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File photo for reference only. Thailand's island of Koh Larn, just off Pattaya's coast, is grappling with severe water scarcity due to an ongoing heat wave. Inhabitants and tourists alike struggle with a shortage of clean, drinkable water, as the supply fails to meet burgeoning demand. Kanchanop Sukkee, a Koh Larn resident, detailed how the scarcity has driven the tap water prices high. A ton of water generally costs 150 baht, with a delivery truck carrying 2 tons costing 300 baht. However, due to the current heat wave, prices have soared to 350-400 baht round per delivery. In extreme situations like now, prices have rocketed to over 1,000-1,200 baht per round. This spike in water prices is burdensome for the local inhabitants and businesses. The community is urging the responsible authorities to mitigate the water crisis, preferably by enhancing water production and improving the distribution network. -- 2024-05-01 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Air Force Pursues 3 Billion Baht Compensation from AOT Over Golf Course Usage File photo courtesy of ThaiPBS The Royal Thai Air Force is demanding compensation of 3 billion baht from Airports of Thailand (AOT) for proposed use of Kantarat Golf Course, located between two main airport runways, to expand Don Mueang International Airport. The information was communicated by Jirayu Huangsap, the Defence Ministry spokesperson. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326283-air-force-pursues-3-billion-baht-compensation-from-aot-over-golf-course-usage/

The Royal Thai Air Force is demanding compensation of 3 billion baht from Airports of Thailand (AOT) for proposed use of Kantarat Golf Course, located between two main airport runways, to expand Don Mueang International Airport. The information was communicated by Jirayu Huangsap, the Defence Ministry spokesperson. A House committee invited representatives of AOT, the Air Force, and Thailand's aviation authorities to discuss the takeover of the golf course land at Don Mueang. Jirayu, as chairman of the House committee, stated that airport safety would be enhanced without the golf course. AOT president, Kirati Kitmanawat, emphasized the takeover necessity to uphold aviation safety. Instances of golfers driving across taxiways despite warnings have been noted. However, Air Vice Marshal Thanachai Arkartwattana, representing the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF), maintained that the golf course met aviation safety standards and that the RTAF had been strict in upholding airport safety. Valuing the golf course at about 100 million baht per year, Thanachai stated that if AOT intended to use it for 30 years, a compensation of roughly 3 billion baht was due to the RTAF. Jirayu confirmed that a report on the issue would be compiled for government consideration. File photo courtesy of ThaiPBS -- 2024-05-01 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thanathorn Continues Senate Candidate Search despite EC Warnings Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit. File photo courtesy of Wikipedia Progressive Group's Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit has declared he will maintain his campaign to encourage public participation in the upcoming senatorial elections, despite warnings from the Election Commission (EC) that his actions are unlawful. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326282-thanathorn-continues-senate-candidate-search-despite-ec-warnings/

Progressive Group's Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit has declared he will maintain his campaign to encourage public participation in the upcoming senatorial elections, despite warnings from the Election Commission (EC) that his actions are unlawful. The ex-leader of the defunct Future Forward party said the campaign is designed to highlight the importance of electing 200 new senators, replacing the current junta-appointed Senate whose tenure ends on May 10. Thanathorn noted an encouraging response from the public with more people showing interest in running as independent candidates. Despite allegations of having a hidden agenda for the Senate election, Thanathorn rejected the claims. He emphasized the campaign aims to encourage candidates from all political backgrounds to ensure elected senators focus on the public interest. Thanathorn called on the EC, Constitutional Court, and the National Anti-Corruption Commission to remain unbiased. Moreover, rather than implying his group is influencing the Senate election, he encouraged the EC to endorse his campaign, as it emphasized the importance of the election. The EC has cautioned it may shut down the iLaw website that provides free space for potential senatorial candidates on social media. Thanathorn expressed concern about this, questioning why the EC seeks to prevent public access to information on candidates. Under the EC's design, an unprecedented senatorial electoral system permits only candidates to vote for senators. This process consists of three voting rounds: district, provincial, and national. Candidates are required to belong to one of 20 specified professional groups; political party representatives are not eligible to apply. Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit. File photo courtesy of Wikipedia -- 2024-05-01 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Baht Slides: Economic Impacts for Thailand File photo for reference only. Thailand's currency, the baht, has been depreciating significantly, sparking discussions about its future. It reached a six-month low, dropping below 37 to the US dollar. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326281-baht-slides-economic-impacts-for-thailand/

Thailand's currency, the baht, has been depreciating significantly, sparking discussions about its future. It reached a six-month low, dropping below 37 to the US dollar. Among other Asian currencies struggling, the Japanese yen reported the highest drop of 10.5% against the dollar this year, with the baht following closely with a decrease of 7-8%. The Bank of Thailand has not yet intervened with measures to strengthen the baht. Piti Disyatat, the deputy governor, mentioned the central bank is keenly observing the currency's movement, pointing out concerns about the possibility of market disruption or a liquidity crunch. This depreciation is part of a regional trend driven by fears that the US Federal Reserve may maintain high interest rates longer than initially speculated. The relatively higher US interest rate has resulted in a stronger dollar, and consequently, capital outflows from Thai stock and bond markets. The ongoing warm weather could also potentially impact Thailand's current account flows by affecting tourism. However, Piti remains optimistic about a resurgence in tourism, believing the weaker baht will boost exports and bolster the currency's value. Piyasak Manason, a senior economist at InnovestX Securities Co, agrees with Piti's optimism about the potential boost to exports. Nonetheless, the future value of the baht largely depends on Thailand's economic performance. Faster economic growth could drive capital inflows, strengthening the currency. But hurdles such as delayed budget allocation may hamper this process. Rating agencies like S&P Global Ratings and Fitch Ratings are closely watching the country's rising government debt. Any downgrades in Thailand’s credit rating could adversely affect the baht's value. TOP: File photo for reference only. -- 2024-05-01 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai airports to expand for tourism boost File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Wikipedia Thailand's Airports of Thailand (AOT) Public Company Limited is investing $4.8 billion in significant expansions at major airports Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang. This move is to prepare for a predicted increase in tourism as the global Coronavirus pandemic subsides. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326279-thai-airports-to-expand-for-tourism-boost/

Thailand's Airports of Thailand (AOT) Public Company Limited is investing $4.8 billion in significant expansions at major airports Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang. This move is to prepare for a predicted increase in tourism as the global Coronavirus pandemic subsides. Suvarnabhumi Airport in Samut Prakan province will experience vast growth with the addition of two runways and a terminal, plus extending the existing terminal. This will increase its capacity to handle 135 million passengers annually, from the current 60 million. The estimated cost of this project is $3.7 billion. Bangkok's Don Mueang International Airport, used mainly by regional and budget airlines, will also undergo development, including a new terminal and building renovations. This expansion, projected to cost about $1.1 billion, will lift the airport capacity from 30 million to 50 million passengers per year by 2030. AOT will mainly use its revenue for these projects, and seek bank loans only if required. The company displays future fiscal health, expected to more than double its net income to over $600 million in the financial year ending late September. Additionally, AOT is considering bidding on the construction of two more proposed airports, each costing about $2 billion. These airports are planned for tourist areas Chiang Mai and the Andamans, near resort island Phuket. AOT's expansion strategy is part of the Thai Prime Minister's plan to enhance tourism, contributing 12% of the country's GDP. However, AOT faces competition from regional airports such as Singapore's Changi. AOT has therefore implemented operational improvements at its airports, such as reducing check-in waiting times and installing automated immigration gates. AOT aims to welcome between 35 to 40 million foreign tourists this year, nearly matching the pre-pandemic annual record of 40 million visitors. The government's tourism goals include 80 million tourists by 2027 and promotion of event-based tourism for higher revenue. File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Wikipedia -- 2024-05-01 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Tourism Seeks Boost Following Cabinet Reshuffle File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Wikipedia Following a recent cabinet reshuffle, Thailand's tourism operators are calling for greater inter-ministerial collaboration to continue the nation's development as a tourism and aviation hub. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326278-thailand-tourism-seeks-boost-following-cabinet-reshuffle/

