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New rules restrict street vending to low-income Thais only File photo In a response that has stirred both applause and dissent, new regulations from Bangkok city officials state that only low-income Thais can now set up street vendor stalls. Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt signed the new rules, which exclude migrant workers from participating in one of the city’s most vibrant sectors. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338624-new-rules-restrict-street-vending-to-poor-thais-only/

In a response that has stirred both applause and dissent, new regulations from Bangkok city officials state that only low-income Thais can now set up street vendor stalls. Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt signed the new rules, which exclude migrant workers from participating in one of the city’s most vibrant sectors. These controversial regulations, enacted by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), mandate that eligible vendors must be Thai nationals with specific economic standings. To qualify, vendors must possess government welfare cards, be paying off National Housing Authority properties, and receive welfare allowances from the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security. Crucially, their net income after business expenses must not exceed 300,000 baht annually. “This policy targets supporting low-income Thais and enhancing public spaces,” explained BMA spokesperson Aekvarunyoo Amrapala. Additional rules restrict each vendor to a single Thai assistant and impose rigorous adherence to public health standards. Vendors must also ensure pedestrian pathways remain clear, requiring between 1.5 to 2 metres of unobstructed walkway based on the street’s size, reported Thaiger. Further specifications state that stalls can measure no more than 3 square metres and must be positioned with a 50 centimetre gap from the road for safety. There must also be a 3-metre emergency exit gap for every 10 stalls, as reported by the Bangkok Post. These measures are set to be published in the Royal Gazette and will take effect soon after. In related developments, Governor Chadchart outlined plans to further regulate street vending. The aim is to monitor vendor income, enforce tax adherence, and eventually clear pavements of hawkers, making the environment more orderly. With both supporters and critics vocal about the new rules, the future of Bangkok's famed street vending culture hangs in the balance. TOP: File photo -- 2024-09-20

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 20 September 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1338623-thailand-live-friday-20-september-2024/

Bangkok braces for floods as heavy rain and upstream water Photo: TNA Bangkok, (TNA)– Bangkok authorities have issued a warning to communities living outside the Chao Phraya River dike, urging them to be vigilant against potential flooding. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338602-bangkok-braces-for-floods-as-heavy-rain-and-upstream-water/

The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has been instructed to finalise the Sino-Thai high-speed railway project by the first quarter of next year. This directive, targeted at newly appointed SRT Director Veeris Ammarapala, was announced by Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit. SRT Directed to Expedite Sino-Thai Railway Completion by 2025 Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338597-srt-directed-to-expedite-sino-thai-railway-completion-by-2024/

PM Faces Pressure Over Thaksin's Alleged Hospital Fake-Out Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra reads the policy statement at parliament in Bangkok, Thailand, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Paetongtarn appeared Parliament for the first time to lay out how her government envisions to improve the country. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is in a precarious position, with her political career hanging in the balance due to legal issues surrounding her father, Thaksin Shinawatra. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338560-pm-faces-dilemma-over-thaksin’s-alleged-fake-out-at-hospital/

Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra reads the policy statement at parliament in Bangkok, Thailand, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Paetongtarn appeared Parliament for the first time to lay out how her government envisions to improve the country. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is in a precarious position, with her political career hanging in the balance due to legal issues surrounding her father, Thaksin Shinawatra. The complication arises from allegations that Thaksin, the influential figure behind the Pheu Thai party, faked a critical illness to avoid jail time by staying at Police Hospital, Bangkok. On September 18, a petition was submitted, urging Paetongtarn to reveal the truth regarding her father's hospital stay. The petition demands a full and transparent disclosure of the evidence, including CCTV footage, that purportedly documents Thaksin's activities in the hospital's private ward. Thaksin was granted an unusual six-month stay in a ward generally off-limits to other convicts. If Paetongtarn complies, she risks incriminating her father, potentially leading to his arrest and imprisonment for perjury. Thaksin was already sentenced in absentia to eight years for power abuse and misconduct, but received a royal pardon reducing his sentence to one year. Yet, he had not spent any time behind bars, owing to his claimed critical illness. Conversely, if Paetongtarn refuses to act, she could face charges of neglecting her official duties. This dereliction of duty might lead to her impeachment and removal from office, a partisan source indicated. The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) seeks evidence allegedly being withheld by the Police Hospital and the Corrections Department. They believe this evidence will reveal the truth behind Thaksin's "critical illness" and verify whether he genuinely required detention outside a prison. This episode is eerily reminiscent of the plight faced by Paetongtarn's aunt, former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, over a decade ago. Yingluck was sentenced to five years in jail for failing to curb corruption in a rice subsidy scheme during her term. With her father's fate hanging in the balance and her own political future at risk, Paetongtarn must navigate this legal and ethical minefield carefully. The outcome of this situation could have significant implications for her premiership and the future of the Shinawatra family's political legacy. -- 2024-09-19

Russian and Turkish Nationals Arrested for Illegal IT and Interior Installation Work on Koh Phangan Picture courtesy: Matichon Authorities in Koh Phangan have arrested two foreign nationals for illegal work activities involving high-income IT and interior installation services. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338556-russian-and-turkish-nationals-arrested-for-illegal-it-and-interior-installation-work/

Russian and Turkish Nationals Arrested for Illegal IT and Interior Installation Work on Koh Phangan Authorities in Koh Phangan have arrested two foreign nationals for illegal work activities involving high-income IT and interior installation services. On September 18, 2024, Police Lieutenant Colonel Winich Boonchit from the Tourist Police Division received complaints about foreign workers violating labour laws. In response, the police launched a crackdown operation aimed at protecting jobs reserved for Thai nationals. The focus was on foreign individuals engaged in unauthorised labour activities on the island. Alexander, a 34-year-old Russian national, was apprehended at a restaurant in Moo 1, Koh Phangan Subdistrict, while installing CCTV cameras, televisions, and sound systems. Evidence collected at the scene led to charges of "working outside of the permitted occupation" for a technician role. Simultaneously, Chaitai, a 45-year-old Turkish national, was arrested at a shop in Moo 8, Koh Phangan Subdistrict, Surat Thani Province. He was caught using tools to measure walls and clean decorative items. Chaitai faced charges of "working without a work permit." Both suspects were taken to Koh Phangan Police Station for further legal procedures. During questioning, Alexander revealed he is a marketing manager for Sol Treatment Co., Ltd., with a salary of 41,300 baht per month. However, he admitted to performing technical work for the company, including installing CCTV systems, televisions, and sound equipment, a role that significantly boosted his monthly earnings to between 70,000 and 100,000 baht. He frequently traveled across the country for these projects, reported Matichon. Chaitai confessed to working as an interior technician for a company, handling installations and cleaning interior decorations. His responsibilities included installing electronic equipment and cleaning decorative items. Rather than receiving a standard salary, he was promised a future business partnership in the company. Picture courtesy: Matichon -- 2024-09-19

MP urges central bank governor to resign over call centre scams by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Pindrop People’s Party list MP Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn launched a blistering attack on the governor of the Bank of Thailand, urging him to resign if he can’t protect the public from the alarming rise in call centre scams. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338554-mp-urges-central-bank-governor-to-resign-over-call-centre-scams/

People’s Party list MP Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn launched a blistering attack on the governor of the Bank of Thailand, urging him to resign if he can’t protect the public from the alarming rise in call centre scams. He slammed the central bank for reaching a “lowest point,” with scammers boldly impersonating officials to trick unsuspecting Thais into transferring their cash. Wiroj accused Governor Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput of doing little more than posting warnings on Facebook, as countless victims fall prey to these scams. He called for urgent measures to delay money transfers, highlighting that many victims realise they’ve been conned almost immediately but are powerless to reverse real-time transactions. “A simple delay in transfers based on the amount sent could save many from financial ruin.” Wiroj insisted that this wouldn’t interfere with regular banking. He also demanded that commercial banks be held accountable for protecting their customers’ accounts, pointing out that in countries plagued by such scams, banks often evade responsibility, leaving victims without compensation. Kitti Kosavisutte, head of the Thailand Banking Sector Computer Emergency Response Team, admitted that while delaying money transfers is technically possible, it might only scratch the surface of the issue and could frustrate honest customers. Cyber Crime Prevention Police are working on amending the Royal Decree on Cyber Crime Prevention to bolster protections against cyber fraud, particularly focusing on mule accounts and data leaks. Public and private sectors are considering a 12-hour delay on suspicious transactions, aiming to catch fraudsters while their victims are asleep, said Kitti. “This delay could help flag suspicious accounts and thwart fraudulent activities.” However, it would target only accounts flagged for fraud rather than impacting all transactions. In a bid to ensure full accountability, discussions are underway to involve banks, telecom operators, and consumers in compensating scam victims. The Bank of Thailand is collaborating with various regulatory agencies to guarantee that victims receive 100% compensation, while carefully assessing banks’ responsibilities in these situations. Daranee Saeju, the central bank’s assistant governor for payment systems policy, warned that banks must tighten their security against data theft and fraud. “If they fail to protect their systems, they might be forced to fully compensate victims.” Mule accounts While the central bank has not commented on Wiroj’s suggestions, it is working with various sectors to tackle cybercrime, especially concerning mule accounts, through a robust data-sharing framework. Since last year’s implementation of the Royal Decree, efforts to verify deposit accounts have intensified, categorising accounts based on risk: black, grey, and brown. Black accounts are closely monitored and swiftly shut down, while grey accounts are managed through a new Central Fraud Register system. Brown accounts are verified internally by individual banks. To further safeguard consumers, the central bank is pushing for a money-lock system and enhanced security features, including facial recognition for high-value transactions, expected to roll out by the fourth quarter of this year. So far, 15,000 depositors linked to mule accounts have been identified. Digital Economy and Society Minister Prasert Jantararuangthong has vowed to maintain a strong focus on online fraud prevention and a sustainable digital economy. The Anti Online Scam Operation Center reported a sharp decline in daily financial losses due to online crime, having suspended over a million mule accounts and shut down 138,660 illegal URLs since October 2023—a staggering eleven-fold increase from the previous year. With scams rampant in Thailand, affecting hundreds of thousands annually and causing financial damage of around 70 billion baht from March 2022 to July 2024, it’s clear that urgent action is needed. The Global Anti-Scam Alliance Report 2024 revealed that only 55% of Thais feel confident in identifying scams, while a staggering 89% encounter them at least once a month. by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Pindrop Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-19

Illegal Foreign Guide Assaults Chinese Tourist at Jewelry Store Picture via 3Plus News The tourism industry is once again shocked by a scandalous incident in which a foreign illegal tour guide attacked a Chinese tourist at a well-known jewelry store in Lat Krabang on September 17. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338552-illegal-foreign-guide-assaults-chinese-tourist-at-jewelry-store/

The tourism industry is once again shocked by a scandalous incident in which a foreign illegal tour guide attacked a Chinese tourist at a well-known jewelry store in Lat Krabang on September 17. A viral clip shows a heated argument between a male foreign illegal tour guide and a Chinese female tourist. The guide, angered by the tourist’s refusal to make a purchase, claimed it was disrespectful. He then rushed toward the tourist and pushed her, attempting to stop her from recording the altercation. The tourist screamed for help, and store security intervened, escorting the guide away before the clip cuts off. This jewelry store is notorious for catering to "zero-dollar tours," where foreign illegal guides bring tourists to buy products in exchange for tips. It is believed that the guide became frustrated when the tourist did not make a purchase, causing him to lose his commission, reported 3Plus News. Following the clip’s release on social media, many Thai tour guides expressed outrage, noting the negative impact this behavior has on both the economy and the reputation of Thai tourism. Just two days before this incident, on September 16, a group of Thai tour guides submitted a petition to the Minister of Tourism and Sports, calling for urgent action against foreign illegal tour guides and operators encroaching on reserved Thai occupations. The scandal has intensified demands for authorities, especially the Department of Tourism and Tourist Police, to take immediate action to restore confidence and improve the image of Thai tourism. Pictures via 3Plus News -- 2024-09-19

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Thursday 19 September 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338550-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-thursday-19-september-2024/

NEWS - 19-September.mp4 The opposition People’s Party has warned the government that revisions to its proposed casino project could lead to shady business dealings. They doubt the Prime Minister's plan to boost income by legalizing underground businesses will match Macau’s success and argue that the government hasn't fully considered the impact of legalizing casinos. Gen Prawit Wong-suwon is preparing to sue a TV host and a former Pheu Thai Party spokesman for releasing voice recordings that may allegedly incriminate him. The two men filed a petition seeking an ethics probe against Gen Prawit. However it was suspected the audio clips may have been obtained illegally. The Labour Minister is confident that a 400-baht daily minimum wage could be introduced nationwide on Oct 1, along with support for affected businesses. Despite uncertainty around tomorrow's meeting, where five employers' representatives missed last week's session, the remaining members will move forward, requiring a two-thirds vote to approve the wage hike. 18, seaside houses in Trang Province were hit by 3-meter high waves, destroying 15 houses, 8 were completely demolished, leaving families with nothing. Residents say government promises to build a sea wall never materialized. Across the region A Chinese aircraft carrier sailed between two Japanese islands near Taiwan for the first time yesterday, The Japanese government said it was the first time a Chinese aircraft carrier, which was accompanied by two destroyers, entered, this area within 24 miles of the country’s coast. Adding “This incident is totally unacceptable. Todays Weather The latest storm is set to track west bringing torrential rain into Ubon Rachathani and the north east later Today and tomorrow… Chiang Mai and the north: Sunny with thundershowers 34C degrees celsius Bangkok: cloudy with showers 30C Pattaya: cloudy with showers 30C Phuket and the south: Torrential rain and Thunderstorms 28C Hua Hin: Bright cloudy with thundershowers afternoon 30C Much the same over the weekend . AQI: green which is good Green clear, yellow moderate, Orange High, Red unhealthy. Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Wunderground.com The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Windy.com. -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-09-19 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5

Police Unit 191 Launches Tactical First Aid Training to Reduce Operational Losses Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Police Major General Worawit Yanachinda announced the launch of an intensive Tactical First Aid Training programme aimed at enhancing the safety and operational efficiency of Thailand's Police Unit 191. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338549-police-unit-191-launches-tactical-first-aid-training-to-cut-operational-losses/

Police Major General Worawit Yanachinda announced the launch of an intensive Tactical First Aid Training programme aimed at enhancing the safety and operational efficiency of Thailand's Police Unit 191. Speaking at the event, Major General Yanachinda was joined by Police Colonel Wasan Thawatchaiwirot and other senior officials, marking a pivotal step forward for the unit. Amidst the increasingly complex landscape of crime, officers often find themselves in high-risk situations, particularly when facing armed suspects. This elevated danger necessitates equipping police personnel with specialised first aid skills distinct from conventional medical training. The programme focuses on critical interventions such as CPR under stress and the strategic use of trauma care equipment, allowing officers to manage injuries effectively in the field before traditional medical help becomes available. “Understanding Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) is indispensable for our officers. It ensures they are prepared not only to protect themselves but also to save lives in volatile environments,” Major General Yanachinda stated, emphasising the importance of this training in reducing operational losses. The training sessions, scheduled to run from September 16 to September 19, 2024, are structured into four robust training modules. Each session is designed to provide the officers with a thorough grasp of TCCC principles and hands-on practice. The expertise is provided by instructors from the 3rd Division of the Air Support Command alongside the Border Patrol Police, ensuring top-tier tactical medical education. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Deputy Commanders Police Lieutenant Colonel Kongsak Srihor and Police Lieutenant Colonel Satawat Khonchum, along with Police Lieutenant Colonel Chetthaporn Bua-chan, were among the over 50 Patrol Unit officers participating in the programme, underscoring the broad commitment to enhancing unit readiness and survival skills. This training initiative highlights Unit 191’s commitment to staying abreast of modern tactical requirements, ensuring that officers are better prepared to face the unpredictable challenges of their duty. As crime evolves, so too must the methods employed by those who stand on the front line. TOP Picture courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2024-09-19

Prawit Faces Scrutiny Over Possible Excessive Absences from House Sessions FIle photo courtesy: Thai Rath House Speaker Wan Muhamad Noor Matha has initiated an investigation into whether Palang Pracharath leader and MP Prawit Wongsuwan has missed too many parliamentary sessions, which could jeopardize his status as a member of the House of Representatives. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338547-prawit-faces-scrutiny-over-possible-excessive-absences-from-house-sessions/

House Speaker Wan Muhamad Noor Matha has initiated an investigation into whether Palang Pracharath leader and MP Prawit Wongsuwan has missed too many parliamentary sessions, which could jeopardize his status as a member of the House of Representatives. This action follows a petition filed today by former Pheu Thai spokesperson Prompong Nopparit. The investigation will determine if Prawit has been absent from more than 25% of House sessions without prior permission, which, according to parliamentary rules, could endanger his MP status. Prawit has reportedly failed to vote or abstain from voting on 13 out of 16 bills and motions since the current parliamentary term began. In a related development, a controversial tape surfaced on social media, allegedly capturing Prawit expressing frustrations about his unsuccessful bid to become prime minister. Prawit's party members have dismissed the tape as an AI-manipulated fabrication aimed at tarnishing his reputation, purportedly orchestrated by individuals associated with Pheu Thai. The political landscape has further shifted with the Palang Pracharath party playing a less prominent role in the current government. Half of its MPs, led by Thammanat Prompao, have defected to support Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the daughter of influential Pheu Thai figure Thaksin Shinawatra, after Palang Pracharath was excluded from the Pheu Thai-led coalition, reported Thai Newsroom. Adding to the political turmoil, Bhumjaithai MP Suwanna Kumpiro has been ordered by the Supreme Court to cease his legislative duties immediately. This suspension came as the court considers an electoral fraud case against him, filed by the Election Commission. Suwanna is accused of engaging in vote-buying activities, which allegedly secured his victory in last year’s election for an MP seat in an upper northeastern constituency. The developments involving Prawit and Suwanna underscore the increasing scrutiny and legal pressures on Thai politicians, reflecting an evolving and contentious political arena. TOP: FIle photo courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-09-19

Former Army Chief Set to Lead Neo-Conservative Party Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Former Army Chief Apirat Kongsompong is widely speculated to head a new neo-conservative party expected to emerge soon and possibly contest the upcoming general election. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338541-former-army-chief-set-to-lead-neo-conservative-party/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Former Army Chief Apirat Kongsompong is widely speculated to head a new neo-conservative party expected to emerge soon and possibly contest the upcoming general election. This party, still unnamed, is believed to be forming with the aim of recruiting prominent retirees from high-ranking government positions over the past few years. The speculated members of this potential political force include former police chief Chakthip Chaijinda, former undersecretary for interior Chatchai Promlert, as well as Apirat himself. These individuals share close personal and professional ties with former coup leader and Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, who now leads the Ruam Thai Sang Chart party. Today, Suriyasai Takasila, Dean of Rangsit University’s College of Social Innovation, commented on the neo-conservative group. He explained that this party is mainly targeting support from government personnel, both active and retired, who may oppose the reformist People’s Party. The neo-conservative camp aims to secure a solid base amongst governmental figures and older citizens who are less inclined to support the progressive reforms championed by the increasingly popular People’s Party, noted for their appeal to younger voters, reported Thai Newsroom. In recent elections, parties like the ultra-conservative Palang Pracharath, Ruam Thai Sang Chart, and the populist Pheu Thai have struggled to compete with the People’s Party's growing influence. Suriyasai, a former activist against ex-Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, now a de facto leader of Pheu Thai, emphasised the structural gap these current parties face in combating the rising youth-driven politics. As the political landscape continues to evolve, the introduction of a new neo-conservative outfit spearheaded by notable figures like Apirat Kongsompong could mark a significant shift in the forthcoming elections, potentially reconfiguring longstanding alliances and voter bases in Thailand. -- 2024-09-19

Tourist Police Ensure Safety for Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan Picture courtesy: Daily News Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira Phueak-um, Commissioner of the Tourist Police, has assured enhanced safety measures for tourists attending the upcoming Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan, set to attract thousands of visitors. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338535-tourist-police-ensure-safety-for-full-moon-party-on-koh-phangan/

Picture courtesy: Daily News Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira Phueak-um, Commissioner of the Tourist Police, has assured enhanced safety measures for tourists attending the upcoming Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan, set to attract thousands of visitors. The announcement came after a crucial security briefing held at the Vannee Golden Sands Hotel on September 18, involving key officials and representatives. Joining the security discussions were Deputy Commissioner Pol. Maj. Gen. Phongsiyam Meekhantong, Pol. Maj. Gen. Phopphon Chakkapark, British Consul Joanne Finnamore-Crorkin, London Police Chief Inspector Lorenzo Conigliaro, as well as local district and municipal leaders, reported Daily News. Picture courtesy: Daily News The main focus was on strategies to ensure the safety of the event, which will take place on Haad Rin Beach, the epicentre of the Full Moon Party festivities. Post-meeting, a large-scale readiness check and public relations campaign was conducted right on Haad Rin Beach. This initiative involved a broad spectrum of agencies including the Koh Phangan District Office, Koh Phangan Police, Surat Thani Immigration, and the Koh Phangan Marine Department. These groups, along with village committees, will work collectively to safeguard the well-being of tourists and locals alike. Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira emphasised that the initiative is in line with the government's tourism promotion policy led by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. Picture courtesy: Daily News The aim is to create a secure environment that will attract more tourists, boosting the local economy. With the high tourist season around the corner, the Tourist Police are ramping up efforts to ensure everything runs smoothly. Moreover, tourists can reach the Tourist Police via the 24/7 call centre at 1155, which is linked to emergency services at 191 and 1669, ensuring continuous support. This comprehensive approach is expected to build confidence among tourists, reassuring them of their safety while enjoying one of Thailand’s most famous beach parties. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-09-19

NBTC Approves Cell Broadcast System for Disaster Alerts Picture: NNT The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) has given the green light for a new cell broadcast system designed to send disaster alerts swiftly. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338534-nbtc-approves-cell-broadcast-system-for-disaster-alerts/

The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) has given the green light for a new cell broadcast system designed to send disaster alerts swiftly. The system, to be rolled out by two leading mobile operators, Advanced Info Services (AIS) and True Corporation, aims to provide timely warnings to residents in affected areas without requiring any special apps. AIS and True Corporation successfully trialled the technology earlier this year, demonstrating its efficacy in delivering text messages and audible alerts directly to mobile phones within the radius of their cell towers. Trairat Viriyasirikul, acting secretary-general of the NBTC, announced that both companies are expanding their network infrastructure. Additional cell towers are being installed and should be operational by the fourth quarter of the year, enhancing coverage for disaster alerts. To further encourage participation, the NBTC has decided to offer financial incentives to AIS and True. For the next three years, these companies will benefit from reduced contributions to their Universal Service Obligations. While the exact figures remain undisclosed, this move is expected to significantly lower operational costs, providing a win-win scenario for the operators and the public. Simultaneously, the NBTC is in talks with the state-run National Telecom company, which has proposed a similar alert system. Approval is pending as the commission awaits more detailed plans. Building on mobile alerts, the NBTC has also mapped out plans to test an emergency warning system through digital terrestrial television. The pilot will be conducted via the Royal Thai Army's Channel 5, aiming to reach another segment of the population that might be unaffected by mobile alerts, reported NNT. This multi-platform approach is designed to enhance public safety, ensuring that emergency information is accessible to as many people as possible. With these initiatives, the NBTC aims to bolster Thailand's preparedness and responsiveness to natural disasters, making sure that critical information reaches the public promptly and effectively. Picture: NNT -- 2024-09-19