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Lufthansa execs partner with Thai child welfare centre by Samantha Rose Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail A high-profile delegation from the Lufthansa Group embarked on a special mission to the Child Protection and Welfare Centre in Huay Yai, near Pattaya, on Tuesday, March 12. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322488-lufthansa-execs-partner-with-thai-child-welfare-centre/

A high-profile delegation from the Lufthansa Group embarked on a special mission to the Child Protection and Welfare Centre in Huay Yai, near Pattaya, on Tuesday, March 12. Led by Frank Naeve, Senior Vice President of Global Markets & Stations, the assembly of over 200 top-tier executives from various countries across the Asia Pacific region, including Singapore, Vietnam, Australia, Taiwan, and China, were welcomed by Ratchada Chomjinda, Director of the Human Help Network Foundation for Thai Children (HHN Foundation), and Siromes Akarapongpanich, Director of the Child Protection and Development Center (CPDC). The HHN Foundation has long been dedicated to uplifting underprivileged Thai children, and this visit served as a spotlight on their diverse initiatives. The focal point of the event was agricultural innovation, featuring captivating presentations on groundbreaking projects such as fish farming in tanks, insect farming, and an innovative Aquaponics system facilitating pesticide-free vegetable cultivation. Beyond the boardroom, the centre buzzed with engaging activities tailored to child protection. Attendees participated in recycled bag creation, friendly sports, and strategic card games. The children showcased their talents through traditional performances, Hula-Hula dancing, cover dance routines, and musical performances. Moreover, an auction featuring recycled bags bolstered the organisation’s financial resources, ensuring ongoing support for their vital work. by Samantha Rose Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail 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

UPDATE: American 19-year-old to be interviewed by Phuket police over sexual abuse of horses at local stables by Carla Boonkong & Pranee O' Connor One of the horses at the stables in Pa Khlok which the 19-year-old American man was seen with in CCTV footage supplied to police in Thalang. The young man is due to meet with police on Saturday at Thalang Police Station in Phuket. American 19, caught abusing horses in Phuket. Thalang Police to grill suspect after disturbing allegations & CCTV evidence. Appointment made with father’s consent. Cruelty or abuse charges loom. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322483-american-19-year-old-to-be-interviewed-by-phuket-police-over-sexual-abuse-of-horses-at-loca/

Bangkok’s children gasp for air amidst pollution nightmare by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of NDTV Children in Bangkok suffer daily from heavy air pollution, battling constant coughs and other possible respiratory illnesses. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322486-bangkok’s-children-gasp-for-air-amidst-pollution-nightmare/

Children in Bangkok suffer daily from heavy air pollution, battling constant coughs and other possible respiratory illnesses. Pupils at Suan Lumphini School confront the harsh reality of their environment each morning as they assemble under coloured flags denoting the day’s air quality: a distressing routine with red signalling the worst and blue the best. Thailand grapples annually with dire air pollution levels, its cities topping global pollution charts for days on end last year. Amongst those most vulnerable are the children, facing heightened risks of long-term respiratory damage. Lalipthat Prakham, a maid, laments how her eight year old daughter has already fallen ill due to the polluted air. Despite promises from Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin to address the issue, tangible solutions remain elusive. Residents like Nanthnan Hajiub witness firsthand the toll it takes on their children, with his 11 year old son now battling a sporadic cough. Yet, not all children suffer equally. While Bangkok’s elite private schools boast air purifiers and filtration systems, public institutions like Suan Lumphini School are left to fend for themselves. In a glimmer of hope, Chulalongkorn University initiated a pollution study, providing a clean room equipped with purifying air-conditioning units in schools situated in highly polluted areas. This initiative aims to mitigate some of the harmful effects on students’ health. Protecting children’s health Suphatpong Anuchitsopapan, the school’s head, stresses the urgency of the situation, advocating for better measures to combat pollution’s adverse effects on students. According to Teerachai Amnuaylojaroen from the University of Phayao’s School of Energy and Environment, children face heightened risks due to their still-developing bodies and faster breathing rates, exposing them to more pollutants. The World Health Organisation echoes these concerns, highlighting the grave risks pollution poses to children’s health and development. While clean rooms offer temporary respite, they are not a panacea for the pollution epidemic. The lack of concrete data on children hospitalised due to pollution underscores the severity of the issue. Back at Suan Lumphini School, teacher Jiraporn Sukpraserd finds solace in her classroom’s clean room, acknowledging its vital role in safeguarding her young charges’ health, reported VN Express. However, for parents like Bounleua Boriharn, whose daughter is not afforded the same protection, the anguish persists. With Bangkok often shrouded in fog, his concern for his child’s well-being intensifies. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of NDTV 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

The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) is set to procure either Swedish-produced Gripen E-series or American F-16 Block 70 fighter jets later this year. The information came to light during an address by RTAF chief Phanpakdee Pattanakul to senior air force officials at the RTAF headquarters. Phanpakdee noted that the original plan to purchase American F-35 fighter jets was no longer feasible, leaving the Gripen E-series and the F-16 Block 70 as potential replacements. The move comes as the RTAF seeks to decommission three of its seven fighter squadrons due to the age of the aircraft, each of which comprises 12 jets. Phanpakdee stressed the need to maintain the existing number of fighters to uphold training, operations, and a balance with neighbouring nations. A selection committee has been established to determine which of the two shortlisted fighter jets will deliver the best value for money. A source revealed that the RTAF has requested 19 billion baht (US$530 million) for the fiscal year beginning in October 2025 to procure the first four new fighter jets. If the cabinet approves this request, the procurement process should kick off between May and June this year. The jet procurement plan is a component of the RTAF’s white paper that outlines its future development targets. Other significant development areas include a research and development plan to leverage quantum AI technology. This technology combines quantum computing with advanced machine learning for data analysis, problem-solving, and decision-making, Phanpakdee explained, reported Bangkok Post. This R&D strategy will be rolled out as the air RTAF reduces its personnel without compromising its capacity. In related news, the RTAF relinquished ownership of Kantarat Golf Course near Don Mueang Airport to allow for airport expansion. Under Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s initiative, the Defence Ministry is transferring unused military land for public benefit. Compensation negotiations are ongoing, enabling the development of Thupatemi Golf Course and a new sports complex. Additionally, a sub-committee is addressing Sattahip district’s demand for improved electricity services through the Provincial Electricity Authority. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Gripen (skiesmag.com) 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

UPDATE: Thai Tourism Authority Reports Surge in Chinese Tourists After Visa Waiver By Kittisak Phalaharn PHOTO: INN News National—On March 14th, 2024, Mrs. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, the Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), publicly revealed statistics of the number of Chinese tourists to Thailand increasing significantly after permanently waiving visa requirements with China. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322456-tat-upbeat-over-significant-visa-free-chinese-arrival-numbers/?do=findComment&comment=18769709

Thai Tourism Authority Reports Surge in Chinese Tourists After Visa Waiver By Kittisak Phalaharn PHOTO: INN News National—On March 14th, 2024, Mrs. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, the Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), publicly revealed statistics of the number of Chinese tourists to Thailand increasing significantly after permanently waiving visa requirements with China. TAT received positive responses from Chinese tourists according to Chinese data from “People’s Daily Online” and “Trip.com” after the permanently waived visa started on March 1st. According to the statistics from Chinese databases, it was estimated that by 2024, the number of Thai tourists visiting China would be twofold and the number of Chinese tourists visiting Thailand would be threefold compared to the pre-COVID-19 period, said Thapanee. Trip.com stated that the number of Chinese tourists traveling to Thailand increased up to 30% and the bookings from Thai tourists to China increased up to threefold compared to 2019, according to Thapanee. 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

American 19-year-old to be interviewed by Phuket police over sexual abuse of horses at local stables by Carla Boonkong & Pranee O' Connor One of the horses at the stables in Pa Khlok which the 19-year-old American man was seen with in CCTV footage supplied to police in Thalang. The young man is due to meet with police on Saturday at Thalang Police Station in Phuket. American 19, caught abusing horses in Phuket. Thalang Police to grill suspect after disturbing allegations & CCTV evidence. Appointment made with father’s consent. Cruelty or abuse charges loom. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322483-american-19-year-old-to-be-interviewed-by-phuket-police-over-sexual-abuse-of-horses-at-loca/

One of the horses at the stables in Pa Khlok which the 19-year-old American man was seen with in CCTV footage supplied to police in Thalang. The young man is due to meet with police on Saturday at Thalang Police Station in Phuket. American 19, caught abusing horses in Phuket. Thalang Police to grill suspect after disturbing allegations & CCTV evidence. Appointment made with father’s consent. Cruelty or abuse charges loom. Thai police are to interview a 19-year-old American man in the Thalang area of Phuket over sexual interference with horses. An appointment with police was made after officers with Thalang Police Station and tourist police met the man’s father this week. It followed a reluctant complaint by local horse owners in the Pa Klok sub-district over the young man’s repeated behaviour. The complaint included CCTV evidence to support the claims. Thalang Police are actively investigating a disturbing complaint involving a 19-year-old American man made by locals. A local couple who breed horses allege that the young man is committing indecent acts with animals. At length, their stable is located in the Pa Khlok sub-district of Phuket. The worried owners Chatcharo Lek-Awut, 50, and his wife, Ms. Praphada, 43, initially reported the ongoing incidents to the Thalang Police last month. by Carla Boonkong & Pranee O' Connor Full story: Thai Examiner.com 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

Move Forward Dissolution Bid Part Of Thaksin’s Secret Deal By Thai Newsroom Reporters Composite photo showing de facto Pheu Thai boss Thaksin Shinawatra, left, and former Move Forward leader Pita Limjaroenrat, right. Credit: Thai Rath A PREMEDITATED ATTEMPT TOWARD a dissolution of the Move Forward has been known as an ultimate part of a secret deal earlier made between de facto Pheu Thai boss-cum-convict on parole Thaksin Shinawatra and the powers-that-be, according to a partisan source. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322482-move-forward-dissolution-bid-part-of-thaksin’s-secret-deal/

A PREMEDITATED ATTEMPT TOWARD a dissolution of the Move Forward has been known as an ultimate part of a secret deal earlier made between de facto Pheu Thai boss-cum-convict on parole Thaksin Shinawatra and the powers-that-be, according to a partisan source. The secret deal which had evidently seen the de facto Pheu Thai boss-cum-convict return home without being literally put behind bars for a single day for his court-convicted misconduct in office, the jaw-dropping setup of a Pheu Thai-led coalition government and the successful naming of former real estate tycoon Srettha Thavisin as head of government was believed to involve as a pivotal part the sought-after dissolution of the Move Forward, said the partisan source who only spoke on condition of anonymity. The unidentified powers-that-be had had unabated fears that the de facto Pheu Thai boss-cum-convict on parole might probably manage to reset the Pheu Thai-led coalition sooner or later to the extent that the Move Forward be finally included as replacement for a few ultra-conservative camps, such as the Bhumjaithai under de facto party boss Newin Chidchob, the Palang Pracharath led by former deputy prime minister Prawit Wongsuwan and the Ruam Thai Sang Chart under de facto party boss/former coup leader-turned-prime minister/now privy councillor Prayut Chan-o-cha. Those ultra-conservative camps might probably be kicked out of the Pheu Thai-led coalition government as soon as in the next few months if the Move Forward survived the legal battle launched in the Election Commission’s lawsuit in pursuit of the progressive party’s dissolution at an order of the Constitutional Court, the partisan source said. By Thai Newsroom Reporters TOP: Composite photo showing de facto Pheu Thai boss Thaksin Shinawatra, left, and former Move Forward leader Pita Limjaroenrat, right. Credit: Thai Rath Full story: THAI NEWSROOM 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

to continue: Thailand Live Saturday 16 March 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1322481-thailand-live-saturday-16-march-2024/

I find happiness among my loved ones as my health improves : Thaksin Thaksin Shinawatra, convict on parole, said in his first interview today after returning to Thailand that ‘Happiness is at home’.” Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322475-i-find-happiness-among-my-loved-ones-as-my-health-improves-thaksin/

RTAF to procure either Gripen E-series or F-16 Block 70 jets by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Gripen (skiesmag.com) The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) is set to procure either Swedish-produced Gripen E-series or American F-16 Block 70 fighter jets later this year. The information came to light during an address by RTAF chief Phanpakdee Pattanakul to senior air force officials at the RTAF headquarters. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322485-rtaf-to-procure-either-gripen-e-series-or-f-16-block-70-jets/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin wrote on his X account today that Time Magazine came to interview him in the middle of February, seeking to cover political issues since the new prime minister took office, saying that he was to be the main focus of their article. Interview with Time is enjoyable but more questions about politics were expected: PM Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322458-interview-with-time-is-enjoyable-but-more-questions-about-politics-were-expected-pm/

Sky Doctor Flies Ailing German Tourist From Koh Samui To Trang by TNR Staff The German tourist who suffered a stroke being taken to Trang Hospital in an army helicopter. Photo: TV Channel 7 THE SKY DOCTOR service flew a German tourist who had suffered a stroke on Koh Samui to Trang Hospital and saved his life, TV Channel 7 said this morning (Mar. 15). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322436-sky-doctor-flies-ailing-german-tourist-from-koh-samui-to-trang/

THE SKY DOCTOR service flew a German tourist who had suffered a stroke on Koh Samui to Trang Hospital and saved his life, TV Channel 7 said this morning (Mar. 15). At 11.15 a.m. yesterday National Institute of Emergency Medicine (NIEM) was asked by the Nerendthorn Centre on Koh Samui to send an aircraft to transport an unidentified 71-year-old German tourist from Koh Samui Hospital to Trang Hospital as he had suffered a stroke. The tourist had sought treatment after symptoms of stiff tongue, unclear speech and weak limbs had set in. Preliminary CT scan revealed a blood clot in the cerebral artery with the patient urgently needing specialised treatment that exceeded Koh Samui Hospital’s capacity. He might not have got timely treatment if he were sent to Trang Hospital by ferry and road. by TNR Staff Picture: The German tourist who suffered a stroke being taken to Trang Hospital in an army helicopter. Photo: TV Channel 7 Full story: THAI NEWSROOM 2024-03-15 - 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

MFP warned of legal implications ahead of general debate by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Visuth Chainaroon Facebook page A general debate has been scheduled for April 3 and 4, with a cautionary note to the opposition that they may face legal consequences if issues related to the ex-premier, Thaksin Shinawatra, are raised. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322435-mfp-warned-of-legal-implications-ahead-of-general-debate/

A general debate has been scheduled for April 3 and 4, with a cautionary note to the opposition that they may face legal consequences if issues related to the ex-premier, Thaksin Shinawatra, are raised. This debate doesn’t require a censure vote under Section 152 of the constitution and will span over two days, revealed Wisut Chainarun, the chief government whip. It is foreseen that the opposition will be allocated nearly 30 hours for the debate. The decision to set these dates came after the opposition filed a motion for the debate on Wednesday. The opposition, largely steered by the Move Forward Party (MFP), is critical of the government’s failure to deliver on its promise to execute core policies announced in Parliament over six months ago. Wisut expressed appreciation for the general debate as a tool for ensuring accountability. The executive branch, he confirmed, is ready to address all questions without the need to designate a team of debaters to protect the Cabinet ministers. He anticipates a smooth debate provided the opposition refrains from involving individuals not part of the Parliament. This statement was in response to queries about the possibility of issues related to Thaksin being broached. Thaksin has been under fire for the parole he recently received from the Ministry of Justice, and the ministry’s decision to keep the convicted ex-leader in hospital detention rather than prison before his early release. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin previously asserted that Thaksin’s discharge was in compliance with the law and denied any interference to expedite his early release. Wisut emphasised the boundaries of the general debate. As per parliament’s regulations, any reference made during the debate to a third person not linked to the debate targets could lead to legal prosecution. This, he believes, would be unjust to anyone mentioned but not present in the chamber to defend themselves, reported Bangkok Post. Moreover, parliamentary immunity does not cover the act of mentioning a third person during a debate, said Wisut. “I’m afraid the debater will have to face the music alone.” by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Visuth Chainaroon Facebook page Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-15 - 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 workers in South Korea: Amnesty for Thai nationals by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn Facebook page The Labour Ministry of Thailand has approached the South Korean government to consider granting amnesty to around 150,000 Thai workers currently residing and working unlawfully in South Korea. The plea was made yesterday by Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322434-illegal-workers-in-south-korea-amnesty-for-thai-nationals/

The Labour Ministry of Thailand has approached the South Korean government to consider granting amnesty to around 150,000 Thai workers currently residing and working unlawfully in South Korea. The plea was made yesterday by Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn. Phiphat met with his South Korean counterpart, Lee Jeong-sik, in Seoul on Wednesday, March 13, to examine the predicament. According to Phiphat, approximately 7,000 Thai nationals, who were working unlawfully in South Korea, were sent back home last year. However, the remaining count of Thai workers still tops among all foreign nationals working illegally in South Korea. Most of these workers, Phiphat explains, initially migrated to South Korea through legal channels but became illegal workers when they switched employers. Phiphat proposed amnesty to Lee, explaining that the majority of these workers have been in the country for at least three to four years and have developed crucial skills, including proficiency in the Korean language. He requested assistance in securing legal work permits for these individuals. The Thai labour minister also suggested that the Korean authorities could conduct skills tests before the grant of such permits. However, he confessed that the chance of such an amnesty being granted is minimal. Lee reportedly expressed concerns about the proposal and promised to discuss the issue with the Justice Ministry and Immigration Bureau of South Korea. Additionally, the two ministers discussed the possibility of bringing in Thai workers on E7, E8, and E9 visas. Phiphat stated that the South Korean government appreciates the quality of Thai workers but recommended that they improve their language skills to enhance their communication with their employers. Further discussions were held regarding the possibility of sending more Thai workers to work in South Korea’s agriculture and fishery industries. The Bhumjaithai MP also revealed that four memorandums of understanding were signed during these discussions, reported Bangkok Post. However, in response to rumours that Japan’s visa-free policy for Thai travellers might soon be cancelled due to the spike in illegal Thai workers in Japan, the Thai Foreign Affairs Ministry’s Consular Affairs Department confirmed that it is due to expire next year. Whether Tokyo will extend this policy remains uncertain. Next month, Phiphat will be visiting Japan to discuss these issues further. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn Facebook page Full story: The Thaiger 2024-03-15 - 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

Visa-free policies boost international travel and economies by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The international travel industry experienced a significant rebound last year, following the implementation of visa-free policies by various governments. These policies aimed to rejuvenate their ailing economies through the influx of spending by foreign tourists. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322429-visa-free-policies-boost-international-travel-and-economies/

The international travel industry experienced a significant rebound last year, following the implementation of visa-free policies by various governments. These policies aimed to rejuvenate their ailing economies through the influx of spending by foreign tourists. Thailand, for instance, witnessed 28 million arrivals in 2023 largely due to the strong performance in the last quarter. This surge was precipitated by visa exemptions extended to citizens of China, India, Taiwan, and Kazakhstan. An extended stay period of 90 days granted to Russian nationals also contributed significantly to this upturn. Adith Chairattananon, the honorary secretary-general of the Association of Thai Travel Agents, highlighted the utility of visa-free schemes as a commonly adopted approach in many countries across economic scales. These schemes are specifically employed to stimulate economies via international tourism. China, the world’s second-largest economy, also adopted this approach by waiving visa requirements for six countries, including five European nations and Malaysia, in November last year. This policy saw a drastic increase of 28.5% in arrivals from these countries within the first 30 days. Consequently, Beijing expanded the policy to include other countries, including Thailand and Singapore. Adith further noted that the visa exemption scheme has been particularly successful in the Chinese and Taiwanese markets in Thailand. He anticipates the continuation of this positive momentum from visa privileges this year as well. “Tourism operators have been told that the government will extend the visa exemption to both Taiwan and India for one year once the initial period for the first phase ends in May this year. This policy will help keep positive momentum for the whole year.” Continuation of positive momentum Sarayuth Mallam, vice-president of the Phuket Tourist Association, highlighted the increased demand from long-stay tourists in Phuket, particularly from Russia and Ukraine. The ongoing war has made it difficult for relatives in these two countries to meet, leading many to relocate to Phuket. Despite the benefits of these policies, concerns have been raised about the potential exploitation of the visa-free policy by illegal workers and criminals. However, Sarayuth believes that the benefits far outweigh the disadvantages. He noted that the policy opens avenues to new markets and high-potential segments. Adith also pointed out that not only foreigners, but Thai citizens as well, have exploited visa-free privileges and worked illegally in many countries. He suggested that the government consider implementing the policy on a case-by-case basis to ensure more effective results. Adith also emphasized the importance of promoting second-tier destinations that have the potential to welcome foreign tourists but lack sufficient demand. He suggested that six airports in six provinces could be upgraded using the visa-free policy. These include U-Tapao Airport in Chon Buri, Khon Kaen, Udon Thani, Chiang Rai, Krabi, and Hat Yai in Songkhla, reported Bangkok Post. Adith cautioned that extending the period of stay might attract more grey business to Thailand and stressed the importance of preventive measures, such as criminal record checks before screening at immigration. He also suggested studying existing data of travellers to provide an appropriate period of stay for each nationality. by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-15 - 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

Anutin touches down in Phuket for brief inspection By Peter Roche PHOTO: Matichon Thailand’s Interior Minister flew into Phuket yesterday to monitor the current state of affairs following a number of high-profile incidents, most notably the 45 year old Swiss man allegedly kicking a female Thai doctor in the back as she sat on the steps in front of his house in Cape Yamu. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322428-anutin-touches-down-in-phuket-for-brief-inspection/