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Convicted former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra will visit the Pheu Thai party on Tuesday, to provide an opportunity for the party’s MPs to meet with him, but he will not attend a party meeting. An informed party source said today that it will be more convenient for the MPs than visiting Thaksin’s private residence in Bangkok and it will be an opportunity for the MPs to offer him their moral support, while maintaining his and his family’s privacy. The source said that not all MPs will see him at the same time, but arrangements have been made for them to meet with him one at a time. The source also said that Thaksin’s visit to the party head office is causing some excitement among the MPs and most, if not all MPs will show up on Tuesday for the “special occasion”. 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

to continue: Thailand Live Monday 25 March 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1323161-thailand-live-monday-25-march-2024/

An Egyptian national was escorted by Phuket police to a hospital for psychiatric assessment last night, after he allegedly refused to pay a taxi fare, damaged driver’s cell phone, assaulted him and struck the taxi with an iron bar. Egyptian sent for psychiatric assessment after allegedly attacking Phuket taxi driver Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323160-egyptian-sent-for-psychiatric-assessment-after-allegedly-attacking-phuket-taxi-driver/

Egyptian Man Attacks Taxi Driver and Damages His Taxi in Phuket By Goongnang Suksawat Cherng Talay – An Egyptian man attacked a taxi driver and damaged his taxi car in Cherng Talay on Friday night (March 22nd). Captain Khajonkiet Kamwichairat of the Thalang Police told the Phuket Express that they were notified of the incident at 10:30 P.M. on the day in question from Mr. Suriya Plodmai, 34, from Nakhon Si Thammarat. He told police that a foreign man attacked him and damaged his taxi car in Soi Bang Tao 4/3. Police arrived at the scene to find the SUV taxi whose glass windows were damaged. The taxi driver and the foreign man who was later identified only as Mr. BASEM, 31, an Egyptian national, were waiting for police at the scene. Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 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

An Egyptian national was escorted by Phuket police to a hospital for psychiatric assessment last night, after he allegedly refused to pay a taxi fare, damaged driver’s cell phone, assaulted him and struck the taxi with an iron bar. The victim, Suriya Plodmai, told Thalang district police that he took the tourist from Patong Beach, in Krathu district, to his lodging at Banthao Beach, in Thalang district, early Saturday morning. On arrival at the lodging, the tourist borrowed the cabbie’s cell phone to call a friend, but refused to return it to the driver when asked. Instead, he allegedly went berserk. Suriya managed to escape from the tirade and called Thalang police, who arrived quickly. The tourist was apprehended and escorted to a hospital for assessment. The Egyptian Embassy in Bangkok was informed of the incident, so that its officials could contact the tourist’s family and arrange compensation for the taxi driver. Source: 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

UPDATE: Deputy police chief Big Joke evades charges by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation A fresh summons notice is plastered on the door of Deputy National Police Chief Surachate Hakparn aka Big Joke’s residence. The embattled deputy finds himself at the centre of a money-laundering storm, with authorities hot on his trail. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323067-big-joke-on-leave-from-govt-service-to-rest-with-family-in-uk/?do=findComment&comment=18787143

Deputy police chief Big Joke evades charges by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation A fresh summons notice is plastered on the door of Deputy National Police Chief Surachate Hakparn aka Big Joke’s residence. The embattled deputy finds himself at the centre of a money-laundering storm, with authorities hot on his trail. Big Joke’s former abode in a plush Bangkok neighbourhood became the scene of drama as officers from Thung Song Hong Police Station descended upon it, armed with the weighty summons. However, the deputy police chief maintains he’s no longer a resident there, deflecting attention from his current whereabouts. Despite attempts to dodge the media’s prying lenses, Big Joke was caught offering alms to monks near his former residence, refusing to pose for photographs, citing a plea for privacy. The events take a surprising twist as authorities reveal plans to deliver the summons to Big Joke’s new office at the Prime Minister’s Office, further highlighting the gravity of the allegations against him, reported The Nation. With both Big Joke and his superior, National Police Chief Police General Torsak Sukvimol, relegated to inactive posts, speculation runs rampant about the turmoil brewing within the Royal Thai Police. ORIGINAL STORY: Legal team denies Big Joke’s involvement with BNK Master The legal team of Deputy National Police Chief Surachate Hakparn aka Big Joke divulged that nearly 30 police officers are being implicated in a corruption scandal linked to an illicitly operated online gambling network known as BNK Master. The officers under scrutiny are thought to have been involved in receiving underhand payments from the network, which has also implicated Big Joke. Big Joke’s legal representative, Natthawit Netijarurote, stated that a comprehensive review of the evidence at hand and a thorough analysis of 34 bank accounts connected with the network has found no ties linking the 53 year old deputy national police chief to the BNK Master operation. “We only sought a warrant for a specific suspect.” Last week, the Criminal Court granted warrants for the apprehension of three officers and one civilian on the grounds of suspected money laundering linked to the BNK Master network which was dismantled last year. The individuals identified were Police Colonel Kittichai Sangkhathaworn, Police Sergeant Natthawut Wadwaew, Pol. Sgt. Natthanan Chuchak, and civilian Napansakorn Haekerd. There have been some reports suggesting that the court had also summoned a high-ranking officer, later recognised as Big Joke, about the allegations. However, these claims were refuted by his legal team. Natthawit stated that while the police had sought a warrant for Big Joke’s arrest, they failed to present sufficient evidence to warrant this action. There have been alleged attempts to discredit the deputy national police chief as he is currently the top contender for the position of national police chief, given that the incumbent chief is set to retire at the end of September. Police Chief Torsak National Police Chief Torsak Sukvimol disclosed that Big Joke has been requested to present himself at the Tao Poon Police Station tomorrow for questioning related to the BNK Master investigation. A formal notice was delivered to Big Joke’s residence last Sunday. Torsak added that, should a second notice be issued and the deputy chief fails to comply, an arrest warrant would be issued and Big Joke would be suspended from duty. Big Joke had previously contended that the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) had taken over the investigation of the Minnie online gambling network case, in which he was a suspect, reported Bangkok Post. Torsak clarified that the police had summoned Big Joke concerning the BNK Master case, which is a separate matter. Torsak further stated that the deputy police chief is suspected of money laundering in both cases. Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-23 - 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

E-cigarette manufacturers target students with new ‘toy pod’ trend by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The rise of a new breed of e-cigarettes, dubbed “toy pods” has sparked growing concern among academics. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323088-e-cigarette-manufacturers-target-students-with-new-‘toy-pod’-trend/

The rise of a new breed of e-cigarettes, dubbed “toy pods” has sparked growing concern among academics. This new variant, designed to resemble popular cartoon characters or toy miniatures, is targeted explicitly at school and university students. Srirach Lapyai, a project manager at the Tobacco Control Research and Knowledge Management Centre (TRC), shed light on this alarming trend. According to Srirach, e-cigarette manufacturers have adapted their products to mimic familiar toys, food items, and stationery, making them more appealing to young users. These toy pods are the fifth generation of e-cigarettes and contain up to 5% synthetic nicotine, capable of yielding up to 15,000 puffs. There are also collections available, featuring up to 12 different toy pods, each distinguished by unique colours denoting various flavours and scents. Srirach revealed the troubling extent of the trend. “It is startling to discover that these toy pod e-cigarettes have infiltrated even primary schools. We recently identified several first graders in possession of them.” She further explained that the design of the toy pods’ mouthpiece replicates a cute figurine, making it difficult to identify them as e-cigarettes at a glance. The director of the TRC, Vijj Kasemsup, condemned the marketing tactics used by these businesses, accusing them of exploiting social media platforms to appeal to younger audiences. A recent report found that 309 online vendors were illegally selling e-cigarettes via various social media channels, including X, Facebook, and Instagram, in just the first two months of the year. Dr Vijj expressed grave concerns over the potential health risks posed by nicotine in e-cigarettes, highlighting the possible adverse effects on children’s hearts, brains, concentration, and respiratory systems, as well as the risk of seizures and heart failure. He emphasised the necessity for continued government regulation banning the sale and importation of e-cigarettes. A proactive approach is needed to enforce these regulations, with 70 e-cigarette shops identified within 500 metres of schools and universities in Bangkok alone, reported Bangkok Post. Legal action against these establishments has been proposed as a means of enhancing safety measures. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-23 - 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

Songkran festival in Chiang Mai to draw in millions of tourists by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Anticipation builds as the Songkran festival in Chiang Mai, set to span 10 days, is projected to pull in millions of tourists, raking in an estimated 20 billion baht in revenue. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323083-songkran-festival-in-chiang-mai-to-draw-in-millions-of-tourists/

Anticipation builds as the Songkran festival in Chiang Mai, set to span 10 days, is projected to pull in millions of tourists, raking in an estimated 20 billion baht in revenue. This year’s observance of the festival, scheduled from April 7 to 17, is particularly special as it not only seeks to uphold the local Lanna culture but also marks the city’s 728th anniversary, shared Deputy Governor of Chiang Mai, Weerapong Rithrod, and the city’s Mayor, Assanee Buranupakorn. This year’s celebration stands apart from previous ones as the festival has recently been added to UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage list. Additionally, the Ministry of Culture has chosen the province as one of the five with the most iconic cultures and traditions. The festival will be a harmonious mix of cultural preservation and modern Songkran enjoyment activities, added Weerapong. Assanee emphasised that, alongside the preservation of cultures and traditions, the festival also aims to provide a significant boost to the province’s economy and tourism. He foresees the event attracting millions of domestic and international tourists to the province. Yet, not all is rosy. Paisarn Sukjarean, president of the Thai Hotels Association’s Upper Northern Chapter, shared that while foreign tourists have begun reserving hotel rooms in Chiang Mai, there has been a slower uptake among local tourists, possibly due to the prevailing air pollution in the province. Nonetheless, he remains optimistic, expecting a surge in local bookings as the festival nears. Smaller hotels and those within the three-to-four-star range are likely to be filled by Thai tourists, he expressed, with a confidence that 60% of hotel rooms will be occupied, reported Bangkok Post. To ensure the safety and security of festival-goers, preparations are underway by the Provincial police to deploy 1,500 officers in the Chiang Mai city area, while an additional 3,000 officers will be assigned to cover the entire province. In related news, Chiang Mai recently ascended to an undesirable top spot on the global stage as it experiences severe air pollution, making it the most polluted city in the world. The air quality in this northern Thai city has reached levels that pose significant health risks due to the pervasive spread of PM2.5 particles. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-23 - 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

Chao Phraya Princess enhances cruise services to boost tourism by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand’s tourism industry is witnessing a revival, with operators enhancing their services to attract the global inflow of tourists. A sought-after experience for many first-time visitors in Bangkok is a scenic cruise along the Chao Phraya River, the country’s main thoroughfare. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323079-chao-phraya-princess-enhances-cruise-services-to-boost-tourism/

Thailand’s tourism industry is witnessing a revival, with operators enhancing their services to attract the global inflow of tourists. A sought-after experience for many first-time visitors in Bangkok is a scenic cruise along the Chao Phraya River, the country’s main thoroughfare. Chao Phraya Princess, among the largest river cruise operators, has weathered several crises, including the Covid-19 pandemic. To survive in the competitive market, cruise operators continually innovate to offer unique experiences and superior services, stated Chatree Wangpanitkul, director of Tristar Floating Restaurant Co, the operator of Chao Phraya Princess cruises. This year, the company aims to regain 80% of its 2019 clientele, a target in line with the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s forecast. Tristar Floating Restaurant was established in 1990, evolving from a floating eatery to a dinner cruise service. Over the past three decades, Chao Phraya Princess and other pioneers have popularised dinner cruise packages, essential for Bangkok tourists. The cruise operator boasts eight vessels, with a collective capacity for 150 to 450 passengers, managed by a team of over 300 staff. However, the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 brought tourism to a standstill, with the company closing for a year due to restrictions and border closures. To survive the pandemic, Tristar had to downsize some of its staff, relying on part-time workers when operations resumed. Initially, domestic customers formed the bulk of its business during the border reopening. The company attributes its survival to quality service, attentive customer care, and strategic partnerships with reliable travel agents, leading to repeat clientele. Chao Phraya Princess closely monitors customer feedback, focusing on minute details, such as food and staff service to uphold its long-term reputation. Backpackers increase Post-pandemic, the company noted a surge in independent tourists, particularly those seeking unique activities and valuable experiences. Independent bookings for Chao Phraya Princess have increased from 20 to 30% pre-pandemic to 60% currently. To cater to the growing individual market, the company has diversified its offerings beyond dinner cruises. For instance, the latest project is a collaboration with online travel agent Klook and Michelin Guide’s Bib Gourmand vendor Jeh O, offering the famous Mama tom yum noodle. However, the competition among cruise services has intensified, with increasing market operators and escalating operational costs such as food and energy supply, thus reducing profit margins. To secure consistent bookings, the company prioritises attentive services, training its staff to actively engage with customers. Maintaining experienced staff, creating an appealing atmosphere, and adhering to safety protocols are the cornerstones of its cruise services. The company has shifted its sales and marketing services towards online channels, targeting direct bookings and online travel agents. Chao Phraya Princess operates five to eight boat trips daily, depending on customer demand, reported Bangkok Post. The company urges the government to continue promoting Thailand as a global tourism hub, offering a plethora of unique activities and developing new tourism attractions. by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-23 - 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

Scorching heat and thunderstorms ahead for Thailand, warns TMD by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of Stay in Thailand The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) forecasts a mix of scorching heat and thunderstorms over the next seven days, warning of potential heavy downpours affecting 30% of the area. The forecast, spanning from today until March 27, indicates that a westerly wind from Myanmar will pass through the northern and northeastern regions as well as upper Laos. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323078-scorching-heat-and-thunderstorms-ahead-for-thailand-warns-tmd/

The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) forecasts a mix of scorching heat and thunderstorms over the next seven days, warning of potential heavy downpours affecting 30% of the area. The forecast, spanning from today until March 27, indicates that a westerly wind from Myanmar will pass through the northern and northeastern regions as well as upper Laos. During this period, the northern region will experience thunderstorms accompanied by strong winds and possible hailstorms in some areas. The combination of easterly and southeasterly winds bringing moisture from the South China Sea and the Gulf of Thailand will contribute to these conditions. A low-pressure area caused by intense heat will cover the upper part of Thailand, resulting in hot weather with sporadic thunderstorms, particularly during the afternoon. The southeasterly winds expected to cover the lower northeastern, central, and eastern regions will also lead to isolated thunderstorms. Mariners in the Gulf of Thailand and the southern region are advised to navigate with caution during this time as the westerly and southeasterly winds, though weakening, will still result in thunderstorms in some areas. Sea waves in the Gulf are expected to be around one metre high, increasing in areas experiencing storms. Residents in the northern region are advised to be vigilant, as there is a risk of thunderstorms, strong winds, and hail. It is recommended to avoid open fields, large trees, unstable structures, and weak signage. Farmers should prepare to protect their crops and livestock from potential damage. People in the upper part of Thailand should take care of their health due to the expected hot conditions and be aware of the risk of thunderstorms. Northern thunderstorms The northern region can expect thunderstorms covering 10-30% of the area, strong winds, and occasional hail. Minimum temperatures will range from 19-25 degrees Celsius and maximum temperatures from 29-36 degrees Celsius. The weather will be predominantly hot with scattered thunderstorms, affecting roughly 10% of the lower parts of the region. Minimum temperatures will likely range from 16-26 degrees Celsius and maximum temperatures from 31-39 degrees Celsius. In the northeastern region, thunderstorms are predicted in 10-20% of the area, with minimum temperatures of 20-24 degrees Celsius and maximum temperatures of 28-37 degrees Celsius. Hot weather with occasional thunderstorms is expected, affecting 10-30% of the area, with temperatures ranging from 21-26 degrees Celsius at the low end and 32-39 degrees Celsius at the high end. The central region will also see thunderstorms in 10-20% of the area, with temperatures fluctuating between 22-25 degrees Celsius at the low end and 31-37 degrees Celsius at the high end. The hot weather will continue from March 23-27, with similar thunderstorm coverage and temperatures ranging from 25-28 degrees Celsius at the low end to 34-39 degrees Celsius at the high end. For Bangkok and its vicinity, thunderstorms are expected to affect 10-20% of the area from today, with minimum temperatures of 25-26 degrees Celsius and maximum temperatures of 29-36 degrees Celsius. The hot weather will persist from March 23-27, with thunderstorms affecting 10-30% of the area and temperatures ranging from 27-29 degrees Celsius at the low end to 32-38 degrees Celsius at the high end. As Thailand enters a week of weather contrasts, residents are urged to stay informed and prepared for the varying conditions. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of Stay in Thailand Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-23 - 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 woman escapes human trafficking ordeal in Cambodia by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A harrowing account of survival has emerged from a 37 year old Thai woman who fell victim to a human trafficking scheme that led her into the clutches of a call centre scam gang in Poipet, Cambodia. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323077-thai-woman-escapes-human-trafficking-ordeal-in-cambodia/

A harrowing account of survival has emerged from a 37 year old Thai woman who fell victim to a human trafficking scheme that led her into the clutches of a call centre scam gang in Poipet, Cambodia. Pai (pseudonym)’s ordeal began when an acquaintance lured her with the promise of a job that purportedly involved contacting Thais to assist with legal case procedures, offering a monthly salary of around 20,000 baht. However, upon arrival, the grim reality of her situation unfolded. Pai’s journey from her hometown in Chiang Rai to Bangkok and eventually to Aranyaprathet District in Sa Kaeo Province ended at a facility resembling a hotel but encircled by corrugated iron fencing. Inside, approximately 100 people worked at desks with computers and mobile phones. There, Pai learned the bitter truth: only the first month’s pay would be honoured, with subsequent earnings reduced to a commission of 6%. The call centre operation was run by Chinese nationals, and overseen by an ethnic Thai who spoke Thai and Chinese languages. Workers mechanically followed a script over the phone, convincing victims of fraudulent transactions or legal matters and then transferring the calls as part of a three-call scam. The workers were untrained and uninformed about the nature of their tasks until it was too late. Upon her refusal to participate in the deceitful activities, Pai faced brutal punishments, including physical assaults with chairs and electric batons, even as she pleaded for mercy. Stubborn in her resolve, Pai refused to scam her fellow Thais, enduring daily torment. She prayed to sacred entities for deliverance, promising to become a nun if rescued. Pai’s captors threatened her with more violence if she attempted to escape, and she witnessed other women being sold into prostitution for their defiance. Living conditions were dire, with ten people sharing a room and one communal bathroom. Meals were provided four times a day, but medical care was inaccessible. Chance to escape The opportunity for escape presented itself when police raids forced the gang to flee. Pai, seizing the moment amidst the chaos, concealed her passport and managed to escape with five others. They paid 2,500 baht each to secure their return to Thailand, reported KhaoSod. Reflecting on the two weeks of hellish conditions, Pai expressed her disbelief at the prospect of survival. The criminals’ mantra, “Are you defiant?” echoed as a constant reminder of her precarious situation. Pai, who previously struggled to make ends meet through construction work with her brothers, described her experience as jumping from the tiger’s den into the crocodile’s pond. Now, having narrowly escaped a fate worse than death, Pai seeks assistance from the Paveena Foundation to help her recover from the traumatic experience and move forward with her life. by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-23 - 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

PM Leads Volunteer Project to Clean Bangkok's Canals by Naark Rojanasuvan BANGKOK (NNT) - Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin led the inauguration of a comprehensive volunteer initiative to purify the waterways across Bangkok, targeting 50 districts and 200 canals. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323075-pm-leads-volunteer-project-to-clean-bangkoks-canals/

BANGKOK (NNT) - Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin led the inauguration of a comprehensive volunteer initiative to purify the waterways across Bangkok, targeting 50 districts and 200 canals. The endeavor celebrates the 72nd birthday anniversary of His Majesty King Rama the 10th this year. Adorned in the official volunteer uniform—a yellow shirt, yellow scarf, and a blue cap—bestowed by the royalty, the Prime Minister symbolized the solidarity between government officials and the public in executing social welfare tasks and fostering national pride. During the ceremony, Prime Minister Srettha articulated the King's noble vision for enhancing the well-being of the Thai people and the country's flourishing future. He highlighted the project's goals to foster societal love and unity and to establish a pristine and secure environment for the populace. Key activities of this initiative include debris removal, aquatic weed clearance, sidewalk painting and cleaning, and beautifying the canal surroundings to transform them into safe communal areas of the Phra Nakhon district. The collective contribution of all sectors, along with the dedication of volunteers and community members, is vital for the project's triumph. by Naark Rojanasuvan Source: NNT 2024-03-23 - 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

House passes 3.48 trillion baht budget bill for 2024 fiscal year Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin thanked members of the House of Representatives after they voted for the second and third readings of the government’s 3.48 trillion baht budget bill for the 2024 fiscal year which should have come into force since last October. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323073-house-passes-348-trillion-baht-budget-bill-for-2024-fiscal-year/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin thanked members of the House of Representatives after they voted for the second and third readings of the government’s 3.48 trillion baht budget bill for the 2024 fiscal year which should have come into force since last October. The House voted 298:166 in support of the budget, with one abstention and one MP who did not cast a vote. After the vote following the first reading, Srettha thanked the MPs of both the government and opposition camps, as he promised to consider their recommendations, as well as those made by the budget scrutiny committee, regarding adjustments to budget allocation for the benefit of the people. The budget bill will now be sent to the Senate for debate, scheduled to begin next Tuesday. Source: Thai PBS 2024-03-23 - 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’s PM Misses the Forest for the Trees on the Country’s Pollution Problem Srettha Thavisin has pledged to tackle Thailand’s horrific air pollution problem, but he needs to address the root of the problem. By Mark S. Cogan File photo Thailand’s Chiang Mai now has airborne pollutants that are 20 times higher than the World Health Organization (WHO) standard. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323072-thailand’s-pm-misses-the-forest-for-the-trees-on-the-country’s-pollution-problem/

Srettha Thavisin has pledged to tackle Thailand’s horrific air pollution problem, but he needs to address the root of the problem. Thailand’s Chiang Mai now has airborne pollutants that are 20 times higher than the World Health Organization (WHO) standard. Last week, Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin declined to designate the northern city as a disaster area in order to protect the country’s tourism sector. In an announcement on X (formerly Twitter), Srettha expressed worries that the announcement would “affect the number of foreign tourists when tourism has just recovered in the wake of COVID-19.” Some questioned the optics of the decision, suggesting that the Thai government instead focus more on the health and quality of life of its residents. A declaration of a disaster zone would have entitled the province to emergency funds for mitigation purposes. Srettha’s decision is crudely pragmatic and arguably shortsighted. What is more beneficial to Chiang Mai, and the north of Thailand as a whole, is the acceleration of sustainable solutions to a problem that transcends provincial and national borders and has a long-term effect on the health the Thai public, as well as impacting Thailand’s reputation as a premier tourist destination. The scourge of PM2.5 pollution, or harmful particulate matter that measure 2.5 microns or less in diameter, is much more widespread than in just Chiang Mai alone, and will not be solved without a combined whole-of-government and private sector solution. First, the particulate matter comes from a number of sources: transportation, energy, agricultural burning, and industrial sources. The result is a dreary and toxic haze that is dispersed from its origin to neighboring areas. By Mark S. Cogan File photo Full story: THE DIPLOMAT 2024-03-23 - 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

Big Joke" Submits Leave Application, Returning April 1st Big Joke has submitted a leave application to the Prime Minister's Office to travel abroad with his family, returning on April 1st - while investigators have sent three summonses. News outlets reported that Lt. Gen. Surachate Hakparn, Deputy Commander of the Royal Thai Police, currently serving at the Prime Minister's Office, was summoned by investigators from Thung Song Hong Police Station for the second time to his residence in the Viphavadi area, reported INN. However, he was not found there. Instead, rumors circulated that Lt. Gen. Surachate had gone to make merit and later requested official leave to travel to England, planning to return on April 1st. Reports indicate that summonses from investigators were sent not only to his residence in the Viphavadi area but also to his residence in Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province, and the Prime Minister's Office, totaling three locations. According to regulations, Lt. Gen. Surachate is under the authority of Teerapong Wongsiwawilas, Secretary-General of the Prime Minister's Office. Therefore, any leave must comply with the regulations of the Prime Minister's Office, with approval from the Secretary-General, unrelated to the National Police Bureau, as he was ordered to assist in duties at the Prime Minister's Office, similar to Lt. Gen. Thitirat Sukhawan, Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police. Most recently, Lt. Gen. Surachate posted a message on his Facebook page, "Surachate Hakparn," saying, "Hello everyone. Today, various media outlets have reported that I will hold a press conference on April 1st. I confirm that I am disciplined and will not hold any press conferences. Regarding my leave, everything has been arranged, and I will travel with my family, returning on April 1st, 2024." -- ASEAN NOW 2024-03-23 - 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 your business in front of millions of customers who read ASEAN NOW with an interest in Thailand every month - email marketing[at]aseannow.com for more information Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

"Big Joke" on leave from govt service to rest with family in UK Picture: Siam Rath At noon on March 22nd, Police Lieutenant General Surachate disclosed to the press via telephone that today, as prearranged, Police Lieutenant General Torsak Sukwimol, the Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police, informed Mr. Theerapong Wongsiwawilas, the Secretary to the Prime Minister's Office, about his scheduled leave. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323067-big-joke-on-leave-from-govt-service-to-rest-with-family-in-uk/