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Navy Commander Resigns Over Corvette Sinking by Krajangwit Johjit BANGKOK (NNT) - The commander of the HTMS Sukhothai, Capt Phichitchai Thueannadee, announced his intention to resign from the Royal Thai Navy, accepting responsibility for the 2022 sinking incident that resulted in the loss of 29 lives. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324692-navy-commander-resigns-over-corvette-sinking/

BANGKOK (NNT) - The commander of the HTMS Sukhothai, Capt Phichitchai Thueannadee, announced his intention to resign from the Royal Thai Navy, accepting responsibility for the 2022 sinking incident that resulted in the loss of 29 lives. This declaration came after a navy investigation attributed the disaster to a combination of severe weather conditions, unexpected structural damages, and what it described as a reckless decision not to seek immediate refuge at the nearest port. The corvette sank in the Gulf of Thailand off Prachuap Khiri Khan province on December 18, 2022, during a voyage from Sattahip Naval Base to Chumphon province, amid conditions that far exceeded the vessel's operational wave height limits. Royal Thai Navy Commander-in-Chief Adung Phan-iam detailed in a press conference how unexpectedly high waves of up to six meters led to significant damage, including a dislocated wave breaker and subsequent ruptures on the vessel. The investigation pointed out the absence of a tugboat for safe docking at Bang Saphan port as a reason for the commander's decision to head back to Sattahip, a choice later scrutinized for its lack of caution. Despite Capt Phichitchai's forthcoming resignation and his assertion of the crew's exhaustive efforts to manage the crisis, the navy disclosed he would be confined for 15 days but would not face civil litigation. The Navy also considered the retrieval of the sunken corvette from its resting place at a depth of 50 meters but deemed it prohibitively expensive and uncertain of success. Expressing regret over the incident and detailing his rationale for attempting to return to Sattahip, Capt Phichitchai said he was driven by the vessel's then-stable condition, which later deteriorated as weather conditions worsened. by Krajangwit Johjit Source: NNT 2024-04-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai industries fear trade slump due to Myanmar conflict by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Wassana Nanuam The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) has voiced concerns over the escalating armed conflict in Myanmar, predicting a further slump in border trade and a surge in illegal workers from Myanmar into Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324689-thai-industries-fear-trade-slump-due-to-myanmar-conflict/

The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) has voiced concerns over the escalating armed conflict in Myanmar, predicting a further slump in border trade and a surge in illegal workers from Myanmar into Thailand. The Thailand-Myanmar border trade, valued annually at 100 billion baht (US$ 2.7 billion), tends to suffer whenever conflict escalates, according to Kriengkrai Thiennukul, chairman of the FTI. “There are fears that the trade value will decrease, impacting both sellers and buyers as Myanmar typically imports a diverse range of consumer goods from Thailand,” Kriengkrai stated. He also pointed out that the conflict could disrupt transport and logistics, potentially causing shortages of goods among Myanmar nationals. Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara, Foreign Affairs Minister, previously highlighted that Thai authorities had held discussions on the border trade situation following a 30% decline in activity in the Mae Sot district. In response to the conflict, the government is also prepared to accommodate 100,000 displaced individuals fleeing from Myanmar after rebel forces took over Myawaddy, a border town opposite the Mae Sot district. “We are keeping a close eye on illegal migrant workers from Myanmar as the numbers are expected to rise in the wake of the conflict,” disclosed Suchart Chantaranakaracha, vice-chairman of the FTI. Under a memorandum of understanding between Bangkok and Naypyidaw, Myanmar nationals are only allowed to work in Thailand. Myanmar workers form the bulk of migrant workers in Thailand, contributing to 1.6 million out of a total of 2.6 to 3 million migrant workers in the country. These workers are employed across various fields, including food processing, fisheries, garments and textiles, automotive parts, electronics, rubber plantations, and construction. In particular, they form a significant portion of the workforce in sugar cane farming, a labour-intensive occupation. Many sugar cane farmers resort to burning their crops due to a labour shortage, resulting in a significant increase in PM2.5 ultra-fine dust particles, reported Bangkok Post. In the aftermath of a military coup against the democratically elected government in 2021, Myanmar has been hit with trade sanctions by the United States and several major European countries. Kriengkrai, however, pointed out that these sanctions do not impact Thai companies in Myanmar, as their products are exclusively for the Myanmar market and are not exported to the US or European countries. by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Wassana Nanuam Full story: The Thaiger 2024-04-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai central bank holds policy rate, predicts consistent economic growth by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Bank of Thailand The Bank of Thailand has kept the policy rate steady at 2.5% during its latest meeting, rejecting governmental calls for a decrease. The decision, marking the third consecutive meeting with no change, is based on the Thai economy’s consistent growth, which has already exceeded 2023 levels. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324688-thai-central-bank-holds-policy-rate-predicts-consistent-economic-growth/

The Bank of Thailand has kept the policy rate steady at 2.5% during its latest meeting, rejecting governmental calls for a decrease. The decision, marking the third consecutive meeting with no change, is based on the Thai economy’s consistent growth, which has already exceeded 2023 levels. Piti Disyatat, the secretary of the Bank of Thailand’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), stated that they predict a 2.6% growth in Thai GDP this year, aligning closely with the economy’s potential growth rate. He remarked, “The central bank foresees higher GDP growth for the first quarter of this year than the fourth quarter of 2023,” adding that “growth is expected to improve quarter-on-quarter throughout the year.” Such an optimistic growth trajectory should contribute to GDP growth in the coming year, with the bank anticipating a 3% expansion in 2025. The National Economic and Social Development Council reported an economic growth of 1.7% in the final quarter of 2023 and 1.9% for the entire year. In light of these positive trends, the MPC made a 5-2 decision yesterday to maintain the policy rate at 2.5%, with the two dissenting votes opting for a 0.25 percentage point cut. Piti emphasised that the MPC’s decision was grounded on a holistic view of the economy, considering both upside and downside risks. He mentioned, “The 5-2 vote reflects differing perspectives, and the prime minister may hold an alternative viewpoint.” The bank’s GDP growth projections for 2024 and 2025 took into account the government’s recent stimulus measures, including property incentives and a 500-billion-baht (US$ 13.6 billion) budget for the digital wallet scheme. Piti identified tourism and private consumption as the main growth drivers this year, with foreign tourist arrivals in the first three months approximately matching the bank’s projection of 35.5 million for 2024, a significant increase from 28.2 million in 2023. Government budget disbursements for fiscal 2024, slated for the fourth quarter of this year, are expected to stimulate the economy from late 2024 into 2025. Despite this optimism, Piti acknowledged uncertainties surrounding the Thai economy, particularly concerning export recovery, government budget disbursement, fiscal stimulus measures, and monetary policies of major global economies. GDP growth Theerasate Prompong, an analyst at Maybank Securities Thailand, pointed out that the MPC’s decision to keep the rate steady was in line with about 70% of analysts’ predictions. He believed that the current rate is beneficial for maintaining economic stability and aiding monetary policy. He also noted the Thai stock market and economy’s potential for growth, citing possible government stimulus measures, a robust export performance, and increased state infrastructure projects after the fiscal 2024 budget approval, reported Bangkok Post. Therdsak Thaveeteeratham, executive vice president of Asia Plus Securities, posited that it would be surprising if the MPC decided to cut the rate before the Federal Reserve does, which is likely to happen after June. He stated that the Bank of Thailand’s decision to keep the policy rate constant was to mitigate baht fluctuation, despite inflation having been on a decline for several months. by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Bank of Thailand Full story: The Thaiger 2024-04-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand’s tourism sector set to generate 614 billion baht in Q2 by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Despite the second quarter often being perceived as the off-peak season, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) anticipates that the country’s tourism sector will generate a revenue of 614 billion baht (US$ 16.7 billion). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324686-thailand’s-tourism-sector-set-to-generate-614-billion-baht-in-q2/

Despite the second quarter often being perceived as the off-peak season, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) anticipates that the country’s tourism sector will generate a revenue of 614 billion baht (US$ 16.7 billion). This optimistic prediction is attributed to a surge in domestic trips during the Songkran festivities scheduled for this month, which are set to surpass the number of trips recorded in the first quarter. TAT’s governor, Thapanee Kiatphaibool, projected that the nation will amass 246 billion baht (US$ 6.7 billion) from an estimated 44.4 million domestic trips, while foreign tourists are expected to contribute 368 billion baht (US$ 10 billion) in revenue from approximately 8.27 million visits during the second quarter. According to Thapanee, the volume of domestic trips is likely to outdo the figures recorded in the second quarter of 2019, with the domestic income nearing a full recovery to 97% of the amounts posted during that period. She referenced the 41.1 million trips made by local tourists during the first quarter of this year, which resulted in expenditures totalling 228 billion baht (US$ 6.2 billion). The governor identified the 21-day Songkran celebration, inclusive of the Maha Songkran World Water Festival held in Bangkok’s Ratchadamnoen Klang Road, as a significant catalyst for the anticipated growth in the second quarter. Additional public holidays, such as Visakha Bucha Day, HM Queen’s birthday and the school summer season, are also expected to fuel the increase in trips, Thapanee added. However, TAT acknowledged potential obstacles that could dampen consumer spending, including elevated living costs, household debt, and fluctuating energy prices. The agency also noted a growing interest among Thais to travel overseas, expressing that domestic destinations like Phuket and Samui can be as costly as travelling to foreign countries. The second quarter also marks the low season for the foreign market, with the number of trips projected to decrease from 9.3 million (generating 476 billion baht (US$ 13 billion) in the first quarter) to 8.27 million trips, contributing 368 billion baht (US$ 10 billion) in the second quarter. Tourism revenue TAT estimates a year-on-year growth of 29% and 25% in the number of international visitors and revenue, respectively, with recovery levels reaching 92% and 95% of the 2019 figures in the corresponding categories. Thapanee noted that Asian markets are projected to maintain stability this quarter, bolstered by extended holidays in major markets such as Japan’s Golden Week and China’s Labour Day in early May. The governor also highlighted that tourists from the Middle East exhibit eagerness to travel abroad in April, following the conclusion of Ramadan. “TAT has been targeting tourists in the middle- to upper-income segments, including first-time visitors from second-tier cities in China and India, the meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions segment, and niche markets with special interests, such as health and wellness as well as sports,” Thapanee added, reported Bangkok Post. She, however, pointed out challenges for international markets, including China’s sluggish economy, the war in Ukraine instigated by Russia, the Israel-Gaza conflict, and the El Niño weather phenomenon. According to Thapanee, high international travel costs continue to deter families and long-haul tourists from visiting Thailand. Full story: The Thaiger 2024-04-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai government’s 500-billion-baht digital wallet scheme launches this quarter by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Government House Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin announced yesterday that the government’s 500-billion-baht digital wallet initiative will be launched in full swing in the fourth quarter to stimulate economic growth. This flagship policy of the ruling Pheu Thai Party plans to distribute 10,000 baht to 50 million Thai citizens for spending within their local communities over six months. Full stry: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324632-pm-assures-digital-wallet-benefit-distribution-in-last-quarter-of-year/?do=findComment&comment=18834387

Thai government’s 500-billion-baht digital wallet scheme launches this quarter by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Government House Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin announced yesterday that the government’s 500-billion-baht digital wallet initiative will be launched in full swing in the fourth quarter to stimulate economic growth. This flagship policy of the ruling Pheu Thai Party plans to distribute 10,000 baht to 50 million Thai citizens for spending within their local communities over six months. Srettha, who also serves as the finance minister, asserted during a briefing that the policy would enhance GDP by 1.2 to 1.6%. He emphasised the need for substantial stimulus measures for the economy, which may have seen less than 1% growth in the first quarter following a 1.7% annualised growth in the final quarter of 2023. According to PM Srettha, the handout scheme will provide a cash injection to help alleviate the economic strain on locals due to the increasing cost of living, while also improving the living standards of vulnerable groups and farmers. He added that the initiative will bolster local economies, fostering self-reliance in more communities. Additionally, the scheme will support the development of digital technologies and innovation. “Today, the government is delighted to announce that the 10,000-baht (US$ 270) digital wallet handout scheme, which is the government’s flagship policy, will officially begin. The government has been trying its utmost to overcome obstacles and limitations until this day when it has acted on its promise. The policy is in line with the law and strictly complies with financial discipline.” Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat clarified that the digital wallet scheme, requiring 500 billion baht (US$ 13 billion), will be funded through three sources. Of the total, 152.7 billion baht (US$ 4 billion) will be sourced from the 2025 fiscal year budget, while an additional 172.3 billion baht (US$ 4.7 billion) will be borrowed from the Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives’ budget for the 2025 fiscal year under Section 28 of the State Fiscal and Financial Disciplines Act. This sum will be allocated to 17.23 million farmers. The remaining 175 billion baht (US$ 4.8 billion) will be derived from the reallocation of the 2024 fiscal year budget. Digital wallet Registration for the handout will commence in the third quarter and the funds can be spent in the fourth quarter. A subcommittee under the Digital Wallet Policy Committee will monitor any potential breaches of the scheme’s criteria and other related laws. The Finance Ministry will present the scheme for Cabinet approval this month, according to Amornvivat. Finance’s permanent secretary, Lavaron Sangsnit, insisted that the scheme will be funded under the Budget Act and the State Fiscal and Financial Disciplines Act. Thais aged 16 and over, earning less than 70,000 baht (US$ 2,000) a month and with less than 500,000 baht (US$ 3,600) in their bank accounts, are eligible to receive the 10,000-baht handout. Based on these conditions, approximately 50 million individuals will be eligible, a decrease from the initial estimate of 56 million. The handout is strictly for purchasing food and consumer goods. It cannot be used for online purchases, cigarettes or alcohol, cash vouchers, or valuable items like diamonds, gems, or gold. Neither can it be used for debt repayment, utility bills, fuel, natural gas, or tuition fees. The funds must be spent within the district where the recipient’s home is registered. Despite facing criticism from some economists and former central bank governors, who deemed the scheme fiscally irresponsible, the government has been striving to finance the initiative without adding to the public debt, reported Bangkok Post. Former election commissioner, Somchai Srisutthiyakorn, criticised certain aspects of the scheme yesterday via Facebook. He pointed out the government’s lack of clarity regarding the interest rate and repayment period for the 172.3-billion baht loan from the BAAC. Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Chiang Mai to declare PM2.5 crisis areas as disaster relief zones by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Panumate Tanraksa Nirat Phongsitthithawon, the governor of Chiang Mai, announced that any area experiencing a PM2.5 dust pollution crisis of Level 2 or higher would be declared a disaster relief area, entitling it to emergency aid. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324678-chiang-mai-to-declare-pm25-crisis-areas-as-disaster-relief-zones/

Nirat Phongsitthithawon, the governor of Chiang Mai, announced that any area experiencing a PM2.5 dust pollution crisis of Level 2 or higher would be declared a disaster relief area, entitling it to emergency aid. He explained that a Level 2 crisis is declared when the average amount of fine particulate matter smaller than 2.5 micrometres exceeds 150 microgrammes per cubic metre for five consecutive days, following the guidelines set by the committee on air pollution management for sustainability. The governor revealed that Chiang Mai is equipped with six air quality monitoring stations, three in Mueang district and one each in Chiang Dao, Hot, and Mae Chaem districts. Data indicates that the PM2.5 level exceeded the critical threshold for nine days from April 1 to April 9 in Chiang Dao. He also mentioned that the Comptroller General’s Department is working on defining criteria and guidelines for declaring disaster relief areas. Once these are established, financial aid can be allocated to the affected areas. To handle the haze problem, which stems from wildfires, agricultural practices, and vehicular and industrial emissions, several strategies are being implemented. These include closing 21 conservation forests to prevent wildfires and the anticipated closure of 25 national forest reserves. Agricultural burning practices are being targeted through a strict no farm burning rule enforced by agencies under the Ministry of Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives. Non-compliant farmers risk having their support from these agencies suspended. In urban locales, transport authorities have been instructed to increase checks on vehicles emitting black smoke, and industrial work officials are being directed to inspect factories that release pollutants. According to IQAir.com, Chiang Mai was ranked 11th yesterday for the worst air quality, with the province’s AQI hitting 156, significantly above the safe threshold of 100. Four districts in the province recorded unsafe levels of ultra-fine dust pollution: Doi Saket, Mueang District, San Sai, and Mae On, reported Bangkok Post. by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Panumate Tanraksa Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Thursday 11 April 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324676-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-thursday-11-april-2024/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has ordered the retrieval of cadmium waste found at several locations by the end of the month. Significant quantities of cadmium waste, including more than 3,and a half thousand tonnes found yesterday, will be returned to the original owners in Tak province.. Another company in Samut Sakhorn will face charges for possession of hazardous waste. The original owners of the waste, a company called Bound & Beyond, agreed to transport the waste back to Tak for disposal in a landfill by April 30th.. The government's 500-billion-baht digital wallet handout scheme will be distributed during the fourth quarter to boost economic growth according the Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, adding that 10,000 baht will be distributed to 50 million Thais within six months. The handout will inject cash to assist many locals affected by rising cost of living while strengthening local economies. Thailand's military tightened security near a border town adjoining Myanmar, where anti-junta rebels continued to clash with the Junta’s military that has suffered a string of defeats. Thai army vehicles, equipped with roof-mounted machine guns, patrolled the streets of Mae Sot, as the sound of explosions and heavy fighting could be heard from across the border in Myawaddy, The Ombudsman has been asked to petition the Constitutional Court to rule whether an MOU signed in 2001 on joint development with Cambodia in the Gulf of Thailand is in breach of the Thai constitution, the area covers 26 thousand square kilometers. A request to the ombudsman claims The 2001 MoU had not been approved by parliament before it was signed, which meant it had no legal standing. Around the region Taiwan: The death toll from a massive earthquake that struck the east coast last week rose to 16 yesterday after three more bodies were found on a hiking trail, more than 1,100 people injured, with strict building codes and widespread disaster readiness are belived to have averted an even bigger catastrophe. WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: partly cloudy thunder showers 37C Bangkok: cloudy 37C Pattaya: Sunny partly cloudy with showers 33C Phuket and the south: Sunny partly cloudy 35C Hua Hin: Sunny, also fairly cloudy, a chance of an isolated shower 34 C AQI yellow, moderate Green clear, yellow moderate, Orange High, Red unhealthy. Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, Royal Coast Review, Kulsawek Sawekwannakorn, Thainewsroom.com, 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 2024-04-11 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai-Cambodian MoU under scrutiny for potential constitutional violation by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post The Thai-Cambodian Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on joint development in the Gulf of Thailand, signed in 2001, is now under scrutiny for potential violation of the Thai constitution. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324675-thai-cambodian-mou-under-scrutiny-for-potential-constitutional-violation/

The Thai-Cambodian Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on joint development in the Gulf of Thailand, signed in 2001, is now under scrutiny for potential violation of the Thai constitution. Paiboon Nititawan, Palang Pracharath Party’s (PPRP) deputy leader, has requested the Office of the Ombudsman to petition the Constitutional Court to examine the MoU’s legality. Paiboon’s petition argues that the MoU was not approved by the Thai parliament before its signing, rendering it legally ineffective from its inception. He identifies the Department of Treaties and Legal Affairs and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as the entities responsible for this alleged constitutional breach. Despite acknowledging the absence of parliamentary approval for the MoU, Paiboon stated that both departments continue to use the MoU as a reference for agreements between the two nations. This pertains particularly to the 26,000 square kilometres of territorial waters in the Gulf of Thailand, over which Thailand has sovereignty. The MoU is cited whenever Thailand and Cambodia attempt to negotiate further agreements regarding the sharing of natural resources within these territorial waters. These resources are estimated to be worth more than 20 trillion baht (US$ 545 billion), according to Paiboon. Paiboon’s request to the Ombudsman includes a proposal for the Court to order the mentioned departments to cease using the 2001 MoU in their work related to demarcating the disputed territorial waters. Paiboon believes that if the Court determines the 2001 MoU to be unconstitutional and legally void, Thailand will be better positioned in future disputes over overlapping Thai-Cambodian claims. This is based on the 1969 Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties, which states that an agreement is null if it was incomplete from the start. Paiboon also noted that Cambodia consistently defends its position by referring to the 2001 MoU, arguing that Thailand formally recognised these territorial waters as areas of overlapping claims between the two nations, reported Bangkok Post. If the Cambodian government does not acknowledge the potential invalidity of the 2001 MoU, Paiboon has urged the Thai government to refer the matter to the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea in Hamburg, Germany. by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Family falls victim to sophisticated accommodation scam in Hua Hin By Online Reporter File photo A family eagerly anticipating their holiday in Hua Hin were tricked into booking a non-existent luxury rental through Facebook. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324671-family-falls-victim-to-sophisticated-accommodation-scam-in-hua-hin/

A family eagerly anticipating their holiday in Hua Hin were tricked into booking a non-existent luxury rental through Facebook. The incident, which has caught the attention of Thai news outlets including Ejan, highlights a worrying trend of fraudulent schemes that prey on unsuspecting tourists. The family, led by a person identified only as Kukkai, were about to begin their annual vacation, searching for a pet-friendly accommodation that could host 8 to 10 people. A property, under the name of ‘Siam Sea View Pool Villa’ was found on Facebook, promising a lavish stay at a reasonable price. Drawn by the luxurious appearance and the ability to accommodate their needs, the family proceeded to book three rooms for two nights at a total cost of 19,000 baht, which included a 4,000 baht security deposit. Top: File photo Full story: HUA HIN TODAY 2024-04-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Lethal Cadmium linked to a shift in dangerous e-waste recycling from China to Thailand since 2017 by James Morris and Son Nguyen However, environmental activist groups are aware of the ongoing threat. E-waste imports into Thailand have rocketed by over 2100% since 2017. This was when China outlawed the industry outright on its soil. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324669-lethal-cadmium-linked-to-a-shift-in-e-waste-recycling-from-china-to-thailand-since-2017/

However, environmental activist groups are aware of the ongoing threat. E-waste imports into Thailand have rocketed by over 2100% since 2017. This was when China outlawed the industry outright on its soil. On Wednesday, 19 workers in Samut Sakhon were tested by medics and found to have dangerously high levels of the cancer-causing substance. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin (centre) reacted decisively this week to the crisis regarding 13,450 tons of lethal cadmium shipped illegally from Tak province to various locations in Thailand. (Inset left) On Wednesday, investigators found more of the toxic substance at a sealed-off factory in Samut Sakhon. In the meantime, Prime Minister Srettha ordered Industry Minister Pimpatra Wichaikul (inset right) to personally oversee emergency efforts. Thailand’s toxicity crisis is linked to the shift of e-waste processors to the kingdom. Cadmium scare shocks Thailand with health fears for workers in Samut Sakhon. A massive 13,450 tons were finally thought to be accounted for. The PM orders urgent and tough action. However, is he ready to tackle the e-waste industry? Banned in China, it is now threatening the health of Thai workers and an already scarred environment in provinces throughout Thailand. Thailand must again look at its industrial development policies as well as regulatory oversight and enforcement. This comes as it appears the kingdom is being used as a new base by illegal e-waste recyclers from China. The massive cadmium scare, this week, which even led to the Royal Thai Army producing an emergency plan, is certainly not a once-off. Thai authorities led by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and Industry Minister Pimpatra Wichaikul were left scrambling to deal with the emergency involving the lethal carcinogen, Cadmium. 13,450 tons of the substance was discovered missing from a disposal plant in Tak province. In turn, this led to finds in Samut Sakhon, Chonburi and even Bangkok. Thai authorities may well be forced to reexamine the country’s industrial regulations following an exploding scandal linked to e-waste. It comes with the proliferation of such factories in recent years, many of them established by Chinese owners. On Wednesday, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin promised urgent action to stamp out the threat from e-waste to exposed local populations. by James Morris and Son Nguyen Full story: Thai Examiner.com 2024-04-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pakistani Man Arrested in Patong for 398 Days of Overstay By Goongnang Suksawat Phuket – A Pakistani man was arrested in Patong after he was found to have overstayed his legal visa by 398 days. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324668-pakistani-man-arrested-in-patong-for-398-days-of-overstay/

Phuket – A Pakistani man was arrested in Patong after he was found to have overstayed his legal visa by 398 days. Phuket Immigration officers told the Phuket Express that earlier this month they arrested a suspect identified only as MR. ANEES, 26, a Pakistani national. He was arrested in front of a house on the Ratcha Uthit 200 Pi Road in Patong. He was taken to the Patong Police Station to face charges of overstaying. The arrest came after Phuket Immigration officers were patrolling at an apartment nearby. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-04-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Four Foreign Tourists Rescued After Getting Lost at Krating Cape in Rawai By Goongnang Suksawat Rawai – Four foreign tourists were helped after they got lost at the Krating Cape in Rawai on Tuesday (April 9th). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324666-four-foreign-tourists-rescued-after-getting-lost-at-krating-cape-in-rawai/

Rawai – Four foreign tourists were helped after they got lost at the Krating Cape in Rawai on Tuesday (April 9th). Staff at the Rawai Municipality were notified of the incident by a hotel in Rawai. They were notified by unidentified foreign tourists that their friends had got lost at the Krating Cape. Firefighters and lifeguards went out to search for them using a GPS location sent by the lost group of tourists. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-04-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

American Motorbike Rider Arrested for Drunk Driving in Patong By Goongnang Suksawat Patong –An American motorbike rider was arrested in Patong for drunk driving. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324665-american-motorbike-rider-arrested-for-drunk-driving-in-patong/