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As Thailand’s tourism industry roars back to full speed, and attracting many new nationalities to the Land of Smiles, there has been a noticeable uptick in cases reported involving foreigners violating the law. Statistically, the rise has not been significant, but the reporting and social media frenzy over recent incidents, is spurring the police and Thai immigration officials into a reactive stance. “Strictly screen foreigners entering and leaving the Kingdom”, Deputy Chief of police Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323240-“strictly-screen-foreigners-entering-and-leaving-the-kingdom”-deputy-chief-of-police/

UPDATE: Metropolitan Police Bureau investigate Thai policewoman’s abuse by Mitch Connor Picture of Chontaros Sukdayotin courtesy of Bangkok Post A distressing online complaint from a Thai policewoman, newly inducted into the force, has prompted an investigation by the Metropolitan Police Bureau in Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323187-police-officer-suffers-from-depression-after-enduring-abuse-during-training/?do=findComment&comment=18791724

Metropolitan Police Bureau investigate Thai policewoman’s abuse by Mitch Connor Picture of Chontaros Sukdayotin courtesy of Bangkok Post A distressing online complaint from a Thai policewoman, newly inducted into the force, has prompted an investigation by the Metropolitan Police Bureau in Thailand. The recruit alleges that she suffered continuous physical and mental abuse during her initial training year, leading to a depressive mental state. A police spokesperson has confirmed the knowledge of the complaint, posted on Sunday evening, and assured immediate assistance and investigation. Royal Thai Police (RTP) Office spokesperson Police Lieutenant General Archayon Kraithong, confirmed today, March 25, that the recruit is currently under the protective care of her family, with no adverse incidents noted. He also acknowledged that the policewoman, holding the rank of lance corporal, was grappling with depression and was under treatment, receiving suitable medication. The investigation, he assured, would be thorough, and swift, and the findings would be made public by the national police office, stated Pol. Lt. Gen. Archayon. “Depression is not an unfamiliar ailment among police officers, with many undergoing treatment at the Police General Hospital.” The national police office also offers counselling for depression through its Depress We Care Facebook page and a dedicated hotline. Disturbing post The issue came to the fore following a Facebook post by the 25 year old policewoman, Police Lieutenant Corporal Chontaros Sukdayotin. The disturbing post detailed the abuse she had endured during her initial year with the police force, including an incident where her head was accidentally kicked at a camp. The post echoed the tone of a suicide note. Upon her recovery and return to Naresuan camp in Phetchaburi province, she was subjected to continuous physical and mental punishment by her trainers. She spoke of being verbally abused and physically assaulted, with her lower legs beaten with ropes and being commanded to perform headstands. Forced to work night shifts, she was unable to rest as per medical advice, reported Bangkok Post. Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-25 - 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

Chinese EV investments in Thailand linked to zero dollar tours by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Unsplash Chinese Electric Vehicle (EV) makers’ investments in Thailand have sparked comparison with a notorious scam, the zero dollar tours, among some industry insiders. The scam, which came into the limelight in 2016, involved Chinese tourists being enticed with inexpensive tour packages in Thailand, only to be compelled to purchase overpriced souvenirs and services. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323218-chinese-ev-investments-in-thailand-linked-to-zero-dollar-tours/

Chinese Electric Vehicle (EV) makers’ investments in Thailand have sparked comparison with a notorious scam, the zero dollar tours, among some industry insiders. The scam, which came into the limelight in 2016, involved Chinese tourists being enticed with inexpensive tour packages in Thailand, only to be compelled to purchase overpriced souvenirs and services. The parallel is being drawn because Chinese EV companies not only manufacture EVs in Thailand but also import producers of EV components to establish an EV supply chain in the country. This leaves local firms out of the loop, similar to the zero dollar tours where only Chinese tour operators and shop owners profited, said Saroge Vasuvanich, honorary vice-president of Thai Summit Group Plc. “Chinese EV investment reminded me of zero dollar tours because the Chinese firms do not buy products from Thai companies.” However, not all industry leaders share this sentiment. The Thai Automotive Industry Association (TAIA) believes that the arrival of Chinese producers of EV components is vital for the nascent industry since local auto parts makers lack knowledge of electric mobility technology, said Suwat Supakandechakul, TAIA President. “We have to accept that EV technology is new in Thailand and the government needs to draw foreign investors, mostly Chinese, specialising in the technology to jointly build an EV infrastructure.” In the long run, the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI)’s Automotive Industry Club expects local firms to see clearer business opportunities as Chinese EV makers may consider outsourcing, similar to traditional automakers from Japan, Europe and the US. Zero dollar tour Thailand’s own EV maker, Horizon Plus, a joint venture between PTT Plc’s wholly-owned Arun Plus and Taiwan-based Hon Hai Precision Industry Co, concurs with this outlook, said Buranin Rattanasombat, PTT’s chief new business and infrastructure officer and chairman of Horizon Plus. “We are in the early stages of the EV market, so it is not easy to analyse whether the zero dollar tour phenomenon will happen in this segment.” Meanwhile, Energy Absolute Plc (EA), a pioneer in the Thai EV industry, views the entry of Chinese EV component makers as normal business competition, said Amorn Sapthaweekul, deputy chief executive of EA. “EV assemblers need to partner with reliable parts suppliers and manufacturers who can offer quality products at competitive prices, as well as good after-sales services.” The shift towards EVs has prompted both the state and private sectors to aid local auto parts makers in accessing the EV supply chain. Government agencies, including the Board of Investment (BoI), and the FTI are encouraging car companies to use domestically manufactured EV components and transfer technology know-how to auto parts makers. The Board of Investment of Thailand (BoI) has provided tax incentives to 103 projects worth 77.1 billion baht in EV-related segments. The projects encompass EV assembly, battery manufacturing and EV charging stations. On the other hand, the FTI is joining forces with EV makers, including Chinese companies, to assist local auto parts makers with EV technology transfer under a project overseen by the Cluster of FTI Future Mobility-ONE, said Vithavat Thongves, secretary-general of the FTI’s Automotive Industry Club. “We are working with various brands to equip auto parts manufacturers, as well as students with EV know-how.” Despite the challenges, the industry remains optimistic about the growth of the EV sector in Thailand. The country has the potential to produce up to 2 million cars a year, making it a promising hub for EV manufacturing. by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Unsplash Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-25 - 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

Transport ministry investigating 10,600+ complaints about taxis By Peter Roche FILE PHOTO Thailand’s Transport Ministry says it’s considering new measures to address a raft of complaints about taxis after a huge number of complaints in a 6 month period. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323217-transport-ministry-investigating-10600-complaints-about-taxis/

Thailand’s Transport Ministry says it’s considering new measures to address a raft of complaints about taxis after a huge number of complaints in a 6 month period. According to a Nation Thailand report, the ministry has received over 10,600 complaints from taxi passengers. In response, officials say they plan to introduce measures to improve taxi services to ensure they are “convenient, safe, and reasonably priced”. It’s understood 10,687 complaints received via the Passenger Protection Centre 1584 helpline between October 2023 and February 2024 related to taxis. By Peter Roche Top: FILE PHOTO Full story: PhuketGO 2024-03-25 - 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 govt releases 1.35 trillion baht from 2024 budget by Alex Morgan Comptroller-General Patricia Mongkhonvanit, courtesy of Embassy of Denmark in Thailand Between October 1, 2023, and March 8, a whopping 1.35 trillion baht has been released from the 2024 fiscal budget by the Thailand government, according to data from the Comptroller-General’s Department. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323215-thailand-govt-releases-135-trillion-baht-from-2024-budget/

Between October 1, 2023, and March 8, a whopping 1.35 trillion baht has been released from the 2024 fiscal budget by the Thailand government, according to data from the Comptroller-General’s Department. Comptroller-General’s Department Director-General Patricia Mongkhonvanit explained that the 2024 Expenditure Budget Act draft is still under review by the House of Representatives. In such scenarios, the Budget Bureau’s Budgetary Procedure Act allows the government to tap into the previous fiscal budget act to fill funding gaps, without exceeding two-thirds of the total expenditure. This measure aims to ensure uninterrupted operations. However, this is only applicable to projects with signed contracts when it comes to investment expenditure. The Budget Bureau, based on the fiscal 2023 budget, allocated an expenditure budget of 1.83 trillion baht for the period while the 2024 budget is under scrutiny, as per Patricia. The regular expenditure accounted for 1.68 trillion baht, while the investment expenditure stood at 155 billion baht from this total. So far, 75.5% of the total regular expenditure budget, equating to 1.26 trillion baht, has been disbursed, and 52.7% of the total investment budget, amounting to 81.9 billion baht, has been disbursed. Disbursements will be divided into instalments based on project success, Patricia added. Looking at the investment budget, the Budget Bureau disbursed 52.7% of the allocated funds from October 1, 2023, to March 8, 2024. This is a significant increase compared to 32.6% for the same period in fiscal 2023. The usage of the previous fiscal year’s expenditure budget has been authorised by the bureau for the period from October 2023 to May 2024, while the fiscal 2024 Budget Act awaits enactment. The Comptroller-General’s Department previously implemented several measures to speed up the fiscal 2024 budget expenditure, such as decentralising the authority to address appeals at the regional level. This action was taken to resolve issues related to unsuccessful government project bidders’ appeals, which had led to a halt in investment projects until the appeal outcome was decided. The 2024 expenditure budget draft calls for a total budget of 3.48 trillion baht, indicating another deficit year for the government. To balance the deficit, a borrowing of 693 billion baht has been proposed in the budget plan. For fiscal 2024, the investment expenditure, aimed at stimulating the economy, is set at 717 billion baht. The department has set a disbursement target of 75% for investment expenditure in fiscal 2024, reported Bangkok Post. by Alex Morgan TOP: Comptroller-General Patricia Mongkhonvanit, courtesy of Embassy of Denmark in Thailand Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-25 - 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

Two Thai employees die, another injured in factory explosion in Taiwan Two Thai workers were killed and another seriously injured in an explosion at an aluminium factory in Taiwan on Saturday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323213-two-thai-employees-die-another-injured-in-factory-explosion-in-taiwan/

Two Thai workers were killed and another seriously injured in an explosion at an aluminium factory in Taiwan on Saturday. The three Thais were among six employees who sustained injuries in the explosion at the Juei Feng aluminium factory in the Hu Noei area. Two Thais were later pronounced dead, while the third is now in a stable condition following surgery. The Thai labour office near the aluminium plant is working on compensation and other benefits for the victims. Full story: Thai PBS 2024-03-25 - 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 grapples with surge in illegal foreign workers in tourism by Alex Morgan Picture of foreign workers courtesy of ASEAN Now The Labour Ministry of Thailand has expressed worries over the persistent issue of foreigners being unlawfully employed within the country’s tourism sector. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323212-thailand-grapples-with-surge-in-illegal-foreign-workers-in-tourism/

The Labour Ministry of Thailand has expressed worries over the persistent issue of foreigners being unlawfully employed within the country’s tourism sector. Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn revealed that the ministry has been vigilantly tracking the situation and has reported a steady increase in the number of illegal foreign workers. From October 2023 to February 2024, as many as 13,424 foreigners were found to be working in the country without proper legal documentation. The unsettling trend shows no signs of abating, with the number of illegal foreign workers escalating from 35,258 in fiscal 2022 to 42,520 in fiscal 2023, as indicated by the Employment Department’s records. The 68 year old Phiphat pointed out that many of these individuals were found to be engaged in jobs reserved for Thai citizens, including roles such as tour guides and barbers. In a bid to curb this illegal employment, the government prosecuted 505 foreigners who were found guilty of working without the necessary permits. The majority of these offenders hailed from neighbouring countries such as Myanmar, Cambodia, and Laos, and were most frequently employed as sales clerks, street vendors, construction workers, and barbers. In addition, Phiphat stated that the ministry has been collaborating with the Immigration Bureau and Commerce Ministry to crack down on businesses run by foreigners. In fiscal 2023, the government scrutinised 42,520 foreign workers across all provinces, resulting in the prosecution of 1,641 individuals. On a positive note, the ministry is also working on an initiative to elevate the minimum wage in ten key tourism provinces. This move is seen as a proactive measure to boost the industry, which is slowly regaining momentum and is expected to mirror activity levels seen in 2019. The targeted provinces for this wage increase are Bangkok, Phuket, Chon Buri, Chiang Mai, Surat Thani, Krabi, Songkhla, Phang Nga, Prachuap Khiri Khan, and Rayong. A comprehensive study was conducted among operators and employees in 950 tourism businesses and venues to determine a suitable wage structure. For larger enterprises with more than 50 employees, between three to five staff were interviewed, while for companies with more than 100 employees, a sample of ten staff members was surveyed. The tripartite wage committee is set to convene tomorrow to review the findings from the study, with an announcement on the wage hike expected by Songkran. by Alex Morgan Picture of foreign workers courtesy of ASEAN Now Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-25 - 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 tensions thaw as peace talks resume between NSC and BRN by Mitch Connor Peace Dialogue Panel members (from left): Chatchai Bangchuad, Thailand’s chief negotiator, General Zulkifli Zainal Abidin, Malaysian facilitator, and Anas Abdulrahman, announce progress in the talks to achieve peace in the Deep South. Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Peace talks between Thailand’s National Security Council (NSC) and the Barisan Revolusi Nasional (BRN) are set to continue next month, despite recent setbacks, according to deputy spokeswoman Rudklao Suwankiri. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323204-thai-tensions-thaw-as-peace-talks-resume-between-nsc-and-brn/

Peace talks between Thailand’s National Security Council (NSC) and the Barisan Revolusi Nasional (BRN) are set to continue next month, despite recent setbacks, according to deputy spokeswoman Rudklao Suwankiri. This announcement follows a series of arson attacks on March 22 in Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat and Songkhla, and indications that 45 other locations are likely targets during the holy month of Ramadan. Rudklao emphasised the need for the BRN to halt the attacks in the Deep South, stating that the ongoing peace negotiations would benefit both Thai and Malaysian teams, given Malaysia’s role as a facilitator in the process. The NSC deputy secretary-general, Chatchai Bangchuad, who heads the government’s team, revealed that the two sides are due to hold a technical-level discussion at the end of April to discuss the Joint Comprehensive Plan towards Peace (JCPP). Previous discussions took place on February 20 and March 7–8, resulting in some positive feedback, despite areas of disagreement. According to Chatchai, both parties had agreed in principle on the JCPP’s details, with the BRN agreeing to guidelines concerning the legal framework for allegations and a cessation of violent attacks. “This is a positive sign that there is still a discussion process.” The upcoming meeting in April is expected to see further progress on the technical details, with the 2022 General Principles of the Peace Dialogue Process focusing on reducing violence, public discussion and potential political solutions. Addressing last week’s arson attacks in the four southern border provinces, Rudklao suggested that insurgents’ motivations may include a desire to demonstrate their discontent with the ongoing peace talks between the BRN and the Thai government. These 45 incidents primarily targeted the business sector, reported Bangkok Post. In related news earlier this month, the Thai government has committed to transforming the country’s three southernmost provinces into global tourist attractions and increasing investment in this region. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin gave this assurance during a three-day visit to Narathiwat, Pattani, and Yala. by Mitch Connor TOP: Peace Dialogue Panel members (from left): Chatchai Bangchuad, Thailand’s chief negotiator, General Zulkifli Zainal Abidin, Malaysian facilitator, and Anas Abdulrahman, announce progress in the talks to achieve peace in the Deep South. Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-25 - 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-China high-speed rail set to boost ASEAN connectivity by Mitch Connor Aerial photo shows a construction site of the China-Thailand railway in Nakhon Ratchasima province, Thailand. Picture courtesy of Xinhua Chinese Ambassador Han Zhiqiang projected a significant enhancement in the collaboration between Thailand and China upon the conclusion of the anticipated high-speed rail project. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323202-thai-china-high-speed-rail-set-to-boost-asean-connectivity/

Chinese Ambassador Han Zhiqiang projected a significant enhancement in the collaboration between Thailand and China upon the conclusion of the anticipated high-speed rail project. The statement came during a seminar addressing the economic ties between the two nations and the Thai-China visa-free agreement, held by the Thai-Chinese Journalists Association recently. The ambassador emphasised that the completion of the Thai-China high-speed rail would bolster Thailand’s connectivity with Laos, China, and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) at large, given Thailand’s strategic location linking to various regions. The Thai-China high-speed rail project, overseen by the Transport Ministry, is projected to be fully operational by 2028. The Nong Khai-Vientiane section is set to be the first completed segment of the rail line. The project committee is especially keen on accelerating the 7.3-kilometre stretch, estimated to cost around US$3 billion. The State Railway of Thailand is conducting a feasibility study on this project. The final design selection for the project will occur this year, and bidding for the project will commence in 2025. The rail line, extending over 606 kilometres, will link the city of Nong Khai and Bangkok within the Thai section. The high-speed train will eventually expand to connect Laos and China. Ambassador Han also underscored the potential impact of the transport project and policies such as the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership in opening new opportunities for Thai-China collaboration. The need for discussions to upgrade the ASEAN-China Free Trade Agreement (ACFTA) was also stressed, as such an upgrade could amplify cooperation in numerous sectors. The ACFTA, operational since 2004, has gradually reduced import duties. According to the agreement, normal track goods will eventually have a zero final rate, while sensitive track items will receive import duty cuts or exemptions at a later stage. The Foreign Trade Department highlighted the beneficial influence of the ACFTA on Thai exports to China, specifically processed sugar items like syrup, artificial honey, and various sweeteners. Over the last decade, Thailand’s processed sugar exports to China have surged by 145% annually. Ronnarong Phoolpipat, the department’s director-general, acknowledged China as the primary export market for agricultural products, accounting for 42% of total shipments. The high demand products include processed sugars, excluding raw sugar, such as syrup, artificial honey, caramel, and other sweeteners, widely used in food, beverages, and pharmaceutical sectors, reported Bangkok Post. by Mitch Connor TOP: Aerial photo shows a construction site of the China-Thailand railway in Nakhon Ratchasima province, Thailand. Picture courtesy of Xinhua Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-25 - 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

Mysterious demise of young woman in Samut Songkhram sparks police probe by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of สยามนิวส์ A 22 year old woman was found dead and partially undressed in her home in Samut Songkhram Province, prompting a police investigation into the mysterious circumstances surrounding her demise. The incident occurred yesterday evening, and the police were alerted at 7.30pm yesterday, March 23. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323200-mysterious-demise-of-young-woman-in-samut-songkhram-sparks-police-probe/

by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of สยามนิวส์ A 22 year old woman was found dead and partially undressed in her home in Samut Songkhram Province, prompting a police investigation into the mysterious circumstances surrounding her demise. The incident occurred yesterday evening, and the police were alerted at 7.30pm yesterday, March 23. The deceased, known only as Ajchara, was discovered lying on her bed, wearing a white shirt with the lower part of her body uncovered, and a pink cartoon-patterned blanket over her waist. The scene in the one-story concrete house, which had the bedroom built onto the back and a bathroom attached, showed no signs of struggle or search. A pair of white trousers lay to the right of the body, a glass of water to the left, with a mobile phone charger and a green comb nearby. Several stuffed animals were propped against the window. The initial examination of the body revealed no wounds, and it was estimated that Ajchara had been dead for approximately two days. Sommai, the 57 year old deceased’s mother-in-law, recounted that she noticed a foul smell while watering plants behind the house and realized she hadn’t seen her daughter-in-law that day. She called for her husband to check the room, which was unlocked, only to find Ajchara deceased. Suwit, the 59 year old stepfather of the deceased’s husband, mentioned that he last saw Ajchara the previous evening, March 22, eating dinner and conversing as usual before everyone went to sleep. He thought nothing of not seeing her the following morning, assuming she was in her room, a routine habit. Further inquiries revealed that Ajchara’s husband was incarcerated at Samut Sakhon Province Prison, and the stepfather had been staying at the house for about one month and five days, confined to his room. The peculiar fact that Ajchara was found undressed from the waist down, given her noted attractiveness and good physique, raised suspicions, reported KhaoSod. Investigators collected various pieces of evidence for detailed examination and sent the body for a thorough autopsy at the Police Hospital’s Forensic Institute to determine whether there were any signs of sexual assault and the cause of death. All relevant individuals have been summoned for questioning to gather evidence and ascertain the true cause behind this tragic event. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of สยามนิวส์ Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-25 - 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

Significant expansion planned for Thailand’s Red Line rail network by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of SRT Electrified Train Company Limited The State Railway of Thailand‘s (SRT) Red Line electric commuter rail network is set to undergo a significant expansion, according to Deputy Transport Minister Surapong Piyachote. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323199-significant-expansion-planned-for-thailand’s-red-line-rail-network/

The State Railway of Thailand‘s (SRT) Red Line electric commuter rail network is set to undergo a significant expansion, according to Deputy Transport Minister Surapong Piyachote. The Transport Ministry will put forth proposals for the construction of three extensions this week: the Taling Chan-Salaya extension, the Rangsit-Thammasat University, Rangsit Campus extension, and the Taling Chan-Siriraj extension. The proposals will be presented once the ministry has received responses from the Finance Ministry, Budget Bureau and the Office of the National Economic and Social Development Council. The first proposed extension will connect Taling Chan and Salaya, spanning a distance of 14.8 kilometres. The planned route includes six stations: Rama VI, Bang Kruai-Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand, Ban Chimphi, Kanchanaphisek, Sala Thammasop, and Salaya. The estimated cost for this extension is around 10.67 billion baht. The Rangsit-Thammasat University Rangsit Campus extension, the second proposed extension, will cover 8.84km. This route includes four stations: Khlong Nueng, Bangkok University, Chiang Rak and Thammasat University Rangsit Campus. The estimated cost for this project is about 6.47 billion baht. The third extension proposal is the Taling Chan-Siriraj extension, spanning 5.7km. This route plans for three stations: Taling Chan Floating Market, Charan Sanitwong, and Thon Buri-Siriraj. The cost estimate for this extension is 4.6 billion baht. Bidding for these three expansion projects is predicted to take place this year, with construction slated to take 35 months, from 2025 to 2028. Services on these extensions are predicted to begin in 2028. Deputy Minister Surapong also mentioned pushing for seven additional double-track railway upgrades. The cabinet has already greenlit the 167-kilometre Khon Kaen-Nong Khai railway, with an allocated budget of 29.7 billion baht. Bidding for this project is currently in progress, and construction is forecasted to begin later this year. The SRT’s board has also approved three other projects. These include the 281-kilometre Pak Nam Pho-Den Chai railway upgrade valued at 81.14 billion baht, the 308-kilometre Thanon Jira-Ubon Ratchathani railway upgrade valued at 44.10 billion baht, and the 45-kilometre Hat Yai Junction-Padang Besar railway upgrade valued at 7.9 billion baht. The remaining projects will be presented to the cabinet this year, reported Bangkok Post. by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of SRT Electrified Train Company Limited Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-25 - 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

Child abuse case surfaces involving stepmother and malnourished 5-year-old by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of ร้อยเรื่องเมืองร้อยด่านอุบลราชธานี Facebook A five year old child was allegedly subjected to abuse by their stepmother, who reportedly left bruises and signs of malnutrition on the child’s body. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323197-child-abuse-case-surfaces-involving-stepmother-and-malnourished-5-year-old/

A five year old child was allegedly subjected to abuse by their stepmother, who reportedly left bruises and signs of malnutrition on the child’s body. The 31 year old biological mother, Jiraporn, has filed a police report against the 34 year old stepmother, identified as Fon. The 32 year old child’s father, Warut, previously won a lottery prize of 12 million baht in 2018 but has reportedly neglected his children’s care. Jiraporn reported that her son, referred to here as B, showed signs of physical harm and poor health when he was returned to her on March 14. B was found to have an enlarged spleen and liver, as well as a pale complexion indicative of nutritional deficiencies. He was subsequently admitted to Sapphasitprasong Hospital in Ubon Ratchathani province for treatment. Before the incident, Warut, who had separated from his first wife and was living with Fon, his third partner, took B and another child to live in Chumphon province. On March 14, Warut returned both children to his mother’s house in Det Udom district by train. Jiraporn retrieved her son and, noticing the signs of abuse, took him to a local hospital before transferring him to Sapphasitthiprasong Hospital. Upon investigation, the police officer, Thongriam Siangwan took the complaint and initiated an inquiry. B’s half-sibling, referred to as A, mentioned that the abuse occurred because the stepmother was often in a bad mood, sometimes resorting to physical discipline when A took food for B. During their time with the stepmother and father, the children endured hardship, confined to a rubber plantation where their father worked as a tapper. On some days, their meals consisted only of rice with fish sauce. Unable to care for his sons adequately, Warut decided to send them back to their hometown in Det Udom, Ubon Ratchathani province. Police officials have acknowledged the complaint and, together with multi-disciplinary professionals, will interview both children before referring the case to the police in Chawee district, Chumphon province, for further legal action against the stepmother. Fon, who ran an online business and gold savings scheme, reportedly could not sustain her business and fled to Chumphon, reported KhaoSod. It was also revealed that Warut had been a lottery winner, claiming 12 million baht (US$ 330,000) in 2018, but despite this fortune, he separated from B’s mother, his second wife, and began a new life with Fon, neglecting his parental responsibilities. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of ร้อยเรื่องเมืองร้อยด่านอุบลราชธานี Facebook Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-25 - 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 grapples with scorching heat and sporadic thunderstorms by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Thailand is currently experiencing a period of intense heat, with many areas also facing sporadic thunderstorms. The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued a 24-hour forecast indicating that a low-pressure system, stemming from the prevailing heat, is covering the upper parts of the country. This system is expected to bring very hot weather and isolated thunderstorms throughout the day. The general public is advised to take precautions and look after their health due to the extreme heat. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323195-thailand-grapples-with-scorching-heat-and-sporadic-thunderstorms/

Thailand is currently experiencing a period of intense heat, with many areas also facing sporadic thunderstorms. The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued a 24-hour forecast indicating that a low-pressure system, stemming from the prevailing heat, is covering the upper parts of the country. This system is expected to bring very hot weather and isolated thunderstorms throughout the day. The general public is advised to take precautions and look after their health due to the extreme heat. The southern and southeast winds are carrying moisture from the Gulf of Thailand and the South China Sea to the lower northeastern, lower central, and eastern regions of Thailand. This influx of moisture could lead to thunderstorms in some areas. People in the upper parts of Thailand are urged to be cautious of the potential dangers posed by these thunderstorms during this period. In the seas, the east and southeast winds are affecting the Gulf of Thailand, the southern region, and the Andaman Sea. These conditions are expected to lead to thunderstorms in some areas of the south, with wave heights in the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea reaching about 1 metre. In areas experiencing thunderstorms, waves could exceed 1 metre. Fishermen are advised to avoid sailing in these conditions. Additionally, the upper northern parts, the lower northeastern region, the central region, including Bangkok and its vicinity, and the eastern region, continue to experience moderate to high levels of dust particles/smog. This is due to weakening winds in these areas and poor air circulation. The weather forecast for Thailand from 6am today to 6am tomorrow predicts hot weather with patchy clouds in the daytime for the northern region, with minimum temperatures ranging from 17 to 25 degrees Celsius and maximum temperatures hitting 36 to 40 degrees Celsius. Southwest winds are expected to travel at speeds of 5 to 15 kilometres per hour. In the lower northeastern region, hot weather with patchy clouds during the day is anticipated, along with a 10% chance of thunderstorms in areas including Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Kalasin, Mukdahan, Yasothon, Amnat Charoen, and Ubon Ratchathani. Minimum temperatures are forecast to be 22 to 25 degrees Celsius with maximums of 36 to 38 degrees Celsius and southwest winds at 10 to 15 kilometres per hour. Temperature rises The central region is also set to experience very hot weather, with light rain in some lower parts. Minimum temperatures are expected to be 24 to 26 degrees Celsius, with maximums reaching 37 to 40 degrees Celsius, and southern winds at 10 to 15 kilometres per hour. In the eastern region, hot weather with patchy clouds during the day is forecast for the upper parts, with a 20% chance of thunderstorms, particularly in Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat. Minimum temperatures could be 24 to 26 degrees Celsius, with maximums of 33 to 37 degrees Celsius, and southerly winds at speeds of 10 to 30 kilometres per hour. Sea waves are expected to be less than 1 metre high but could exceed 1 metre in stormy areas. For the southern region (east coast), hot daytime weather with a 10% chance of thunderstorms is predicted, mainly affecting Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, and Nakhon Si Thammarat. Minimum temperatures may range from 23 to 25 degrees Celsius, with highs of 33 to 38 degrees Celsius, and southeast winds at 15 to 30 kilometres per hour. Sea waves are likely to be about 1 metre high, with higher waves in stormy areas. In the southern region (west coast), hot daytime weather with light rain in some places is expected. Minimum temperatures could be 24 to 26 degrees Celsius, with maximums of 35 to 38 degrees Celsius, and easterly winds at 15 to 30 kilometres per hour. Sea waves are anticipated to be about 1 metre high, with higher waves in stormy areas further from the coast, reported KhaoSod. In Bangkok and its vicinity, hot weather with patchy clouds during the day is forecast, with a 10% chance of thunderstorms. Minimum temperatures are expected to be 26 to 28 degrees Celsius, with maximums of 34 to 37 degrees Celsius. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-25 - 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