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Post-Match Brawl Erupts Between Foreign Fighters After Thai Boxing Showdown in Phuket By Goongnang Suksawat Patong, Phuket– A post-match fracas erupted at a Patong boxing stadium following a Thai boxing contest between competitors from Russia and Ireland. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328528-post-match-brawl-erupts-between-foreign-fighters-after-thai-boxing-showdown-in-phuket/

Patong, Phuket– A post-match fracas erupted at a Patong boxing stadium following a Thai boxing contest between competitors from Russia and Ireland. The incident, which originally took place on May 26th, gained rapid attention after viral footage circulated across various social media platforms. The disorder began shortly after an Irish boxer was declared the victor of a closely contested match, sparking confrontations between supporters of the Russian and Irish athletes. The skirmish escalated onto the boxing stage, where it continued until intervention by stadium security personnel and local law enforcement. In a statement to the Phuket Express, representatives from the Sports Authority of Thailand’s Phuket Office confirmed that the two boxers involved had reconciled with a handshake, bringing the official proceedings to a close. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-05-30 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

AirAsia soars to new heights: Asia’s best low-cost carrier for 2024 by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Aviation Source News AirAsia Group and its affiliates AirAsia X and Thai AirAsia X have been crowned Asia’s Top Low-Cost Carrier for 2024 by AirlineRatings.com at their prestigious Airline Excellence Awards. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328524-airasia-soars-to-new-heights-asia’s-best-low-cost-carrier-for-2024/

AirAsia Group and its affiliates AirAsia X and Thai AirAsia X have been crowned Asia’s Top Low-Cost Carrier for 2024 by AirlineRatings.com at their prestigious Airline Excellence Awards. This accolade marks a significant milestone in AirAsia’s storied journey. Launched in 2001 by visionary founders Datuk Kamarudin Meranun and Tony Fernandes with just two aircraft, the airline has soared to unimaginable heights. Over the past two decades, AirAsia has transformed from a small operation in Kuala Lumpur into a powerhouse of the Asian aviation industry. AirAsia’s meteoric rise is a testament to its resilience and innovation. The airline has successfully navigated a maze of regulatory hurdles, economic crises, and fierce competition, all while challenging policies that traditionally favoured national carriers. By democratising air travel, AirAsia has redefined the low-cost carrier landscape across the ASEAN region and beyond. Today, the AirAsia Group operates an impressive fleet of over 255 aircraft, connecting more than 165 destinations from its bases in Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Cambodia. Geoffrey Thomas, Editor-in-Chief of AirlineRatings.com, praised AirAsia’s leadership for their extraordinary achievements. “Tony Fernandes and his team, including Group CEO Bo Lingam and AirAsia X CEO Benyamin Ismail, have propelled these airlines to market dominance. “They’ve made travel accessible and affordable for nearly 800 million passengers, delivering exceptional value and a fantastic travel experience.” Reflecting on this recognition, Tony Fernandes, CEO of Capital A and Strategic Advisor to AirAsia Aviation Group, expressed his gratitude. “This award belongs to our airline CEOs, senior team members, and the countless ‘Allstars’ who’ve exceeded expectations. “We are committed to significant growth and expansion, offering more high-quality, low-cost travel options across the globe.” Bo Lingam reiterated this commitment, announcing the addition of over 400 new, state-of-the-art aircraft to meet rising travel demand, reported Aviation Source News. “Low cost doesn’t mean low service. We’re dedicated to providing greater value and choice, not just within Asia, but worldwide.” Benyamin Ismail, CEO of AirAsia X, echoed these sentiments, celebrating the team’s resilience and looking forward to the synergies between Capital A and AirAsia Aviation Group. “We’re not just surviving the pandemic’s aftermath; we’re coming back stronger.” by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Aviation Source News Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-30 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

5 year multiple entry DTA visa (Destination Thailand) from 2024-xx-xx Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) - Remote Workers/Digital Nomads/Freelancers - Participants of activities such as - Muay Thai courses - Thai cooking classes - Sport training - Medical treatment - Seminars - Music festivals etc. Period of stay: 180 days Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328520-5-year-multiple-entry-dta-visa-destination-thailand-from-2024-xx-xx/

Thailand Visa Exemption (60 days) and Visa On Arrival (VOA) (15 days) Valid from 2024-06-01: Visa Exemption (TR-60) Nationals of the following 93 countries and territories are entitled to visa exemption for the purpose of tourism and short-term business engagements, for a period not exceeding 60 days. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328518-thailand-visa-exemption-60-days-and-visa-on-arrival-voa-15-days/

Is Thailand set for another era of bureaucratic reform under Thaksin’s influence? Thailand’s bureaucracy has been frozen in time for over 20 years, with the last real reforms coming around 2002 under the government of Thaksin Shinawatra. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328521-is-thailand-set-for-another-era-of-bureaucratic-reform-under-thaksin’s-influence/

Thailand’s bureaucracy has been frozen in time for over 20 years, with the last real reforms coming around 2002 under the government of Thaksin Shinawatra. Now, with Thaksin back from self-exile and his Pheu Thai Party back in power, the government appears poised to shake up the bureaucratic structure once more. “With no major overhauls, our current bureaucratic structure is pretty much the same as in 1932 [the year of the Siamese Revolution],” said Olarn Thinbangtieo, deputy dean of Burapha University’s Faculty of Political Science and Law. The Siamese Revolution brought the end of absolute monarchy in favor of a constitutional monarchy and democratic government. Thailand’s bureaucratic system Although Thailand has developed its bureaucratic system over time, the country is still considered a bureaucratic polity in which the civil service rivals the elected government in terms of power. Anand Panyarachun was the first prime minister to challenge that status quo with his bureaucratic reforms of 1991. Full story: THai PBS 2024-05-30 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Cannabis Advocates Rally in Bangkok Against Planned Recriminalisation A pedestrian walks past a cannabis shop in Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, May 15, 2024. Dozens of pro-cannabis advocates in Thailand gathered at the health ministry on Thursday to oppose the government’s plan to relist the plant as a narcotic, two years after it was decriminalized. File photo (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Cannabis entrepreneurs, farmers, and activists gathered in Bangkok to protest the government’s plan to reclassify marijuana as a narcotic, only two years after its decriminalisation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328517-cannabis-advocates-rally-in-bangkok-against-planned-recriminalisation/

Cannabis entrepreneurs, farmers, and activists gathered in Bangkok to protest the government’s plan to reclassify marijuana as a narcotic, only two years after its decriminalisation. The rally, held yesterday in front of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific headquarters, saw nearly 2,000 signatures collected to support a legal petition aimed at halting the government’s move. Protesters displayed posters with messages such as "stop villainising cannabis." Jerawat Tanyaprirom, a cannabis business owner who helped gather signatures, stated that the petition would be filed with the Central Administrative Court against Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. Petitioners were required to detail any financial losses they would incur if the government’s reclassification proceeded. “If the government backed down, we wouldn’t need to file this petition. But we want to have this as ammunition,” said Jerawat. Prime Minister Srettha’s recent decision to reverse decriminalisation has plunged Thailand’s cannabis industry into uncertainty. Bangkok-born Srettha announced that cannabis would be reclassified as a category 5 narcotic, making it illegal to produce, sell, import, export, or possess the plant and its products. This comes after Thailand became the first country in Asia to decriminalise cannabis in 2022. Currently, cannabis is designated as a controlled herb, and its recreational use is not entirely prohibited. This status has allowed thousands of dispensaries to thrive since 2022, selling cannabis buds, oil extracts, weed-infused candies, and baked goods. Under the existing drug law, these products must contain no more than 0.2% tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound responsible for the high sensation. Cannabis advocacy groups are calling for government regulation of the industry through legislation rather than a blanket re-criminalisation. Writing Thailand’s Cannabis Future, an advocacy group, released a statement urging the government to avoid using the narcotics law, as it would restrict cannabis cultivation and trade to a select few. “If we use the narcotics law, we will be putting cannabis back in jail and allowing it to be grown by only some groups of people,” said the group. They also announced plans for another rally on June 9, which marks the second anniversary of decriminalisation. All-Time High Cannabis Dispensary owner Naren Tolani believes reclassifying cannabis as a narcotic is a major step backwards. “This industry has developed into a massive contributor to the Thai economy, and forcing the market back underground will have an immensely detrimental effect on people’s livelihood, and health, and of course will cause a major strain on the criminal justice system.” Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin recently announced that new legislation would require permits for growing and using cannabis for medical purposes and research, while recreational use would be banned. He assured that the permit system would not be burdensome for those willing to comply with the law. More than 1 million households have registered with authorities to cultivate cannabis, in addition to commercial growers aiming to capitalise on the growing demand. Despite the proposed reclassification, cannabis for medical and health purposes will still be permitted, according to the prime minister. Top picture: A pedestrian walks past a cannabis shop in Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, May 15, 2024. Dozens of pro-cannabis advocates in Thailand gathered at the health ministry on Thursday to oppose the government’s plan to relist the plant as a narcotic, two years after it was decriminalized. File photo (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) -- 2024-05-30 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

BREAKING New Tax Rules for Expats in Thailand Spark Concern Picture courtesy: MGR online Thailand's recent tax regulation changes have sent ripples through the expat community. By March 2025, foreign retirees and other expats in Thailand will be required to file income tax returns for the 2024 tax year, marking a significant shift in the nation’s approach to taxing foreign residents. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328516-new-tax-rules-for-expats-in-thailand-spark-concern/

Thailand's recent tax regulation changes have sent ripples through the expat community. By March 2025, foreign retirees and other expats in Thailand will be required to file income tax returns for the 2024 tax year, marking a significant shift in the nation’s approach to taxing foreign residents. Background on the New Tax Rules Announced by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin in October 2023, the new tax regime aims to widen the tax base to address the fiscal challenges posed by Thailand’s ageing population. The target is to ensure both economic stability and fair distribution of tax burdens. As a result of this new regime, some retirees could see tax bills exceeding 71,000 Thai Baht. Why the Change? Previously, a legal loophole allowed expats to avoid income tax if they declared that their income was not earned in Thailand within the same year. This loophole, established in 1985, was abolished in September 2023, compelling expats to declare all income earned from January 2024 onwards. The move is part of a broader effort to reduce income inequality and strengthen Thailand’s economic resilience for future challenges. Significant Impact on Expats For many foreign residents, this new requirement will mean navigating unfamiliar tax waters. Tax treaties between Thailand and other countries, including Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Finland, may offer some relief. However, expats are advised to seek professional financial advice to understand how these treaties may impact their specific circumstances, reported ScandAsia. What to Expect With the first tax returns due at the end of March 2025, expats will need to get acquainted with the new system quickly. This development has spurred considerable concern, particularly among retirees who have enjoyed years of tax-free income. Looking Ahead As the March 2025 deadline approaches, the expat community in Thailand faces significant adjustments. Despite the challenges, proper planning and professional advice will be crucial in navigating this new landscape. The move represents a pivotal shift in Thailand's tax policy, emphasizing fairness and preparation for an ageing population. Picture courtesy: MGR online -- 2024-05-30 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 30 May 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1328513-thailand-live-thursday-30-may-2024/

Thai police arrest Frenchman for delivering cocaine using remote-controlled toy car Thai police have apprehended a French individual for attempting to ship cocaine hidden in a toy car to a friend in Cambodia. The drug-laden parcel was discovered by a courier company during routine X-ray checks, prompting them to alert authorities. Photo courtesy of The Thaiger Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328484-thai-police-arrest-frenchman-for-delivering-cocaine-using-remote-controlled-toy-car/

Surprise Find: Chiang Mai Residents Discover 'Kangaroo' in the Middle of Doi Suthep Road Photo courtesy of The Thaiger On May 29th, a kangaroo was spotted at the entrance of Doi Suthep, slightly past Wat Sisoda, in Chiang Mai province, according to a video shared by CM108 Chiang Mai News on Facebook. The marsupial was found around 8:20 a.m., causing quite a buzz amongst social media users. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328473-surprise-find-chiang-mai-residents-discover-kangaroo-in-the-middle-of-doi-suthep-road/

A former transport minister in Thailand recently chose to personally repay a Japanese tourist who was overcharged by an unscrupulous tuk tuk driver in Bangkok. He gave 2,000 baht ($64) in cash to the tourist, stating it was his moral obligation as a Thai citizen to make amends. Former Minister Reimburses Japanese Tourist Overcharged by Tuk Tuk Driver Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328490-former-minister-reimburses-japanese-tourist-overcharged-by-tuk-tuk-driver/

UPDATES: Big visa changes from June 1 UPDATES: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328402-big-thailand-visa-changes-from-june-1/

Red Bull Heiress Sues for Defamation Over Son’s Hit-and-Run Scandal Picture courtesy: Matichon Weekly Chalerm Yoovidhya, the son of the Red Bull co-founder, has initiated legal proceedings against a TV presenter and a former police lieutenant colonel for defamation, demanding compensation of 50 million baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328442-red-bull-heiress-sues-for-defamation-over-son’s-hit-and-run-scandal/

Chalerm Yoovidhya, the son of the Red Bull co-founder, has initiated legal proceedings against a TV presenter and a former police lieutenant colonel for defamation, demanding compensation of 50 million baht. The accusations revolve around statements suggesting he used 300 million baht to influence the legal process surrounding his son Vorayuth ‘Boss’ Yoovidhya, who was involved in a fatal hit-and-run incident. In the case presented by Chalerm's lawyer, Ampol Kaewpan, the allegations are directed at Ubonrat Thao Noi, a TV host, and Police Lieutenant Colonel Sanit Mahathavorn. Both are accused of making defamatory statements on a television programme that implied Chalerm bribed officials to help his son evade justice. Vorayuth Yoovidhya, commonly known as 'Boss,' was implicated in a 2012 hit-and-run accident that resulted in the death of a police officer. Boss subsequently fled the country in a private jet, igniting widespread criticism about the privilege and impunity enjoyed by the rich in Thailand. Chalerm's lawsuit is centred on a broadcast aired on 29 February, where the host claimed his 300 million baht efforts failed to aid his son significantly. The programme's segments were shared extensively on TikTok, garnering over 1.4 million views, which Chalerm’s legal team contends has severely damaged his reputation. The lawsuit seeks not only financial compensation but also public apologies from the defendants. Chalerm demands these apologies be published on social media and in major Thai newspapers for seven consecutive days, along with the removal of the defamatory content. The case has been accepted by the Criminal Court, with a preliminary examination hearing scheduled for 2 September. Ampol states that the 50 million baht defamation suit reflects the gravity of the false accusations and Chalerm's standing. He further specifies that similar actions will be taken against anyone disseminating false information. This legal action highlights Chalerm’s determination to protect his family’s reputation and address what he perceives as widespread misinformation surrounding his son’s case. Picture courtesy: Matichon Weekly -- 2024-05-29 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Faces Mental Health Crisis as Millions Affected Picture courtesy: Insurance Business Nearly 10 million individuals in Thailand are grappling with mental health issues, according to recent data from the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC). Startling figures released in their first-quarter report indicate that almost 11% of the population is at risk of suicide, and around 16% experience regular stress. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328439-thailand-faces-mental-health-crisis-as-millions-affected/

Nearly 10 million individuals in Thailand are grappling with mental health issues, according to recent data from the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC). Startling figures released in their first-quarter report indicate that almost 11% of the population is at risk of suicide, and around 16% experience regular stress. Danucha Pichayanan, Secretary-General of the NESDC, highlighted the severity of the situation, stating that mental health has become a critical concern for the nation. The continuous rise in psychiatric patients, from 1.3 million in 2015 to 2.9 million in 2023, underscores the escalating crisis. “Despite Thailand officially having 2.9 million patients who received medical treatment last year, the actual number of those with mental health issues may reach as many as 10 million, as many people don’t seek treatment,” Danucha explained. This disparity suggests a significant proportion of the population remains untreated, exacerbating the crisis beyond the global average. Between October 2023 and April 2024, the Department of Mental Health found that 15.5% of people with mental health problems experienced high-stress levels, 17.2% were at risk of depression, and 10.6% were at risk of suicide. These figures have worsened over previous years, indicating escalating mental health challenges with significant economic impacts. The World Health Organisation (WHO) reports that depression and anxiety contribute to the loss of about 12 billion workdays globally, resulting in an economic loss exceeding US$1 trillion (36 trillion baht). Nearly one in five individuals with mental health issues are unable to care for themselves, creating an additional burden on families and human resources. Alarmingly, less than a quarter of high-risk psychiatric patients receive adequate care. The NESDC attributes the increased rates of depression and anxiety to rising economic and social pressures. In 2023, these mental health issues surpassed methamphetamine and other substance abuses as the predominant mental health concerns. Danucha cited the alarming suicide rate of 7.94 per 100,000 people, nearing the peak of the 1997 Tom Yum Kung crisis. Echoing these concerns, recent research suggests that factors such as air pollution are further exacerbating mental health issues. A study in the UK revealed a 20% increase in depression among young people due to air pollution, while research from Mahidol University found that seven in ten people in Bangkok experience burnout at work. Picture courtesy: Insurance Business -- 2024-05-29 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Man Arrested for Rape and Infecting Girl with HIV Picture courtesy: MGR online In a deeply distressing case that has shocked Bangkok and the wider community, a man has been arrested for sexually assaulting his step-granddaughter over a span of nearly a decade and infecting her with HIV. The suspect, a 59-year-old known as Nookarn, was taken into custody after evading initial police efforts. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328437-thai-man-arrested-for-rape-and-infecting-girl-with-hiv/

In a deeply distressing case that has shocked Bangkok and the wider community, a man has been arrested for sexually assaulting his step-granddaughter over a span of nearly a decade and infecting her with HIV. The suspect, a 59-year-old known as Nookarn, was taken into custody after evading initial police efforts. The shocking ordeal began when the victim, now 16, was just seven years old. The abuse continued up until recently, unbeknownst to her grandmother, who shared the house. The girl, who only recently realised the gravity of her situation, reported to the police that she lived in fear due to continuous threats from Nookarn, who warned he would lock her in a duck coop or sell her to a brothel if she sought help. The arrest comes after the victim's brave decision to file a complaint with Bang Khen Police Station on April 28. Though Nookarn initially eluded capture, officers from the Investigation Division of the Metropolitan Police Bureau (IDMB) found him working as a bus driver in Bangkok. After discreetly surveilling him, they arrested him on May 28 in a factory car park in Chachoengsao province. Upon arrest, Nookarn admitted to having sex with the victim but denied raping her, attempting to shift the blame to the victim by accusing her of provocation. He also denied giving her HIV, claiming he has never been tested despite his confidence in his health status. Authorities have since revealed that Nookarn has a criminal history, including a prior drug-related conviction for which he served two years behind bars. He now faces serious charges under Sections 276 and 377 of Thailand’s Criminal Law for sexual assault and assault of a minor. If convicted, Nookarn could face multiple decades in prison and significant fines. The case has raised urgent calls for heightened child protection measures and underscores the need for vigilant community and family intervention to prevent such atrocities. Picture courtesy: MGR online -- 2024-05-29 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

ATTENTION ALL MEMBERS THAI CONSULATE SAVANNAKHET POLICY CHANGE The thai consulate in Savannakhet Lao will go to online appointment booking only effective June 1st (actually on Tuesday June 4th which is the first day they're open after the holiday). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328422-thai-consulate-savannakhet-policy-change

34 Singapore Airlines passengers still in hospital 1 week after deadly turbulence Most of the injuries sustained by passengers on Flight SQ321 from London to Singapore on May 21 involved the head or spine More than a dozen people needed surgery in Thailand, where the flight was diverted. 50 people who were on the flight are still in Bangkok Medical personnel and ambulances wait for injured passengers from Singapore Airlines Flight SQ321 at Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Thailand on May 21. Photo: EPA-EFE Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328430-34-singapore-airlines-passengers-still-in-hospital-1-week-after-deadly-turbulence/