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The premier has ordered the setting up of an ad hoc committee, comprising the authorities concerned to handle the problem of cadmium slag which is believed to be scattered across several provinces. The committee will comprise representatives from ministries of Industry, Interior, Public Health and Natural Resources and Environment ministries as well as police and the Department of Special Investigation. About 13,000 tonnes of the material, previously buried in a landfill in Tak province, had been recovered and illegally sent to Samut Sakhon, among other provinces, reportedly to be smelted down. Most of it has now been recovered from warehouses in Samut Sakhon and Chon Buri provinces, leaving some 4,000 tonnes still unaccounted for. Full story: Thai PBS 2024-04-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Senate approves AI regulation in election campaigns by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post A report advocating for the regulation of election campaigns conducted using artificial intelligence (AI) was approved by the Senate yesterday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324609-senate-approves-ai-regulation-in-election-campaigns/

A report advocating for the regulation of election campaigns conducted using artificial intelligence (AI) was approved by the Senate yesterday. The Senate Committee on Politics compiled the report, which was presented during a meeting chaired by Senate Speaker Pornpetch Wichitcholchai. The report primarily focused on the use of social media in politics and election canvassing. The Senate’s term will come to an end on May 11, marking the last meeting before the term concludes. Despite this, senators will continue to operate in a caretaking capacity until their successors are elected in the next few months. The report underscored the challenges of regulating social media in foreign countries, the lack of awareness about the potential harm posed by social media, the limitations that certain political parties face when attempting to connect with voters via these platforms, the obstacles that prevent the Election Commission (EC) from enforcing poll-related laws, and the application of an outdated poll law in elections. The EC was advised in the report to enhance the election law and associated regulations to keep pace with new technology-driven tools used in canvassing. Seree Suwanpanont, the senator who chairs the report committee, emphasised that the EC needed to keep up with rapidly evolving technology to prevent online social platforms from being manipulated by parties or individuals aiming to gain an unjust edge over competitors in elections. The EC’s objective is to combat vote-buying and other illegal campaign practices, including those related to campaign design and election posters. However, the current election law does not include the regulation of social media as a tool for electioneering. Seree highlighted that campaigns conducted on social media are more costly than traditional canvassing, yet they continue to operate without regulation. “When there is no control, it leads to an unfair advantage.” He added that the EC must ensure fair elections and a level playing field for all parties. The senator further recommended that the Digital Economy and Society Ministry should take action against distorted information, misuse of AI and the spread of misinformation, reported Bangkok Post. Senator Anuporn Aroonrut predicted that information operations, such as doctored audio clips and AI, will become widespread in the imminent Senate election. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Songkhla Lake and its settlements to be proposed as UNESCO World Heritage site The Thai cabinet has approved a proposal from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment to nominate Songkhla and its associated lagoon settlements for UNESCO World Heritage Site listing. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324608-songkhla-lake-and-its-settlements-to-be-proposed-as-unesco-world-heritage-site/

The Thai cabinet has approved a proposal from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment to nominate Songkhla and its associated lagoon settlements for UNESCO World Heritage Site listing. Deputy government spokesperson Kaenika Oonchit said that Songkhla and its associated lagoon settlements, which are located in four districts of the province, namely Ranot, Sathing Phra, Singhanakhon and Muang, have unique characteristics worthy of listing. Songkhla Lake is a lagoon which is connected to the Gulf of Thailand and is the only inland lake in Thailand with brackish (slightly saline) water. This produces a unique and diverse ecological system. Full story: Thai PBS 2024-04-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

PM Inspected Suvarnabhumi Airport SAMUT PRAKAN, April 10 (TNA) – Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin inspected Suvarnabhumi Airport without prior notice last night to assess the public and tourist service systems ahead of the Songkran Festival. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324605-pm-inspected-suvarnabhumi-airport/

SAMUT PRAKAN, April 10 (TNA) – Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin inspected Suvarnabhumi Airport without prior notice last night to assess the public and tourist service systems ahead of the Songkran Festival. This visit marks the third time the Prime Minister has inspected in this manner, with previous visits occurring in February. Upon arrival, the Prime Minister inspected the check-in system and found that the management system was operating well, with passengers not experiencing long waits. This improvement is attributed to the airport allowing earlier check-in from 3 hours to 4 hours before the departure time. Subsequently, Kittipong Kittikachorn, the Director of Suvarnabhumi Airport, and Pol.Maj.Gen. Choengron Rimpadee, commander of immigration officers at the international airport welcomed the Prime Minister and led him to conduct inspections at various points. The Prime Minister then inspected the Immigration Bureau's system, which previously experienced several crashes.Pol. Maj. Gen. Chongran confirmed that the system would no longer crash as it had been improved and connected to the airport's system, enhancing efficiency. Full story: TNA-MCOT 2024-04-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Splashy Songkran: Thai restaurant sales set to surge despite economic lull by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Looking ahead to the upcoming Songkran festival, a trade group predicts a boost in restaurant sales during the second quarter, which could potentially surpass pre-pandemic levels, despite the current stagnant economy. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324603-splashy-songkran-thai-restaurant-sales-set-to-surge-despite-economic-lull/

Looking ahead to the upcoming Songkran festival, a trade group predicts a boost in restaurant sales during the second quarter, which could potentially surpass pre-pandemic levels, despite the current stagnant economy. Thaniwan Kulmongkol, President of the Thai Restaurant Association, noted that although the second quarter is typically a slow season for the Thai restaurant industry, the Songkran festival is expected to stimulate sales. She pointed out that Thailand’s sluggish economy is a significant risk factor to keep an eye on. According to Thaniwan, the government’s efforts to invigorate the economy through the organisation of various events and activities could potentially stimulate tourism in the country. For instance, the government recently launched the Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2024. This grand event, which is scheduled to run from April 1 to April 21, will feature 20 grand processions and cultural performances by over 1,000 performers across the nation. Thaniwan indicates that the restaurant sector is set to benefit from an influx of foreign tourists during the Songkran festival. Factoring in local consumption, Thaniwan predicts that this year’s sales could even surpass the levels recorded before the pandemic in 2019, reported Bangkok Post. In the first quarter of this year alone, Thailand welcomed more than 9.3 million foreign tourists. The Economics Tourism and Sports Division reports that China, followed by Malaysia and Russia, was the main source of foreign visitors to Thailand. The government is hopeful to welcome between 35 and 40 million foreign tourists this year, said Thaniwan optimistically. “I think, for the whole year, Thailand will receive 36 million foreign tourists. This would add an extra income to restaurant operators, from food carts to high-end restaurants.” Thaniwan estimates that Thailand’s restaurant market will be worth 500 billion baht (US$14 billion) this year, a 25% increase from approximately 400 billion baht (US$11 billion) in 2019. This estimation does not take into account revenue from foreign tourists. However, she acknowledges that the rise in market value is partly due to increasing food prices. “Five years ago with the same 100 baht (US$ 3), you could buy two or three dishes, but now you can only buy one or two.” by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Dusit International urges government to boost quality tourism in Thailand by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Dusit International Vice Chairman Chanin Donavanik urged the government to focus on enhancing the quality of tourism and encouraging exploration of lesser-known destinations to boost the industry. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324599-dusit-international-urges-government-to-boost-quality-tourism-in-thailand/

Dusit International Vice Chairman Chanin Donavanik urged the government to focus on enhancing the quality of tourism and encouraging exploration of lesser-known destinations to boost the industry. Chanin believes the government’s existing tourism promotion policies, including visa-free schemes and luxury tax reductions, are effective. Chanin, who also serves as the executive committee’s chairman, highlighted several areas for the authorities to prioritise. These include the improvement of safety and convenience in the tourism sector. “Thailand should focus on increasing spending rather than counting on volume. More importantly, it should steer them to second-tier cities, the same way Thai tourists are eager to explore new destinations in Japan.” Chanin stressed the importance of maintaining high standards of service for tourists by accelerating the registration of unregistered hotels and accommodations in the country. The Dusit family’s second-generation member, Chanin stated that Thai tourism has shown robust recovery this year as flights have resumed. He noted that the growth of hotels in major Thai cities continues due to the strengthening inbound markets from the Middle East, China, Southeast Asia, and South Korea. The former Thai Hotels Association president also emphasised that the hospitality sector should refrain from engaging in a price war, as it had done in the past, and instead compete through quality service to attract guests. Dusit International plans to reopen its flagship, the Dusit Thani Bangkok Hotel, in September as part of the US$46 billion (approximately 1 trillion baht) mixed-use project, Dusit Central Park. “Dusit Thani Bangkok aspires to be a destination for both old and young generations that can compete as a home-grown brand on the international stage.” The group has conducted extensive overseas research on hotel renovations to determine how it can reposition itself against new competitors. Renovations The Dusit Thani Bangkok underwent significant renovations in 1980 and 1996, maintaining the same building structure. While the current project represents a significant change, Chanin affirmed that the group is committed to preserving as much of Dusit Thani’s unique character as possible. The new hotel will feature higher-quality facilities and services, including larger room sizes to cater to new demand. The project is 90% complete with only interior decorations remaining. Before the reconstruction, the Dusit Thani Bangkok Hotel accounted for over 20% of the group’s total revenue, reported Bangkok Post. With several large projects underway along Rama IV Road and the Silom area, Chanin believes these developments can make Bangkok a more attractive destination, complementing rather than competing with each other. by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Stormy forecast: Thailand braces for thunder, wind, and hail by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of Micah Tindell, Unsplash Thailand’s northern region is bracing for severe summer storms, as the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issues a warning for thunderstorms, strong winds, and possible hail in some areas. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324598-stormy-forecast-thailand-braces-for-thunder-wind-and-hail/

Thailand’s northern region is bracing for severe summer storms, as the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issues a warning for thunderstorms, strong winds, and possible hail in some areas. The warning, which took effect from 5am today, April 10, and is expected to continue until tomorrow, April 11, is a result of high-pressure systems from China extending over the northeast of the country and the South China Sea. The country’s upper region is currently experiencing exceptionally hot weather, aggravated by westerly wind waves passing through Myanmar and upper northern Thailand. Such conditions are conducive to the formation of summer storms characterised by thunderstorms, gusty winds, and in some places, hailstorms, with lightning strikes also a possibility in certain areas. The storms are anticipated to impact the northeast first, with other regions to follow. The public is advised to prepare for the storms by avoiding open spaces, taking shelter away from large trees, weak buildings, and advertising hoardings, and farmers are urged to safeguard their crops and livestock from potential damage. The affected provinces today, April 10 include: In the north: Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Lamphun, Lampang, Nan, Phrae, Uttaradit, Sukhothai, Kamphaeng Phet, Phichit, Phitsanulok, Phetchabun, and Tak. In the northeast: Loei, Nong Bua Lam Phu, Udon Thani, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Kalasin, Khon Kaen, Maha Sarakham, Chaiyaphum, and Nakhon Ratchasima. In the central region: Nakhon Sawan, Uthai Thani, Chai Nat, Lopburi, Saraburi, Singburi, Ang Thong, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Suphanburi, Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Nakhon Pathom, Samut Sakhon, and Samut Songkhram, as well as Bangkok and its vicinity. In the east: Nakhon Nayok, Prachinburi, Sa Kaeo, Chachoengsao, Chon Buri, and Rayong. For April 11, the northern provinces expected to be affected are Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lamphun, Lampang, Phayao, Nan, Phrae, and Tak, reported KhaoSod. Residents are urged to stay updated by following announcements from the TMD and can access information on the department’s website at http://www.tmd.go.th or through the 24-hour hotline numbers 0-2399-4012-13 and 1182. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of Micah Tindell, Unsplash Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

British man fined 5,000 baht for naked stroll on Krabi beach by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ โหนกระแส A British man faces a fine of 5,000 baht after a viral video, filmed by a Thai local, showed him walking naked with his friends along Ao Nang Beach in the southern province of Krabi. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324597-british-man-fined-5000-baht-for-naked-stroll-on-krabi-beach/

A British man faces a fine of 5,000 baht after a viral video, filmed by a Thai local, showed him walking naked with his friends along Ao Nang Beach in the southern province of Krabi. A resident of Krabi province witnessed the naked British man, later identified as 23 year old Joseph William Kershaw, and filmed him. The video was later shared on several social media platforms sparking complaints against the foreign man’s behaviour. In the video, a gathering of 20 to 30 foreigners can be seen posing for a group photograph in front of the Sailfish Sculpture on Ao Nang Beach. Kershaw was seen strolling naked in the presence of his companions, swinging his clothes in hand. The individual who filmed the incident informed Channel 3 that it occurred on April 8. The group of foreign tourists arrived at the location accompanied by a Thai tour guide. Kershaw’s companions appeared to applaud his behaviour and encourage him. Neither his companions nor the Thai guide intervened. While the foreign group may have found Kershaw’s actions amusing, locals did not share the sentiment, asserting that his behaviour disrespected both the landmark sculpture and the community. The person filming noted that both Thais and foreigners were present at the scene when the incident occurred, yet Kershaw proceeded with his actions, apparently under the impression that he could behave as he pleased in Thailand as a foreign tourist. Krabi Immigration Police and Ao Nang Police Station managed to identify Kershaw and found that he was in Thailand on a tourist visa. The British man was summoned to the Ao Nang Police Station yesterday, April 9. Kershaw issued an apology for his inappropriate action in the public place and claimed that he acted under the influence of alcohol. As a result of his actions, Kershaw was fined 5,000 baht under Section 388 of the Criminal Law: performing a disgraceful act in public by undressing himself, exhibiting his undressed person, or committing any other act of obscenity. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ โหนกระแส Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai govt explores legalisation of casino entertainment complexes by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of the Immigration Bureau The Thai Cabinet yesterday endorsed a House committee report, greenlighting the prospect of legalising entertainment complexes featuring casinos within the country. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324596-thai-govt-explores-legalisation-of-casino-entertainment-complexes/

The Thai Cabinet yesterday endorsed a House committee report, greenlighting the prospect of legalising entertainment complexes featuring casinos within the country. The Ministry of Finance received orders to conduct a further feasibility study concerning this potential investment within a 30-day timeframe. Kenika Ounjit, the deputy government spokeswoman, highlighted that the entertainment complex initiative constitutes a vital component in the government’s advancement of the fun economy sector. This sector comprises tourism, sports, entertainment venues, and meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) businesses, which have demonstrated consistent growth and positively impacted Thailand’s economy. The House committee’s study report, mentioned by Kenika, suggested that the proposed entertainment complex initiative could aid in generating increased tax revenue. This, in turn, would facilitate the government’s ability to provide aid to a broader demographic. However, Kenika emphasised the necessity for public participation and hearings to determine whether to proceed with the proposed casino initiative. The Cabinet also advised that the government should not be the sole investor in such a project to avoid new budgetary burdens. Instead, a joint investment approach with multiple private partners, granting them a concessionaire, would be more appropriate. The Cabinet also recommended that any potential entertainment complex should be conveniently located near an international airport to accommodate international visitors. Furthermore, they suggested the implementation of a unique casino tax on the casino business. The establishment of a specific government organisation was another proposal put forth by the Cabinet. This organisation would handle the potential negative impacts of the proposed entertainment complex. Additionally, a distinct law should be enacted to directly regulate this emerging business, Kenika added. However, the proposed legalisation of casinos encountered significant opposition from a group of university academics, mainly from Chulalongkorn University. The academics issued a statement expressing their concerns that legalising casinos in Thailand could lead to more harm than good, reported Bangkok Post. They disputed the House committee’s assertion that legalising casinos aligns with the government’s economic stimulus efforts. The academics argued that gambling has never been acknowledged as a business activity by economists due to its lack of economic product creation. by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of the Immigration Bureau Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie’s opulent family holiday in Phuket by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Yahoo UK Ever wondered how Hollywood’s elite enjoy their family vacations? Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie show us how it’s done with their opulent getaway in Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324594-brad-pitt-and-angelina-jolie’s-opulent-family-holiday-in-phuket/

Ever wondered how Hollywood’s elite enjoy their family vacations? Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie show us how it’s done with their opulent getaway in Thailand. The power couple, along with their brood of six, Maddox, Pax, Zahara, Shiloh, Knox, and Vivienne are basking in luxury at the Amanpuri beach resort in Phuket, where they’re shelling out a jaw-dropping £18,000 (approximately 828,000 baht) per night. According to New York Post’s Page Six, the Jolie-Pitt clan is indulging in a sprawling 10-bedroom pad complete with a team of eight servants, a private gym, and a pool surrounded by charming mini pagodas. But it’s not just about relaxation, Angelina is in Asia shooting her latest film, First They Killed My Father: A Daughter of Cambodia, with some help from her son Maddox, who’s working as a production assistant. Despite their busy schedules, the couple managed a romantic break to Vietnam before Christmas, exploring idyllic Halong Bay. While in Thailand, the family is seizing every moment, spotted swimming off a luxury yacht, playing minigolf, and even visiting local temples, reported Yahoo UK. However, not all has been smooth sailing. Us Weekly reports a minor hiccup when Pax had a mishap on a jet ski, but thankfully, he’s okay. Yet, amidst the drama, Brad and Angelina find time for serene moments, recently seen exploring caves in a private canoe. After sharing the screen as an on-screen couple in By The Sea, it’s evident that this powerhouse duo values family time. In related news, despite earlier announcements, the traditional water-splashing activities during the Songkran festival in Thailand will not run throughout the entire month-long celebration, according to Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol, the Tourism and Sports Minister. The minister clarified that although the festival activities were scheduled from April 1 and set to end by the month’s close, water-splashing was not part of the whole duration. Picture courtesy of Yahoo by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Yahoo UK Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Street vendor’s fried wonton pricing sparks social media uproar by Samantha Rose Picture courtesy of Sanook A recent social media post sparked a debate about the fairness of food pricing after a woman paid 50 baht for less than ten pieces of fried wontons from a street vendor. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324593-street-vendor’s-fried-wonton-pricing-sparks-social-media-uproar/

A recent social media post sparked a debate about the fairness of food pricing after a woman paid 50 baht for less than ten pieces of fried wontons from a street vendor. The post, which quickly went viral, led to a flurry of comments from netizens astonished by what they deemed an exorbitant cost for such a meagre serving. On April 8, a member of the Facebook group We Are the Consumers, which boasts a membership of over 720,000, shared an image showing a small portion of fried wontons priced at 50 baht. The customer recounted their surprise upon receiving the order, which contained no filling, just crispy fried wonton wrappers. “I’ve had fried wontons at many places, and they usually come with a pork filling. This time at a familiar eatery where I’d never ordered fried wontons before, the dish was just that: fried wontons, no filling, just crispy. “I wasn’t angry because the name wasn’t misleading, but it was not what I expected. In the end, I ate them all. No one’s at fault here, it’s just that what fried wontons mean can vary from place to place. P.S. This dish was 50 baht.” The post unleashed a torrent of reactions from the group’s members, many of whom criticized the high price for what is often a complimentary side dish at noodle shops or a cheap market find, where a large number of wonton wrappers can be purchased for deep-frying at home, reported Sanook. “Good heavens, that’s too pricey! Was it at some upscale location?” “Free wontons with noodles are more generous than this where I live.” “A pack of 20-30 wontons costs 50 baht, and you get around 100 pieces. Are these wrapped in gold?” “One baht per piece would be reasonable for such an offering.” “The wontons aren’t unusual, but the price sure is—outrageously high.” “Some noodle shops in my area give these away for free.” “In Sukhothai, noodle shops offer a basketful of wontons to scoop out at no cost, along with fried vegetables.” “At our place, we fry them and put up a sign saying ‘help yourself for free’ at the Yen Ta Fo shop.” “The price is steep; where did you eat this? I want to make sure I don’t go there.” The spirited exchange highlighted the varying expectations of street food cost and quantity, and whether the price should reflect not just the ingredients but also the preparation and service. While no consensus was reached, the incident has undoubtedly left both vendors and customers pondering the value of street-side delicacies. by Samantha Rose Picture courtesy of Sanook Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand heatwave causes car windows to explode by Samantha Rose Picture courtesy of Sanook Thailand’s scorching temperatures have led to an unusual phenomenon – exploding car windows, even when vehicles are parked in the shade. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324590-thailand-heatwave-causes-car-windows-to-explode/

Thailand’s scorching temperatures have led to an unusual phenomenon – exploding car windows, even when vehicles are parked in the shade. The issue sparked widespread discussion and debate among netizens, following viral images of a car with its driver’s side window shattered due to the intense heat. The advice circulating online suggests leaving car windows slightly open to allow hot air to escape, aiming to prevent such incidents. Jessada Denduangboripant, a lecturer from the Department of Biology at Chulalongkorn University, provided insight into this matter through a Facebook post. He explained that while heat can indeed cause car windows to shatter, various potential causes need to be examined on a case-by-case basis. The image in question showed a side window, which, like the rear window of a car, is made of tempered glass, as opposed to the laminated glass used for windshields. Each reacts differently to impact. Tempered glass can shatter due to stress cracks, making it possible for a car parked in extreme heat to experience a sudden change in temperature (from hot to cold) that can cause the glass to break. Such incidents are not uncommon. For example, a car left in the blazing sun might have its windows crack when the driver returns and immediately turns the air conditioning to full blast, cools it with cold water, or if it’s suddenly hit by rain. Pre-existing minor cracks or air pockets within the glass layers can lead to disproportionate contraction and expansion, resulting in breakage. Falling objects However, the primary cause of shattered car windows is often an impact from falling objects. Before jumping to conclusions, it’s advisable to check the surroundings for heavy fruits, branches, or even pets like cats that could have fallen on the vehicle. Pre-existing damage, like unnoticed chips from flying debris, increases the likelihood of the glass shattering. To determine whether a crack is a stress crack, one should look for the absence of impact points or contact marks on the broken window. Older vehicles or those that have been involved in collisions may have structural deformities that put extra pressure on the windows, making them more prone to breakage. Conversely, a new car experiencing window breakage could be due to manufacturing or structural faults, requiring a check from the dealership, reported Sanook. Jessada also offered tips to prevent car windows from shattering: Avoid parking in direct sunlight for extended periods, as this accelerates wear and tear on the vehicle. Regularly inspect the car for any signs of damage on the windows and body, which could create pressure on the glass. Before using a car that has been parked in the sun, open the windows slightly to let out the hot air, then gradually cool the interior with air conditioning. Install quality heat-filtering window films to not only reduce heat but also provide protection in the event of an accident. Steer clear of parking in areas prone to explosions, such as mines, demolition sites, military exercises, or near rocket launch pads and sonic boom zones, all of which can cause stress cracks. Do not leave items in the car that could explode when exposed to heat, such as lighters, spray cans, or power banks. By understanding the various factors that can lead to shattered car windows and taking preventive measures, drivers can better protect their vehicles from the unexpected consequences of Thailand’s intense heat. by Samantha Rose Picture courtesy of Sanook Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

UPDATE: Bangkok Port shipping scene sets sail for relocation by Mitch Connor OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA Picture courtesy of Wikapedia The Bangkok Port, located in the bustling Klong Toey district, is earmarked for a potential relocation, the Transport Ministry announced. Deputy Minister Manaporn Charoensri revealed plans for a feasibility study into the port’s relocation yesterday, to transform parts of the 32-rai site into a public park. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324482-bangkok-port-relocation-set-to-combat-pollution-and-congestion/?do=findComment&comment=18832122

Bangkok Port shipping scene sets sail for relocation by Mitch Connor OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA Picture courtesy of Wikapedia The Bangkok Port, located in the bustling Klong Toey district, is earmarked for a potential relocation, the Transport Ministry announced. Deputy Minister Manaporn Charoensri revealed plans for a feasibility study into the port’s relocation yesterday, to transform parts of the 32-rai site into a public park. Manaporn, responsible for overseeing the operations of the Port Authority of Thailand (PAT), shared that Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin had proposed during an April 2 Cabinet meeting, a partial relocation of Klong Toey port to the Laem Chabang Port in Chon Buri. The 62 year old prime minister’s order will be followed with the formation of a dedicated committee to examine the plan further. This relocation is complex, with multiple factors to consider, including existing lease agreements and employment contracts, Charoensri noted, referencing an initial survey conducted by the PAT. She reassured of the impact on industrial factories and oil refineries, stating that not the entire port would be shifted. Instead, the Bangkok-born PM has proposed methods to make optimal use of leftover space or areas currently misused by the community, aiming to alleviate traffic congestion in the vicinity. Some of this space, she indicated, might be redeveloped into a public park. Manaporn elaborated that the move to Laem Chabang Port could be beneficial from a developmental perspective. Due to the limitations of the Bangkok Port being non-deep-sea, a partial move to the deeper Laem Chabang would be more practical. PM Srettha further suggested exploring the possibility of transforming the port into a tourism hotspot. In line with this potential new direction, the PAT’s Director-General, Kriangkrai Chaisiriwongsuk, revealed that the port’s master development plan aims to elevate it to a green port. The intention is to enhance the quality of life for surrounding communities and residents while evolving the port into a tourist pier, complete with comprehensive logistics transportation services, reported Bangkok Post. Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe