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New Zealanders in hot water after assaulting Thai police officer in Phuket by Petch Petpailin Photo via Phuket Hotnews Two New Zealanders, who physically assaulted a Thai police officer on Chao Fah East Road in Phuket on Saturday were charged with five offences and face a lifetime ban from entering Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322598-two-new-zealand-men-arrested-in-phuket-for-alleged-brutal-assault-on-traffic-cop/?do=findComment&comment=18774667

UPDATE: New Zealanders in hot water after assaulting Thai police officer in Phuket by Petch Petpailin Photo via Phuket Hotnews Two New Zealanders, who physically assaulted a Thai police officer on Chao Fah East Road in Phuket on Saturday were charged with five offences and face a lifetime ban from entering Thailand. The incident occurred when a traffic officer from the Chalong Police Station, Somsak Noo-iad, asked two foreign men, later identified as 36 year old Hamish Day and 38 year old Oscar Day, to stop at a checkpoint after the two Kiwis were riding motorcycles at high speed. The foreigners fled the checkpoint, prompting Somsak to chase after them. He managed to stop them outside a noodle shop on Chao Fah East Road. The foreign men attempted to bribe Somsak but the officer refused and recorded their actions with his mobile phone. Unexpectedly, Oscar grabbed Somsak’s phone and physically attacked the officer until he fell to the ground. A scuffle ensued between Oscar and Somsak over the officer’s gun, which resulted in a shot being fired. Fortunately, the gunshot did not hit anyone in the area. Oscar managed to get the gun and handed it to Harmish. A video recorded by a witness showed Oscar restraining Somsak while Hamish held the gun. The witness kept asking the two New Zealanders to stop their actions but to no avail. Bail denied, charges issued Other police officers later arrived at the scene and suppressed the situation. Somsak was rushed to the hospital with injuries to his finger and leg. He suffered only minor injuries and has recovered. A Facebook page reported that Somsak forgave the two New Zealanders after getting an apology and a gift basket from them. This sparked a controversy on Thai social media. Netizens demanded legal action against them and urged police to stop spoiling foreign tourists. The superintendent of the Chalong Police Station, Ekkarat Plaiduang, dismissed the information reported by the Facebook page. Ekkarat insisted that the two New Zealanders were in police custody and their bail requests were denied. Ekkarat insisted that Somsak did not accept any gift basket and police pressed five charges against them including: Section 138 of the Criminal Law: attacking or obstructing an officer who is on duty. The penalty is imprisonment of up to one year, a fine of up to 20,000 baht, or both. Section 167 of the Criminal Law: giving or promising to give any assets or benefits to government officials. The penalty is imprisonment of up to seven years and a fine of up to 140,000 baht. Section 295 of the Criminal Law: physically assaulting another person. The penalty is imprisonment of up to two years, a fine of up to 40,000 baht, or both. Section 335 of the Criminal Law: committing theft in a dwelling place. The penalty is imprisonment from one to five years and a fine from 20,000 to 100,000 baht. Section 64 of the Car Act: driving without a licence. The penalty is imprisonment of up to one month, a fine of up to 1,000 baht, or both. A Thai news agency reported that the Phuket Governor would summon Somsak to provide detailed information to the Office of Immigration for consideration of revoking the visas of the two New Zealanders. Additionally, the Deputy Commissioner of the Royal Thai Police, Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn, expressed his intention to include the foreigners on the entry blacklist. Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-18 - 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

Bangkok uses AI weather forecasts to accurately notify citizens 3 hours in advance by Thaiger Presentation demonstrating Weathernews AI Nowcast's performance | PHOTO: Bangkok Chadchart Sittipunt, Governor of Bangkok, discussed with Chihito Kusabiraki, CEO of Weathernews Inc., Japan, on activating the AI Nowcast system for forecasting rain in advance in the Bangkok area. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322635-bangkok-uses-ai-weather-forecasts-to-accurately-notify-citizens-3-hours-in-advance/

Chadchart Sittipunt, Governor of Bangkok, discussed with Chihito Kusabiraki, CEO of Weathernews Inc., Japan, on activating the AI Nowcast system for forecasting rain in advance in the Bangkok area. The Governor of Bangkok said that flooding is a major problem in Bangkok. If the area that will experience heavy rain can be predicted in advance, we will be able to prepare for it better. Currently, we have AI and supercomputer technology and cooperation with Weathernews Inc. of Japan from 2023, an organization that uses technology to track and forecast weather conditions. Currently, it is possible to forecast and analyze the situation through AI to enhance the performance of the existing Bangkok radar at 2 points, Nong Khaem Radar Station and Nong Chok Radar Station, to be able to accurately predict rain 3 hours in advance. Bangkok can provide warnings and prepare tools and equipment to better cope with heavy rain and flooding, which is good progress for Bangkok. Using AI to predict the weather in advance, a project by Weathernews Inc. will be published through the Facebook platform. DDS will use content provided by Weathernews Inc. posted to Facebook and websites operated through Weathernews Inc.’s DDS. It provides early warning to cope with heavy rain situations and improve operational efficiency through cooperation with the BMA Drainage Bureau as much as possible to achieve common goals. As part of web publishing, Weathernews Inc. will create and operate a 24/7 real-time weather website for DDS where the public can directly access and view content. Systems need to be built to handle user volume and access during inclement weather. At this time, the budget is still being processed. Press Release by Thaiger TOP: Presentation demonstrating Weathernews AI Nowcast's performance | PHOTO: Bangkok Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-18 - 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

Family calls for accountability after tragic crash takes mother’s life by Samantha Rose Picture courtesy of ภรัญวิทย์ อนันต์ดิลกฤทธิ์ Facebook A tragic road accident claimed the life of a beloved mother when a truck collided with her vehicle on March 11. The bereaved family, heartbroken and seeking solace, calls for the trucking company owner, who is also a secretary to a government minister, to demonstrate responsibility by paying respects to the deceased. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322634-family-calls-for-accountability-after-tragic-crash-takes-mother’s-life/

A tragic road accident claimed the life of a beloved mother when a truck collided with her vehicle on March 11. The bereaved family, heartbroken and seeking solace, calls for the trucking company owner, who is also a secretary to a government minister, to demonstrate responsibility by paying respects to the deceased. On the day following the accident, March 12, a physician, Pharanwit Anantadilokrit, took to Facebook to express his anguish over the loss of his mother in the incident. He recounted the harrowing moments of the previous day, when his mother’s journey to their coconut farm in Nakhon Ratchasima province was abruptly ended by the fatal crash. The grief-stricken family conducted a ceremony to invite his mother’s spirit home, where he could only touch the bloodstains left behind, imploring her to return home. Since the incident, the family has not received any form of compensation or settlement from the trucking company involved. The company, owned by a secretary to a minister, has yet to reach out personally, only sending a wreath and having representatives attend the funeral. The family was left to manage the funeral arrangements themselves. Pharanwit lamented that it seemed as though his mother’s life held no value. He understood that accidents happen, but he yearned for a gesture of responsibility from the culprit. A mere act of respect for the deceased would have meant the world to him. To add to the family’s disappointment, a minister’s advisor, claiming to be a friend, attended the ceremony but left before it was completed, reported Sanook. Yesterday, March 16, during the last rites for his mother, Pharanwit informed that the family has still not received any communication regarding compensation. They await the company owner’s response and a display of accountability for the events that unfolded. by Samantha Rose Picture courtesy of ภรัญวิทย์ อนันต์ดิลกฤทธิ์ Facebook Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-18 - 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 and Japan Collaborate to Address Visa Overstays by Krajangwit Johjit BANGKOK (NNT) - The Thai government is collaborating with the Japanese embassy to address issues arising from Thai nationals overstaying their visa-free period in Japan. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322632-thailand-and-japan-collaborate-to-address-visa-overstays/

BANGKOK (NNT) - The Thai government is collaborating with the Japanese embassy to address issues arising from Thai nationals overstaying their visa-free period in Japan. The initiative follows concerns from Japan over the potential misuse of its visa-free policy, which currently allows Thai citizens a 15-day stay and is set to expire in early 2025. Last year, approximately 1 million Thai tourists visited Japan, with expectations for the number to rise to 1.5 million this year. Deputy Foreign Minister Jakkapong Sangmanee recently engaged in discussions with representatives from the Japanese embassy, affirming the Thai government's commitment to resolving the overstay issue. Measures are being developed in collaboration with various sectors, including the Department of Consular Affairs, to prevent future incidents and educate Thai citizens on the consequences of overstaying. Efforts are also being made to differentiate between genuine tourists and those seeking employment in Japan, with a focus on legal avenues for Thai workers. The Japanese government has since acknowledged Thailand's efforts and agreed to consider the proposal put forth by the Thai government to preserve the 15-day visa exemption policy while ensuring respect for each other's laws and regulations. by Krajangwit Johjit Source: NNT 2024-03-18 - 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

Violence erupts as group attacks volunteer at Bangkok gas station by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Violence erupted at a Sai Mai district gas station in Bangkok when a group of over 30 people assaulted a volunteer from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation. The incident, which occurred just past midnight today, March 18, left the victim with serious head injuries after being knocked to the ground and repeatedly kicked. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322631-violence-erupts-as-group-attacks-volunteer-at-bangkok-gas-station/

Violence erupted at a Sai Mai district gas station in Bangkok when a group of over 30 people assaulted a volunteer from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation. The incident, which occurred just past midnight today, March 18, left the victim with serious head injuries after being knocked to the ground and repeatedly kicked. In the dead of night, the Sai Mai neighbourhood was shaken by a brutal attack at a local petrol station on Thepharak-Sai Mai Road. A volunteer of the Ruamkatanyu Foundation was the target of a violent ambush by a group exceeding 30 people. The altercation escalated quickly, with the assailants slapping the volunteer’s face and then unleashing a barrage of kicks that sent the victim tumbling to the ground. The volunteer’s head struck a concrete wheel stop, causing severe injuries, before the attackers kicked the prone individual again. As chaos ensued, fellow volunteers from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation phoned the police to intervene. However, before authorities could arrive, the attackers fled the scene in a four-door pickup truck and on motorcycles, with a Sai Mai rescue ambulance in pursuit. The severely injured volunteer was initially taken to Phramongkutklao Hospital and later transferred to Rajavithi Hospital for comprehensive treatment. Aside from the critically injured volunteer, another member of the Ruamkatanyu Foundation suffered minor injuries. After the incident, the volunteers filed a report at the Bang Khen Police Station and sought medical attention. The conflict reportedly stemmed from a prior dispute between two volunteer groups: the Ruamkatanyu Foundation’s rescue volunteers and the Civilian Volunteer’s Sai Mai unit, also known as Or Bor Por. Both groups responded to an accident within Soi Phaholyothin 54/1, where heated arguments broke out. After the injured parties from the accident were transported to the hospital, a meeting was arranged to resolve the dispute, which ultimately led to the violent confrontation captured in a video clip. Pimchanok Palakawong na Ayudhya, a committee member of the Ruamkatanyu Foundation, disclosed that the foundation was informed of the contention between the two groups of volunteers, prompting intervention. However, when the opposing parties arrived at the gas station, the committee member was immediately attacked before any discussion could take place. The Ruamkatanyu Foundation volunteers later sought accountability for the assault from the Sai Mai Or Bor Por unit, but cooperation was not forthcoming. To make matters worse, as they left, assailants on motorcycles, brandishing unidentified firearms, attempted to shoot at the volunteers’ vehicle within the jurisdiction of the Sai Mai police, reported KhaoSod. While the exact motives behind the attack remain under investigation, the unprovoked aggression against the Ruamkatanyu Foundation volunteers has raised concerns about volunteer safety and the need for better conflict resolution mechanisms within these community service organizations. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-18 - 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

Severe summer storm to hit Thailand with hail and strong winds by Nattapong Westwood The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) issued a severe weather alert for the upcoming summer storm, set to impact various provinces with heavy rain, thunderstorms, strong winds, and potential hail on March 19-20, following a drop in temperature today, March 18. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322630-severe-summer-storm-to-hit-thailand-with-hail-and-strong-winds/

The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) issued a severe weather alert for the upcoming summer storm, set to impact various provinces with heavy rain, thunderstorms, strong winds, and potential hail on March 19-20, following a drop in temperature today, March 18. The summer storm, initially striking in the upper part of Thailand, is a result of a moderate high-pressure system from China extending over the region and the South China Sea. Concurrently, temperatures in the upper parts of the country are expected to rise significantly, creating conditions ripe for thunderstorms, strong gusty winds, and in some areas, hail. Lightning strikes are also a potential hazard in certain localities. Following the storm, a noticeable temperature decrease is forecasted. This weather pattern poses a variety of risks. The public in the affected areas is advised to be vigilant and take precautions such as avoiding open spaces, sheltering away from large trees, weak structures, and billboards, and maintaining good health due to the changing weather conditions. Farmers are particularly urged to prepare for the storm, which could damage crops and livestock. The provinces expected to be impacted on March 19 include: Chiang Rai, Lamphun, Lampang, Phayao, Nan, Phrae, Sukhothai, Uttaradit, Kamphaeng Phet, Phitsanulok, Phichit, and Phetchabun in the Northern region; Loei, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Nong Bua Lamphu, Udon Thani, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Chaiyaphum, Khon Kaen, Kalasin, Mukdahan, Maha Sarakham, Roi Et, Yasothon, Nakhon Ratchasima, Buriram, and Surin in the Northeastern region; Nakhon Sawan, Uthai Thani, Chai Nat, Lopburi, Saraburi, Sing Buri, Ang Thong, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Suphan Buri, Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Nakhon Pathom, Samut Sakhon, and Samut Songkhram in the Central region, including Bangkok and its vicinity; and Nakhon Nayok, Prachinburi, Sa Kaeo, Chachoengsao, Chonburi, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat in the Eastern region. On March 20, the Northern provinces of Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Sukhothai, Kamphaeng Phet, Phichit, Phitsanulok, and Tak will be affected. In the central region, the provinces include Nakhon Sawan, Uthai Thani, Chai Nat, Kanchanaburi, Suphan Buri, Ratchaburi, Nakhon Pathom, Samut Sakhon, and Samut Songkhram, while the Southern provinces of Phetchaburi and Prachuap Khiri Khan are also on the list. Residents are encouraged to stay informed by monitoring updates from the TMD and visiting their website at http://www.tmd.go.th or calling 0-2399-4012-13 and 1182 for around-the-clock information. The department, which issued the alert on March 18 at 5am, plans to release further announcements later in the day at 5 pm, reported KhoaSod. The alert comes as an important reminder for the population to prepare and stay safe during this turbulent weather period. by Nattapong Westwood Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-18 - 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

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UPDATE: Thai berry seekers left hanging: Labour Ministry plans visa harvest solution by Mitch Connor Picture of Thai workers pick wild berries in a forest courtesy of the Ministry of Labour The Labour Ministry of Thailand plans to solve the suspension of visa applications for Thais seeking wild-berry picking jobs in Finland by the 2025 harvest season, as disclosed by Somchai Morakotsriwan, the director-general of the Department of Employment. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322599-issuance-of-new-work-visas-for-thai-berry-pickers-in-finland-paused/?do=findComment&comment=18774391

Thai berry seekers left hanging: Labour Ministry plans visa harvest solution by Mitch Connor Picture of Thai workers pick wild berries in a forest courtesy of the Ministry of Labour The Labour Ministry of Thailand plans to solve the suspension of visa applications for Thais seeking wild-berry picking jobs in Finland by the 2025 harvest season, as disclosed by Somchai Morakotsriwan, the director-general of the Department of Employment. The ministry, in collaboration with other state agencies including those from the Foreign Affairs Ministry, is working towards a solution following Finland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ decision to suspend the acceptance of wild-berry pickers’ visa applications from Thais for the summer 2024 harvest season. This decision was due to concerns about exploitation and trafficking. “The move is temporary,” stated Somchai Morakotsriwan, adding that the Labour Ministry is in the process of devising solutions. A short-term measure is the halt of a recruitment programme for berry picking jobs in Finland and Sweden until regulations are improved for better protection of workers’ rights. As a long-term measure, the ministry plans to propose talks on labour imports and exports to the governments of both countries. Furthermore, to curb the trafficking and exploitation of workers, amendments will be made to laws and regulations to penalise employers and coordinators involved in these offences. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin announced the government is negotiating a mutual visa exemption programme with European countries. In light of tightened guidelines in February 2023, the ministry assessed Schengen visa conditions after the 2023 harvest season, following allegations of serious crimes during that period. Historically, visas for wild-berry picking were issued on the presumption that pickers enter Finland for purposes similar to tourism, collect wild berries under the right of public access (Everyman’s Right), and sell the natural products they have harvested to a party of their choice. However, the Foreign Ministry highlighted that most pickers had employment contracts. The ministry, therefore, stated that due to the risks of exploitation and trafficking, a long-term solution must be found by the 2025 season. The suspension of visa applications for berry pickers extends to the Embassy of Finland’s consular district in Bangkok, which covers Thailand, Cambodia, and Myanmar. As a result, Schengen visas will not be granted to wild-berry pickers from these countries for the summer 2024 harvest season, reported Bangkok Post. A working group will review regulatory options in spring 2024 and visa applications for purposes other than berry picking will be processed as usual. Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-18 - 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

Swiss technology revolutionises Thai railways with first arch culvert by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of SRT shows An arch culvert from Switzerland is built in tambon Pong Pa Wai in Den Chai district of Phrae province as part of the Den Chai-Ngao section of the 323.10-kilometre Den Chai- Chiang Rai-Chiang Khong double track railway project. Swiss technology finds its way into the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) as arch culvert technology is incorporated into the double-track railroad project between Den Chai district in Phrae and Chiang Khong district in Chiang Rai. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322626-swiss-technology-revolutionises-thai-railways-with-first-arch-culvert/

Picture courtesy of SRT shows An arch culvert from Switzerland is built in tambon Pong Pa Wai in Den Chai district of Phrae province as part of the Den Chai-Ngao section of the 323.10-kilometre Den Chai- Chiang Rai-Chiang Khong double track railway project. Swiss technology finds its way into the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) as arch culvert technology is incorporated into the double-track railroad project between Den Chai district in Phrae and Chiang Khong district in Chiang Rai. This marks the first time such technology is being used in Thailand, according to Ekkarat Sriarayanpong, the head of the SRT governor’s office. The first of its kind, the arch culvert is under construction in Tambon Pong Pa Wai in the Den Chai district, forming a part of the Den Chai-Ngao railway section. The culvert, which is 33.5 metres in length and 4.2m in height, is expected to be completed in two months. The Swiss technology not only promises to reduce the cost of arch culverts by 20-25% but also aims to reduce the carbon footprint of the site by cutting back on cement usage. Precast fortified concrete slabs, produced in a factory, replace the traditional cement and are assembled at the site. Furthermore, the arch design of the culvert provides ample space for vehicles to pass underneath the railway, boasting a total height from floor to ceiling of up to 4.2m. by Mitch Connor Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-18 - 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 This project plans to incorporate at least 37 such arch culverts: 21 in the first section of the railway, eight in the second, and at least eight in the final section. The first section of the railway, Den Chai-Ngao, spans 103.7 kilometres and has cost 26.6 billion baht to build. Progress on this section is at 6.49%, ahead of the initial schedule. The second section, Ngao-Chiang Rai, stands at 7.76% completion, running 132.3km long and costing 26.89 billion baht. The final section, Chiang Rai-Chiang Khong, is 5.54% complete, stretching 87.1km and has been allocated a budget of 19.38 billion baht. The double-track railway, slated for completion in 2028, promises faster transportation for passengers and goods. It will also provide a connection between Laos and China’s Kunming region. Notably, the railway will facilitate the transportation of goods from other landlocked countries in the Greater Mekong Sub-region through Thailand. These goods can then be shipped to a third destination country from the Laem Chabang seaport.

Government considers corn import ban to combat PM2.5 dust pollution by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Pattarapong Chapattarasill A potential ban on corn imports from neighbouring countries next year is being considered by the government to tackle the escalating issue of PM2.5 fine dust pollution in the northern regions. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin recently visited Chiang Mai to assess the preventive actions and updates provided by government agencies regarding wildfire and haze prevention measures. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322622-government-considers-corn-import-ban-to-combat-pm25-dust-pollution/

A potential ban on corn imports from neighbouring countries next year is being considered by the government to tackle the escalating issue of PM2.5 fine dust pollution in the northern regions. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin recently visited Chiang Mai to assess the preventive actions and updates provided by government agencies regarding wildfire and haze prevention measures. The prime minister has acknowledged discussions with the Cambodian and Laotian ministries, along with the commander-in-chief of the Myanmar army, regarding the issue. He expressed his concerns, questioning what measures could be implemented to prevent neighbouring countries from burning, without infringing on their sovereignty. The Thai prime minister highlighted that the solution lies in prohibiting corn imports from neighbouring nations during the peak season. He even suggested an increased taxation system but expressed concerns that this might be dismissed by involved state agencies as mere talk. However, he stressed the urgent need to take these measures seriously and announced that corn imports would be banned from January to April next year. The 62 year old PM acknowledged that the PM2.5 dust pollution issue stems from economic problems. Farmers resort to burning to dispose of agricultural waste and prepare land for new cultivation. Some rural villagers also burn forests in search of wild supplies. Thus, PM Srettha emphasised the necessity for innovative solutions and military cooperation in managing agricultural waste to prevent farmers from burning it. He also underscored the importance of educating farmers to equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge. The Bangkok-born premier revealed that additional funding for wildfire prevention and extinguishing has been approved by the government recently. He also discussed the issue of traffic congestion, another contributing factor to PM2.5, with the transport minister and other agencies. Even though the fine dust levels were reported to be lower at certain points this year compared to the previous year, PM Srettha admitted that some provinces, including Chiang Mai, have experienced a surge in fine dust levels, reaching global peaks. However, hotspots decreased to a third of the previous year’s numbers, reported Bangkok Post. As per IQAir, Chiang Mai topped the list of the world’s 10 cities with the highest levels of air pollution. The list also included Lahore in Pakistan, Beijing in China, Delhi in India, and Dhaka in Bangladesh. by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Pattarapong Chapattarasill Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-18 - 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

Srettha will not declare Chiang Mai a disaster zone to protect tourism Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said the government is refraining from declaring Chiang Mai a natural disaster zone due to the toxic dust crisis, as the negative consequences would outweigh the benefits, particularly impacting tourism. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322621-srettha-will-not-declare-chiang-mai-a-disaster-zone-to-protect-tourism/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said the government is refraining from declaring Chiang Mai a natural disaster zone due to the toxic dust crisis, as the negative consequences would outweigh the benefits, particularly impacting tourism. He explained that if the province were declared a natural disaster zone, foreign visitors' insurance would not cover them, potentially resulting in detrimental long-term effects on tourism. But what about the residents of Chiang Mai? Yesterday, Srettha gave them two million free masks to cope for now. Move Forward Party's chief adviser, Pita Limjaroenrat, said the government should ensure that people in the north can gain cheaper access to N95 masks and air purifiers for now and also consider local production of these products. He also urged the government to develop clear short-, mid-, and long-term strategies with measurable KPIs and a clear timeline, detailing what needs to be urgently done to mitigate the problem this week, this month, next month, and next year. He said if the government provided clear goals with a timeline, civil servants, the civic sector, and other sectors would be able to better collaborate with the government to solve the problem. He said the government should use data from the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency and the National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand to identify the most frequent hotspots over the past five years, monitor them, and ensure that water banks are nearby these areas so that they can be suppressed as soon as possible. Source: Facebook Thai Enquirer 2024-03-18 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Monday 18 March 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322616-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-monday-18-march-2024/

Prime minister Stretha says he will not declare smog-covered Chaing Mai a disaster zone in order to protect tourism in the area! Adding he was worried that tourists would stay away from "Chiang Mai and the north. Critics said the government should focus more on the health of people in Chiang Mai rather than concerns about tourism. Meanwhile, the PM was confident that the Electric car, Formula E race will be held in Chiang Mai before February next year, following a meeting with representatives of the Formula E World Championship in Chiang Mai over the weekend. 19 kilogrammes of crystal methamphetamine were found in 19 bags left floating in the sea off the coast of Rayong yesterday. The drugs were found by fishermen heading out to sea, the bags had a logo and chinese letters printed on the side and are believed to have been part of a larger consignment that had washed ashore earlier. A 60 year old Air Force officer in Samut Prakan allegedly shot a young cadet with a pistol at a party during a quarrel with several others on Saturday evening. 30 police officers arrived, surrounded the house where the 26-year-old was injured and taken to hospital. The senior officer surrendered to police after two hours of negotiations. Around the region WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: sunny, 38C Bangkok: Sunny 35C Pattaya: sunny, partly cloudy 33C Phuket and the south: Sunny, partly cloudy 33C Hua Hin: Sunny, winds light from the South East 34C AQI Yellow moderate, Green clear, yellow moderate, Orange High, Red unhealthy. Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, Royal Coast Review, Kulsawek Sawekwannakorn, Thainewsroom.com, The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Windy.com. Wunderground.com -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-03-18 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Violent Bar Brawl Leaves Bartender Injured (Video) CHONBURI - On March 16, 2567, at approximately 4:30 AM, a violent altercation unfolded outside a liquor store in Area 39, Nong Pru Sub-district, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi Province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322614-violent-bar-brawl-leaves-bartender-injured-video/

CHONBURI - On March 16, 2567, at approximately 4:30 AM, a violent altercation unfolded outside a liquor store in Area 39, Nong Pru Sub-district, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi Province. Ms. Aphasra Siratampawaa, 34, endured an assault perpetrated by a group of youths, consisting of both tomboys and boys, reported 77kaoded. The incident left her with significant injuries. Following the distressing encounter, Ms. Siratampawaa promptly sought assistance from law enforcement. On the same day she spoke to reporters, recounting the harrowing ordeal she had endured. vllo-1.mp4 Determined to seek justice, she personally visited Pol. Lt. Rakpong Saenintra, the investigator at Pattaya City Police Station, to file a formal complaint. Ms. Siratampawaa provided crucial CCTV footage to aid in the investigation and ensure that the perpetrators face appropriate legal consequences. The incident underscores the importance of addressing violence and promoting safety within communities. -- ASEAN NOW 2024-03-18 - 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