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Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan and US Ambassador Robert F. Godec yesterday engaged in discussions focusing on trade tariffs and investment in high-tech sectors, aiming for strategic alignment. During their meeting yesterday, October 17, Pichai emphasised that the talks were crucial for establishing a strategic partnership and bolstering economic ties between Thailand and the US, enhancing both bilateral and investment relations. The forthcoming visit of the US-ASEAN Business Council to Thailand was also underscored by both parties as an opportunity to further solidify economic, trade, and investment connections. Pichai noted Thailand’s readiness to collaborate with the US by positioning itself as a manufacturing hub within the supply chain for advanced US industries, including digital, artificial intelligence, electronics, and semiconductors. He highlighted the interest of US tech giants such as HP, Google, and Amazon in investing in data centres and cloud services in Thailand, underscoring the country’s potential to evolve into a regional hub for the digital industry. Godec affirmed that the US government would support American companies investing in Thailand. Pichai also extended an invitation to US firms to invest in the Thai food industry, citing Thailand’s robust food security and high export potential to emerging markets. He called on the US government to reinstate the Generalised System of Preferences tariff privileges for Thai products, which expired in 2023, emphasising mutual benefits for businesses in both nations. Godec praised the collaborative efforts of Thai and US officials in the realm of intellectual property protection, which culminated in Thailand’s removal from the US watch list. In 2023, the US was Thailand’s second-largest trade partner after China, with bilateral trade amounting to US$68.7 billion. The US remains Thailand’s top export market, with exports valued at US$48.4 billion. Major exports include computers and computer parts, rubber products, telephone and telephone parts, semiconductors, transistors and diodes, transformers and components, gems and jewellery, as well as automobiles and auto parts, reported Bangkok Post. The US is also Thailand’s third-largest import market, with imports valued at US$19.3 billion. Key imports consist of crude oil, machinery and components, electrical circuits, and medical science equipment. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-18

Kidnapping hoax unmasked: Mum’s fake abduction tale sends public into a spin by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ สืบนครบาล IDMB Police confirmed the safety of a seven year old Thai girl after her mother faked her abduction on social media, causing panic and confusion among the public. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341062-kidnapping-hoax-unmasked-mum’s-fake-abduction-tale-sends-public-into-a-spin/

Police confirmed the safety of a seven year old Thai girl after her mother faked her abduction on social media, causing panic and confusion among the public. The Thai mother, whose identity remains undisclosed, took to Facebook to claim that her seven year old daughter, named Omyim, was missing. The mother stated that the girl disappeared near an international school in the Sukhumvit 31 neighbourhood of Bangkok, four hours before she shared the post. The woman included pictures of her daughter in the post and urged netizens to help search for the missing girl. She also claimed to have received a threatening message from an unidentified man. The messages, written in English, read… “I know you love your child very much. Your child is cute. I have seen your child in stories. I know where your child studies. If you don’t come to me in the room to help me pack my stuff, move away from the police to avoid being slandered. When you love your child more than me, tomorrow I will make your child disappear from your life forever.” The woman stated that she and her daughter had been threatened for a long time by the mysterious person. She blocked the account, but the person continued to create new accounts to threaten her. Many netizens shared her post in an effort to help find the girl, and some asked her for more details about the situation to identify the person who had been consistently threatening her and her child. Real threat but fake abduction Unexpectedly, the post was later deleted, sparking panic within the online community. Some people attempted to contact the woman via the phone numbers provided in the post but were unsuccessful. Concerned for the safety of both the woman and her daughter, members of the public reported the matter to the Investigation Division of the Metropolitan Bureau (IDMB). Officers rushed to the woman’s condominium yesterday evening. The woman was found in the room but initially refused to open the door for the police. Officers spent some time persuading her until she eventually allowed them inside. Omyim was found sleeping and unharmed, showing no signs of injury or distress. The woman was taken to Thonglor Police Station for questioning regarding her motives for fabricating the abduction story. She insisted that she was threatened from the unidentified man for over a year, and the person also threatened to abduct her daughter. She claimed that she faked the abduction in an attempt to pressure the unidentified person into revealing himself. The woman added that she had no other stress except from this issue. She had no financial difficulties, as she earned between 70,000 and 80,000 baht per month from her online shop. It is unclear whether the police will launch a further investigation into the threats and the unidentified suspect. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ สืบนครบาล IDMB Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-18

British woman injured by boat propeller on Similan Islands by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Phuket News A British woman sustained injuries from a boat propeller while diving near Island 7 on the Similan Islands. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341061-british-woman-injured-by-boat-propeller-on-similan-islands/

A British woman sustained injuries from a boat propeller while diving near Island 7 on the Similan Islands. The accident took place during a tour organised by Siam Adventure World, according to a report from the Royal Thai Navy Third Area Command based at Cape Panwa. The incident, which occurred on Tuesday, October 15, was brought to the attention of the Navy’s Marine Security Unit by a tour guide aboard the boat, Saracha. The injured tourist, identified as 30 year old Louise Imee Bacchetta, suffered a wound 5 centimetres long and 2 centimetres deep to her right heel. Navy officers promptly administered first aid, stopping the bleeding, providing painkillers, and covering the wound, said an RTN spokesperson. “The injured tourist was given first aid by our officers before being transported back to the tour boat for further medical treatment.” Following the first aid, Bacchetta was taken to a hospital for more extensive medical care. The brief report from the Third Area Command did not disclose additional details about her current condition or the circumstances leading to the accident, reported Phuket News. The Similan Islands had just reopened on Tuesday. The Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation (DNP) has given the green light for visitors until May 15 next year. To ensure visitors have a smooth and safe experience, national park officials have pulled out all the stops. Safety equipment and facilities have been thoroughly checked and repaired where needed. In related news, a fishing boat discovered a body wearing diving gear and an oxygen tank floating in the sea near the mouth of the Samut Prakan estuary. Rescue teams coordinated with the marine police, who retrieved the body and brought it ashore. The deceased was identified as an employee who had been diving with his colleagues in rough seas. The discovery was linked to a diver who had gone missing while cleaning the underside of a ship near Si Chang Island. Marine police were dispatched to search approximately 30 kilometres from the shore. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Phuket News Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-18

Thailand’s domestic tourism revenue to hit 970 billion baht by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Pattarapong Chatpattarasill Festive events and new stimulus campaigns are set to boost domestic tourism revenue in Thailand to between 950 billion and 970 billion baht (US$28.6 and US$29 billion) this year, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341037-thailand’s-domestic-tourism-revenue-to-hit-970-billion-baht/

Festive events and new stimulus campaigns are set to boost domestic tourism revenue in Thailand to between 950 billion and 970 billion baht (US$28.6 and US$29 billion) this year, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). Despite these efforts, the target of 1 trillion baht (US$30 billion) will likely be missed due to a sluggish economy and the impact of flooding. Nithee Seeprae, TAT Deputy Governor of Marketing Communications, stated that the agency is driving promotions to generate at least 200 billion baht (US$6 billion) in revenue from 30 million domestic trips during the final three months of the year. Advertisements The Thailand Winter Festival aims to combine several events, including the Loy Krathong festival, Bun Bang Fai (the rocket festival), Vijitr light show, and marathons. For the first nine months of the year, domestic tourism generated 768 billion baht (US$23 billion) in revenue from more than 207 million trips. Nithee highlighted that negative sentiment from flooding in the north and high household debt levels would continue to impact domestic spending to some extent, as some tourist attractions remain damaged by floods. The agency categorised the flooding impact into three levels: those who can resume their services, groups that require renovation, and operators who must permanently close their businesses. Domestic tourism TAT has also launched the 72 Journeys, 72 Styles online guidebook to promote new routes and invite top influencers to visit, encouraging their followers to travel. “This campaign should help extend Thai tourists’ length of stay from 2.5 days to three days, raising their average spending from 3,000 baht (US$90) to between 3,500 and 4,000 baht (US$105 and 120) per trip,” Nithee said. TAT expects this campaign to reach at least 30 million local travellers. To capture movie and mascot marketing trends, the agency has introduced five routes for those wishing to visit the famous pygmy hippo Moo Deng by driving from five regions, as well as promoting a filming location of the top-grossing Thai horror film Tee Yod 2 in Uttaradit. Next year, the government aims to earn 3.4 trillion baht (US$102 billion) in tourism revenue from 40 million foreign tourists and 205 million domestic trips. Nithee noted that domestic tourism in 2025 will use the same marketing tagline, Instant Happiness in Thailand, while international tourism will continue with: Amazing Thailand, Your Stories Never End. The agency hopes to collaborate more with global media and influencers to promote Thailand as a preferred destination, reported Bangkok Post. As the government works to lift the economy and consumer confidence, domestic tourism should revive. However, international markets might still be affected by geopolitical risks, Nithee added. “The agency is monitoring competitors’ marketing plans. We believe Thailand can still gain a lot of attention thanks to our diverse products and Thai hospitality.” by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Pattarapong Chatpattarasill Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-18

Heavy monsoon rains to hit 42 Thai provinces including Bangkok by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Dominik QN, Unsplash Heavy monsoon rains are expected to lash 42 provinces across Thailand, including Bangkok, with 70% of the area predicted to experience significant rainfall. The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued warnings for flash floods and forest runoffs. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341035-heavy-monsoon-rains-to-hit-42-thai-provinces-including-bangkok/

Heavy monsoon rains are expected to lash 42 provinces across Thailand, including Bangkok, with 70% of the area predicted to experience significant rainfall. The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued warnings for flash floods and forest runoffs. TMD forecasts that monsoon troughs will traverse the upper southern and eastern regions of Thailand, moving into a low-pressure area over southern Vietnam. Concurrently, easterly and southeasterly winds will bring moisture from the South China Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, covering the lower northeastern, central, and eastern regions, including Bangkok and its surrounding areas. This weather pattern is likely to result in heavy rainfall in several areas of the lower northeastern, central, and eastern regions, as well as Bangkok and its vicinity. Residents are advised to be cautious of flash floods and forest runoffs, particularly in hilly areas near watercourses and low-lying regions. The Andaman Sea is forecasted to have waves up to 1 metre high, while the Gulf of Thailand will see waves below 1 metre. However, areas experiencing thunderstorms could face waves reaching over 2 metres. Mariners are urged to avoid sailing in stormy regions. From tomorrow until three days later, another cold air mass from China will extend over the upper northern and upper northeastern regions, as well as the South China Sea. This will bring easterly and southeasterly winds, carrying moisture from the South China Sea and the Gulf of Thailand into upper Thailand. The monsoon trough will pass through the central southern region, leading to an increase in thunderstorms, heavy rainfall in numerous areas, and strong winds in some locations. Heavy monsoon Northern Region: Thunderstorms are expected in 30% of the area, particularly in Tak, Sukhothai, Uttaradit, Kamphaeng Phet, Phitsanulok, and Phetchabun. Temperatures will range from 23 to 25°C minimum to 32 to 34°C maximum, with easterly winds at 10 to 15 kilometres per hour. Northeastern Region: Thunderstorms will cover 30% of the area, with heavy rain in Nakhon Ratchasima, Buriram, Surin, Sisaket, and Ubon Ratchat hani. Temperatures range from 22 to 25°C minimum to 32 to 34°C maximum, with easterly winds at 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. Central Region: Thunderstorms in 40% of the area, with heavy rain expected in Ratchaburi, Nakhon Pathom, Samut Songkhram, Samut Sakhon, Lopburi, Saraburi, and Ayutthaya. Temperatures will be between 23 and 26°C minimum and 33 and 34°C maximum, with variable winds at 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. Eastern Region: Thunderstorms will affect 70% of the area, with heavy rain in Nakhon Nayok, Prachinburi, Chachoengsao, Sa Kaeo, Chon Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat. Temperatures range from 24 to 25°C minimum to 30 to 33°C maximum, with variable winds at 10 to 30 kilometres per hour. The sea will have waves below 1 metre, but areas with thunderstorms could see waves over 2 metres. Southern Region (East Coast): Thunderstorms in 60% of the area, with heavy rain in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. Temperatures will range from 24 to 26°C minimum to 32 to 34°C maximum, with variable winds at 10 to 30 kilometres per hour. The sea will have waves below 1 metre but areas with thunderstorms could see waves over 2 metres. Southern Region (West Coast): Thunderstorms in 70% of the area, with heavy rain in Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, Krabi, and Trang. Temperatures will range from 24 to 25°C minimum to 31 to 33°C maximum, with southwesterly winds at 15 to 30 kilometres per hour. The sea will have waves up to 1 metre, but areas with thunderstorms could see waves over 2 metres, reported KhaoSod. Bangkok and Surrounding Areas: Thunderstorms will affect 70% of the area, with heavy rain in some locations. Temperatures will range from 25 to 26°C minimum to 32 to 34°C maximum, with variable winds at 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Dominik QN, Unsplash Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-18

Gang attack in Bangkok leaves man fatally shot by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A notorious gang stormed a rival’s home, resulting in a tragic shooting where the older brother came out to confront them but was fatally shot multiple times. The younger brother revealed the deceased had just returned to visit their mother before being caught in the crossfire. Police have identified the suspects. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341033-gang-attack-in-bangkok-leaves-man-fatally-shot/

A notorious gang stormed a rival’s home, resulting in a tragic shooting where the older brother came out to confront them but was fatally shot multiple times. The younger brother revealed the deceased had just returned to visit their mother before being caught in the crossfire. Police have identified the suspects. At 2am today, October 18, Tosaphon Rungchaeng, a deputy inspector at Bang Khen Police Station, received a report of a man critically injured by gunfire in front of a house on Soi Ramintra 21, Intersection 18, Anusawari, Bang Khen, Bangkok. He proceeded to the scene with Anan Warasart, the precinct’s chief; Komsan Piya Seema, deputy chief of investigation; Yuranan Phetmanee, an investigation officer; forensic experts from Phumiphol Hospital, and volunteers from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation. Officers found a 9mm bullet and five shell casings scattered on the street. The injured man was quickly transported to the Phetkasem Foundation office in Soi Ramintra 23 by relatives but succumbed to his injuries shortly after. The deceased, identified as 29 year old Paisan, was discovered lying on a stretcher, wearing a black short-sleeved T-shirt and black three-quarter pants. A gunshot wound was visible on his chest, with the bullet lodged inside. Relatives were seen grieving at the scene. A 16 year old witness, identified as A, a student in Mathayom 2, stated that the deceased was his older brother, who worked as a delivery rider. Usually, Paisan lived with his girlfriend but had come to visit their mother. On the evening of yesterday, October 17, around 8pm, Paisan invited friends to celebrate his belated birthday. A recounted that around 1am, five to six teenagers arrived at the house on three motorcycles. Recognising them as members of the Tae Or Ngern 41 gang, they began throwing bottles into the property and taunting him to come out. Gang attack A said his brother chased the gang members away, causing them to crash their motorcycles roughly 20 metres from the house. The gang abandoned one motorcycle and fled on the other two. A brought the fallen motorcycle inside and called the police. Approximately 10 minutes later, the gang returned with four motorcycles, armed with a gun and a machete, seeking to retrieve their abandoned vehicle and escalate the confrontation. Paisan ran out to confront them but was shot multiple times. A saw his brother collapse and rushed him on a motorcycle to the Phetkasem Foundation office, about 600 metres from the scene, seeking urgent medical assistance. Unfortunately, Paisan could not survive his injuries. A explained that the Tae Or Ngern 41 gang had previous conflicts with another group in their neighbourhood, mistakenly believing he was part of the rival gang. This assumption led to several online challenges but A insisted he was not involved. He speculated that the gang thought he was alone, prompting their attack, which tragically resulted in his brother’s death, reported KhaoSod. Initial investigations by police revealed broken glass bottles, chairs, wood debris, a 9mm bullet, and five shell casings at the scene. The evidence was collected for further analysis. CCTV footage from the area is being reviewed to track the escape route of the gang members. Police have identified them and plan to bring them to justice. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-18

Pattaya reopens entertainment venues after day of alcohol sales ban, prepares for upcoming high tourist season By Pattaya Mail Pattaya reopens its entertainment venues on October 18 after a temporary prohibition on alcohol sales during the Buddhist holiday of “Ok Phansa” on October 17. PATTAYA, Thailand – As Pattaya reopens its entertainment venues on October 18 after a temporary prohibition on alcohol sales during the Buddhist holiday of “Ok Phansa” on October 17, police are stepping up enforcement to ensure compliance with standard regulations. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341031-pattaya-reopens-entertainment-venues-after-day-of-alcohol-sales-ban-prepares-for-upcoming/

Pattaya reopens its entertainment venues on October 18 after a temporary prohibition on alcohol sales during the Buddhist holiday of “Ok Phansa” on October 17. PATTAYA, Thailand – As Pattaya reopens its entertainment venues on October 18 after a temporary prohibition on alcohol sales during the Buddhist holiday of “Ok Phansa” on October 17, police are stepping up enforcement to ensure compliance with standard regulations. These proactive measures aim to prevent illegal activities, including drug use, underage patronage, possession of unlicensed weapons, and prostitution. Officers performed random checks on entertainment venues serving alcohol, verifying business licenses and staff documents, and ensuring no illegal activities were taking place. By Pattaya Mail Full story: Pattaya Mail -- 2024-10-18

Security Tightened in Khon Kaen Mall After Shooting Threat Picture courtesy: Siam Rath On 17 October 2024, at 5:00 p.m., it was reported that a social media post from the Facebook page "Khon Kaen Complaints" circulated widely across Khon Kaen. The post featured a message from a Burmese man threatening to carry out a shooting at a prominent shopping mall in the city centre. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341028-security-tightened-in-khon-kaen-mall-after-shooting-threat/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath On 17 October 2024, at 5:00 p.m., it was reported that a social media post from the Facebook page "Khon Kaen Complaints" circulated widely across Khon Kaen. The post featured a message from a Burmese man threatening to carry out a shooting at a prominent shopping mall in the city centre. Upon investigating the matter, reporters discovered that over 100 armed police officers and local officials had been deployed around the mall. Security was reinforced at all entrances and exits, and thorough checks were conducted on those entering and leaving the premises, following strict safety protocols. Khon Kaen Governor Kraisorn Kongchalad confirmed that both uniformed and plainclothes officers, as well as administrative personnel, were stationed inside and around the mall. Police patrols also monitored the surrounding area, including car parks, to ensure maximum security. Forces from Khon Kaen Police Station, the tourist police, a SWAT team, and volunteers were on high alert, ensuring the situation remained under control until the mall closed. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Meanwhile, investigators were reviewing social media activity and working closely with the mall to guarantee safety. Authorities have already identified a suspect, and further investigations are underway. Despite the threat, the mall’s operations continued normally, with security forces maintaining strict vigilance across the site, reported Siam Rath. -- 2024-10-18

iCon Fraud Unveiled: Lessons in Greed and Hard Truths Picture courtesy: MGR online OPINION The iCon Group scandal has drawn a massive spotlight, largely due to the involvement of several high-profile celebrities. Beneath the surface, however, lies a tale of hope, greed, and hard truths affecting everyday investors. This scandal has underscored some valuable lessons that many have learned in the wake of this financial debacle. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341024-icon-fraud-unveiled-lessons-in-greed-and-hard-truths/

Picture courtesy: MGR online OPINION The iCon Group scandal has drawn a massive spotlight, largely due to the involvement of several high-profile celebrities. Beneath the surface, however, lies a tale of hope, greed, and hard truths affecting everyday investors. This scandal has underscored some valuable lessons that many have learned in the wake of this financial debacle. Foremost, the adage “There’s no such thing as a free lunch” rings true. Fast riches rarely come without cost, as victims of the iCon scheme discovered. They were seduced into investing large sums, chasing the dream of financial freedom, but were met instead with financial despair. This saga starkly illustrates that get-rich-quick schemes are seldom what they seem. At the scheme's core were thousands drawn away from stable employment by promises of fast wealth. The iCon narrative, steered by its charismatic leader, painted success as easy and obtainable—yet history shows genuine wealth demands time and dedication. Moreover, the scheme's power lay in alluring storytelling. The iCon leader's personal anecdotes inspired many, projecting a trustworthiness that capitalised on human emotion. However, storytelling, though a powerful business tool, can be dangerous when wielded deceptively. Adding to the draw, celebrity endorsements lent unwarranted credence to iCon's promises. Many victims placed trust in the scheme owing to stars holding prominent roles within the company. This scandal uncovered the risk lurking behind celebrity influence, revealing how star power can sometimes mislead rather than guide. Finally, this situation highlights the allure of luxury and status. High-end watches and designer handbags were shown as symbols of success, enticing many into the web of deceit. But these flashy assets only proved to be an illusion, later confiscated as the scheme unravelled. Ultimately, the iCon scandal is a cautionary tale, reminding us that true success is built on hard work, not empty promises and enticing facades, reported Thai PBS. -- 2024-10-18

Monk Discovers Giant King Cobra Chasing Python in Chanthaburi Picture courtesy: Daily News A monk from Phrom Suthi Sakyaram Monastery in Chanthaburi province had a startling encounter with a giant king cobra chasing a python. On 17 October, he immediately alerted a local snake rescue team to assist in capturing the snakes. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341022-monk-discovers-giant-king-cobra-chasing-python-in-chanthaburi/

Picture courtesy: Daily News A monk from Phrom Suthi Sakyaram Monastery in Chanthaburi province had a startling encounter with a giant king cobra chasing a python. On 17 October, he immediately alerted a local snake rescue team to assist in capturing the snakes. The cobra, measuring 4 metres in length, stunned local villagers who had never seen such a large snake before. Some believed it to be a servant of the mythical serpent king. The snake rescue team arrived at the scene and found the python first, curled up at the base of a longan tree near an ancient tamarind tree behind the monk's quarters. The python, about 2 metres long, was quickly captured and placed in a bag, while the search for the king cobra continued. Not long after, the team spotted the cobra resting atop the tamarind tree. As they approached, the snake became aggressive, attempting to escape higher up the tree. After a tense 4-hour standoff, the exhausted cobra was finally captured captured using two snares. Weighing nearly 10 kilograms, the female snake had minor injuries and was given water and cooling treatment to reduce stress before being secured in a plastic box for recovery. Picture courtesy: Daily News Villagers who gathered at the scene were in awe of the massive cobra. Some speculated that another cobra, possibly the male, might be nearby, as king cobras are often found in pairs. The captured snakes will be released back into the wild, far from human habitation, reported Daily News. -- 2024-10-18

5% of CNG Buses Fail Safety Checks After Fatal Fire in Thailand Bus fire in suburban Bangkok, Tuesday, Oct. 1, 2024 / FILE photo In the wake of a tragic school tour bus fire, the Department of Land Transport has revealed concerning initial findings from nationwide inspections of compressed natural gas (CNG)-powered buses across Thailand. So far, 5% of these inspected buses have been identified as defective. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341019-5-of-cng-buses-fail-safety-checks-after-fatal-fire-in-thailand/

Bus fire in suburban Bangkok, Tuesday, Oct. 1, 2024 / FILE photo In the wake of a tragic school tour bus fire, the Department of Land Transport has revealed concerning initial findings from nationwide inspections of compressed natural gas (CNG)-powered buses across Thailand. So far, 5% of these inspected buses have been identified as defective. This initiative began on October 4, following a devastating incident on October 1 in Pathum Thani, where a tour bus carrying students and teachers from Wat Phao Praya Sangkharam School caught fire, resulting in the loss of 20 students and three teachers. The bus involved was 54 years old, and its CNG conversion was found to be non-compliant with existing safety regulations. The inspections, which have currently covered only 10% of Thailand's approximately 13,400 CNG-powered buses, revealed 68 out of 1,331 buses had serious defects. Common issues included expired gas cylinders and non-compliant equipment, prompting temporary road bans for the faulty vehicles. Remarkably, 12 of these buses have since passed subsequent inspections after operators swiftly addressed the required repairs. The transport department has mandated all operators of defective buses to rectify issues within 15 days, followed by another round of inspections to ensure compliance. This safety push comes amid serious legal proceedings against Samarn Chanthabut, the driver involved in the fatal fire, as well as the owner of the bus and Chinnaboot Tour, the company responsible for the vehicle. Authorities discovered attempts by the company to hide non-compliance in other buses within their fleet. With only a small fraction of the country's CNG bus fleet inspected, the extensive ongoing evaluations are crucial for ensuring passenger safety. While progress has been swift, the task at hand remains substantial, emphasising the urgent need for rigorous inspections across all CNG-powered buses, reported Bangkok Post. Meanwhile, the tragic incident continues to resonate, with three young students still hospitalised due to burn injuries. The efforts to enhance safety standards and enforce compliance are crucial steps toward preventing future tragedies and restoring public trust in the country’s transportation system. -- 2024-10-18

Nattawut Praises Srettha for Championing Marriage Equality Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Thailand - Nattawut Saikua, an advisor to the Prime Minister, took to Facebook to reflect on Prime Minister Srettha "Pe Nid" Thavisin’s early support for marriage equality. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341013-nattawut-praises-srettha-for-championing-marriage-equality/

Thailand - Nattawut Saikua, an advisor to the Prime Minister, took to Facebook to reflect on Prime Minister Srettha "Pe Nid" Thavisin’s early support for marriage equality. During the last election campaign, Srettha openly embraced the concept of equal marriage rights, showing a clear commitment to the cause. To discuss this further, Nattawut arranged a meeting between Pe Nid and young activists involved in Bangkok Pride and other advocacy initiatives. They met at a shopping mall near Siam, where initial hesitations were quickly overcome, paving the way for open and heartfelt discussions. Activists initially worried that Srettha might simply be paying lip service to the issue. Pe Nid, new to political gatherings, was also cautious. However, as the conversation unfolded, mutual sincerity emerged, leading to a hopeful and genuine exchange of ideas. One activist asked, “If Pe Nid becomes Prime Minister, will he truly push for marriage equality?” Although Srettha has since left office, Thailand’s Marriage Equality Bill was indeed passed into law, reflecting the outcome of those conversations, reported Siam Rath. Nattawut noted that current Prime Minister Ink shares a similar stance on this issue and has been engaging with activists as well. The activists expressed their gratitude to Srettha by organizing a gathering at a green space transformed into a rainbow garden at a Sansiri estate. Pe Nid’s supporters joined the event, which featured casual conversations, food, and drinks in a relaxed setting. Veteran equality activist Aunt Lek voiced her appreciation, stating, “After all these years of fighting, I finally saw a leader like Prime Minister Srettha who had the courage and commitment to make it happen.” Picture courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2024-10-18

Expats in Thailand urged not to worry about negative income tax Picture courtesy: Freepik ANALYSIS Recent discussions around a possible negative income tax (NIT) system in Thailand have caused ripples of concern among expatriate communities. However, it's essential to understand that these developments are still in the discussion phase, and any legislative changes are not imminent. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341009-expats-in-thailand-urged-not-to-worry-about-negative-income-tax/

ANALYSIS Recent discussions around a possible negative income tax (NIT) system in Thailand have caused ripples of concern among expatriate communities. However, it's essential to understand that these developments are still in the discussion phase, and any legislative changes are not imminent. The concept of NIT is being examined by some factions within the Thai government but translating such discussions into law will take considerable time, writes Barry Kenyon for Pattaya Mail Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat, a supporter of NIT, has indicated that formal implementation might be several years away. At present, there is no concrete framework or schedule for its introduction, warranting a cautious approach rather than alarm. The fundamental idea behind NIT is to provide financial assistance to individuals who earn below a minimum income level set by the government. This assistance would come in the form of cash subsidies, intended to help groups such as the elderly, unemployed, and those living on marginal incomes. Payments would likely be managed through digital platforms like Paotong and other e-wallet systems, streamlining the process. However, significant details, such as income thresholds and eligibility criteria, are yet to be fleshed out. Often referred to as "workfare," NIT implies that every Thai citizen earning even a minimal amount must register with the Thai Revenue Department and submit annual tax returns. This would bring into the fold many low-income workers, like street vendors and massage therapists, who currently exist outside formal taxation. Over time, as incomes increase, these individuals might become taxpayers rather than benefit recipients, which illustrates a broader governmental objective. The real purpose behind NIT is to substantially increase Thailand's taxpayer base, which currently stands at less than 30%. Given that Thailand is on the brink of becoming a super-aged society, expanding tax contributions is viewed as essential for maintaining social security systems without straining resources. Despite these discussions, the introduction of NIT in Thailand is far from a certainty. Implementing such a system would require significant budget allocations and mark a shift towards more centralised control over the population's finances. Critics often argue that the NIT model suits more advanced economies and may not be suitable for a developing country like Thailand. For expatriates in Thailand, the implications of a potential NIT system remain entirely speculative. The "crunch time," when such policies may come into effect, is still several years off, and any impacts on expats, if they occur, are yet to be determined. Until more concrete information emerges, expatriates should remain observant but not overly concerned about these developments. The key is to stay informed and prepared for any changes that may come in the distant future. Picture courtesy: Freepik -- 2024-10-18