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UPDATE: Pattaya Police Take Action Against Soi 6 Security Guards for Assault on Tourists The Pattaya City Police have detained a trio of security guards implicated in a recent violent altercation with tourists. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328215-physical-altercation-between-guards-and-customers-on-soi-6-in-pattaya-goes-viral/?do=findComment&comment=18943017

Tax refund delays: Stricter checks put paperwork in slow lane by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Stricter document verification has led to delays in personal income tax refunds this year, the Revenue Department reported. An increase in the submission of fraudulent documents, particularly fake income certificates (50 Tawi), prompted the department to scrutinise tax refund documents more meticulously. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328239-tax-refund-delays-stricter-checks-put-paperwork-in-slow-lane/

Stricter document verification has led to delays in personal income tax refunds this year, the Revenue Department reported. An increase in the submission of fraudulent documents, particularly fake income certificates (50 Tawi), prompted the department to scrutinise tax refund documents more meticulously. Vinit Visessuvanapoom, Deputy Director-General and principal advisor on tax base management stated that the department’s heightened caution stems from the rise in fraudulent submissions. Despite the current challenges, Vinit anticipates an improvement next year as companies have been asked to submit income certificates online. Although this is not mandatory, companies that do not comply will need to provide reasons to the department. Some 11.9 million personal income tax forms were filed for the income year 2023, submitted between January 1 and April 29, 2024, marking a 3.34% increase from the same period last year. Of these, 4.25 million were requests for tax refunds, showing a 7.65% increase from the previous year. Refunds have been processed for 3.39 million filings, a 6.77% increase from the previous year, with a total of 33.2 billion baht issued, reflecting a 7.57% year-on-year rise. In fiscal 2023, ending on September 30, 2023, the Revenue Department collected 2.21 trillion baht in taxes, surpassing the target by 9% and exceeding the previous year’s figure by 2.1%. Tax refund delays: Stricter checks put paperwork in slow lane Corporate income tax revenue amounted to 767 billion baht, 13.8% above the target and 5.3% higher than the previous year. Value-added tax revenue totalled 913 billion baht, 5.1% above the target, though 1.8% lower than the previous year. Personal income tax revenue reached 395 billion baht, 10.9% above the target and 7.5% higher than the previous year while petroleum income tax revenue was 48.7 billion baht, 25.1% above the target, despite being 22.4% lower than the previous year. Meanwhile, the Revenue Department anticipates the implementation of draft legislation aimed at taxing multinational enterprises (MNEs) to curb profit shifting to low-tax jurisdictions by 2025. This move is expected to enhance tax revenue by 12 billion baht annually. Director-General Kulaya Tantitemit revealed that the draft legislation incorporates the Top-up Tax Act, which aligns with the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development’s (OECD) Pillar 2 principles, along with subordinate laws. by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-27 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

New Mobile Banking Rules Aim to Curb 'Horse' Accounts Picture courtesy: Bangkokbiznews Starting 27 May, users of mobile banking services in Thailand must ensure that the name registered with their SIM card matches the name on their bank account. This crackdown targets over a million "mule accounts," used fraudulently. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328237-new-mobile-banking-rules-aim-to-curb-horse-accounts/

Starting 27 May, users of mobile banking services in Thailand must ensure that the name registered with their SIM card matches the name on their bank account. This crackdown targets over a million "mule accounts," used fraudulently. The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTTC) advises users to dial *179*ID number# to verify their registration details. If the names do not align, mobile banking services will be blocked until corrections are made at a service centre. Previously, it was possible to have a bank account registered under one name and use a SIM card registered under another name. However, due to increasing incidents of "mule accounts" and fraudulent activities, the government has introduced new regulations. Minister of Digital Economy and Society, Mr. Prasert Chanratwongthong, emphasised that these measures are essential for curbing financial fraud. If mismatches are detected, a notification will be sent through mobile banking apps, advising users to rectify the information. If not corrected within the given timeframe, the bank account remains usable, but mobile banking services will be inaccessible. Currently, Thailand has 106 million mobile banking accounts, with an estimated 30 million having mismatched registration details. The government aims to shut down about 100,000 mule accounts each month through these measures. General Nathorn Phosunsorn, head of NBTTC’s legal committee, stated that the agency will review and match data from commercial banks and the Anti-Money Laundering Office to identify discrepancies. The entire verification process is set to be completed within 120 days. Thus, mobile operators, banks, and NBTTC are jointly working to notify and update account details to prevent fraudulent activities effectively. The government is determined to tighten security and protect citizens from online crimes. Picture courtesy: Bangkokbiznews -- 2024-05-27 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Assessing Phuket's Readiness for the Tourism Boom File photo courtesy: Wikimedia Phuket's tourism boom is undeniably impressive, yet it raises important questions about whether the island is prepared to handle such a surge sustainably and effectively. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328236-assessing-phukets-readiness-for-the-tourism-boom/

Phuket's tourism boom is undeniably impressive, yet it raises important questions about whether the island is prepared to handle such a surge sustainably and effectively. Here are some key aspects that need to be considered: Infrastructure and Transportation - **Airport Capacity**: With significant increases in daily arrivals, Phuket International Airport must manage the influx smoothly. Potential upgrades in terminals, baggage handling, and customs processing may be necessary. - **Road Traffic**: Tourism-related traffic congestion is a concern. Improvements in road infrastructure and the introduction of efficient public transportation systems could alleviate some of these issues. Environmental Impact - **Sustainability**: Increased tourism often leads to environmental degradation. Phuket must prioritize sustainable tourism practices to protect its natural landscapes, coral reefs, and marine life. - **Waste Management**: Effective waste management systems need to be in place to handle the additional waste generated by millions of tourists. Accommodation - **Room Availability**: While the current hotel occupancy rates are robust, consistent growth might push the limits of available accommodation. Assessing the capacity and planning for new developments without compromising environmental standards is crucial. - **Cost and Quality**: Balancing room prices and maintaining service quality is vital to ensure that tourists have a positive experience without alienating potential future visitors by becoming too expensive. Social and Community Impact - **Local Community**: Engagement with local communities to ensure they benefit from tourism through employment opportunities and community development projects is essential. It’s important to avoid conflicts that can arise from overcrowding and over-commercialization. - **Cultural Preservation**: Efforts must be made to preserve local culture and traditions, ensuring that tourism development does not erode Phuket's cultural heritage. Health and Safety - **Healthcare Facilities**: With more tourists, the demand for healthcare services will naturally increase. Ensuring that local healthcare facilities are adequately equipped to handle this is vital. - **Safety Measures**: Implementing effective crowd management strategies and emergency response plans is crucial for maintaining tourist safety. Economic Balance - **Revenue Diversification**: Relying too heavily on tourism can be risky. Diversifying the local economy to include other sectors can provide a buffer against tourism downturns. - **Fair Distribution of Income**: Ensuring that tourism revenue benefits the wider community, not just big businesses, can promote inclusive growth. Regulatory Oversight - **Policy Implementation**: Stringent policies and effective monitoring systems are needed to manage tourism growth sustainably. This includes clear guidelines on property development, environmental protection, and business operations. - **Tourist Quotas**: In some sensitive areas, implementing tourist quotas might be necessary to prevent overcrowding and environmental degradation. In Conclusion Phuket has demonstrated resilience and adaptability in the face of increasing tourist numbers, but sustained efforts are required to maintain this momentum. By focusing on sustainable development, infrastructure improvements, environmental protection, and community well-being, Phuket can ensure that it remains a top destination for tourists while preserving its unique charm and character. File photo courtesy: Wikimedia -- 2024-05-27 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Senate Votes to Proceed Amid Election District Drama File photo. Picture courtesy: js100 The announcement by Election Commission (EC) Secretary-General Sawaeng Boonmee highlights the robustness of the senatorial election process despite notable challenges. The discrepancies in district applications and the stringent qualifications required for candidacy have posed significant hurdles but have not deterred the proceeding of the elections as planned. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328234-senate-votes-to-proceed-amid-election-district-drama/

The announcement by Election Commission (EC) Secretary-General Sawaeng Boonmee highlights the robustness of the senatorial election process despite notable challenges. The discrepancies in district applications and the stringent qualifications required for candidacy have posed significant hurdles but have not deterred the proceeding of the elections as planned. With voter application numbers not meeting the EC's expectations, concerns about efficient voting and potential election tampering have come to the fore. Sawaeng's firm assurance that the EC remains vigilant about monitoring election integrity is critical in maintaining public trust. The thorough vetting process, already disqualifying 109 applicants, underscores the commitment to adhere to legal and ethical standards for candidate eligibility. The regional disparities in candidate numbers, such as the high turnout in Sisaket province versus the low turnout in Nan province, prompt a closer examination of regional political dynamics and engagement levels. The EC’s response to the recent Administrative Court ruling allowing greater freedom in candidate campaigns further reflects the body's commitment to adapting to judicial oversight while maintaining electoral integrity. This senatorial election is notably significant given the expiry of the junta-appointed Senate's term. The structured six-round voting process—spanning district, provincial, and national levels—aims to ensure a broad and representative selection of senators from diverse occupational fields. By emphasizing representation and thorough candidate scrutiny, this election marks a pivotal moment in shaping Thailand's legislative framework for the coming years. Sawaeng’s call for public vigilance against election tampering and his emphasis on the election's legality provide a foundation for transparency and public engagement. The unfolding of this election process will likely be a critical determinant of public confidence and political stability in Thailand's evolving democracy. File photo. Picture courtesy: js100 -- 2024-05-27 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Monday 27 May 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328230-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-monday-27-may-2024/

A police panel has been established to investigate whether arson was involved in the fires at chemical storage warehouses in Rayong and Ayutthaya this year. The Forensic Science Office inspected the Ayutthaya chemical plant and suggested that the fires, which occurred twice, first in February and again at the beginning of this month—may have been deliberately set. The Ministry of Digital Economy is aims to protect mobile banking customers from scammers. From today the name registered on a sim card must match the owner of the bank account being accessed. Users with mismatched names will need to update their details with their SIM card provider. Out of 106 million SIM cards in use nationwide, about 30 million do not match the registered names. A Belgian man named Steve, aged 42, was arrested in Nakhon Phanom for killing his Belgian friend Christophe. Steve confessed to shooting Christophe three times with a .22 pistol, burning the body in a pit with rubber tires and sticks, and dumping the victim's motorcycle in a pond. Steve claimed the killing occurred after Christophe, who frequently asked for money, threatened his family and home. Thailand's Department of Disease Control is increasing surveillance for avian influenza following the report of a second human case of bird flu by US health authorities last week. In both cases, the patients contracted the virus after being exposed to infected cows. In Thailand, the last outbreak of bird flu occurred in 2004. Around the region: The Philippines was battered by a severe storm , dumping heavy rain and causing flooding that forced more than 8,000 people to flee their homes. Falling trees killed at least 2 people including a teenage boy. Todays’ WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: Cloudy with heavy thundershowers, 30 degrees celsius Bangkok: Sunny 35 Pattaya: Sunny 34 Phuket and the south: Sunny, partly Cloudy 33. Hua Hin: fine and sunny, light clouds 34C 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 2024-05-27 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

48,000-Plus People Nationwide Running For Senator By Thai Newsroom Reporters Thai parliament meeting chamber. Photo: Thai Rath A TOTAL OF 48,117 people nationwide have applied to run for senator in next month’s unprecedented, complicated race to parliament, an official of the Election Commission said Saturday (May 25). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328229-48000-plus-people-nationwide-running-for-senator/

A TOTAL OF 48,117 people nationwide have applied to run for senator in next month’s unprecedented, complicated race to parliament, an official of the Election Commission said Saturday (May 25). Against earlier predictions of as many as 200,000 people contesting the senatorial election next month, only 48,117 have applied since last Monday until yesterday, the polling agency’s official said. Among that total, the most senatorial contestants were reported in Sisaket, totaling 2,764, followed by Bangkok’s 2,489 and Chiang Mai’s 2,000. The senatorial election is an unprecedented, triple-tiered process in which no constituents nationwide will be involved since all eligible candidates are voting among themselves to pick a total of 200 senior lawmakers. By Thai Newsroom Reporters Thai parliament meeting chamber. Photo: Thai Rath Full story: THAI NEWSROOM 2024-05-27 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pita Leads in Latest Poll, Backed by Majority File photo courtesy: Wikipedia The latest opinion poll conducted by King Prajadhipok’s Institute reveals that the Move Forward Party continues to command significant support among the electorate, with Pita Limjaroenrat being the favored candidate for Thailand Prime Minister. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328227-pita-leads-in-latest-poll-backed-by-majority/

File photo courtesy: Wikipedia The latest opinion poll conducted by King Prajadhipok’s Institute reveals that the Move Forward Party continues to command significant support among the electorate, with Pita Limjaroenrat being the favored candidate for Thailand Prime Minister. **Key Findings from the Poll:** **For Constituency-Based MPs:** - Move Forward Party: 35.7% - Pheu Thai Party: 18.1% - Bhumjaithai Party: 11.2% - Ruam Thai Sang Chart Party: 9.2% - Palang Pracharath Party: 7.8% - Democrat Party: 5% - Chat Thai Pattana Party: 1.6% - Prachachat Party: 1.2% - Other parties/undecided: 10.2% **For Party-Listed MPs:** - Move Forward Party: 44.9% - Pheu Thai Party: 20.2% - Ruam Thai Sang Chart Party: 10.9% - Bhumjaithai Party: 3.5% - Palang Pracharath Party and Democrat Party: 3% each - Prachachart Party: 1.3% - Chart Thai Pattana Party: 0.7% - Other parties/undecided: 12.6% **Preferred Prime Minister:** - Pita Limjaroenrat: 46.9% - Gen. Prayut Chan-o-cha: 17.7% - Paetongtarn Shinawatra: 10.5% - Srettha Thavisin: 8.7% - Anutin Charnvirakul: 3.3% - Jurin Laksanawisit: 1.7% - Gen. Prawit Wongsuwan: 0.4% - Other candidates/undecided: 10.9% **Estimated Combined Seats in House of Representatives:** - Move Forward: 208 - Pheu Thai: 105 - Bhumjaithai: 61 - Ruam Thai Sang Chart: 34 - Palang Pracharath: 30 - Democrat: 22 - Chart Thai Pattana: 10 - Prachachart: 9 - Other parties: 21 These results underscore Move Forward Party's leading position among voters and demonstrate the electorate's preference for change, with Pita Limjaroenrat emerging as a strong candidate for the prime ministership. The data suggests a competitive political landscape, with significant support distributed among various parties. -- 2024-05-27 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Big Joke continues anti-corruption mission in Thailand File photo: Former deputy police chief Pol. Gen. Surachate Hakparn at the National Anti-Corruption Commission, April 22, 2024. Photo credit: Naewna General Surachate Hakparn, widely known by his nickname "Big Joke," continues his relentless mission to eradicate corruption in Thailand, invoking the concept of "People Power." Despite being under scrutiny by multiple investigative bodies, including the Criminal Court and a police disciplinary committee, as well as a review by a prime ministerial panel, General Surachate remains steadfast in asserting his innocence. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328226-big-joke-continues-anti-corruption-mission-in-thailand/

General Surachate Hakparn, widely known by his nickname "Big Joke," continues his relentless mission to eradicate corruption in Thailand, invoking the concept of "People Power." Despite being under scrutiny by multiple investigative bodies, including the Criminal Court and a police disciplinary committee, as well as a review by a prime ministerial panel, General Surachate remains steadfast in asserting his innocence. His unwavering stance is accompanied by a strong public persona, and the public still perceives him as a leading candidate for the role of National Police Commissioner. In a bold move to harness public support and foster transparency, General Surachate launched "Operation Clean House" through his website, Hakparn.com. This initiative aims to investigate the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), leveraging a provision under Section 236 of the 2017 Thai Constitution. By gathering 20,000 verified signatures, Big Joke seeks to compel the Parliament President, Wan Muhamad Noor Matha, to form an investigative panel overseen by the courts to scrutinize the NACC. The entire saga surrounding General Surachate is complex and riddled with legal conundrums. The top cop's status remains highly uncertain, marked by ambiguities in his official position and the legality of administrative actions taken against him. For example, an order signed by the Prime Minister meant to reassign him back to the police force from the Prime Minister’s Office has been contested, similarly to his earlier dismissal by the acting police chief, General Kittirat Phanphet. Interesting developments suggest that General Kittirat appears to now acknowledge Big Joke's status as a senior police officer, signaling possible procedural missteps in the bid to remove him under the new Police Act (2022). This uncertainty fuels General Surachate's belief in his rightful place within the Royal Thai Police hierarchy. In a dramatic turn, he physically appeared at the Royal Thai Police headquarters on April 25th, confidently proclaiming himself as the best candidate to lead the police force by October 2024. As the narrative evolves, General Surachate's campaign against corruption remains a focal point, demonstrating his attempt to channel public support and legal avenues to combat institutional malfeasance, even as he navigates his own professional uncertainties. TOP File photo: Former deputy police chief Pol. Gen. Surachate Hakparn at the National Anti-Corruption Commission, April 22, 2024. Photo credit: Naewna -- 2024-05-27 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Chinese fugitive running luxury scams in Thailand arrested by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of KhaoSod English Thai immigration authorities nabbed a Chinese fugitive running an illicit tour operation in Bangkok. Following a tip-off about an Asian man suspected of working and residing illegally in Thailand, officers launched an in-depth investigation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328224-chinese-fugitive-running-luxury-scams-in-thailand-arrested/

Thai immigration authorities nabbed a Chinese fugitive running an illicit tour operation in Bangkok. Following a tip-off about an Asian man suspected of working and residing illegally in Thailand, officers launched an in-depth investigation. Duan, a 42 year old Chinese fugitive residing in a posh condominium in the Ramkhamhaeng district was apprehended. Duan was already on the radar in China for a significant fraud case. Samut Sakhon Immigration Police began monitoring Duan’s activities and discovered a well-oiled operation. He regularly left his residential compound to escort groups of Chinese tourists to their accommodations, offering bespoke tours that catered to privacy-conscious business travellers, who preferred avoiding mainstream tour companies. With mounting evidence, immigration officers swooped in on Duan as he assisted clients at a luxury hotel in the Ratchadaphisek area. A thorough inspection revealed that his residence permit had expired on February 3. Consequently, the Chinese fugitive was charged with working without authorisation and overstaying his visa. Further investigations revealed a darker side to Duan’s story. Coordination with Chinese security authorities uncovered his criminal past. In January last year, Duan impersonated a regional sales manager for a prestigious wine company, luring several retailers into purchasing high-end rare wines at a supposed 10% discount. He convinced his victims to transfer nearly 2 million yuan (approximately 10 million baht) to his account, only to vanish without delivering the promised goods, reported KhaoSod English. The Public Security Bureau in Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, subsequently issued an arrest warrant and revoked his passport. by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of KhaoSod English Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-27 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thaksin denies role in appointment of Phichit as PM’s Office minister Paroled former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra has categorically refuted any suggestion that the appointment of Phichit Chuenban, his family’s lawyer, as PM’s Office Minister, was a setup to undermine Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328223-thaksin-denies-role-in-appointment-of-phichit-as-pm’s-office-minister/

Paroled former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra has categorically refuted any suggestion that the appointment of Phichit Chuenban, his family’s lawyer, as PM’s Office Minister, was a setup to undermine Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. He claims to be just an old man who has no political position or power whatsoever, adding that his role is to give advice to those younger than him and to help the country as best he can. He maintains that he wants Srettha to remain in office as long as possible, as some problems take a long time resolve. The former prime minister said that the move by 40 senators to seek a Constitutional Court order to remove the prime minister, over his appointment of Phichit, may cause some problems, but will not result in the prime minister being removed. He also denied a suggestion that he might retaliate against the 40 senators. Full story: Thai PBS 2024-05-27 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Hundreds of customers test positive for drugs in raid on Pattaya pub Deputy Interior Minister Chada Thaised led officials of the Provincial Administration Department in a raid on an illegal pub in Pattaya early this morning. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328222-hundreds-of-customers-test-positive-for-drugs-in-raid-on-pattaya-pub/

Deputy Interior Minister Chada Thaised led officials of the Provincial Administration Department in a raid on an illegal pub in Pattaya early this morning. 219 customers tested positive for drugs. The raid, in Soi Kor Pai Pattaya in Bang Lamung district, was in response to complaints from neighbours about loud noises, staying open beyond permissible hours and widespread drug abuse among young customers. About 300 customers, mostly young adults and youths, were found in the pub when it was raided. The officials ordered the pub manager to switch on the lights and cease all the entertainment activity. The customers were separated into males and females, as officials checked their ID cards and took urine samples. Full story: Thai PBS 2024-05-27 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Chonburi Immigration Helps Find Missing Maldivian Businessman’s Son By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: Chonburi Immigration Chonburi immigration officers successfully located and reunited a missing Maldivian man with his concerned father. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328221-chonburi-immigration-helps-find-missing-maldivian-businessman’s-son/

PHOTO: Chonburi Immigration Chonburi immigration officers successfully located and reunited a missing Maldivian man with his concerned father. According to reports, Mr. Zaeen Ismail Mohamed, a Maldivian citizen, had traveled to Thailand on May 17th, 2024, on flight MH796. However, upon arrival at Suvarnabhumi Airport in Samut Prakan province, he mysteriously lost contact with his family in the Maldives. His father, who is a prominent businessman in the Maldives, grew concerned over his son’s sudden disappearance. He thought that his son might have been kidnapped, so he contacted the Maldives Embassy in Thailand, who then alerted Chonburi immigration, prompting a search for Mr. Mohamed. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-05-27 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe