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Concerns over readiness of Thailand’s secondary cities for tourism by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The private sector has expressed concerns over the readiness of Thailand’s secondary cities for a major tourism boost, despite Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s declaration that 2023 will be “the greatest year for Thai tourism in history”. These concerns were voiced during a recent tourism workshop at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre, where the 62 year old Thai PM outlined plans to transform tourism into one of the country’s three key economic drivers. One significant concern came from Marisa Sukosol Nunbhakdi, President of the Thai Hotels Association. She questioned the readiness of secondary cities to cater to an influx of tourists, citing a lack of essential facilities, services, and attractions. Connectivity between major cities and second-tier provinces was also highlighted as a critical issue that could hinder the flow of tourists to new destinations and exacerbate congestion in major cities. “Before hotels can promote their accommodation to guests, other tourism supply should be strong enough to facilitate tourists.” Marisa emphasised the need for sustainable tourism education in local communities, a move that could attract younger, sustainability-conscious travellers and help manage the tourist influx efficiently. Another industry figure, Chatri Sityodtong, the Founder and CEO of One Championship, a major martial arts and combat sports promoter, highlighted the untapped potential of sports tourism in Thailand. Despite a global sports industry valued at over US$35 billion (approximately 1 trillion baht), dwarfing Hollywood’s US$5 billion, Chatri noted that sports promotion in Thailand is underfunded and lacks adequate venues for large-scale events. The government’s ambitious tourism revenue target for the year stands at 3.5 trillion baht, a significant increase from the 2.13 trillion baht secured last year, which contributed 12.8% to the GDP. Tourism and Sports Minister Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol pointed out that the tourism industry contributed a record 18.6% to the GDP in 2017. She outlined five key strategies to elevate the industry to a regional hub: elevating soft power; promoting tourism in major and secondary cities; attracting world-class events and upgrading local festivals to global festivals; enhancing connectivity within Southeast Asia; and ensuring tourism confidence, reported Bangkok Post. The Tourism and Sports Ministry confirmed that it would evaluate the outcomes of the workshop and integrate them into its policies. However, it remains to be seen how the concerns raised by the private sector will be addressed in these plans. Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-16 - 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 man accuses lover swindling 38 million baht, stealing data by Petch Petpailin Photo via Matichon and Channel 3 A Thai businessman filed a complaint against his lover, accusing her of stealing confidential data from a hospital and swindling him out of 38 million baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322505-thai-man-accuses-lover-swindling-38-million-baht-stealing-data/

A Thai businessman filed a complaint against his lover, accusing her of stealing confidential data from a hospital and swindling him out of 38 million baht. The 63 year old Wasit visited Pak Kret Police Station in Nonthaburi province near Bangkok yesterday, March 14, to file a complaint against his lover, Teeranan, who used to work as a nurse at a hospital on Phattanakarn Road in Bangkok. Wasit told police that they began a secret relationship in 2020. Teeranan then borrowed 500,000 baht from him, promising to repay the debt at a high interest rate. She told Wasit that she could make a profit from the amount by offering a loan to her colleague and charging interest. Over time, Teeranan continued to borrow money from Wasit, ranging from 30,000 to 60,000 baht each time, claiming she had more people interested in loans. Wasit revealed that nearly 700 people borrowed money from Teeranan, and he gave her over 10 million baht. Teeranan also gave him copies of the debtors’ ID cards, leading him to believe that Teeranan would be able to make a profit from the amount and repay the debt. According to Wasit, the principal amount of the loan, plus the promised interest, totalling about 38 million baht. Teeranan made a few small repayments to Wasit over time, but they were insufficient. Data theft Last year, Teeranan’s credibility waned in Wasit’s eyes, prompting him to demand the full repayment of his money and an end to further lending. Wasit began contacting some of Teeranan’s debtors to reclaim the owed sums, only to discover that many were unaware of their debts. Some debtors informed Wasit that they had received medical treatment at a hospital where Teeranan was employed but were unfamiliar with her. This led Warit to suspect Treeanan of stealing confidential documents from the hospital. He talked to Teeranan directly and she eventually confessed that she did not offer loans to anyone and spent all of the money herself. Teeranan then resigned from the hospital and cut off contact with Wasit, prompting him to seek help from the police. Warit stated that he had diligently saved throughout his life to use the money for his retirement. He insisted that Teeranan reach out to him to resolve the issue promptly. Failing that, he warned of his intention to pursue legal action. Additionally, Warit disclosed that his wife had become aware of the affair and the financial loss through media reports. He urged both the media and online users to exercise caution with their remarks, highlighting the potential legal ramifications for defamation. “My wife knew about it from the news. We always share both happiness and sorrow. I confessed to her what I had done and the problem was solved. I would like to ask all the media and netizens to be careful when talking about me. My lawyer is always ready to welcome you.” Police are now searching for Teeranan to question her regarding the debt and how she obtained confidential patient documents from the hospital. The hospital is also investigating its security measures as Teeranan managed to obtain the document even if she did not work in a medical record department. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Matichon and Channel 3 Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-16 - 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 PM Spearheads ‘IGNITE THAILAND’S TOURISM’ Meeting, Aims for Global Tourism Boost By Kittisak Phalaharn National—At 9:00 AM, on March 15th, 2024, Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin presided over a meeting called “IGNITE THAILAND’S TOURISM” at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center joining forces with public and private sectors. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322504-thai-pm-spearheads-‘ignite-thailand’s-tourism’-meeting-aims-for-global-tourism-boost/

National—At 9:00 AM, on March 15th, 2024, Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin presided over a meeting called “IGNITE THAILAND’S TOURISM” at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center joining forces with public and private sectors. The “IGNITE THAILAND’S TOURISM” brainstorm meeting had all sectors joining forces to boost Thailand tourism as a tourist destination in ASEAN and worldwide. Srettha publicly revealed that after his official visits to Europe, he participated in the International Tourismus Borse 2024 (ITB), Berlin, Germany, the biggest event promoting the tourism industry on the world stage. Srettha showed his vision at ITB that in 2025, Thailand tourism would be at a historical moment as the Thai government had support policies such as free visa measures such as Schengen visa proposals, which was going in a positive direction. By Kittisak Phalaharn Full story: THE PATTAYA EXPRESS 2024-03-16 - 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

Immigration Collaborates with Airlines to Enhance Passenger Experience Picture: Siam Rath Following Prime Minister Serat Thaweesin's announcement on March 1, 2025, at Government House, aiming to elevate Suvarnabhumi Airport to an Aviation Hub of the region, targeting to rank among the top 50 airports globally within a year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322499-immigration-collaborates-with-airlines-to-enhance-passenger-experience/

British and American men arrested for real estate violations Picture: Siam Rath On March 15, 2567, the Special Investigation Department, operating under the guidance of Mr. Witawat Sukhantaros, Director of the Tracing and News Investigation Center, apprehended Mr. David (surname withheld), a 58-year-old US citizen. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322498-british-and-american-men-arrested-for-real-estate-violations/

Following Prime Minister Serat Thaweesin's announcement on March 1, 2025, at Government House, aiming to elevate Suvarnabhumi Airport to an Aviation Hub of the region, targeting to rank among the top 50 airports globally within a year. Previously ranked 68th globally, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of providing convenience to travelers, particularly at Suvarnabhumi Airport, to leave a lasting impression, reported Siam Rath. Most recently, on March 15, the Prime Minister convened the Ignite Thailand Tourism summit to gather insights from stakeholders in the tourism industry. During the session at the Sirikit Convention Hall, it was revealed that several airlines faced disruptions, leading to flight cancellations and rescheduling, impacting passengers who had already cleared immigration but had to either return to domestic accommodations or forego refunds. Colonel Cheeongrern Rimpadee disclosed measures to address such incidents, mentioning the cumbersome process of removing stamps from passengers' passports individually, taking over 3-4 hours for some flights with over 300 passengers. This situation not only inconvenienced travelers but also compounded congestion issues at immigration checkpoints. Colonel Cheeongrern further explained that despite these challenges not being the fault of AOT, efforts were underway to mitigate passenger inconvenience. To address this, representatives from various airlines, including BKK AOC's Chairman, Mr. Theerar Bua Sri, were invited to Suvarnabhumi Airport for discussions on improving procedures. Picture: Siam Rath Three categories of passengers were identified for better management: 1. Passengers transiting or transferring through Thailand. 2. Passengers departing Thailand, either nearing visa expiration or facing overstay risks. 3. Passengers departing Thailand but intending to continue their journey with the affected airline. This categorization aims to streamline procedures, ensuring efficient handling of passengers during flight disruptions, thereby enhancing overall passenger experience and alleviating congestion at immigration checkpoints. Colonel Cheeongrern acknowledged potential burdens on smaller airlines with limited staff but emphasized the primary goal of ensuring passenger comfort and adhering to the Prime Minister's aviation policy. TOP Picture: Siam Rath -- ASEAN NOW 2024-03-16 - 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

On March 15, 2567, the Special Investigation Department, operating under the guidance of Mr. Witawat Sukhantaros, Director of the Tracing and News Investigation Center, apprehended Mr. David (surname withheld), a 58-year-old US citizen. He was wanted under warrant number 4723/2566 issued on December 19, 2566, in Case No. 38/2564. He stands accused of acting as a shareholder or a person empowered to act on behalf of a legal entity, being complicit in the illegal activities of a corporation according to Sections 36 or 37 or failing to manage affairs properly to prevent such offenses under Section 41 of the Foreign Business Act BE 2542, reported Siam Rath. The investigation stemmed from Case No. 7/2561, where companies providing legal consultancy services were found to be facilitating foreigners in acquiring real estate in Surat Thani and Phuket provinces. The managers, British national Marcus (surname withheld) and American national Paul (surname withheld), orchestrated the establishment of companies and subsequently transferred shares to Thai nationals to conduct real estate transactions with foreigners, a practice restricted by law. Following a thorough investigation, legal proceedings have been initiated against the implicated parties. Mr. David, notably, was involved in transactions where properties were sold to foreign individuals, a violation of laws governing foreign business operations. He attempted to evade arrest but was apprehended near the entrance of Chonburi Hospital. The apprehending officers have informed him of the charges, and legal procedures are underway. The authorities are committed to ensuring justice by diligently pursuing all individuals implicated in the case. Picture: Siam Rath -- ASEAN NOW 2024-03-16 - 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

Man Arrested Selling E-cigarettes in Chalong By Goongnang Suksawat Chalong –A Thai man was arrested after he was found selling e-cigarettes in Chalong. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322497-man-arrested-selling-e-cigarettes-in-chalong/

Chalong –A Thai man was arrested after he was found selling e-cigarettes in Chalong. The Chalong Police told the Phuket Express that earlier this week they arrested a suspect identified only as Mr. Rachen at a house in Chalong. He was found selling e-cigarettes in the house. Police then seized e-cigarettes from him. Mr. Rachen reportedly admitted to police that all the items seized belong to him. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-03-16 - 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

Fire From Garbage Pile Damages House in Wichit By Goongnang Suksawat Wichit –A fire started from piles of old garbage damaged a house and alarmed residents in Wichit, Mueang Phuket, on Friday (March 15th). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322495-fire-from-garbage-pile-damages-house-in-wichit/

Wichit –A fire started from piles of old garbage damaged a house and alarmed residents in Wichit, Mueang Phuket, on Friday (March 15th). Firefighters at the Wichit Municipality were notified of the fire at 11:40 A.M. in Soi Suk Niran. They arrived at the scene with eight fire engines to find lots of black smoke coming out from the area. It took almost two hours to control the fire. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-03-16 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Two Pattaya Teens Arrested for Vandalizing Public Property at Bali Hai Pier By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya —Pattaya police arrested two teenagers on Thursday, March 14th, for vandalizing public property at the Bali Hai Pier. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322494-two-pattaya-teens-arrested-for-vandalizing-public-property-at-bali-hai-pier/

Pattaya —Pattaya police arrested two teenagers on Thursday, March 14th, for vandalizing public property at the Bali Hai Pier. The suspects, a 15-year-old male identified only as Mr. Mo and another 16-year-old Mr. Nueng, were caught spray-painting electrical boxes, lamp posts, and public benches at Bali Hai Pier. According to Mr. Poramase Ngampiches, the Pattaya Mayor, the vandalism caused significant damage to the area, prompting him to file a police report against the two suspects himself. Pattaya police immediately launched an investigation after reviewing CCTV footage from the area, which led them to identify the culprits. On the evening of March 14th, Pol. Col. Navin Thirawit, Superintendent of Pattaya Police Station, and a team of investigators conducted a raid to apprehend the two vandals. The teenagers were located at their residence in the Banglamung district, Chonburi province, and taken into custody. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-03-16 - 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

Man Killed in Fiery Car Crash in Pattaya on Motorway By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya —A car crashed into a street barrier on the Bangkok-Map Ta Phut Motorway near Pattaya before bursting into flames. The driver was tragically burned to death, said law enforcement. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322493-man-killed-in-fiery-car-crash-in-pattaya-on-motorway/

Pattaya —A car crashed into a street barrier on the Bangkok-Map Ta Phut Motorway near Pattaya before bursting into flames. The driver was tragically burned to death, said law enforcement. The incident occurred at around 5:40 AM on Friday, March 15th, 2024, near kilometer marker 120+700 in the Nongprue sub-district, Banglamung district, Chonburi province. The Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Pattaya Rescue Unit and the Highway Rescue Unit responded to the accident upon receiving the report. Upon arrival, authorities found a Honda HRV sedan engulfed in flames. Firefighters extinguished the blaze after nearly 20 minutes, but the vehicle was extensively damaged. A badly burned, unidentified male body was found deceased inside the car. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-03-16 - 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

Pattaya City to Close Part of Sukhumvit Road for Construction By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: PRPATTAYA Pattaya —Pattaya City and the Pattaya police will be closing a section of Sukhumvit Road near the Pattaya North Intersection (Motorway) due to construction work. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322492-pattaya-city-to-close-part-of-sukhumvit-road-for-construction/

Pattaya —Pattaya City and the Pattaya police will be closing a section of Sukhumvit Road near the Pattaya North Intersection (Motorway) due to construction work. Starting today, March 15th, 2024, traffic cones and barriers will be installed to divert traffic to avoid the closed section. Signs will be placed to guide drivers, and officers will be stationed at the location to assist and direct motorists. A detour to Sattahip will be available via the left lane of the road, while a detour to Naklua will be available via the right lane. By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: PRPATTAYA Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-03-16 - 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

Chopper Rider Seriously Burned in Pattaya Motorbike Crash By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya — A chopper rider sustained serious burn injuries in a fiery collision with a pickup truck on Sukhumvit Road early Friday morning, March 15th. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322491-chopper-rider-seriously-burned-in-pattaya-motorbike-crash/

Pattaya — A chopper rider sustained serious burn injuries in a fiery collision with a pickup truck on Sukhumvit Road early Friday morning, March 15th. The accident occurred at 3:00 AM at the intersection of Motorway 7, inbound to Chonburi, in the Nongprue sub-district, Banglamung district, Chonburi province. The Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Pattaya Rescue Foundation received a report of the crash and dispatched emergency responders to the scene. There, rescue workers found Mr. Yutthana Empong, a chopper rider, lying in the road with severe burns. He received first aid and was transported to Banglamung Hospital for emergency treatment. Mr. Yutthana’s vehicle, a black chopper, was found badly damaged and engulfed in flames. Bystanders extinguished the fire with fire extinguishers before emergency services arrived. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-03-16 - 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

Israeli woman detained in Thailand for unauthorised nursery by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post An Israeli woman was detained in Surat Thani on accusations of running an unauthorised nursery facility for foreign children on Koh Pha Ngan. Four other international individuals were also apprehended for unlawful employment and associated transgressions. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322490-israeli-woman-detained-in-thailand-for-unauthorised-nursery/

An Israeli woman was detained in Surat Thani on accusations of running an unauthorised nursery facility for foreign children on Koh Pha Ngan. Four other international individuals were also apprehended for unlawful employment and associated transgressions. Noppadol Khaomali, the Koh Pha Ngan district leader, guided local authorities, police, immigration officials, and representatives from pertinent agencies to a house inspection in the southern province’s tambon Koh Pha Ngan yesterday, March 14. The property was illicitly functioning as a nursery for foreign children. During the raid, five foreigners, three women and two men were apprehended, according to Noppadol Khaomali. The Israeli owner of the nursery, 56 year old Suli Shulamite Avraham was among those arrested. She was charged with being a foreign national running or establishing a nursery without permission, employing foreign nationals without work permits, and failing to report the employment of foreign workers to the local registrar. The two males, 50 year old Israeli national Alon Jacob and 38 year old British national Daniel Stewart were charged with being foreign nationals working without work permits. The other two women, a South African national, 42 year old Louise Cilliers and Myanmar national, 28 year old Hla Hla Win were charged with being foreign nationals with work permits failing to notify their employer, workplace location, and type of work to the local registrar. All detainees were handed over to the Koh Phangan police station investigators for legal proceedings. In the preceding week, police apprehended an American woman for allegedly running an unauthorised nursery on this tourist island, renowned for the popular Full Moon Party. Around 20 foreign children were discovered on the premises. Three foreign women working as babysitters and four Myanmar housekeepers were also arrested and charged with unlawful employment, reported Bangkok Post. On Tuesday, a Russian man was detained for unlawfully operating a vehicle rental business on Koh Pha Ngan. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Full story: The Thaiger 2024-03-16 - 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

Borrowed money turns to ashes: Thai man loses 100,000 baht in van fire (video) by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ มานิตย์ มกรกุณฑล A Thai man’s fortunes went up in smoke when he borrowed 100,000 baht from a bank to settle an informal debt, only to lose the entire sum in a van fire accident in the central province of Prachin Buri. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322489-borrowed-money-turns-to-ashes-thai-man-loses-100000-baht-in-van-fire-video/

A Thai man’s fortunes went up in smoke when he borrowed 100,000 baht from a bank to settle an informal debt, only to lose the entire sum in a van fire accident in the central province of Prachin Buri. Firefighters from Prahantakam District Office in Prachin Buri rushed to extinguish the fire that broke out in the van owned by 34 year old Chumnum. Officers managed to stamp out the fire within 10 minutes, but the van and Chumnum’s belongings were completely damaged. Fortunately, Chumnum managed to escape from the van unharmed. However, despite his physical safety, he appeared visibly distressed. He sat anxiously on the roadside near the accident site, awaiting the arrival of the authorities. In an interview with Channel 7, Chumnum disclosed that he lost 100,000 baht in cash in the incident. He and his mother had borrowed money from the bank to settle the family’s informal debts, and he had stored the cash in the van in preparation for repayment. While driving, he detected a burning odour and decided to pull over to inspect his van. After getting out and inspecting the vehicle for a few minutes, a fire suddenly erupted. His mobile phone and the cash were in the van but he was unable to retrieve them. He stood and stared at the fire in confusion and shock. Chumnum said he still could not think of a solution to the problem. He told a reporter that he would sit there until his relatives arrived at the scene. There was no report on the cause of the fire but several news outlets speculated that it was an engine malfunction combined with the hot weather in the afternoon. A similar incident of a motorist losing money on the rode was reported in October of 2022. In this case, several drivers noticed 1,000-baht bills scattered on a road in the Isaan province of Khon Kaen but could not identify the source. Each driver decided to stop and collect the notes, not for themselves but to return them to their rightful owner. Nearly 100,000 baht was returned to its owner, a Thai woman. The woman said her employer forgot her cash on the step of his vehicle’s door and drove off causing the bills to scatter around. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ มานิตย์ มกรกุณฑล Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-16 - 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