Following a recent cabinet reshuffle, Thailand's tourism operators are calling for greater inter-ministerial collaboration to continue the nation's development as a tourism and aviation hub. The reshuffle will see the Culture and Tourism ministers switch roles. Nonetheless, President of the Khao San Road Business Association, Sanga Ruangwattanakul, remains confident that this won't destabilise government if it continues to uphold crucial policies, specifically the 2030 Ignite Thailand vision. Newly appointed tourism minister, Sermsak Pongpanich, though lacking specific tourism experience, is expected to benefit from previous ministerial roles. He is urged to engage tourism experts as consultants and team members. Ruangwattanakul commended outgoing foreign minister, Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara for important policy contributions, such as permanent visa exemption between Thailand and China, and extended visa-free stays for Russian tourists. His successor will need to pursue unfinished initiatives like visa-free entry for Thais in European countries and to promote Thailand as a Southeast Asia tourism hub. To support small and medium-sized tourism operators, Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira is encouraged to collaborate with the Bank of Thailand to address issues like reducing interest rates. The President of the Association of Chon Buri Tourism Federation, Thanet Supornsahasrungsi, reiterated the need for inter-ministerial efforts to bolster the economy, calling for closer work between the transport, tourism, and foreign ministries. He suggested using Pattaya and Chon Buri to increase tourism demand by increasing flights through U-Tapao Airport and incentivising airlines with discounts on landing fees, parking fees and fuel surcharges. While acknowledging the benefits of visa exemption schemes, Supornsahasrungsi stressed the necessity of improved tourist safety and easier travel between destinations. He also cited delays on major infrastructure projects like Rama II Road as detrimental to tourism in Hua Hin and Cha-am. TOP: File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Wikipedia -- 2024-05-01 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Foreigner Assaults Phuket Tuk Tuk Driver Over Fare Disagreement Video screenshot Facebook Oiltuktukpatong Saranate The episode of a foreigner physically assaulting a tuk tuk driver in Phuket, identified only as Abdulloh, was captured via dash cam and shared by two Facebook users. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326277-foreigner-assaults-phuket-tuk-tuk-driver-over-fare-disagreement/

The episode of a foreigner physically assaulting a tuk tuk driver in Phuket, identified only as Abdulloh, was captured via dash cam and shared by two Facebook users. As per Abdulloh's father's explanation, the conflict arose over the trip fare from Patong to Karon beach, which was charged at 400 baht. According to the shared video clip, visible on Hod Chang Changwat Phuket and Oiltuktukpatong Saranate Facebook pages, the fare disagreement occurred when the unidentified tourist paid only 100 baht insisting he had given 500 or 1000 baht and demanded the rest as change. The dispute escalated quickly as the tourist slapped and attempted to choke Abdulloh for not returning the alleged overpayment. After reporting the incident to the local police, Abdulloh and his father were instructed to summon the foreigner to the police station. However, when approached at his hotel, the tourist declined the police meeting. Abdulloh's father revealed that while incidents of fare evasion have occurred in the past, the demand for additional money this time was intolerable. He believes that this event raises serious concerns about the treatment of local workers by foreign tourists. Video screenshot: Facebook Oiltuktukpatong Saranate -- 2024-05-01 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Ex-Police Chief's Wife Suspected of Seeking UK Citizenship to Escape Charges Photo courtesy of Sanook.com Nipapan Sukwimon, wife of Pol. Gen. Torsak Sukwimon, the former Thai police chief, is reportedly applying for British nationality. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326276-ex-police-chiefs-wife-suspected-of-seeking-uk-citizenship-to-escape-charges/

Nipapan Sukwimon, wife of Pol. Gen. Torsak Sukwimon, the former Thai police chief, is reportedly applying for British nationality. This move is suspected of being a bid to avoid money-laundering charges in Thailand, according to lawyer Sittra Biabungkerd, who lodged the charges against her and others. Nipapan, also known as Madame Kookkai, is believed to be linked to an estimated 200 million baht in laundered money. She reportedly received monthly cash transfers of between 59,000 to 159,000 baht to her bank account via a network of 'horse accounts'. The funds were allegedly used for various activities including the construction of a tourist resort and merit-making rituals at temples. Authorities are still investigating the origins of the money. Initial suspicions point to illegal online gambling operations and other illicit activities, with the money funneled to relatives and subordinate officers of top-ranking police officials, including Nipapan’s husband and the ousted deputy police chief, Surachate "Big Joke" Hakparn. Nipapan's husband, the former Police Chief, has been suspended from duty amid these allegations. TOP Photo courtesy of Sanook.com -- 2024-05-01 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Wednesday 1 May 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1326275-thailand-live-wednesday-1-may-2024/

Picture Facebook Chonburi News Rick Brown, a 57-year-old American who resides in Pattaya, Thailand, has been praised online for his generous actions towards local children. Known on TikTok as Savvy Rick Brown, he has started giving away helmets to children seen riding motorcycles without them. American Expat in Pattaya Gains Appreciation for Giving Out Free Bike Helmets Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326255-american-expat-in-pattaya-gains-appreciation-for-giving-out-free-bike-helmets/

Big Joke and high-ranking officers are summoned by police File photo Thai Rath The Royal Thai Police (RTP) has announced plans to summon five officers, including Deputy National Police Chief Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn, who is currently on suspension. This follows accusations of serious disciplinary violations relating to the BNK Master gambling website. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326226-big-joke-and-high-ranking-officers-are-summoned-by-police/

The Royal Thai Police (RTP) has announced plans to summon five officers, including Deputy National Police Chief Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn, who is currently on suspension. This follows accusations of serious disciplinary violations relating to the BNK Master gambling website. Deputy National Chief Sarawut Kanpanich revealed the panel took the decision to summon the officers, on May 7. This date complies with the Audit and Monitoring Committees of Police Administration Regulations on Probe and Investigation which mandates such a summons be acknowledged 15 days after constituting the panel. Big Joke, who faces claims of a personal conflict with a member of the 14-panel team, cleared his office at the RTP and returned his government-issued car a day after his suspension. Meanwhile, he expressed intentions to contest the senatorial election, pledging to keep serving the public's interest. Previously, acting national police chief Pol. Gen. Kitrat Panphet signed a suspension order against Deputy Chief Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn and four others over alleged links with an online gambling network. This action occurred after further accusations of money-laundering activities tied to the same gambling network. Pol. Gen. Kitrat Panphet assumed the role of acting national police chief last month following reassignments by Prime Minister Srettha, which placed the previous chief and Big Joke in inactive posts during an investigation into allegations against them. File photo Thai Rath -- 2024-04-30 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Police Arrest Woman for Alleged Accommodation Scam of 19,000 Baht File photo for reference only. A young woman was apprehended by Bangkok's Metropolitan Police for an alleged accommodation booking scam, causing losses of approximately 19,000 baht. Despite the 20-year-old, Kanyawee Prompichai, denying the charges, the police affirm that the evidence against her is strong. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326224-police-arrest-woman-for-alleged-accommodation-scam-of-19000-baht/

A young woman was apprehended by Bangkok's Metropolitan Police for an alleged accommodation booking scam, causing losses of approximately 19,000 baht. Despite the 20-year-old, Kanyawee Prompichai, denying the charges, the police affirm that the evidence against her is strong. The Special Branch Division, led by Police Lieutenant General Theeradech Thamsutee, arrested Kanyawee following two arrest warrants issued by the Min Buri Criminal Court. Charges include "fraud against the public" and "inputting false information into computer systems." Kanyawee is alleged to have created fake booking pages on Facebook, MYSkhaoyai and Wala Hua Hin Villa, leading to a victim transferring money for rooms at Khao Yai and Hua Hin. The victim later discovered the bookings were bogus at the hotels. Evidence presented by the victim led the investigation to uncover further fraudulent activities by Kanyawee, with additional victims reporting losses. After her arrest, Kanyawee was detained for further legal proceedings at Kannayao Police Station. The quick actions by the police displayed their commitment to maintaining the law and public safety regarding online scams. The public is advised to remain cautious when making online transactions and verify the legitimacy of platforms before transferring payment. TOP File photo for reference only. -- 2024-04-30 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Former SET Chairman Pichai Chunhavajira Takes on Thai Finance Minister Role Former chairman of the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET), Pichai Chunhavajira, has been appointed as the country's new Finance Minister. This move has been welcomed by stock market analysts who expect Pichai to actively manage Thailand's capital market and guide economic stimulus initiatives. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326222-former-set-chairman-pichai-chunhavajira-takes-on-thai-finance-minister-role/

