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Police in Pathum Thani arrested a woman who attacked locals with a wooden stick and a knife, resulting in injuries including a sprained wrist for one victim and causing property damage. The suspect made incoherent statements and is currently detained for further questioning before legal proceedings start. At 9pm yesterday, June 23, Police Superintendent of Khlong Luang Police Station in Pathum Thani, Kiattisak Mitprasat, along with Deputy Superintendent Kawinvet Viriyasiriphakdi, led an operation to apprehend 38 year old Anchaleeporn Pisanthurakit, at Phahonyothin Road, in Khlong Luang District. The arrest followed a series of alarming incidents highlighted by a social media post on a Facebook page, which featured a photo of an unstable woman walking in the middle of the road. The post described her as a “time bomb in the community” and urged relevant authorities to screen and prevent such dangers. According to the post, the woman, described as small and thin, carrying a cloth bag with a wooden stick and knife, had been walking along Khlong Luang Road (between Sois 9 to 19), vandalising property and attacking unsuspecting locals. The poster recounted her previous experience with the assault suspect, describing her injuries from the incident. “Please, someone come and check this out. She appears at 5pm every day. Yesterday, she was seen in front of the 200-Year Village, rummaging through parked motorcycles. I was unlucky enough to be attacked by her. She hit my arm with a stick, nearly breaking it. I have bruises all over and a fractured wrist. I reported it to the police yesterday. She walks around Boonkhum Alley every day, seen at the pedestrian overpass.” Montri Khongart stated that following the reports, patrol and investigative officers from Khlong Luang Police Station kept an eye on the suspect to ensure public safety. Today, they spotted the suspect walking along the road. Upon seeing the police, she attempted to flee into the middle of the street but was quickly detained and brought in for questioning at Khlong Luang Police Station. Initial interrogation revealed that her statements were inconsistent and incoherent. Therefore, she is being held for further questioning by Khlong Luang Police investigators to proceed according to the law, reported KhaoSod. by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Full story: The Thaiger 2024-06-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Foreign man caught urinating on tuk tuk amid traffic jam in Phuket by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ เบส ซาโจ้ A foreign man was caught on camera taking the p*ss on a red tuk tuk in the Patong neighbourhood of Phuket on Friday. A video of the incident quickly went viral on Thai social media on Friday, June 21. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330533-foreign-man-caught-urinating-on-tuk-tuk-amid-traffic-jam-in-phuket/

A foreign man was caught on camera taking the p*ss on a red tuk tuk in the Patong neighbourhood of Phuket on Friday. A video of the incident quickly went viral on Thai social media on Friday, June 21. A Thai baht bus driver shared the video on his Facebook account, เบส ซาโจ้, on Friday with a caption that read, “Mobile toilet is everywhere in Patong. I’m sick of this kind of tourist.” In the video, two foreign tourists were seen sitting opposite each other on the red tuk tuk. One of them was drinking a can of beer, while the other, in a red shirt, was urinating directly onto the vehicle. The foreign man dared to urinate even though the tuk tuk was in a traffic jam, where other motorists could clearly see his actions. The video drew a lot of complaints about the foreign man in the comments section. “A variety of tourists we have to meet each day.” “Bad behaviour.” “Mobile toilet…” “Don’t poop, OK?” “This man behaves worse than a dog. The animal chooses a suitable spot to pee, but he doesn’t.” “Charge him 10,000 baht for cleaning!” In a similar report in March, a foreign woman faced criticism after she urinated on the footpath of Bangla Road in Phuket while intoxicated. She was caught on a viral video pulling off her pants and urinating near a signpost despite many witnesses staring at her. Another incident took place at the Temple of the Emerald Buddha in Bangkok in May when a couple, believed to be Chinese, let their daughter urinate in public outside the Grand Palace. Some Thai netizens felt the girl was too young to understand the rules, while others said her parents were old enough and should have controlled their child. In May of last year, a transwoman was criticised for urinating by the roadside near Lumpini Police Station. Her friend did not warn her about the inappropriate action but instead took a video of her and shared it on social media platforms. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ เบส ซาโจ้ Full story: The Thaiger 2024-06-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Suspect in Sattahip vanishes from police station after alcohol theft by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod A daring escape took place yesterday at Sattahip Police Station when a suspect was whisked away by an accomplice, leaving police scrambling for clues. The suspect, who had been apprehended for stealing alcohol from a local mall, managed to flee the scene with the help of a man on a motorcycle. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330528-suspect-in-sattahip-vanishes-from-police-station-after-alcohol-theft/

A daring escape took place yesterday at Sattahip Police Station when a suspect was whisked away by an accomplice, leaving police scrambling for clues. The suspect, who had been apprehended for stealing alcohol from a local mall, managed to flee the scene with the help of a man on a motorcycle. At 1.52pm, the Chief of Sattahip Police Station in Chon Buri, Thanapol Klin Kesor, received a report about the dramatic escape. The man, described as being between 35 and 40 years old with blond hair, a short back and sides haircut, and a moustache, rode a black Honda motorcycle with an unknown license plate. He entered the police station under the pretence of being a relative of 20 year old Naranya Areepong, the suspect accused of theft, and managed to help her escape just as she was about to be questioned by investigators. Earlier that day, at 10.50am, Naranya had been caught by security guards at a Sattahip department store while attempting to steal two bottles of foreign alcohol, valued at 2,025 baht. The guards detained her and handed her over to the police, who then brought her to the Sattahip Police Station for further investigation and evidence collection. While waiting outside the station, Naranya was approached by the man on the motorcycle. Claiming to be a relative, he asked to speak with her briefly. Seizing the opportunity, Naranya quickly jumped onto the motorcycle, and the duo sped away from the scene, heading towards Pattaya. Police officers immediately launched a pursuit, coordinating with nearby stations to set up roadblocks and track the fugitives. Despite their efforts, the pair managed to evade capture. Investigators are now reviewing CCTV footage from the area, hoping to identify and locate the suspects. The department store has officially filed a complaint against Naranya for theft, and police are urging anyone with information about the two Sattahip suspects to come forward. As the search continues, police are focusing on identifying the man on the motorcycle, whose actions facilitated Naranya’s escape, reported KhaoSod. by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Full story: The Thaiger 2024-06-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Body of missing Belgian man found after ignoring red flag in Phuket byf Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ A Belgian man drowned after ignoring a red flag warning on Freedom Beach in Phuket. Thai netizens’ opinions were divided. Some expressed condolences to his family, while others condemned him for being reckless and causing trouble to rescuers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330527-body-of-missing-belgian-man-found-after-ignoring-red-flag-in-phuket/

A Belgian man drowned after ignoring a red flag warning on Freedom Beach in Phuket. Thai netizens’ opinions were divided. Some expressed condolences to his family, while others condemned him for being reckless and causing trouble to rescuers. According to a Phuket Times report on June 22, two accidents were reported on Kata and Freedom beaches. In the first incident, two victims got into trouble in the sea after violating the warning sign on Kata Beach but lifeguards managed to help them safely. Four other victims ignored the red flag on Kata Beach on the same day. Among the four individuals involved in the incident, two were identified as a Yemeni man and a Belgian man, while the other two chose to keep their nationalities private. Lifeguards successfully rescued three of the victims, but the Belgian man remained missing. Rescue teams have been searching for the Belgian man, identified as 28 year old Luvovadio Allan Deraut, since the day of the incident, but have so far been unsuccessful in locating him. The strong waves and winds have raised concerns among Thai netizens for the safety of the rescue team. Many have expressed their support and encouragement for the rescuers, while others have criticised the tourists for recklessly endangering the lives of the rescue workers. “I feel sorry for the rescuers who have to be in danger because of these ignorant people. There was a red flag on the beach. Some of the flags could not even stand the strong wind, why did you dare to swim?” “I would like to give encouragement to all lifeguards on the beach.” “I think authorities must close all the beaches or find a better solution. If not, more losses will be reported.” “Those tourists walked into danger by themselves.” “Why are foreigners so stubborn? Relevant authorities must put up a big sign to explain the red flag. Some beachgoers may not understand its meaning.” The Phuket Times reported today, June 24, that the body of Deraut was washed up on Freedom Beach at about 4.30am after two days of disappearance. His body will be transferred to a hospital for an autopsy. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ Full story: The Thaiger 2024-06-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Richard Burrows, Phuket's 'Peter Smith', faces 30 more charges Richard John Ramsey Burrows, now aged 80, failed to turn up for a trial at Chester Crown Court in 1997. Picture courtesy: Liverpool Echo A man arrested at Heathrow Airport after nearly three decades on the run is now facing almost 30 more charges. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330526-richard-burrows-phukets-peter-smith-faces-30-more-charges/

A man arrested at Heathrow Airport after nearly three decades on the run is now facing almost 30 more charges. Richard Burrows, 80, was apprehended on 28th March upon his return from Thailand. He had been a fugitive since December 1997, when he failed to show up at Chester Crown Court. Richard Burrows was arrested at Heathrow Airport. Picture courtesy: Mirror Burrows was originally due to stand trial for two counts of buggery and 11 counts of indecent assault. The initial charges originated from allegations of abuse at a children’s home in Congleton, Cheshire, dating back to 1969-1971, and in the West Midlands from 1971-1981. Following his recent arrest, Burrows made a court appearance on 2nd April and was remanded in custody. Now, further investigations have led to the Crown Prosecution Service authorising an additional 30 charges against him. The new charges include: - 20 counts of indecent assault, - 1 count of buggery, - 3 counts of making indecent images of children, relating to one Category A image, two Category B images, and one Category C image, - 4 counts of possessing a false identity document with intent. These additional charges involve 11 more victims, and the offences occurred between 1966 and 1996, spanning Cheshire, the West Midlands, and West Mercia. All charges are set to be heard at Chester Crown Court on 2nd August. Det. Chief Inspector Ian Smith of Cheshire Police stated, “We are committed to seeking justice, irrespective of how much time has passed. This case demonstrates our dedication to pursuing those who commit such serious offences.” The case has brought renewed attention to historical abuse investigations and the importance of bringing long-seeking justice to victims. Burrows remains in custody as the legal proceedings continue to unfold. The case is expected to be closely followed by both the media and public, given the extensive time span and nature of the charges involved. Top: Richard John Ramsey Burrows, now aged 80, failed to turn up for a trial at Chester Crown Court in 1997. Picture courtesy: Liverpool Echo -- 2024-06-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Trang Schools Ordered to Stop Using Water Coolers After Student Dies from Electrocution Picture courtesy: Mono News In a distressing event, a male student died from an electric shock at a secondary school in Nam Ron Subdistrict, Kantang District, Trang Province. The tragedy struck during the school's sports day on Friday, June 21. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330519-trang-schools-ordered-to-stop-using-water-coolers-after-student-dies-from-electrocution/

In a distressing event, a male student died from an electric shock at a secondary school in Nam Ron Subdistrict, Kantang District, Trang Province. The tragedy struck during the school's sports day on Friday, June 21. On June 23, Chainarong Changruea, Director of the Secondary Educational Service Area Office (Trang, Krabi), disclosed preliminary findings. The malfunctioning water cooler involved had not been used for an extended period. It was connected to a breaker that managed the electrical system located behind it. During the incident, the victim, who was passing by, was soaked due to heavy rain. The concrete floor beneath him was also wet, leading to a suspected short circuit from the water cooler causing electricity to flow onto the wet surface, resulting in the fatal shock. Normally, schools are mandated to conduct regular inspections of water coolers. The most recent inspection occurred before the start of the latest academic term, focusing on child safety. Machines in service for a long time were supposed to be decommissioned immediately. Despite these measures, the unfortunate event occurred. In light of this tragedy, Mr. Chainarong has ordered all secondary schools within his jurisdiction to cease using water coolers immediately. This suspension will remain until a thorough re-inspection is completed, and new, stringent safety measures are implemented. To support the grieving family, the school has provided an initial sum of 20,000 baht and will also assist fully with funeral arrangements. Mr. Chainarong, alongside the Governor of Trang Province and officials from Social Development and Human Security, paid their respects at the funeral, offering their deepest condolences to the bereaved family. An investigation committee has been created to uncover the specifics of the accident. If any neglect or fault is found, appropriate actions will be taken while ensuring fairness to all involved. TOP Picture courtesy: Mono News -- 2024-06-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand's House Approves 3.75 Trillion Baht Budget for 2025 File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand's House of Representatives has approved the 3.75-trillion-baht budget for the 2025 fiscal year. The decision came after a parliament session that saw 311 votes in favour, 175 against, and two abstentions. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330515-thailands-house-approves-375-trillion-baht-budget-for-2025/

Thailand's House of Representatives has approved the 3.75-trillion-baht budget for the 2025 fiscal year. The decision came after a parliament session that saw 311 votes in favour, 175 against, and two abstentions. A 72-member House committee, including both government and opposition figures, will now scrutinise the bill over the next 30 days. Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai expressed gratitude towards the MPs and urged the committee to incorporate their recommendations. "The government will ensure the limited budget is spent efficiently and in the best interest of the public," Phumtham stated, emphasising the spending plan's aim to support economic growth. Ahead of the vote, Move Forward Party (MFP) chief adviser Pita Limjaroenrat offered a five-point proposal to the government. His suggestions included a comprehensive plan for revenue collection and debt management, tax reform, and a transparent budget-making process. Pita also recommended that the special House committee's work should be as transparent as possible, encouraging public observation. The Cabinet had initially approved the 3.75-trillion-baht (US$102 billion) budget on May 28. The fiscal year will commence on 1 October and run until 30 September next year. The budget will be funded by 2.88 trillion baht (US$78 billion) in tax revenue, along with a loan to cover a deficit of about 865 billion baht (US$23.6 billion). A notable portion of the budget, totalling 152.7 billion baht (US$4 billion), is allocated for a digital wallet handout programme worth 500 billion baht (US$13.6 billion). Despite facing a higher deficit this year, the government has allocated 908 billion baht (US$24.7 billion) for investment—a 27.9% increase from the 2024 fiscal year, as reported by Bangkok Post. As the committee begins its work, all eyes will be on how effectively this massive budget will be managed to foster economic growth and public welfare. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-06-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Issues Urgent Flash Flood and Strong Wind Alerts File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand’s Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department (DPMD) has issued an urgent alert for 43 provinces to brace for potential flash floods, forest runoff, and strong winds. The warning is effective from today through the upcoming three days. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330512-thailand-issues-urgent-flash-flood-and-strong-wind-alerts/

Thailand’s Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department (DPMD) has issued an urgent alert for 43 provinces to brace for potential flash floods, forest runoff, and strong winds. The warning is effective from today through the upcoming three days. Chaiwat Junthirapong, Director-General of DPMD, announced that the Central Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Division is closely monitoring weather conditions. According to the Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD), an increase in rainfall across the country is expected. Some areas may experience heavy to very heavy rain, leading to flash floods and forest runoff. Strong winds in the Andaman Sea could see waves reaching 2 to 3 metres, with stormy areas experiencing waves over 3 metres. The provinces under alert for flash floods and forest runoff include eleven in the north: Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lamphun, Lampang, Phayao, Phrae, Nan, Uttaradit, Tak, and Phitsanulok. Fourteen provinces in the northeast are also warned: Loei, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Nong Bua Lamphu, Udon Thani, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Kalasin, Mukdahan, Roi Et, Yasothon, Amnat Charoen, Nakhon Ratchasima, Buriram, Surin, Sisaket, and Ubon Ratchathani. Provinces in the central region, including Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Nakhon Nayok, Prachin Buri, Chachoengsao, Chon Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat, are also on alert. In the south, Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, Krabi, and Trang are notified. Additionally, six southern provinces are prepped for strong winds: Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, Krabi, Trang, and Satun. The DPMD has coordinated with local authorities to deploy personnel to monitor the situation rigorously. They are tracking rainfall, with emergency machinery and response teams on standby. Weather officials are also closely monitoring natural tourist attractions like caves and waterfalls. Provincial governors have the authority to issue warnings and close off these areas if necessary. For coastal regions, authorities will advise against swimming during strong winds and may prohibit vessels from leaving shore. The Marine Department, Navy, and Marine Police are on alert to notify boat operators. Residents are urged to stay informed via the THAI DISASTER ALERT application. Those in distress can seek help through the Line app ปภ.รับแจ้งเหตุ1784, by adding Line ID @1784DDPM, or by calling the safety hotline at 1784, available 24/7. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-06-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Acts Against 'Price-Dumping Tours' to Safeguard Tourism File photo courtesy: Wikipedia The Thai Ministry of Tourism and Sports has launched a decisive effort to combat "Price-dumping Tours," an issue that mirrors the notorious zero-dollar tour model utilised by some Chinese firms with Thai collaborators. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330511-thailand-acts-against-price-dumping-tours-to-safeguard-tourism/

The Thai Ministry of Tourism and Sports has launched a decisive effort to combat "Price-dumping Tours," an issue that mirrors the notorious zero-dollar tour model utilised by some Chinese firms with Thai collaborators. This crackdown follows concerns raised directly with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin by Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn, President of the Association of Thai Travel Agents. Sisdivachr highlighted how these dubious tour operations could monopolise Thailand’s vital tourism industry, which represents 12% of the nation's GDP. These scams damage the country's reputation and result in significant tax revenue losses for the government. Unscrupulous operators pose as local businesses to lure tourists with enticingly cheap packages but then force them to buy overpriced goods from certain stores, cast a shadow over Thailand’s tourism image and hurt genuine local businesses. Originally targeting Chinese tourists, these scams have now broadened their reach to include Russians and Indians. In response, the Ministry has set up the Joint Operations Centre to address these challenges, in collaboration with five key agencies: the Office of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, the Department of Business Development, the Department of Special Investigation, the Tourist Police Bureau, and the Immigration Bureau. Over the past six months, the Department of Tourism has ramped up inspections across all major tourist areas, bringing several offenders to justice. Of the more than 30 tour businesses inspected, numerous violations were discovered, resulting in the revocation of licences and the closure of 10 companies. Thai nationals found acting as nominees for these fraudulent operations will face severe penalties, including a five-year ban on running tour businesses and legal repercussions under foreign business operations laws. Both local nominees and their foreign collaborators could face imprisonment. Further action has also been taken against over 10 foreigners illegally operating as unlicensed tour guides. The department plans to continue inspecting suspicious operators and urges the public to report any violations via telephone numbers 02-141-3264 or 02-141-3119. The Thai government is vigorously pursuing policies to invigorate the tourism sector, aiming to generate 3.5 trillion baht in total tourism revenue this year, up from the initial target of 3 trillion baht. These efforts aim to cement Thailand's status as a regional tourism hub and an attractive destination for global tourists. TOP: File photo courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-06-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Defence Budget Criticized for Lack of Modernisation Moves File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand’s announcement of its 2025 defense budget has sparked controversy, with critics pointing to a missed chance for critical military reforms and modernization. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330510-thai-defence-budget-criticized-for-lack-of-modernisation-moves/

Thailand’s announcement of its 2025 defense budget has sparked controversy, with critics pointing to a missed chance for critical military reforms and modernization. Despite a slight increase to 200.9 billion baht, up 2.6% from the previous year, over half the budget is earmarked for personnel costs, leaving little room for advances in defense technology. The Defense Ministry’s proposal for the next fiscal year represents 5.3% of the total government expenditure of 3.7 trillion baht. Opposition figures, including Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn of the Move Forward Party, argue that this allocation prioritizes salaries and welfare over upgrading the armed forces' capabilities. He highlighted that the Army plans to spend 195 million baht on repairing armored vehicles for border operations, a figure he says is inadequate given the current state of readiness. A key issue raised in parliamentary debates has been the high number of inactive high-ranking officers. Despite a natural reduction of personnel costs due to retirements, opposition MPs accuse Defense Minister Sutin Klungsang of lacking a decisive plan to scale down the military hierarchy. Approximately 1,200 generals are reportedly still in service, with calls for a more strategic overhaul to eliminate redundancies and merge overlapping units. Another area of concern is the slow adoption of modern defense technologies. The opposition has pushed for increased investment in unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and artificial intelligence for surveillance, especially along borders where human and drug trafficking are rampant. The Army’s budget request includes only modest amounts for UAVs and anti-drone systems, reflecting, according to critics, a lack of a coherent drone operation strategy. Further criticism was aimed at the insufficient budget for research and development, a mere 0.37% of the total defense budget. The opposition contends that now is the time to focus on home-grown defense technologies, given the low likelihood of major military threats in the near future. Sutin Klungsang defended his ministry's approach, mentioning ongoing efforts to foster the local defense industry. There is, however, a perceived reluctance within the military to adopt domestically produced hardware, despite its potential for export. The Defence Technology Institute’s request for an increased budget, mainly for research and development, underscores the urgent need for modernization. As the debate continues, it is clear that the direction of Thailand's defense priorities remains a contentious issue. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-06-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Monday 24 June 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330507-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-monday-24-june-2024/

The government has announced that hotel operators will continue to be exempt from paying a 40-baht-per-room annual fee for a further two years, the idea is to support the recovery of the tourism sector, the cost to government will be 54 million baht over the next two years. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is vowing to push for the high-speed railway project linking three main airports to ensure the success of the Eastern Economic Corridor 224 billion baht railway The PM said delays would deter investment in the region, and therefore the project is crucial for economic growth. The high-speed railway linking Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi with U-Tapao airport was originally scheduled to be launched this year 2024. A group called 'Thai Climate Justice for All' is drafting a law to help curb greenhouse gas emissions. They believe climate goals can be achieved sooner than planned if the government quickly phases out fossil fuels, boosts renewable energy production, and promotes eco-agriculture over single-crop plantations. The bill also aims to prevent so-called "greenwashing" of carbon credits, If passed, the law would implement a carbon tax in industries such as petrochemicals. The group needs 10,000 signatures for the bill to be read in parliament. Ministry of Tourism and Sports expects Thailand to earn 7.5 billion baht from foreign film productions this year, up 10% on last year. Thai K-pop singer "Lisa" Manoban will feature in the series ‘White Lotus’ being shot in Bangkok, Koh Samui and Phuket. The minister said foreign film productions not only generate revenue but also attract tourists to film locations. Around the region. Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr said his country is not in the business of instigating wars and will always aim to settle disputes peacefully, amid escalating maritime confrontations with China. President Marcos was speaking to troops of the Western Command unit in charge of overseeing the South China Sea. Todays’ WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: Cloudy with thunderstorms 32 C degrees celsius Bangkok: Cloudy with showers 31 Pattaya: Cloudy with showers 30 Phuket and the south: Cloudy with showers 30 Hua Hin: Cloudy with isolated showers 30 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, The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Windy.com. Wunderground.com -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-06-24 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Extends Free Tourist Insurance Until Year-End Sermsak Pongpanich, Minister of Tourism and Sports. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand's Ministry of Tourism and Sports has extended its free insurance campaign for international visitors until the end of December. Originally slated to expire on August 31st, the program has been in place since January 1st and offers critical coverage for accidents, emergencies, and deaths. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330506-thailand-extends-free-tourist-insurance-until-year-end/

Thailand's Ministry of Tourism and Sports has extended its free insurance campaign for international visitors until the end of December. Originally slated to expire on August 31st, the program has been in place since January 1st and offers critical coverage for accidents, emergencies, and deaths. The extended insurance program provides substantial coverage: up to 1 million baht for cases of death, 300,000 baht for incidents resulting in permanent disabilities or organ loss, and up to 500,000 baht for medical expenses due to accidents. This initiative aims to bolster tourists' confidence by ensuring they have financial protection during their stay. Sermsak Pongpanit, Tourism and Sports Minister, emphasized the program’s importance in assisting foreign visitors during emergencies, including accidents, crimes, and natural disasters. This move is expected to make Thailand an even more attractive destination for international tourists, fostering a sense of security and commitment to visitor well-being. However, coverage is not provided if tourists have insurance from their travel providers or if the place of accommodation or tourist attraction offers independent insurance. The scheme intends to fill gaps left by tourists' current insurance plans, giving them peace of mind without incurring additional costs. This year-long extension continues to support Thailand's tourism sector, which has faced significant challenges due to global economic uncertainties and the lingering effects of the pandemic. By maintaining this insurance coverage, Thailand aims to reassure potential visitors and stimulate its recovering tourism industry. With this initiative, the government hopes that tourists can enjoy their travel experience without worrying about unexpected financial burdens due to unforeseen circumstances, boosting overall visitor numbers and extending stays. The combination of natural beauty, rich culture, and now, enhanced safety measures, makes Thailand an increasingly appealing destination for global travellers. TOP: Sermsak Pongpanich, Minister of Tourism and Sports. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-06-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Ex-PM Abhisit: Modern Legal Reforms Crucial for Thailand’s Economy Abhisit Vejjajiva. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand's economy is facing severe stagnation and cannot be revived merely through short-term fiscal measures, says former prime minister Abhisit Vejjajiva. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330505-ex-pm-abhisit-modern-legal-reforms-crucial-for-thailand’s-economy/

Abhisit Vejjajiva. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand's economy is facing severe stagnation and cannot be revived merely through short-term fiscal measures, says former prime minister Abhisit Vejjajiva. The country's current economic policies, including the government's 500-billion-baht digital money handout scheme, are expected to yield results for only one or two quarters at best. In an interview with the Thai media, Abhisit underscored the necessity of updating and amending outdated laws to support the growth of modern businesses, especially those focused on clean energy and the green economy. These reforms, he asserts, are essential for Thailand to overcome its economic inertia and attract international investment. Abhisit criticised the current government led by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, stating that its efforts to entice global businesses have not been as successful as anticipated. The former PM referenced Srettha's overseas meetings, which have so far failed to produce significant investment. Abhisit highlighted that Thailand's outdated legislative framework is a major deterrent for foreign investors who are looking for a clear and robust business direction, particularly in modern sectors like technology and clean energy. Investors are also wary due to the government's lack of clarity regarding Thailand’s future business environment. The former PM pointed out that even large tech companies like Microsoft have shown reluctance in committing to substantial investments in Thailand. In contrast, they have announced clear plans for countries like Indonesia and Malaysia. Abhisit also argued that the current administration is focussing on sectors with minimal growth potential while neglecting critical structural issues. High household debt and uneven consumer purchasing power are among the problems exacerbating the economic stagnation, he said. To address these deep-rooted issues, Abhisit called for comprehensive legal reforms. He noted that the government’s digital wallet scheme and the increase of the minimum wage to 400 baht per day would also require legal amendments. The coalition government’s lack of unity further complicates efforts to revive the economy, according to Abhisit. He warned that without tackling the structural problems, the economy would likely falter again after the initial impact of any short-term stimulus fades away. In response to these criticisms, Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul acknowledged the sluggish economic conditions and reiterated the need for the digital wallet handouts to re-energize the economy. Prime Minister Srettha, meanwhile, promised additional economic measures, to be announced later this month. As Thailand endeavours to navigate its economic challenges, the call for modernising its legal framework and adopting a long-term strategy appears increasingly urgent. -- 2024-06-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe