. With these efforts, Thailand hopes to meet and perhaps exceed its ambitious tourism revenue targets for the year. Grand Palace Bangkok. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-08-14 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Probe Urged into Chinese-Operated Car Rental Service in Phuket Picture courtesy of Thai PBS via Line Democrat Party deputy leader Chaichana Detdecho has called on the Royal Thai Police and the Land Transport Department to scrutinise a car rental service allegedly run by "grey" Chinese businessmen in Phuket. The investigation is in response to mounting concerns from local Thai car rental operators. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335422-probe-urged-into-chinese-operated-car-rental-service-in-phuket/

Democrat Party deputy leader Chaichana Detdecho has called on the Royal Thai Police and the Land Transport Department to scrutinise a car rental service allegedly run by "grey" Chinese businessmen in Phuket. The investigation is in response to mounting concerns from local Thai car rental operators. Chaichana revealed today that multiple reports have been received from Thai car rental businesses on the island. They allege that Chinese businessmen have set up a similar service, using counterfeit license plates and employing Chinese drivers who lack proper driving licenses. Adding to these concerns, the Chinese operators are reportedly offering steep discounts, which may undercut and potentially obliterate the local Thai-operated rental services. Chaichana emphasised the urgency of the matter, warning that if authorities do not intervene promptly, tourism-related enterprises such as car rentals, tour agencies, and eateries, traditionally operated by Thai nationals, might increasingly come under Chinese control. He pointed to the example of Bangkok's Huai Khwang district, which now hosts numerous Chinese-owned restaurants and stores, suggesting a similar business infiltration could happen in Phuket, reported Thai PBS. The deputy leader also noted that Chinese businessmen have established a significant presence in Huai Khwang and are now expanding into the Banthat Thong area. This trend raises concerns about the economic impact on local businesses. Earlier this month, China’s prominent online retail platform, Temu, commenced operations in Thailand, directly challenging existing e-commerce giants Shopee and Lazada. Temu's strategy involves offering substantial discounts to attract Thai customers, capitalising on the relatively lax e-commerce regulations in Thailand. As the investigation unfolds, local operators and authorities await further developments, hoping to preserve the integrity of local businesses in the face of increasing foreign competition. Picture courtesy of Thai PBS via Line -- 2024-08-14 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Wednesday 14 August 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1335421-thailand-live-wednesday-14-august-2024/

Phuket's Tourism Boom Outstrips Infrastructure, Raises Environmental Concerns The rapid increase in tourism on the previously unspoiled island of Phuket is causing issues as infrastructure developments struggle to keep up. Road congestion and environmental damage are harming the island's image as a top-rated holiday destination. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335409-phukets-tourism-boom-outstrips-infrastructure-raises-environmental-concerns/

Thailand's new double-track railway on the State Railway of Thailand's south line, stretching from Nakhon Pathom to Chumphon, is now fully operational. The southern line's upgrade was officially announced on August 12 by the State Railway of Thailand (SRT). Thailand Begins Operation of New Double-Track Railway, Boosting Transport and Logistics Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335404-thailand-begins-operation-of-new-double-track-railway-boosting-transport-and-logistics/

Bangkok taxi driver slashes passenger’s head after overcharge (video) by Petch Petpailin Photo via DailyNews and Bright TV A shameful Thai taxi driver surrendered himself yesterday after trying to overcharge a passenger by 500 baht and subsequently attacking her with a knife on a footpath near Soi Lat Phrao 42/2 in the Huai Khwang district of Bangkok on Saturday, August 10. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335356-bangkok-taxi-driver-slashes-passenger’s-head-after-overcharge-video/

A shameful Thai taxi driver surrendered himself yesterday after trying to overcharge a passenger by 500 baht and subsequently attacking her with a knife on a footpath near Soi Lat Phrao 42/2 in the Huai Khwang district of Bangkok on Saturday, August 10. The victim’s sister, 29 year old Supawadee Khamsa-nga, met with Ekkaphop Luangprasert, the founder of the non-profit organisation Saimai Survive, to seek justice for her elder sister, 43 year old Wanpen Khamsa-nga, who remains in the intensive care unit after being assaulted by the taxi driver, 50 year old Prapas Boonlang. Supawadee revealed to the organisation that Wanpen attended a birthday party, hosted by Itsaraporn Thonguraisakun, on Friday, August 9, though Supawadee did not attend. The party ended at about 1.40am on August 10, and Itsaraporn booked a taxi via an app to travel home. Itsaraporn and her Singaporean friend sat in the back seat while Wanpen sat in the front passenger seat next to the taxi driver. According to Itsaraporn, the driver became angry because he struggled to find the pickup location. He shouted and mumbled complaints during the journey at Wanpen, who was intoxicated. Wanpen then asked the driver to stop mid-journey because she felt the need to vomit. The driver complied with her request but continued to complain. Wanpen asked the driver to stop again to vomit but this time he handed her a plastic bag. Extra fee for vomit To avoid making the car dirty, Wanpen opened the window, leaned her head out, and vomited into the plastic bag. Itsaraporn insisted that her friend did not dirty the car at all. During the ride, the taxi driver demanded an additional 500 baht, claiming he had lost time by stopping for Wanpen to vomit. Wanpen and Itsaraporn refused to pay the extra charge because they did not make the car dirty. The two eventually negotiated to pay only 200 baht extra and requested the driver stop so they could get a new taxi. The fare was paid via the app using Itsaraporn’s credit card and they handed the driver 200 baht before getting out of the car. After they exited the vehicle, the driver followed them and unexpectedly slashed Wanpen’s head with a knife. He inflicted multiple cuts on her, ignoring the pleas from Itsaraporn and her foreign friend. Another taxi driver arrived at the scene and honked his horn, prompting the attacker to stop and flee in his taxi. Wanpen required over 20 stitches for the wounds to her head, and her skull was fractured. She also sustained cut wounds on her hands and arms, and her brain was bleeding. Supawadee and Itsaraporn filed an attempted murder complaint against the driver at Chokchai Police Station but the case made no progress. They tried to share the story on a Facebook group for Thai taxi drivers but the group’s administrator blocked their post. Stress and insult Saimai Survive founder Ekkaphop followed up on the case with officers at Chokchai Police Station and demanded that the driver’s taxi licence be revoked and that he be tested for drugs. The driver, Prapas, finally turned himself in to police yesterday. He claimed that he was offended when the passenger threw 200 baht in cash at him. He was also under stress trying to get money for his pregnant wife and two children. Prapas said he was sorry for what he had done and wanted to meet the victim at the hospital to apologise. The Daily News reported that officers had granted Prapas a temporary release and would file charges against him after a medical report on Wanpen’s injuries was released. by Petch Petpailin Photo via DailyNews and Bright TV Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-13 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe