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Thailand Ranked Sixth Best Country Worldwide for Expats Picture courtesy: nWikipedia Thailand has been ranked as the sixth-best country in the world for expats to live and work, according to the latest Expat Insider report from InterNations, the global community for expatriates. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331738-thailand-ranked-sixth-best-country-worldwide-for-expats/

Picture courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand has been ranked as the sixth-best country in the world for expats to live and work, according to the latest Expat Insider report from InterNations, the global community for expatriates. The report, which surveyed over 12,500 expatriates in February, revealed that Panama took the top spot out of 53 countries. The survey looked into expat satisfaction based on their quality of life abroad, with the key areas being ease of settling in, working conditions, personal finances, and access to essential services and amenities. Panama emerged as the favourite, with a whopping 82% of its expats expressing happiness with their lives. Expats cited Panama's low cost of living, ease of relocation, and affordable housing as significant factors contributing to their high satisfaction levels. Many respondents moved to Panama for financial reasons, retirement, or to improve their overall quality of life. The top ten countries, following Panama, include Mexico, Indonesia, Spain, Colombia, Thailand, Brazil, Vietnam, the Philippines, and the United Arab Emirates. In Thailand, expats praised the country's welcoming atmosphere, vibrant culture, and relatively low cost of living, making it an attractive destination for those seeking work-life balance. Government Spokesman Chai Wacharonke noted that Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has been actively promoting tourism as a key economic strategy since taking office. The government has introduced several initiatives to boost foreign arrivals, such as visa-free entry for selected nationalities and fast-track visas for participants in MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions). These measures are part of a broader effort to create jobs and generate revenue in Thailand's tourism sector, positioning the country as a favourable destination for both tourists and expatriates alike. Thailand's ranking in the Expat Insider report highlights its appeal as an expat-friendly destination, reflecting the positive experiences of those who have chosen to make it their home. -- 2024-07-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Still Unclear Where Chinatown Fire Started With 60 Houses Likely Gutted by TNR Staff FORENSIC Police started investigating last night’s huge inferno at Trok Pho community on Yaowarat road but as yet are unable to determine exactly where it started amid difficult conditions with water still being sprayed at some spots to prevent the fire from reigniting, Thai Rath newspaper said this afternoon (July 7). It is as yet unclear how many houses were burnt down with one report saying 30 but Praram Radio Centre put the total at 60. The blaze also spread to the New Empire Hotel damaging its fourth, fifth and sixth floors. Also damaged were the fourth and fifth floors of Chalermburi shark fin and Tai Cheng Hot Pot & Dim Sum restaurants. This radio centre added that many of the houses that were gutted were made of wood and built close to each other with damage spread across one and 2 wah land plot. Five men were injured in this big fire with one admitted to Hua Chiew Hospital after suffering an electric shock, two men were admitted to BMA General Hospital (Klang Hospital) for smoke inhalation while two others were also being treated at Taksin and Samitivej Chinatown hospitals for the same condition but on outpatient basis. Full story: THE THAI NEWSROOM 2024-07-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Monday 8 July 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1331737-thailand-live-monday-8-july-2024/

Picture courtesy; Workpoint news The Rama 199 radio center received a report via the 199 hotline about a fire in the Pho Alley community on Yaowarat Road, Samphanthawong Subdistrict. Fire and rescue teams from Suan Mali, Phu Khao Thong, and Banthat Thong stations were dispatched to the scene. Fire in Bangkok’s Chinatown injures 30, damages hotel Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331691-guests-rescued-from-hotel-during-fire/

Fire in Bangkok’s Chinatown injures 30, damages hotel by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of ข่าวพัทยา Pattayanews Facebook A fire that ravaged the Trok Pho community in Yaowarat, Bangkok’s Chinatown, was brought under control late last night after igniting around 9pm. The blaze left approximately 30 people injured. Firefighters received reports of the fire beginning at 8.42pm in the Trok Pho area along Yaowarat Road in the Samphanthawong district. The fire quickly spread through the 3,200-square-metre community, which housed around 30 wooden residences. Approximately 40 fire engines were dispatched to the scene, and firefighters managed to control the flames by 11.16pm. The fire also caused damage to a portion of the seven-story New Empire Hotel. Firefighters successfully evacuated guests using the bucket of a fire engine. Around 30 individuals sustained injuries, primarily due to smoke inhalation, with most of the injured being senior citizens. No fatalities have been reported. For public safety, a section of Yaowarat Road was closed from Chaloem Buri intersection to Odeon roundabout as firefighters continued to extinguish smouldering debris, reported Bangkok Post. The incident affected roughly 280 people, many of whom sought refuge at Wat Traimit. Most of those displaced are workers from other provinces and neighbouring countries. In related news, a fire erupted in the ventilation shaft of a prominent hotel in downtown Hat Yai, leading to chaotic scenes as staff and guests scrambled to evacuate. Officials are investigating the incident, initially suspected to be caused by an electrical short circuit. At 7.30pm on June 25, emergency services were alerted to a fire at a well-known hotel on Sanehanusorn Road, within the Hat Yai municipality in Songkhla province. Firefighters from Hat Yai Municipality quickly responded, dispatching four fire engines to the scene. Upon arrival, firefighters discovered flames inside the hotel’s ventilation shaft, which measures over 1.5 metres wide. It took approximately 10 minutes to bring the fire under control, but during this time, thick smoke filled the hotel, causing panic among both guests and staff. Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Banglamung Officials Raid Illegal Gambling Den By Adam Judd Banglamung- Local Government officials led by Mr. Weekit Manarojkit, Banglamung District Chief, successfully raided an illegal gambling den operating under the name “Tong Card Casino.” The crackdown took place at a house in Village Number 7 in the Huai Yai Subdistrict. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331665-banglamung-officials-raid-illegal-gambling-den/

Banglamung- Local Government officials led by Mr. Weekit Manarojkit, Banglamung District Chief, successfully raided an illegal gambling den operating under the name “Tong Card Casino.” The crackdown took place at a house in Village Number 7 in the Huai Yai Subdistrict. The den, which had been openly flouting the law, was discovered following a tip-off from a concerned citizen afraid of gambling causing problems in the community. The Banglamung Permanent Secretary for Security ordered the raid, leading to the arrest of 12 gamblers. Upon entering the large house, situated on an area of more than two rai near the railroad tracks, officers found two separate card circles. Each circle consisted of six players—nine women and three men in total—engaged in lively card games. The gamblers, unaware of their imminent arrest, were caught off guard. Seized items included paper playing cards, a table for playing cards, pok deng cards, a card picker, and an undisclosed sum of cash. Notably, a note allegedly paying tribute to unidentified police officers was also discovered. The casino had been in operation for 30 days, with ongoing payments for utilities such as water and electricity. By Adam Judd Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-07-06 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Investigation Continues Into Death of Disabled Man on Highway Near Pattaya By Adam Judd Banglamung: Local reporters were left in shock after uncovering the heartbreaking story of Mr. Amae Ma-yea, a 28-year-old man from Chiang Rai Province, who passed away in an apparent hit and run this week near Pattaya as we reported previously HERE. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331664-investigation-continues-into-death-of-disabled-man-on-highway-near-pattaya/

Banglamung: Local reporters were left in shock after uncovering the heartbreaking story of Mr. Amae Ma-yea, a 28-year-old man from Chiang Rai Province, who passed away in an apparent hit and run this week near Pattaya as we reported previously HERE. Mr. Amae, a disabled person with atrophied limbs and polio, tragically lost his life after being struck by an unidentified vehicle near the Khao Mai Kaew intersection on Highway No. 331 (Sattahip – Nakhon Ratchasima). His lifeless body was discovered near Village Number 1, in the Khao Mai Kaeo Subdistrict in Banglamung. The incident came to light when police and local villagers, who had previously provided food, water, and assistance to Mr. Amae, were preparing to send him back to his hometown. Shockingly, they found him dead. The area where he died, approximately 500 meters from the Khao Mai Kaew police guardhouse, showed blood stains and the deceased’s shoes. Unfortunately, there were no witnesses to the accident, although one young man swerved his car to avoid the body, running off the road, and called the police. This man was later cleared by police in the incident as there was no damage to his vehicle that would have been caused by colliding with a human being. By Adam Judd Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-07-06 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NSC to review permanent border checkpoint with Cambodia by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The National Security Council (NSC) will thoroughly examine the trade benefits and security concerns surrounding a proposed new permanent border checkpoint with Cambodia, according to a senior official. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331662-nsc-to-review-permanent-border-checkpoint-with-cambodia/

The National Security Council (NSC) will thoroughly examine the trade benefits and security concerns surrounding a proposed new permanent border checkpoint with Cambodia, according to a senior official. Police in Trat province are advocating for Ban Tha Sen in Mueang district to be established as a permanent checkpoint following Cabinet approval, pending NSC support. Ban Tha Sen borders Phothisat province in Cambodia. Currently, the crossing operates three days a week to facilitate local border trade but lacks official checkpoint status. The Ministry of Commerce is keen to transform the pass into a gateway for transporting goods to Phothisat, which has a population of 330,000, and even to Phnom Penh, approximately 230 kilometres from the border. An obstacle to the plan is border conflicts, a visiting NSC delegation led by deputy secretary-general Woranat Khongmuang was informed n Thursday, July 4. A marine unit responsible for the area briefed the delegation that Cambodia had constructed structures, including parts of a casino and residential quarters, encroaching on Thai soil at 18 locations at Ban Tha Sen. Thai police have lodged protests with both local Cambodian police and the Phnom Penh government, the marine officers reported. The border casino complex in Cambodia was built by Chinese investors, and about 2,000 Chinese nationals are residing in the area, according to Thai security police. Woranat stated that the NSC would assess the situation, including the resolution of border encroachments, before making a recommendation on the future of the crossing. The NSC will evaluate all aspects of the proposal to ensure it benefits trade and security. The outcome of this evaluation will determine whether Ban Tha Sen becomes a permanent checkpoint, potentially enhancing trade routes and economic ties between Thailand and Cambodia, reported Bangkok Post. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post -- 2024-07-06 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Cannabis Supporters to March Against Government's U-Turn Picture courtesy: Wikipedia BANGKOK - There’s a wave of discontent brewing in Bangkok as advocates of cannabis decriminalisation plan a protest march on Monday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331661-cannabis-supporters-to-march-against-governments-u-turn/

BANGKOK - There’s a wave of discontent brewing in Bangkok as advocates of cannabis decriminalisation plan a protest march on Monday. They are set to traverse from Ratchadamnoen Nai Road to Government House, aiming to voice their opposition to the recent decision to criminalise cannabis and hemp. The Ministry of Public Health’s Narcotics Board recently voted in favour of classifying cannabis flowers and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) exceeding 0.2% as Category 5 narcotics. This decision, which excludes cannabis roots, seeds, and branches, has sparked controversy. While the board acknowledged the medical benefits of cannabis, they adamantly opposed its recreational use. The decision now heads to the Narcotics Control Board, with the hope that the new classification will take effect by January 1st. Prasitchai Nanuam, a key protest leader, declared that this march represents their final effort to prevent the re-criminalisation of cannabis. Nanuam pointed fingers at Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, accusing him of directing the Public Health Ministry to re-examine the cannabis and hemp policies. He encouraged all supporters to gather on Ratchadamnoen Nai Road on Sunday, preparing to camp out before the Monday demonstration. Cannabis and hemp were previously removed from the Category 5 drug list about two years ago, a move championed by the Bhumjaithai Party. This paved the way for widespread cultivation and a proliferation of cannabis outlets, igniting concerns among medical professionals about the potential for recreational abuse, particularly among young people. Although a decriminalisation bill had passed its first reading in the House, it was shelved due to opposition from various parties and eventually dropped when the House’s term ended. As the debate over cannabis use heats up once more, Monday’s march is set to be a significant event, reflecting the growing tension and divergent views within the nation. Picture courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-07-06 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Yingluck Shinawatra Hints at Return Amid Legal Victories Picture courtesy: Facebook Yingluck Shinawatra Yingluck Shinawatra, Thailand's first female prime minister, has recently signalled her potential return to the country after spending years in self-imposed exile. Celebrating her 57th birthday in London, Yingluck told her supporters in a video call that she hopes to celebrate her next birthday in Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331658-yingluck-shinawatra-hints-at-return-amid-legal-victories/

Yingluck Shinawatra, Thailand's first female prime minister, has recently signalled her potential return to the country after spending years in self-imposed exile. Celebrating her 57th birthday in London, Yingluck told her supporters in a video call that she hopes to celebrate her next birthday in Thailand. Yingluck’s possible return gains credence following a slew of favourable court rulings over the last six months. Her niece, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, leader of the ruling Pheu Thai Party, further fanned the speculation by expressing her wish for Yingluck’s return through a heartfelt social media post. Thaksin Shinawatra, Yingluck’s brother and former Thai prime minister, returned to the country in August after 15 years overseas following a royal pardon reducing his prison sentence. This move has raised hopes for Yingluck's return, especially given the easing of her legal troubles. Yingluck was convicted in absentia in 2017 for negligence related to a rice-pledging scheme, leading to a five-year prison term. Recent legal verdicts, however, have been in her favour. In December, the Supreme Court acquitted her of malfeasance in a 2011 administrative transfer. Additionally, in March, she was cleared of misconduct and price collusion charges linked to infrastructure development projects. The Attorney-General’s Office and the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) opted not to appeal these verdicts, closing critical legal hurdles and making Yingluck's return more plausible. Thaksin has suggested that Yingluck’s case is simpler compared to his own, with fewer legal entanglements. Legal experts and political observers indicate that a return similar to Thaksin's is feasible, involving adjustments to current regulations to facilitate her reintegration without imprisonment. Though some complaints against Yingluck remain under the NACC’s review, there is no immediate indication these cases will move forward. This opens the path for a potential return, eagerly awaited by her supporters and family. Picture courtesy: Facebook Yingluck Shinawatra -- 2024-07-06 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Italy-Thai Forum Strengthens Economic Bonds Picture courtesy: Thai Rath The ninth annual Italian-Thai Business Forum (ITBF) took place recently in Florence, Italy, aimed at bolstering economic cooperation between the two nations. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331654-italy-thai-forum-strengthens-economic-bonds/

The ninth annual Italian-Thai Business Forum (ITBF) took place recently in Florence, Italy, aimed at bolstering economic cooperation between the two nations. Organized by the Thai Chamber of Commerce, Thai Board of Trade, and the Italian Embassy in Bangkok, the forum builds on 156 years of diplomatic relations. The event was attended by business leaders from 16 Thai and 13 Italian companies, reflecting the strong economic ties, with the total trading volume between Thailand and Italy reaching US$5.06 billion (190 billion baht) in 2023. Thailand's Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni had recently discussed collaborative trade and investment during a visit in May, with Meloni scheduled to visit Thailand in February 2025 to advance these discussions further. The forum saw the presence of H.E. Paolo Dionisi, the Italian ambassador to Thailand, and H.E. Puttaporn Ewtoksan, Thai ambassador to Italy. Busaba Chirathivat, ITBF co-chair and advisor to Central Group, commented on the forum's significance: “The forum serves as a platform for executives from the private sectors of both countries to present their businesses’ strengths and potential, aiming to forge stronger partnerships that can propel target industries in a variety of areas.” Italy is Thailand's 24th commercial partner and third among EU partners. The forum's goal is to deepen trade and investment ties, fostering tangible collaboration. Thawatchai Setthachinda, Vice-President of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, stressed the importance of Unioncamere, the Italian Union of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Crafts, and Agriculture, in supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across sectors like food, fashion, and lifestyle. Italian firms at the forum included Italmobiliare, Intesa Sanpaolo, Ferrero, and Pirelli, among others. Thai participants included Central Group, Mitr Phol Group, Bangkok Bank, and Thai Union Group. The longstanding forum underscores the commitment of both nations to enhance economic cooperation, boosting opportunities for increased trade and investment. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-07-06 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Faces Population Crisis: Minister Calls for Action Picture courtesy: Thai population online Thailand's ageing population poses significant structural challenges, according to Varawut Silpa-archa, Minister of Social Development and Human Security. Speaking at the "Thailand Strategy and Government Challenges" Forum in Bangkok on Thursday, he outlined the imminent issues and necessary measures. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331651-thailand-faces-population-crisis-minister-calls-for-action/

Thailand's ageing population poses significant structural challenges, according to Varawut Silpa-archa, Minister of Social Development and Human Security. Speaking at the "Thailand Strategy and Government Challenges" Forum in Bangkok on Thursday, he outlined the imminent issues and necessary measures. Currently, 20% of Thailand's population is elderly, classifying it as an "Aged Society." Within the next 10 to 15 years, the nation is expected to transition to a "Super-Aged Society" similarly to Japan, with an ageing rate projected at 30%. This shift is driven by a low birth rate, averaging 500,000 births annually and an average of just one child per woman—lagging behind even Japan's figures. The condition surfaces multiple family and societal changes. "The structure of Thai families is shifting," said Varawut. He explained that smaller families and fewer children result in diminishing intergenerational support. Traditional family roles weaken, leading to more single-parent households and elderly individuals living alone. This creates a burden on the working-age population, who must look after children, themselves, and ageing parents simultaneously. In five to ten years, today's 50-59-year-olds will themselves be elderly, with responsibilities for parents over 80 years old. This demographic change hints at deep economic ramifications. The national population is forecasted to drop from 70 million to 58.26 million within 25 years. Coupled with the shrinking workforce, this signifies potential for increased social support expenditures, which could strain government budgets. Varawut announced that the Ministry has introduced a "5x5 Policy" to tackle the crisis, approved by the Cabinet on April 2, 2024. The policy emphasises five strategies, each with five key measures, aimed at adjusting to these challenges: 1. Empowering the working-age population to form and sustain families. 2. Enhancing child quality through life skills and development. 3. Leveraging the elderly's experience for societal and economic contribution. 4. Creating opportunities and value for people with disabilities. 5. Establishing a supportive environment for family life and sustainability. "Our approach aims to leave no one behind, using various strategies to harness untapped potential across all demographics," Varawut emphasised. He concluded by urging the media to help drive Thai society toward sustainable stability. Picture courtesy: Thai population online -- 2024-07-06 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Election Commission Urged to Nullify Senate Race Over Alleged Rigging File photo courtesy: Wikipedia The Election Commission (EC) was today urged to annul last month’s senatorial election due to alleged pre-planned electoral rigging, particularly centred in Buriram. Defeated candidate Patrapong Supaksa filed a formal complaint, requesting an immediate cancellation and subsequent new election. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331646-election-commission-urged-to-nullify-senate-race-over-alleged-rigging/

The Election Commission (EC) was today urged to annul last month’s senatorial election due to alleged pre-planned electoral rigging, particularly centred in Buriram. Defeated candidate Patrapong Supaksa filed a formal complaint, requesting an immediate cancellation and subsequent new election. Patrapong claims that 14 elected senators from Buriram, aligned with the Bhumjaithai Party, under the leadership of Newin Chidchob, were embroiled in rigging plots. He argues that many falsely declared their professional backgrounds, essential for the diverse representation mandated by Thailand's 20-category profession system. According to Patrapong, several senators claimed affiliations with professions they do not truthfully practice, violating legal prerequisites for candidacy. This misrepresentation allegedly facilitated bloc-vote rigging. The EC has postponed the ratification of all 200 senators-designate and 100 reserves while investigating the claims. The crux of the allegations involves unnamed political operatives linked to Bhumjaithai, who orchestrated these riggings. It is alleged that certain candidates received clandestine voting instructions during prior hotel meetings before the final election stage on June 26. Despite these accusations, the EC might proceed with ratifying the senators soon. Those found to have breached election laws could face judicial suspension from their legislative duties. This unfolding situation casts a spotlight on Thailand's electoral integrity, particularly the role of political machinations in shaping legislative bodies. Should the claims hold, it could lead to significant reforms or rerun elections, aiming for true representation and restoring public confidence. Patrapong’s push for annulment underscores a broader call for transparency and fairness in Thailand's democracy. Observers will closely watch the EC's next moves, which could set crucial precedents for future elections. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-07-06 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Bhumjaithai Party Advisor Seeks Caution on Cannabis Reclassification Picture courtesy: Daily News Mr. Supachai Jaisamut, advisor to Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, voiced concerns during a seminar on the future of cannabis in Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331644-bhumjaithai-party-advisor-seeks-caution-on-cannabis-reclassification/

Mr. Supachai Jaisamut, advisor to Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, voiced concerns during a seminar on the future of cannabis in Thailand. As the former chairman of the committee responsible for the Cannabis and Hemp Act, Supachai reiterated that the Bhumjaithai Party remains steadfast in its initial ideology. The party has consistently aimed to ensure that cannabis benefits citizens, particularly in medical, health, and economic applications. Supachai underscored the party's commitment, highlighting their efforts to regulate THC extract levels to be no more than 0.2%. He questioned the rationale behind suggestions to reclassify cannabis as a narcotic, emphasising that any such move should be backed by substantial justification. He noted that the Bhumjaithai Party's actions are rooted in public benefit and the responsibilities they hold as representatives. The party's work on cannabis legislation aims to serve the people, and any notion of internal conflict is misplaced. Echoing the party's dedication, Supachai believes the duty of overseeing cannabis should remain aligned with their principles. He reaffirmed that party leader Anutin Charnvirakul and the members remain firm in their stance on cannabis. Despite speculation, the party consistently advocates for the voices of the public. Despite the looming threat of cannabis being reclassified as a narcotic, Supachai stressed that such a move would neither resolve the underlying issues nor respect the voices of the approximately 5 million users. Supachai lamented that politics had stalled progress on cannabis legislation but expressed readiness to continue the fight. He remains hopeful that with appropriate legal controls, cannabis can transition back to a legal status, benefiting sectors like medicine, industry, and the economy. In his concluding remarks, Supachai urged all parties to move past biases and focus on public welfare, centred on the benefits that a regulated cannabis industry could provide. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-07-06 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya Contractors Finally Make Headway on Delayed Sukhumvit Road Projects Picture courtesy: Facebook สายตรงนายกเมืองพัทยา After months of delays and public frustration, much-awaited roadworks on four major intersections of Sukhumvit Road in Pattaya have seen significant progress. This includes the completion of the notoriously stalled projects at Motorway Intersection and North Pattaya Intersection. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331643-pattaya-contractors-finally-make-headway-on-delayed-sukhumvit-road-projects/