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File photo The Cabinet is poised to review feedback from a recent public hearing regarding a proposed bill to establish casino-entertainment complexes in Thailand. This initiative, spearheaded by the Fiscal Policy Office (FPO), aims to regulate casinos and foster tourism-related revenue. The bill suggests issuing 30-year licences to operators of these complexes, contingent on a 5 billion baht registration fee and an annual fee of 1 billion baht. The complexes, envisioned to bolster tourism, will be open to all foreigners, while Thai citizens must pay an entrance fee of 5,000 baht. Furthermore, visitors under the age of 20 will be denied entry. An entertainment complex policy committee, headed by the prime minister, will dictate the guidelines for these complexes. Prospective operators must be limited or public limited companies registered in Thailand with a minimum of 10 billion baht in registered capital. During the online hearing, held between 2nd and 18th August, citizens proposed several amendments to the bill. Many called for the bill’s name to be changed to the "integrated resort bill" to reflect a more amenable image. Suggestions also included altering the licence duration, with some urging a reduction to 10 years and others recommending an extension to 50-60 years. There were calls for a reduced entrance fee for Thai citizens, ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 baht, and the proposed implementation of a nationwide fee for 10 years. Concerns were raised about potential money laundering, crime, and social issues associated with legalised gambling. As a solution, participants proposed forming a fund to compensate for any negative impacts, reported Bangkok Post. The Cabinet’s review could reshape the future of entertainment complexes in Thailand, seeking a balance between economic benefits and social responsibility. -- 2024-10-17

Pattaya Police Crack Down on Unregistered Bolt Drivers By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya police cracked down on the misuse of vehicles, particularly among Bolt drivers, resulting in multiple arrests. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340904-pattaya-police-crack-down-on-unregistered-bolt-drivers/

Pattaya police cracked down on the misuse of vehicles, particularly among Bolt drivers, resulting in multiple arrests. The traffic operation took place on October 15th at Bali Hai Pier, where Pattaya police joined forces with city officials to enforce traffic regulations and address the improper use of vehicles at the pier. During the operation, authorities arrested 15 Bolt drivers for using vehicles that were not consistent with their registered purpose. Another five drivers were also arrested for parking over the red-and-white lines. All drivers cooperated well with the authorities. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS -- 2024-10-17

Pattaya Council Plans Traffic Overhaul with One-Way Streets, Odd-Even Parking File photo for reference only In an effort to tackle traffic congestion, the Governance and Order Committee of Pattaya City Council, led by Anupong Puttanawarat, convened for the fourth time this year on 15th October. The focus was squarely on reorganising city traffic, introducing one-way street systems and regulating parking through an even-odd day scheme—a decision that affects major traffic spots like Lan Pho Market, Old Market, New Market, and Soi Post Office. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340881-pattaya-council-plans-traffic-overhaul-with-one-way-streets-odd-even-parking/

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 17 October 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1340872-thailand-live-thursday-17-october-2024/

Foreign man’s tattoo blunder: ‘Love, peace, and curry’ Photo by thirstyfridays via Reddit A foreign man sparked a social media frenzy after showing off his new Thai tattoo, only for eagle-eyed netizens to point out a major mix-up. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340882-foreign-man’s-tattoo-blunder-‘love-peace-and-curry’/

Search continues for 12 year old Thai girl missing for 12 days Photo via Facebook/ กระแสข่าวชาวกระบี่ทีวีออนไลน์ A Thai mother and aunt in the southern province of Phang Nga are searching for her 12 year old girl, who has been missing for 12 days since October 5, when the family left the girl alone at home to attend a vegetarian festival. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340868-search-continues-for-12-year-old-thai-girl-missing-for-12-days/

Phuket taxi driver hits foreign man on airport zebra crossing Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ A Thai taxi driver hit a foreign man on a zebra crossing at Phuket International Airport yesterday leaving the man with serious injuries. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340867-phuket-taxi-driver-hits-foreign-man-on-airport-zebra-crossing/

Thailand's Central Bank Cuts Interest Rate to Boost Economic Growth Thailand’s central bank has surprised markets with an unexpected decision to cut its key interest rate by 25 basis points, reducing it from 2.5% to 2.25%. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340865-thailands-central-bank-cuts-interest-rate-to-boost-economic-growth/

Thailand's Central Bank Cuts Interest Rate to Boost Economic Growth Thailand’s central bank has surprised markets with an unexpected decision to cut its key interest rate by 25 basis points, reducing it from 2.5% to 2.25%. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340865-thailands-central-bank-cuts-interest-rate-to-boost-economic-growth/

Thailand’s central bank has surprised markets with an unexpected decision to cut its key interest rate by 25 basis points, reducing it from 2.5% to 2.25%. The move comes after five consecutive meetings where the rate was held steady, and amid persistent calls from the government for monetary easing to support a sluggish economy. Despite inflation remaining below target, the decision aims to address the rapid appreciation of the baht and ease the debt burden faced by households. Economic analysts had not widely predicted this change, with only four out of 28 economists anticipating such a reduction. The shift in policy, which last saw a rate increase in September 2023, is part of a strategy aligned with the government's fiscal stimulus efforts. The central bank forecast economic growth improving slightly to 2.7% in 2024, and 2.9% in 2025, although the growth is modest compared to regional peers. Thailand has been grappling with high household debt and borrowing costs alongside weak export figures. As of June, the country's household debt ratio was 89.6% of GDP, one of the highest in Asia. The latest reduction in the interest rate aims to alleviate some financial pressures by lowering debt servicing costs, potentially spurring more consumer spending and investment. Alongside Thailand, the Philippine central bank also cut its key interest rate by 25 basis points, citing manageable price pressures and aiming to maintain inflation within its 2% to 4% target range. However, the Bank of Indonesia maintained its rates, aligning with analyst predictions. The unexpected rate cuts in both Thailand and the Philippines reflect broader efforts in Southeast Asia to support economic activity amid challenging global conditions. The impact of these monetary policy decisions will likely unfold over the coming months as markets and consumers adapt to the new financial landscape, reported Thai Newsroom, Reuters. -- 2024-10-16

Labour crisis in Chon Buri as 20,000 workers face unemployment by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod English A significant labour crisis looms in Chon Buri as 20,000 workers face potential unemployment due to financial strain on 16 subcontractor companies. This situation has put 60,000 family members at risk, with unpaid wages persisting for six months. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340844-labour-crisis-in-chon-buri-as-20000-workers-face-unemployment/

A significant labour crisis looms in Chon Buri as 20,000 workers face potential unemployment due to financial strain on 16 subcontractor companies. This situation has put 60,000 family members at risk, with unpaid wages persisting for six months. The Federation of Refinery Contractors TOP Clean Fuel Project (CFP) gathered yesterday, October 15, at the Holiday Inn & Suites Si Racha Laem Chabang, Chon Buri to address the pressing issue. This consortium, comprising 16 Thai subcontractors, is spearheaded by Chatmongkol Khemaphirat, Assistant Managing Director of SCC Ltd., alongside Yutthana Kanjanaram, CAZ Corporate Coordinator, Weerapol Ocharos, Managing Director of CKC, Chanint Setaaputra, CEO of IETL, and Natthawut Ratchaisit, Director and Deputy General Manager of TREL. Together, they highlighted the severe impact of delayed payments by the main contractor, affecting the operations of smaller subcontractors. The press conference underscored the dire consequences of not receiving contractual payments for over six months. Not only has this delay hampered the financial liquidity of several subcontractors, hindering their ability to meet project deadlines and maintain quality but it has also affected budget allocation for labour and material procurement. Without immediate resolution, these companies risk failing to fulfil their contracts, which could lead to a cascade of problems, including: Unpaid wages causing worker protests. Financially strained companies potentially laying off their entire workforce soon. Approximately 20,000 site workers face unpaid wages and compensation, indirectly affecting 60,000 family members. The Clean Fuel Project’s potential failure to meet its construction deadlines if subcontractors are forced to halt operations. The subcontractors continue working despite not receiving payments due to contractual obligations preventing work stoppages under any circumstances. Non-payment is not considered a breach justifying work suspension or contract termination. Any legal disputes would need to be resolved in Singapore under English law. The press conference aimed to: Demand clarity from the project owner on how they will handle subcontractors’ inability to sustain their workforce without pay for over six months. Identify who the subcontractors can claim unpaid wages from. Prevent exploitation of Thai subcontractors by foreign contractors. If the project owner fails to provide a clear action plan following the official press conference, the subcontractors are prepared to mobilise management and staff from all 16 companies. They plan to march from Boonjitt Wittaya School to the refinery’s front to submit a letter to the management on October 18 at 9am. Further actions include seeking justice from Suchart Chomklin, Deputy Minister of Commerce, and Thawatchai Srithong, Governor of Chon Buri, to support the affected businesses and workers. If unresolved, the next step involves appealing to the Ministry of Energy and Industry, reported KhaoSod. The Clean Fuel Project, valued at US$4,825 million (approximately 158,404 million baht), began in 2019 and was expected to be completed by 2023. Located in Si Racha, Chon Buri, the project involves 16 subcontractors including CAZ, CKC, CMG, FSC, IETL, ITE, LHL, RCS, RMC, SCC, SBD, STECON, SWOT, TJEL, TREL, and VAP, all of whom are now seeking urgent intervention and assistance. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod English Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-16

125 million baht in assets temporarily seized in iCon Group scandal by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ บอสพอล วรัตน์พล The Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) temporarily seized 125 million baht in assets from the iCon Group CEO and three key members of the executive board for up to 90 days during an investigation into its alleged Ponzi scheme. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340834-125-million-baht-in-assets-temporarily-seized-in-icon-group-scandal/

The Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) temporarily seized 125 million baht in assets from the iCon Group CEO and three key members of the executive board for up to 90 days during an investigation into its alleged Ponzi scheme. The AMLO issued an official statement yesterday, October 15, announcing that the assets of the four main leaders of the iCon Group would be apprehended for up to 90 days to prevent them from concealing or transferring assets during the investigation. The four executives mentioned in the statement are iCon Group CEO Waratphol “Paul” Waratworakul, TV host Kan Kantathavorn, Nichaphon Thongmee, and Jittaya Hong-uppatham. The total value of the assets seized from the four executives exceeds 125 million baht, including funds in securities trading accounts, current accounts, savings accounts, and digital asset trading accounts, along with accrued interest. The AMLO also issued a warning to anyone involved in transferring, receiving, or altering the condition of these assets, cautioning them about the penalties for money laundering, which can include imprisonment for one to 10 years, fines ranging from 20,000 to 200,000 baht, or both. More complaints continue to be filed against the iCon Group, with further information and scandals related to the company being exposed. Both former investors and ex-employees of the company came forward, sharing confidential details with the media. Recently, two crucial voice recordings were made public, suggesting that Boss Paul paid bribes to deities, suspected of referring to Thai government officials and politicians who allegedly supported his business. On the Channel 7 news programme ถกไม่เถียง (The Discussion), a Thai man named Palm appeared and claimed to be a former employee of the company. Palm alleged that the iCon Group was operating illegally and had to pay bribes to the deities to continue its operations. According to Palm, the company exchanged cash for the cryptocurrency USDT through illegal Chinese businesses in Thailand to pay bribes, making the transactions difficult to trace. Palm claimed that these operations cost the company more than 10 billion baht in payments to the deities. He added that a powerful person known only as “T” acted as the company’s advisor, helping them avoid serious criminal charges, and hinted that an even more powerful figure was backing Boss Paul. Palm also alleged that the company falsified its records, reducing the number of agents from 600,000 to 300,000 before submitting the figures to the police. The founder of non-profit organisation Saimai Survive, Ekkaphop Leuangprasert, revealed on a news programme that he possesses voice recordings as evidence and issued a warning to the deities to step back from the issue. He threatened to reveal the names of all the influential figures involved if they did not withdraw from the matter. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ บอสพอล วรัตน์พล Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-16

Late-night LPG truck crash in Bang Pakong causes major damage by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of ข่าว ส.ว.ท.014 A late-night accident involving an LPG gas truck colliding with a parked pickup truck caused significant damage but no injuries or fatalities. The incident occurred around 11pm yesterday, October 15, in front of Burapha Village in Bang Wua, Bang Pakong district, Chachoengsao province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340832-late-night-lpg-truck-crash-in-bang-pakong-causes-major-damage/

A late-night accident involving an LPG gas truck colliding with a parked pickup truck caused significant damage but no injuries or fatalities. The incident occurred around 11pm yesterday, October 15, in front of Burapha Village in Bang Wua, Bang Pakong district, Chachoengsao province. Police from the Bang Pakong Police Station were promptly notified and rushed to the scene. Upon arrival, they found the LPG gas truck, belonging to a company, had crashed into a pickup truck parked by the roadside. Two vehicles were damaged in the collision, but fortunately, no one was injured or killed. The gas truck driver explained that after delivering gas in Bangkok, he was en route to a rest stop in Bang Pakong. As he was driving, he suddenly collided with a parked pickup truck. The driver insisted that he was not drowsy and did not fall asleep at the wheel but he could not explain why he failed to see the parked vehicle, leading to the crash, reported KhaoSod. “I did not fall asleep. I don’t know why I didn’t see the parked truck.” Police documented the scene by taking photographs and plan to further question the gas truck driver at the Bang Pakong Police Station. They will also review CCTV footage to determine the exact cause of the accident. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of ข่าว ส.ว.ท.014 Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-16

Prawit Visits Parliament to Sign In, Then Leaves – Misses 84 of 95 Sessions Picture via Sanook General Prawit Wongsuwan, MP and leader of the Palang Pracharath Party, made a brief appearance at the Parliament building this morning. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340831-prawit-visits-parliament-to-sign-in-then-leaves-–-misses-84-of-95-sessions/

Picture via Sanook General Prawit Wongsuwan, MP and leader of the Palang Pracharath Party, made a brief appearance at the Parliament building this morning. Arriving around 7:40 a.m. with his security detail, he went to the second-floor entrance of the House of Representatives chamber to sign in and confirm his presence before the session's official start at 9:00 a.m. However, immediately after signing, he left the premises in his private vehicle. Reports indicate that General Prawit has rarely been seen at Parliament in recent months. His last appearance was reportedly during the selection of the prime minister in late 2023. Since then, he has missed numerous parliamentary sessions. The latest data, revealed by former Pheu Thai Party spokesperson and MP Phrompong Nopparit, highlights General Prawit's frequent absences. Between July 3, 2023, and September 19, 2024, Parliament held 95 sessions, of which he missed 84. This has raised concerns about his commitment to parliamentary duties. This public scrutiny follows calls for accountability, as citizens question the role of their elected officials in the legislative process. General Prawit’s attendance record has prompted further debate over his participation and representation as a senior member of the Palang Pracharath Party, reported Sanook. -- 2024-10-16

Lost Italian tourist rescued after night in Phuket jungle by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Sakhu Police An Italian tourist thanked local officials for their efforts after launching a search to find him when he got lost in the jungle near Nai Yang Beach, Phuket. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340829-lost-italian-tourist-rescued-after-night-in-phuket-jungle/

An Italian tourist thanked local officials for their efforts after launching a search to find him when he got lost in the jungle near Nai Yang Beach, Phuket. Tomas Garcia Martin, a 34 year old Italian national, found himself disoriented during a fishing trip on October 13. Realising his predicament, he contacted the Pullman Naithon Hotel, where he was staying, to inform the staff that he was lost and his phone battery was running low. He mentioned he would wait near some rocks until help arrived. Despite launching a search that night, local police could not locate Martin. The following day, Phuket Provincial Police Deputy Commander Thirawat Liamsuwan resumed the search but the morning efforts yielded no results. The extensive search team included acting Superintendent of Sakhu Police Station Kraisorn Chomchuen, 10 officers from Sakhu Police Station, two Tourist Police officers, seven officers from the Phuket Provincial Police Crime Suppression Division, two officers from the Tourist Assistance Centre, five officers from Sirinath National Park, the village headman from Moo 4, Baan Nai Thon, two rescue workers and experienced locals familiar with the trails. They divided into two teams and scoured the forest and beaches around the Sakhu hills and surrounding areas. By 5pm, Martin had not been located, prompting the team to try contacting him via text message. Fortunately, Martin responded, informing them that he had safely exited the forest around 1pm and was now staying at a hotel in Phuket Town, reported The Phuket News. Police met with Martin to ensure his well-being. Upon realising the extent of the search efforts, Martin expressed his heartfelt gratitude to everyone involved. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Sakhu Police Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-16

Cobra Slithers into Pickup Truck Engine Compartment Picture: Daily News Inhabitants of the Na Khao sub-district in Chana district, Songkhla, gathered in excitement as a venomous cobra was found slithering into the engine compartment of a Toyota pickup truck. As the news spread, locals wasted no time in noting the vehicle's registration number to purchase lottery tickets before the draw later today. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340828-cobra-slithers-into-pickup-truck-engine-compartment/

Picture: Daily News Inhabitants of the Na Khao sub-district in Chana district, Songkhla, gathered in excitement as a venomous cobra was found slithering into the engine compartment of a Toyota pickup truck. As the news spread, locals wasted no time in noting the vehicle's registration number to purchase lottery tickets before the draw later today. On 16 October 2024, Mr Tavisak Boonsed, a member of the Southern Snake Rescue team, along with Mr Apichart Phromsong, and paramedics from local administrative organisations, were on duty in their assigned area when they received a call from 47-year-old Ms Walee Khongkaew, residing at 111, Moo 7, Na Khao, Chana, Songkhla. She reported a snake of an unknown species had entered the wheel arch of her brown Toyota pickup truck, registration number BY 2697, and requested assistance to capture it. Upon receiving the call, the team quickly gathered their snake-catching equipment and rushed to the scene to investigate. The presence of a cobra, notorious for its potency, heightened local anticipation, especially among those hoping to turn this unusual encounter into a stroke of luck in the lottery. Residents gathered to witness the snake rescue operation, eager to see the outcome. Many believed that the sighting of the snake could bring fortune, as they prepared to buy lottery tickets featuring the truck's registration number. The excitement in the air was palpable as locals hoped for a lucky turn of events, reported Daily News. Picture: Daily News -- 2024-10-16

Bangkok Balcony Collapse Leaves Man Severely Injured Picture via Thai Rath A 65-year-old man named Prasong Kraiwisuth suffered severe injuries when a balcony from a four-storey building collapsed onto him. This alarming incident occurred on Charansanitwong Road in the Bang Phlat district. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340824-bangkok-balcony-collapse-leaves-man-severely-injured/

A 65-year-old man named Prasong Kraiwisuth suffered severe injuries when a balcony from a four-storey building collapsed onto him. This alarming incident occurred on Charansanitwong Road in the Bang Phlat district. The collapse took place while Prasong was walking along a footpath, and eye-witness Wae Nawae, a 36-year-old vendor selling fried chicken nearby, promptly called the authorities. Wae reported seeing the victim struck by falling wooden structures and tiles, causing him to lose consciousness with a serious head wound. Prasong was rushed to Siriraj Hospital, though his current condition remains unreported. The severity of the incident highlights existing structural issues, as Wae noted that tiles had previously fallen from the aging balcony, although not as severe. Fortunately, a metal awning on the first floor absorbed much of the impact before debris hit Prasong, otherwise the consequences might have been direr. The awning itself now bears damage from the debris. Authorities from the Bang Phlat Police Station, along with Ruam Katanyu Rescue, responded promptly to the incident. They plan to question Prasong upon his recovery and summon the building’s owner for further investigation. Officials from the Bang Phlat District Office intend to safely remove the remaining damaged structure to prevent future incidents. This unfortunate accident has raised concerns about building safety regulations and maintenance in the area. As the investigation unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the importance of ensuring the integrity of urban structures to protect public safety. Local residents await updates on Prasong’s recovery and hope for prompt action to prevent such hazards from recurring. Picture via Thai Rath -- 2024-10-16