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NHSO Launches Investigation into Bangkok Healthcare Complaints File photo for reference only The National Health Security Office (NHSO) in Bangkok is forming a team to investigate a surge in alleged malpractices at the city’s primary healthcare clinics. The move comes as a response to the 3,771 complaints that have been reported. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326298-nhso-launches-investigation-into-bangkok-healthcare-complaints/

The National Health Security Office (NHSO) in Bangkok is forming a team to investigate a surge in alleged malpractices at the city’s primary healthcare clinics. The move comes as a response to the 3,771 complaints that have been reported. The complaints started coming in after the NHSO adjusted their universal healthcare service to mitigate overcrowding issues at the city’s hospitals. According to Dr Suphan Srithamma, head of the committee on quality and standard control for public health services, the concerns of the service recipients would be addressed according to the health security office law. In 2022, the NHSO implemented a policy, OP Anywhere, that allowed universal healthcare cardholders to access outpatient care at any national hospital during emergencies. However, a recent amendment now requires cardholders to first visit a primary healthcare clinic and can only go to a hospital if necessary. The majority of complaints (3,020 cases) since February 27 have been directed at primary healthcare clinics. Other complaints target transferred hospitals (462 cases) and public health centres (289 cases). Common issues include denial of requests for hospital transfers and failures to issue the correct transfer documents. The 30-baht healthcare scheme in the capital may also face difficulties as many private hospitals have withdrawn from the project due to resource and manpower shortages. However, Dr Srithamma assures that after the investigation is complete, the NHSO will address all findings to ensure clarity and accuracy. TOP: File photo for reference only -- 2024-05-01 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Two Thai Workers Honoured on Taiwan's Labour Day Picture of Teerasit Kiboonma (left) and Worapot Boonliem courtesy of Bangkok Post Two Thai nationals received employee awards during Taiwan's annual Labour Day ceremony, and were granted an audience with Taiwan’s President, Tsai Ing-wen. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326296-two-thai-workers-honoured-on-taiwans-labour-day/

Two Thai nationals received employee awards during Taiwan's annual Labour Day ceremony, and were granted an audience with Taiwan’s President, Tsai Ing-wen. The awards, hosted by the Taiwanese Ministry of Labour, cover both local and international workers who have made significant contributions in various sectors. This year, the two Thai males won awards in the manufacturing industry. The honourees, 44-year-old Worapot Boonliem and 62-year-old Teerasit Kiboonma, both from Lampang, were praised by Labour Minister Pipat Ratchakitprakarn for their work ethic, kindness, and excellent performance. Pipat also noted that Taiwan is a popular destination for Thai workers due to high demand. As an additional measure, Pipat announced a new initiative that will cover travel expenses for 50 Thai workers to Taiwan for employment. He expressed hopes that the award-winning employees will have paved the way for more Thai workers in Taiwan. In a separate incident, a Thai woman recently travelled from Taiwan to Thailand to confront her husband and his mistress, resulting in a violent confrontation in Roi Et province. TOP Picture of Teerasit Kiboonma (left) and Worapot Boonliem courtesy of Bangkok Post -- 2024-05-01 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Foreign Tourist Robbed of Gold Necklace While Asleep on Pattaya Street Picture courtesy of The Pattaya News A Laotian tourist, Detnakhon Inthakoummane, aged 37, reported being robbed of his 80,000 baht gold necklace while sleeping off intoxication on a street in Pattaya early Wednesday morning, May 1. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326294-foreign-tourist-robbed-of-gold-necklace-while-asleep-on-pattaya-street/

A Laotian tourist, Detnakhon Inthakoummane, aged 37, reported being robbed of his 80,000 baht gold necklace while sleeping off intoxication on a street in Pattaya early Wednesday morning, May 1. After a late-night drinking session and against his companions' advice, Mr. Detnakhon decided to walk back to his accommodations. Feeling tired, he fell asleep on a footpath. Upon waking up, he discovered his gold necklace was missing and swiftly reported it to the police. CCTV footage revealed a thin, tall man in biker attire. The man was seen observing the sleeping Detnakhon and later returning without his vest to rob him of his necklace. Pattaya police have been asked to expedite the investigation in order to bring the offender to justice. This incident highlights an ongoing issue in Pattaya where gold necklace theft is frequent among foreign tourists. Last year, similar robberies targeting two Indian men were reported. Police advise tourists to avoid displaying flashy jewelry and to stay alert, especially when under the influence. TOP Picture courtesy of The Pattaya News -- 2024-05-01 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Distracted Driving Causes Fatal Collision in Lampang Picture courtesy of Istock for reference only A fatal road accident occurred in Lampang today, when a woman dropped her phone while driving. Her attention diverted, she swerved, causing a head-on collision with a sedan. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326290-distracted-driving-causes-fatal-collision-in-lampang/

A fatal road accident occurred in Lampang today, when a woman dropped her phone while driving. Her attention diverted, she swerved, causing a head-on collision with a sedan. The impact instantly killed the male driver and injured a 19-year-old passenger. The incident took place in the district of Hang Chat, near the Rai Na Ngern market. Upon arrival, police found a silver Honda sedan with Chai Nat plates. The young passenger with a head injury and several bruises was quickly attended by the Wiang Tal municipal rescue team and taken to Hang Chat Hospital. The sedan's driver, a man between 40 and 45 years old from Chai Nat, was found dead and trapped inside the vehicle. The Lampang Rescue Association was called in to help remove the body. The other vehicle involved was a pickup truck registered in Lampang. The driver, a woman, sustained minor injuries and admitted to retrieving her dropped phone when the accident occurred. She was taken in by law enforcement for further investigation as the scene continues to be examined. The authorities aim to understand the complete sequence of events leading to the deadly crash and determine appropriate legal action based on their findings. The Wiang Tal municipal rescue team provided emergency support at the crash site. Picture courtesy of Istock for reference only -- 2024-05-01 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Noisy Unlicensed Pattaya Villa Shut Down, Peace Restored for Locals File photo for reference only. Pattaya authorities conducted a raid of a noisy, unlicensed pool villa following residents’ complaints about continual loud music and parties. The raid, which took place yesterday evening, signified a return to peace for the local community. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326289-noisy-unlicensed-pattaya-villa-shut-down-peace-restored-for-locals/

Pattaya authorities conducted a raid of a noisy, unlicensed pool villa following residents’ complaints about continual loud music and parties. The raid, which took place yesterday evening, signified a return to peace for the local community. Weekit Manarojkit, the Banglamung District Chief, ordered his deputy, Pornchai Sang-iad, to lead official action against the villa, situated within the Banglamung district's Nongprue sub-district, Soi Thappraya 15. The raid was carried out covertly with Sang-iad posing as a tourist who booked accommodation for 10 people inside the villa for a nightly rate of 4,999 baht. He used marked banknotes to pay the housekeeper; once payment was accepted, he revealed his true identity. The shocked housekeeper was taken to the Banglamung District Office, facing accusations of violating the Hotel Act B.E. 2547. This law prohibits the operation of any hotel without a license. Penalties include a fine of up to 20,000 baht, a one-year jail sentence or both. An additional daily fine of up to 10,000 baht may be applied if the violation continues. Authorities are persistently trying to identify the villa's owner to initiate further legal proceedings. A local resident anonymously revealed the villa's constant noisy disturbances. Sang-iad confirmed that the villa operation without a license led to its shutdown. He stated, "We are now working to identify the owner," emphasizing the need for law enforcement in such scenarios. The quick actions by the authorities display their dedication to maintaining law and order, responding to local disturbances, and enforcing consequences for businesses operating without the necessary legal permits. File photo for reference only. -- 2024-05-01 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Wage Hike Postponement Leaves Low-Income Earners Disappointed File photo Facebook NNT The Thai government's delay in implementing a promised wage increase has caused uproar among workers who will have to wait until October for the minimum wage to rise to 400 baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326287-thai-wage-hike-postponement-leaves-low-income-earners-disappointed/

The Thai government's delay in implementing a promised wage increase has caused uproar among workers who will have to wait until October for the minimum wage to rise to 400 baht. The decision comes as a particular blow in light of the salary increases planned for white-collar government workers and retirees, following Labor Day. Critics argue this approach distorts the labor market and offers little benefit for workers in low income brackets. Economist Assoc Prof Dr. Kiriya Kulkolkarn at Bangkok's Thammasat University suspects a political motive behind the measures. She contends that the recent, marginal wage increases have had little impact on the economy. Instead, she suggests alternative government strategies, such as controlling commodity prices, subsidizing necessities, and offering low-income families financial support. The current minimum wage in Thailand, ranging from 330 to 370 baht, is already higher than that of surrounding countries, but falls short of meeting the needs of its workforce. In order to compete with higher-skilled regional competitors, Kiriya urges upskilling of Thai workers, particularly in digital fields. Concerns have been raised about the potential for workforce downsizing in response to a higher minimum wage; Kiriya confirms small and medium businesses may be particularly affected. Aggressive moves to form labor unions and negotiate for improved labor conditions could offset these challenges. However, obstacles still exist, particularly around employment through subcontractors and the emerging gig economy which often circumvent labor-protection laws. Lastly, Sia Jampathong, a MP from the Move Forward Party, expressed his disappointment at the rejection of the labor-protection bill he proposed, which sought to limit work hours, guarantee annual leave, and extend labor protections to gig-economy workers. In contrast, Parliament approved a different labor bill seeking to extend paid maternity leave. File photo Facebook NNT -- 2024-05-01 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Wednesday 1 May 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326285-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-wednesday-1-may-2024/

A 58 year old drug courier from ‘Khon Kaen’ was arrested after around 500, thousand speed pills were found hidden on the underside of his vehicle near Chiang Mai yesterday. The vehicle was travelling from the Thai - Myanmar border area when police stopped the vehicle, Officers noticed the driver acting suspiciously which prompted them to take the vehicle in for a thorough check. The Industry Ministry has suspended transport of toxic cadmium waste indefinitely after A mobile crane's chain broke as it was moving a bag of cadmium waste to a vehicle at a warehouse in Taak province. The waste is due to be buried at a permanent site owned by the company called Bound & Beyond’ The Air Force is demanding 3 billion baht in compensation from The Airports of Thailand company for the proposed use of the Golf Course, which is located between the runways at Don Mueang international airport. The ‘A.O.T’ president, said the takeover of the golf course is necessary to ensure safety, adding that golfers have breached restrictions by driving golf carts across the taxi ways! However the air force insisted the course is safe and suggested A.O.T pay the air force 3 billion baht for a 30 year lease. The minister of labour announced that an increase in the national minimum daily wage may be delayed until October. There had been speculation that the increase would come into effect today, however a committee has yet to finalize the conditions of the increase and is due to discuss the proposed wage hike in two weeks time. Around the region In Indonesia, A remote volcano erupted several times yesterday a and sent a tower of ash more than 5km into the sky. Authorities ordered around 12 thousand people to evacuate due to the threat of a tsunami from debris sliding into the sea. WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: sunny, 41C Bangkok: Sunny, partly cloudy, 39C Pattaya: Sunny, 35C Phuket and the south: Sunny partly cloudy 34C Hua Hin: Sunny partly cloudy, 36C AQIYellow to Orange, moderate to high 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 2024-05-01 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Koh Larn Water Shortage Worsens Amid Heat Wave File photo for reference only. Thailand's island of Koh Larn, just off Pattaya's coast, is grappling with severe water scarcity due to an ongoing heat wave. Inhabitants and tourists alike struggle with a shortage of clean, drinkable water, as the supply fails to meet burgeoning demand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326284-koh-larn-water-shortage-worsens-amid-heat-wave/

File photo for reference only. Thailand's island of Koh Larn, just off Pattaya's coast, is grappling with severe water scarcity due to an ongoing heat wave. Inhabitants and tourists alike struggle with a shortage of clean, drinkable water, as the supply fails to meet burgeoning demand. Kanchanop Sukkee, a Koh Larn resident, detailed how the scarcity has driven the tap water prices high. A ton of water generally costs 150 baht, with a delivery truck carrying 2 tons costing 300 baht. However, due to the current heat wave, prices have soared to 350-400 baht round per delivery. In extreme situations like now, prices have rocketed to over 1,000-1,200 baht per round. This spike in water prices is burdensome for the local inhabitants and businesses. The community is urging the responsible authorities to mitigate the water crisis, preferably by enhancing water production and improving the distribution network. -- 2024-05-01 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Air Force Pursues 3 Billion Baht Compensation from AOT Over Golf Course Usage File photo courtesy of ThaiPBS The Royal Thai Air Force is demanding compensation of 3 billion baht from Airports of Thailand (AOT) for proposed use of Kantarat Golf Course, located between two main airport runways, to expand Don Mueang International Airport. The information was communicated by Jirayu Huangsap, the Defence Ministry spokesperson. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326283-air-force-pursues-3-billion-baht-compensation-from-aot-over-golf-course-usage/

The Royal Thai Air Force is demanding compensation of 3 billion baht from Airports of Thailand (AOT) for proposed use of Kantarat Golf Course, located between two main airport runways, to expand Don Mueang International Airport. The information was communicated by Jirayu Huangsap, the Defence Ministry spokesperson. A House committee invited representatives of AOT, the Air Force, and Thailand's aviation authorities to discuss the takeover of the golf course land at Don Mueang. Jirayu, as chairman of the House committee, stated that airport safety would be enhanced without the golf course. AOT president, Kirati Kitmanawat, emphasized the takeover necessity to uphold aviation safety. Instances of golfers driving across taxiways despite warnings have been noted. However, Air Vice Marshal Thanachai Arkartwattana, representing the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF), maintained that the golf course met aviation safety standards and that the RTAF had been strict in upholding airport safety. Valuing the golf course at about 100 million baht per year, Thanachai stated that if AOT intended to use it for 30 years, a compensation of roughly 3 billion baht was due to the RTAF. Jirayu confirmed that a report on the issue would be compiled for government consideration. File photo courtesy of ThaiPBS -- 2024-05-01 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thanathorn Continues Senate Candidate Search despite EC Warnings Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit. File photo courtesy of Wikipedia Progressive Group's Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit has declared he will maintain his campaign to encourage public participation in the upcoming senatorial elections, despite warnings from the Election Commission (EC) that his actions are unlawful. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326282-thanathorn-continues-senate-candidate-search-despite-ec-warnings/

Progressive Group's Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit has declared he will maintain his campaign to encourage public participation in the upcoming senatorial elections, despite warnings from the Election Commission (EC) that his actions are unlawful. The ex-leader of the defunct Future Forward party said the campaign is designed to highlight the importance of electing 200 new senators, replacing the current junta-appointed Senate whose tenure ends on May 10. Thanathorn noted an encouraging response from the public with more people showing interest in running as independent candidates. Despite allegations of having a hidden agenda for the Senate election, Thanathorn rejected the claims. He emphasized the campaign aims to encourage candidates from all political backgrounds to ensure elected senators focus on the public interest. Thanathorn called on the EC, Constitutional Court, and the National Anti-Corruption Commission to remain unbiased. Moreover, rather than implying his group is influencing the Senate election, he encouraged the EC to endorse his campaign, as it emphasized the importance of the election. The EC has cautioned it may shut down the iLaw website that provides free space for potential senatorial candidates on social media. Thanathorn expressed concern about this, questioning why the EC seeks to prevent public access to information on candidates. Under the EC's design, an unprecedented senatorial electoral system permits only candidates to vote for senators. This process consists of three voting rounds: district, provincial, and national. Candidates are required to belong to one of 20 specified professional groups; political party representatives are not eligible to apply. Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit. File photo courtesy of Wikipedia -- 2024-05-01 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Baht Slides: Economic Impacts for Thailand File photo for reference only. Thailand's currency, the baht, has been depreciating significantly, sparking discussions about its future. It reached a six-month low, dropping below 37 to the US dollar. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326281-baht-slides-economic-impacts-for-thailand/

Thailand's currency, the baht, has been depreciating significantly, sparking discussions about its future. It reached a six-month low, dropping below 37 to the US dollar. Among other Asian currencies struggling, the Japanese yen reported the highest drop of 10.5% against the dollar this year, with the baht following closely with a decrease of 7-8%. The Bank of Thailand has not yet intervened with measures to strengthen the baht. Piti Disyatat, the deputy governor, mentioned the central bank is keenly observing the currency's movement, pointing out concerns about the possibility of market disruption or a liquidity crunch. This depreciation is part of a regional trend driven by fears that the US Federal Reserve may maintain high interest rates longer than initially speculated. The relatively higher US interest rate has resulted in a stronger dollar, and consequently, capital outflows from Thai stock and bond markets. The ongoing warm weather could also potentially impact Thailand's current account flows by affecting tourism. However, Piti remains optimistic about a resurgence in tourism, believing the weaker baht will boost exports and bolster the currency's value. Piyasak Manason, a senior economist at InnovestX Securities Co, agrees with Piti's optimism about the potential boost to exports. Nonetheless, the future value of the baht largely depends on Thailand's economic performance. Faster economic growth could drive capital inflows, strengthening the currency. But hurdles such as delayed budget allocation may hamper this process. Rating agencies like S&P Global Ratings and Fitch Ratings are closely watching the country's rising government debt. Any downgrades in Thailand’s credit rating could adversely affect the baht's value. TOP: File photo for reference only. -- 2024-05-01 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai airports to expand for tourism boost File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Wikipedia Thailand's Airports of Thailand (AOT) Public Company Limited is investing $4.8 billion in significant expansions at major airports Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang. This move is to prepare for a predicted increase in tourism as the global Coronavirus pandemic subsides. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326279-thai-airports-to-expand-for-tourism-boost/

Thailand's Airports of Thailand (AOT) Public Company Limited is investing $4.8 billion in significant expansions at major airports Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang. This move is to prepare for a predicted increase in tourism as the global Coronavirus pandemic subsides. Suvarnabhumi Airport in Samut Prakan province will experience vast growth with the addition of two runways and a terminal, plus extending the existing terminal. This will increase its capacity to handle 135 million passengers annually, from the current 60 million. The estimated cost of this project is $3.7 billion. Bangkok's Don Mueang International Airport, used mainly by regional and budget airlines, will also undergo development, including a new terminal and building renovations. This expansion, projected to cost about $1.1 billion, will lift the airport capacity from 30 million to 50 million passengers per year by 2030. AOT will mainly use its revenue for these projects, and seek bank loans only if required. The company displays future fiscal health, expected to more than double its net income to over $600 million in the financial year ending late September. Additionally, AOT is considering bidding on the construction of two more proposed airports, each costing about $2 billion. These airports are planned for tourist areas Chiang Mai and the Andamans, near resort island Phuket. AOT's expansion strategy is part of the Thai Prime Minister's plan to enhance tourism, contributing 12% of the country's GDP. However, AOT faces competition from regional airports such as Singapore's Changi. AOT has therefore implemented operational improvements at its airports, such as reducing check-in waiting times and installing automated immigration gates. AOT aims to welcome between 35 to 40 million foreign tourists this year, nearly matching the pre-pandemic annual record of 40 million visitors. The government's tourism goals include 80 million tourists by 2027 and promotion of event-based tourism for higher revenue. File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Wikipedia -- 2024-05-01 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Tourism Seeks Boost Following Cabinet Reshuffle File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Wikipedia Following a recent cabinet reshuffle, Thailand's tourism operators are calling for greater inter-ministerial collaboration to continue the nation's development as a tourism and aviation hub. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326278-thailand-tourism-seeks-boost-following-cabinet-reshuffle/