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Northern Thailand, specifically the provinces of Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Mae Hong Son, are bracing for severe PM2.5 air pollution. These areas, surrounded by mountains and hills, have previously been rated as the most polluted globally. The pollution crisis has strained the public healthcare system and forced locals to invest in air purifiers and face masks for protection. While some residents can afford private health insurance, many cannot. Opposition political parties, medical professionals, and civic groups have called on the government to consider recognising these provinces as disaster areas. However, the government is reluctant to do so, aware of the potential long-term impact on tourism if the areas gain a reputation for poor air quality. The fiscal budget allocation delay, from October 2023 to likely the following month, has intensified the debate. Opposition parties argue that declaring Chiang Mai a disaster area would grant the province additional funds to control the forest fires causing much of the pollution. However, the government and some locals argue against this. They worry that insurance companies could refuse claims from incidents within the disaster area and that the reputation could deter tourists from visiting Thailand. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin stated that the government must protect the tourism industry and that the decision not to declare these provinces disaster areas was taken after extensive discussion with relevant agencies. Air pollution Punlop Saejew, president of the Chiang Mai Tourism Council, echoed these concerns, stating that a disaster declaration would likely decrease tourism flow. He reported that between March 1 and March 16, Chiang Mai saw over 52,000 tourist arrivals via direct flights, generating at least 1 billion baht (US$ 28 million) for the province, particularly for the tourism sector supply chains. Punlop fears that without tourists, operators could accrue debts, leading to a surge in non-performing loans. Punlop has suggested alternative approaches, such as the introduction of a Clean Air Act to deal with the PM2.5 haze. He urged all stakeholders to cooperate in implementing appropriate regulations, including severe punishment for offenders and rewards for those adhering to the rules. For example, farmers who avoid slash-and-burn farming should be supported by the government, he suggested. Punlop also proposed a fundraising scheme to establish a fund to reduce air pollution, with investors being incentivised through tax reductions. The pollution problem has also been flagged by Kamonsan Srivirach, chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce of Phayao, and Thomas Wilson, president and chief executive of Allianz Ayudhya Assurance. Kamonsan believes that declaring Chiang Mai a disaster zone requires careful thought due to the potential impact on tourism, but acknowledges the benefit of increased disaster mitigation and healthcare funding. Wilson stated that pollution is a significant issue for Thailand, caused mainly by forest fires and crop burning in the northern region and heavy traffic, factories, and construction in Bangkok. The implications for the private insurance industry have been less significant than the public health impacts due to the variance in insurance penetration rates in the north compared to Bangkok. Insurance penetration rates are higher in Bangkok due to greater income levels and industry education, meaning the impact on respiratory disease claims is likely to be higher in Bangkok than in the north, reported Bangkok Post. However, Wilson suggests that both public and private measures should be explored to address the issue, including stricter enforcement of forest burning bans, encouraging remote work, and reducing electricity use. by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-21 - 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

Meta's "Take It Down" Debuts in Thailand for Teen Safety by Krajangwit Johjit BANGKOK (NNT) - Meta has launched the “Take It Down” program in Thailand, expanding its effort to help teenagers control their intimate images online. Developed with the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC), the program now supports the Thai language, among others, broadening its global accessibility. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322878-metas-take-it-down-debuts-in-thailand-for-teen-safety/

BANGKOK (NNT) - Meta has launched the “Take It Down” program in Thailand, expanding its effort to help teenagers control their intimate images online. Developed with the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC), the program now supports the Thai language, among others, broadening its global accessibility. This Meta-initiated program allows those under 18 to prevent the spread of their intimate photos through a secure process that respects their privacy. At a press briefing in Thailand, Meta's APAC Safety Policy Manager, Malina Enlund, highlighted the company's fight against sextortion, stressing the importance of protecting teenagers' online well-being and enhancing youth safety worldwide. Addressing sextortion and child sexual exploitation is of great importance, as evidenced by Meta's removal of millions of such exploitative content pieces. The Take It Down platform's unique hashing technique allows for the discreet blocking of image distribution. Meta's comprehensive strategy also includes resources and tools for teens, parents, and teachers to fight sextortion, alongside measures such as “Safety Notices” on Instagram to safeguard against unwanted contact. by Krajangwit Johjit Source: NNT 2024-03-21 - 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 Intensifies Crackdown on Foreign Criminals to Protect Tourism by Naark Rojanasuvan BANGKOK (NNT) - The Thai government has made it a priority to tackle the notable rise in criminal activities by foreigners, which has negatively impacted the nation's tourism reputation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322877-thai-government-intensifies-crackdown-on-foreign-criminals-to-protect-tourism/

BANGKOK (NNT) - The Thai government has made it a priority to tackle the notable rise in criminal activities by foreigners, which has negatively impacted the nation's tourism reputation. In response, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has instructed the Royal Thai Police (RTP) to devise strategies and enforce measures to surveil and apprehend foreign lawbreakers. The RTP recently convened meetings to strategize and execute initiatives against foreign offenders, with a focus on the Phuket Provincial Police Region. Since October 1st, 2023, police efforts have led to 614 arrests for a variety of crimes, including illegal employment and offenses related to sex. Addressing crimes committed by foreigners is of paramount importance to the Royal Thai Police, with significant cases being referred to the Immigration Bureau for potential visa cancellation. Furthermore, comprehensive operations have been launched to eradicate such criminal activities, aiming to refurbish the tourism sector's image and bolster the security perception among visitors. by Naark Rojanasuvan Source: NNT 2024-03-21 - 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 celebrates UN’s International Day of Happiness by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Thailand is basking in the glow of happiness as it marks the International Day of Happiness, a celebration initiated by the United Nations on March 20 (today). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322867-thailand-celebrates-un’s-international-day-of-happiness/

Thailand is basking in the glow of happiness as it marks the International Day of Happiness, a celebration initiated by the United Nations on March 20 (today). This year, the nation has every reason to rejoice as it ascends two places in the global happiness index, landing at an impressive 58th spot, though trailing behind regional counterparts like Singapore, the Philippines, and Vietnam within ASEAN. The genesis of the International Day of Happiness stems from a United Nations assembly on July 12, 2012, drawing inspiration from Bhutan’s unique concept of Gross National Happiness (GNH). Bhutan, renowned as the world’s happiest nation, evaluates national prosperity and social success through a holistic lens, prioritising overall well-being over material wealth. At the core of this observance lies the UN’s dual mission: to foster widespread celebration of happiness and to underscore its significance as a fundamental human pursuit. Central to this ethos is the advocacy for policies that nurture happiness on a societal scale, aligning seamlessly with the UN’s broader agenda of global welfare and sustainable development. In its pursuit of happiness, the UN advocates for a multifaceted approach that encompasses economic progress, social cohesion, and environmental stewardship. Surveys conducted by the organisation gauge happiness levels across nations, considering a myriad of factors including income, employment, social relationships, health, and political freedom. According to the latest World Happiness Report of 2024, Thailand has witnessed a surge in happiness over the past year, clinching the 58th position globally, up from 60th last year, and ranking fourth within ASEAN, trailing behind Singapore, the Philippines, and Vietnam. While established happiness leaders like Finland and Denmark maintain their stronghold in the top rankings, emerging trends suggest a shifting landscape, with Eastern European nations like the Czech Republic, Lithuania, and Slovenia making notable strides towards greater well-being, reported The Nation. Experts contend that cultivating strong social bonds and nurturing positive emotions are pivotal for individual and collective happiness. A sunny disposition not only enriches daily life but also correlates with improved health outcomes, reinforcing the importance of spreading joy and kindness, particularly in times of adversity. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-21 - 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

Illegal Hong Kong Tour Guide Arrested in Karon By Goongnang Suksawat Karon – An illegal Hong Kong tour guide was arrested on Tuesday (March 19th) at the Phuket Big Buddha in Karon. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322866-illegal-hong-kong-tour-guide-arrested-in-karon/

Karon – An illegal Hong Kong tour guide was arrested on Tuesday (March 19th) at the Phuket Big Buddha in Karon. The Phuket Tourist Police told the Phuket Express that at 10:00 A.M. they arrested a suspect identified only as Mr. WONG, 31, a Hong Kong national. He was caught while he was informing Hong Kong tourists about the Big Buddha. Officers found that Mr. WONG was also allegedly selling tour packages to Chinese tourists via online platforms. He picked up his customers at appointment areas and took them to tourism destinations. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-03-21 - 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

Ukrainian and Russian Gamblers Arrested in Rassada By Goongnang Suksawat Rassada – Ukrainian and Russian gamblers were arrested at a house in Rassada, Phuket City early in the morning on Wednesday (March 20th). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322865-ukrainian-and-russian-gamblers-arrested-in-rassada/

Rassada – Ukrainian and Russian gamblers were arrested at a house in Rassada, Phuket City early in the morning on Wednesday (March 20th). The Phuket Provincial Police told the Phuket Express that at 1:45 A.M. this morning they raided a house on the Thep Krasattri Road. The raid came after police received a tip-off from a concerned citizen that there were many foreigners who came to the house for gambling but they did not allow entry to Thais. The house door was opened and the officers entered the house to find many foreigners who were playing poker. Police arrested Mr. OLEKSANDR, a Ukrainian national, the leader of the gambling den. Other gamblers arrested were Mr. EVGENI, Mr. RODION, Mr. RUSLAN, all Russian nationals. Ms. EKATERINA, a Russian national, was allegedly doing a job exchanging cash for gambling chips. Their last names were withheld by police. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-03-21 - 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

Gun Dealing Duo Arrested in Na Jomtien By Aim Tanakorn Sattahip, Chonburi — Pattaya police apprehended two individuals allegedly involved in illegal firearm dealings in the Na Jomtien area on Tuesday, March 19th, 2024. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322864-gun-dealing-duo-arrested-in-na-jomtien/

Sattahip, Chonburi — Pattaya police apprehended two individuals allegedly involved in illegal firearm dealings in the Na Jomtien area on Tuesday, March 19th, 2024. The operation, involving a team of Pattaya law enforcement officers, resulted in the arrest of Mr. Narong, 41, and Mr. Pongsakorn, 26, (family names withheld). The suspects were found in possession of a modified .22 caliber long rifle and five rounds of ammunition during the arrest at Soi Na Jomtien 2, Na Jomtien, Sattahip, Chonburi. Acting on intelligence reports, undercover agents contacted the suspects and agreed to purchase the homemade firearm at 7,000 baht. The officers lured the suspects to meet at a restaurant’s parking lot in Na Jomtien. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-03-21 - 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

Young Female Golf Caddie Dies in Motorcycle Accident in Chonburi By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: Siamrath Na Jomtien, Chonburi — A young female golf caddie tragically lost her life in a motorcycle accident on Wednesday morning, March 20th, in Chonburi province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322863-young-female-golf-caddie-dies-in-motorcycle-accident-in-chonburi/

Na Jomtien, Chonburi — A young female golf caddie tragically lost her life in a motorcycle accident on Wednesday morning, March 20th, in Chonburi province. The incident occurred on the Nong Jap Tao – Khao Chi Chan Road in the Na Jomtien sub-district, Sattahip district. At around 8:30 AM, Na Jomtien police received a report of the accident and immediately responded to the scene alongside rescue units. Upon arrival, authorities discovered that four individuals, three women and one man, had already been transported to Wat Yannasangwararam Hospital with minor injuries. However, at the scene, the body of Ms. Jutarat, 23, last name withheld, was found with severe head trauma and skull fractures. Despite CPR attempts, she later succumbed to her injuries. By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: Siamrath Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-03-21 - 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

Illegal Immigrant Workers are Taking Over Thai Jobs in Tourist Areas By Kittisak Phalaharn On March 19th, 2024, Mr. Somchai Morakotsriwan, the Director-General of the Department of Employment, publicly revealed a case of immigrant workers allegedly illegally taking over Thai people’s jobs in tourist attractions and commercial areas in Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and other locations. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322862-illegal-immigrant-workers-are-taking-over-thai-jobs-in-tourist-areas/

On March 19th, 2024, Mr. Somchai Morakotsriwan, the Director-General of the Department of Employment, publicly revealed a case of immigrant workers allegedly illegally taking over Thai people’s jobs in tourist attractions and commercial areas in Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and other locations. Somchai stated immigrant workers included various nationalities such as Burmese, Vietnamese, Cambodian, Chinese, Russian, and Indian nationals. The foreign workers allegedly illegally competed with locals in commercial areas in Chinatown, Huai Khwang, Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket, Koh Samui, and other popular tourist destinations. According to statistics from October 1st, 2023 to March 18th, 2024, the Thai Department of Employment inspected 25,628 companies nationwide and 306,577 individuals from the aforementioned nationals. As a result, more than 1,689 individuals were facing legal action with 721 individuals allegedly directly competing with Thai locals for jobs. By Kittisak Phalaharn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-03-21 - 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

Numerous Chinese Tourists Injured in Bus Crash in Chonburi By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: Topnews Chonburi — A collision on the Chonburi Motorway left 26 Chinese tourists injured Tuesday afternoon, March 19th, 2024. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322860-numerous-chinese-tourists-injured-in-bus-crash-in-chonburi/

Chonburi — A collision on the Chonburi Motorway left 26 Chinese tourists injured Tuesday afternoon, March 19th, 2024. The accident occurred at around 4:30 PM near kilometer marker 65 + 900, on a lane inbound to Bangkok, in the Mueang district, Chonburi province. The local rescue team responded to the scene alongside highway police. They found a white bus with significant front-end damage. The bus had collided with the rear of a white Hino 18-wheeler. All 26 passengers on the bus, a group of Chinese tourists, sustained various injuries. The extent of the injuries was not revealed to the press, but the victims (9 men and 17 women) were quickly transported to local hospitals. By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: Topnews Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-03-21 - 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

Russian woman blames period for assault on pregnant Thai shopkeeper by Bob Scott Picture of the Russian woman, identified Alena, courtesy of Bangkok Post A Russian woman accused of assaulting a pregnant Thai shopkeeper on the island of Koh Pha Ngan, located in the province of Surat Thani, claimed that she did it because she was on her period. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322859-russian-woman-blames-period-for-assault-on-pregnant-thai-shopkeeper/

A Russian woman accused of assaulting a pregnant Thai shopkeeper on the island of Koh Pha Ngan, located in the province of Surat Thani, claimed that she did it because she was on her period. The woman, identified as Alena, was escorted to court today, March 20, by local Thai police. The authorities are considering requesting the immigration bureau to revoke her visa. The alleged assault took place in a nearby coffee shop, situated next to an organic vegetable store owned by the complainant, 34 year old Ploy. The expectant mother, now in her eighth month of pregnancy, accused Alena of kicking her in the right groin, prompting her to report the incident to the police. Subsequently, Alena was charged under Section 295 of the Criminal Code for assault leading to physical and mental harm. The repercussions of this offence could include a prison sentence of up to two years and/or a fine of up to 40,000 baht. While being escorted to Koh Samui Provincial Court, Alena was accompanied by a male compatriot. She disregarded any questions from the press and seemed disturbed when pictures were taken of her before she entered a police vehicle. According to Ploy, the incident occurred around 1pm on March 18 when Alena entered the store, disregarding the no shoes policy indicated on the door sign. Ploy alleges that despite being asked in English to remove her shoes, Alena disregarded the request and subsequently kicked her twice in the right leg before exiting the store. The police were promptly notified and were able to locate Alena and bring her to Koh Pha Ngan Police Station to face charges. During questioning, Alena allegedly admitted to the assault and offered an apology to Satika. She claimed her aggressive behaviour was due to her being on her period. Surat Thani Police Chief, Police Major General Sermphan Sirikhong, has ordered his team to pursue the case and press charges. The victim will be provided with assistance as per the law, and the immigration office in Surat Thani will be petitioned to consider revoking Alena’s visa. Ploy recollected that there were two other foreign customers present in the store when the incident occurred. She reiterated that she had asked Alena to remove her shoes as she sells organic herbal products and wanted to maintain cleanliness. She was taken aback by Alena’s violent response and instinctively shielded her stomach, given her advanced pregnancy. She accepted Alena’s apology but insisted on letting the police handle the case to avoid a recurrence of such incidents. ORIGINAL STORY: Pregnant Thai woman seeks justice after Russian assault in Koh Pha Ngan A pregnant Thai woman turned to social media for justice after a Russian woman kicked her yesterday at a coffee shop in Koh Pha Ngan, an island in the southern province of Surat Thani. The Thai victim, known only as Ploy, shared pictures of the Russian woman with blonde hair on a Facebook group called Facebook Koh Pha Ngan, yesterday, March 18. In her post, she stated… “This Russian woman physically assaulted me, an eight-month-pregnant woman, by kicking me. Does anyone know her or where she stays? Please inform me if you meet this woman. I will never give up on taking legal action against her.” Later, Ploy discovered the Russian woman’s Instagram account and shared it in the group. According to her bio, the foreigner claimed to be an actress, model, and designer based in Koh Pha Ngan. However, her Instagram account was later set to private, and all bio information was deleted. Ploy later revealed to Channel 3 that she owns an organic vegetable shop on the island, located next to the coffee shop where the incident took place. On the day of the incident, the Russian woman entered the coffee shop wearing her shoes, despite warnings from other local customers and a sign outside that she had to take them off before entering the establishment. Vulgar language Ploy noticed that the Russian woman seemed to have difficulty understanding the Thai language spoken by the locals. Deciding to help, Ploy approached and explained about the shoes in English. However, the Russian woman responded with vulgar language, prompting Ploy to ask her to leave. Following the request to leave, the Russian woman became enraged and kicked Ploy in the groin. Ploy, who was eight months pregnant, feared for her unborn child as the kick narrowly missed her abdomen. Subsequently, the Russian woman left the shop without offering any apologies. Ploy then complained to Koh Pha Ngan Police Station, providing CCTV footage of the incident as evidence. Ploy told Channel 3 that the Russian woman’s boyfriend tried to seek help from a local politician in the province to evade charges. However, Ploy insisted that she would not drop the charges, saying the incident insulted her dignity as a Thai resident. Authorities from Koh Pha Ngan and the Immigration Office reportedly identified the woman and planned to summon her for questioning. They also intended to review her visa status, as some netizens suggested she might be working in Thailand without permission. by Bob Scott Picture of the Russian woman, identified Alena, courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-21 - 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 health ministry assures data security amid breach rumours by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The Public Health Ministry of Thailand, under the leadership of Cholnan Srikaew, assured the public of the safety and security of patient data in their system. This response was prompted by a rumour suggesting a breach that exposed the personal information of more than 2.2 million Thai citizens. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322858-thai-health-ministry-assures-data-security-amid-breach-rumours/

The Public Health Ministry of Thailand, under the leadership of Cholnan Srikaew, assured the public of the safety and security of patient data in their system. This response was prompted by a rumour suggesting a breach that exposed the personal information of more than 2.2 million Thai citizens. The rumour originated from the Rural Doctors Society (RDS), which alleged that the compromised data had been sold on a dark website for a sum of US$10,000 (approximately 360,000 baht). This alleged breach was reported to have occurred this month and comes a year after a similar incident where a hacker threatened to release the personal data of 55 million Thai citizens. The RDS traced the source of the leak back to the Public Health Ministry’s Mor Prom app, according to a post on their Facebook page. The RDS, having received several complaints from different hospitals concerning the online sharing of information, has demanded an explanation from the Ministry. “Most staff at state hospitals are not highly skilled in information technology, but they were assigned to work on online information sharing without an adequate budget or clearly structured instructions.” The recently leaked data is said to include the 13-digit Thai national ID numbers. However, Cholnan denied any connection between this breach and the Public Health Ministry, announcing plans for a joint press conference with the National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA) today. The health minister stated that four provinces, Phrae, Phetchaburi, Narathiwat, and Roi Et, the test regions for the 30-baht healthcare scheme that shares patients’ information online, are now under strict supervision. Furthermore, hospitals not yet connected to the system will receive personnel training. “Our system prioritises the personal data security of patients.” The ministry’s spokesman and head of its Information and Communication Technology Centre, Surakameth Mahasirimongkol, added that the centre is collaborating with the NCSA and other agencies to investigate the leaked data. Preliminary inspection suggests the data is more related to financial transactions than health, reported Bangkok Post. The ministry issued directives to its agencies to ensure continued compliance with cyber and personal data security measures in line with ISO 27001 or HAIT Plus standards. Additionally, it aims to enhance awareness of cyber threats among health personnel. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-21 - 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 govt’s cash splash: 500 billion baht digital wallet green light by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post With a budget proposal of 3.48 trillion baht (US$96.5 billion) for the fiscal year under discussion, the Government of Thailand is determined to proceed with a significant 500-billion-baht (US$13.8 billion) digital wallet handout scheme, according to Deputy Finance Minister, Julapun Amornvivat. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322857-thai-govt’s-cash-splash-500-billion-baht-digital-wallet-green-light/

With a budget proposal of 3.48 trillion baht (US$96.5 billion) for the fiscal year under discussion, the Government of Thailand is determined to proceed with a significant 500-billion-baht (US$13.8 billion) digital wallet handout scheme, according to Deputy Finance Minister, Julapun Amornvivat. During the parliamentary debate, Julapun stated the possible necessity of securing a loan via a bill to finance the scheme. The initiative, designed to provide 10,000 baht to each of the 50 million Thai citizens over six months, has raised concerns regarding its funding method, with critics branding it as fiscally reckless. Despite the criticism, the government is adamant about the scheme’s implementation, Julapun confirmed. “Should there be adjustments, we’ll likely seek consent from the Parliament members once again. But the project will assuredly proceed.” Furthermore, the government is optimistic about attaining a balanced budget in due time. The 2024 fiscal year’s budget, ending in September, aspires to increase spending by 9.3% and reduce the budget deficit by 0.3% to 693 billion baht from the preceding year. Upon the budget’s second and third readings in the debate, the Senate will need to approve it, followed by a royal endorsement, reported Bangkok Post. The government anticipates the budget to be ready for deployment by the start of next month, a delay from the initial commencement date of October 1, 2023. The postponement stems from a prolonged political stalemate after last year’s General Election on May 14. The new government was established in August. Meanwhile, in related government news, a significant financial boost of 300 million baht (US$8.3 million) has been granted by the Thai Cabinet for the development of 13 projects aimed at tourism growth across four northern provinces: Phayao, Chiang Rai, Phrae, and Nan. The decision was made during a mobile meeting in Phayao, overseen by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin during his two-day visit to the region. On his tour, he also took time to survey the prospective location for a new airport in Phayao. During this visit, the Cabinet green-lit a proposal to establish a new Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) office in Phayao by the end of this year. This move falls in line with the broader plan to transform Phayao into the north’s primary tourism hotspot. by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-21 - 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