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Surat Thani - A Russian man and an Israeli woman were arrested at a café on the Pha Ngan Island in Surat Thani after they allegedly hired illegal Myanmar workers. The Surat Thani Immigration told the Phuket Express that earlier this week they arrested MS. YAARA, 35, an Israeli national and MR. BORIS, 46, a Russian national at a café on the Pha Ngan Island. Officers also arrested six illegal Myanmar workers who were found working at the café. They were taken to the Koh Pha Ngan Police Station. By Goongnang Suksawat Source: THE PHUKET EXPRESS -- 2024-11-18

Escaped Monkeys Cause Mayhem at Thai Police Station in Lop Buri Picture courtesy: TNA-MCOT In a bizarre turn of events, approximately 200 monkeys broke free from their enclosure at the Pho Khao Ton Monkey Nursery, located in Lop Buri's Muang district, Thailand, and made their way to the nearby Tha Hin police station. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343835-escaped-monkeys-cause-mayhem-at-thai-police-station-in-lop-buri/

Picture courtesy: TNA-MCOT In a bizarre turn of events, approximately 200 monkeys broke free from their enclosure at the Pho Khao Ton Monkey Nursery, located in Lop Buri's Muang district, Thailand, and made their way to the nearby Tha Hin police station. The curious incident unfolded on Saturday evening, causing significant commotion and surprising both residents and law enforcement officers. The nursery, which houses about 300 monkeys captured from Lop Buri's bustling streets, faced an unforeseen challenge when the cage structure failed to contain its lively inhabitants. According to police reports, the monkeys managed to rock the cage with such intensity that it ultimately gave way, paving the path for their great escape. Once free, the monkeys roamed into public areas, including local homes and the police station itself. Law enforcement officers were caught off guard as the cheeky creatures climbed into the building, setting off a light-hearted yet urgent operation to return them to their rightful home. In response to the escape, local authorities promptly repaired the broken cage, significantly bolstering its strength to prevent any future breakouts. By Sunday, about 40 of the escapees had voluntarily returned to the enclosure, lured back by the promise of food. The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) has since dispatched teams to track and recapture the remaining monkeys, ensuring their safe return to the nursery. The department emphasised that while the situation created a temporary stir, efforts are fully underway to restore order at the facility. This startling episode in Lop Buri serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of nature and the importance of maintaining secure habitats for wildlife in urban areas, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-11-18

UPDATE Foreign Husband of Suspect in Prosecutor’s Mother Murder Case Detained & Questioned Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Rayong investigators have detained and questioned the foreign husband of a woman accused in the murder and robbery of the mother-in-law of a prosecutor. The arrest occurred after officers raided the suspect’s home in Sriracha, Chonburi Province, seeking additional evidence. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343759-woman-found-dead-in-palm-plantation-identified-as-prosecutor’s-mother-in-law/#findComment-19387763

Thailand Rises to 41st in Global Innovation Index ASEAN NOW file Thailand has achieved its highest position in the Global Innovation Index (GII) in a decade, climbing to 41st place among 133 economies, as reported by the National Innovation Agency (NIA). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343792-thailand-rises-to-41st-in-global-innovation-index/

Lax Law Enforcement Cited for Alarming Road Fatalities in Thailand File photo Advocates are raising concerns about insufficient enforcement of road safety laws, which they believe is significantly contributing to Thailand's staggering road fatality rate. On average, the country registers around 48 road deaths daily. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343791-lax-law-enforcement-cited-for-alarming-road-fatalities-in-thailand/

Immigration System Overhaul Underway at Suvarnabhumi Airport File photo courtesy: Matichon Thailand's Immigration Bureau (IB) announced plans to enhance services at Suvarnabhumi Airport, aiming to strike a balance between streamlined efficiency and national security. The changes will be driven by the development of the Thailand Immigration System (TIS), which aims to modernise the immigration process with advanced technology. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343790-immigration-system-overhaul-underway-at-suvarnabhumi-airport/

to continue: Thailand Live Monday 18 November 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1343780-thailand-live-monday-18-november-2024/

File photo courtesy: Matichon Thailand's Immigration Bureau (IB) announced plans to enhance services at Suvarnabhumi Airport, aiming to strike a balance between streamlined efficiency and national security. The changes will be driven by the development of the Thailand Immigration System (TIS), which aims to modernise the immigration process with advanced technology. Discussing this initiative, Pol Maj Gen Choengron Rimpadee, head of Immigration Division 2, emphasised the importance of integrating faster services for the anticipated influx of passengers. With prior experience in managing immigration at five key international airports, Maj Gen Choengron is well-placed to lead these improvements. With Suvarnabhumi currently accommodating an average of 120,000 passengers daily, projections for peak season suggest this number could rise to 135,000. Hence, the need for additional staff and resources is pressing, following the Prime Minister's recent visit highlighting the issue of congestion. To address these challenges, new systems have been introduced to reduce the processing time per passenger from 1-2 minutes to approximately 45 seconds. The elimination of certain steps, such as manually entering flight data, will contribute to these efficiencies. As a result, the total waiting time, including queuing, is expected to be under 20 minutes. The planned roll-out of the Advanced Passenger Processing System (APPS) further aims to bolster security by flagging individuals wanted internationally before they even reach passport control. Looking ahead, the IB aims to complete the TIS within two years, integrating AI for enhanced security measures. Automatic channels mirroring those at Singapore’s Changi Airport could further streamline processes. While these technological upgrades promise speedier services, the dedication to national safety remains paramount, with immigration officers keeping vigilant to prevent potential threats, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-11-18

File photo Advocates are raising concerns about insufficient enforcement of road safety laws, which they believe is significantly contributing to Thailand's staggering road fatality rate. On average, the country registers around 48 road deaths daily. Speaking at a recent event marking the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims, advocates pressed for immediate improvements in law enforcement. The event, supported by the Thai Health Promotion Foundation at the Bangkok Art and Cultural Centre, threw light on Thailand's grim statistics. Last year alone, 17,498 people lost their lives in traffic accidents, illustrating a dire need for changes to road safety regulations. Surachai Liengboonlertchai, who chairs a parliamentary road safety subcommittee, stressed the importance of remembering victims and pushing for systemic changes to prevent future tragedies. The call for action is echoed by Ratchanee Supawatjariyakul, president of the Road Traffic Accident Victims Empowerment Network, who has personally been affected by these statistics. She lost her daughter to a road accident involving an off-duty police officer in early 2022. Advocates argue for tougher amendments to the Land Traffic Act and the Vehicles Act to deter violators through harsher penalties and faster legal processes. Revising how driver's licences are issued, with more stringent tests, is also recommended. Key proposals include capping speed limits in urban areas at 50 km/h, increasing fines for motorists who neglect pedestrian crossings, and penalising motorcyclists who invade pavements. Additionally, tighter penalties for drink-driving offenders are urged to include both imprisonment and fines. Joining the discourse, Dr Withid Sariddeechaikool of the Food and Drug Administration cautioned drivers against medications that impair alertness, contributing to Thailand's ranking as having the ninth-highest rate of road traffic accidents globally. Such holistic attempts aim to curb the nation’s distressing road fatality statistics effectively, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-11-18

ASEAN NOW file Thailand has achieved its highest position in the Global Innovation Index (GII) in a decade, climbing to 41st place among 133 economies, as reported by the National Innovation Agency (NIA). This marks a notable improvement from last year's 43rd position and solidifies Thailand's third place among ASEAN countries, following Singapore and Malaysia. The GII, developed by the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO), assesses countries' innovation capabilities using around 80 indicators, grouped into inputs and outputs. The top innovators globally include Switzerland, Sweden, and the United States, with Singapore leading in ASEAN. Thailand's enhanced ranking is attributed to significant improvements in both input and output sub-indexes of innovation capability, indicating successful strategies in promoting innovation, according to Krithpaka Boonfueng, the NIA's executive director. Notably, the country excels in business system innovation indicators, particularly in gross domestic expenditure on research and development (GERD). However, Thailand still faces challenges in areas such as ICT service exports and education spending as a percentage of GDP. These sectors require more effort to enhance the country’s innovation landscape. Ms Krithpaka emphasised the need for greater government involvement in steering the national innovation agenda. Stronger partnerships between public sector researchers and private enterprises are vital to understanding and meeting market demands. To bolster these efforts, the Ministry of Commerce plans to promote collaborative initiatives between government and industry to further boost Thailand’s innovation capabilities. This alignment aims to harness the potential of Thailand’s innovation landscape and position it for continued growth on the global stage. The recent rise in the GII ranking reflects Thailand's commitment to fostering an environment conducive to innovation and development, paving the way for future achievements and enhanced global competitiveness, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-11-18

Picture courtesy of TMN. Australian Businesswoman’s Condo in Pattaya Robbed: Over 3 Million Baht Stolen Pattaya City Police received a report of a robbery at a luxury condominium in Soi 5, Pratumnak Hill, South Pattaya, Chonburi Province. The victim, a 40-year-old Australian businesswoman in real estate was left in shock after discovering her valuables worth over 3.5 million baht had been stolen. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343762-australian-businesswoman’s-condo-in-pattaya-robbed-over-3-million-baht-stolen/

Thai elderly to soon receive 10,000 baht cash aid: Finance Ministry Photo of Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand's Ministry of Finance is poised to introduce a one-time cash payment initiative targeting the elderly, as confirmed by Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343714-thai-elderly-to-soon-receive-10000-baht-cash-aid-finance-ministry/

Thailand's Ministry of Finance is poised to introduce a one-time cash payment initiative targeting the elderly, as confirmed by Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul. This proposal, amounting to 10,000 baht, will be presented during the upcoming economic stimulus policy committee meeting scheduled for Tuesday, November 19. This new measure specifically excludes state welfare cardholders and disabled individuals who previously received 10,000 baht in the initial phase of the consumption stimulus programme in late September. To access this financial aid, eligible recipients must register via the Tang Rat app, a government platform for disbursing funds. “The eligible age range will be determined by the committee, potentially starting from either 50 or 60.” Paopoom emphasised the rationale that older individuals possess diminished income-generating capabilities compared to other demographic groups. The deputy minister anticipates that this second phase will see fewer applicants compared to the initial phase, with disbursements likely occurring at the end of this year or early next year. For those lacking smartphone access, alternative registration methods will be made available, with further updates to follow. “All registered Thais will eventually receive the 10,000 baht payment, as the government has earmarked over 180 billion baht for this purpose.” Paopoom noted that the precise timing and conditions are still under review. Adjustments will be based on feedback from relevant agencies to ensure the effectiveness of the programme. The agenda for Tuesday’s meeting will feature a presentation by the Finance Ministry outlining a comprehensive framework for stimulus measures. This framework aims to address short-, medium-, and long-term strategies, ensuring a holistic approach to economic stimulation across various sectors, reported Bangkok Post. Photo of Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-16

Thief caught after stealing historic sword from Bangkok temple by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A notorious thief was apprehended after stealing a revered sword belonging to King Taksin from a renowned temple in Thonburi, Bangkok. The suspect, claiming self-defence intentions, was not believed by police who suspected a different motive. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343712-thief-caught-after-stealing-historic-sword-from-bangkok-temple/

A notorious thief was apprehended after stealing a revered sword belonging to King Taksin from a renowned temple in Thonburi, Bangkok. The suspect, claiming self-defence intentions, was not believed by police who suspected a different motive. The incident occurred at Wat Intharam Worawihan, situated in Bang Yi Ruea, Thonburi, where the sword went missing on Wednesday, November 13. CCTV footage revealed a slender man dressed in a long-sleeved military camouflage shirt and blue trousers entering the temple’s sanctuary at 2.39pm. He reached over the altar, took the 2.5-foot sword with a red hilt, and tucked it into his left trouser leg before disappearing from view. Chanporn, a 35 year old coffee vendor operating a sidecar café in front of the temple, explained that she typically works from Tuesday to Sunday, taking Mondays off. She noted that the temple is quite deserted on weekdays, suggesting that the theft likely occurred then. “From the CCTV clip, I think the person might not be in their right mind. A normal person wouldn’t dare do such a thing.” The temple staff recounted that no one noticed the theft initially. It was only when they went to clean the sanctuary before closing it for the day that they realised the sword was missing. Upon reviewing the CCTV footage, they discovered the theft. Bang Yi Ruea police successfully apprehended 46 year old Wanchai, also known as Dam, yesterday, November 15, along with the stolen sword. He was caught outside a scrapyard in the Sala Nam Yen Market located on Sutthawat Road, Ban Chang Lo, Bangkok Noi. Photo courtesy of Matichon Initially, Wanchai confessed to the theft, claiming self-defence as his reason for taking the sword. However, police were sceptical of his claim, suspecting he intended to sell the item. The scrapyard refused to purchase the sword as it was not considered an antique. Wanchai, along with the evidence, was subsequently charged and taken into custody. The police suspicion that Wanchai planned to sell the sword rather than use it for self-defence stems from the location of his arrest. The scrapyard, known for dealing in non-antique items, was an unlikely place for someone seeking protection through a historic sword. The police’s disbelief was further fuelled by the unusual nature of the theft itself, as the sword holds significant cultural value and is not the typical item someone would steal for personal defence. The theft has sparked conversations about the security of historical artefacts in public spaces, particularly in temples that are both cultural landmarks and active places of worship. The incident underscores the need for enhanced vigilance and security measures to protect such valuable items from opportunistic theft, reported KhaoSod. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-16

Thailand Considers Law Revisions to Attract Foreign Real Estate Investment Picture courtesy: Kapook Thailand is actively considering changes to its real estate laws to encourage foreign investment, as outlined by Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343708-thailand-considers-law-revisions-to-attract-foreign-real-estate-investment/

Picture courtesy: Kapook Thailand is actively considering changes to its real estate laws to encourage foreign investment, as outlined by Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira. The potential amendments aim to revise the "rights over leasehold assets" laws, offering more attractive lease agreements that could bolster the nation's economy. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to draw foreign investors, improving Thailand's economic growth, which has been sluggish and hampered by increasing household debt. The real estate industry is crucial to Thailand's economy, influencing various related sectors. As domestic purchasing power diminishes, the government led by Paetongtarn Shinawatra, aims to adopt ideas from previous administrations to allow foreigners to invest in Thai real estate. Current Thai laws restrict foreign ownership of land, presenting a political challenge. Thaksin Shinawatra, a key figure in the governing party, previously suggested that land sold to foreigners should first transfer to state management under the Treasury Department. This proposal would let foreigners lease the land for up to 99 years, keeping land ownership with the state after lease expiry. Implementing such measures would require amendments to existing state land laws. To further entice foreign investment, there's a move to extend lease terms from the current maximum of 30 years to 99 years. This extension could make investments more appealing. In April 2023, the cabinet directed ministries to explore these longer lease terms, and by June, tasked the Interior Ministry with advancing these proposals. Thailand's 2019 Rights Over Leasehold Assets Act currently allows lease terms from 3 to 30 years. These rights enable the transfer and use of property as collateral, yet the law hasn't been fully utilised or integrated into the market as intended. Revised laws could better define and expand these leasehold rights, aligning them more closely with international standards and encouraging real estate investment. In comparison, countries like England, Wales, France, and Cambodia have their own special lease laws, allowing long-term leases and granting tenants greater rights. These models provide insights for Thailand as it seeks to modernise its approach to leasehold real estate, making it a more competitive and attractive market for international investors, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-11-16

Thailand Cracks Down on Foreigners Using Thai Nominees Image composite courtesy: MGR online Thailand is taking decisive action against foreign businesses using Thai nominees to conduct operations within the country. The Commerce Ministry has unveiled a new plan spearheaded by Deputy Commerce Minister Napintorn Srisunpang. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343707-thailand-cracks-down-on-foreigners-using-thai-nominees/

Image composite courtesy: MGR online Thailand is taking decisive action against foreign businesses using Thai nominees to conduct operations within the country. The Commerce Ministry has unveiled a new plan spearheaded by Deputy Commerce Minister Napintorn Srisunpang. This initiative aims to tackle illegal business practices that undermine local economic interests. The Ministry's subcommittee on nominee business prevention and suppression held significant discussions on Wednesday, bringing together several agencies to brainstorm strategies for identifying and prosecuting companies engaged in these unlawful practices. Key representatives from several agencies attended, including the Department of Business Development (DBD), Department of Special Investigation, Central Investigation Bureau, Anti-Money Laundering Office (Amlo), Tourist Police Bureau, Immigration Office, Department of Employment, Department of Tourism, Department of Lands, and Revenue Department. Together, they crafted a comprehensive strategy, proposing short-, medium-, and long-term measures for the cabinet's approval. In the immediate term, existing laws will be utilised to scrutinise and take legal action against suspect businesses, explained Mr Napintorn. Moving forward, the DBD plans to build an analytical system to detect nominee use by examining unusual business behaviour. This medium-term solution aims for completion in six months, adding an extra layer of vigilance by practising stricter law enforcement. Looking to the future, the ministry is contemplating amendments to Amlo's laws, permitting the DBD to reject or cancel business registrations tied to money laundering risks. Proposed changes to the Foreign Business Act could increase penalties, hoping to deter nominee practices altogether. Driven by numerous complaints against foreign businesses flouting Thai laws, the DBD is expanding its investigations. Particular attention is on online platforms, warehousing, and logistics sectors. The penalties for nominees could include imprisonment and hefty fines. With this proactive stance, Mr Napintorn emphasised the government's determination to safeguard the Thai economy. He encouraged those involved in nominee practices to cease activities and cooperate with authorities, ensuring protection for compliant witnesses, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-11-16

Thailand Introduces QR Code System to Combat Tax Evasion on Cigarettes Picture courtesy: Thai Government The Excise Department of Thailand has launched the "QR Cigarette" system, a high-tech solution to track and trace cigarette products and combat tax evasion. Deputy Finance Minister Dr. Paopoom Rojanasakul unveiled the system on 15 November 2024 at the Tobacco Authority of Thailand in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343691-thailand-introduces-qr-code-system-to-combat-tax-evasion-on-cigarettes/

Picture courtesy: Thai Government The Excise Department of Thailand has launched the "QR Cigarette" system, a high-tech solution to track and trace cigarette products and combat tax evasion. Deputy Finance Minister Dr. Paopoom Rojanasakul unveiled the system on 15 November 2024 at the Tobacco Authority of Thailand in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province. The innovative system uses QR codes on excise stamps, allowing officials and the public to verify whether tobacco products comply with tax regulations. By scanning the QR code, users can access detailed product information, such as brand, manufacturer, tax payment date, shipping location, and price. This ensures that consumers can confirm the authenticity and legality of their purchases. Products with inconsistent or missing data should be avoided, as they may be counterfeit and pose health risks. Dr. Paopoom highlighted that the excise stamps feature advanced anti-counterfeiting technology similar to that used in banknote printing. Each stamp includes a unique QR code and serial number to enhance transparency and traceability. This approach aligns with international standards and bolsters tax collection efficiency. The QR Cigarette system contributes to creating a comprehensive big data platform, aiding the Excise Department in policy-making and enforcement. Additionally, it enables public participation in monitoring the market, fostering confidence in the quality and safety of tobacco products. Consumers can report suspicious items directly to the department via a built-in alert feature on their mobile devices. Picture courtesy: Thai Government The initiative supports Thailand's governance and transparency policies under the Excise Department's ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) strategy, aiming to promote economic growth while addressing environmental and social concerns. Dr. Paopoom emphasised that the system represents a significant step towards modernising the country's tax administration and ensuring public safety. -- 2024-11-16

Police ‘sidecar’ into bust: Drug suspect nabbed in undercover sting by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Matichon Police officers in disguise successfully apprehended a major drug suspect by blending seamlessly into the local community. Disguised as locals, they rode a sidecar motorcycle to the suspect’s home, where they arrested him without raising suspicion. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343702-police-‘sidecar’-into-bust-drug-suspect-nabbed-in-undercover-sting/

Police officers in disguise successfully apprehended a major drug suspect by blending seamlessly into the local community. Disguised as locals, they rode a sidecar motorcycle to the suspect’s home, where they arrested him without raising suspicion. Officers from the Elephant Warriors unit of the 434th Border Patrol Police Company in Phatthalung, led by Yothaphon Rungsawat, orchestrated the arrest. The team disguised themselves as ordinary villagers, donning simple gardening clothes and using a sidecar motorcycle to approach the residence of Jarint Kongklai, a 28 year old suspect in a drug-related case. Intelligence had revealed that Jarint had returned to stay at his home in Moo 13, Ban Chai Han, Khok Sai subdistrict, Pa Bon district, prompting the officers to execute their plan. The police aimed to blend in with the local environment to avoid arousing any suspicion. Their choice of a sidecar motorcycle was strategic, as it is a common mode of transportation in the area, thus ensuring that their approach appeared routine. Upon reaching the suspect’s house, they found Jarint sound asleep, unaware of the impending arrest, as the motorcycle made no unusual noise to alert him. The officers surrounded the house and woke him up to present the arrest warrant. Initially, Jarint resisted arrest, requesting to see his mother first. However, he eventually conceded to the police. His mother, upon learning of the arrest, was quoted saying, “This time, let him stay inside for a long time.” His criminal history is extensive, starting in 2016 with a drug case at Hat Yai Police Station, followed by another drug case in 2019 at Rattaphum Police Station. In 2022, he was involved in a theft case at Pa Bon Police Station, reported KhaoSod. In 2024, he faced yet another drug-related case at Pa Bon Police Station. Jarint has served time twice in different prisons, first being released from Nonthaburi Provincial Prison in 2020, and most recently from Phatthalung Central Prison in 2023 for a theft conviction. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Matichon Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-16

Police arrest Sisaket man for firearms and drugs possession by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Police successfully conducted a crime crackdown during the Loy Krathong festival, seizing firearms and ammunition. On the day of the operation, officers arrested a 45 year old Thai man, at his residence in Huai Chan subdistrict, Khun Han district, Sisaket province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343698-police-arrest-sisaket-man-for-firearms-and-drugs-possession/