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EU-Thailand Pact: Visa-Free Access for Thai Passport Holders Picture courtesy: Thai Citizenship EU and Thailand to reveal new agreement this year, offering visa-free access for Thai passport holders. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327124-eu-thailand-pact-visa-free-access-for-thai-passport-holders/

EU-Thailand Pact: Visa-Free Access for Thai Passport Holders EU and Thailand to reveal new agreement this year, offering visa-free access for Thai passport holders. The pact aims to strengthen trade and cooperation between the two parties. PM Srettha Thavisin is set to visit France and Italy to further solidify ties with the EU. The government is positive about finalizing a trade and cooperation framework with the EU, which will include visa-free travel to the Schengen zone for Thai citizens. This agreement is expected to boost investment opportunities for Thailand. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is scheduled to travel to France and Italy next week in a bid to enhance relations with the EU. Minister Jakkapong Sangmanee recently announced the plans to seal a free trade deal with the EU this year. Discussions between Thailand and the 27 EU member states began last September in Brussels, followed by talks in Bangkok in January 2024. The final round of negotiations is slated to occur within the EU in June. The EU-Thailand Comprehensive Partnership and Cooperation Agreement will enable Thai passport holders to enter the EU's Schengen zone without a visa. This agreement aims to facilitate economic growth and enhance business opportunities for both parties. During a recent event commemorating Europe Day, Minister Jakkapong highlighted the importance of fostering stronger ties between Thailand and the EU. He emphasized the mutual benefits of the FTA and expressed hope for EU support in granting visa-free access to Thai nationals in the Schengen zone. Picture courtesy: Thai Citizenship -- 2024-05-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thief caught using forgotten ATM card to buy cigarettes for resale Picture courtesy: Matichon A man with a history of theft was arrested by Metropolitan Police Division 1 for stealing an ATM card and using it to buy cigarettes for resale. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327121-thief-caught-using-forgotten-atm-card-to-buy-cigarettes-for-resale/

A man with a history of theft was arrested by Metropolitan Police Division 1 for stealing an ATM card and using it to buy cigarettes for resale. The 46-year-old suspect was apprehended following a warrant issued by the Criminal Court for theft charges. The incident unfolded when a victim reported leaving their debit card at an ATM inside a shopping mall in the Pratunam area. Subsequently, the victim received multiple notifications on their phone regarding transactions made at another shopping mall, amounting to over 10,000 baht (US$270). This prompted the victim to report the incident to the police. The suspect, identified as Prapat, was taken into custody at a bus stop in front of a shopping mall in the Rangsit area in Pathum Thani province. It was revealed that he had a previous arrest in 2016 for theft and had evaded the authorities. He was also arrested in 2020 for violating the Emergency Decree. During questioning, the suspect admitted to targeting ATMs in tourist-heavy areas like Khao San Road, Pratunam, and CentralWorld to find forgotten debit cards. He confessed to using these cards to purchase cigarettes for resale, a scheme he executed at least 10 times, earning around 10,000 baht on each occasion. Following his arrest, police searched his residence and found over 50 packs of cigarettes intended for sale. Authorities urge the public that if they suspect their debit card has been stolen, to immediately notify the bank to block the card and report any unauthorized transactions to take legal action against the thief, even if it's someone they know. Picture courtesy: Matichon -- 2024-05-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Call for Government Review of 10-Year-Old Rice Pledging Scheme Sale Plan File photo for reference only Thailand's Rice Science Centre has urged the government to review its plan to sell rice from a 10-year-old pledging scheme. Researchers want to inspect the old rice to ensure it's safe for consumption. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327120-call-for-government-review-of-10-year-old-rice-pledging-scheme-sale-plan/

