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Phuket’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports (MoTS Phuket) is spearheading a workshop to bolster water tourism safety in the Andaman Tourism Development Zone. The Generation 1 project commenced on June 14 and continues today at the Nai Yang Beach Resort & Spa and Sirinat National Park. Key attendees include Panlop Prajong, a policy and planning analyst at MoTS Phuket, and Sanansin Chalermmuang from the Phuket branch of the Tourism Council of Thailand. Lifeguards from both the public and private sectors are participating in this comprehensive training. “Phuket Province, as the chair of the Andaman Tourism Development Zone, has received budget allocations from the Office of the Permanent Secretary and the Ministry of Tourism and Sports to enhance the safety potential of water tourism within the zone,” said Sanansin. The initiative aims to train personnel involved in tourism to effectively respond to water emergencies and provide life-saving assistance, Sanansin added. “This will efficiently address fundamental issues and maximise effectiveness, ultimately promoting the tourism image of Phuket Province and the Andaman Tourism Development Zone.” The training encompasses surf safety, resuscitation techniques, and the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs). Lifeguards receive instruction from Phuket’s Life Saving Thailand School, accredited by the Ministry of Education, on water safety in both pools and natural water sources. Participants undergo theoretical and practical training in basic rescue skills, self-survival techniques, floating and treading water, rip current escape techniques, and basic life support. Training sessions are conducted in both pool and sea environments. Kamonphan Chalermsakulrat, Deputy Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Phuket office, emphasised the significance of tourism image and tourist safety to the lifeguards. “This comprehensive training program aims to equip lifeguard personnel with the necessary skills to ensure the safety of tourists, thereby enhancing the overall safety and attractiveness of water tourism in the Andaman region.” This training initiative follows the tragic incident involving American expat James Everett du Bois, who was pulled out to sea by a strong rip current at Nai Harn Beach on June 9. His body was found washed ashore the following day. Picture courtesy: Thai News -- 2024-06-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Ancient Skeletons Revealed: Excavations to Resume Post-Rainy Season Picture courtesy: Thai Post Further archaeological excavation is set to continue at a site in downtown Mueang district, Nakhon Ratchasima, where three ancient human skeletons were discovered last month. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329942-ancient-skeletons-revealed-excavations-to-resume-post-rainy-season/

Further archaeological excavation is set to continue at a site in downtown Mueang district, Nakhon Ratchasima, where three ancient human skeletons were discovered last month. The Culture Ministry confirmed that the Fine Arts Department (FAD) will oversee the allocation of funds for the excavation, which is currently paused due to the rainy season. Workers unearthed the skeletons while landscaping near the old eastern moat on Assadang Road, now designated as the Non Pol Lan archaeological site. This site holds the potential for more ancient artefacts to be found. Initial estimates suggest the skeletons are at least 1,500 years old. They have been sent to Kasetsart University for dating via the Optically Stimulated Luminescence method. The skeletons were positioned approximately 1.5 metres apart, accompanied by terra cotta utensils and animal bones. The provincial archaeology office previously stated that these skeletons provide evidence that Nakhon Ratchasima served as a human settlement over 1,500 years ago. The Culture Minister, Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol, noted that plans to continue the excavation at Non Pol Lan have been delayed due to frequent rain, which hinders digging activities. Excavation efforts are scheduled to resume in October when the rainy season subsides. The FAD will finance the excavation under the supervision of the Provincial Fine Arts Office 10, though the exact budget has not been disclosed. “We want the site to serve the function of a site museum which can generate economic value for local communities.” In a related development, the FAD announced the relocation of a dharma practice centre from Wat Kok Prasart monastery in Huai Thalang. The centre was built over the ancient Baan Lung Takian stone castle. The Supreme Administrative Court recently reversed a lower Administrative Court’s injunction that had suspended the relocation efforts. Tossaporn Srisaman, director of the provincial fine arts office, expressed concerns that parts of the castle underground might have been damaged during the construction of the centre, due to digging and foundation-laying operations. Picture courtesy: Thai Post -- 2024-06-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

EC Pushes for Move Forward Party Dissolution Amid Controversy Picture courtesy: Daily News The Election Commission (EC) has stepped up its legal efforts to dissolve the opposition Move Forward Party (MFP) by submitting additional documents to the Constitutional Court. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329941-ec-pushes-for-move-forward-party-dissolution-amid-controversy/

Thailand's Election Commission (EC) has stepped up its legal efforts to dissolve the opposition Move Forward Party (MFP) by submitting additional documents to the Constitutional Court. EC Secretary-General Sawaeng Boonmee revealed that these documents, delivered yesterday, address critical legal issues regarding the case. Sawaeng affirmed that listing witnesses was superfluous because the court's previous ruling on the MFP's stance concerning the lese-majeste law furnished sufficient grounds for the EC to advance its case against the party. MFP leader Chaithawat Tulathon has staunchly criticised the EC's actions, asserting that the dissolution of a political party is a monumental step requiring comprehensive fact-finding and meticulous investigation. He stressed the importance of the EC strictly following the legal procedures laid out in the organic law on political parties, rather than making arbitrary interpretations. In light of the EC's clarification issued on June 13, which faced backlash for allegedly bypassing key procedural steps, Sawaeng commented, "Let’s wait for a ruling from the court." The EC's petition, filed in March, urges the court to disband the MFP based on its ruling from January 31. The court had found that the MFP’s attempts to amend Section 112 suggested a motive to subvert the constitutional monarchy. This ruling underpins the EC's claim that the MFP breached Section 92 of the organic law on political parties, which empowers the court to dissolve any party deemed a threat to the constitutional monarchy. Earlier this month, the court accepted the petition for a hearing. The EC has requested the dissolution of the party, the revocation of the rights of party executives to stand for election, and a decade-long ban on those executives from registering or serving as executives of a new party, as per Sections 92 and 94 of the law. The MFP had suggested amending the lese-majeste law to stipulate that only the Bureau of the Royal Household could file lese-majeste complaints. Currently, any person or group can file such a complaint, obligating police to investigate. The MFP asserts that the existing provision permits politicians and authority figures to misuse the law to quash dissenting opinions. Additionally, the party has called for reduced sentences for lese-majeste convictions, which currently range from three to fifteen years. Courts often cite the gravity of the offence as grounds for denying bail to individuals awaiting trial or appealing their convictions. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-06-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Raises Concerns Over Ukrainian Food Security Amid Conflict File photo courtesy: Wikimedia Thailand has voiced concerns about the ongoing disruption of food supply chains due to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, represented by spokesman Nikorndej Balandura, highlighted these issues in a recent statement. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329940-thailand-raises-concerns-over-ukrainian-food-security-amid-conflict/

Thailand has voiced concerns about the ongoing disruption of food supply chains due to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, represented by spokesman Nikorndej Balandura, highlighted these issues in a recent statement. Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs, Russ Jalichandra, emphasized the long-lasting repercussions of the war on agricultural land. He pointed out that the degradation of these lands not only affects immediate food production but also threatens long-term food security. "Thailand is exploring ways to support Ukraine in its capacity-building efforts aimed at reviving and restoring agricultural land," he stated in his remarks. Food security emerged as a critical topic at the two-day Global Peace Summit for Ukraine, held at Burgenstock, Switzerland. Leaders and participants from over 90 countries, including Thailand, converged to discuss the key issues brought about by the ongoing conflict. The summit aimed to find collaborative solutions to these pressing concerns, with food security being a significant point of focus. Russ underscored Thailand's support for initiatives that contribute to global food security during crises, explicitly referencing the Black Sea Grain Initiative. This initiative, though disrupted, exemplifies the cooperative efforts needed to maintain global food supplies. Thailand expressed hope for the return of such initiatives or the development of new strategies to restore food security worldwide. The summit also saw participation from representatives of other Southeast Asian countries, including Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia. The collective dialogue underscored the global nature of the food security issue and the need for international cooperation to address the challenges posed by the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Thailand's proactive stance on the matter marks its commitment to fostering global food security and supporting Ukraine amidst the ongoing challenges. The summit's discussions underscored the collective drive to seek sustainable and collaborative solutions for food security in times of crisis. File photo courtesy: Wikimedia -- 2024-06-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Sweden Pitches Gripen Fighter Jets to Thailand File photo courtesy: Wikipedia SAAB, the renowned aviation and defence company, has made a strong case for selling its state-of-the-art Gripen fighter jets to the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329939-sweden-pitches-gripen-fighter-jets-to-thailand/

