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UPDATE: Acting police chief suspends Big Joke over gambling links by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Stay in Thailand The acting national police chief has signed a suspension order for Deputy Chief Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn and four other subordinates over their alleged involvement with an online gambling network, as per a source close to the matter. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325319-deputy-national-police-chief-suspended/?do=findComment&comment=18854011

Acting police chief suspends Big Joke over gambling links by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Stay in Thailand The acting national police chief has signed a suspension order for Deputy Chief Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn and four other subordinates over their alleged involvement with an online gambling network, as per a source close to the matter. The directive, which was enforced immediately yesterday, April 18, was signed by Pol. Gen. Kitrat Panphet. In addition to Big Joke, the order also targeted Pol. Col. Kittichai Sangkhathaworn, Deputy Police Commander of Songkhla province; Pol. Lt. Col. Krit Pariyaket, Deputy Chief of the Phra Samut Chedi Police Station in Samut Prakan; and traffic patrol policemen Pol. Sgt. Natthawut Wadwaew and Pol. Sgt. Natthanan Chuchak. The five are believed to be complicit in money-laundering activities tied to the BNK Master gambling network. The order was issued on the back of a disciplinary investigation, and courts have already approved arrest warrants for the suspected individuals, according to the source. The decision was discussed by Pol. Gen. Kitrat with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin at the Government House following a Cabinet meeting yesterday morning. The affected individuals hold the right to challenge the order. On March 20, the prime minister reassigned Big Joke and National Police Chief Torsak Sukvimol to inactive posts, installing Pol. Gen. Kitrat as the acting chief in their stead. The two senior officers, who were at the centre of the controversy, had been embroiled in a public feud over alleged associations with unlawful gambling networks. On April 2, Big Joke voluntarily presented himself to the police to respond to money-laundering charges levelled against him, mere hours after investigators secured an arrest warrant. He was later granted bail. A recent revelation from a committee set up by the prime minister to probe the scandal indicated that there were valid grounds for the claim that Big Joke was implicated in money laundering. Pol. Gen. Kitrat Panphet assumed the role of acting national police chief last month when Prime Minister Srettha reassigned Pol. Gen. Torsak Sukvimol, the previous chief, and Big Joke to inactive posts in the PM’s Office pending a thorough investigation into allegations against both men, reported Bangkok Post. Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai government’s triple referendum approach under scrutiny by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The Cabinet will acknowledge the government’s stance on a triple referendum as a part of the process to amend the entire charter next week, according to Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. Phumtham asserted that despite being a protracted process, three referenda would ensure a judicious approach. https://aseannow.com/topic/1325351-thai-government’s-triple-referendum-approach-under-scrutiny/Full story:

The Cabinet will acknowledge the government’s stance on a triple referendum as a part of the process to amend the entire charter next week, according to Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. Phumtham asserted that despite being a protracted process, three referenda would ensure a judicious approach. However, critics have raised concerns that organising the triple referendum, each costing approximately 3 billion baht, would be excessively expensive, time-consuming and present a barrier. Phumtham, also the chair of a panel studying the necessity of a referendum to amend the charter, revealed that the panel is finalising its work and will present it to the Cabinet the following week. The Cabinet will be made aware of the panel’s recommendation for three referenda. “That stance remains unchanged. We must be thorough about it.” The initial referendum will seek voter’s opinions on the proposal to draft a new charter. If the majority agree, Section 256 will be amended to make way for a new charter to be drafted. Once the new charter is ready, it will be presented in another referendum for voters to decide whether it should be implemented. The Phumtham-led panel maintained its stance even after the Constitutional Court rejected a petition by Parliament earlier this week. The petition sought a ruling on whether the charter could be amended before a referendum and the total number of referenda to be held. It also sought a ruling on whether a proposed charter amendment motion could be deliberated on Parliament’s agenda. According to the judges, they had already ruled on the matter, stating that the Parliament president can place the matter on the agenda. The court had previously asserted that a charter rewrite could not proceed without a prior referendum. It also stated that changing critical areas of the charter or amending it in its entirety, requires a prior favourable referendum vote. However, the ruling did not specify the exact number of referenda needed. Next steps Phumtham denied allegations that the government was procrastinating. He insisted that the panel wanted to proceed with a degree of certainty that further disruptions would not occur during the rewriting process. “We’re opting for the safest option. This is so we don’t find ourselves having to go back to square one.” Phumtham acknowledged that the three-referendum option may not appease everyone but asserted that it is favourable to democracy. Concurrently, Chusak Sirinil, a legal expert and deputy leader of the ruling Pheu Thai Party, noted the responsibility now lies with House Speaker Wan Muhamad Noor Matha, following the court’s rejection on Wednesday, reported Bangkok Post. It is up to Wan Noor to decide the next steps for rewriting the charter. Parliament had previously declined to put the issue on its agenda, which is a requisite to commence the amendment process. by Mitch Connor TOP Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

MFP bill to penalise officials ignoring Parliament summons by Bob Scott Picture of Rangsiman Rome (centre) with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon (left) The Move Forward Party (MFP) has tabled a bill in the Parliament penalising ministers and state officials who disregard summons to testify before House committees. The bill, proposed by Rangsiman Rome, an MFP list-MP and the head of a House committee on state security, was formally presented to Parliament yesterday, April 18. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325350-mfp-bill-to-penalise-officials-ignoring-parliament-summons/

The Move Forward Party (MFP) has tabled a bill in the Parliament penalising ministers and state officials who disregard summons to testify before House committees. The bill, proposed by Rangsiman Rome, an MFP list-MP and the head of a House committee on state security, was formally presented to Parliament yesterday, April 18. Under the proposed legislation, MPs who ignore their summons could be subject to an ethics investigation, while state officials could face disciplinary proceedings. However, the bill also provides protections for individuals called to testify, stating that committee members may face penalties if they are found to use summonses maliciously to intimidate others. Rangsiman Rome explained that the proposed law aims to enhance the effectiveness of House committees. He highlighted the difficulties his committee often encounters in summoning certain agencies or ministers to address their enquiries. “We frequently summon a particular individual or minister, only to have them delegate their responsibility to others.” Rome said that it often leads to sessions that are not just a waste of time and resources, but also fail to serve the best interests of the people. The bill’s introduction follows discussions between Rome, House Speaker Wan Muhamad Noor Matha, and members of the 35 House committees who are grappling with similar issues. reported Bangkok Post. In related politics news, a wave of rumours surrounding a potential Cabinet reshuffle in Thailand was quashed last week by the United Thai Nation (UTN) Party. The party’s Deputy Leader and list MP, Wittaya Kaewparadai, stated that despite talks circulating for over a month, no indications of an imminent reshuffle have been communicated by the prime minister. Wittaya, referring to UTN leader Pirapan Salirathavibhaga, pointed out that any plans to alter the Cabinet line-up would be shared with the leaders of the coalition parties by the prime minister. The premier’s intentions behind a reshuffle would also be discussed, allowing partners to make appropriate decisions. by Bob Scott Picture of Rangsiman Rome (centre) with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon (left) Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

RTP seize 7.9 million baht assets from hybid-scam network by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Pattaya News In a sweeping operation dubbed “The Purge,” Royal Thai Police (RTP) officers from Mueang Thong Thani, in collaboration with relevant agencies, made significant strides in the battle against transnational crime on April 17. RTP officers seized assets worth over 250 million baht (US$7.9 million) from hybid-scam networks, a substantial blow to these criminal operations. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325348-rtp-seize-79-million-baht-assets-from-hybid-scam-network/

In a sweeping operation dubbed “The Purge,” Royal Thai Police (RTP) officers from Mueang Thong Thani, in collaboration with relevant agencies, made significant strides in the battle against transnational crime on April 17. RTP officers seized assets worth over 250 million baht (US$7.9 million) from hybid-scam networks, a substantial blow to these criminal operations. The hybid-scam network involved tricking unsuspecting victims through social media platforms, persuading them to invest in cryptocurrency trading. The catch was that the victims had to transfer their money into so-called mule accounts to convert it into digital currency for trading on bogus platforms, said one of the officers involved in the operation. “The victims were not aware that they were being duped. The platforms were fake, and their investments were simply siphoned off by the criminals.” As investigations unfolded, the cyber police identified a prime suspect: Shaoxian Su, a Chinese national, and his accomplices. They also discovered links to Thai nationals who acted as nominees, investing in various assets, including real estate, under Thai identities. This discovery led the police to further intensify their operations. Under the banner Trust No One, they searched 72 locations across Thailand, apprehending three Chinese nationals. Luxury condominiums, sports cars, cash, and other assets totalling over 1.9 billion baht (US$60 million) were seized from these locations, said the officer. “Upon investigation, we found financial activities tied to Singaporean individuals also involved with the Hybid-Scam network.” The Purge operation was a resounding success, with over 26 individuals implicated in the scam. The RTP secured arrest and search warrants to bring these individuals to justice, reported Pattaya News. Furthermore, the authorities reported that the hybid-scam network was also connected to transactional crimes in call scams and online gambling networks. These networks, it was found, had a financial turnover of 30 billion baht (US$947 million) per year. This operation marks a significant victory in the fight against transnational crime. by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Pattaya News Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Songkran festival sees surge in road accidents across Thailand by Top Top Thailand is grappling with a surge in road accidents, with an alarming tally of 2,044 mishaps leading to 2,060 injuries and a tragic loss of 287 lives. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325346-songkran-festival-sees-surge-in-road-accidents-across-thailand/

Thailand is grappling with a surge in road accidents, with an alarming tally of 2,044 mishaps leading to 2,060 injuries and a tragic loss of 287 lives. The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) released these figures as part of their Seven Days of Road Safety Campaign, which covered the Songkran festival period from April 11 to April 17. The northern province of Chiang Rai topped the list for the highest number of fatalities and accidents, recording 17 deaths and 82 accidents respectively. The province of Phrae, unfortunately, saw the most injuries with a total of 80 individuals affected. The Seven Days of Road Safety Campaign is an annual initiative by the DDPM to promote safer road practices, particularly during the Songkran festival, a time when road accidents typically spike due to increased travel and festivities. The campaign’s objective is not only to raise awareness but also to enforce traffic rules more stringently to ensure the safety of all road users, said a DDPM spokesperson. “Despite our best efforts, the number of accidents, injuries, and deaths remains high. We urge everyone to observe traffic rules, avoid drink driving, and ensure their vehicles are in good condition before hitting the road. The Songkran festival, also known as the Thai New Year, is a time of celebration for the Thai people. It is often marked with water fights, visits to temples, and spending time with family. However, the festival period also sees a significant increase in road traffic as people travel across the country to their hometowns. The DDPM has been proactive in trying to reduce the number of road accidents during this period. Their initiatives include setting up road safety checkpoints, increasing patrols, and running public awareness campaigns on the dangers of drink driving and speeding. Looking at the statistics, Chiang Rai recorded the most accidents and fatalities, highlighting a need for further intervention in this region. Phrae, with the highest number of injuries, also requires attention, said the DDPM spokesperson. “We need everyone’s cooperation to make our roads safer. We are doing our best, but it is also up to each individual to take responsibility for their actions on the road.” The statistics are a stark reminder of the dangers that can come with increased road traffic during festive periods. by Top Top Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Three year old girl survives Ferris wheel plunge in Bangkok Photo of Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Metro UK In a heart-stopping moment captured on CCTV, a three year old Thai girl found herself dangling from a Ferris wheel gondola after a daring grab for a metal bar sent her on a terrifying ride at Liab Duan Market in Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325345-three-year-old-girl-survives-ferris-wheel-plunge-in-bangkok/

In a heart-stopping moment captured on CCTV, a three year old Thai girl found herself dangling from a Ferris wheel gondola after a daring grab for a metal bar sent her on a terrifying ride at Liab Duan Market in Bangkok. With astonishing strength, little Kanchaya Phoyen clung on for dear life as the wheel ascended, eventually dropping a stomach-churning 25 feet to the ground below. Miraculously, she landed on one of the gondola roofs, escaping what could have been a tragic fate. Paramedic Paitoon Saithong, who rushed Kanchaya to the hospital, described her survival as nothing short of a miracle. “The Ferris wheel is quite high. She is very, lucky to survive such a fall.” Paitoon noted that although Kanchaya suffered cuts and blood loss, her injuries were not severe, and she remained conscious throughout. Despite the harrowing ordeal, no action has been taken against the fairground owners, and Kanchaya’s parents have chosen not to file a complaint, reported Metro UK. However, authorities have issued a stern warning to parents, urging them to remain vigilant around amusement rides. Police Colonel Prapas Kaewcheed emphasised the importance of parental supervision. “I hope this serves as a lesson to parents to always keep a close eye on their children.” In related news, a female student tragically fell to her death from the fifth floor of a condominium early last Sunday. The incident occurred in the Mueang Ake community in Pathum Thani, where police and rescue services were swiftly summoned to the scene. Upon arrival at the eight-story condominium complex, the emergency personnel discovered the victim, identified as a 27 year old woman, lying on her back on the ground-level parking deck. In other news, a man remains unaccounted for after plunging from the Krung Thon Bridge into the Chao Phraya River, sparking an urgent search operation. At 1.22pm yesterday, April 17, authorities were alerted to the incident, prompting rescue teams to rush to the site. Photo of Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Metro UK Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

UPDATE: Jomtien Beach’s Songkran splash sees a dip in tourists by Bob Scott Jomtien Beach in Chon Buri experienced a noticeable dip in the usual influx of visitors during the recent Songkran celebration. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325324-one-way-traffic-takes-toll-on-tourism-at-jomtien-beach/?do=findComment&comment=18853749

Jomtien Beach’s Songkran splash sees a dip in tourists by Bob Scott Jomtien Beach in Chon Buri experienced a noticeable dip in the usual influx of visitors during the recent Songkran celebration. The local businesses situated in the area attribute this decline to the newly introduced one-way traffic system, which they believe has puzzled and deterred potential tourists. Poolsawat Singhsawasdi, a vendor operating on the beachfront, expressed her concerns to the local press. The 55 year old revealed that the numbers of tourists from April 12 to April 16 were average, markedly missing the usual surge of crowds that flock to the area during the typical Songkran holiday period. Poolsawat proposed that this downturn in tourism might be a consequence of the recent alterations to Pattaya’s traffic regulations, including the adoption of a one-way system on Pattaya Beach Road. She suggested that several tourists have struggled to adapt to this new system, resulting in frustration and complaints about the need to backtrack during their journeys. Despite the adverse impact of the traffic system on tourism, Poolsawat mentioned that her earnings from renting out beach umbrellas have remained stable. However, this income is only sufficient for her to scrape by. She anticipates that tourism in Jomtien Beach will continue to be lacklustre during the forthcoming Wanlai festival today, April 19. She reasoned that most individuals prefer to meander through the streets participating in water play, rather than lounging on beach benches, reported Pattaya News. “The new traffic system may have confused some tourists and could have led to fewer visitors. Many have complained about having to drive back and forth due to the one-way system.” In related news, a major makeover is unfolding along the 2.7-kilometre coastline of Pattaya Beach. Spearheaded by Deputy Mayor Manoch Nongyai the project is set to redefine the city’s landscape and will be completed ahead of the original deadline. Funded by a 166 million baht budget, this facelift aims to boost the city’s image and enhance amenities for residents and tourists alike. Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Shinawatra saga: Yingluck’s comeback fuels legal limelight by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of The Nation Former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra’s potential return from exile sparks intrigue over her legal fate, mirroring her brother Thaksin’s tumultuous history, claims the Shinawatras’ lawyer. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325344-shinawatra-saga-yingluck’s-comeback-fuels-legal-limelight/

Former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra’s potential return from exile sparks intrigue over her legal fate, mirroring her brother Thaksin’s tumultuous history, claims the Shinawatras’ lawyer. Pichit Chuenban, a figure linked to Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s Cabinet due to his close allegiance to the Shinawatras, responded to speculation about Yingluck’s comeback. “I really don’t know. I’m only taking care of her case.” Yingluck’s brother, ex-PM Thaksin, hinted at her possible return during a recent Songkran visit to Chiang Mai, expressing a desire to reunite for festivities. Pichit affirmed that Yingluck must adhere to legal protocols upon return, akin to her brother’s journey. However, he vehemently denied any preferential treatment towards Thaksin, stressing his compliance with due legal process. The possibility of a clandestine arrangement for Thaksin’s return last August, following a pardon reducing his sentence, ignited speculation. Recently granted parole on health grounds, Thaksin’s situation remains a topic of scrutiny. Pichit refuted claims of personal conversations with Yingluck regarding her return, having only notified her of acquittal earlier this year. Yingluck, ousted by a military coup like her brother, fled before sentencing linked to a rice-pledging scheme. Despite past legal entanglements, Yingluck saw two recent Supreme Court acquittals: one in December for malfeasance related to a security council chief’s transfer, and another in March for alleged collusion in a PR campaign contract. Pichit’s controversial past, including a brief jail stint for contempt of court, adds another layer to the saga. Initially considered for a government role, he faced public backlash and withdrawal from consideration, reported The Nation. Amidst rumours of ministerial posts in Srettha’s reshuffle, Pichit maintains ignorance. “I know nothing. I’m focused on my work.” ORIGINAL STORY: Former Thai PM Yingluck cleared in major corruption case The Supreme Court’s Criminal Case Division for Holders of Political Positions yesterday delivered a resounding verdict, absolving Yingluck Shinawatra and five co-defendants of malfeasance and corruption allegations. The charges stemmed from the allocation of a hefty 240-million-baht campaign budget aimed at promoting the Yingluck government’s ambitious 2-trillion-baht infrastructure projects. Commenting on the verdict, Thanaporn Sriyakul, director of the Political and Public Policy Analysis Institute, pointed out potential legal avenues that could pave the way for Yingluck’s return. He highlighted recent regulations concerning parole and inmate detention outside prison, suggesting that these factors might influence Yingluck’s decision. Thanaporn alluded to the infamous rice-pledging case that shadows Yingluck’s legacy. “It’s plausible that Yingluck will follow a similar path as Thaksin but her return hinges on various factors, including her willingness to face punishment and the possibility of a royal pardon.” The court’s unanimous decision, voting 9-0 in favour of acquittal, dealt a blow to the National Anti-Corruption Commission’s accusations against Yingluck and her co-defendants. Notably, the court also rescinded the arrest warrant previously issued for Yingluck in connection with this case. The crux of the legal dispute revolved around allegations of impropriety in awarding contracts for the Roadshow to Thailand’s Future Thailand 2020 campaign. The prosecution argued that Yingluck and her associates bypassed public tenders, favouring select companies for the project. However, the court found no evidence of bias or wrongdoing, asserting that the budget allocation adhered to procurement regulations, reported Bangkok Post. Moreover, the court underscored the approval of Yingluck’s government projects by relevant authorities at the time, dismissing claims of misappropriation or wasteful expenditure. This latest acquittal adds to Yingluck’s legal victories, including her exoneration in a 2011 controversy over a National Security Council appointment. Nevertheless, the spectre of the rice-pledging scandal still looms large over Yingluck’s legacy. Fleeing in 2017 following a conviction in the rice-pledging programme, Yingluck remains a fugitive with an active arrest warrant. by Mitch Connor Top Photo courtesy of The Nation Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Xi Jinping’s bullet train gift sparks China-Thailand railway reality by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of CNBC A replica of China’s Fuxing bullet train, bedecked in Thailand’s national colours and gifted during the 29th APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Bangkok in November 2022, now finds itself at the epicentre of a transformative railway saga between China and Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325343-xi-jinping’s-bullet-train-gift-sparks-china-thailand-railway-reality/

A replica of China’s Fuxing bullet train, bedecked in Thailand’s national colours and gifted during the 29th APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Bangkok in November 2022, now finds itself at the epicentre of a transformative railway saga between China and Thailand. As the wheels of progress turn, the construction of the China-Thailand Railway, a flagship venture under the Belt and Road cooperation framework, gains pace, promising to redefine Southeast Asia’s transportation landscape with cutting-edge rail technology. Last April marked a pivotal moment as a freight train laden with durians embarked on a historic journey, traversing Thailand, Laos, and China, culminating in Guangdong province. Clocking a mere five days, this odyssey highlighted the railway’s efficiency, outstripping traditional maritime routes by at least a week. Upon completion, the China-Thailand Railway will seamlessly merge with the China-Laos Railway, weaving a tapestry of connectivity across the Indochina Peninsula, and bolstering infrastructure ties throughout Southeast Asia. Pitiwat Angsuviriya, a mechanical engineering protégé hailing from Khon Kaen University, reflects on President Xi’s visit, resonating with the spirit of international cooperation amidst post-pandemic uncertainties. “President Xi’s visit to Thailand remains a beacon of hope, symbolising unity amidst global challenges.” The aftermath of Xi’s visit ushered in a new era of collaboration, with China resuming group tour services, facilitating Pitiwat’s enrolment in a transformative railway training programme. Armed with newfound expertise, Pitiwat envisions spearheading Thailand’s railway renaissance, underscoring the pivotal role of high-speed rail in Southeast Asia’s economic ascendancy. Xi’s inaugural visit to Thailand left an indelible mark on locals, with messages of camaraderie emblazoned across Bangkok’s skyline, reinforcing the enduring bond between China and Thailand. In the realm of commerce, China remains Thailand’s largest trading partner, with Thai durian, a prized commodity, finding a voracious market in China, exemplifying the fruits of robust transportation infrastructure, reported The Nation. Wichai Kinchong Choi, a banking luminary, extols the virtues of China’s investment, fuelling Thailand’s economic renaissance. “China’s steadfast commitment to openness and cooperation is steering Southeast Asia towards a brighter future.” Amidst calls for green development, China’s support for Thailand’s EV ambitions underscores a shared commitment to sustainability. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of CNBC Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Can a radical proposal save Phuket’s tourism crisis? by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod English In a bid for autonomy, Phuket Mayor Saroj Angkanapilas is leading a daring move to transform the city into a special administrative organisation to save it from a tourism crisis. The current system, he claims, is holding back progress, leaving the island paradise struggling to keep pace with global rivals. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325342-can-a-radical-proposal-save-phuket’s-tourism-crisis/

In a bid for autonomy, Phuket Mayor Saroj Angkanapilas is leading a daring move to transform the city into a special administrative organisation to save it from a tourism crisis. The current system, he claims, is holding back progress, leaving the island paradise struggling to keep pace with global rivals. “Tourist cities in many countries are far ahead in their development, so Phuket will lose its competitive edge if it continues to use the same administrative system.” Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has yet to receive the proposal but indicated willingness to consider it. With over 10 million tourists inundating Phuket annually, the strain on infrastructure is palpable. Current funds, based on registered residents, fall woefully short of meeting the island’s needs. The proposed Phuket City Administration Act 2018 promises a radical overhaul, envisaging a directly elected mayor and a slew of new laws to tackle pressing issues like waste management and traffic congestion, reported KhaoSod English. If successful, Phuket could emerge as a global contender in the tourism arena. In related news, as the extended Songkran holiday wrapped up on Tuesday, tourists bid farewell to the sun-kissed islands surrounding Pattaya, turning the Bali Hai Pier area into a buzzing hub of activity. Local authorities ramped up services to cater to the influx, ensuring convenience for visitors throughout the holiday period. Officers stationed at the pier witnessed a remarkable influx of tourists from April 12 to 15, with an average of 30,000 Thai visitors and foreign tourists per day seeking leisure and relaxation on the islands. On April 12 alone, 8,102 tourists set sail on island adventures via 42 ferry services. The numbers surged the following day, reaching 16,885 visitors served by 87 ferry trips. In other news, Thailand welcomed over 10 million foreign tourists this year alone, leading to revenue exceeding 500 billion baht, reported the Tourism and Sports Ministry. The data, up to date as of yesterday, shows 10,723,953 foreign visitors have contributed to an income of 518 billion baht. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod English Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand advances its bid for OECD membership to boost economy by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand is forging ahead with its application to become a member of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), a move that is anticipated to significantly enhance the country’s economic growth. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325341-thailand-advances-its-bid-for-oecd-membership-to-boost-economy/

Thailand is forging ahead with its application to become a member of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), a move that is anticipated to significantly enhance the country’s economic growth. The Thai Foreign Affairs Minister, Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara, took a proactive step on Tuesday, April 16, by submitting an official letter of intent to Mathias Cormann, the secretary-general of the OECD, at the organisation’s French headquarters. In a compelling speech, Minister Parnpree articulated Thailand’s readiness and resolute commitment to fast-track its OECD membership. He highlighted that Thailand aligns with the core values and objectives of the OECD, encompassing democracy, the rule of law, human rights, a free-market economy, sustainability, inclusivity, and a dedicated green transition. Minister Parnpree brought attention to Thailand’s four-decade-long involvement with the OECD and its ambitious goal of achieving the status of an advanced economy by 2037. The desire for OECD membership was met with support from member nations, who encouraged an expedited process for Thailand’s accession. The OECD, a pivotal player in international governance, influences crucial sectors such as economy, trade, investment, anti-corruption measures, education, innovation, the environment, and climate change. With 38 member countries, the organization aims to assist in formulating effective public policies under the mission statement “Better policies for better lives.” Reflecting on his address, Minister Parnpree noted that Thailand is the sole country within ASEAN that has maintained close relations with the OECD for a remarkable 42 years. This affiliation has helped to elevate Thailand’s business standards, governance, trade, environmental considerations, competitiveness, and green economy. GDP increase Pointing to a study conducted by the Thailand Development Research Institute, Minister Parnpree noted that OECD membership could potentially increase GDP by 1.6%, equating to an estimated economic value of around 270 billion baht. He argued that OECD membership could bolster Thailand’s economic security, given the developed status of its other member nations. As Thailand aims to navigate beyond the middle-income trap and achieve developed nation status by 2037, Minister Parnpree believes OECD membership would attract increased foreign investment, thereby creating more jobs for Thai citizens. He also noted the potential benefits of OECD’s Green Growth Strategy for Thailand, particularly in human resources development in the environmental sector. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin will lead a committee dedicated to accelerating Thailand’s efforts to secure OECD membership. The Green Growth Strategy, as Minister Parnpree explained, offers guidance and measurement tools to aid countries in pursuing sustainable, environmentally friendly economic growth, reported Bangkok Post. by Alex Morgan Top Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Bangkok aims to reduce plastic use with more water refill stations by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of The Nation To combat plastic pollution, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA)’s Bottle Free Seas project has proven to be a roaring success, with plans now underway to expand its reach by installing an additional 200 drinking water refill points across the city. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325340-bangkok-aims-to-reduce-plastic-use-with-more-water-refill-stations/

To combat plastic pollution, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA)’s Bottle Free Seas project has proven to be a roaring success, with plans now underway to expand its reach by installing an additional 200 drinking water refill points across the city. Launched last August, this eco-initiative has already made a significant dent in plastic bottle consumption, slashing the usage of a staggering 456,894 plastic bottles. Governor Chadchart Sittipunt, the brains behind this green revolution, revealed that the refill stations, set up in partnership with the Environmental Justice Foundation, aim to provide a convenient alternative to plastic bottles for the public. “Every time a bottle is refilled at these stations, one less single-use plastic bottle is used.” Currently, these free drinking water refill stations are strategically located at various hotspots across the city, including Benjakitti Park, Bangkok Art and Culture Centre, CentralWorld, Seacon Square, Fortune Town, Thanaburi Ramya Park, Wachirabenchathat Park, Na Phra Lan Tunnel, and Tha Maharaj shopping centre, reported The Nation. With plans to extend the project’s footprint to public health service centres, district offices, and more public parks, Governor Chadchart has called upon the private sector and philanthropic organisations to join forces in this noble cause. “If everybody collaborates, we will be able to achieve the installation target in the blink of an eye.” ORIGINAL STORY: Bangkok free water refill plan to reduce plastic use Central Pattana, alongside influential partners, spearheads the Bottle Free Seas campaign, urging Bangkokians to swap bottles for reusable options. With a staggering 70 million plastic bottles drowning Bangkok monthly, the initiative aims to flood the city with free water dispensers, starting with the iconic Central World shopping mall. The campaign, a collaborative effort between Central Pattana, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), the Environmental Justice Foundation, and Brilliant Power Co Ltd, was inaugurated by none other than BMA governor Chadchart Sittipunt himself. In a symbolic gesture, Sittipunt championed the cause by refilling his thermos at the newly installed dispenser in front of Central World. With plans to sprinkle nine more water dispensers across Bangkok, the BMA and private partners are tackling the ocean of plastic pollution generated by the city’s insatiable thirst for bottled water. An alarming 70 million plastic bottles are discarded monthly, prompting the launch of the Bottle Free Seas programme. The partners are determined to ride the wave towards a sustainable ecosystem, aligning with Thailand’s ambitious net-zero goal by 2050, reported The Nation. Uthaiwan Anuchitanukul, Assistant Managing Director of Central Pattana, expressed the company’s commitment to nipping single-use plastic in the bud. “Central Pattana wants to make a splash in reducing plastic waste, and that’s why we’ve enthusiastically joined the campaign, installing a water dispenser right at the heart of Central World. Tourists and locals alike are encouraged to ride the green wave by refilling their bottles at our dispenser.” by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of The Nation Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

British man arrested for begging to buy drugs in Koh Pha Ngan by Petch Petpailin Photo via Matichon Thai police arrested a British man after he allegedly begged for money to buy drugs outside a convenience store in Koh Pha Ngan, an island in the southern province of Surat Thani. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325339-british-man-arrested-for-begging-to-buy-drugs-in-koh-pha-ngan/