Thailand's Rice Science Centre has urged the government to review its plan to sell rice from a 10-year-old pledging scheme. Researchers want to inspect the old rice to ensure it's safe for consumption. Experts, including Professor Dr. Apichart Vanavichit from Kasetsart University, have raised concerns about the storage conditions of the rice. They highlight the importance of storing rice in cool, dry, and oxygen-free environments to maintain quality. They also warn of potential degradation, loss of nutritional value, and the presence of harmful substances like chemical residues from fumigation. Additionally, the old rice may have been exposed to toxins produced by fungi, which can be hazardous to health. There is also a risk of the rice containing substances like phosphorus-oxyacids and orthophosphate, which cannot be removed by traditional methods. Experts emphasize the dangers of chemical residues, such as aluminium phosphide, which can produce toxic gases when exposed to water. Consumption of such contaminated rice could lead to serious health issues, including nausea, breathing difficulties, and even death. The call for a review underscores the importance of ensuring the safety and quality of the rice before it is made available for sale to the public. File photo for reference only -- 2024-05-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Nakhon Pathom: Ex-convict shot dead, sparking police manhunt Picture courtesy: Khaosod A man who had recently been released from prison after serving time for drug offenses was found dead in his home in Nakhon Pathom province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327119-nakhon-pathom-ex-convict-shot-dead-sparking-police-manhunt/

A man who had recently been released from prison after serving time for drug offenses was found dead in his home in Nakhon Pathom province. The man, identified as 43-year-old Prasopchok, had been shot multiple times, prompting a manhunt by the police to find the shooter. The incident occurred in the Srakratiam district, and police were alerted to the shooting at the man's residence. Upon arrival, they discovered Prasopchok's body with gunshot wounds in his bedroom. He had been shot four times at close range. The police found a bullet at the scene, but the type of gun used remains unknown. Prasopchok, who lived alone, had only been out of prison for nine months before his death. He had a history of run-ins with the law, having been jailed four times for drug-related crimes. However, after his most recent release, he had been trying to make a fresh start by working on a small farm owned by his family. Neighbors reported hearing gunshots the night before Prasopchok's body was discovered. Police are investigating the case and are urging anyone with information to come forward. The police are treating this case as a serious threat to public safety and are working diligently to locate the perpetrator. They are seeking the cooperation of the community to help solve this tragic crime. Picture courtesy: Khaosod -- 2024-05-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Elderly woman's buffalo herd goes missing in Buriram Picture courtesy: Khaosod An elderly woman from Buriram province is in distress after her entire herd of 10 buffaloes has mysteriously disappeared. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327118-elderly-womans-buffalo-herd-goes-missing-in-buriram/

An elderly woman from Buriram province is in distress after her entire herd of 10 buffaloes has mysteriously disappeared. The woman, aged 72, had planned to sell the buffaloes to pay off a debt to the Bank of Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives. Local highway police received a report from the woman about the missing buffaloes and launched a search operation, but unfortunately, the buffaloes could not be found. The woman, relying on local beliefs, lit incense sticks in hopes of divine assistance in locating her missing animals. The woman explained that her buffaloes, which she usually allowed to roam freely in the rice fields, vanished on May 9 without a trace. With her intended source of income now gone, she faces financial uncertainty and is appealing to the public for help in recovering her herd. If anyone has information about the whereabouts of the missing buffaloes or has seen them, the woman urges them to come forward. She has offered forgiveness to anyone who might have taken the buffaloes if they are returned safely. Picture courtesy: Khaosod -- 2024-05-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Shuts 12 Marine Parks to Tackle Coral Bleaching Crisis Picture courtesy: National News Bureau of Thailand In response to a serious coral bleaching crisis sparked by rising sea temperatures from the El Niño weather phenomenon, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment has taken decisive action. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327117-thailand-shuts-12-marine-parks-to-tackle-coral-bleaching-crisis/

Picture courtesy: National News Bureau of Thailand In response to a serious coral bleaching crisis sparked by rising sea temperatures from the El Niño weather phenomenon, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment has taken decisive action. They've closed down 12 national marine parks, including big names like Mu Koh Chang and Ao Phang Nga, aiming to halt further harm to coral ecosystems that began showing alarming signs of bleaching back in April. This tough measure is set to stay in place until July. Leading the charge in damage assessment are key figures like Natural Resources and Environment Minister Pol. Gen. Patcharawat Wongsuwan and Department of Marine and Coastal Resources Deputy Director-General Chidchanok Sukmongkol. The Gulf of Thailand is bearing the brunt of the bleaching, with a shocking 50% of its coral reefs hit, compared to 20% in the shallower waters of the Andaman Sea. This environmental crisis has sparked widespread concern among marine experts and the public alike, raising urgent questions about the future of marine life in the region. Pol. Gen. Patcharawat stresses that closing these parks is just one part of a larger strategy. It's aimed at giving the reefs a chance to recover from the intense heat stress that's been wreaking havoc on coral health. This closure period also buys time for officials to come up with lasting solutions to this ongoing environmental challenge. -- 2024-05-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Chinese Woman Seriously Hurt as Car Hits Her Motorbike in Patong Picture courtesy: Facebook Phuket Hot News A Chinese woman was left with serious injuries after a car crashed into her motorbike in Patong. The incident occurred on Muean Ngern Road and also involved a construction worker from Myanmar who was hurt. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327116-chinese-woman-seriously-hurt-as-car-hits-her-motorbike-in-patong/

A Chinese woman was left with serious injuries after a car crashed into her motorbike in Patong. The incident occurred on Muean Ngern Road and also involved a construction worker from Myanmar who was hurt. The emergency services were called to the scene after a sedan collided with a construction vehicle and the motorbike. The motorbike sustained significant damage, while the Chinese woman was thrown down a hill from the impact. A Myanmar man working at the site was also injured. The sedan's driver, a Thai woman, suffered minor injuries. All injured individuals were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. Witnesses reported that the sedan appeared to have difficulty slowing down while going downhill, causing it to veer into the opposite lane and hit the motorbike and the construction worker. Picture courtesy: Facebook Phuket Hot News -- 2024-05-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Finance Ministry Moves to Introduce 7% VAT on Inexpensive Imported Items File photo for reference only courtesy: Thai Rath The Finance Ministry is set to present a proposal this week to revise the Revenue Code, imposing a 7% value added tax (VAT) on all imported goods valued under 1,500 baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327114-finance-ministry-moves-to-introduce-7-vat-on-inexpensive-imported-items/

The Finance Ministry is set to present a proposal this week to revise the Revenue Code, imposing a 7% value added tax (VAT) on all imported goods valued under 1,500 baht. This move aims to level the playing field between local suppliers, who are already subject to VAT, and online overseas sellers who have been exempt from this tax. Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat explained that once the cabinet approves the draft, it will undergo review by the Council of State before being officially announced in the Royal Gazette for implementation. Many countries have already begun to tax online purchases of foreign goods, and this adjustment in Thailand will help local businesses compete more fairly. Initially, the Customs Department will be responsible for collecting the 7% VAT and passing it on to the Revenue Department. Future discussions will explore the possibility of involving online platform operators in the collection process. File photo for reference only courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-05-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

PM Srettha Discusses Cannabis Classification Concerns Amid Coalition Tensions Picture courtesy: Daily News Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin addressed growing concerns about the potential reclassification of cannabis during a visit to Kanchanaburi. There are fears of tensions within the coalition government over this issue. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327113-pm-srettha-discusses-cannabis-classification-concerns-amid-coalition-tensions/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin addressed growing concerns about the potential reclassification of cannabis during a visit to Kanchanaburi. There are fears of tensions within the coalition government over this issue. Srettha stated that discussions with Minister of the Interior, Anutin Charnvirakul, had not yet taken place, but emphasized the importance of putting the Thai people first. He noted that further details would be studied by relevant agencies if cannabis were to be classified as a narcotic illegal drug. The Prime Minister acknowledged the need for a thorough review of the situation and confirmed that Minister of Public Health Somsak Thepsuthin would provide more insights in the future. There have been reported tensions within the government on the matter, with Srettha expressing gratitude towards Anutin for supporting the right to protest. He also assured that there would be no internal conflict among the coalition parties. Previously, Srettha had taken a more decisive stance on criminalizing cannabis, but appears to be stepping back to allow for further discussions and considerations based on public opinion. Pro-cannabis activists have voiced their opposition to any plans of recriminalizing cannabis, with warnings of potential protests and legal actions. Meanwhile, a community enterprise marijuana plantation in Nakhon Ratchasima has faced challenges due to the oversaturation of the market following the decriminalization in 2022. The Chairman of the network highlighted difficulties in selling products and called for government support to mitigate losses. The proposal to reclassify cannabis remains a contentious issue, with differing opinions on its potential impact on the market and those involved in the industry. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-05-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Russian Man Held After Disturbance at Pattaya Hotel Picture courtesy: The Pattaya News A Russian man was arrested following a commotion at a hotel in Pattaya. The incident took place on Saturday evening after the man allegedly stole a phone from a local before causing a disturbance at a nearby hotel. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327112-russian-man-held-after-disturbance-at-pattaya-hotel/

A Russian man was arrested following a commotion at a hotel in Pattaya. The incident took place on Saturday evening after the man allegedly stole a phone from a local before causing a disturbance at a nearby hotel. Reportedly under the influence of alcohol and displaying erratic behavior, the man ran into the hotel, where he was not a guest, and barricaded himself in a bathroom. Despite attempts by police to negotiate, the man refused to cooperate and officers were forced to use pepper spray to detain him. The man, believed to be in his 30s, is currently in police custody and is facing charges of disorderly conduct and public nuisance. The motive behind his actions remains unknown. Picture courtesy: The Pattaya News -- 2024-05-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

61 Dead from Heat Stroke in Thailand: Warning Signs and First Aid Advice Picture courtesy: Thai PBS Over the first four months of this year, sixty-one people tragically lost their lives to heat stroke in Thailand, with thirty-three of those fatalities occurring in the north-eastern region. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327111-61-dead-from-heat-stroke-in-thailand-warning-signs-and-first-aid-advice/

Picture courtesy: Thai PBS Over the first four months of this year, sixty-one people tragically lost their lives to heat stroke in Thailand, with thirty-three of those fatalities occurring in the north-eastern region. Dr. Apichart Wachiraphan, deputy director-general of the Disease Control Department, revealed that most victims were elderly but still working, particularly those in farming and manual labor roles, with a higher proportion of males succumbing to the heat. The main risk factors identified for heat stroke deaths include heavy alcohol consumption (62.1%), underlying health conditions (49.2%), and outdoor work (27.6%). Dr. Wachiraphan emphasized key symptoms to watch for, such as high body temperature without sweating, rapid heartbeat, headaches, incoherent speech, or fainting, urging immediate action if these signs are observed. In cases of suspected heat stroke, he advised placing the person in a cool, shaded area, lying them down with legs raised, and applying cold towels or ice packs to help lower body temperature. It's crucial to provide water or electrolyte drinks if the person is conscious and seek urgent medical attention. Furthermore, Dr. Wachiraphan stressed the danger of leaving children or pets in unventilated cars under the scorching sun, where temperatures can quickly become life-threatening. To reduce the risk of heat stroke, he advised avoiding outdoor activities during the hottest hours, especially between 11 am and 3 pm, when the sun's rays are most intense. -- 2024-05-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Police Probe Bangkok Security Guard's Drainage Hideout Picture courtesy: Khaosod A security guard in Bangkok was rescued after spending four days hiding in a drainage pipe, claiming he was fleeing individuals who threatened him. Rescuers pulled him out and rushed him to Petchawet Hospital. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327110-police-probe-bangkok-security-guards-drainage-hideout/

A security guard in Bangkok was rescued after spending four days hiding in a drainage pipe, claiming he was fleeing individuals who threatened him. Rescuers pulled him out and rushed him to Petchawet Hospital. Yosakorn, the security guard, shared his harrowing ordeal with police, recounting how he sought refuge in the drainage system to avoid harm from people allegedly pursuing him. However, his story appeared muddled at times, with lapses in memory and unclear details. Yosakorn claimed he left his home to collect a debt but ended up in a situation where he felt threatened by a group of people and police officers. In a state of panic, he sought refuge in the drainage and remained hidden until his rescue. Authorities, led by Police Colonel Apichai Hualjit and Police Lieutenant Colonel Manoon Homlaor, are investigating the incident. They are reviewing CCTV footage from the area to corroborate Yosakorn's claims and gather more information. The circumstances surrounding Yosakorn's ordeal remain under scrutiny as police work to piece together the events that led to his drastic decision to hide in the drainage. Picture courtesy: Khaosod -- 2024-05-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Remains of Missing Korean Man Discovered in Chon Buri Reservoir Picture courtesy: Siam Rath A disturbing discovery unfolded in Chon Buri as authorities stumbled upon a human body encased in concrete inside a 200-liter barrel at the Map Prachan reservoir in Bang Laung district. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327109-remains-of-missing-korean-man-discovered-in-chon-buri-reservoir/