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Thaksin Shinawatra, the former prime minister, has confirmed he will appear before the Criminal Court on 18 June to be formally indicted on lese majeste charges. The charge follows remarks he made about 14 years ago during an interview with a South Korean newspaper. Thaksin had previously missed a scheduled appearance on 29 May, citing illness from COVID-19. The announcement was made at a public event in Pathum Thani province, his first appearance in over ten days. Thaksin expressed confidence in defending himself, claiming the charges are a by-product of the military coup that deposed him from office several years ago. He also voiced his support for current Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who is under scrutiny by 40 senators accusing him of ethical misconduct over the appointment of Phichit Chuenban as PM’s Office minister. Picture: Daily News Thaksin's return to the public eye occurred during the ordination ceremony for the nephew of the mayor of Thanyaburi subdistrict. Accompanied by his youngest daughter, Paetongtarn, the leader of the Pheu Thai party, Thaksin was met with applause from numerous red-shirt supporters in attendance. The attorney-general pursued charges against Thaksin for allegedly violating lese majeste laws in the interview. Thaksin's legal team previously requested a postponement due to his illness, which was granted, setting the new court date for 18 June. Thaksin's attendance at the Pathum Thani event is widely considered a strategic move to rally support ahead of the upcoming mayoral election for the Pathum Thani Provincial Administrative Organization, where Pheu Thai candidate Charn Puangpet is running for office. Alongside the political manoeuvring, the event featured a grand Chinese dinner with 1,700 tables, signalling a significant gathering of both political supporters and community members. The outcome of Thaksin's court appearance and the surrounding political activities continue to be closely watched by observers and supporters alike. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-06-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Move Forward Party Challenges Court's Authority Over Dissolution Picture courtesy: Thai Rath The opposition Move Forward party plans to challenge the Constitutional Court, arguing that it lacks the authority to dissolve the party or expel its executive committee members from politics for ten years. Pita Limjaroenrat, the former party leader and current chief advisor, announced this bold move on Sunday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329339-move-forward-party-challenges-courts-authority-over-dissolution/

The opposition Move Forward party plans to challenge the Constitutional Court, arguing that it lacks the authority to dissolve the party or expel its executive committee members from politics for ten years. Pita Limjaroenrat, the former party leader and current chief advisor, announced this bold move on Sunday. The court is set to hear a complaint on Wednesday filed by the Election Commission (EC). The complaint stems from a January 31st ruling by the court, which claimed that the party sought to undermine the constitutional monarchy through its campaign to amend the lèse majesté law. Pita presented a nine-point defence today, challenging both the jurisdiction and authority of the Constitutional Court, as well as the legitimacy of the EC’s complaint. He argued that the court lacks the power to dissolve the party or expel its leaders, as these actions are not granted by the Constitution. According to Pita, the EC’s complaint is also flawed because the Move Forward party was not given a fair chance to defend itself against the charge of attempting to overthrow the monarchy. He contended that the January ruling shouldn't legally bind the current case, as they involve different issues. Pita emphasised that disbanding a political party should be a last resort, reserved for absolute necessity and approached with extreme caution. He asserted that such severe penalties do not protect democracy but rather undermine it. "Political parties play a crucial role in upholding democracy," Pita stated, stressing the importance of Move Forward's continued participation in the political landscape. The case could set a significant precedent for the balance of power between political parties and judicial oversight in the country. As the hearing approaches, the nation watches closely, aware that the outcome could have profound implications for the future of political freedom and judicial intervention in the legislative process. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-06-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Chinese woman safely located following a 25-million-baht scam in Bangkok Picture courtesy: MGR online A 27-year-old Chinese woman, previously feared to be kidnapped for a 25-million-baht ransom, was found safe yesterday in Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329338-chinese-woman-safely-located-following-a-25-million-baht-scam-in-bangkok/

A 27-year-old Chinese woman, previously feared to be kidnapped for a 25-million-baht ransom, was found safe yesterday in Bangkok. Lu Xinlei was located at the HomePro Bangna shopping mall and taken to Phra Khanong Police Station for a heartwarming reunion with her mother and sister, who had flown in from China. Lu, working for a property company in Japan, fell victim to a scam gang masquerading as Japanese officials. The scammers falsely accused her of violating an anti-money-laundering law and instructed her to transfer 17 million yen (around US$109,000) for inspection and to stay in either Thailand or Singapore, avoiding contact with her parents. Arriving in Thailand on May 29, the gang directed Lu to switch SIM cards and change hotels frequently. On May 31, her parents received a chilling call from a man claiming she had been kidnapped, demanding a ransom of 5 million yuan (approximately 25 million baht or US$680,000) for her release. A Chinese-language interpreter helped relay this information to the local police. Investigations soon revealed there was no kidnapping. Both Lu and her parents had fallen prey to a call scam gang, deceived through a chat application. The police spokesperson confirmed, "We believe the scammers tricked both the victim and her family. There was no real kidnapping involved." Despite the distressing ordeal, Lu was found unharmed. Authorities assured the public of her safety and declared the investigations into the scammers' identities and locations would continue. This case underscores the importance of vigilance against such scams, and officials urged everyone to report any suspicious activities without delay. This incident also highlights the need for increased awareness around sophisticated schemes that prey on innocent victims by exploiting their fears and vulnerabilities. Picture courtesy: MGR online -- 2024-06-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Monday 10 June 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1329336-thailand-live-monday-10-june-2024/

The new Automatic Channel for passport control at Suvarnabhumi Airport was personally tested by Wisanu Prasarttong-Osoth, chairman of Airports of Thailand (AOT), before its official launch yesterday. This state-of-the-art system aims to ease congestion at immigration checkpoints. New Automated Passport Control Enhances Suvarnabhumi Airport Experience Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329335-new-automated-passport-control-enhances-suvarnabhumi-airport-experience/ Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Picture courtesy: Siam Rath

The new Automatic Channel for passport control at Suvarnabhumi Airport was personally tested by Wisanu Prasarttong-Osoth, chairman of Airports of Thailand (AOT), before its official launch yesterday. This state-of-the-art system aims to ease congestion at immigration checkpoints. Wisanu took part in a real-world test of the advanced automatic passport control system before boarding flight TG415 to Malaysia. The new system is part of AOT's initiative to assist immigration officers at Suvarnabhumi Airport by addressing issues related to the old system, which had been operational for over 15 years and only served Thai nationals. Outdated technology and a shortage of immigration staff have thrust passenger congestion into the spotlight, negatively impacting Thailand’s tourism image. The government is keen to position Suvarnabhumi as a key gateway, welcoming tourists and international investors. Picture courtesy: Khaosod Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin recently revealed plans to elevate Suvarnabhumi Airport to become the region’s main aviation hub. AOT has thus allocated funds to implement the new Automatic Channel project. Initially, 56 new machines will be installed at international departures, replacing the existing 16 machines. This increase aims to streamline passenger processing without compromising national security, akin to procedures at internationally recognised airports. Wisanu highlighted that the new Automatic Channel system can process both Thai and foreign nationals at a rate of four people per minute. The process involves just two steps: scanning the passport and facial recognition. This continuous flow system eliminates the need for passengers to go through checks one at a time. Currently in the testing phase, the system is expected to be fully operational by July. Plans are also underway to expand the installation to immigration checkpoints at international arrivals in Suvarnabhumi and other airports, including Don Mueang, Phuket, and Chiang Mai. “The new Automatic Channel will significantly enhance our capability to manage passenger flow more efficiently. This system not only speeds up the process but also maintains the highest security standards,” Wisanu concluded. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2024-06-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand goes green: Major push for sustainable tourism unveiled by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of TTG Asia The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has launched an ambitious plan to boost sustainable tourism, revealed at the Thailand Travel Mart Plus (TTM+) 2024, held from June 5 to 7 in Phang Nga. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329270-thailand-goes-green-major-push-for-sustainable-tourism-unveiled/

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has launched an ambitious plan to boost sustainable tourism, revealed at the Thailand Travel Mart Plus (TTM+) 2024, held from June 5 to 7 in Phang Nga. A key highlight of these plans is hosting Asia’s second Tourism Cares summit in 2025. Partnering with the US-based NGO, this summit will focus on promoting regenerative tourism in Thailand. Accompanied by a meaningful travel mart, the event will showcase high-yield tourism products, aiming to set new standards in sustainable travel. Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, TAT’s Deputy Governor for International Marketing, emphasised Thailand’s existing efforts in responsible tourism. “We need international standards, and more international bodies to stand with us. So that’s why, from our side, and in the local market, we’re going to work with more and more international standards.” In March, TAT and Tourism Cares hosted their first Meaningful Familiarisation Tour, introducing 14 Thai industry representatives to impactful local experiences in Bangkok and Krabi. This initiative has led to the creation of a Meaningful Travel Map of Thailand, highlighting 15 initial impact partners with plans for further expansion. At TTM+ 2024, TAT also launched the Amazing Thailand: Your Stories Never End campaign, showcasing a variety of meaningful travel options. From luxury and wellness retreats to soft adventure and sustainable tourism initiatives, the campaign aims to inspire visitors to create and share lasting memories. In line with its zero-waste-to-landfills initiative, TTM+ 2024 prioritised sustainability by minimising single-use plastics and implementing a zero-waste programme. Collaboration with the JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort ensured surplus food was diverted to local students at Racha Prachanukroh 35 School, reported TTG Asia. Cheawsamoot highlighted the importance of sustainable practices. “For Europeans or Americans, sustainability is no longer a trend; it’s a way of life. To appeal to these markets, we must adopt and promote sustainable practices.” Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya, TAT’s Deputy Governor for International Marketing Asia and South Pacific stated that there is a gap between mass travellers and high-yield ones. “That’s why we need a high-yield travel mart.” by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of TTG Asia Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai car sales plunge; luxury market hit amid economic woes by George Anderss PHOTO: The Mercedes-Benz Model EQS Mercedes-Benz (Thailand) reports a significant decrease in domestic car sales, affecting even the typically robust premium car sector. The struggling Thai economy and banks’ stricter auto lending policies due to high household debt, are impacting car manufacturers across all sectors. This includes the luxury market, which generally leverages higher purchasing power. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329268-thai-car-sales-plunge-luxury-market-hit-amid-economic-woes/

Mercedes-Benz (Thailand) reports a significant decrease in domestic car sales, affecting even the typically robust premium car sector. The struggling Thai economy and banks’ stricter auto lending policies due to high household debt, are impacting car manufacturers across all sectors. This includes the luxury market, which generally leverages higher purchasing power. “The automotive industry has been hard hit by this year’s economic slowdown, making it challenging for manufacturers to boost sales. This includes both general passenger and luxury cars,” says Martin Schwenk, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz (Thailand). Schwenk predicts that total car sales in Thailand will fail to reach the 750,000-800,000 units target in 2024. Compared to last year, which saw domestic car sales hitting 775,780 units (an 8.6% year-on-year fall), according to the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI). “The industry is immersed in fierce competition and under immense pressure, making it hard to project Mercedes-Benz’s sales volume for 2024,” adds Schwenk. In 2022, there were 13,118 Mercedes-Benz cars registered; the total luxury car sector’s sales hitting 43,553 units. However, according to the FTI, domestic car sales in April this year plummeted by 21.5% year-on-year to 46,738 units, primarily due to delayed government spending, stricter bank lending criteria for car loans, and weaker buying power. Between January and April, car sales saw a steep drop by 23.9% year-on-year to 210,494 units. Despite the general drop in car sales, Mercedes-Benz Thailand identifies a silver lining in the growing electric vehicle (EV) industry, which is witnessing government support. Most recently, the company renewed a decade-long contract with Thonburi Automotive Assembly Plant Ltd, its longstanding partner in car assembly and battery production. “We are entering a new era as the first premium car brand to produce batteries and assemble EVs. We will start with the EQS 500 4MATIC AMG Premium,” declares Schwenk. The Samut Prakan-based assembly plant has manufactured over thirteen models of Mercedes-Benz automobiles, including A-Class, C-Class, E-Class, and S-Class vehicles. Schwenk shows no worry over the entry of Chinese EV manufacturers into Thailand, pointing out that they target different market segments. Globally, Mercedes-Benz focuses on producing plug-in hybrid EVs, outlining plans to phase out internal combustion engine-powered cars by 2025. by George Anderssen PHOTO: The Mercedes-Benz Model EQS Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Chinese tourist missing in Thailand, 25 million baht ransom by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A Chinese tourist has gone missing while vacationing in Thailand, with her father receiving a ransom demand of 25 million baht for her release. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329267-chinese-tourist-missing-in-thailand-25-million-baht-ransom/

A Chinese tourist has gone missing while vacationing in Thailand, with her father receiving a ransom demand of 25 million baht for her release. Police at Phra Khanong Police Station were alerted by a Thai-Chinese interpreter named Moo, who works with the national cycling team coach, about the missing Chinese woman, 27 year old Xinlei Lu. Lu, who arrived in Thailand with a group of over 10 friends on June 5, initially stayed at the Evergreen Place Siam Hotel in Phaya Thai, room 1016. Later, she moved to The Quarter Onnut Hotel, room 315, on Sukhumvit 58. Her father reported that around 6pm yesterday, he received a WeChat call from a man demanding 5 million yuan (approximately 25 million baht) to secure his daughter’s return to Shanghai. Phra Khanong Police’s investigative unit checked The Quarter Onnut Hotel, where staff confirmed that Lu had checked in and left the hotel around 3.11pm yesterday, June 7. CCTV footage showed her walking out alone. Moo provided additional information from Lu’s father, indicating that a flight to Singapore, TR 617, was booked for her at 8.25pm. However, checks with the Immigration Bureau and the Tourism Authority of Thailand revealed no records of her leaving the country, reported KhaoSod. Police stated that they are thoroughly investigating this case and coordinating with all relevant authorities to ensure Lu’s safety. In related news, the search for a 41 year old Thai man continues 20 days after he went missing during a trip to the Srinakarin Dam. The former university lecturer was last seen on May 19 during a gathering with 30 friends. Despite extensive efforts from authorities and local villagers, there has been no sign of him. In other news, a 32 year old Thai woman, who mysteriously vanished in Switzerland nearly a month ago, has been found safe and well, the Thai embassy in Bern confirmed. The woman, who travelled to Switzerland on a Swedish passport with her American boyfriend in early April, had not been in contact with her family since April 26. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Full story: The Thaiger 2024-06-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

3,900 Thai community radio stations to cease under new digital scheme by George Anderssen The end of broadcasts from nearly 3,900 community radio stations in Thailand Approximately 3,900 community radio stations will be forced to cease broadcasting after this year due to the transition from analogue to a licensing regime and a digital audio broadcasting (DAB) scheme. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329266-3900-thai-community-radio-stations-to-cease-under-new-digital-scheme/

Approximately 3,900 community radio stations will be forced to cease broadcasting after this year due to the transition from analogue to a licensing regime and a digital audio broadcasting (DAB) scheme. The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) has been working on the digital radio regulatory framework, aiming to implement it by September. This significant change is set to happen due to the nation’s shift from an analogue system to a licensing regime operating under a Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB) scheme. The orchestrator of this transition, The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC), has set ambitious plans to bring this digital radio regulatory framework in full effect by September. NBTC Commissioner, AM Thanapant Raicharoen, highlights that the DAB system’s evolution is meant to coincide with the seismic transition of community radio systems into the NBTC’s stringent licensing regime. “The intention is to escalate the quality of our service standards while simultaneously enabling involved parties to remain abreast of the digital disruption wave,” he stated. This overhaul is a crucial aspect of the NBTC’s third master plan for broadcast and television businesses which is set to run from 2025 to 2030. The expiration of radio stations’ trial permits marks the end of an era for community radios operating under NBTC permissions. These permissions, originally formulated to span half a decade by the National Council for Peace and Order until April 2022 and eventually extended by the previous administration, will reach their expiry date at 2024-end. Administrative punishments await stations that fail to assimilate to the new system, with the harsh penalty of closure looming large. Bringing more clarity to the situation, AM Thanapant stated that community radios are essentially faced with two paths, one being the adoption of NBTC radio licensing regime for FM analogue systems and the other being a shift to the DAB system. At present tally, 313 FM radio stations can proudly tout licenses authorized by the NBTC. The stations which are granted permission as well as those under license operate in the 87-108 megahertz frequency spectrum. The FM analogue radio system has the capacity to comfortably support around 3,000 stations within its existing spectrum provisions. However, these frequencies must be carefully managed to prevent signal interference, and stations that fail to choose a path by year-end will be terminated. At a public hearing for the digital radio regulatory framework, AM Thanapant underscored the vital regulatory strategy aimed at optimal frequency utilization for digital audio broadcasting. He elaborated transmitter and receiver requirements and elaborated on the gradual conversion of licenses for DAB services and networks. In the MUX broadcast realm, license stipulations are projected to be enforced by August 2023, and DAB operators should ideally have licencing permissions by the third quarter of 2025. Three possible licensing schemes await MUX broadcasters. The first being the NBTC fund-backed installation of a MUX system, claimed to cost 1 billion baht for a three-year operation cycle, covering sixty percent of Thailand’s population. Alternatively, depending on public demand, NBTC could hold a licensing auction for nationwide MUX providers. Lastly, joint network development could be envisaged with community radio stations collaborating to rent a MUX system, heralding a new age in digital radio services. In conclusion, AM Thanapant emphasized, “One MUX system has the capacity to accommodate at least 16-18 digital radio station operations.” This transition aims to streamline and modernize the broadcasting sphere, preparing all stakeholders for the digital future. by George Anderssen Top picture: The end of broadcasts from nearly 3,900 community radio stations in Thailand Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

UPDATE: Election Commission unanimously agrees on senator selection by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Thai PBS World All seven election commissioners have unanimously agreed to proceed with the district-level selection of senators tomorrow, despite looming legal uncertainties. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329192-ec-to-clarify-court-ruling-impact-before-sunday-senate-elections/?do=findComment&comment=18975963

Election Commission unanimously agrees on senator selection by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Thai PBS World All seven election commissioners have unanimously agreed to proceed with the district-level selection of senators tomorrow, despite looming legal uncertainties. Election Commission (EC) Secretary General Sawaeng Boonmee announced yesterday afternoon that the commissioners have collectively decided against postponing the selection, which had been suggested by the EC Office. “There is no reason to delay.” The proposed delay was rooted in apprehensions that the Constitutional Court might rule in favour of petitioners challenging sections of the relevant law, potentially rendering tomorrow’s selection invalid. However, Sawaeng assured the public that proceeding as scheduled would not cause any harm, emphasising that holding the selection is a fundamental duty of the commission. He added that, should an “unavoidable but necessary situation” arise in the future, the commission possesses the authority to address it appropriately, reported Thai PBS World. This selection process is notably distinct, involving three steps with no public voting. Candidates themselves will participate in the selection at the district, provincial, and national levels to elect a new set of 200 senators. UPDATE: Election bombshell: Call for senator vote delay amid legal storm Former election commissioner Somchai Srisutthiyakorn urged the Election Commission (EC) to halt the district-level selection of senators slated for this Sunday. Somchai insists it’s “better to be late than to rush ahead” before the Constitutional Court’s impending ruling. The Constitutional Court has accepted two petitions challenging the constitutionality of three provisions in the election law, and a decision date has yet to be set. Crucially, this decision will not be made before Sunday, throwing the election timeline into chaos. In a Facebook post today, Somchai argued that it’s not too late to delay the selection process. He highlighted that the court’s decision would clarify necessary amendments to the election law, which Parliament could accomplish in less than a day. Somchai estimated that the EC’s Office has already spent approximately half of the 1.5 billion baht budget allocated for the district-level selection. He expressed concerns about whether the office can manage the financial implications if the selection is postponed. Meanwhile, EC Chairman Itthiporn Boonpracong announced this morning that the seven election commissioners will decide today on whether to postpone the selection, reported Thai PBS World. Adding to the suspense, EC Secretary-General Sawaeng Boonmee is set to hold a press conference this afternoon to reveal their decision, which is likely to be a postponement. ORIGINAL STORY: EC to clarify court ruling impact before Sunday Senate elections The Election Commission (EC) is set to clarify the implications of a Constitutional Court ruling, which agreed to examine a petition challenging four contentious provisions in the Senate election law. This comes just before district-level voting is scheduled nationwide for Sunday. The court declined to issue an injunction, indicating no severe consequences were anticipated if the Senate election proceeded. The controversial provisions in question include Sections 36, 40(3), 41(3), and 42(3) of the Senate election law. Section 36 pertains to candidate introductions, while the others relate to voting procedures across various levels — district, provincial, and national. A decision by the court, with an 8:1 vote, accepted the task of determining whether these provisions contravene Section 107 of the constitution, which governs the Senate selection process. The court has requested state agencies submit their opinions within five days of receiving the order or by next week. Following this decision, the EC’s election management and legal departments are working to address the issue, with an outcome expected to be reviewed by the seven commissioners today, according to EC secretary-general Sawang Boonmee. In a message to all EC executives, Sawang reassured them that a resolution would be reached promptly, ensuring clarity for Sunday’s district-level voting. The legal contention arises from the 2018 organic law on the Senate’s composition, which the EC referenced when formulating regulations for the upcoming Senate election. Sawang expressed confidence in the EC’s position against the alleged constitutional breach. “I strongly believe this problem will eventually be solved.” EC Chairman Itthiporn Boonpracong instructed provincial EC officials in Ang Thong to adhere strictly to the Senate election handbook for Sunday’s voting. Caretaker Senator Somchai Swangkarn, who previously alleged that up to 149 candidates had already been preselected as winners at district and provincial levels, warned those involved in collusion could face up to 10 years in prison. He also cautioned that EC officials failing to properly screen candidates might face dereliction of duty charges, reported Bangkok Post. Another caretaker senator, Direkrit Janekrongtham, expressed concerns that the Senate election results might not be announced on July 2 as planned due to the ongoing issues surrounding the election of 200 new senators. Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Foreigners can now own land in Thailand: Land Dept by George Anderssen Foreign land ownership in Thailand is a complex issue, primarily dictated by the Land Code Act of 1954, which generally prohibits foreigners from owning land outright. This law is designed to maintain national control over Thailand’s valuable natural resources. There are, however, exceptions to this rule. The Board of Investment, for instance, permits land ownership for foreign investors in certain business categories. Also, according to Thailand’s Condominium Act, foreigners can own up to 49% total space of a condominium building. Despite these allowances, the property ownership laws has been quite stringent for non-natives, and anyone interested in acquiring property in Thailand must be fully aware of these complexities. It’s important to ensure all property dealings abide by the country’s legal framework to avoid future complications. We are not really there yet, but here is some positive changes for foreigners: The Land Department has recently updated the criteria regarding foreign ownership of land in Thailand. Inheritance: Non-Thai nationals who are legal heirs of foreigners permitted to hold land are eligible to inherit the land holdings. However, such inheritance must adhere to the regulations outlined in the land-holding laws or the criteria governing land ownership by foreigners. For instance, heirs may inherit up to 1 rai (0.160 hectares) of land for industrial use or up to 10 rai (1.60 hectares) for agricultural purposes. The utilization of the land must also align with the permissions granted to the original owners. Land Purchase: According to Article 96 of the Land Code, foreigners are allowed to purchase 1 rai of land for residential construction upon investing a minimum of 40 million baht in the country. This investment must contribute to Thailand’s economic and social welfare or fall under the categories endorsed by the Board of Investment. The investments should be sustained for at least three years, and the residential property acquired by foreigners must be situated in Bangkok, Pattaya, or any other municipality. Land Transfer: Foreigners can undergo land transfer procedures in accordance with relevant laws, such as the Investment Promotion Act of 1977. The Land Department emphasizes that Thai nationals acting as nominees to hold land for foreigners may face a maximum imprisonment term of three years, a maximum fine of 6,000 baht, or both. Foreigners found guilty of unlawfully acquiring land may face a maximum daily fine of 20,000 baht and/or a maximum imprisonment term of two years. Source: Land Department / The Nation Full story: The Thaiger 2024-06-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Land Dept Revises Guidelines for Foreign Ownership of Land Picture courtesy: CaymanmarlRD The Land Department has recently updated the criteria regarding foreign ownership of land in Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329259-land-dept-revises-guidelines-for-foreign-ownership-of-land/

The Land Department has recently updated the criteria regarding foreign ownership of land in Thailand. Inheritance: Non-Thai nationals who are legal heirs of foreigners permitted to hold land are eligible to inherit the land holdings. However, such inheritance must adhere to the regulations outlined in the land-holding laws or the criteria governing land ownership by foreigners. For instance, heirs may inherit up to 1 rai (0.160 hectares) of land for industrial use or up to 10 rai (1.60 hectares) for agricultural purposes. The utilization of the land must also align with the permissions granted to the original owners. Land Purchase: According to Article 96 of the Land Code, foreigners are allowed to purchase 1 rai of land for residential construction upon investing a minimum of 40 million baht in the country. This investment must contribute to Thailand's economic and social welfare or fall under the categories endorsed by the Board of Investment. The investments should be sustained for at least three years, and the residential property acquired by foreigners must be situated in Bangkok, Pattaya, or any other municipality. Land Transfer: Foreigners can undergo land transfer procedures in accordance with relevant laws, such as the Investment Promotion Act of 1977. The department emphasizes that Thai nationals acting as nominees to hold land for foreigners may face a maximum imprisonment term of three years, a maximum fine of 6,000 baht, or both. Foreigners found guilty of unlawfully acquiring land may face a maximum daily fine of 20,000 baht and/or a maximum imprisonment term of two years. Picture courtesy: CaymanmarlRD Source: THE NATION -- 2024-06-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Police Hold Meeting with Bar Guards Following Viral Brawl Involving Foreign Tourists By Aim Tanakorn Police from the Chonburi Provincial Police, Banglamung District, and Pattaya City held a meeting this week with security guards from entertainment venues in Pattaya to address concerns about tourist safety following a recent incident in which two foreign tourists were brutally assaulted by security guards. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329256-police-hold-meeting-with-bar-guards-following-viral-brawl-involving-foreign-tourists/

Police from the Chonburi Provincial Police, Banglamung District, and Pattaya City held a meeting this week with security guards from entertainment venues in Pattaya to address concerns about tourist safety following a recent incident in which two foreign tourists were brutally assaulted by security guards. The meeting, held at Pattaya City Hall on June 6th, was led by Pol. Maj. Gen. Thawatchakiat Jinda Kuansanong, Commander of the Chonburi Provincial Police. He was joined by Banglamung District Chief Weekit Manarojkit, Pattaya Mayor Poramase Ngampiches, Pattaya Police Superintendent Pol. Col. Navin Teerawit, and other officials. Representatives from the Pattaya Entertainment and Tourism Industry Association, the Pattaya Nightlife Business Association, and the Pattaya Tourist Police Volunteers were also present, along with 300 nightclub owners and security guards. The meeting was held in response to the previous viral physical altercation between bar guards and two foreign customers on Soi 6, where one foreigner was brutally kicked in the head after getting knocked down. However, the tourist, who is pursuing legal action against his assailant, was not seriously injured, The Pattaya News noted. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-06-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Power move: Energy Ministry to introduce National Energy Plan by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation The Energy Ministry announced yesterday that it is gearing up to unveil the National Energy Plan 2024 in September. This comprehensive strategy promises to revolutionise Thailand’s energy landscape with the introduction of nuclear plants and a pledge to cap electricity costs at under 4 baht per unit. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329254-power-move-energy-ministry-to-introduce-national-energy-plan/

The Energy Ministry announced yesterday that it is gearing up to unveil the National Energy Plan 2024 in September. This comprehensive strategy promises to revolutionise Thailand’s energy landscape with the introduction of nuclear plants and a pledge to cap electricity costs at under 4 baht per unit. The Energy Policy and Planning Office (EPPO) revealed that this master plan will serve as a blueprint for both public and private sectors, aiming to secure the nation’s energy future, hit the net zero target by 2065, and align with international regulations and trade agreements. Weerapat Kiatfuengfoo, EPPO Director-General, highlighted that the National Energy Plan will integrate five crucial energy-related strategies to ensure cohesive progress. These include the Power Development Plan (PDP) for 2024 to 2037, the Alternative Energy Development Plan (AEDP), the Energy Efficiency Plan (EEP), the Gas Plan, and the Oil Plan. The PDP and EEP plans are set to undergo a public hearing process from June 12 to 13, offering a platform for public input and engagement. Weerapat emphasised that PDP 2024 will prioritise bolstering the nation’s energy security, reducing environmental impacts, and maintaining energy costs below 4 baht per unit to ease the financial strain on citizens and businesses alike. He also noted the ambitious goal of enhancing power stability, targeting a Loss of Load Expectation (LOLE) of under 17 hours per year. The plan includes the development of advanced power plants, such as pumped storage hydropower facilities and small modular reactors (SMR), reported The Nation. “SMR represents a leap forward in energy stability, combining modern technology with enhanced safety and reduced spatial requirements. Our initial capacity for these nuclear plants will be set at 600 megawatts.” Thailand’s future energy needs are projected to soar, with power consumption expected to climb to 55,000 to 56,000 megawatts by 2037 from the current 36,000 megawatts. To meet this surge and minimise environmental impact, the share of renewable energy will rise from 36% to 51% by 2037. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe