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Thailand’s DDC issues health alert on rising eye infections due to contaminated tap water An image of an Acanthamoeba | Photo by CDC/ Dr. George Healy taken from Wikipedia The Department of Disease Control (DDC) has issued a public health alert following the discovery of a conjunctivitis outbreak affecting 200 residents in a condominium complex in the Lardphrao area in Bangkok. Investigations have revealed the presence of the parasite Acanthamoeba in the tap water supply within the condominium units. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332813-thailand’s-ddc-issues-health-alert-on-rising-eye-infections-due-to-contaminated-tap-water/

The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) announced a public consultation from today, July 12, until July 26 to discuss the final electricity tariff adjustment of the year. The proposed adjustments could see electricity bills rise from September to December this year, with costs potentially increasing from 4.18 baht per unit to between 4.65 and 6.01 baht per unit. Shocking surge: Thai electricity tariffs set to spark debate Image courtesy of KhaoSod Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332800-shocking-surge-thai-electricity-tariffs-set-to-spark-debate/

BREAKING: Thailand to waive visa requirements for tourists from 93 countries starting July 15 By Online Reporter Foreign tourists arrive at Suvarnabhumi Airport. File photo The Ministry of Interior has confirmed that Thailand will waive visa requirements for tourists from 93 countries starting July 15, 2024, in an effort to boost tourism and ease travel restrictions. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332785-thailand-to-waive-visa-requirements-for-tourists-from-93-countries-starting-july-15/

The Ministry of Interior has confirmed that Thailand will waive visa requirements for tourists from 93 countries starting July 15, 2024, in an effort to boost tourism and ease travel restrictions. This expansion, up from the current 57 countries, was announced by Traisulee Traisoranakul, secretary to the Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, on Friday. The new regulation will allow visitors to stay in Thailand for up to 60 days without a visa. Additionally, the number of countries and territories whose citizens require a visa upon arrival will increase from 19 to 31. In a further move to attract skilled workers, a new “workcation” visa called the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) will be introduced. This visa will permit qualified foreign professionals to stay and work in Thailand for up to 180 days at a time. The new visa measures, which are awaiting Cabinet approval, are expected to be a formality, according to Traisulee. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

13 year old Thai boy dies after ketamine injection by his friends by Petch Petpailin Photo via KomChadLuek The family of a 13 year old Thai boy suspected his friends of killing him with a poisonous kratom drink. The teenager’s friends later confessed to giving the victim an injection of ketamine, which led to his death. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332783-13-year-old-thai-boy-dies-after-ketamine-injection-by-his-friends/

The family of a 13 year old Thai boy suspected his friends of killing him with a poisonous kratom drink. The teenager’s friends later confessed to giving the victim an injection of ketamine, which led to his death. The teenager, Akkarawat “Tigger” Phonlasen, was found lying lifeless on the sofa in his home in Bangkok on the morning of July 7. He had foam around his mouth and his body was covered with vomit stains. His family performed CPR and called medical workers to the scene but Tigger could not be saved. Tigger’s aunt, Palita, told KomChadLuek that Tigger left home on the evening of July 6, saying he was going to a barbecue restaurant with friends and arrived home at about 9pm. He then lay on the sofa and fell asleep. Palita said she heard Tigger snoring louder than usual, so she went to check on him. She thought Tigger was exhausted and sleepy, so she gave him a blanket before going to sleep, only to wake up to see his lifeless body. With foam around his mouth, the family suspected that Tigger must have consumed something poisonous, which led to his death. They checked his mobile phone and conversations with his friends, discovering that Tigger attended a kratom party, not a barbecue. Ketamine overdose In a conversation with an older male friend, Tigger asked the friend to bring him a kratom drink. This made the family suspect that this friend and the kratom drink might be involved in Tigger’s death. Aside from the conversation about kratom, the friend also sent Tigger a picture of a gun. The gun was placed on a table, together with a syringe that was supposedly for drug use, making the family suspect a conflict between Tigger and his friends. The family decided to seek help from non-profit organisation Saimai Survive to follow up on the case. The family wanted the police to conduct an autopsy on Tigger’s body to see if there were any toxic substances in his system. The family then contacted Tigger’s friends to ask about the situation at the party. The friends initially revealed that they gave Tigger the kratom drink but then eventually confessed that they also injected him with ketamine. Tigger’s family filed a complaint against the friends, accusing them of intentional murder. The police planned to summon all the friends for questioning. If the police find that Tigger was willing to take the drug, the friends may face a lesser charge. by Petch Petpailin Photo via KomChadLuek Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-12 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Meatball mishap prompts prosecutors to grill Buriram thief by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Prosecutors have called for additional investigation into a case involving the theft of grilled meatballs, which were stolen out of desperation to cook for a man’s children and to share with his elderly, ill parents. This case raises concerns about whether it should be classified as a non-beneficial prosecution. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332777-meatball-mishap-prompts-prosecutors-to-grill-buriram-thief/

Prosecutors have called for additional investigation into a case involving the theft of grilled meatballs, which were stolen out of desperation to cook for a man’s children and to share with his elderly, ill parents. This case raises concerns about whether it should be classified as a non-beneficial prosecution. The Lawyers Council of Thailand offered assistance, noting that the crime stemmed from hunger and basic survival needs. The incident occurred yesterday, July 11, when the owner of a grilled meatball company submitted CCTV footage to the police in Buriram province, showing a man stealing one of two bags of meatballs worth 300 baht left unattended outside the shop. The police subsequently arrested 50 year old Thong who confessed to the crime, stating he saw the meatballs unattended and the shop was closed. Thong explained that he took the meatballs to fry them as a meal for his children and to give some to his sick, elderly parents. This situation quickly gained attention on social media, where many expressed sympathy for him. Although the shop owner has withdrawn the complaint, the police insist that the case must proceed because it involves a non-compoundable criminal offence that cannot be settled privately. The Deputy Spokesperson of the Office of the Attorney General, Nakhon Thongpairawan, revealed that the provincial prosecutor has instructed the investigators to conduct further inquiries under the Criminal Procedure Code Section 143, focusing on the facts and motivations behind the crime. This delay means the case could not be filed within the 48-day remand period, leading to Thong’s temporary release. Nakhon also noted that if it is determined that Thong’s meatball theft was acted out of dire poverty and has no prior criminal record, the case might be deemed non-beneficial to prosecute. The decision to dismiss the case would rest solely with the Attorney General under Section 21 of the Public Prosecutor Act. Constitutional rights Meanwhile, the President of the Lawyers Council of Thailand under the Royal Patronage, Wichian Chubtaisong stated that he has been closely monitoring the case and views it as a matter of constitutional rights and freedoms. He has appointed lawyer Chakrit Yangnok, an advisor to the President of the Lawyers Council, to liaise with local officials in Lam Plai Mat district, Buriram province. Additionally, lawyer Wuttikarn Kulsuwan, President of the Buriram Province Lawyers Council, has been directed to coordinate with the Buriram Provincial Court to gather accurate information regarding Thong’s detention without bail or temporary release. The court has permitted temporary release but requires a guarantor or relative to sign a release contract. Should Thong fail to appear in court or flee, a penalty of 75,000 baht must be paid. However, Thong has been unable to find a guarantor or provide the required security, leading to his continued detention. Tomorrow marks the end of Thong’s remand period, and the President of the Nang Rong District Lawyers Council, Vithaya Watthana will visit him in prison to offer legal assistance and support, reported KhaoSod. by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-12 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

UPDATE: Pattaya residents sin-sitively slam ‘Sin City’ slur by Petch Petpailin Photo by Tiwakorn Kritmanee and Montira Pengrat via Facebook/ ของดีประเทศไทย Pattaya residents hit out to defend their city’s image after a major Thai news outlet referred to Pattaya as “Sin City” and a “Paradise of Prostitutes” in a recent headline. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332758-pattaya-residents-unite-to-defend-dignity-against-sin-city-media-reports/?do=findComment&comment=19058333

Pattaya residents sin-sitively slam ‘Sin City’ slur by Petch Petpailin Photo by Tiwakorn Kritmanee and Montira Pengrat via Facebook/ ของดีประเทศไทย Pattaya residents hit out to defend their city’s image after a major Thai news outlet referred to Pattaya as “Sin City” and a “Paradise of Prostitutes” in a recent headline. One of the biggest Thai news agencies, ThaiRath, recently published an article with the alleged offensive headline this week. It sparked criticism from Thai netizens, particularly those living in Pattaya. In response, a group of local business owners and residents rallied on Pattaya Walking Street last night, July 11. Representatives led the protest from various local organisations, including the Pattaya Nightlife Business Association, the Pattaya Business and Tourism Association, and the Pattaya Walking Street Community. They held signs that read “Save Pattaya,” “Stop damaging Pattaya,” and “Unethical media.” Lisa Hamilton, President of the Pattaya Nightlife Business Association, expressed concern about the negative impact of such labels on the workforce. “Labelling Pattaya as the ‘Sin City’ makes workers in this industry feel neglected. We want the media to take responsibility for reports that damage Pattaya.” Amporn Kaewsaeng, President of the Pattaya Entertainment and Tourism Industry, highlighted the importance of Pattaya’s entertainment sector in employing Thai people from across the country. “Many people come to Pattaya for work so they can give money to their families and take care of them. No one should insult workers in Pattaya, including sex workers who make a significant income to the country.” The protestors urged all news agencies to show compassion and avoid targeting Pattaya, emphasising that it is not the only city in Thailand with a vibrant nightlife scene. Official apology Following the backlash, ThaiRath removed the article and issued an apology to Pattaya residents on their website and official Facebook page last night. The news outlet stated that they intended to report the truth and shed light on another perspective about the city. The reporter team also wanted to highlight that Thai sex workers are seeking changes to the Prevention and Suppression of Prostitution Act. The changes or cancellation of the act would allow them to access the proper welfare and rights as same as workers in other industries. ThaiRath promised to report stories that promote Pattaya’s positive image in the future, to boost business and build confidence among tourists and investors. While Pattaya is referred to as the “Sin City” by several Thai and international media platforms, this term has often been used to describe the city’s lively and unique nightlife scene, which attracts visitors from all around the world. In a related story, a German documentary sparked criticism among locals in Pattaya last year. The documentary revealed the story of two German men who were arrested for buying sex services from teenage girls under the age of 15. The two foreigners reportedly bribed Thai police with over a million baht and went on to live normal lives in their home countries. The president of the Thai Hotels Association, Marisa Sukosol, has come forward to express her concern that the documentary could reduce the number of visitors to the city, as a similar documentary did some 20 years ago. Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-12 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pickup crashes through Merit-Making Event: 1 Dead, 4 Injured Picture courtesy: Khaoded In a harrowing accident late last night in Nakhon Phanom province, a high-speed pickup truck crashed into a merit-making event, resulting in one fatality and four serious injuries. The local community has been left in shock, mourning the tragic disruption of a traditional gathering meant to honor the deceased. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332774-pickup-crashes-through-merit-making-event-1-dead-4-injured/

In a harrowing accident late last night in Nakhon Phanom province, a high-speed pickup truck crashed into a merit-making event, resulting in one fatality and four serious injuries. The local community has been left in shock, mourning the tragic disruption of a traditional gathering meant to honor the deceased. The calamity occurred around 11:40 PM when an Isuzu pickup, speeding dangerously, veered off the road in the village of Kam That during the religious event. Eyewitness accounts and police reports indicate the driver lost control before plowing into a crowd of participants, who were distributing food as part of the ceremonial proceedings. The immediate aftermath was intense and chaotic. Emergency response teams from nearby districts rapidly converged on the site, providing critical aid. The ill-fated victim, identified as 56-year-old Sithon Phalee, was found deceased at the scene alongside three damaged motorcycles, a testament to the severity of the crash. In addition to the tragic death, four individuals – two villagers and two members of the local security team – suffered serious injuries and were transported to Nakhon Phanom Hospital for urgent care. The driver, severely injured and trapped within the wreckage of his vehicle, was also extracted and hospitalized, raising questions about the circumstances leading up to the crash. Local authorities spearheaded by Police Lieutenant Satchanan Bangsai have launched a comprehensive investigation to decipher the cause of the accident, particularly probing into the possibility of impaired driving and mechanical failure. This devastating event has prompted discussions about enhancing safety measures at local events to prevent such heartrending incidents in the future. The community’s response was a mixture of sorrow and fury, with some attendees having to be restrained from confronting the driver amidst their grief and shock. This tragic disruption of a peaceful cultural event highlights the need for stringent safety protocols and responsible driving to safeguard communal gatherings. The investigation remains ongoing, with further updates anticipated as officials delve deeper into this catastrophic occurrence. Picture courtesy: Khaoded -- 2024-07-12 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Heavy rainfall to impact 41 provinces across Thailand today by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Heavy rainfall is set to impact 41 provinces across Thailand today, July 12, with the Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) predicting significant precipitation in regions including the northeast, central, and eastern parts of the country. The Bangkok metropolitan area is expected to see rain over 60% of its expanse. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332772-heavy-rainfall-to-impact-41-provinces-across-thailand-today/

Heavy rainfall is set to impact 41 provinces across Thailand today, July 12, with the Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) predicting significant precipitation in regions including the northeast, central, and eastern parts of the country. The Bangkok metropolitan area is expected to see rain over 60% of its expanse. Over the next 24 hours, a southwest monsoon will cover the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand, while a low-pressure system will hover over northern Vietnam. This combination will lead to thunderstorms and heavy rain in various parts of Thailand. The northern region will experience thunderstorms affecting 40% of the area, particularly in Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phayao, Nan, Phrae, Phitsanulok, and Phetchabun. Temperatures will range from 23 to 26 degrees Celsius (°C) at the lowest to 33 to 36°C at the highest. In the northeastern region, thunderstorms are expected over 60% of the area, with some heavy rainfall in Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Udon Thani, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Mukdahan, Yasothon, Amnat Charoen, Sisaket, and Ubon Ratchathani. The temperature will be between 24 to 25°C at the lowest and 33 to 36°C at the highest. The central region will see thunderstorms in 60% of the area, with heavy rain in Lopburi, Saraburi, Ayutthaya, Nakhon Pathom, and Samut Sakhon. The lowest temperature will be around 24 to 25°C, with the highest reaching 34 to 36°C. In the eastern region, thunderstorms will cover 70% of the area, with heavy rain expected in Nakhon Nayok, Prachinburi, Chachoengsao, Chon Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat. The lowest temperature will be 23 to 25°C, with the highest between 30 to 34°C. Sea waves will be 1 to 2 metres high, and areas with thunderstorms may see waves exceeding 2 metres. High seas The southern region (eastern coast) will have 40% of its area affected by thunderstorms, primarily in Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, and Songkhla. Temperatures will range from 23 to 26°C at the lowest to 33 to 35°C at the highest. Seas from Surat Thani upwards will experience waves of 1 to 2 metres, with areas of thunderstorms seeing waves over 2 metres. From Nakhon Si Thammarat downwards, sea waves will be around 1 metre, with areas of thunderstorms seeing waves exceeding 1 metre. The southern region (western coast) will have 60% of the area experiencing thunderstorms, with heavy rain in Ranong, Phang Nga, and Phuket. The lowest temperature will be 24 to 26°C, with the highest between 30 to 34°C. Seas from Phuket upwards will have waves of 1 to 2 metres, with stormy areas seeing waves over 2 metres. From Krabi downwards, sea waves will be around 1 metre, with stormy areas seeing waves exceeding 1 metre. Bangkok and its vicinity will face thunderstorms affecting 60% of the area, with some heavy rainfall. The lowest temperature will be 25 to 26°C, and the highest will range between 33 to 35°C. The TMD advises residents to stay updated with the latest weather forecasts and be prepared for the potential impacts of heavy rainfall. by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-12 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Nation Group: Salary cuts apply to management team only by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Nation Group has clarified that its recent salary suspension affects a mere 10% of its staff, primarily targeting the management team. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332771-nation-group-salary-cuts-apply-to-management-team-only/

Nation Group has clarified that its recent salary suspension affects a mere 10% of its staff, primarily targeting the management team. This revelation comes amid swirling rumours and public outcry, which the company attributes to distorted messages presenting partial truths, causing widespread public misunderstanding and online criticism, damaging the organisation’s reputation. Dismissing any notions of being in crisis, Nation Group emphasised its proactive measures to brace for future challenges. The media giant, renowned for serving the public, highlighted the global impact of the economic slowdown and technological upheavals, particularly digital disruption, on the media industry. Nation Group asserted that its cost-reduction strategy, including the partial salary suspension, is designed to ensure business stability. This measure, affecting only management, underscores the company’s commitment to responsibility towards the organisation and its employees. It impacts just 10% of the payroll, leaving the remaining 800 employees untouched. Shine Bunnag, Executive Chairman and CEO of Nation Group, stated that Nation Group has been a steadfast media organisation in Thai society for over 54 years. “We have faced numerous economic crises and changes in the media landscape, communication technologies, and economic downturns. This is not the first storm and it won’t be the last. We see the current challenges as part of life’s journey and are not alone in being affected.” Highlighting the company’s resilience, Shine recalled the 10% salary suspension during the Covid-19 pandemic, which was later fully reimbursed once stability returned. He dismissed the sensationalist news from competitors aiming to undermine Nation Group’s credibility, assuring that the current measures are part of a robust strategy for future growth. Nation Group continues to invest in diverse business models, including film, showbiz, and online image and information trading, while integrating Generative AI technology to enhance editorial capabilities, reported The Nation. “We sincerely thank all supporters. Nation Group affirms that the organisation remains stable with strong revenue, and we will continue to produce news and create beneficial content for Thai society.” ORIGINAL STORY: Nation Group announces partial salary suspension Nation Group announced a partial salary suspension for some employees due to a significant decline in advertising revenue across the media industry, driven by current economic conditions. Chairperson Chai Bunnag also opted to forego his salary. Nation Group released an announcement, numbered 015/2567, detailing the decision to partially suspend salaries. This measure comes in response to a sharp decrease in advertising revenue throughout the media sector, attributed to ongoing economic challenges. The company has cited the need to reduce expenses across various areas to ensure sustainable business operations. The salary suspension will apply to employees earning 50,000 baht or more per month, effective July 1 to December 31. The reduction will be implemented on a sliding scale, with salaries being suspended by 10% to 30%, depending on the employee’s salary bracket. Chai Bunnag, the Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer, voluntarily decided not to receive his salary or any compensation from the company during this period. This gesture aims to allocate resources to employees who are in greater need. “The company understands that the partial salary suspension may affect all employees. We assure you that this decision has been made with great care and necessity, to help the company navigate these challenging times.” Nation Group plans to begin reimbursing the suspended salaries starting from January 2025. The repayment is expected to be completed within the first half of the year. Should there be any improvements in the situation, the company will notify employees accordingly. The announcement was signed by Chai Bunnag, confirming the authenticity of the decision. Further discussions regarding the exact percentage reductions will occur today, with an internal announcement to follow, reported KhaoSod. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-12 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Syn Mun Kong Insurance's License Withdrawn, Liquidator Assigned File photo In a move reflecting deepening troubles in Thailand's insurance sector, the Finance Ministry announced on July 4 that Syn Mun Kong Insurance Public Company Limited, a major non-life insurance provider, has been stripped of its operating license. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332769-syn-mun-kong-insurances-license-withdrawn-liquidator-assigned/

In a move reflecting deepening troubles in Thailand's insurance sector, the Finance Ministry announced on July 4 that Syn Mun Kong Insurance Public Company Limited, a major non-life insurance provider, has been stripped of its operating license. Citing severe financial instability, Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira appointed the Non-Life Insurance Fund as the liquidator tasked with divesting the company's assets to reimburse policyholders. This drastic step comes as Syn Mun Kong grapples with the aftermath of aggressive COVID-19 policy payouts, which have tipped the firm into insolvency. It’s the fifth insurance firm to fold under similar pressures during the pandemic era, a worrying trend that begs questions about the sustainability of pandemic-related insurance products. Compensation for policyholders won't be straightforward or swift, warns Chanaphont Mahawong, Manager of the Non-Life Insurance Fund. As the new liquidator, the Fund has opened a 60-day window for claims registration through their website, but they've already amassed significant liabilities—over 50 billion baht owed to around 600,000 former policyholders from previously collapsed insurers. With Syn Mun Kong added to the mix, these figures will soar, pushing potential debt to nearly 90 billion baht affecting close to a million people. Chanaphont hinted at a bleak prognosis: with only one billion baht available annually for debt servicing, it could take up to 80 years to clear the pending claims. This staggering timeline places a burden on affected policyholders, who now face a lengthy wait amidst financial uncertainty. As the saga unfolds, all eyes will be on how the sector adapts to ensure such financial implosions are avoided in the future, ensuring that policyholders can rely on their coverage without fear. TOP: File photo -- 2024-07-12 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Wan to quit Pheu Thai Party next week Wan Yubamrung, vice minister attached to the public health minister, tendered his resignation today and will leave the Pheu Thai Party next week. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332768-wan-to-quit-pheu-thai-party-next-week/

Wan Yubamrung, vice minister attached to the public health minister, tendered his resignation today and will leave the Pheu Thai Party next week. Son of veteran and outspoken Pheu Thai Party member Chalerm Yubamrung said in his Facebook Live post yesterday that he had never thought about leaving the Pheu Thai Party, “as long as the party cares about me and gives me opportunities. But, if one day, the Pheu Thai Party loves me no more and does not give me opportunities, I will have to leave,” said Wan, adding that he had not thought that the day would arrive so soon. Nevertheless, he admitted that he is shocked by having the leave the party, adding that he was also a member of the now defunct Palang Prachachon party, a predecessor of Pheu Thai. The former MP said that there were a lot of things he would like to talk about, but he chose to keep them to himself and would bare them all “if and when I was subjected to some actions”. Full story: Thai PBS 2024-07-12 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand's Cash Handouts: A Future Financial Pitfall? File photo With Thailand granting significant cash handouts in a bid to alleviate poverty, economists are sounding alarms over the potential long-term economic repercussions. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332767-thailands-cash-handouts-a-future-financial-pitfall /

With Thailand granting significant cash handouts in a bid to alleviate poverty, economists are sounding alarms over the potential long-term economic repercussions. Despite the apparent immediate benefits, there's apprehension that these populist measures could undermine sustainable growth and push the country into a cycle of dependency that hampers its aspirations to transition into a high-income nation. Thailand's economy currently classifies as "developing," a label it has held unrevised by the World Bank since 1988, with a GDP per capita significantly lower than that of high-income countries. The thrust of the concern hinges on the sustainability of these cash handouts, which may provide temporary relief but fail to address deeper economic fragilities or build essential capabilities among recipients. The government’s strategy includes tax cuts and financial assistance, which have been popular but controversial. Experts like Athiphat Muthitacharoen, from Chulalongkorn University, highlight that this spending contributes to a persistent budget deficit without fostering economic resilience or skill development essential for self-reliance. According to 2023 data, the government’s recurring expenses on welfare, salaries, and debt repayments consume a substantial part of the budget, leaving little for development initiatives. Critics such as Kobsak Pootrakool of the Federation of Thai Capital Market Organisation question the efficiency of these handouts. Despite government claims of decreased poverty levels, he argues that the real poverty figures have only shifted surface numbers, with many "out of poverty" households still heavily dependent on government aid. The focal point of concern is whether these handouts are merely a quick fix that obscures the more chronic issues such less diversified economy or inadequate investment in human capital. The potential long-term risks include growing fiscal pressures and escalating public debt, with critics cautioning that without a pivot towards more sustainable growth measures, Thailand's economic future may be at risk. TOP: File photo -- 2024-07-12 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Authorities seized more than 3 million speed pills abandoned by fleeing smugglers after an exchange of gunfire along a road near a forested area of Chaing Rai. Border patrol and police officers attempted to stop 3 pickup trucks yesterday morning but were shot at, gunfire continued for some ten minutes before several armed men fled the trucks on foot. A search of the trucks produced 16 sacks filled with around 3.2 million speed pills. Several people received burns following an explosion at a gas refuelling station yesterday at Suphan Buri. A witness said a leaking valve on a 5 tonne gas tanker ignited, Causing the truck to explode, seriously injuring the driver. New logistics route between Ranong port in Thailand and Yangon in Myanmar has been launched to avoid areas of armed conflicts along the roads normally used. An Indian cargo ship was the first to use the route; It left Yangon bound for a return trip to Ranong. Authorities in Phuket are painting over the rainbow crosswalks created for Pride Month in June because their extra width and slippery paint led to a series of motorcycle accidents. They will be replaced by non slippery conventional red-and-white zebra crossings. Around the region. Philippine authorities have identified eight suspects in the kidnap-killings of a Chinese national and Chinese-American that prompted diplomatic intervention by Beijing to call for Manila to swiftly find and punish the perpetrators. Local news report that five of the suspects are foreigners while the remaining three are Filipino nationals. Todays’ WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: Thunderstorms 34C degrees celsius Bangkok:cloudy thunderstorms 32 Pattaya: Cloudy, thunderstorms 31 Phuket and the south: Thunder showers 30 Hua Hin: Cloudy, with isolated thundershowers from lunchtime and during the afternoon 31 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 2024-07-12 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya Residents Unite to Defend Dignity Against "Sin -City " Media Reports Picture courtesy: Daily News In the wake of sensational media reports labeling Pattaya as a "Sinful City, Paradise for Prostitutes," local business leaders and community representatives have come together to defend the city's image and appeal for a balanced portrayal. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332758-pattaya-residents-unite-to-defend-dignity-against-sin-city-media-reports/

Picture courtesy: Daily News In the wake of sensational media reports labeling Pattaya as a "Sinful City, Paradise for Prostitutes," local business leaders and community representatives have come together to defend the city's image and appeal for a balanced portrayal. The negative depiction has sparked significant backlash from the local community, concerned about the impact on Pattaya's tourism and reputation. On July 11, at the bustling entrance of Pattaya's renowned Walking Street, a gathering organized by key figures in the local tourism sector voiced their concerns. Among them were Lisa Hamilton, President of the Pattaya Nightlife Business Association, and Boon-anan Pattanasin, President of the Pattaya Business and Tourism Association, both advocating for a more positive media narrative. Picture courtesy: Daily News Lisa Hamilton emphasized that Pattaya is more than its nightlife, offering a diverse array of attractions to cater to global tourists. The label of a 'sinful city' has overshadowed the contributions of other sectors within Pattaya's economy, affecting local morale and dignity. She called for responsibility in journalism and a shift towards stories that highlight Pattaya's varied tourism offerings. Meanwhile, Boon-anan Pattanasin underscored the importance of recognizing Pattaya as a city of opportunities. By focusing on legal, orderly, and socially responsible tourism practices, Pattaya can demonstrate its capacity as a thriving economic hub, beneficial to Thailand's broader economic landscape. Picture courtesy: Daily News Amporn Kaewsaeng, President of the Pattaya Entertainment and Tourism Industry Association, also weighed in, expressing her displeasure over the negative image portrayed. She defended the nightlife sector as a significant economic contributor, providing livelihoods for many who support their families through tourism-related activities. These leaders, along with others from the local business community, are calling for media support to reshape the narrative around Pattaya, promoting it as a city rich in opportunities and experiences beyond the nightlife for which it is internationally known. Picture courtesy: Daily News Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-07-12 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe