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PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra Thanks Public After Topping Poll FILE - Leader of Pheu Thai Party, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, daughter of Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, wave before press conference in Bangkok, Thailand, Thursday, Aug. 15, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra expressed her gratitude to the public on Sunday after topping a quarterly poll conducted by the National Institute of Development Administration (Nida). Ms Paetongtarn secured 31.35% support, with respondents lauding her leadership and efforts to address the country's various challenges. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339400-pm-paetongtarn-shinawatra-thanks-public-after-topping-poll/

FILE - Leader of Pheu Thai Party, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, daughter of Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, wave before press conference in Bangkok, Thailand, Thursday, Aug. 15, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra expressed her gratitude to the public on Sunday after topping a quarterly poll conducted by the National Institute of Development Administration (Nida). Ms Paetongtarn secured 31.35% support, with respondents lauding her leadership and efforts to address the country's various challenges. Jirayu Huangsab, the prime minister’s adviser, conveyed Ms Paetongtarn's appreciation, noting that the success was attributed to the collaborative teamwork of government agencies. He stated that while the poll results reflected broad public approval, the prime minister urged all government bodies to stay committed to their promises aimed at alleviating poverty and improving the nation's overall well-being. Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut, leader of Thailand's People's Party (PP) and third in the Nida poll, downplayed the results, suggesting that such fluctuations in popularity are normal and often vary depending on the poll conductor. Nevertheless, he acknowledged that the feedback would be valuable in enhancing the party's performance. Elected as the leader of the PP following the dissolution of its predecessor, the Move Forward Party (MFP), Mr Natthaphong maintained that the party's engagement in House debates, particularly on Myanmar-related issues, had no bearing on its popularity. He also noted that the party's commitment to facts and community engagement remains steadfast. In response to questions about the influence of former MFP leader Pita Limjaroenrat, who was banned from politics following the MFP’s dissolution, Mr Natthaphong affirmed his own capability as a party leader, having led the PP to electoral success. He expressed confidence in his leadership ahead of his expected formal appointment as opposition leader this week. Mr Natthaphong indicated that the opposition plans to intensify its scrutiny of the government, ensuring accountability and transparency as they navigate through the political landscape, reported Bangkok Post. In the face of political ebb and flow, Ms Paetongtarn's recent poll victory serves as a reflection of her administration's ongoing efforts to connect with and address the needs of the Thai populace, setting a promising tone for her tenure ahead. -- 2024-09-30

Thai Airways Files Restructuring Plan: Eyes 2025 Relisting File photo by Laurent ERRERA from L'Union, France Thai Airways International (THAI) will submit its restructuring plan to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) on Monday. This move is crucial for the airline's exit from business rehabilitation, a process it has been navigating for the past four years. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339399-thai-airways-files-restructuring-plan-eyes-2025-relisting/

Thai Airways International (THAI) will submit its restructuring plan to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) on Monday. This move is crucial for the airline's exit from business rehabilitation, a process it has been navigating for the past four years. Chai Eamsiri, the airline's President, described the submission as the first step in revamping the organisation. The 2,000-page document encompasses business plans and aircraft procurement, aimed at restoring investor confidence post-rehabilitation. "We are confident it will bolster investors' confidence," Eamsiri said on Saturday. Most creditors have already shown support for the rehabilitation plan. The airline's restructuring strategy focuses on increasing investor confidence through an extensive capital restructuring, maintaining a strong cash flow, and potentially appointing a new committee if there is a change in shareholders. The plan includes converting debt into equity, offering shares to pre-rehabilitation shareholders, employees, and through private placements, expected in December. Following these steps, a formal request to exit the rehabilitation plan will be filed with the Central Bankruptcy Court after February. The airline aims to resume trading its shares by the second quarter of next year. Trading in THAI shares was suspended in May 2021 due to negative equity and compliance issues. The company was given until 2025 to address these challenges. Thai Airways had previously filed for bankruptcy protection, with a court-approved rehabilitation plan in place since October 2022. Total liabilities stood at 200 billion baht as of September 2020. As a part of its rehabilitation strategy, the airline has halved its workforce to around 10,000 and reduced its fleet from roughly 100 aircraft to 64. The company also capitalised on sales of aircraft and other assets, including its THAI Catering food division, reported Bangkok Post. Financial performance has shown improvement. In the first half of 2024, THAI reported a net profit of 2.7 billion baht, with revenue hitting 89.9 billion baht, a 14% increase compared to the previous year. Thai Airways remains optimistic that its meticulous planning and restructuring will help it exit from rehabilitation and mark a robust return to financial health. TOP: File photo by Laurent ERRERA from L'Union, France -- 2024-09-30

to continue: Thailand Live Monday 30 September 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1339398-thailand-live-monday-30-september-2024/

Close Call: Footage Captures Car Passing Over Collapsing Road in Phayao A major road collapse occurred in Phayao Province prompting urgent warnings for motorists traveling through the affected area. Residents described hearing a loud noise just before the ground gave way, and they rushed to stop vehicles from crossing the hazardous section. Footage from a car’s dashcam has surfaced, showing a vehicle narrowly escaping the road collapse. Full story : https://aseannow.com/topic/1339382-close-call-footage-captures-car-passing-over-collapsing-road-in-phayao/

Campaigners Urge Handout Recipients to Avoid Alcohol Amid Payout Uncertainty FILE photo Anti-drunk driving advocates are calling on recipients of the government’s 10,000-baht cash handout to avoid spending the funds on alcohol, warning that such purchases could lead to accidents and serious injuries. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339369-campaigners-urge-handout-recipients-to-avoid-alcohol-amid-payout-uncertainty/

Denmark Considers Importing Medications from Thailand and Asia to Cut Costs FILE photo courtesy: Wikimedia Denmark is exploring the possibility of importing medications from Thailand, India, and China to provide its citizens with more affordable pharmaceutical options, according to a report by ScandAsia. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339366-denmark-considers-importing-medications-from-thailand-and-asia-to-cut-costs

Rising Baht Sparks Fears of Another 'Tom Yam Kung' Crisis FILE photo Thailand - Prachai Leophairat, CEO of TPI Polene Public Company Limited, expressed concern over the rising value of the Thai baht and its potential economic impact, drawing parallels to the 1997 "Tom Yam Kung" crisis. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339373-rising-baht-sparks-fears-of-another-tom-yam-kung-crisis/

The DTV program has had a promising start, according to Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa. Although no official numbers have been released, social media bloggers estimate that between 1,500 and 2,500 visas have been issued in the first 10 weeks. Destination Thailand Visa Sparks Interest, Faces Future Hurdles Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339343-destination-thailand-visa-sparks-interest-faces-future-hurdles/

Thailand - Prachai Leophairat, CEO of TPI Polene Public Company Limited, expressed concern over the rising value of the Thai baht and its potential economic impact, drawing parallels to the 1997 "Tom Yam Kung" crisis. Prachai outlined 11 key risks associated with the strong baht. He emphasized that if the U.S. dollar's interest rate falls while Thailand's baht interest rate rises, the baht will appreciate. A 10% increase in the baht’s exchange rate combined with a 10% decrease in the dollar will raise production costs by 20%. This cost hike would make Thai products 20% more expensive than competitors, leading to a decline in primary goods and forcing secondary and tertiary industries to halt production. The potential consequences include: Factory closures Rising unemployment Reduced consumer spending Halted industrial investments Increased household and business debt Higher bank loan costs due to rising bad debt reserves Banks limiting loans to struggling businesses Reduced government tax revenues and budget cuts Lower government spending A shrinking GDP Declining foreign currency reserves Prachai warned that if exports don't increase and factories continue to close, Thailand might face a shortage of foreign currency reserves. This could lead to a repeat of the 1997 crisis, leaving the country vulnerable to foreign exploitation of its assets, reported Naew Na. Top: FILE photo -- 2024-09-30

The DTV program has had a promising start, according to Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa. Although no official numbers have been released, social media bloggers estimate that between 1,500 and 2,500 visas have been issued in the first 10 weeks. The main question now is what happens to DTV holders after their initial six-month stay, assuming they wish to remain in Thailand. A contributor to a popular Facebook group summed up the uncertainty: “How about we wait until December or January when the first DTV holders share their experiences and requirements for extensions?” By then, DTV holders will face two options: leave Thailand and reapply or seek an extension at local immigration for another 180 days. However, both options come with challenges. While the visa is valid for five years with multiple entries, the lack of clarity from immigration authorities has raised concerns about future extensions. Although the Tourism Authority of Thailand initially indicated that no additional documentation would be required for re-entry or extension, immigration officers may still request further paperwork at their discretion. The immigration bureau’s silence has led to speculation about potential abuses in the DTV application process. Some digital nomads, for instance, may be working for Thai clients without the necessary work permits. There are also questions about how far soft power has been extended, with activities like attending concerts or dental appointments potentially qualifying for long-term visa status. Thai embassies worldwide are issuing DTVs, but the requirements vary widely. Some embassies ask for a bank account with at least three months of activity, while others require a Thai guarantor or evidence of past work-related activities. Discrepancies in documentation, such as differing requirements for cookery classes or Thai boxing academy registrations, add to the confusion. For now, little is expected to change. If immigration officers start asking for more paperwork at airports and border posts, it could lead to daily delays. Meanwhile, the government is working to merge immigration databases, a process expected to take most of next year. A review of the non-immigrant visa categories is also underway, which could affect the DTV. "There is no doubt DTV will be reformed, and likely restricted, in the light of experience. But perhaps not in 2025," writes Barry Kenyon for Pattaya Mail. -- 2024-09-30

FILE photo Anti-drunk driving advocates are calling on recipients of the government’s 10,000-baht cash handout to avoid spending the funds on alcohol, warning that such purchases could lead to accidents and serious injuries. Phattarabhandhu Krissana, chairman of the Network of Victims Against Drunk Driving, emphasized the importance of using the handout for essential needs or investments. He noted that spending the money on alcohol could result in accidents, potentially causing disabilities for both recipients and others. The network, along with the Don’t Drive Drunk Foundation, is urging its members who receive the handout to allocate part of the funds for paying vehicle taxes, which help finance victim protection programs. Phattarabhandhu shared that some of the network’s 15,000 members had already received the handout during the first distribution phase, providing much-needed support during tough economic times. Thailand's government is currently disbursing the 10,000-baht payments to 12.4 million state welfare cardholders and 2.1 million people with disabilities. Priority has been given to vulnerable groups, with the final wave of payments expected on Monday. Originally conceived as part of a broader “digital wallet” stimulus program, the cash handout was intended to cover 45 million Thais aged 16 and over. However, concerns over funding have cast uncertainty on how many more people will receive the money and how much will be distributed in future rounds. A government source revealed that while the program is expected to continue, the second phase of handouts may see a reduction to 5,000 baht per person. This decrease is being considered to free up resources for flood victim relief, which has become a growing priority. The 2025 fiscal budget earmarked 152.7 billion baht for the handout scheme, but a portion of that may be redirected to the central fund to assist with flood recovery efforts. Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul noted that the spike in cash withdrawals following the program’s launch highlights the financial struggles of many recipients. He expressed optimism that their spending would help stimulate the economy. However, opposition MP Sirikanya Tansakun of the People’s Party criticized the reduced scale of the program, arguing that slashing the total budget from 500 billion baht to 145 billion baht would fall short of significantly boosting GDP . “Economic activity has not picked up as expected, and many business owners report that business remains slow despite the handout,” she added, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-09-30

Denmark is exploring the possibility of importing medications from Thailand, India, and China to provide its citizens with more affordable pharmaceutical options, according to a report by Scandasia. The initiative aims to broaden the range of medications available to Danes at potentially lower prices. However, it has sparked heated debate within Denmark and internationally. The Danish Pharmacy Association and the Danish Medicines Agency have raised concerns that the plan could compromise consumer safety. They warn that importing medications from Asia could make it easier to purchase drugs online without proper quality control. Critics stress the importance of maintaining stringent checks to ensure the efficacy of medications, despite the fact that many Asian manufacturers adhere to international standards. India and China are key global players in the pharmaceutical industry, producing a large share of the world’s generic drugs. Thailand, with its expanding pharmaceutical sector, is also increasingly supplying international markets, reported The Nation. Supporters of the initiative argue that leveraging these vast Asian markets could reduce costs and improve access for Danish consumers. The outcome of Denmark’s discussions may influence other European countries considering similar strategies to diversify pharmaceutical imports. Top FILE photo courtesy: Wikimedia -- 2024-09-30

Thai Businesses Battle Severe Flood Damage and Disruptions FILE photo courtesy: Siam Rath Businesses across Thailand's North and Northeast are reeling from severe floods, with ongoing heavy rains exacerbating the situation. Many companies are scrambling to implement relief measures and maintain operations amid the deluge. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339301-thai-businesses-battle-severe-flood-damage-and-disruptions/

Businesses across Thailand's North and Northeast are reeling from severe floods, with ongoing heavy rains exacerbating the situation. Many companies are scrambling to implement relief measures and maintain operations amid the deluge. Durbell Co Ltd, a distribution and warehouse arm of TCP Group, reported that most of its dealers affected by the floods are located near rivers. Arjaree Suwangool, Director of Corporate Affairs and Communications at TCP Group, announced that the company has launched flood relief efforts, helping affected stores relocate stocks to dry Durbell warehouses. Additionally, Durbell has pledged to accept returns of damaged TCP products and extend credit terms, alongside providing special discounts to impacted stores. Efforts to adjust logistics routes to accessible roads are also underway, with operations being closely monitored, particularly in severely affected areas like Chiang Rai's Mae Sai district. Similarly, Tops grocery stores, operated by Central Food Retail Co, has set up an operations team to monitor flooding in the North. While Tops outlets in the region remain undamaged, the company has initiated a financial aid programme and provided disaster relief bags to flood-affected staff members. In an effort to assist those struggling with damaged electrical appliances, Thai Samsung Electronics Co Ltd has launched a repair service offering free labour and discounted spare parts. This service is available in flood-hit provinces including Chiang Rai, Phayao, Nan, Phrae, and Sukhothai. The Thai Retailers Association estimates that the flood damage to the retail sector exceeds 1 billion baht. The association’s vice-president, Chatchai Tuongratanaphan, has called on the government to implement relief measures for retail operators. Proposed initiatives include a debt moratorium, corporate tax exemptions, extensions to the tax filing deadline, and reductions in employers' social security contribution rates. Furthermore, the association urges the government to prioritise sustainable water management through long-term planning to mitigate future disasters, reported Bangkok Post. With the floodwaters showing no signs of receding soon, the affected businesses continue their struggle, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive disaster management and support. FILE photo courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2024-09-28

Garbage piling up in Phuket amid tourism revival FILE photo for reference only Phuket, Thailand’s premier tourist destination, is grappling with an increasing garbage problem as tourism rebounds post-pandemic. The island welcomed 11 million local and foreign visitors last year, double the number from two decades ago. However, this tourism surge has led to an alarming rise in waste. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339297-garbage-piling-up-in-phuket-amid-tourism-revival/

Phuket, Thailand’s premier tourist destination, is grappling with an increasing garbage problem as tourism rebounds post-pandemic. The island welcomed 11 million local and foreign visitors last year, double the number from two decades ago. However, this tourism surge has led to an alarming rise in waste. Phuket's deputy governor, Norasak Suksomboon, disclosed that the daily garbage volume has surged to 1,100 tonnes, up from 742 tonnes in 2022 and 961 tonnes last year. This data, sourced from the provincial statistics office and Pollution Control Department, highlights a growing environmental concern. Speaking at the 25th Inter-Islands Tourism Policy Forum, which brought together 150 global tourism leaders and policymakers, Mr. Norasak underlined the sustainability challenges the province faces. He appealed to residents and volunteers to assist in managing this mounting waste, particularly by recycling and composting. Phuket, with a permanent resident population of 418,000 as of 2021, struggles to cope with the waste from both locals and an influx of external workers and tourists. The island's single incinerator, run by Phuket municipality, can handle only about 900 tonnes daily, forcing the remainder to be sent to various dumpsites. Alarmingly, only 10% of Phuket's trash is recycled, and 60% comprises organic waste. Mr. Norasak urged residents to transform organic waste into compost or soil improvers, reducing the reliance on disposal facilities. He emphasised that community involvement is crucial to address this pressing issue. Earlier this year, the municipality launched a "garbage bank" pilot project in Samakkee Samkong community, Muang district, aimed at recycling waste. If successful, this initiative will be expanded to other areas, offering a sustainable solution to the island’s growing waste problem. As Phuket continues to attract tourists, the province must balance economic gains with environmental stewardship to ensure a cleaner, more sustainable future. TOP: FILE photo for reference only -- 2024-09-28

Coffee Vendor Apologises After Tourist Incident, Shop Closed for 30 Days Picture courtesy: Siam Rath A coffee vendor at Rom Hup Market, Samut Songkhram, came under fire after a video surfaced showing him pushing and verbally abusing a Spanish tourist near the Maeklong Railway Station. The incident occurred at 8:30 a.m. on September 26, while tourists were visiting the famous Rom Hup Market as a train approached the station. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339293-coffee-vendor-apologises-after-tourist-incident-shop-closed-for-30-days/

A coffee vendor at Rom Hup Market, Samut Songkhram, came under fire after a video surfaced showing him pushing and verbally abusing a Spanish tourist near the Maeklong Railway Station. The incident occurred at 8:30 a.m. on September 26, while tourists were visiting the famous Rom Hup Market as a train approached the station. The video, captured by a tour guide, quickly went viral on social media, sparking widespread criticism of the vendor’s actions and concerns about the impact on Thailand’s tourism image. On September 27, Pol. Lt. Col. Anatchai Kontong, Chief of Tourist Police Station 2, and officers from Samut Songkhram conducted an investigation. It was confirmed that the altercation occurred in front of the “Pan Jang” coffee shop owned by Mr. James. The vendor was seen pushing the tourist away from the shop, which is situated on land owned by the State Railway of Thailand, not rented by Mr. James. Later, Mr. James was summoned by the railway authorities and the tourist police. He admitted his wrongdoing and recorded a video apology to the tourist and the people of Thailand for damaging the country’s tourism image. As a consequence, Maeklong Railway Station officials suspended his business operations for 30 days. They also warned that further misconduct could lead to the permanent revocation of his rights to operate in the area. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2024-09-28

PM Appoints Pol. Gen. Kittirat as Acting Chief of Police Effective 1 October 2024 Picture courtesy: Siam Rath In an urgent development, the Prime Minister has signed an appointment order assigning Pol. Gen. Kittirat Phanphet as the new acting Chief of Police. The decision comes as the current Commissioner-General, Pol. Gen. Torsak Sukwimol, is set to retire on 1 October 2024. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339291-pm-appoints-pol-gen-kittirat-as-acting-chief-of-police-effective-1-october-2024/

In an urgent development, the Prime Minister has signed an appointment order assigning Pol. Gen. Kittirat Phanphet as the new acting Chief of Police. The decision comes as the current Commissioner-General, Pol. Gen. Torsak Sukwimol, is set to retire on 1 October 2024. The announcement was made on 27 September 2024 by Pol. Lt. Gen. Yingyos Thepjamnong, Commander-in-Chief of the Central Investigation Bureau. The memorandum was sent to key officials within the Royal Thai Police hierarchy, including the Deputy Commissioner-General, Provincial Police Region 7, and other equivalent positions. Pol. Gen. Kittirat will assume his duties as acting Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police effective from 1 October 2024, stepping in to maintain stability and continuity in the leadership of the police force. This appointment is part of the Prime Minister's Office Order No. 335/2560, dated 26 September 2024, reported Siam Rath. This swift and decisive move ensures that there will be no disruption in the Royal Thai Police's top leadership, enabling the organization to continue its critical work seamlessly. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2024-09-28

Homeless Group Celebrates with 10,000 Baht Wallet Aid, Buys Alcohol Picture courtesy: Daily News Residents of Nonthaburi are calling for government intervention after a group of homeless individuals used their digital wallet funds, totaling 10,000 baht, to buy alcohol. The intoxicated group then defecated in public, causing distress due to the foul odor. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339289-homeless-group-celebrates-with-10000-baht-wallet-aid-buys-alcohol/

Residents of Nonthaburi are calling for government intervention after a group of homeless individuals used their digital wallet funds, totaling 10,000 baht, to buy alcohol. The intoxicated group then defecated in public, causing distress due to the foul odor. A Facebook user recently posted images of human feces under the Rama IV Bridge in Pak Kret, Nonthaburi, complaining about the issue and urging authorities to address it. The situation has reportedly persisted for some time due to the presence of numerous homeless individuals in the area. On September 27, reporters visited the scene and confirmed the presence of human waste, as previously reported. A homeless man, visibly intoxicated and soiled with feces, was found sleeping in a nearby parking lot. Attempts to communicate with him were unsuccessful, as locals confirmed he had a communication disability. Residents noted that after receiving funds from the government’s digital wallet program, a group of 4-5 homeless individuals regularly gathered in the area to drink alcohol. Mr. Sane Kotasombat, a 61-year-old motorcycle taxi driver, expressed frustration, saying the vagrants didn’t disturb anyone with noise but their public defecation created discomfort for passersby. He urged the authorities to intervene, as most of the individuals in question were mute and used sign language to communicate, reported Daily News. Mr. Surachai Sukklam, another motorcycle taxi driver, echoed these concerns. He noted that the group often drank in the area and urinated nearby, creating an unpleasant environment. Despite previous attempts by the Pak Kret municipality to resolve the issue, the problem persists. Locals are requesting that authorities take appropriate action to resolve the situation. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-09-28

Thai tax riddle: Elite Visa holders off the hook? by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Thailand Privilege Card Whispers on Facebook’s Elite/Privilege Group suggest that holders of the controversial five to 20 years visa could dodge the Thai Revenue Department’s (TRD) new tax ruling. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339286-thai-tax-riddle-elite-visa-holders-off-the-hook/