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Rise in International School Costs in Thailand Picture courtesy: National News Bureau of Thailand Parents of students in Thailand's international schools are facing heftier bills as education costs climbed to 2.75 billion baht in 2024. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330503-rise-in-international-school-costs-in-thailand/

Parents of students in Thailand's international schools are facing heftier bills as education costs climbed to 2.75 billion baht in 2024. This uptick, a 1.9% increase from the previous year, covers essentials like learning materials, uniforms, and shoes. There's also been a slight decline in spending on cram schools and special training, down by 0.7% to 1.49 billion baht, as parents trimmed back on extracurricular activities amid economic uncertainties. Interestingly, the country's international school sector is seeing expansion. This year alone, there's been a 3.33% increase in the number of schools, with the total now standing at 248. Eight new international schools have opened, reflecting growing competition, particularly in Bangkok's outskirts. This area has witnessed increased property sales to wealthy buyers from CLMV countries (Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Vietnam), fuelling demand for international education. Bangkok remains a focal point for some of Thailand's priciest international schools. Leading the pack is Shrewsbury International School Bangkok, followed by International School Bangkok and NIST International School Bangkok. Other noteworthy mentions include King’s College School Bangkok and Harrow International School Bangkok, which also feature prominently in the top ten for tuition fees. This surge in costs underscores the financial strain on parents striving to provide quality education under the current economic climate. The rising trend raises questions about the sustainability and accessibility of international education for a broader demographic. As Thailand continues to attract expatriates and affluent residents from neighbouring countries, it appears that the demand—and costs—of international schooling will only keep climbing, challenging both parents and policymakers to find balanced solutions for educational access. Picture courtesy: National News Bureau of Thailand -- 2024-06-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Rolls Out “Dee-Delivery” Regulations for Shopper Protection Picture courtesy: National News Bureau of Thailand The Thai government has announced new regulations known as “Dee-Delivery” to better protect online shoppers. Minister of the Prime Minister's Office, Jiraporn Sinthuprai, revealed these measures aimed at enhancing transparency and combating online fraud while speaking at a press conference. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330502-thailand-rolls-out-“dee-delivery”-regulations-for-shopper-protection/

The Thai government has announced new regulations known as “Dee-Delivery” to better protect online shoppers. Minister of the Prime Minister's Office, Jiraporn Sinthuprai, revealed these measures aimed at enhancing transparency and combating online fraud while speaking at a press conference. Taking effect this July, as soon as they are published in the Royal Gazette, these regulations will usher in stricter oversight of online transactions. Delivery companies will now be required to disclose detailed information about their employees and sellers. Additionally, consumers will be able to inspect products before payment and can also secure refunds within five days if the items fail to meet their expectations. These measures respond to numerous complaints registered with the Office of the Consumer Protection Board (OCPB). Issues have included unsolicited parcels demanding payment upon delivery and complications in obtaining refunds for returned items. To address these, the new regulations mandate that delivery companies hold payments for five days, giving consumers ample time to evaluate their purchases and initiate returns if necessary. Companies will also need to provide complete details concerning the sender and the recipient, as well as a tracking number for every parcel. This information allows consumers to reliably track their deliveries and reject any unsatisfactory goods, thus offering an extra layer of security. Minister Jiraporn emphasised that the “Dee-Delivery” service would make Thailand's online marketplaces safer and more accountable, fostering a secure and fair shopping environment for all. By implementing these changes, Thailand aims to pave the way for improved consumer confidence and enhanced protection in the rapidly growing world of e-commerce. Picture courtesy: National News Bureau of Thailand -- 2024-06-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Welcomes 16 Million Tourists in 2024, Sees Surge in Middle Eastern Visitors By Aim Tanakorn Thailand recorded 16 million foreign tourists from January 1st to June 16th of this year, according to the figures released by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330495-thailand-welcomes-16-million-tourists-in-2024-sees-surge-in-middle-eastern-visitors/

Thailand recorded 16 million foreign tourists from January 1st to June 16th of this year, according to the figures released by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. The ministry on June 19th reported that the Eid al-Adha Islamic holiday led to a significant 97.82% increase in tourists from the Middle East. There were also increases in tourists from Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore by 32.99%, 37.70%, and 17.94% respectively. Last week, Thailand welcomed 657,362 foreign tourists, an increase of 65,024 or 10.98% from the previous week, averaging 93,909 foreign tourists per day. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-06-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai PM Srettha Justifies Extensive Foreign Travel Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin defended his frequent globe-trotting during his first 10 months as Thailand’s leader, in remarks aired in a television broadcast today (June 22). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330494-thai-pm-srettha-justifies-extensive-foreign-travel/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin defended his frequent globe-trotting during his first 10 months as Thailand’s leader, in remarks aired in a television broadcast today (June 22). Since taking office in August last year, Srettha has made 15 overseas visits, sparking public criticism and prompting him to pledge a two-month travel hiatus in March. He explained that many of these trips were unavoidable due to official commitments, such as meetings of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and visits to pivotal nations like China and Japan. A notable trip to Sri Lanka was aimed at signing a free trade pact. Described as “Thailand’s salesman,” Srettha’s primary goal is to attract foreign investment. He stressed that his international engagements are crucial for fostering trade and investment opportunities. “It’s necessary to go,” he asserted in the pre-recorded remarks, adding that “Thailand does not have a conflict with any nation, and all the countries I travelled to are keen on investing in Thailand.” Countries he visited include several EU states, Australia, China, and the US. Srettha noted that these nations seek to invest in Thailand due to its fair and neutral stance, even when they have disagreements among themselves. This neutrality ensures production bases and supply chains remain stable even if geopolitical tensions arise. Additionally, Srettha highlighted Thailand’s ambition to become an aviation hub. Plans are underway to expand Suvarnabhumi Airport’s capacity from 60 million to 150 million passengers by constructing an additional terminal and runways. He also touched upon the implementation of the Land Bridge megaproject in Thailand's upper southern region, set to start in 2025 and finish in 2030. This project aims to shorten cargo vessel routes, allowing ships to bypass the Malacca Strait in Singapore. It would also provide a neutral shipping route in case of future conflicts. Srettha’s defence underscores the strategic importance of his international engagements, despite the criticism at home. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-06-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Driver Charged after Threatening Motorbike Rider with a Sword During a Road Rage Incident By Goongnang Suksawat A car driver was arrested after he threatened a motorbike rider with a sword during a road rage incident in Wichit. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330493-driver-charged-after-threatening-motorbike-rider-with-a-sword-during-a-road-rage-incident/

A car driver was arrested after he threatened a motorbike rider with a sword during a road rage incident in Wichit. A photo of the car driver holding a sword near a motorbike rider went viral on social media on Friday (June 21st) Wichit Police Deputy Chief Lieutenant Colonel Atthawat Suwannarat told the Phuket Express. Law enforcement tracked down and finally found the Thai car driver. He was called to the Wichit Police Station and he told police that there was a road rage incident before both drivers stopped their vehicles on the road. The car driver took out a sword but eventually they both drove away from the area of the incident. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-06-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai workers begin to return to Israel – Labour minister The first 200 Thais to return to work in Israel’s agricultural sector will leave on Tuesday, Labour Minister Pipat Ratchakitprakarn said yesterday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330492-thai-workers-begin-to-return-to-israel-–-labour-minister/

The first 200 Thais to return to work in Israel’s agricultural sector will leave on Tuesday, Labour Minister Pipat Ratchakitprakarn said yesterday. They are some of about 5,000 who will go to work in the country over the next two or three months, Pipat said. Tel Aviv is seeking to recruit 10,000 foreign workers for its crucial agricultural sector and is offering 63-month contracts. The Thai workers are also being promised appropriate salaries. The return by Thai nationals to work in Israel, which is still in conflict with Hamas, comes after assurances were offered by the Israeli authorities over their safety, the minister said. Full story: Thai PBS 2024-06-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thaksin Plans Electoral Changes to Counter Move Forward's Rise Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is quietly considering a significant change to the country's electoral system in an attempt to undermine the growing influence of the Move Forward Party. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330491-thaksin-plans-electoral-changes-to-counter-move-forwards-rise/

Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is quietly considering a significant change to the country's electoral system in an attempt to undermine the growing influence of the Move Forward Party. According to sources within his Pheu Thai Party, Thaksin aims to abolish the party-list mode of electing MPs, a system that Move Forward has successfully utilised to gain substantial representation in parliament. Under the current constitution, the Thai House of Representatives is composed of 400 constituency-based MPs and 100 party-list MPs. Thaksin's proposal would see the entirety of the 500 parliamentary seats decided by constituency-based elections. This shift could potentially increase the number of constituencies from 400 to 500, making it more challenging for parties like Move Forward, which rely heavily on the party-list system, to maintain their influence. The proposition stems from Thaksin’s observation that Pheu Thai’s chances against Move Forward are slim under the current system, as evidenced by the latter's success in the previous election. In 2023, Pheu Thai and Move Forward each secured 112 constituency-based MPs, with Move Forward outperforming Pheu Thai in the party-list category by 39 to 29 seats. Sources indicate that Thaksin has been actively consulting with influential figures, colloquially known as "Big House" elements, across the provinces to consolidate his party's constituency-based power. These discussions involve current and former MPs and cabinet members who exert substantial influence either through personal popularity, charitable deeds, or discreet financial support. The move has drawn remarks from Sudarat Keyurapan, leader of the Thai Sang Thai Party, who revealed that Thaksin is leveraging his network to ensure Pheu Thai's dominance in future elections. Since his controversial release from a brief stint in jail, Thaksin has been engaging with these crucial power brokers, signalling his continued involvement in Thai politics. Thaksin’s strategy appears aimed not only at countering Move Forward but also at solidifying alliances with traditional political adversaries like Palang Pracharath and Ruam Thai Sang Chart, both of which currently support his administration. In essence, Thaksin’s blueprint is a calculated bid to reshape Thailand's electoral landscape, potentially sidelining his most formidable opponents and ensuring Pheu Thai's supremacy in the next election. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-06-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Fugitive Stark CEO arrested in Dubai, Returned to Thailand Picture courtesy: Thai PBS Fugitive Stark Corporation CEO Chanin Yensudjai was escorted back to Thailand from Dubai this morning by officers from the Department of Special Investigation (DSI), ending a year on the run in an attempt to evade charges of defrauding the public related to one of Thailand’s largest series of financial crimes. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330490-fugitive-stark-ceo-arrested-in-dubai-returned-to-thailand/

Fugitive Stark Corporation CEO Chanin Yensudjai was escorted back to Thailand from Dubai this morning by officers from the Department of Special Investigation (DSI), ending a year on the run in an attempt to evade charges of defrauding the public related to one of Thailand’s largest series of financial crimes. DSI officers travelled to Dubai to collect Chanin after his arrest by United Arab Emirates authorities. After arriving at Suvarnabhumi International Airport this morning, he was whisked away to the DSI to be questioned by Pol Lt-Col Chakkrit Wisetkhetkarn, who is in charge of financial fraud and money laundering investigations. Chanin is expected to be formally indicted before the Ratchadapisek Criminal Court on Monday. Chanin is one of the seven executives of Stark Corporation, a listed company manufacturing wire and cable, and five companies charged with public fraud for allegedly falsifying corporate financial statements, inflating revenues, and misappropriating company funds. The other seven executives include Stark's major shareholder Vonnarat Tangkaravakoon, former board member Chinnawat Assavapokee, former chief financial officer Sathar Chantrasettalead, former chief marketing officer Kittisak Jitprasertngam, Sathar's former secretary Yosabavorn Amarit and Chanin's secretary, Nattaya Prabpetch. The companies implicated in the fraud case were Stark and its subsidiaries, namely Phelps Dodge International (Thailand), Thai Cable International, Adisorn Songkhla Company and Asia Pacific Drilling Engineering. Financial damage from this massive fraud is estimated at about 14.7 billion baht, affecting over 4,700 shareholders. In addition to ongoing criminal proceedings, civil lawsuits have been filed against five Stark executives by three investors. In March this year, the Bangkok South Civil Court decided to classify the lawsuit as a class action. Formerly one of Thailand’s top 100 listed companies, Stark’s financial troubles intensified in March 2022, when the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) suspended trade in the company’s shares for missing the 2022 financial reporting deadline. Following a brief resumption, the share price plummeted to 0.01 baht before Stark was removed from Thailand’s benchmark stock index in June 2022, triggering significant sales by index funds. Picture courtesy: Thai PBS -- 2024-06-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand’s Premier Eyes Pattaya for Upcoming Formula One Race Picture courtesy: PPTV Thailand’s Prime Minister, Srettha Thavisin, visited Na Jomtien today to evaluate its potential as a venue for a future Formula One Grand Prix. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330489-thailand’s-premier-eyes-pattaya-for-upcoming-formula-one-race/

Thailand’s Prime Minister, Srettha Thavisin, visited Na Jomtien today to evaluate its potential as a venue for a future Formula One Grand Prix. Accompanied by Pattaya’s Mayor Poramase Ngampiches and other officials, the Prime Minister's visit underscores the Thai government's serious consideration of hosting the high-profile event. Srettha engaged in discussions with Formula One representatives on-site before heading to Laem Chabang Port in Sri Racha, Chonburi, to inspect other facilities. This visit follows an earlier tour of Baan Chang in Rayong province, another contender for the Formula One race. "Our aim is to secure a Formula One Grand Prix in Thailand," Srettha stated. "We are assessing U-Tapao airport, Pattaya, and Bangkok for their suitability." He added that U-Tapao airport could host a circuit race for maximum safety, while Bangkok and Pattaya are considered for a city race, leveraging Bangkok's iconic urban landscape and Pattaya's picturesque beachside routes. Formula One officials have shown interest in expanding the race calendar to include new, exciting locations. Thailand’s potential inclusion would signify a significant step for the country's motorsport profile. Currently, Asia hosts several prestigious Grand Prix events in Singapore, Japan, and China. Adding Thailand to the roster could bring substantial economic benefits and global recognition. The Prime Minister also took to social media, posting on X: “In pursuing our F1 goal, U-Tapao Airport project includes a facility for the 'circuit race' type which provides maximum safety; while Bangkok and Pattaya are being assessed for the 'city race' type with captivating routes.” Securing a Formula One Grand Prix would not only boost Thailand’s international image but also stimulate local economies. As the discussions progress, Thai motorsport fans eagerly await an official decision, hopeful that one of the proposed cities will soon become the next iconic stop on the Formula One circuit. Picture courtesy: PPTV -- 2024-06-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai PM Defends Changes to Property Rules for Foreign Buyers Picture courtesy:Thai Rath via MSN Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin today defended new regulations easing property restrictions for foreign buyers in a bid to attract international investment. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330488-thai-pm-defends-changes-to-property-rules-for-foreign-buyers/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin today defended new regulations easing property restrictions for foreign buyers in a bid to attract international investment. The controversial changes would allow foreigners to own up to 75% of condominium units and extend property leases to 99 years. This move, widely criticized for favouring capitalists, aligns with international practices, according to the Prime Minister. In his speech, Thailand PM Srettha emphasized that many countries already permit similar property arrangements for foreigners without negative impacts. "Leaseholds are already available to foreigners," he stated, addressing concerns that the new rules might disadvantage Thai citizens. To maintain Thai control of condominium buildings, the regulations ensure that voting rights remain restricted to units within the traditional 49% foreign ownership limit. "This will guarantee that Thais retain a 51% majority control," Srettha explained. Foreigners purchasing units in the additional 26% will have no voting rights, ensuring they can only use the properties for personal residence. Regarding the extension of leaseholds, Thai law currently allows a 30-year term with a possible extension of another 30 years, a private arrangement between the involved parties. The new proposal will increase this to a total of 99 years. "Although a 50+50 leasehold was considered, a 99-year period seems more practical," PM Srettha noted. He reassured the public that this is not an outright sale of Thai land. The proposal to allow foreigners to buy land was firmly rejected. "We are aligning with international norms rather than making an unprecedented change," he added, stressing the benefits of long-term leases without compromising national land ownership. Srettha's defence of the policy shifts reflected a balance between attracting foreign investment and maintaining control over national property. Whether these changes will produce the desired positive outcomes remains to be seen. Picture courtesy:Thai Rath via MSN -- 2024-06-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Influenza Outbreak: 14 Deaths and Over 180,000 Affected File photo courtesy: Wikipedia The recent surge in influenza has claimed 14 lives and affected more than 180,000 individuals across the country since the beginning of the year, as reported by the Department of Disease Control (DDC). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330487-thailand-influenza-outbreak-14-deaths-and-over-180000-affected/

The recent surge in influenza has claimed 14 lives and affected more than 180,000 individuals across the country since the beginning of the year, as reported by the Department of Disease Control (DDC). Director-General Thongchai Keeratihatthayakorn addressed the public's concerns regarding the severity of the circulating influenza strains. While emphasizing that influenza is typically a mild respiratory infection treatable with standard medical care, he acknowledged that in some cases, it can lead to serious intercurrent infections, increasing the risk of fatal outcomes. A dedicated team from Disease Control Office 5 in Ratchaburi is currently collaborating with local public health offices to conduct an in-depth analysis of the flu cases. A comprehensive report summarizing their findings is anticipated next week. According to data from the Epidemiology Division, from January 1 to June 20, there have been 186,900 reported flu cases resulting in 14 deaths. The fatalities have occurred in various regions in Thailand: five in Nakhon Ratchasima, two in Nakhon Si Thammarat, and one each in Chaiyaphum, Surat Thani, Bangkok, Sukhothai, Samut Prakarn, Kalasin. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-06-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Tourists flee as tuk tuk leader threatens taxi driver Picture courtesy: Bounce Nation Kenya A tense altercation unfolded at Jungceylon in Patong yesterday when a local tuk tuk leader confronted a metered taxi driver, leading the taxi’s foreign passengers to hastily disembark for their safety. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330485-tourists-flee-as-tuk-tuk-leader-threatens-taxi-driver/

A tense altercation unfolded at Jungceylon in Patong yesterday when a local tuk tuk leader confronted a metered taxi driver, leading the taxi’s foreign passengers to hastily disembark for their safety. The incident occurred as the metered taxi dropped off a passenger at the bustling mall. Unaware of the brewing conflict, two foreign tourists entered the taxi. Suddenly, the head of the local tuk tuk queue approached, loudly asserting that metered taxis were not allowed to pick up passengers in the area designated for tuk tuks. Concerned for their well-being, the tourists promptly exited the taxi. The tuk tuk leader continued to threaten the taxi driver, challenging him to step out of his vehicle and insisting that the area was reserved solely for local tuk tuks. The incident, witnessed by numerous tourists, was captured on video by the taxi driver from inside his vehicle and by onlookers on the street. Later recounting the events to reporters, the metered taxi driver, identified as Dam, explained that after dropping off a passenger, he unknowingly picked up the two tourists in violation of the area's regulations. Dam complied with the tuk tuk leader's demand for the tourists to leave his vehicle but expressed frustration over the threats. "This is the first time I've faced such an incident, although my colleagues have encountered similar situations," Dam said, urging all taxi drivers and tuk tuk operators to resolve disputes peacefully and without resorting to intimidation. Police have received a report on the incident, but no legal action has been initiated thus far. Picture courtesy: Bounce Nation Kenya -- 2024-06-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

British Man Found Dead in Phuket Hotel Room, Drugs Suspected Picture courtesy: Cherng Talay Police A 48-year-old British man was discovered dead in his hotel room in Cherng Talay, Phuket, prompting an investigation by local police. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330484-british-man-found-dead-in-phuket-hotel-room-drugs-suspected/