SAAB, the renowned aviation and defence company, has made a strong case for selling its state-of-the-art Gripen fighter jets to the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF). This comes as Thailand looks to replace its ageing fleet of F-16s, aiming for more modern and advanced aircraft. Press Tour Highlights Cutting-Edge Technology To impress their potential buyers, SAAB recently opened the doors of their Stockholm headquarters to a group of Thai reporters. The visit included a tour of the House of Gripen, the dedicated site for the production of Gripen E/F models. The reporters experienced firsthand the advanced capabilities of the Gripen E, including a sophisticated flight simulator. The simulator showcased the fighter jet’s modern nautical control technology, a key selling point for the Swedish manufacturer. Preference Over American F-16s Sources indicate that the Gripen E/F model is currently the frontrunner in the RTAF’s 19-billion-baht fighter jet procurement project. Earlier this month, RTAF commander ACM Phanphakdee Phatthanakul and other key officials visited Sweden to discuss potential deals with SAAB. Technological Edge and Unique Features According to Robert Björklund, Gripen Thailand campaign director, the Gripen E/F jets come with an array of high-tech features. These include fully networked sensor fusion and three types of advanced radars: Raven ES-05-AESA, Skyward G-IRST, and Mode 5-IFF. Importantly, the jets are also compatible with both the Link-16 data link system and the RTAF-developed Link-TH system. Notably, SAAB is proposing that Thailand develop its national datalinks, a radio communication system for the jets, to enhance operational flexibility and secure sensitive data. Strengthening Bilateral Ties Frans Unosson, Director of Industrial Cooperation at SAAB, emphasised the broader impact of this deal. He stated that the procurement would not only bolster Thailand’s defence capabilities but also strengthen economic ties between the two nations. Sweden has already invested significantly in Thailand, contributing at least 128 billion baht to its economy through various exports. Commitment to Long-Term Cooperation Unosson also highlighted that the Gripen procurement aligns with Thailand’s Defence Offset policy, which stipulates that at least 100% of the investment must be returned to the Thai economy. During a meeting with Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin at the World Economic Forum, SAAB’s CEO Marcus Wallenberg discussed potential investments and technology transfer plans for the maintenance of the jets. In conclusion, SAAB's well-rounded offer positions the Gripen as a formidable contender for Thailand’s next generation of fighter jets, promising not just military superiority but also economic and industrial benefits. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-06-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Climbs 11 Spots to 75th in Global Peace Index 2024 Picture courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand's standing in the Global Peace Index (GPI) has seen a notable improvement, with the nation advancing 11 slots to secure the 75th position. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329938-thailand-climbs-11-spots-to-75th-in-global-peace-index-2024/

Thailand's standing in the Global Peace Index (GPI) has seen a notable improvement, with the nation advancing 11 slots to secure the 75th position. This progress in the 2024 GPI, published by the Institute for Economics & Peace based in Sydney, offers a fresh perspective on the country's relative peace and stability. The GPI evaluates 163 countries and territories, representing 99.7% of the global population. It uses three main criteria: social safety and security, ongoing domestic and international conflicts, and militarisation. Thailand performed decently in social safety and ongoing conflicts but excelled in militarisation, placing among the top 20 globally for military capability, technology, and readiness. Despite this progress, Thailand still trails behind many of its Southeast Asian peers. Within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), only the Philippines and Myanmar ranked lower. Singapore emerged as the most peaceful country in the region, ranking 5th globally, followed by Malaysia at 10th. Other ASEAN nations like Vietnam, Indonesia, Laos, and Cambodia also ranked ahead of Thailand. Brunei was not included in the survey. The top spot for the most peaceful country in the world went to Iceland, while Yemen was deemed the least peaceful. The Middle East and North Africa, home to four of the ten least peaceful countries, including Sudan and Yemen, were identified as the most dangerous regions globally. The report cautioned about growing global unrest, as 92 countries are now engaged in cross-border conflicts, the highest number since the GPI began in 2008. This trend is attributed to increased rivalry among great powers and the more aggressive stance of middle-level powers within their regions. Thailand’s improved ranking offers a glimmer of hope and progress, but it also underscores the ongoing challenges the country faces both within and beyond its borders. Picture courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-06-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Filipina Woman Overstays in Thailand for Over 4 Years Picture courtesy: Siam Rath A Filipino woman who had entered and exited Thailand 26 times has been caught overstaying in the country for over four years. Thai police discovered her during a routine inspection aimed at curbing immigration-related offences. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329937-filipina-woman-overstays-in-thailand-for-over-4-years/

A Filipina woman who had entered and exited Thailand 26 times has been caught overstaying in the country for over four years. Thai police discovered her during a routine inspection aimed at curbing immigration-related offences. Police Lieutenant Colonel Suriya Phuangsombat led an investigation targeting areas in Bangkok where foreigners frequently gather. On June 16, officers inspected a local church and noticed a woman acting suspiciously. When asked to present her passport, she could not provide one, prompting further investigation. The woman, identified as Mary, 42, had last entered Thailand in early 2020, obtaining a 30-day visa exemption on 2nd March 2020, which expired on 31st March 2020. Since then, there had been no record of her applying for a visa extension, meaning she had been illegally staying in the country for over four years. Authorities charged her with "being a foreigner staying in the kingdom after the permission had expired." She was informed of her rights and handed over to the Immigration Office for further legal proceedings and repatriation. Picture courtesy: Talk News Online Lt. Col. Suriya emphasised that foreigners must enter Thailand through legal channels and obtain the correct visas. They must also report their residence to immigration officers as stipulated in Section 37 of the Immigration Act of 1979. Those wishing to work in Thailand must apply for the appropriate work permits. Employers found hiring foreigners without a work permit face hefty fines of up to 100,000 baht according to the Royal Decree on the Management of Foreign Workers’ Employment 2017. Additionally, homeowners are required to notify the Immigration Bureau when a foreigner stays at their property. Thailand’s stringent immigration policies serve as a reminder to adhere to legal entry and residency rules, ensuring that foreigners maintain proper documentation and visa status while in the country. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2024-06-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Monday 17 June 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329936-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-monday-17-june-2024/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavasin visited Huahin airport yesterday, saying significant progress has been made towards becoming a Hub for Aviation and Tourism. The PM Posted that he has directed the Minister of Transport,, to accelerate the enhancement of service areas. Work has been carried out to expand the runway and see safety improvements to comply with International Civil Aviation standards. The airport will be renamed "Phetch Hua Hin" airport, with a two-story passenger terminal capable of handling up to 300 passengers per hour and accommodate up to three Airbus A320 aircraft simultaneously. Airport should be fully operational within 2 years. Prime Minister Srettha last night reported he had contracted covid 19, and apologized to all those that had been in close contact. Thailand’s Senate is set to approve a same-sex marriage Bill tomorrow which will bring the country closer to being the first in South-east Asia to guarantee equal rights for gay and lesbian couples. The government plans to kick off a historic celebration tomorrow evening with a parade set to march from the Government House the cultural center, The new law is due to come into effect within 120 days of being published in the Royal Gazette or towards the end of the year. 3 oil smuggling boats along with 18 crew members that disappeared from a police mooring at Sattahip last week have been found off the coast of Malaysia. Authorities had sought cooperation from police in Cambodia, Malaysia and Vietnam to search for the vessels. Authorities expect all three vessels to be escorted to Songkhla pier in the next day or two. The Ministry of Education has agreed to empower teachers to have the full legal right to confiscate e-cigarettes in schools. Until now police had to be called to make any seizures. Schools may now check students' bags and seize e-cigarettes. Around the region. Todays’ WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: Cloudy with rain 32C degrees celsius Bangkok: Thundershower 32 Pattaya: Sunny 33 Phuket and the south: Sunny 32 Hua hin: Sunny 35 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 2024-06-17 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

PM Visits Renowned Hua Hin Station to Bolster Regional Tourism Picture courtesy: National News Bureau of Thailand Prime Minister Rishi Sunak made headlines today as he paid a visit to the newly renovated Hua Hin Railway Station in Prachuap Khiri Khan province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329935-pm-visits-renowned-hua-hin-station-to-bolster-regional-tourism/

Picture courtesy: National News Bureau of Thailand Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin made headlines today as he paid a visit to the newly renovated Hua Hin Railway Station in Prachuap Khiri Khan province. Aiming to bolster regional tourism, this visit falls in line with the government's strategy to improve infrastructure and local attractions through the IGNITE TOURISM THAILAND policy. The station is now positioned as a key tourist destination, exemplified by the unveiling of the STR Royal Blossom tourism train service. Accompanying the Prime Minister were Deputy Minister of Transport Suraphong Piyachote and other high-ranking officials. The visit occurred on June 14 and included interactions with tourists and locals alike, providing an opportunity for direct feedback. During an on-site meeting with officials, Srettha praised the newly implemented Thai design elements that were meticulously integrated into the train’s renovation. The STR Royal Blossom is a refurbished passenger train that was originally from Japan. It has since been transformed by skilled Thai artisans to cater specifically to tourists. The train is outfitted with state-of-the-art entertainment systems and large windows, ensuring panoramic views that enhance the travel experience along the route between Nakhon Pathom and Chumphon. Innovative upgrades to the train include four private cabins that can host groups of 4–6 people, offering a more personalised experience. Additionally, three train cars have been modified into shared cabins, each seating 48 passengers. One car has been entirely redesigned as a leisure area and transformed into a dining car, providing a selection of meals and refreshments to make the journey even more enjoyable. These developments are expected to attract more visitors to the region, offering an upgraded travel experience that not only highlights the beauty of Thailand but also supports local economies. The focus on such infrastructure improvements illustrates the government's commitment to enhancing tourism and showcasing Thailand's rich cultural heritage. -- 2024-06-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pheu Thai’s Paetongtarn Shinawatra Aims to Reclaim Bangkok Seats Paetongtarn Shinawatra. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Pheu Thai’s leader, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, is stepping up to revive her party's fortunes in Bangkok after last year's crushing defeat by the Move Forward Party (MFP). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329932-pheu-thai’s-paetongtarn-shinawatra-aims-to-reclaim-bangkok-seats/

Pheu Thai’s leader, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, is stepping up to revive her party's fortunes in Bangkok after last year's crushing defeat by the Move Forward Party (MFP). Paetongtarn signed an order on Thursday to establish a panel dedicated to crafting political strategies, overseeing MPs and Bangkok Metropolitan councillors, and providing key advice. Leading this 15-member panel, she is joined by four veteran party executives acting as advisers. The battle lines were drawn on May 14, 2022, when the MFP almost entirely obliterated Pheu Thai and other parties in the race for Bangkok. The MFP clinched 32 out of 33 seats in the capital, leaving Pheu Thai with only one seat after a recount. Adding fuel to the resurgence, Paetongtarn’s father, Thaksin Shinawatra, has been actively rallying support for Pheu Thai despite parole conditions barring him from political activities. The former prime minister declared his intention to reclaim all seats in Nonthaburi, a province adjacent to Bangkok, in the upcoming elections. “We will sweep all the seats in Nonthaburi. Someone took them all but we will take all of them back,” he asserted. Last year, the MFP not only triumphed in Bangkok but also dominated Nonthaburi, securing all eight seats and leaving Pheu Thai scrambling. Nonthaburi, once a stronghold for Pheu Thai, is now a critical battleground for the party’s comeback. In a related development, an online poll revealed that more than 60% of respondents are against a contentious draft amnesty bill. Proposed by Poonsuk Poonsukcharoen of Thai Lawyers for Human Rights and seconded by 36,723 people, the bill is currently under parliamentary consideration and has sparked public debate. In other news, former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra announced that Thailand would soon return to full democracy under a Pheu Thai Party-led government, with a new people's charter sparking hope for the country's democratic future. -- 2024-06-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Italian Footballer Mario Balotelli Spotted Training Muay Thai in Phuket Picture courtesy: Sanook In an unexpected turn of events, Italian football sensation Mario Balotelli has been spotted training at a Muay Thai camp in Phuket, Thailand. Photos of Balotelli, who is 33, were posted by the ‘Kamala Muay Thai’ gym, capturing the attention of fans worldwide. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329931-italian-footballer-mario-balotelli-spotted-training-muay-thai-in-phuket/

In an unexpected turn of events, Italian football sensation Mario Balotelli has been spotted training at a Muay Thai camp in Phuket, Thailand. Photos of Balotelli, who is 33, were posted by the ‘Kamala Muay Thai’ gym, capturing the attention of fans worldwide. Balotelli's presence at the camp was confirmed through a Facebook post on June 14th, 2024. The gym shared images of the famous striker in action, accompanied by a warm message in both English and Thai. The message read, “We are thrilled to have you training Muay Thai with our camp. It is an honour to have a football star of your calibre with us. We look forward to supporting you in your journey and helping you reach new heights in your training. Welcome to our team!” The post swiftly garnered attention, amassing likes and comments from fans around the globe. Many expressed their excitement about Balotelli’s new venture and his presence in Phuket. The photos showed Balotelli immersed in training sessions, donning traditional Muay Thai gear, and actively participating in the routines laid out by the camp’s trainers. While Balotelli is widely known for his football prowess—having played for top clubs like Manchester City, AC Milan, and Liverpool—his foray into Muay Thai marks a fascinating shift. Whether this is a temporary off-season fitness regimen or a more serious commitment to learning the sport remains to be seen. The gym at Kamala Beach is known for attracting a variety of athletes, but having a figure as high-profile as Balotelli has certainly put a spotlight on their training programs. It’s not unusual for professional athletes to cross-train in different sports to maintain peak physical condition, but Balotelli’s choice has undoubtedly stirred curiosity among both the football and Muay Thai communities. Given his competitive nature and athleticism, it will be intriguing to see how Balotelli adapts to the demands of Muay Thai. For now, fans are eager to follow this new chapter in his sporting journey. Picture courtesy: Sanook -- 2024-06-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya Residents Protest Motorcycle Rentals Taking Over Parking Spaces Picture courtesy: Matichon Pattaya residents are expressing frustration over motorcycle rental businesses dominating public parking spaces along Beach Road, causing significant inconvenience for both locals and tourists. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329930-pattaya-residents-protest-motorcycle-rentals-taking-over-parking-spaces/

Pattaya residents are expressing frustration over motorcycle rental businesses dominating public parking spaces along Beach Road, causing significant inconvenience for both locals and tourists. On June 15th, 2024, affected residents reported to local media that numerous motorcycles rented out by these businesses are parked en masse on Beach Road, making it challenging for tourists to find available parking. They pointed out that some bikes are even parked illegally, obstructing traffic flow and making it difficult for cars to navigate side streets. Pol. Lt. Col. Panupong Nimsuwan, Pattaya Traffic Police Chief, stated that the police currently lack the authority to issue fines to these businesses since the motorcycles are technically parked in public spaces. Enforcement is only possible when motorcycles are parked in prohibited zones marked by white and red lines, according to Pol. Lt. Col. Panupong. Despite these limitations, Pattaya police regularly patrol the area and issue fines to violators. However, the police chief noted that the broader issue persists due to the Land Traffic Act of 2019, which places the responsibility for regulating parking on public roads on local governments. In a positive development, Pattaya authorities are working on new regulations specifically targeting motorcycle rental businesses. Once these regulations are in place, operators who violate them will face fines and penalties similar to those enforced under existing traffic laws, according to Pol. Lt. Col. Panupong. Meanwhile, Pattaya police will continue to deploy officers to help alleviate parking congestion for tourists. However, one motorcycle rental business owner, who wished to remain anonymous, told local media that ample parking is available in nearby shopping malls. The owner also mentioned that the presence of numerous rental motorcycles on Beach Road is due to it being the low season, which has resulted in fewer customers. This ongoing issue highlights the need for clearer regulations to balance business interests and public convenience, ensuring a harmonious environment for both residents and visitors. Picture courtesy: Matichon -- 2024-06-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Survey Reveals Pollution as Thai Citizens’ Biggest Worry Picture courtesy: MGR online A survey by Marketbuzzz reveals that Thais have named pollution and other environmental issues as their top public concern for 2024, with 30% of respondents prioritising it, closely followed by rising prices at 28%. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329929-survey-reveals-pollution-as-thai-citizens’-biggest-worry/

A survey by Marketbuzzz reveals that Thais have named pollution and other environmental issues as their top public concern for 2024, with 30% of respondents prioritising it, closely followed by rising prices at 28%. Running annually since 2019, this survey highlights the growing unease about environmental issues among Thais, who also rank worries like corruption, healthcare, traffic congestion, crime, and the economy. An alarming 74% of the public now say environmental issues significantly impact their quality of life, up from 62% in 2022. Despite this concern, 37% believe the situation will worsen over the next five years. Actions taken seem mismatched; only 37% avoid illicit products, 34% use less electricity, and 33% use more reusable bags and containers. The majority, however, are not making substantial lifestyle changes to help the environment. Marketbuzzz CEO, Grant Bertoli, remarked that the environment, alongside rising prices, remains a major concern for Thailand. While it tops the list, making eco-friendly choices daily is still a challenge, indicating more effort is needed for sustainable living. The survey noted that companies are stepping up their environmental efforts, with four—True, PTT, Samsung, and AIS—recognised by over 40% of respondents for their positive impact. “Thais have mixed views on who should lead environmental efforts. While the government is expected to play a significant role, individuals are also seen as equally responsible. Thais clearly want change and are willing to be part of it,” Bertoli stated. Key environmental concerns include global warming (30%), air pollution (27%), and climate change (22%). Causes of air pollution are varied, encompassing vehicle smog (30%), waste incineration (26%), use of foam/plastic containers (23%), harmful construction chemicals (22%), and fossil fuel emissions (21%). Assistant Professor Dr Prapaporn Tivayanond Mongkhonvanit, Dean of the School of Global Studies at Thammasat University, commented, “Increasing awareness of environmental threats is heartening. Our work includes educating future leaders to drive the social change needed to tackle these challenges. Practical steps are needed to empower both individuals and organisations to make sustainable choices. Protecting our environment is a shared responsibility, and it is never too late to contribute to a sustainable future.” Picture courtesy: MGR online -- 2024-06-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe