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Thailand's Deputy Minister of Finance Julapun Amornvivat insists that sales data from stores participating in the digital wallet programme will not be submitted to the Revenue Department, but stores must file taxes if their sales increase significantly. Julapun addressed concerns yesterday from merchants about joining the digital wallet programme due to tax issues. He assured that the Ministry of Finance would not send sales data from participating stores to the Revenue Department. However, if a store’s sales increase to a certain threshold, they are obligated to file taxes as usual. For instance, if a store’s annual sales increase from 100,000 to 200,000 baht to 1.8 to 1.9 million baht, they must correctly file value-added tax (VAT), said Julapun. “We cannot force anyone to participate, but no one should miss this opportunity. The programme will circulate over 1 trillion baht within the system, providing a chance for all stores to increase their sales. Meanwhile, the government will educate merchants about the tax system, which is not as daunting as it seems. Once they join, they can deduct various expenses.” Julapun highlighted that preparations are underway but some merchants are not ready. For example, certain enterprises have not fully registered with the relevant supervisory agencies. Efforts are being made to complete their registrations so they can join the programme without issues. Overall, the response has been positive. Initially, 40,000 to 50,000 small business representatives were expected to show interest, but hundreds of thousands have already expressed their willingness to join. The postponement of the digital wallet registration announcement for merchants was merely to avoid confusion, as the registration for citizens is currently ongoing. Julapun also mentioned that the proposal for the digital wallet programme will not be presented at the Cabinet meeting today. There is still time to submit the proposal for Cabinet approval before the budget is utilised. The overlapping budget can be established, and this has been clarified several times. Civil servants have confirmed that it is feasible, reported KhaoSod. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-07 - 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

Tesla Cancels Plan for EV Factory in Thailand Tesla factory. File photo courtesy: The Nation Electric vehicle giant Tesla has scrapped its plans to establish a manufacturing plant in Thailand. This development comes as part of a broader strategic shift impacting their global expansion plans outside of key hubs in China, the U.S., and Germany. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334850-tesla-cancels-plan-for-ev-factory-in-thailand/

Electric vehicle giant Tesla has scrapped its plans to establish a manufacturing plant in Thailand. This development comes as part of a broader strategic shift impacting their global expansion plans outside of key hubs in China, the U.S., and Germany. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin had announced Tesla's intended investment of over $5 billion to make Thailand a hub for its EV manufacturing. The announcement followed several high-level meetings between Tesla executives and Thai officials, both in Thailand and the United States. Notably, the PM and senior officials toured Tesla's Fremont Factory in California during the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in November of the previous year. During these meetings, Tesla executives, including Rohan Patel, surveyed potential factory sites in Thailand. With much optimism, the investment was expected to be formalised in the first quarter of this year. However, the Prime Minister’s Office has now confirmed that Tesla will instead focus solely on developing charging infrastructure in the region. “Tesla is currently only discussing charging stations, with the factory plans suspended not just in Thailand but worldwide. They are not proceeding in Malaysia, Indonesia, or anywhere else except for China, America, and Germany,” said a Government House source, reported Nation Thailand. The decision comes amid broader uncertainties in Tesla's international projects. Previously, Tesla announced the halting of its Gigafactory plans in Mexico, citing economic concerns and political uncertainties related to U.S. trade policies. This Gigafactory, meant to be constructed near Monterrey, was first revealed in March last year but has faced multiple delays and is now paused until further notice. The shift away from a factory in Thailand mirrors Tesla's reevaluation of investment strategies in several regions. The layoffs of a team of Tesla executives who had visited Thailand late last year add more weight to this strategic pivot. While this move represents a significant shift for Tesla’s plans in Southeast Asia, it underscores the company’s adaptability and focus on consolidating its resources where they are likely to have the most substantial impact. Tesla factory. File photo courtesy: The Nation -- 2024-08-07 - 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 7 August 2024 Thailand’s Constitutional Court will rule today on whether the Move Forward Party should be dissolved after it proposed to amend the les Majeste law.. A petition to the court requested the party’s dissolution and a 10-year ban on political activity by its executives, including former chief Pita Lim-jaroenrat. Move Forward won the most seats in last years election, but was blocked from taking power and now heads the opposition. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334849-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-wednesday-7-august-2024/

Thailand’s Constitutional Court will rule today on whether the Move Forward Party should be dissolved after it proposed to amend the les Majeste law.. A petition to the court requested the party’s dissolution and a 10-year ban on political activity by its executives, including former chief Pita Lim-jaroenrat. Move Forward won the most seats in last years election, but was blocked from taking power and now heads the opposition. Former red-shirt leader Jatuporn Prompan was sentenced to five years in prison yesterday for breaching national security by exposing a confidential government report. The charge stated he released a report marked "top secret," which detailed the Foreign Ministry’s strategy and guidelines for dealing with Cambodia. Jatuporn was released on 250,000 baht bail pending appeal. Tesla has scrapped plans to set up an electric vehicle manufacturing plant in Thailand and will focus solely on charging stations, The decision follows the layoffs of a team of Tesla executives who visited Thailand last year. The company had plans to expand into Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia, but will now focus on car production in China, America, and Germany," The Transport Ministry has confirmed it will introduce a flat fare of 20 baht for all Skytrain lines by September next year, The Department of Rail Transport revealed that passengers numbers on the Red and Purple line had increased by around 26% since a 20 baht flat fare was introduced to both lines. Around the region Bangladesh's Nobel-winning microfinance pioneer Muhammad Yunus has been tipped to lead an interim government after mass protests forced longtime ruler Sheikh Hasina to flee the country. Todays Weather Chiang Mai and the north: Thundershowers 32C degrees celsius Bangkok: Cloudy with some Thundershowers 33 Pattaya: Thundershowers 32 Phuket and the south: Thundershowers 29 HuaHin: Bright start becoming cloudy with showers this afternoon 32 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 2024-08-07 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Foreign Envoys Criticised for 'Undiplomatic Meeting' with Thai Opposition' Foreign envoys. Photo courtesy: Thai Rath Former Democratic MPs have criticised a recent meeting between core members of Thailand's Move Forward party and foreign envoys as diplomatically inappropriate and an attempt to interfere in Thailand’s internal affairs. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334843-foreign-envoys-criticised-for-undiplomatic-meeting-with-thai-opposition/

Former Democratic MPs have criticised a recent meeting between core members of Thailand's Move Forward party and foreign envoys as diplomatically inappropriate and an attempt to interfere in Thailand’s internal affairs. Rachada Dhnadirek, a former Bangkok MP, urged the government, particularly the Foreign Ministry, to react immediately to protect Thailand’s dignity and interests. “How can the Foreign Ministry allow the foreign envoys to receive only one-sided information? The ministry should respond to the matter,” she said. Pita Limjaroenrat, the former leader of the Move Forward party, met with senior foreign diplomats, mostly from European countries, on August 2 at the residence of the German Ambassador to Thailand, reported THai PBS. Pita expressed gratitude for the invitation and acknowledged the presence of envoys from Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Spain, and Sweden. The meeting took place as the Move Forward party awaited the Constitutional Court’s ruling on a petition filed by the Election Commission to disband the party over its proposal to amend the lèse majesté law. Party leader Chaithawat Tulathon also attended the meeting. Rachada warned that foreign envoys should be careful, as their actions could be seen as interference in Thailand’s judicial process. She criticised their supportive gestures as undiplomatic and detrimental to diplomatic relations. “Thailand has never acted in a way that disrespects other countries’ justice systems. Other countries should adhere to the same norm,” she said. Warong Dechgitvigrom, leader of the Thai Pakdee party, similarly described the meeting as an attempt to pressure the Constitutional Court and interfere in Thai politics. “Please don’t forget that Thailand is a sovereign country with its own laws,” he said. Thai netizens were divided in their reactions. Some supported the foreign diplomats and agreed with the meeting, while others echoed Warong’s view, criticising the envoys’ actions as undiplomatic and controversial. Foreign envoys. Photo courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-08-07 - 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

Ex-Red-Shirt Leader Jatuporn Jailed for Security Breach Jatuporn Prompan. File photo courtesy: Bright TV Former leader of the Red-Shirt movement, Jatuporn Prompan, has been sentenced to five years in prison for compromising national security. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334842-ex-red-shirt-leader-jatuporn-jailed-for-security-breach/

Jatuporn Prompan. File photo courtesy: Bright TV Former leader of the Red-Shirt movement, Jatuporn Prompan, has been sentenced to five years in prison for compromising national security. The Criminal Court found Jatuporn guilty of disclosing a top-secret report from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs back in 2009, during a time of heightened tensions between Thailand and Cambodia. On December 17th, 2009, Jatuporn shared the confidential report, which contained sensitive information regarding Thailand’s diplomatic strategies towards Cambodia, on the People’s Channel, a media platform linked to the Red-Shirt movement. The Red-Shirts, officially known as the United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD), have been a vocal critic of the Thai government, particularly under then-Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva. The prosecution argued that the leak put Thailand at a distinct disadvantage diplomatically and caused significant damage to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Moreover, the disclosure was said to have the potential to sow discord between Thailand and Cambodia. In his defence, Jatuporn maintained that he did not intend to harm national security. He asserted that his actions were a defensive response to accusations from Prime Minister Abhisit’s government, which alleged that the Red-Shirt movement aimed to overthrow the administration. Despite his defence, the court deemed Jatuporn’s actions a serious breach of national security and handed down the five-year sentence without suspension. Following the verdict, Jatuporn was released on bail set at 250,000 baht pending an appeal. The court noted his clean record of not attempting to flee as a factor in granting bail. This case has amplified ongoing political tensions in Thailand, highlighting the delicate balance between political activism and national security. As the appeal process unfolds, the nation remains on edge, anticipating further developments. -- 2024-08-07 - 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 7 August 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1334840-thailand-live-wednesday-7-august-2024/

Thai Police Commission Validates Decision to Dismiss Police General Surachate Hakparn Photo: The Pattaya News On August 6, 2024, Thawatchai Thaikhiew, a deputy spokesperson of the Police Civil Service Commission (PCSC), shared on Facebook that the dismissal of Police General Surachate Hakparn, also known as "Big Joke," was upheld. Hakparn was earlier suspended from his duties. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334823-thai-police-commission-validates-decision-to-dismiss-police-general-surachate-hakpar/

On August 7, 2024, Thailand's Constitutional Court is set to give a definitive judgement on the request of the Election Commission to disband the Move Forward Party (MFP). This follows a complaint made by Thirayuth Suwankaesoorn against the MFP's campaigning to change Section 112 of the Penal Code. Thailand's Constitutional Court to Decide on Move Forward Party's Dissolution on August Photo: The Pattaya News Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334824-thailands-constitutional-court-to-decide-on-move-forward-partys-dissolution-on-august-7/

Brutal assault on Canadian raises serious questions about tourist safety in Pattaya By Pattaya Mail A brutal assault on Canadian national Mr Mark Robert Westendorf in Pattaya’s Soi 6 casts a shadow over the city’s tourist reputation. Mr Westendorf is in critical condition, while his wife, Mrs Nongyao Panraksa, pleads for justice. PATTAYA, Thailand – A brutal assault on a Canadian national in Pattaya’s infamous Soi 6 has cast a dark shadow over the city’s reputation as a tourist destination. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334767-brutal-assault-on-canadian-raises-serious-questions-about-tourist-safety-in-pattaya/

A brutal assault on Canadian national Mr Mark Robert Westendorf in Pattaya’s Soi 6 casts a shadow over the city’s tourist reputation. Mr Westendorf is in critical condition, while his wife, Mrs Nongyao Panraksa, pleads for justice. PATTAYA, Thailand – A brutal assault on a Canadian national in Pattaya’s infamous Soi 6 has cast a dark shadow over the city’s reputation as a tourist destination. On the night of July 31, Mr Mark Robert Westendorf, a 65-year-old former oil company manager, was viciously attacked by men dressed as bouncers. Now, he lies in critical condition in a private hospital’s ICU, while his wife, Mrs Nongyao Panraksa, pleads for justice. This incident is not just a random act of violence but a glaring indictment of the safety conditions in Pattaya’s entertainment zones. According to Mrs Panraksa, her husband had gone out to socialize, only to end up fighting for his life after being brutally assaulted. Witnesses reported that Mr Westendorf was attacked after leaning against a vehicle, with an argument escalating to violence when one of the so-called bouncers struck him, causing him to fall and sustain a severe head injury. By Pattaya Mail Full story: The Pattaya Mail 2024-08-06 - 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

Passengers trapped on ‘sauna’ jet on London to Bangkok flight (video) by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of ViralPress The Boeing 777, operated by Thai Airways (THAI), was set to depart on Thursday, July 25 but never left the ground due to a malfunctioning air conditioning system. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334761-passengers-trapped-on-‘sauna’-jet-on-london-to-bangkok-flight-video/

The Boeing 777, operated by Thai Airways (THAI), was set to depart on Thursday, July 25 but never left the ground due to a malfunctioning air conditioning system. Video footage captured the chaotic scene aboard flight TG 917 as hundreds of travellers fanned themselves to stay cool. Warawalan Maksaen, a 26 year old University of Exeter student, described the unbearable conditions. “People were stuck on the plane and couldn’t leave. We were hot and couldn’t breathe. At least in a sauna, you can leave when you want. This was like a form of torture.” Scheduled for a 9.25pm take-off, the flight was delayed when the captain announced the air conditioning issue. Passengers remained trapped inside until 11pm without food or water. “Someone had a panic attack. A flight attendant finally brought water and opened the door for fresh air.” With Heathrow’s curfew preventing technicians from fixing the problem, the flight was rescheduled for the next day. Passengers faced a grim choice: sleep at the airport or take a bus to find a hotel. Warawalan and others waited until 2am for transportation, only to discover the airline-provided hotel had just eight rooms. Groups and families were prioritised, leaving solo travellers like Warawalan to fend for themselves. Finally securing accommodation at 3am, Warawalan returned to the airport the next afternoon, only to face further delays. Despite assurances that the air conditioning was fixed, the plane’s engine wouldn’t start. Passengers reboarded at 6.49pm after another agonising wait, reported Daily Mail UK. “I was so disappointed by THAI. Their service was appalling. I’ve received a compensation offer but never want to fly with them again. Foreign passengers were extremely disappointed, and their first impression of Thailand was ruined.” by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of ViralPress Source: Daily Mail 2024-08-06 - 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

Search for British tourist who disappeared at Bangkok airport by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Sun UK A 27 year old British tourist embarked on a dream holiday to Thailand but has mysteriously vanished, leaving his loved ones in a state of despair. Simon Robinson jetted off to Thailand on July 22, planning to soak up the Sun until August 3. However, just days into his trip, he phoned his girlfriend on July 26, announcing his early return. That call was the last anyone heard from him. According to The Lincolnite, Robinson, who spends much of his time in Boston, Lincolnshire, UK, never boarded his flight despite his phone pinging near Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi International Airport. Since that fateful call, his phone has been switched off, and his whereabouts remain unknown. Friends and family are now frantically raising awareness to initiate a search effort. South Yorkshire police have confirmed that Simon’s case has been reported, though they have not launched a missing persons appeal. The Foreign Office has stated it is ready to assist any British national abroad. In a heartfelt Facebook post, the missing Brit’s sister, Sarah Robinson Dale, expressed her anguish. “I am going out of my mind here. I am receiving hundreds of messages and don’t have time to reply to them all. I am thankful for everyone’s support and sharing.” Dale urged anyone in Bangkok to contact the police if they see her brother and encouraged people in other countries to keep sharing his picture. “As soon as I have any information, I will update on here. Forever grateful, let’s get Simon home.” Dale was due to speak with the British embassy in Thailand yesterday. Robinson’s friend, Sam Champ, also took to social media to spread the word. “One of my dear friends has gone missing in Bangkok, he hasn’t been heard from since July 26. He was supposed to board a flight that day but he didn’t show up. It was his 27th birthday yesterday and everyone is growing very concerned. He has been reported as a missing person.” Champ attached a picture of his friend, urging people in Bangkok and other parts of Thailand to share the post to help locate his friend, reported The Sun UK. Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-06 - 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 to amend domestic violence law amid rising abuse by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of iPleaders Thailand is set to amend its anti-domestic violence law in response to rising concerns about household abuse. The Ministry of Social Development and Human Security is spearheading this revision, citing the increasing fragility of Thai society. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334758-thailand-to-amend-domestic-violence-law-amid-rising-abuse/

Thailand is set to amend its anti-domestic violence law in response to rising concerns about household abuse. The Ministry of Social Development and Human Security is spearheading this revision, citing the increasing fragility of Thai society. Minister Varawut Silpa-archa announced that a primary focus of the ministry’s recent monthly meeting was the amendment of the Victims of Domestic Violence Protection Act, BE 2550. This move stems from alarming data collected by the Human Security Emergency Management Centre (HuSEC). HuSEC’s reports indicate that financial struggles, family disputes, and domestic violence consistently rank as the most reported issues each month. Varawut explained that the deteriorating economic situation, combined with other stressors, has led to a surge in violence affecting individuals of all ages, from toddlers to the elderly. “The ministry is urgently pushing for this amendment to promote domestic stability.” Varawut emphasised that the revised law aims to protect all family members, regardless of gender, and to support the creation of resilient households. “A strong family unit can prevent a range of social issues. Addressing domestic violence effectively can help mitigate problems like juvenile delinquency, homelessness, and begging.” The draft amendment has successfully passed a central hearing and is currently under review by an amendment committee. Varawut noted that the proposal is scheduled to be presented to the Cabinet in September and, if approved, will be published in the Royal Gazette thereafter. The ministry’s initiative reflects a broader commitment to safeguarding vulnerable populations and ensuring a more stable and secure societal framework, reported Bangkok Post. In June, Varawut intensified efforts to curb domestic violence, highlighting the issue as a major concern in recent months. Domestic violence constituted almost 70% of all reported violence cases this year. Varawut announced the news following a meeting with senior ministry officials, that the Human Security Emergency Management Centre is ramping up its initiatives to safeguard citizens facing domestic challenges. This includes establishing a 24/7 rapid deployment task force to assist people nationwide. by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of iPleaders Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-06 - 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

British Man, 27, Vanishes in Thailand Before Flight Home Simon Robinson Did Not Board His Flight Home On July 26. Handout A Brit, 27-year-old Simon Robinson from Skegness, Lincolnshire, has mysteriously disappeared in Thailand just before he was due to board a flight back to the UK. His family have made an urgent plea for any sightings, fearing for his safety. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334755-british-man-27-vanishes-in-thailand-before-flight-home/

Simon Robinson Did Not Board His Flight Home On July 26. Handout. Courtesy: The Standard A Brit, 27-year-old Simon Robinson from Skegness, Lincolnshire, has mysteriously disappeared in Thailand just before he was due to board a flight back to the UK. His family have made an urgent plea for any sightings, fearing for his safety. Simon was holidaying in the southeast Asian country, having arrived on July 22nd. He was originally due to return on August 3rd but decided to change his flight to an earlier date, July 26th. Alarmingly, it is reported that he did not board his flight home from Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Bangkok on that day. According to the Bangkok Post, a trace of Simon's mobile phone signal confirmed he was in Bangkok just five minutes before he was expected to reach the airport. However, the signal either ceased or was deliberately turned off at that critical moment. Concern escalated dramatically when Simon’s phone was switched off after a call to his girlfriend, who lives in Boston. He had spoken to her on July 26th, assuring her of his return. This abrupt end to communication has deeply troubled his friends and family. Simon’s family has wasted no time in seeking help. They contacted the British embassy in Bangkok and have widely spread the word via social media, hoping that someone, somewhere, might have seen him or have any helpful information. His sister, Sarah Robinson Dale from Barnsley, emphasised that this behaviour is completely out of character for Simon. She has been tirelessly urging anyone with information to come forward and report it to the police. “I am thankful for everyone’s support and sharing. All anyone can do at the moment is, if you are in Bangkok and see him, contact the police or ask Simon to call me. If you’re in another country, just keep sharing the picture,” she posted on Facebook, reported the UK Standard. The family remains hopeful but gravely concerned as time continues to pass without any news. -- 2024-08-06 - 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 - Tuesday 6 August 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334746-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-tuesday-6-august-2024/

The government plans to invest half-trillion-baht in water management over the next three years to enhance water security. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin expressed concern and urged agencies to create an effective plan. Significant portions of the annual budget go towards aiding flood victims and compensation. The Office of the National Water Resources has been tasked with drafting this three-year water security plan. The Transport Ministry has ordered a feasibility study on relocating Bangkok Port from Klong Toey to reduce pollution and traffic. A Bangkok North University poll of 2,500 residents found over 70% support for the move. The area would be redeveloped and feature office buildings, smart community residences, medical facilities, retail and exhibition spaces, a sports complex, and a park. the Office of Transport Planning, says The Southern Land Bridge megaproject will proceed after companies in China the UAE, and the U.S have expressed interest to invest. Construction is due to begin in 2026 until 2030. The Land Bridge will offer an alternative shipping route between the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea, and includes two deep-sea ports in Chumphon and Ranong, connected by a motorway and railway. The Royal Thai Army has said an incident where senior army officers allegedly ordered over ten trainee soldiers to stand naked in the rain for more than five hours and then beat and kicked them was being investigated. The incident took place last thursday and was reported on a facebook page by the sister of one of the young soldiers, The Army said it had established committees to look into the case but gave no further details. Around the region. Myanmar’s junta has lost communications with senior officers at a major military base near the Chinese border, after rebel forces announced they had taken control of the key regional army headquarters. The group posted photographs of its troops at the military stronghold following weeks of intense fighting. Todays Weather Chiang Mai and the north: Thundershowers 31C degrees celsius Bangkok: Cloudy with some Thundershowers 33 Pattaya: Sunny partly cloudy 31 Phuket and the south: Thundershowers 29 Hua Hin: Bright start becoming cloudy with rain this afternoon 32 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 2024-08-06 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai PM Assures Nation on Blackchin Tilapia Spread Control Picture courtesy: NNT Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin expressed confidence today that the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives would effectively manage the spread of blackchin tilapia, addressing growing concerns about the invasive species. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334745-thai-pm-assures-nation-on-blackchin-tilapia-spread-control/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin expressed confidence today that the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives would effectively manage the spread of blackchin tilapia, addressing growing concerns about the invasive species. The PM made these comments during a water management meeting at the Royal Irrigation Department in Bangkok's Dusit district. Blackchin tilapia, originally from West Africa, has increasingly posed a threat to Thailand’s aquatic ecosystems. Its rapid reproduction and adaptability to various environments have caused alarm amongst environmentalists and local fishermen. Flooding and water overflows, particularly during the rainy season, risk further dispersing the species into uncharted territories. Srettha outlined how the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives has developed a robust strategy to handle the situation. This plan comprises immediate containment efforts, medium-term monitoring, and long-term ecological management. "We are prepared and proactive in our approach to ensure this species does not jeopardise our native biodiversity," he assured. The Prime Minister highlighted the importance of local community involvement and education in combating the spread. Awareness campaigns and training programmes are set to be rolled out, empowering communities to recognise and report sightings of the invasive fish. Dr. Nirat Trakulthong, head of the Ministry’s Department of Fisheries, also attended the meeting, emphasising the collaborative approach between government departments and local authorities. "Our focus is on preventing further spread while assessing the impact on livelihoods and native species," he stated. Environmental experts warn that if left unregulated, blackchin tilapia could outcompete indigenous fish, disrupt local ecosystems, and potentially impact the fishing industry. However, Srettha's address today aimed to calm anxieties by highlighting the government's firm grasp on the issue and their detailed plan to manage it. In summary, while the blackchin tilapia presents a real and present threat, the government’s coordinated efforts appear poised to mitigate its spread and protect Thailand’s rich aquatic diversity. Picture courtesy: NNT -- 2024-08-06 - 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