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Thailand aims for 3.4 trillion baht in tourism revenue by 2025 Image courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand’s Tourism Authority (TAT) plans to achieve 7.5% revenue growth or 3.4 trillion baht in 2025, while private operators advocate for airfare subsidies to boost income, to mark the upcoming year as Thailand Grand Tourism Year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331903-thailand-aims-for-34-trillion-baht-in-tourism-revenue-by-2025/

Former Democratic MP, Theptai Seanapong, has requested a probe into a meeting that allegedly took place between ex-National Police Chief, Sereepisuth Temeeyaves, and former PM Thaksin Shinawatra in the Police General Hospital. Ex-MP Demands Probe into Thaksin's Hospital Meeting Amidst Power Abuse Claims Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331922-ex-mp-demands-probe-into-thaksins-hospital-meeting-amidst-power-abuse-claims/

Train collision in Phichit leaves five dead, two injured by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod A tragic accident occurred yesterday, July 8, when a train collided with a pickup truck at an unguarded crossing in Ban Ratchachangkhwan, Phichit Province, resulting in five fatalities and two severe injuries. The victims were en route to a relative’s funeral. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331882-train-collision-in-phichit-leaves-five-dead-two-injured/

A tragic accident occurred yesterday, July 8, when a train collided with a pickup truck at an unguarded crossing in Ban Ratchachangkhwan, Phichit Province, resulting in five fatalities and two severe injuries. The victims were en route to a relative’s funeral. The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) expressed its condolences to the families affected by the incident. The collision happened between Phichit and Taphan Hin stations involving a brown Nissan pickup truck. The accident occurred on the Phichit-Taphan Hin route. Despite the presence of warning signs and signals, the crash resulted in two injuries and five deaths. According to initial investigations, the pickup truck was travelling from Mueang district, Phichit province, to attend a funeral at Wat Ratchachangkhwan. In response to the accident, the SRT dispatched officials to the scene to provide immediate assistance and humanitarian aid to the injured and the families of the deceased. SRT Office Governor Ekrach Sriarayenpong reported that the incident was officially recorded at 6.07pm yesterday, July 8. The train involved was a train running from Bangkok to Phitsanulok. The train’s locomotive suffered damage and had to return to Taphan Hin station for a replacement before resuming its journey. The SRT has been actively addressing the issue of accidents at level crossings by educating the public and local communities about safety measures and the importance of adhering to traffic laws. The agency also ensures that warning signs and signals are adequately placed to prevent future incidents. Immediate measures have been taken by the SRT to address illegal crossings. Officials have been tasked with identifying and mitigating these crossings, either by closing them or collaborating with local government agencies to install automatic barriers. However, the SRT faces challenges as locals often request the reopening of these closed crossings for convenience or use them without permission, reported KhaoSod. by Ryan Turner mage courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-09 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Former red-shirt leader plans protest against new govt initiatives by Ryan Turne Image courtesy of The Standard Former red-shirt leader Jatuporn Prompan announced plans for a protest next month against several government initiatives, citing concerns that these measures would primarily benefit the country’s elite. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331881-former-red-shirt-leader-plans-protest-against-new-govt-initiatives/

Former red-shirt leader Jatuporn Prompan announced plans for a protest next month against several government initiatives, citing concerns that these measures would primarily benefit the country’s elite. Jatuporn specifically pointed to proposals to increase the cap on foreign ownership in condominiums to 75% and extend land leases for foreigners to 99 years. In a Facebook post made yesterday, July 8, Jatuporn urged the public to stop being political victims and join him in opposing Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s initiatives. He accused the government of having a secret agenda designed to help certain groups amass funds for upcoming elections. In his Facebook post, Jatuporn highlighted the Bangkok-born PM‘s history as a real estate developer, warning that if these plans are implemented without opposition, it could result in Thailand losing its independence, as condominiums might be entirely owned by foreigners, 75% through legal ownership and the remaining 25% through nominees. He also cautioned that extending land lease terms from 30 years to 99 years would effectively allow foreigners to establish colonies in Thailand. According to Jatuporn, the foreign condominium ownership scheme is valued at 4 trillion baht. He also highlighted other government projects requiring massive investments, amounting to trillions of baht, such as the digital wallet scheme, the southern Land Bridge megaproject, and a casino complex development. Jatuporn specifically criticised the digital wallet scheme, which proposes a one-time 10,000-baht cash bonus for eligible citizens. He claimed that the discrepancy between the project’s budget request and actual spending could be as high as 400 billion baht. Thai Sang Thai Party leader Khunying Sudarat Keyuraphan also expressed her opposition to the proposed changes to condominium ownership quotas and land lease terms. She urged the government to prioritise helping Thai citizens instead. “People are losing their homes… this is an urgent matter that the government must address immediately.” The upcoming government protest aims to rally public sentiment against these initiatives, with Jatuporn calling for collective action to ensure that governmental policies serve the broader public interest rather than a privileged few, reported Bangkok Post. by Ryan Turne Image courtesy of The Standard Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-09 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya bus office robbed of cash, phones, and documents Photo of Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ ข่าวประเด็นเด็ดทั่วไทย Police are searching for thieves who stole cash, mobile phones, and important documents from an office of the Pattaya Bus Cooperative last night, July 8. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331880-pattaya-bus-office-robbed-of-cash-phones-and-documents/

Police are searching for thieves who stole cash, mobile phones, and important documents from an office of the Pattaya Bus Cooperative last night, July 8. Pattaya Bus Cooperative President Raewat Chiangchin filed a complaint with Bang Lamung Police Station reporting that an unknown number of thieves entered the three-storey office at night. The thieves are suspected to have entered the office on the mezzanine level through a window, as there was no sign of forced entry on any doors or windows. Several office items were found scattered on the floor. The thieves reportedly broke into a safe and stole four mobile phones, cash, and important documents belonging to cooperative members. The phones had been left behind by passengers on buses operated by cooperative members. The total value of the stolen items has not been disclosed. In addition to stealing valuables from the office, the thieves also took snacks and drinks from the office refrigerator. Police officers are now reviewing security camera footage from the scene and nearby locations to identify and locate the suspects. Fingerprints left on various pieces of furniture may also help identify the culprits. In a related report, another robbery took place at a gold shop in the northern province of Chiang Mai, yesterday, July 8. The thief, disguised as a Grab delivery rider, escaped with gold necklaces worth approximately 2.8 million baht. The thief, 26 year old Nitiphon Aomboonsookying, was eventually arrested last night. He confessed to planning the theft for over a year, motivated by a desire to help his parents repay a 10 million baht debt. He also revealed that he had murdered a Grab car driver before using the dead man’s vehicle and jacket in his robbery plan. In a related case, two Thai men were arrested for stealing 3.3 million baht in cash from a victim in a supermarket car park in Bangkok. In addition to investigating the theft, police are also examining whether the money was earned legally, as the victim displayed suspicious behaviour. Photo of Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ ข่าวประเด็นเด็ดทั่วไทย Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-09 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Travelers Demand Quality Over Low-Cost Tours Picture courtesy: zaobao Despite the allure of cheaper travel packages, Thai outbound travellers are continuing to opt for quality over cost, changing the face of international travel from Thailand. The trend emerges amid a crackdown on cost-cutting practices that often compromise the travel experience. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331879-thai-travelers-demand-quality-over-low-cost-tours/

Despite the allure of cheaper travel packages, Thai outbound travellers are continuing to opt for quality over cost, changing the face of international travel from Thailand. The trend emerges amid a crackdown on cost-cutting practices that often compromise the travel experience. The Thai tourism sector, especially for outbound travels, has been relatively insulated from the price wars often seen in popular destinations like South Korea, Macau, and Italy. According to the Thai Travel Agents Association (TTAA) Vice-President, Chotechuang Soorangura, the impact of cheap packages has decreased as more Thais are opting for higher-quality travel options. The shift comes even as the global economic pressure has pushed the cost of travel up by at least 30% since before the pandemic. Historically, these inexpensive tour packages often came with conditions, such as compulsory purchases at specific stores, which would catch travellers off guard. The TTAA noted that while such practices are less prevalent today, they haven't been eradicated. Chotechuang highlighted that initially, many tourists unknowingly fell into these traps, lured by the low prices. However, the scenario has evolved significantly post-pandemic. Nowadays, even budget tour packages attempt to enhance their appeal and reputation by improving the quality of their compulsory shopping offerings. For example, in Taiwan, stores selling traditional pineapple cakes have transformed their sales strategy. They now offer museum-like experiences that engage tourists with the history and culture behind the product, thus adding value to what was once a mere shopping stop. TTAA also points out the shift in consumer behaviour saying Thai travellers are becoming increasingly discerning, prioritizing the credibility and reliability of tour operators over mere cost savings. Kriangphon Piyaekchai, another Vice-President of TTAA, underscored the organisation's commitment to education and monitoring. He revealed that over a thousand member agencies are on the watch, ensuring that travellers are not misled by deceptive pricing strategies. These developments signal a maturing travel culture among Thais, who now value quality and transparency more than ever, steering clear of the pitfalls of cheaper travel deals that compromise their travel experience. Picture courtesy: zaobao -- 2024-07-09 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Police Impersonator Assaults Woman in Pattaya Bar Picture courtesy: Khaosod In an unsettling incident early this morning at a popular Pattaya bar, a woman was groped by a man who deceitfully introduced himself as a police inspector. The attack occurred on South Pattaya Road, prompting immediate police intervention. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331877-police-impersonator-assaults-woman-in-pattaya-bar/

In an unsettling incident early this morning at a popular Pattaya bar, a woman was groped by a man who deceitfully introduced himself as a police inspector. The attack occurred on South Pattaya Road, prompting immediate police intervention. The victim, a 39-year-old Thai woman named Aim, reported that she was approached by a group of about ten men while enjoying an evening out. One man, who identified himself only as Inspector Bee from Rayong, struck up a conversation with her. After a friendly exchange and a toast, he left only to return and assault her. The perpetrator reached under her shirt, an act that left Aim shocked and violated. Aim bravely challenged the assailant, questioning the integrity of his claimed police status. Disturbingly, his companions tried to intimidate her, reinforcing his false identity and discouraging her from reacting. However, Aim quickly alerted the real police. Upon their arrival, the alleged inspector and his group fled the scene. Pattaya City Police have launched a full investigation following Aim's official complaint. They are currently attempting to identify the man and his accomplices, believed to have escaped through the bar’s back exit. This troubling incident underscores ongoing concerns about safety in nightlife districts and the audacity of individuals impersonating law enforcement officers to commit crimes. Aim's immediate response and the prompt arrival of actual police officers have been crucial in taking steps towards addressing these challenges. The community and authorities remain vigilant, hopeful that such bold impostures and violations can be curtailed to ensure the safety and security of citizens and tourists alike in Pattaya's bustling nightlife. Picture courtesy: Khaosod -- 2024-07-09 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Sleepy Driver Causes Accident in Songkhla, Killing 3, Injuring 2 Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In a devastating turn of events yesterday, a severe traffic accident on the Songkhla-Natawee Road in southern Thailand has claimed the lives of three individuals, including the driver believed to have caused the accident by falling asleep at the wheel. This grievous incident also left two others with serious injuries requiring immediate hospitalization. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331875-sleepy-driver causes-accident-in-songkhla-killing-3-injuring-2/

In a devastating turn of events yesterday, a severe traffic accident on the Songkhla-Natawee Road in southern Thailand has claimed the lives of three individuals, including the driver believed to have caused the accident by falling asleep at the wheel. This grievous incident also left two others with serious injuries requiring immediate hospitalization. The collision, which occurred in the late afternoon, involved a head-on clash between two pickup trucks: a black Isuzu D-Max and a bronze Nissan Navavara. According to surveillance footage and skid marks at the scene, it is suspected that the driver of the Isuzu, a woman traveling alone, succumbed to fatigue and veered across the central reservation into oncoming traffic. The scene described by authorities painted a picture of destruction, with the fronts of both vehicles severely damaged. Emergency services, including responders from the Chanong Sub-district and Nitimittaparb Rescue Foundations, were quick to the scene, extricating trapped victims and rushing the injured to the nearest hospital. The deceased have been identified tentatively based on the vehicle registrations and initial investigations, though their names have yet to be released pending family notifications. The two passengers in the Nissan, who survived the impact, are currently in critical condition, with local hospitals providing updates on their recovery progress. Authorities are urging drivers to ensure they are well-rested before undertaking journeys and to take regular breaks to prevent such tragedies. The local police chief emphasized the importance of road safety awareness and mentioned that an investigation is ongoing to further understand the dynamics of the crash and assist in future preventive measures. This heartbreaking incident serves as a grim reminder of the dangers of driving while fatigued, urging the community to take heed and prioritize safety to avoid further loss of life on the roads. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-07-09 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Heavy rain and high waves forecasted across Thailand by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) issued a warning about the southwest monsoon covering the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, causing waves exceeding 2 metres and heavy rain across Thailand, including Bangkok and its vicinity, with thunderstorms expected in 60% of the area. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331872-heavy-rain-and-high-waves-forecasted-across-thailand/

The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) issued a warning about the southwest monsoon covering the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, causing waves exceeding 2 metres and heavy rain across Thailand, including Bangkok and its vicinity, with thunderstorms expected in 60% of the area. The TMD forecasts weather conditions for the next 24 hours, highlighting the impact of the southwest monsoon over the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand. This weather pattern is expected to result in thunderstorms and heavy rainfall in various regions of the country. Residents in the affected areas are advised to be cautious of the dangers posed by severe weather and accumulated rainfall. The Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand are experiencing waves approximately 1 metre high, with areas of thunderstorms seeing waves exceeding 2 metres. All seafarers are urged to exercise caution and avoid navigating in areas experiencing thunderstorms. The northern region will see thunderstorms covering 60% of the area, with heavy rain in some provinces, including Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Lamphun, Lampang, Phrae, Nan, Tak, Kamphaeng Phet, Sukhothai, Uttaradit, Phitsanulok, and Phetchabun. Temperatures will range from 24 to 26 degrees Celsius (°C) at the lowest and 33 to 36°C at the highest, with southwesterly winds blowing at speeds of 10 to 15 kilometres per hour. In the northeastern region, thunderstorms are expected in 60% of the area, particularly in Loei, Nong Bua Lamphu, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Udon Thani, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Chaiyaphum, and Nakhon Ratchasima. The lowest temperatures will be between 24 and 25°C, while the highest temperatures will be between 32 and 34°C, with southwesterly winds at 10 to 20 km/h. Thunderstorms imminent The central region will have thunderstorms in 60% of the area, with heavy rain in some parts of Uthai Thani, Chai Nat, Lopburi, Saraburi, Suphanburi, Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Nakhon Pathom, Samut Songkhram, and Samut Sakhon. Temperatures will range from 25 to 27°C at the lowest and 34 to 35°C at the highest, with southwesterly winds at 10 to 20 km/h. The eastern region is forecasted to experience thunderstorms in 60% of the area, with heavy rain in Nakhon Nayok, Chon Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat. The lowest temperatures will be between 25 and 28°C, while the highest temperatures will be between 32 and 35°C. The southwesterly winds will blow at speeds of 15 to 30 km/h. The sea will have waves approximately 1 metre high, but in areas with thunderstorms, waves will exceed 2 metres. In the southern region (eastern coast), thunderstorms are predicted in 40% of the area, with heavy rain in Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. Temperatures will range from 23 to 26°C at the lowest and 32 to 34°C at the highest, with southwesterly winds at 15 to 30 km/h. The sea will have waves approximately 1 metre high, with waves over 2 metres in areas experiencing thunderstorms. The southern region (western coast) will have thunderstorms in 60% of the area, particularly in Ranong, Phuket, Trang, and Satun. The lowest temperatures will be between 24 and 26°C, while the highest temperatures will be between 31 and 33°C, with southwesterly winds at 15 to 30 km/h. The sea will have waves approximately one metre high, with waves exceeding 2 metres in areas with thunderstorms. Bangkok and its vicinity are expected to have thunderstorms in 60% of the area. The lowest temperatures will be between 26 and 27°C, while the highest temperatures will be between 33 and 35°C, with southwesterly winds at 10 to 20 km/h. by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-09 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Man Leaves Underwear Outside, Female Thief Steals It at Night Picture courtesy: honekrasae. The Facebook page Social Hunter 2022 posted a clip from a CCTV camera showing a woman sneaking into a house and stealing a man's underwear. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331871-man-leaves-underwear-outside-female-thief-steals-it-at-night/

The Facebook page Social Hunter 2022 posted a clip from a CCTV camera showing a woman sneaking into a house and stealing a man's underwear. The page captioned the video with: "Warning: Men's underwear can get stolen by women too! Keep it safe in Khlong Luang, Pathum Thani." After the post went viral, many netizens commented and criticized the incident. Usually, it’s men who are caught stealing women’s underwear, reported honekrasae. Some commenters joked that the woman might have a crush on the man or that her husband's underwear ran out, so she stole it for him. Picture courtesy: honekrasae. -- 2024-07-09 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Nong Prue Municipality Hosts Youth and Public Football Competitions to Combat Drug Abuse By Adam Judd Nongprue— In a bid to promote physical activity, foster community unity, and combat drug abuse, Nong Prue Municipality is organizing the Nong Prue Municipality Anti-Drug Day 2024 football competitions. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331870-nong-prue-municipality-hosts-youth-and-public-football-competitions-to-combat-drug-abuse/

Nongprue— In a bid to promote physical activity, foster community unity, and combat drug abuse, Nong Prue Municipality is organizing the Nong Prue Municipality Anti-Drug Day 2024 football competitions. The event, chaired by Mayor Mr. Winai Inpitak, aims to engage youth and citizens in healthy pursuits while emphasizing the importance of staying away from illegal drugs. The football organization for this year’s competition is divided into two main categories: 1. **Youth Division:** – Ten teams will participate, split into two groups: – **Line A:** – Nong Prue Municipality Kindergarten School Team A – Ban Nong Prue Community School Team – Ban Noen School – Phlap Wan School – Wat Sutthawat School By Adam Judd Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-07-09 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand gears up for digital wallet launch: 10,000 Baht Payout Per Citizen Picture courtesy: Thai Government PR Department Thailand is preparing to launch an innovative digital wallet initiative, sponsored by the government, that aims to distribute 10,000 baht to every citizen. This move is part of a wider effort to stimulate economic growth by encouraging consumer spending within local markets. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331865-thailand-gears-up-for-digital-wallet-launch-10000-baht-payout-per-citizen/

Thailand is preparing to launch an innovative digital wallet initiative, sponsored by the government, that aims to distribute 10,000 baht to every citizen. This move is part of a wider effort to stimulate economic growth by encouraging consumer spending within local markets. Deputy Finance Minister Paopum Rojanasakul recently clarified details of the project timeline and addressed opposition concerns regarding potential misuse of funds and procedural delays. Rojanasakul confirmed that both planning and legal preparations are advancing without delay, with key meetings including a policy committee on July 15, and a crucial Cabinet session scheduled for July 30. The digital wallet is designed to enable direct payments to citizens, circumventing conventional banking methods to ignite immediate economic activity. This is particularly crucial as Thailand looks to counter economic repercussions from global uncertainties. The Deputy Minister highlighted the implementation of strict legal frameworks to guarantee that funds align with the project's goals, focusing on eligible goods while excluding items like mobile phones and other electronics to prevent foreign capital flight. Rojanasakul also mentioned having backup plans should legal issues arise, ensuring the government is ready to adapt and maintain the planned schedule. He reassured the public that registrations for the digital wallet will start in the third quarter, with the rollout of funds projected for the fourth quarter. Additionally, preliminary estimates from the World Bank suggest that the initiative could help increase GDP by 0.5% to 1%, though actual impact will depend on several factors including the list of restricted items and the scheme's reception among the populace. With the possibility of the Bank of Thailand adjusting interest rates in response to economic fluctuations caused by the project, Rojanasakul urged a comprehensive and cautious evaluation of these fiscal and monetary policies. This initiative marks Thailand's strategic use of digital technology to propel its economy forward and deliver direct financial support to its citizens, setting a pioneering example in government-led digital financial solutions. Picture courtesy: Thai Government PR Department -- 2024-07-09 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Uncertainty Surrounds Approval of Thailand's Submarine Deal Picture courtesy: Khaosod The future of Thailand's controversial submarine acquisition from China remains uncertain, as expressed by Defence Minister Suthin Khlangsang today. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331864-uncertainty-surrounds-approval-of-thailands-submarine-deal/

The future of Thailand's controversial submarine acquisition from China remains uncertain, as expressed by Defence Minister Suthin Khlangsang today. The deal, heavily scrutinized both domestically and internationally, involves the purchase of a Yuan-class S26T submarine worth 12.4 billion baht (approximately £280 million). Speaking in Bangkok, Minister Suthin highlighted that the cabinet's decision hinges on thorough legal reviews surrounding significant changes to the planned submarine specifications, including a switch in the engine model and an extended construction period. The original contract stipulated a German-made engine, but revisions have proposed a substitution with a Chinese-made counterpart, coupled with a longer timeframe for delivering the vessel. This pivotal decision rests with a legal team overseen by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and the Council of State. Emphasizing the government's cautious approach, Suthin explained that all legalities must be clearly resolved to ensure transparency and public confidence. Naval officials, including the current navy chief, Adm. Adung Pan-iam, await the cabinet's verdict with bated breath, as retirement looms for some involved in the initial stages of the agreement. The deal has its roots in the tenure of former Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha and former navy chief Ruechai Ruddit, who both pushed the purchase through just before their respective retirements in 2020. To date, Thailand has paid approximately half of the total cost, with around 5.5 billion baht outstanding. The acquisition, if finalized, would be Thailand’s first submarine procurement in over sixty years, marking a significant milestone in the country's naval modernization efforts. However, the myriad legal and procedural hurdles suggest that a final decision may still be some time away. Picture courtesy: Khaosod -- 2024-07-09 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Monks and Abbot Disrobed After Drug Scandal Rocks Phetchabun Temple Picture courtesy: Channel 3Plus A shocking revelation came to light at Wat Pa Sap Warin in Phetchabun Province when four monks, including the acting abbot, tested positive for illicit drugs, leading to their immediate disrobing. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331861-monks-and-abbot-disrobed-after-drug-scandal-rocks-phetchabun-temple/