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Rising risk of influenza and dengue amid Covid-19 warns DDC by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Fusion Medical Animation, Unsplash The Department of Disease Control (DDC) has issued an alert about the escalating risk of influenza and dengue fever this year, amidst the persisting threat of Covid-19. The department’s recent communicable diseases report highlights the significance of these health risks. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323464-rising-risk-of-influenza-and-dengue-amid-covid-19-warns-ddc/

The Department of Disease Control (DDC) has issued an alert about the escalating risk of influenza and dengue fever this year, amidst the persisting threat of Covid-19. The department’s recent communicable diseases report highlights the significance of these health risks. The department’s spokesperson, Dr Jurai Wongsawat, disclosed that the beginning of the year saw substantial clusters of influenza in schools, prisons, and military camps. The most vulnerable demographic to influenza turned out to be children between 5 and 9 years old, accounting for a significant proportion of the cases. It is estimated that around 80% of the infections resulted from a strain of influenza A, with the remaining 20% being triggered by influenza B. The department estimates the influenza cases to touch a figure of 346,110 this year, a slight dip compared to last year’s 460,325 cases. The situation with dengue fever is also worrisome. The number of reported cases this year has already surpassed 20,000, marking a twofold increase from the previous year. The disease has claimed 27 lives so far, 20 of whom were adults with pre-existing chronic conditions. Dengue fever seems to have affected all age groups, but schoolchildren aged 5 to 14 have been the most affected. The DDC advises immediate medical consultation if symptoms such as high fever, vomiting, stomach pains, or rash are observed. It strongly discourages self-medication before consulting with a medical professional, reported Bangkok Post. As for Covid, the DDC predicts a marginal decrease in infection numbers from last year’s 652,868 cases to approximately 649,524 this year. The projected death toll due to the disease for this year is about 852, slightly more than the 848 fatalities recorded last year. In related news, Bangkok’s health office predicts a severe outbreak of three diseases, with high infection rates, and plans to increase monitoring for an additional 12 diseases. Preparations are underway to care for patients, protect against infections, and secure treatment drugs and vaccines. by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Fusion Medical Animation, Unsplash Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-28 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Eyes UNESCO Nod for Cultural Icons by Krajangwit Johjit BANGKOK (NNT) - The Cabinet has approved the nomination of Thai traditional dress and Muay Thai for UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, seeking to globally recognize these fundamental aspects of Thai culture. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323463-thailand-eyes-unesco-nod-for-cultural-icons/

BANGKOK (NNT) - The Cabinet has approved the nomination of Thai traditional dress and Muay Thai for UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, seeking to globally recognize these fundamental aspects of Thai culture. According to Culture Minister Sermsak Pongpanich, related units, including the Department of Cultural Promotion (DCP), have been tasked with preparing and forwarding the necessary documents to the Thai National Commission for UNESCO, which falls under the Ministry of Education, to be submitted to the international body by March 31, 2024. The initiative follows the successful inclusion of “Tom Yum Kung” and “Kebaya” in UNESCO's list and the earlier submission for the “loincloth” in March 2023. Discussing the cultural significance and historical richness of Thai traditional dress and Muay Thai, Sermsek noted that Thai traditional dress, evolving over 1400 years from the Dvaravati to the early Rattanakosin period, symbolizes Thai identity and craftsmanship. The attire was enhanced in 1960 when Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother encouraged the study and creation of several styles of Thai dress. Meanwhile, Muay Thai, a martial art with over 300 years of heritage, is known for its comprehensive combat techniques and cultural rituals. This includes the Wai Kru Ram Muay dance, which demonstrates respect for past and present Muay Thai masters. Discussing the nomination, DCP Director-General Kovit Pakamart said the proposals for Thai traditional dress and Muay Thai satisfy UNESCO's criteria for intangible cultural heritage, noting their contribution to cultural diversity, widespread community involvement in their upkeep, as well as human creativity and ingenuity. For insights into Thailand's cultural heritage, the DCP provides extensive resources at www.culture.go.th. Discover a range of topics from local customs to international heritage within the website’s "Cultural Knowledge" and "ICH" sections. Updates on the latest cultural events and programs are also available via the DCP's official Facebook page and Line account at @culture. by Krajangwit Johjit Source: NNT 2024-03-28 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai police forms special unit to tackle aggressive monkey menace by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Tha Hin police station In the central plains province of Lop Buri, Thailand, a special police unit has been established to apprehend aggressive macaque monkeys causing havoc for the local populace. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323462-thai-police-forms-special-unit-to-tackle-aggressive-monkey-menace/

In the central plains province of Lop Buri, Thailand, a special police unit has been established to apprehend aggressive macaque monkeys causing havoc for the local populace. The head of the Lop Buri Provincial Police, 45 year old Apirak Vetkanchana, gave orders to 38 year old Kantaphon Wanna, the superintendent of Tha Hin Police, to organise a monkey suppression unit. This unit started its operations yesterday. Apirak sanctioned the acquisition of slingshots for the police officers to defend against the hostile monkeys. Previously, the police used sedatives to tame the monkeys, however, the animals would become dormant only after five minutes, providing them ample time to escape to various locations, including rooftops of buildings, thereby endangering people. Locals have shown positive response towards the operation on its very first day. This initiative was taken following Saturday’s agreement by the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry to recompense individuals who have been attacked by macaques. This decision is in response to the increasing number of incidents in Lop Buri, including at least three major cases this month. Over 10 officials from Wildlife Conservation Office 1 in Saraburi have been stationed to handle the monkey menace around the Provincial Agriculture and Cooperatives Office on Ratchadamnoen Road in Tambon Tha Hin. This area is notorious for monkeys swiping belongings from pedestrians. The officials have set up cages throughout the region and successfully trapped nine monkeys yesterday and another seven today. Wildlife conservation director, Sutthipong Kaemtubtim, confirmed that the 18 captured monkeys were transported to a wildlife clinic in Saraburi for health assessments. After the health check, the monkeys will be relocated to a suitable place for approximately two months before being returned to Lop Buri. The Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) is contemplating potential solutions to the monkey problem, including the possibility of housing them in a zoo. On Wednesday, DNP officials positioned additional cages on Ratchadamnoen Road and captured five more monkeys, reported Bangkok Post. The monkey problem in Lop Buri has been persisting for several years, with a recent study documenting a population of 5,709 macaques living wildly in the province in 2023. The macaques are safeguarded by the Wildlife Conservation and Protection Act. by Mitch Connor Top Picture courtesy of Tha Hin police station Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-28 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai government explores funding for digital wallet giveaway by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post The Thai government is currently exploring funding avenues for its digital wallet giveaway initiative, with final decisions on the funding source set to be determined next month. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323461-thai-government-explores-funding-for-digital-wallet-giveaway/

The Thai government is currently exploring funding avenues for its digital wallet giveaway initiative, with final decisions on the funding source set to be determined next month. Lawaron Saengsanit, the permanent secretary for the Finance Ministry, revealed that the ministry and the Budget Bureau have been assigned by the digital wallet policy committee to assess possible funding sources for the scheme. The committee’s meeting presided over by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, took place on Wednesday. Three probable funding sources have been proposed: a borrowing bill, the national budget, or a combination of loans and the budget. As the government is in the process of preparing the national budget for fiscal year 2025, adjustments could be made to this budget to finance the initiative. The Finance Ministry may also consult with the Budget Bureau about using the 2024 budget to fund the scheme. Lawaron said, “The details should be made clearer on April 10. The prime minister also wants the project’s details to go before the cabinet by the end of next month.” Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who also holds the finance minister position, highlighted the dire state of the economy and the need for stimulation. The digital wallet scheme is seen as a short-term measure to inject cash into the economy, to improve people’s livelihoods. The prime minister emphasised the urgency of its implementation. Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat previously mentioned that the government plans to launch its flagship digital wallet giveaway scheme in the final quarter of this year. The timeline for the scheme is expected to be clearer following the digital wallet policy committee’s meeting on April 10. The proposed 500-billion-baht (US$ 14 billion) scheme is tentatively slated to be rolled out in May. However, widespread anticipation of a delay exists due to legal questions surrounding the scheme. The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has also cautioned the government about potential pitfalls associated with the scheme, ranging from graft to legal risks, reported Bangkok Post. The digital cash giveaway scheme is the flagship policy of the Pheu Thai-led government and is designed to stimulate the economy. Eligibility for the 10,000-baht (US$ 280) handout under the scheme is for Thais aged 16 and older who earn less than 70,000 baht (US$ 2,000) a month and have less than 500,000 baht (US$ 14,000) in their bank accounts. An estimated 50 million people are expected to be eligible for the handout. by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-28 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Thursday 28 March 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323460-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-thursday-28-march-2024/

Two labour rights groups criticized a new wage committee's approval of a daily minimum wage of 400 baht for some areas in 10 provinces, saying it marked the worst outcome to the country's wages system. The groups said disparities in wages among workers in the same province was unfair given that the prices of goods and services such as water, electricity and internet were the same. They urged the government to implement a standard 492 baht minimum daily wage across the country. The Department of health has warned people to be wary of contracting influenza and dengue fever. The department has found significant clusters of influenza in schools, prisons and military bases, Young Children were the most infected. Some 20 000 cases of dengue have been reported so far this year with around 20 deaths, The department expects to see around 340 000 cases of influenza, While covid 19 could reach around 650 000 cases with 850 deaths in 2024. Thailand's lower house of parliament passed a final reading of the marriage equality Bill in a landmark step that moves the country closer to becoming the third territory in Asia to legalise same-sex unions.The Bill now requires approval from the Senate and endorsement from the king before it becomes law. A new report claims Thais received 58 million fraudulent messages last year, the highest in Asia. The messages usually contained dangerous or fake links and malware, The report issued by A caller identification application called Whoscall ‘ claims that 79 million dishonest SMS messages and calls were received across the country in 2023. Around the region The sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has rejected the idea of a summit with Japan, saying a meeting cannot be held because Tokyo has “no courage” to take the first step to better relations. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida recently communicated his intention to meet the North Korean leader “as soon as possible”. WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: Sunny 38C Bangkok: Cloudy 35C Pattaya: partly cloudy 33C Phuket and the south: partly cloudy 34C Hua Hin: Bright with light cloud, winds SSE 34C AQI yellow moderate, 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 2024-03-28 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai tourism federation calls for urgent supply development by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Apichart Jinakul The Federation of Thai Tourism Associations (Fetta) has revealed its intention to present an urgent demand for supply development to the government. The appeal is due to a rising demand that is overburdening the existing infrastructure. This was disclosed by Fetta’s secretary-general, Adith Chairattananon. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323459-thai-tourism-federation-calls-for-urgent-supply-development/

The Federation of Thai Tourism Associations (Fetta) has revealed its intention to present an urgent demand for supply development to the government. The appeal is due to a rising demand that is overburdening the existing infrastructure. This was disclosed by Fetta’s secretary-general, Adith Chairattananon. Adith explained that while the government has been keen on stimulating demand by granting visa exemptions and increasing promotional spending, little attention has been paid to the supply side. “Tourism operators surely benefit from soaring demand, but if we ignore the development of supply our industry will not be sustainable.” Key proposals in the white paper include a solid plan to enhance the capacity of each province, especially about infrastructure such as road networks, water supply, and waste management. Adith noted that even before the pandemic hit, major cities were already grappling with overtourism. He cited the near 40 million foreign arrivals in 2019 as a factor that impacted the welfare of locals and the environment. One of the strategies proposed is to divert tourists to different locations. Adith suggested that the government should invest in transport to enhance connectivity. An example he offered was the routing of more international flights to regional airports like Udon Thani, Khon Kaen, and Chiang Rai, which are yet to reach their capacity. The association also recommended the organization of public bus services in cities, which it deemed easier than awaiting railway development. In the long run, the government should incentivise bus tours to transition to electric vehicles, the paper suggested. Adith believes that in addition to tracking tourist numbers and revenue, the Tourism and Sports Ministry should also consider other indicators. These include well-being, happiness, community satisfaction, and environmental friendliness. Fetta, which is made up of over 30 members, including regional tourism associations, plans to raise several key issues for discussion. These issues include logistical challenges experienced by most provinces. The white paper, which is currently in draft form, is expected to be finalised within a month. The president of the Association of Chon Buri Tourism Federation, Thanet Supornsahasrungsi, suggested an increase in annual leave days for Thai companies to match those in Europe. He believes that this will help distribute more trips throughout the year, reducing Thailand’s reliance on international arrivals, reported Bangkok Post. Marisa Sukosol Nunbhakdi, president of the Thai Hotels Association, called on the government to legalise unregistered accommodation swiftly to ensure fair competition and sustainable standards. by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Apichart Jinakul Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-28 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Fraudulent calls and messages surge by 18% in Thailand in 2023 by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Lindsey LaMont, Unsplash Whoscall, the caller identification application, has reported that fraudulent calls and messages plagued Thailand’s communication channels in 2023, with Thai citizens receiving an alarming 79 million dishonest messages and calls. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323457-fraudulent-calls-and-messages-surge-by-18-in-thailand-in-2023/

Whoscall, the caller identification application, has reported that fraudulent calls and messages plagued Thailand’s communication channels in 2023, with Thai citizens receiving an alarming 79 million dishonest messages and calls. This figure presents a notable 18% rise from the 66.7 million deceptive calls and messages recorded in 2022. The 2023 statistics were broken down into 20.8 million dubious calls and 58.3 million untrustworthy messages, which respectively marked a 22% and 17% increase from the previous year. The latter figure, 58.3 million messages, placed Thailand at the top of the list of Asian countries most affected by fraudulent SMSs. The report detailed that these high-risk messages often contained malicious links and malware. Interestingly, while Thailand experienced a rise in these deceptive communications, Asia as a whole saw a reduction. The continent recorded 347.3 million fraudulent calls and messages in 2023, showing a 14% decrease from 2022’s 405.3 million. This decrease marks the second consecutive year that the overall figure has fallen. However, Thailand bucked the trend, registering the highest average number of fraudulent SMSs received per individual in Asia, with each Thai citizen receiving approximately 20.3 deceitful messages. Thitinan Suttinarapun, Gogolook’s marketing director for Southeast Asia, the company that operates Whoscall, noted that the data demonstrates that Thai people are more susceptible to the risks associated with these deceptive calls and messages than other Asians, reported Bangkok Post. Thitinan reported that fraudsters are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their tactics, often pretending to represent reputable shipping companies or government agencies. She urged Thai citizens to exercise caution and only trust information from reliable sources. To assist in avoiding these scams, Thitinan recommended the use of applications like Whoscall, which are equipped with features designed to identify and prevent fraudulent calls and messages. In related news, the Department of Business Development (DBD) in Thailand issued a warning to businesses, uncovering a new ploy by online scammers that could leave unsuspecting victims in legal jeopardy. DBD Director-General Oramon Sapthaveetham sounded the alarm today, urging businesses to stay vigilant or face the consequences. by Mitch Connor Top Picture courtesy of Lindsey LaMont, Unsplash Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-28 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Viral photo: Power pole piercing through sewer in Sisaket by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of The Nation A snapshot showing a power pole piercing a drainage pipe beside Highway 226 in Sisaket’s Uthumphon Phisai district has taken social media by storm. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323452-viral-photo-power-pole-piercing-through-sewer-in-sisaket/

A snapshot showing a power pole piercing a drainage pipe beside Highway 226 in Sisaket’s Uthumphon Phisai district has taken social media by storm. Within a day, the post, shared by the Watchdog.Act Facebook page, amassed a staggering 28,000 likes, accompanied by over 3,200 comments, and shared a whopping 2,400 times. Critics lambasted the contracted builders for their apparent oversight, failing to navigate around the pre-existing power pole. Responding swiftly to the viral sensation, Uthumphon Phisai’s assistant district chief, Jirasak Sri-aram, personally visited the site for inspection. However, upon arrival, he discovered the contractor’s attempt to camouflage the blunder by covering the sewer’s top with soil, making the pole seem as though it rested above ground. Undeterred, Jirasak investigated further, using his mobile phone to capture evidence from a nearby manhole. To his astonishment, the photos confirmed the inconvenient truth: the pole penetrated the sewage pipe’s core. Assurances from the Provincial Electricity Authority’s Sisaket office promised swift action, dispatching workers to relocate the pole without delay. Further inquiries led to revelations from the Highway Department’s branch in Si Sa Ket, the project’s proprietor, reported The Nation. The contractor, citing spatial constraints, claimed laying the drainage pipe without circumventing the pole was their only recourse. They vowed to seek alternative solutions if drainage efficiency suffered as a consequence. In related news, the Machanu Roundabout, where Jomtien Second Road meets the path to Jomtien Beach in Pattaya, turned into a perilous zone, prompting residents to demand swift intervention. The pedestrian crossing signs, seemingly innocuous, are placed at a precarious height of only 160 centimetres. Tourists, oblivious to the looming hazard, find themselves colliding with these signs, resulting in a string of head injuries. Some unfortunate ones have faced hospitalisation, their wounds demanding stitches. In other news, Pattaya recently saw over 200 business owners on Jomtien Beach Road petitioning the deputy mayor to revoke a one-way traffic rule that had been put into place. This rule, implemented on March 1, pertains to a stretch of Jomtien Beach Road from Dongtan Curve to the Chaiyapruek Intersection. by Mitch Connor TOP Photo courtesy of The Nation Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-28 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Phetchabun: Cannabis-induced hallucination triggers police chase by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A 23 year old man experienced a hallucinatory episode after consuming cannabis, leading to a high-speed chase and subsequent arrest by local police. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323451-phetchabun-cannabis-induced-hallucination-triggers-police-chase/

A 23 year old man experienced a hallucinatory episode after consuming cannabis, leading to a high-speed chase and subsequent arrest by local police. The incident began when the young man, identified only as Amorn, rode his motorcycle through a community area without a helmet, number plate, or necessary documentation. His erratic behaviour and modified vehicle caught the attention of police officer Chaiwin Nantharat, who attempted to conduct a routine stop. The situation escalated when Amorn, panicked and under the influence, resisted and attempted to flee, resulting in a physical altercation. The chase ended when Amorn, exhausted, was apprehended by the pursuing officers. In his statement, the man confessed to consuming a large amount of cannabis, which he believed made him paranoid that someone was out to harm him, prompting his desperate attempt to escape. The incident was captured on video and posted on Facebook, where it garnered attention and praise for the police officer’s dedication to duty. Chaiwin, a traffic police unit leader at Tha Phon Police Station in Phetchabun province, was performing his duties when he noticed two motorcycles racing each other. His intervention led to the chase, which concluded with the capture of the suspect. Upon further investigation, it was revealed that Amorn, along with a friend, were on their way home after using cannabis, leading to his paranoid reaction, reported KhaoSod. The police charged him with modifying a vehicle without proper documents and obstructing an officer during the performance of their duties. He was taken into custody and is now facing legal proceedings. In related news, the two Russian men on a graffiti rampage after a booze-fuelled escapade in Patong, Phuket, have been arrested. Police Major General Saranyu Chamnarnrat, Deputy Chief of the Provincial Police Region 8, revealed the arrest of the Russian vandals yesterday. In other news, a fisherman stumbled upon 20 kilogrammes of suspected drugs floating in the sea, which bore the same brand marks as a previous find. Upon discovery, he promptly reported the matter to the authorities. by Nattapong Westwood TOP Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-28 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai state personnel to receive Chinese language training by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post A memorandum of understanding (MoU) has been signed between the King Prajadhipok’s Institute (KPI), the Thai-Chinese Cultural Relationship Council (TCCRC), and the Beijing Chinese Language and Culture College (BLCC). The agreement, centred on Thai-Sino cooperation, aims to provide Chinese language training for Thai state personnel. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323450-thai-state-personnel-to-receive-chinese-language-training/

A memorandum of understanding (MoU) has been signed between the King Prajadhipok’s Institute (KPI), the Thai-Chinese Cultural Relationship Council (TCCRC), and the Beijing Chinese Language and Culture College (BLCC). The agreement, centred on Thai-Sino cooperation, aims to provide Chinese language training for Thai state personnel. The signing ceremony took place at the King Prajadhipok Museum on Lan Luang Road in Bangkok. The MoU was endorsed by Vitavas Chaipakpoom, the secretary-general of KPI, Pinit Jarusombat, the president of TCCRC, and Wang Zhimin, the rector of BLCC. Wang highlighted that this is the second memorandum to bolster academic cooperation. The aim is to promote the study of the Chinese language and culture, encourage research, and facilitate academic exchange. The ultimate goal is to enhance Chinese language proficiency among Thai state officials and fortify bilateral relations. The Chinese language training programme for Thai state officials enjoys the support of the Overseas Chinese Affairs Office and the Chinese embassy in Thailand. Wang disclosed that since its inception in 2019, the programme has had 217 participants. Pinit disclosed that the Chinese government offers scholarships to incentivise Thai officials to study at Peking University, reported Bangkok Post. The programme has proved beneficial for many Thai state officials. It is particularly favoured by those from the Royal Thai Police, the Immigration Bureau, the Education Ministry, Thai customs, and local administrative organisations. These officials are instrumental in managing Chinese investors and tourists in Thailand. In related news, Pattaya‘s hospitality sector is witnessing a notable influx of Chinese visitors, a development credited to the newly introduced Thai-China free visa policy. This detail was shared by Boonkerd Suksrikan, Vice President of the Eastern Thai Hotels Association. Boonkerd noted a significant increase in hotel reservations made by Chinese tourists, particularly those planning to stay until April, which is when Thailand’s globally renowned Songkran water festival takes place. by Mitch Connor TOP: Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-28 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

TJA receives no dirty money from online gambling network File photo : Lawyer Sittra Biabungkerd holds a press conference on Tuesday. The Thai Journalists Association (TJA) has concluded an internal investigation into an allegation, made by a high-profile lawyer, claiming that a journalists’ association, or its members, had received bribes from an online gambling network. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323448-tja-receives-no-dirty-money-from-online-gambling-network/

The Thai Journalists Association (TJA) has concluded an internal investigation into an allegation, made by a high-profile lawyer, claiming that a journalists’ association, or its members, had received bribes from an online gambling network. The investigation found that the TJA did not receive any money from the network, either in the form of donations or other forms of financial support. Despite receiving confirmation from a team of lawyers, led by Sittra Biabungkerd, that the journalists’ association implicated was not the TJA, it investigated anyway. Moreover, the TJA has found no journalists’ association registered under the name indicated by Sittra. File photo : Lawyer Sittra Biabungkerd holds a press conference on Tuesday. Full story: Thai PBS 2024-03-28 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Luxury vans intentionally crash in Pattaya pub drama by Top Top Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Local police in Pattaya are unravelling a startling incident involving luxury vans carrying Chinese tourists intentionally crashing into each other outside a secretive pub early yesterday morning. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323447-luxury-vans-intentionally-crash-in-pattaya-pub-drama/

Local police in Pattaya are unravelling a startling incident involving luxury vans carrying Chinese tourists intentionally crashing into each other outside a secretive pub early yesterday morning. Police Colonel Nawin Theerawit, Pattaya’s police chief, revealed that the perpetrators could face charges of physical assault causing serious injury and attempted murder. According to the police chief, drivers purposefully collided with each other, resulting in a three-vehicle collision. One individual suffered a broken nose in the chaos, he confirmed. The tumult began when Chinese tourists arrived at the entertainment venue after closing time. Upon being advised to leave by the guards, the frustrated latecomers sought the assistance of boxer friends to confront the situation. “A brawl erupted, culminating in the shocking intentional crashes witnessed in an online video.” Assuring a thorough investigation, the police chief affirmed that charges would be based solely on the evidence at hand. The viral video, spanning two minutes and 15 seconds, portrays two Toyota Alphard vans and a Toyota Fortuner engaged in a disturbing altercation, reported Bangkok Post. In the footage, a policeman can be seen urgently summoning backup and reporting an injured man trapped beneath one of the vehicles. In related news, a 34 year old Thai woman recounted a horrifying assault outside a Pattaya pub, leaving her battered and bruised. The woman detailed the horrifying ordeal she endured at the hands of a group of tomboys and boys in the early hours of March 16. She shared how a seemingly innocent night turned into a nightmare, with her past relationship haunting her in the most violent of ways. In other news, a Chinese woman, allegedly lured and assaulted in a remote area near Pattaya, survived an attempt on her life after the assailant reportedly set the surrounding grassland on fire. The incident took place on February 18, and police have examined all available evidence, including CCTV footage from the day of the crime. by Top Top Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-28 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Good news about digital wallet scheme in April : Srettha PM Srettha Thavisin Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said today that there will be good news about the digital wallet scheme announced on April 10. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323446-good-news-about-digital-wallet-scheme-in-april-srettha/