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Bangkok Urged to Develop App for Safe, Fair Motorcycle Taxi Fares Picture courtesy: Matechon The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has been urged by a city council member to develop a new application for motorcycle taxis to ensure passenger safety and fair pricing. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333426-bangkok-urged-to-develop-app-for-safe-fair-motorcycle-taxi-fares/

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has been urged by a city council member to develop a new application for motorcycle taxis to ensure passenger safety and fair pricing. Viput Srivaurai, representing Bang Rak district, has called on the BMA to leverage technology and innovation to enhance motorcycle taxi services. He emphasised the need for a data management system that details drivers and their vehicles, ensuring a safe and reasonably priced ride-hailing service for Bangkok's residents and tourists. “This service would allow motorcycle taxi drivers to pay lower fees compared to those charged by platforms like Grab,” Viput commented. Bangkok governor Chadchart Sittipunt mentioned the BMA already maintains a database of motorcycle taxi services. This database includes service point locations, the number of drivers, their ID numbers, licence plate numbers, and fare structures. However, the Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA) currently bars this information from being publicly shared. With around 5,300 service points and 80,000 registered drivers, Bangkok's motorcycle taxi system is widely used. Yet, passengers often face issues such as service denial, unreasonable fares, and inappropriate behaviour from drivers, reported Bangkok Post. In related news, incidents involving motorcycle taxi drivers have surged in Pattaya City and Banglamung district, threatening the area's reputation as a tourist hotspot. Recent reports have highlighted assaults on foreign tourists and harassment of people misidentified as ride-hailing service drivers. These confrontations have sometimes escalated into violent encounters. Separately, a minor altercation between two road users in Bangkok turned into a dramatic road rage incident. A taxi driver collided with a motorcyclist, running him over multiple times and dragging his bike along the road for over a kilometre before crashing into a utility pole. The call for a safer, more regulated motorcycle taxi system in Bangkok highlights the capital's ongoing challenges and the need for swift, effective solutions. Picture courtesy: Matechon -- 2024-07-20 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Expats angry at huge concessions in latest Thai visa announcements By Barry Kenyon There are many ambiguities concerning the latest visa options. Longstay expats with expensive visas say the new 60 days visa-exempt policy and the 180 days Destination Thailand Visa have made the Elite visa and the annual extensions of stay for retirement and marriage worthless Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333424-expats-angry-at-huge-concessions-in-latest-thai-visa-announcements/

There are many ambiguities concerning the latest visa options. By Barry Kenyon Longstay expats with expensive visas say the new 60 days visa-exempt policy and the 180 days Destination Thailand Visa have made the Elite visa and the annual extensions of stay for retirement and marriage worthless. Geoffrey Fisher, a Brit who recently paid 900,000 baht (about 20,000 UK pounds) for the five year Elite visa said he had wasted his money as more or less anyone can now stay in Thailand almost indefinitely for a paltry sum. The disenchanted argue that the 60 days visa-exempt can evidently be extended at local immigration for 30 days more followed by a border run to start the whole process again. Some immigration officers at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi airport have allegedly told new arrivals they can now do as many border runs as they like. Separately, the five years and multi-entry Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) offers 180 days on entry for 10,000 baht (around 200 UK pounds) plus the chance to extend for a further 180 days. The process can then be repeated by briefly leaving the country. American expat Dan Silverman, who holds a yearly extension based on retirement, said, “It’s just ridiculous. I have to keep 800,000 baht in a Thai bank, obtain medical insurance, face ever-changing regulations and regularly report my Thai address throughout the year, or be fined.” He added, “And for what, when you can come and go as you please with the new visas?” Views such as this are currently being voiced widely on social media as expats digest the latest visa announcement. Full story: PATTAYA MAIL 2024-07-20 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Cousin of Chinese Man Suspected of Hiring Men to Rob Her Own Relative, Say Pattaya Police im Tanakorn Police officers believed that the Chinese men, who broke into the house of a Chinese man in Pattaya and unsuccessfully forced him to give them 10 million baht, had been hired by the Chinese man’s own cousin, originally reported as his sister, who was supposedly abducted. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333422-cousin-of-chinese-man-suspected-of-hiring-men-to-rob-her-own-relative-say-pattaya-police/

Police officers believed that the Chinese men, who broke into the house of a Chinese man in Pattaya and unsuccessfully forced him to give them 10 million baht, had been hired by the Chinese man’s own cousin, originally reported as his sister, who was supposedly abducted. On July 18th, 2024, a key witness, Mr. Aun (full name withheld upon request), a 30-year-old van driver, came forward to the Nongprue Police Station to report that he had been hired by four Chinese nationals to transport them from a Pattaya hotel to Suvarnabhumi International Airport. Mr. Aun was contacted by police after he was believed to have unknowingly helped transport Chinese people who broke into the house of Mr. Qian Peng Yi, 34, in Pattaya on July 17th. The men threatened Mr. Yi to give them 10 million baht in cash, stole his valuables, and also allegedly took his cousin. Mr. Yi, however, did not give them money because he managed to escape and seek help from the police. Mr. Aun denied any involvement in the robbery and stated that he took a picture of the group while they were smoking cigarettes at the airport entrance. Surprisingly, one of the individuals in the picture was a woman with short hair, who turned out to be the victim’s supposedly abducted cousin. im Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-07-20 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai PM Launches Project to Transform Thailand into Financial Hub Picture courtesy: Daily News Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin delivered a keynote address at the Finance Ministry's "Ignite Finance" Initiative on Friday, part of his "Ignite Thailand" vision to position the country as a global financial hub. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333420-thai-pm-launches-project-to-transform-thailand-into-financial-hub/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin delivered a keynote address at the Finance Ministry's "Ignite Finance" Initiative on Friday, part of his "Ignite Thailand" vision to position the country as a global financial hub. The "Ignite Finance" initiative seeks to propel Thailand onto the global financial stage with a strategic focus on banking, securities, derivatives, digital assets, and insurance. It aims to broaden financial accessibility for underserved communities and small businesses, fostering inclusive economic growth. Supported by three main pillars: **Future-Ready Regulation:** The Finance Ministry stresses the need for a flexible, transparent regulatory environment supporting investment. A proposed bill aims to streamline regulations into a unified system, offering streamlined processes for businesses within the financial sphere. **Next-Generation Incentives:** "Ignite Finance" aims to position Thailand as an attractive destination for financial institutions, embracing policies to facilitate foreign companies, including work visas, competitive tax structures, and strategic incentive programs. **Empowered Ecosystem:** The initiative will develop an advanced and transparent legal framework to support financial activities, building on Thailand’s pioneering digital asset laws. It also emphasises modern infrastructure to support businesses and enhance the quality of life for their employees, fostering continuous growth and innovation within the ecosystem, reported Bangkok Post. "Becoming a financial centre would change the economic structure without having to use an investment budget, and it will give enormous returns by attracting funds, people and knowledge to the country," Mr Srettha told the business event. At the event, Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul said Thailand is planning to introduce a new financial business law to attract foreign funds and facilitate investment in the sector. The law will create a 'one-stop authority' agency responsible for setting regulations and issuing licences for key financial areas to support Thailand's aim to become a global financial centre, he said. The government would put legislation to parliament later this year, he added. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-07-20 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Boy sleeping in Chiang Mai laundrette sparks action by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A young boy has drawn widespread attention after sleeping alone in a laundromat in the Chiang Mai province late at night. Concerned netizens expressed their desire to help the child, sparking a conversation about his welfare. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333418-boy-sleeping-in-chiang-mai-laundrette-sparks-action/

A young boy has drawn widespread attention after sleeping alone in a laundromat in the Chiang Mai province late at night. Concerned netizens expressed their desire to help the child, sparking a conversation about his welfare. Footage shared by TikTok user @suwatchareek captured the boy entering the laundromat around 3am and staying until 5am. “A little boy came to sleep in the shop until 5am. I don’t know what he’s been through, but I’m glad he felt safe here.” The incident occurred around 3.42am on July 16, when a boy in a yellow shirt was seen lying on the floor of a laundromat near Wat Si Ping Mueang in Chiang Mai. The shop owner, Botan, revealed that the boy left by 5am without tampering with anything in the shop. The next day at approximately 2am, the same boy returned with another, older child. They both slept on the floor until 5am again. Botan and her daughter, who reviewed the CCTV footage, were puzzled by the boy’s nocturnal visits and wondered why his parents were not looking for him. The shop operates 24 hours, and the boys seemed to come during the quietest times.

Over 2 million unregistered Thai mobile numbers suspended by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) suspended the services of over 2 million mobile phone numbers after their owners missed the identity registration deadline yesterday. This move aims to enhance security and reduce fraud related to unregistered mobile numbers. Full. story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333416-over-2-million-unregistered-thai-mobile-numbers-suspended/

The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) suspended the services of over 2 million mobile phone numbers after their owners missed the identity registration deadline yesterday. This move aims to enhance security and reduce fraud related to unregistered mobile numbers. The affected numbers are primarily linked to individuals possessing between six and 100 unregistered SIM cards. The suspension affects their ability to make calls, send SMS, and access the internet. NBTC Commissioner Police General Nathathorn Prousoontorn emphasised the importance of this action, stating that if the SIM cards are not registered within the next 30 to 45 days, the numbers will be permanently revoked and redistributed. The Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) recently tasked the NBTC with reviewing approximately 80 million mobile phone numbers associated with over 113 million mobile banking accounts. This measure is to ensure that the ownership of SIM cards matches the account holders, a process that is expected to be completed by the end of next month. “This initiative is crucial for national security and in combating fraudulent activities. We urge all mobile users to register their SIM cards promptly to avoid service disruption.” The NBTC’s suspension affects 2.14 million mobile numbers, a significant step in the ongoing effort to secure mobile communications and financial transactions. This measure highlights the Thai government’s commitment to tackling fraud and misuse of mobile services, reported Pattaya News. ORIGINAL STORY: NBTC suspends SIM cards to tackle call centre scams The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) of Thailand, in partnership with the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO), launched a significant operation aimed at regulating mobile banking and combating call centre scams. The initiative led to the suspension of 1,096,000 phone numbers registered to users holding more than 101 SIM cards. A member of the NBTC board, Police General Nathathorn Prousoontorn, alongside other high-ranking officials, convened a meeting to assess the progress in addressing call centre gang activities. During the meeting, they unveiled several key measures being implemented. One of the primary actions involves suspending unverified SIM cards. Users who have not verified their identities in accordance with NBTC regulations will have their services suspended. So far, NBTC has suspended 2,141,317 unverified SIM cards. Among these, 1,096,000 SIM cards were held by users possessing 101 or more SIM cards. The partnership also scrutinised fraudulent mobile banking SIM cards. NBTC received data from 21 banks through AMLO, covering 79 million bank accounts and 113,568,836 mobile banking phone numbers. This data is being analysed to ensure that SIM card owners match the bank account holders. The verification process is ongoing and expected to be completed by the end of July 2024. In addition, NBTC, in collaboration with the Royal Thai Police, is cracking down on illegal telecom signal towers installed along the border in five provinces: Tak, Chiang Rai, Sa Kaeo, Chanthaburi, and Ranong. These towers have been facilitating the operations of call centre scams. To date, 29 offenders have been prosecuted, reported Pattaya Mail. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-20 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai AirAsia X suspends Sydney-Bangkok route by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Karryon Australia Thai AirAsia X announced the suspension of its sole Australian route between Sydney and Bangkok, effective August 1. Despite the temporary halt, the airline assures it remains committed to the Australian market and plans a grand return in December with increased flights and enhanced connectivity. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333415-thai-airasia-x-suspends-sydney-bangkok-route/

Thai AirAsia X announced the suspension of its sole Australian route between Sydney and Bangkok, effective August 1. Despite the temporary halt, the airline assures it remains committed to the Australian market and plans a grand return in December with increased flights and enhanced connectivity. The decision to suspend services was driven by fleet management and operation hub movement. As part of a strategic shift, Thai AirAsia X will relocate all operations back to Bangkok’s Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) from October 1, moving away from Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK). To minimise disruption, Thai AirAsia X will reroute impacted Sydney-Bangkok flights via Kuala Lumpur, operated by AirAsia X Malaysia. Affected passengers can alter travel plans with free flight changes, flight credits worth the value of the flight plus 10%, or opt for full refunds. Notifications will be sent via email or SMS to direct bookers, while others should check their booking channels. Thai AirAsia X previously ceased flights to Melbourne and Brisbane in May 2023 and April 2020 respectively, leaving Sydney as its only Australian operation since December 2022. The move to Don Mueang is aimed at leveraging the extensive AirAsia network for better connectivity and easier access to central Bangkok. CEO Tassapon Bijleveld stated that the return of Thai AirAsia X to Don Mueang Airport is a homecoming. “We will join the strong AirAsia network, with over 40% domestic market share in Thailand and a vibrant international network.” Parent company AirAsia has been active in Australia and New Zealand, with new services from subsidiaries including Indonesia AirAsia’s Cairns-Bali route and AirAsia Malaysia’s flights to Perth. The group also plans to expand into Europe, North America, and Africa, reported Karryon. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Karryon Australia Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-20 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Persistent Chiang Mai gang arrested for bird food scam on tourists Photo of Ryan Turne Image courtesy of KhaoSod Police have detained members of a scammer gang at Tha Phae Gate, Chiang Mai, who were scamming tourists by selling bird food and charging them for photos, deemed to be damaging the area’s reputation as a tourist destination. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333413-persistent-chiang-mai-gang-arrested-for-bird-food-scam-on-tourists/

Police have detained members of a scammer gang at Tha Phae Gate, Chiang Mai, who were scamming tourists by selling bird food and charging them for photos, deemed to be damaging the area’s reputation as a tourist destination. Today, July 19, officers from the Tourist Police Division 2, led by Makara Srisakulpisut and Nithipat Bunmak, conducted a thorough inspection of the Tha Phae Gate area. They discovered individuals secretly selling bird food to tourists and then taking photos without consent before demanding payment. The two police officers consider this scam to have negatively impacted the tourism image of the area. Makara stated that this crackdown is part of Operation 10 Prohibited Groups, aimed at maintaining the safety and confidence of both Thai and international tourists in key economic and tourist areas. The operation is a response to directives from the Tourist Police Bureau to enhance the order and security of tourist destinations. Previously, local and Tourist Police had arrested similar scammers but the problem persisted. During the recent operation, three individuals were apprehended. The suspects included 55 year old Buyae from Chiang Rai, 35 year old Phetai from Nan, and 41 year old Rohani, a Chiang Mai native. They were charged with causing a public nuisance. The police confiscated bird food and bird-repelling equipment used in their scam. and the arrested individuals were taken to Muang Chiang Mai Police Station for further legal proceedings, reported KhaoSod. Known for its rich culture and historical sites, continues to attract tourists from around the world. The local police are determined to preserve the city’s charm and safety for all visitors. by Ryan Turne Image courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-20 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Drunk Thai Man Uses Scissors to Attack Taxi Rider Over Fare Picture via Thai Rath A harrowing incident in Nonthaburi, Thailand, has left a motorcycle taxi rider hospitalised after being stabbed by a drunken passenger. The altercation occurred on July 17th when 56-year-old Akkaraphon attacked the rider, identified as 44-year-old Thunya, to avoid paying the fare. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333412-drunk-thai-man-uses-scissors-to-attack-taxi-rider-over-fare/

A harrowing incident in Nonthaburi, Thailand, has left a motorcycle taxi rider hospitalised after being stabbed by a drunken passenger. The altercation occurred on July 17th when 56-year-old Akkaraphon attacked the rider, identified as 44-year-old Thunya, to avoid paying the fare. Thunya had driven Akkaraphon from Bang Bua Thong Market to a village near Bangkok. Upon arrival, Thunya requested the fare of 150 baht. Unexpectedly, Akkaraphon, reportedly intoxicated after consuming four bottles of beer, refused to pay. Instead, he suggested that Thunya collect the money at the end of the month. The situation quickly escalated as Akkaraphon suddenly stabbed Thunya in the neck with a pair of scissors. Police officers from Bang Bua Thong Police Station were promptly notified and hurried to the scene along with Poh Teck Tung Foundation rescue workers. Thunya was rushed to Bang Bua Thong Hospital, suffering from a serious neck wound on the left side. Despite the severe injury, he managed to leap from his motorcycle to avoid further attacks, causing Akkaraphon to fall. Locals and witnesses intervened, restraining Akkaraphon until law enforcement arrived. The assailant was subsequently taken to the police station for questioning. During his interrogation, Akkaraphon admitted to the stabbing, attributing his actions to his inebriated state. Thunya’s wife, 40-year-old Saranya, expressed her deep concern for her husband, who remained conscious but unable to communicate effectively. She emphasised that Thunya was the family's sole breadwinner and voiced relief that the attacker had been apprehended. Picture via Thai Rath -- 2024-07-20 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Certain Camps Trying To Manipulate Senators: Premsak By Thai Newsroom Reporters Senator Premsak Piayura. Photos: Thai Rath CERTAIN PARTIES HAVE BEEN covertly attempting to mastermind the control of some newly-elected senators whilst others may already have been submissive to them now that the naming of a Senate speaker is approaching, according to Senator Premsak Piayura. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333411-certain-camps-trying-to-manipulate-senators-premsak/

CERTAIN PARTIES HAVE BEEN covertly attempting to mastermind the control of some newly-elected senators whilst others may already have been submissive to them now that the naming of a Senate speaker is approaching, according to Senator Premsak Piayura. The senator from Khon Kaen today (July 19) alleged the unidentified parties of clandestinely attempting to manipulate the naming of a Senate speaker and deputy Senate speakers among some senators who could probably be more or less influenced whilst others may already have been swayed by those political camps, albeit in very discreet fashion. Without naming names, Premsak said all 200 senators are legally obliged to be practically, invariably free of partisan influence when it comes to the deliberation of legislations being passed from the House of Representatives and particularly the naming of a Senate speaker and deputy Senate speakers scheduled for the upcoming Tuesday. By Thai Newsroom Reporters Senator Premsak Piayura. Photos: Thai Rath Full story: THAI NEWSROOM 2024-07-20 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Senate Degree Scandal Exposes Thai Society’s Academic Title Obsession Keskamol Pleansamai. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath A recent scandal involving senatorial candidate Keskamol Pleansamai has shone a spotlight on the thriving market for fake academic degrees in Thailand, revealing the country's deep-rooted obsession with academic titles. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333410-senate-degree-scandal-exposes-thai-society’s-academic-title-obsession/

A recent scandal involving senatorial candidate Keskamol Pleansamai has shone a spotlight on the thriving market for fake academic degrees in Thailand, revealing the country's deep-rooted obsession with academic titles. Keskamol was found to have falsely claimed a doctoral degree and professorship, sparking an outcry and prompting an investigation into her qualifications. This case has brought renewed attention to a longstanding issue in Thai society: the ease with which individuals can purchase fake degrees to bolster their credibility and professional standing. The market for fake degrees is sophisticated. Numerous online services offer degrees from overseas institutions, complete with transcripts and graduation gowns. For an extra fee, buyers can even attend sham graduation ceremonies held in rented halls to add an air of legitimacy to their degrees. Assistant Professor Dr Singh Singhkhajorn, from Bansomdejchaopraya Rajabhat University, notes that "about 20 years ago, having a US degree was practically a guarantee of landing a job at a leading company. While many Thais rushed to study in the US, others used loopholes to procure degrees without really studying anything." Today, however, verifying a degree’s authenticity remains challenging despite advancements in information technology. Fake degrees have evolved from crude forgeries to more elaborate scams, where institutions issue seemingly legitimate credentials in return for a fee. In 2019, current agriculture minister Thamanat Prompow was also accused of possessing a fake doctoral degree. Though he survived the controversy, the incident underscored the pervasive nature of fake academic qualifications in Thai politics and business. Observers argue that Thailand's undue emphasis on academic titles drives this demand for fake credentials. Many professionals and public figures buy degrees to gain social respect and professional standing. “Actually, they may already have knowledge in their field, but many prominent figures want to look good so badly that they will pay for a degree,” explains Associate Professor Dr Weerachai Phutdhawong of the Coordinating Centre for Public Higher Education Staff. As the investigation into Keskamol's case unfolds, she risks disqualification, a potential prison term, and a long-term electoral ban if found guilty of misleading voters. This scandal could mark a turning point in how Thai society views and verifies academic achievements. Keskamol Pleansamai. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-07-20 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Austrian Rescued Trying to Jump From Hotel in Patong By Goongnang Suksawat Patong – An Intoxicated male Austrian has been rescued after he was trying to jump from a hotel in Patong. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333409-austrian-rescued-trying-to-jump-from-hotel-in-patong/

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Patong – An Intoxicated male Austrian has been rescued after he was trying to jump from a hotel in Patong. The Patong Police told the Phuket Express that earlier this week they were notified of the incident at a hotel in Patong. They rushed to the scene with rescue workers to find the 58 year-old male Austrian whose name was withheld for privacy reasons. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-07-20 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe If you or someone you know is feeling depressed please reach out for help. The Phuket Express suggests the Samaritans of Thailand which can be reached here: https://www.facebook.com/Samaritans.Thailand/