Former chairman of the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET), Pichai Chunhavajira, has been appointed as the country's new Finance Minister. This move has been welcomed by stock market analysts who expect Pichai to actively manage Thailand's capital market and guide economic stimulus initiatives. Notably, the government has just approved the 2024 fiscal budget, ready for allocation. According to Rakpong Chaisuparakul, Senior Vice-President at KGI Securities (Thailand), Pichai is expected to significantly contribute to Thailand’s digital wallet stimulus scheme and financial market regulation. Surely, Pichai’s rich financial background will come handy in his new role. The 76-year-old served on the Bank of Thailand board from 2014 to 2017 and recently stepped down as SET chairman. His career highlights also include being an adviser to the former Prime Minister, Srettha Thavisin. Asia Plus Securities (ASPS) sees Pichai's appointment as an indication of the government's commitment to drive the 10,000-baht digital wallet scheme. This move, along with efficient disbursement of the 2024 budget, is expected to stimulate state spending, thus enhancing Thailand's GDP growth in the second half of the year. Thailand's king approved the 2024 budget bill worth 3.48 trillion baht on April 26, that includes an investment budget of 700 billion baht for the remaining fiscal year. ASPS expects the government to expedite disbursement totalling 1.6 trillion baht in the 2024-2025 fiscal period. This government reshuffle could benefit several domestic-play stocks, especially in commerce and construction sectors, such as Berli Jucker (BJC), CP All (CPALL), Central Retail Corp (CRC), Home Product Centre (HMPRO), Ch Karnchang (CK), Sino Thai Engineering and Construction (SETC), Siam Cement (SCC), Siam City Cement (SCCC) and TIPCO Asphalt (TASCO). -- 2024-04-30 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Chiang Mai Struggles with Poor Air Quality from Wildfires Chiang Mai is facing severe air quality issues due to increased wildfires, resulting in heavy smog covering the city over the past month. It now ranks among the cities with the world's poorest air quality. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326220-chiang-mai-struggles-with-poor-air-quality-from-wildfires/

Chiang Mai is facing severe air quality issues due to increased wildfires, resulting in heavy smog covering the city over the past month. It now ranks among the cities with the world's poorest air quality. The Wildfire and Pollution Control Command Centre reported 52 new hotspots, adding to the 166 previously detected by the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Agency, totalling 218 hotspots. Six air monitoring stations in the province have recorded unhealthy levels of PM2.5 - ultra-fine particulate matter. Stations in Mueang, Chiang Dao, Hot, and Mae Chaem districts revealed PM2.5 levels varying between 53.3 to 102.7 micrograms per cubic meter, exceeding the safe threshold of 37.5. IQAir.com stated that Chiang Mai's air quality index reached 161 and its PM2.5 level hit 74.1 micrograms per cubic meter at 10 am yesterday, putting the city as the world's fourth most polluted city. From April 1 to 29, Chiang Mai has consistently made the list of the world's most polluted cities. Chiang Mai's governor, Nirat Phongsitthithawon reassured the community that efforts are being made to control the wildfires, urging agencies to put anti-pollution measures in place due to the threat to public health and local tourism. As of April 14, only three provinces in northern and northeastern Thailand have reported high levels of PM2.5 pollution while most regions have good air quality. TOP: File photo -- 2024-04-30 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe