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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 Thirty-four Singapore Airlines Ltd. passengers remain hospitalised in Bangkok almost one week after their flight struck turbulence, underscoring the severity of the fatal incident. In an update late on Monday, the airline said 50 people who were on the London-Singapore service on May 21 are still in the Thai capital, including those receiving medical treatment. All the crew from Flight SQ321 have returned to Singapore. Thai authorities have said most of the injuries involved the head or spine, and more than a dozen people needed surgery. Singapore Airlines has since introduced tighter cabin restrictions during turbulence, though stopped short of compelling passengers to wear seat belts for the whole flight. The airline said it’s cooperating fully with authorities investigating the incident, which left one man dead. The plane made an emergency landing in Bangkok. One dead and dozens injured after Singapore Airlines flight hit by severe turbulence Full story: SCMP 2024-05-29 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Wednesday 29 May 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328425-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-wednesday-29-may-2024/

The government has approved several changes to visa requirements, In a bid to boost tourism, These include visa-free and visa-on-arrival schemes, extended stays for students, and reduced health insurance requirements for retirees. The number of countries eligible for visa-free entry will increase from 57 to 93. New five-year visas for working tourists allow stays of up to 180 days, which may be extended for another 6 months at a time. Foreign higher education students can now stay for one year after graduation instead of having to leave immediately, these changes come into effect from 1st of June. Hundreds of cannabis entrepreneurs, farmers, and activists rallied in Bangkok yesterday, threatening legal action against the government's plan to reclassify marijuana as a narcotic. They collected 2,000 signatures on a petition outlining potential financial losses if the government proceeds. The proposed u turn has created new uncertainty for Thailand's cannabis industry. Thailand is moving forward with plans to join BRICS, an intergovernmental organization currently expanding beyond its founding members: Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. The group was designed to bring together the world's most important developing countries, to challenge the political and economic power of the wealthier nations of North America and Western Europe. The Department of Justice will amend rules to let pretrial suspects avoid jail by wearing electronic ankle monitors. the aim is to reduce prison overcrowding; currently, Thai prisons hold over 280,000 inmates, far exceeding the 180,000 capacity, with about 50,000 awaiting trial. Around the region: A Hong Kong court will deliver verdicts this week in the biggest case brought against pro-democracy campaigners since China imposed a national security law to crush dissent. Forty-seven people from a cross-section of Hong Kong’s then opposition face life in prison on charges of subversion over political activities in 2020, following democracy protests that saw millions take to the streets. 31 have pleaded guilty. Todays’ WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: Cloudy with thundershowers, 34 degrees celsius Bangkok: Cloudy with thundershowers 35 Pattaya: bright but Cloudy 33. Phuket and the south: Sunny, 33. Hua Hin: fine and sunny, becoming cloudy this afternoon 35C 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 2024-05-29 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

PM Silent on Senators’ Impeachment Attempt Amidst Political Tensions Srettha Tavesin. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin today refrained from commenting on speculations tying numerous senators, seeking his impeachment, to Palang Pracharath leader Prawit Wongsuwan. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328424-pm-silent-on-senators’-impeachment-attempt-amidst-political-tensions/

Srettha Thavisin. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin today refrained from commenting on speculations tying numerous senators, seeking his impeachment, to Palang Pracharath leader Prawit Wongsuwan. This comes as the impeachment case, filed by 40 senators, progresses through the Constitutional Court. Srettha has a 15-day period to submit his defence. Ignoring calls for further accusations, Srettha emphasised unity within the coalition government, including Palang Pracharath. The senators who filed the case are believed to have affiliations with either former Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha or Prawit. The core of the controversy revolves around Srettha’s appointment of Pichit Chuenban to the cabinet. Pichit, a former lawyer for influential figure Thaksin Shinawatra, was named as a minister attached to the Prime Minister's Office. Critics argue that Srettha violated constitutional and ethical standards, given Pichit's past misconduct. In response to mounting pressure, Pichit resigned, yet the impeachment bid remains active against both him and Srettha. The challenge is centred on whether Srettha knowingly overlooked Pichit's past ethical breaches for political gain. In 2008, Pichit had been convicted of attempting to bribe Supreme Court officials, resulting in a six-month jail sentence. Prawit Wongsuwan. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia The upcoming court proceedings could determine Srettha’s political future. If found guilty, he risks losing his position and facing a ban from political activities for several years. Analysts forecast a court decision within the next few months, with significant implications for Thailand's political landscape. For now, Thailand's Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin remains focused on governance, navigating the legal and political complexities without inflammatory statements. Meanwhile, the nation watches closely as developments unfold, mindful of the potential shifts in the balance of power. -- 2024-05-29 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Welcomes 14.3 Million Tourists, Boosts Economy Photo courtesy: TAT news Thailand has seen a significant surge in international tourism, with 14.3 million visitors arriving in the first five months of this year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328421-thailand-welcomes-143-million-tourists-boosts-economy/

Thailand has seen a significant surge in international tourism, with 14.3 million visitors arriving in the first five months of this year. This influx has generated nearly 683 billion baht (US$18.7 billion) in revenue, a boon for the country's economy. The Tourism and Sports Minister, Sermsak Pongpanich, presented these optimistic figures, attributing this growth to increased confidence and eased travel restrictions. Leading the charge in visitor numbers is China, contributing 2.9 million tourists. Following closely are Malaysia with 1.9 million, Russia with 836,868, India with 810,513, and South Korea with 785,600 visitors. These figures highlight a particular spike from short-haul markets like Malaysia, India, Singapore, and Indonesia, with an overall increase of 7.3%. During the past week alone, Malaysia saw a surge of 36,242 tourists, a 44.49% increase from the previous week. The weekly tally stood at 596,552 international tourists, marking a 4.30% rise compared to the week before. On average, Thailand is currently greeting 85,222 international tourists daily, with numbers expected to climb even higher amid upcoming public holidays in nearby countries and relaxed travel restrictions. Several key government initiatives have facilitated this boom. The visa waiver agreement with China is set to enhance tourist confidence and encourage airlines to increase flight frequencies. Similarly, Thailand has waived visa requirements for visitors from India, Taiwan, and Kazakhstan. Streamlining entry processes, such as removing the TM.6 immigration form at key land checkpoints for Malaysian and Laotian tourists, has also played a significant role. The tourism sector is critical to Thailand’s economy, and these rising figures indicate a strong rebound. By focusing on easing travel restrictions and improving partnerships with key countries, Thailand aims to sustain this momentum. The positive trend observed so far suggests a bright outlook for the remainder of the year, signalling robust growth for the nation's tourism industry. Photo courtesy: TAT news -- 2024-05-29 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Cracking news: Egg prices to soar due to extreme weather by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of gpointstudio on Freepik As announced by the Thai Cooperative Network for Chicken Egg Producers, egg prices are set to rise by 20 satangs per egg tomorrow, citing the extreme weather as the reason for the increase. The farm price for eggs will be 4 baht each, marking an increase of 6 baht per tray. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328420-cracking-news-egg-prices-to-soar-due-to-extreme-weather/

As announced by the Thai Cooperative Network for Chicken Egg Producers, egg prices are set to rise by 20 satangs per egg tomorrow, citing the extreme weather as the reason for the increase. The farm price for eggs will be 4 baht each, marking an increase of 6 baht per tray. The members of the network include producers from Chachoengsao, Chon Buri, Chiang Mai-Lamphun, and the Lower Chao Phraya River Basin. These organisations collectively decided on the price hike to support their members during this difficult period. The network has informed its members and egg farmers about the price adjustment, citing the extreme heat this year as a significant factor. The heatwave has severely impacted the health and productivity of the chickens, leading to a reduced supply of eggs. Consequently, the cooperatives decided to adjust the prices to reflect these changes. The representatives detailed that the price of mixed eggs at the farm level will increase by 20 satangs per egg, resulting in a new price of 4 baht per egg. This translates to an increase of 6 baht per tray, effective from tomorrow. Farmers and cooperative members have been notified of the impending price increase, and preparations are being made to implement the new prices, reported Khaosod. The announcement comes at a time when consumers are already facing rising costs in various sectors. The increase in egg prices is expected to have a ripple effect, influencing the cost of related products and potentially impacting household budgets. However, the cooperatives emphasise that the price adjustment is necessary to ensure the sustainability of egg production under the current circumstances. As the new prices take effect tomorrow, consumers should be prepared for the increase in egg costs. The cooperatives will continue to monitor the situation closely and make further adjustments if necessary to support their farmers and ensure a stable supply of eggs in the market. The decision highlights the need for adaptive measures and support systems to help agricultural communities navigate these difficulties and maintain their livelihoods. by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of gpointstudio on Freepik -- 2024-05-29 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Agriculture Minister Denies Knowledge Amid Swinging Club Scandal Picture courtesy: Amarin TV High-ranking government officials are embroiled in a scandal as a senior member of the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives stands accused of having an affair with a married woman from a swingers’ club. The club's founder, a man identified only as 'A', has alleged that the official's actions led to the breakdown of his marriage and family. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328419-agriculture-minister-denies-knowledge-amid-swinging-club-scandal/

High-ranking government officials are embroiled in a scandal as a senior member of the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives stands accused of having an affair with a married woman from a swingers’ club. The club's founder, a man identified only as 'A', has alleged that the official's actions led to the breakdown of his marriage and family. 'A' revealed that he personally screens and approves members for the club, which has been hosting gatherings for the past decade. However, problems only arose after the inclusion of the named government official. This individual allegedly violated club rules by forging a close relationship with 'A's wife and lavishing her with expensive gifts, leading to familial discord. 'A' founded the swingers’ club and has stringent regulations, one of which requires him to be present or to participate via video conference whenever his wife engages in club activities. However, due to his demanding schedule, he admitted only occasionally observing his wife and the official during these sessions. The club comprises diverse members including government officials, high-ranking soldiers, police officers, business owners, and individuals involved in illicit activities. Since the scandal broke, all members have left the club for safety reasons. In a revealing interview with ThaiRath, 'A' explained the gravity of the situation, noting that there had never been issues until this specific official joined the group. In an effort to seek justice, 'A' and social media influencer Kantouch “Gun” Pongpaiboonwet submitted a formal complaint against the official at the Ministry of Agriculture’s office on Monday, 27th May. Today, reporters from multiple news agencies sought comments from Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister Thamanat Prompow. Thamanat firmly denied any knowledge of the club or the complaint. He also openly admitted to being unfamiliar with the concept of "swinging," even requesting reporters to explain the term to him. The identity of the implicated government official remains undisclosed, and it is yet uncertain whether any consequences will follow. The scandal continues to unfold, with the public eagerly awaiting further developments. Picture courtesy: Amarin TV -- 2024-05-29 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Hooked: Foreigner makes waves, takes a dip in fish spa (video) by Petch Petpailin Photo by TikTok/ @dai.yin.see.tatto via Channel 8 A foreign man captured the attention of Thai netizens after a viral video on the TikTok application showed him dipping his head into a fish tank foot spa to cool off on a hot day in the northern province of Chiang Mai. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328418-hooked-foreigner-makes-waves-takes-a-dip-in-fish-spa-video/

A foreign man captured the attention of Thai netizens after a viral video on the TikTok application showed him dipping his head into a fish tank foot spa to cool off on a hot day in the northern province of Chiang Mai. A Thai man shared the video on his TikTok account, @dai.yin.see.tatto, yesterday, May 27, with the caption, “When a foreigner comes to Chiang Mai.” The video gained over 1,400 views and numerous comments before being deleted. The video depicted the foreign man immersing his head in a fish tank typically used for foot pedicures and also known as fish spa. A Thai police officer was seen pulling the man out of the thank and questioning his action making him aware the tank was intended for feet, not heads The video sparked a flood of humorous comments from Thai netizens including… “This can cure acne and treat large facial pores.” “Fish spa for the head! Why not?” “Maybe I’m wrong. Not feet, but head.” “He might feel itchy on his head.” “Police should not intervene in the process. He was relaxing!” “He was talking with the fish!” “Could not imagine how many feet dipped in the tank before.” Some netizens speculated that the man might have been too drunk to control himself, while others suggested he was simply too hot to care about the water’s cleanliness. Fish spas are popular among both locals and foreign tourists in Thailand. People dip their feet into the tanks and allow the fish to nibble away dead skin, purportedly resulting in smoother skin. However, many other countries banned it due to health risks and animal cruelty concerns. Health risks include the potential for bacteria and germs to enter the human body through the fish, especially for those with foot wounds. Additionally, the tanks can become a breeding ground for germs after multiple people use them. Animal rights activists also point out that the tanks are not suitable habitats for Garra rufa fish, also known as doctor fish, and that dead skin is not their natural food source. The fish are starving, so they have had to eat dead skin to survive. by Petch Petpailin Photo by TikTok/ @dai.yin.see.tatto via Channel 8 Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-29 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Wissanu Returns as Government Advisor Amid Legal Turmoil File photo courtesy: Thai Rath Wissanu Krea-ngam, a former deputy prime minister, has agreed to serve as an advisor to the Secretariat of the Cabinet, Thailand's Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin confirmed yesterday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328417-wissanu-returns-as-government-advisor-amid-legal-turmoil/

File photo courtesy: Thai Rath Wissanu Krea-ngam, a former deputy prime minister, has agreed to serve as an advisor to the Secretariat of the Cabinet, Thailand's Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin confirmed yesterday. Wissanu, a renowned legal expert who has served in various Thai governments, most recently stepped down from the Prayut Chan-o-cha administration last year. At that time, he cited poor health, including diabetes and kidney disease, and vowed to retire from politics. However, Srettha approached him recently, and Wissanu has accepted the advisory role. Prime Minister Srettha disclosed that the order for Wissanu's appointment is currently being drafted. "I already met and invited Khun Wissanu to take the position. He is ready to do the job," Srettha told reporters. The move comes amid Srettha’s legal challenges, notably a Constitutional Court case where 40 senators seek to strip him of his ministerial status. The senators argue that Srettha’s appointment of Phichit Chuenban as PM Office Minister violated the Constitution. Phichit, who was sentenced to six months in prison for his involvement in the "snack box" bribery scandal over a decade ago, resigned from his position just before the court agreed to hear the petition on May 23. While Phichit’s fate has been decided, Srettha’s ministerial future remains uncertain. Srettha dismissed claims that bringing Wissanu into the team highlights a lack of legal expertise within his government. He urged the public to await the details of the appointment. Addressing the press, Wissanu stated that his role as an advisor is non-political, exempting him from declaring his assets. He also clarified that he is not the chief legal counsel in Srettha's ongoing court battle. Instead, that responsibility falls on former PM Office Minister Phichit Chuenban. Despite accepting the advisory role, Wissanu emphasized he won't take on any political posts due to his health issues. -- 2024-05-29 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Man Appeals for Help Repatriating Overstaying Russian Family Picture courtesy: Wochenblitz A sensitive case in Pattaya has garnered attention as a local apartment owner seeks assistance from Thai authorities to help a Russian man and his two daughters return home. The family, who fled Russia amidst ongoing conflict with Ukraine, overstayed their visas and faced financial difficulties. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328416-thai-man-appeals-for-help-repatriating-overstaying-russian-family/

Picture courtesy: Wochenblitz A sensitive case in Pattaya has garnered attention as a local apartment owner seeks assistance from Thai authorities to help a Russian man and his two daughters return home. The family, who fled Russia amidst ongoing conflict with Ukraine, overstayed their visas and faced financial difficulties. The apartment owner contacted the Chon Buri Provincial Immigration Office, concerned about the wellbeing of the three Russian residents. He pointed out that they could not afford to return to Russia on their own. He called for swift action to repatriate the family, highlighting concerns over the children’s welfare. Over the past year, the apartment owner provided the family with food and financial support, noting their isolation and limited opportunities to go outside. He praised the father’s devotion to his children but worried about the emotional toll and strain leading possibly to self-harm. The Russian man, tearfully explaining to authorities, said he came to Thailand two years ago to avoid conscription into the Russian-Ukrainian conflict, fearing his children would be left alone if he were drafted. Although he sought a safe return for his daughters, financial constraints hindered their journey back. In an emotional plea, he mentioned he was ready to face legal consequences for overstaying his visa, as long as his children could return to Russia safely. Weerachai Tinkamut, an officer from Chon Buri Provincial Immigration Office, supported the family by giving them 2,000 baht in cash. The two girls are now under the care of the Chon Buri Provincial Shelter for Children and Family. Meanwhile, their father was taken to Muang Pattaya Police Station for legal proceedings. After the legal formalities, both the father and children are expected to be deported back to Russia, concluding a poignant chapter in their lives far from home. -- 2024-05-29 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Wednesday 29 May 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1328414-thailand-live-wednesday-29-may-2024/

Big Thailand visa changes from June 1 5-year visas available for digital nomads, boxers and chefs students The cabinet has approved a number of new visa initiatives aimed at attracting more tourists. This includes visa-free and visa-on-arrival schemes, extended stays for students, and a decrease in mandatory health insurance for retirees. The Foreign Ministry suggested these actions due to the country's significant reliance on tourism, according to government spokesperson, Chai Wacharonke. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328402-big-thailand-visa-changes-from-june-1/ Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post

Boy with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Stabs Uncle to Death in Phuket Picture courtesy: Bright TV Late last night, a tragic incident unfolded when a 15-year-old boy with ADHD fatally stabbed his 60-year-old uncle in the Thalang district of Phuket. The horrific event occurred in a rented room where the family lived together. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328341-boy-with-attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd-stabs-uncle-to-death-in-phuke/

Late last night, a tragic incident unfolded when a 15-year-old boy with ADHD fatally stabbed his 60-year-old uncle in the Thalang district of Phuket. The horrific event occurred in a rented room where the family lived together. Thalang Police Station officers were called to the scene around 7 PM, where they discovered the victim, Somkiat Chanhom, suffering from multiple stab wounds to his chest. Despite efforts by emergency medical workers from Thalang Hospital to provide first aid and transport him for further treatment, Somkiat succumbed to his injuries en route to the hospital. The alleged attacker, identified only as Yoi, has been reported to struggle with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This condition often manifests in difficulties with concentration and impulsive actions, which may have played a role in the tragedy. Yoi lived in the rented room with six family members, and frequently argued with Somkiat, who was described as a father figure to him. According to Yoi’s grandmother, Or, the altercation began like any other but escalated quickly. Yoi threw his phone in anger, grabbed two knives, and marched towards Somkiat’s bedroom. Or attempted to intervene, begging Yoi to reconsider and asking Somkiat to secure his door. Despite her pleas, Yoi kicked in the door and attacked Somkiat repeatedly. After Or's daughter intervened, Yoi fled the scene but was apprehended shortly thereafter. Or further explained that Somkiat often cared for Yoi but expressed frustration over the boy’s constant phone usage and inactivity. She had planned to take Yoi to the hospital for his worsening aggression and medication non-compliance the following day, but this plan ended in tragedy. Yoi faces charges under Section 290 of the Criminal Law for causing death through assault. Although the standard penalty ranges from three to 15 years in prison, allowances may be made for his age. Picture courtesy: Bright TV -- 2024-05-28 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Man fatally stabs friend to death over 20 baht in Chon Buri by Nattapong Westwood Image courtesy of Khaosod A Thai man fatally stabbed his friend in Chon Buri after he refused to lend 20 baht. The tragic incident occurred earlier today, with police receiving a report of a stabbing at 12.30am in Mueang District. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328338-man-fatally-stabs-friend-to-death-over-20-baht-in-chon-buri/

A Thai man fatally stabbed his friend in Chon Buri after he refused to lend 20 baht. The tragic incident occurred earlier today, with police receiving a report of a stabbing at 12.30am in Mueang District. Upon arrival, officers found 43 year old Nirun critically injured with a stab wound to his left collarbone. Despite immediate CPR efforts, he was pronounced dead in the rescue vehicle. The suspect, 45 year old Sarawut later confessed to the crime, citing anger and repeated humiliation as his motives. Police inspected the scene at the house of the victim’s relative, 46 year old Rattana. Evidence of a struggle amid the altercation was clear as bloodstains were found inside the residence. According to Rattana, the conflict began when Sarawut, a close friend of the victim, arrived and asked Nirun for 20 baht. Nirun’s refusal, accompanied by questions regarding the reasoning for the money enraged Sarawut. A physical altercation ensued, during which Sarawut, unable to overpower Nirun, instead drew a knife and stabbed him once before fleeing towards the end of the alley. Sarawut revealed his motives during questioning, citing his previous grievances stemming from Nirun’s habit of belittling him and sharing stories of him begging for money with others. This compounded with Nirun’s refusal to lend him 20 baht, ultimately sparking the fatal confrontation. Following the attack, officers managed to apprehend Sarawut near the New Market in Makham Yong, approximately 5 kilometres from the crime scene. The police have detained Sarawut and charged him with murder. Further investigations are underway to uncover additional details and motives behind the incident, reported Khaosod. by Nattapong Westwood Image courtesy of Khaosod Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-28 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Koh Samui Tourism Struggles Amid Infrastructure Challenges Picture courtesy: Royal vacation Efforts to boost tourism in the southern islands of Koh Samui, Koh Pha Ngan, and Koh Tao are underway as the government tackles pressing issues such as water shortages and illegal businesses. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328336-koh-samui-tourism-struggles-amid-infrastructure-challenges/

Efforts to boost tourism in the southern islands of Koh Samui, Koh Pha Ngan, and Koh Tao are underway as the government tackles pressing issues such as water shortages and illegal businesses. Tourism and Sports Minister Sermsak Pongpanich recently engaged with entrepreneurs from Surat Thani’s Koh Samui and Koh Pha Ngan islands to address the province’s pressing tourism challenges. Koh Samui district Chief Kampanat Klinsaowakon noted a marked improvement in tourism since late last year, with a significant influx of tourists, particularly those arriving by cruise ship. Tourism growth, however, is being stifled by infrastructure problems, including inadequate water supplies, road safety concerns, and traffic congestion due to the increased number of visitors. President of the Koh Samui Tourism Association, Ratchaporn Poolsawadee, pointed out that the island’s infrastructure is struggling to keep pace with the rising number of tourists. He highlights how Koh Samui lacks a cruise ship pier despite over 40 cruise ships scheduled to visit this year. Small boats are currently employed to transfer passengers ashore, creating inconvenience and delays that impede tourism growth. He further underlines the persistent issues of water shortages and power outages that plague business operators, particularly during peak tourist seasons. Koh Pha Ngan faces similar infrastructure woes, with the island also dealing with land ownership disputes and tourist safety concerns, especially during the Full Moon Party events. Ratchaporn adds that many business operators in Koh Samui are still grappling with the economic fallout from the Covid-19 pandemic, advocating for lower interest rates and increased access to credit. Additionally, there are calls for the government to intensify efforts against illegal businesses, promote legitimate land ownership, and address nominee investment issues. The concerted push to resolve these challenges aims to bolster the tourism sector, ensuring sustainable growth and improved visitor experiences in these popular Thai destinations. Picture courtesy: Royal vacation -- 2024-05-28 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe