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Household debt surge impacts property and auto sectors by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Money Expo Facebook The accumulated domestic debt and non-performing loans (NPLs), coupled with stagnant buying power, have continued to suppress domestic consumption since the previous year, with the property and automotive sectors suffering the most significant blow. This is reflected in the high rate of home loan refusals and car repossessions. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322314-household-debt-surge-impacts-property-and-auto-sectors/

The accumulated domestic debt and non-performing loans (NPLs), coupled with stagnant buying power, have continued to suppress domestic consumption since the previous year, with the property and automotive sectors suffering the most significant blow. This is reflected in the high rate of home loan refusals and car repossessions. The numerous interest rate increases last year exacerbated the financing issues, with some economists arguing that the prolonged period of low interest rates before the increases have led to the current overwhelming debt level. The National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) data reveals that the household debt-to-GDP ratio, nearing 90.9% as of the third quarter of 2023, is considered high and can inhibit individual spending. While the recent household debt level is not the highest in the past five years, the concern lies with the quality of household debt. Those intending to purchase a house may find it challenging to secure a loan due to financial institutions’ cautious approach in light of the fragile purchasing power. Officials also view car repossessions as a critical figure to monitor this year. According to Alongkot Boonmasuk, secretary-general of the Housing Finance Association, the mortgage rejection rate currently exceeds 50%. This surge is attributed to low-income earners seeking to purchase residential units priced below 3 million baht (US$ 84,000). Developers attribute the higher rejection rate to various factors, including the economic slowdown, multiple interest rate hikes, high household debt levels, inadequate financial planning, and developers’ eagerness to boost sales. Inevitably, these factors have resulted in developers falling short of their revenue targets. Generally, prospective homebuyers book a unit, making a down payment worth 5 to 15% of the unit price, payable monthly over 6 to 12 months for a low-rise house or up to three years for a condo unit, depending on the project and developer. However, during the down payment period, if the economy takes a downturn, some mortgage applications are rejected when the property transfer is due. The rejection reasons could be linked to the homebuyers’ details or the financial institutions’ policies. For instance, a poor economy could lead to lower earnings for some buyers, while banks may adopt a more cautious lending approach. Household debt Last year’s five interest rate hikes also contributed to the higher rejection rate by reducing consumer purchasing power. Banks responded by imposing stricter lending rules for both existing and new buyers. For those who had completed their down payment, the high interest rates at the time of the property transfer, compared to when they booked the unit, reduced their borrowing capacity. With higher interest rates, potential homebuyers often have to make a higher down payment or seek a co-borrower to get approved for a mortgage. However, not all potential homebuyers succeed at these options, leading to increased mortgage rejection rates. Some misunderstand the developer’s screening process on the booking date, thinking it guarantees mortgage approval. In the third quarter of 2023, the quality of household debt deteriorated for all types of credit, with NPLs amounting to 152 billion baht (US$ 4.3 billion), or 2.79% of total loans, up from 2.71% in the previous quarter. At the end of 2022, NPLs totalled 140 billion baht (US$ 4 billion), making up 2.62% of total loans. Despite ranking fourth on the list of highest household NPLs in the third quarter of 2023, special mention (SM) auto loans were remarkably high for the quarter at 14.6%, followed by personal loans at 6.66%. SM loans refer to debts unpaid for 30 to 90 days, needing special attention, reported Bangkok Post. In 2023, up to 250,000 cars were repossessed, compared to the average of 180,000 seizures a year. According to the Federation of Thai Industries, sales of pickups remained sluggish in January, dropping over 43% year-on-year as banks remained cautious in determining loan requests. The downturn in the domestic automotive industry was a significant factor affecting January’s Manufacturing Production Index, which decreased by 2.94% year-on-year to 99.2 points. by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Money Expo Facebook Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-14 - 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

Thaksin pays respect at Bangkok city pillar shrine before leaving for Chiang Mai Former PM Thaksin Shinawatra appeared for the first time since returning to his Chan Song La residence this morning, along with his youngest daughter Paetongtarn Shinawatra, leader of the Pheu Thai party. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322313-thaksin-pays-respect-at-bangkok-city-pillar-shrine-before-leaving-for-chiang-mai/

Former PM Thaksin Shinawatra appeared for the first time since returning to his Chan Song La residence this morning, along with his youngest daughter Paetongtarn Shinawatra, leader of the Pheu Thai party. At 5:19 am, they went to pay respects at the Bangkok City Pillar shrine before boarding his jet plane to Chiang Mai at about 7 am. He still wears a neck support but no arm sling and can walk on his own. Previously when he met former Cambodian PM Hun Sen, he wored neck support and arm sling. Yesterday, he went to pay respect to the Supreme Patriarch and made merits at Wat Ratchabophit Sathitmahasimaram temple. He did not have a neck support and walked on his own. Source: Thai PBS 2024-03-14 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand’s smartphone market to grow 3% in 2024, says Counterpoint Research by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Somchai Poomlard A 3% growth in Thailand’s smartphone market is anticipated in 2024, fuelled by the need for upgrades and enhanced technology features, says an international research firm. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322312-thailand’s-smartphone-market-to-grow-3-in-2024-says-counterpoint-research/

A 3% growth in Thailand’s smartphone market is anticipated in 2024, fuelled by the need for upgrades and enhanced technology features, says an international research firm. This follows a 2% rise in 2024, when Thailand was the only Southeast Asian nation to experience marginal growth, due to the strong performance of budget smartphones, as per Counterpoint Research’s Southeast Asia Monthly Smartphone Tracker report. Febriman Abdillah, a senior analyst at Counterpoint Research, explained that the 2024 growth in smartphone shipments could be 3% year-on-year, spurred by the increased demand for smartphone upgrades with 5G and cutting-edge technologies. This is also influenced by the Thai government’s commitment to fast-tracking digital transformation, which will necessitate more reliable phones due to increasingly digital lifestyles. The research firm predicts sustained growth in the lower price segment as the specifications of smartphones within this segment improve, such as larger storage and battery capacity. Consumers might upgrade their smartphones to stay abreast of the latest technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), new camera systems, and novel designs. With the ongoing expansion of the 5G network and the telecom regulator’s initiative to roll out another new spectrum, demand for high data speed in Thailand is increasing. Mobile operators are encouraging customers to switch to 5G as more affordable 5G smartphones become available. Thailand’s economy is forecasted to grow robustly in 2024, despite a lower GDP projection than in 2023. This growth is expected to result from elevated domestic consumption, private investment, increasing foreign tourist arrivals, and expanding exports. The government also has plans to stimulate the digital economy and spur consumption through digital wallets and tax incentives. Yet, potential global and regional economic challenges could impact inflation due to Thailand’s dependence on energy imports. Glen Cardoza, another senior analyst at Counterpoint, noted that Thailand’s smartphone market grew by 2% year-on-year in 2023 due to improved consumer sentiment towards year-end. The budget smartphone segment, priced below US$200, saw a 17% year-on-year growth in 2023, while all other price ranges saw a decline. Smartphone market Cardoza explained that the budget segment’s noticeable improvement in the Thai market and the overall bleak economic situation were driving factors. Political uncertainty and a consistently subdued economy discouraged big spending. However, as the labour market began to show signs of recovery and average wages increased, demand for smartphones grew, particularly among price-conscious consumers. While Samsung led the smartphone market with a 21% share, its shipments decreased by 4% year-on-year in 2023 due to its focus on mid- to high-end smartphones. Chinese brands like Xiaomi, Oppo, Vivo, and Realme saw single-digit growth due to their focus on the promising budget segment priced below US$200. However, Apple’s volume grew the most, rising 26% year-on-year, despite belonging to the premium category, reported Bangkok Post. Cardoza added that as the economy further improves, consumers across price tiers will look to upgrade, and 5G smartphone shipments will increase further. The below-US$200 segment will be crucial as these smartphones will outsell any other segment. by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Somchai Poomlard Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-14 - 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

Mother demands justice after son’s death in hit-and-run allegedly involving German driver in Ban Kurt By Online Reporter Image: ฤทัย กระจ่างวงศ์ [Screen grab from a live stream] In a heartfelt plea for justice, Mrs. Aomruthai Krajanswang, a 42-year-old resident of Ban Kurt in Prachuap Khiri Khan, has called attention to the death of her eldest son, Suphawis Krajanswang, 25, following a hit-and-run accident on March 8, 2024. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322311-mother-demands-justice-after-son’s-death-in-hit-and-run-allegedly-involving-german-driver/

In a heartfelt plea for justice, Mrs. Aomruthai Krajanswang, a 42-year-old resident of Ban Kurt in Prachuap Khiri Khan, has called attention to the death of her eldest son, Suphawis Krajanswang, 25, following a hit-and-run accident on March 8, 2024. The alleged perpetrator, identified only as a German national, is accused of showing no remorse for the incident, prompting concerns about accountability and justice. Suphawis, described by his mother as the “major pillar” of their family, was fatally struck by a Ford car while spending time near the beach at Ban Kurt after a volleyball practice session. His untimely death has left a void in the lives of his parents, who are both vendors at the local market. Known for his hard work, savings discipline, and friendly demeanor among customers, Suphawis’s loss is deeply felt within the local community. By Online Reporter Image: ฤทัย กระจ่างวงศ์ [Screen grab from a live stream] Source: HUA HIN TODAY 2024-03-14 - 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

Expected tripartite wage committee meeting unlikely to raise Thai minimum wage to 400 baht by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Josue Isai Ramos Figueroa, Unsplash An anticipated meeting of the tripartite wage committee later this month is expected to sanction a second increase in the minimum daily wage for this year. However, the Employers’ Confederation of Thai Trade and Industry (EconThai) suggests the approved hike is unlikely to take the wage to the 400 baht mark. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322310-expected-tripartite-wage-committee-meeting-unlikely-to-raise-thai-minimum-wage-to-400-baht/

An anticipated meeting of the tripartite wage committee later this month is expected to sanction a second increase in the minimum daily wage for this year. However, the Employers’ Confederation of Thai Trade and Industry (EconThai) suggests the approved hike is unlikely to take the wage to the 400 baht mark. According to Thanit Sorat, the vice-chair of EconThai, the committee, comprised of government representatives, employers, and employees, will convene on March 26. This follows a meeting held on February 27 where a proposal for a 1.5% increase from the preceding wage hike was positively received. The computation of the minimum wage is influenced by several factors, including labour productivity, GDP, and inflation. “If the 1.5% hike is approved, overall wages will experience a slight increase, but the minimum daily wage will retain a figure below 400 baht (US$ 11),” stated Sorat. He added that both employers and employees find this figure satisfactory. The latest increase, averaging 2.37%, or an additional 2 to 16 baht (US$ 0.056 to 0.45) per day, came into effect on January 1. Thanit further revealed that the committee is also deliberating on the Labour Ministry’s request for an increase at the municipal level. This matter will also feature on the forthcoming meeting’s agenda. A source from the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) disclosed that the review of wages has been prompted by a government announcement promising to raise the minimum daily wage to 400 baht within the year. As a result of the January increase, minimum wage workers in Phuket currently receive the highest national rate of 370 baht (US$ 10) per day, reported Bangkok Post. The source also expressed concerns that the proposed second hike, initially planned for the following month, could impose a financial strain on business operators, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), despite the increment being relatively minor. The source suggested that the government should consider implementing stimulus measures rather than instigating another wage increase. by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Josue Isai Ramos Figueroa, Unsplash Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-14 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Young vendor nabbed for illicit e-cigarette sales in Nong Khai by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Police in Nong Khai arrested an 18 year old for illegally selling imported e-cigarettes, seizing 30 boxes hidden in a shoulder bag, ready for distribution. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322308-young-vendor-nabbed-for-illicit-e-cigarette-sales-in-nong-khai/

Police in Nong Khai arrested an 18 year old for illegally selling imported e-cigarettes, seizing 30 boxes hidden in a shoulder bag, ready for distribution. In a significant crackdown on the illegal e-cigarette trade, police in Nong Khai detained a young individual for operating an illicit business out of a local resort room. The arrest took place yesterday when the officers discovered 30 boxes of e-cigarettes, which had been smuggled into the country without passing through the correct customs procedures. The police operation was led by Police Colonel Yuthana Ngamchad, Chief of Nong Khai Police Station, alongside Police Colonel Kasem Mutaporn, Chief of Provincial Police. Their investigation had identified suspicious activity linked to the young suspect, who had rented a room at a resort in Phra That Bang Phuan Sub-district, Mueang Nong Khai District. During the raid, officers found the suspect inside the room, where he confessed to having e-cigarettes. Upon further search, they uncovered not only the e-cigarettes but also seven boxes of e-cigarette pods concealed within a white shoulder bag. These products were prepared for sale to teenagers and customers in the area, reported KhaoSod. The suspect was charged with aiding and abetting the concealment, sale, and possession of goods known to have been illegally imported into the kingdom. In related news, authorities in Kamphaeng Saen, Nakhon Pathom, were left stunned as they uncovered a thriving black market for e-cigarettes, with minors allegedly freely purchasing from a suspicious vending machine. In a bustling market scene in Kamphaeng Saen, the Thai Consumer Protection Police Division (CPPD) received a tip-off from concerned locals, triggering a jaw-dropping investigation into underage vaping. Responding swiftly to the report, CPPD operatives descended upon the market, determined to root out the illicit activity. The CPPD’s probe revealed a disturbing truth: a clandestine vending machine peddling e-cigarettes and e-liquids, allegedly accessible to scores of unsuspecting minors. No discernible owner was found. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-14 - 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 - Thursday 14 March 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322307-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-thursday-14-march-2024/

Bangkok’s local authority the BMA will have to pay a debt of more than 23 billion baht to the sky train operator the ‘BTS company’ this follows a publication of a statement in the Royal gazette. The debt arose from hiring and installing machinery and electrical systems for the second extension of the Green Line, Councilors earlier approved using a financial reserve to pay the debt following a year-long delay. A Juvenile Court fined the parents of a group of teenagers 5,000 baht each, the teens were accused of killing a 47-year-old intellectually disabled woman on the 12th January. The parents said the court had fined them 10,000 baht each, reduced by half due to their confessions, This was the first time the parents of teenagers who have committed serious crimes have received legal punishment. Bangkok's local authority the BMA is considering the idea of a new law to offer compensation to owners of land needed for improving public infrastructure. This would include widening pavements and adding ramps for wheelchairs, the current law does not currently include offering compensation, many land owners have agreed to the local authority proposals. And Prime minister Sretha Thavasin features on the cover of this month's TIME Magazine. With the headline Salesman! Thailand is open for business, in a country that feels short changed by his election. Around the region Hong Kong A larger of power utility plans to increase its imports of nuclear power from mainland China as the electricity supplier seeks to achieve its greenhouse gas emissions goal for 2030 by increasing the share of clean energy in its product mix, The idea is to meet science-based targets to align with the Paris Agreement goal of limiting global warming to below 2 degrees C above pre-industrial levels, WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: sunny, 37C Bangkok: Sunny partly cloudy, 36C Pattaya: bright, cloudy 32C Phuket and the south: Sunny, partly cloudy 33C Hua Hin: Sunny, light cloud, winds light from the South East 35C AQI Yellow moderate, Orange High, 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 2024-03-14 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

US plans to reinstate GSP scheme for Thailand, enhancing trade relations by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post The United States has signalled its intent to reinstate the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) scheme for Thailand, as disclosed by Thailand’s Commerce Minister, Phumtham Wechayachai. This development comes after the scheme expired in 2020. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322306-us-plans-to-reinstate-gsp-scheme-for-thailand-enhancing-trade-relations/

The United States has signalled its intent to reinstate the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) scheme for Thailand, as disclosed by Thailand’s Commerce Minister, Phumtham Wechayachai. This development comes after the scheme expired in 2020. Phumtham’s statement emerged following a strategic dialogue with US Secretary of Commerce, Gina Raimondo, and a representative from the President’s Export Council. The dialogue served as a platform to reinforce the trade relations between the two nations. The conversation extended to cover the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) negotiations, focusing on the optimisation of the pact’s potential to benefit the US, Thailand, and other IPEF member nations through long-term economic collaboration under its supply chain agreement. Thailand appealed to the US to fast-track the renewal of the GSP scheme that expired in 2020, to safeguard the advantages for Thai exporters and US importers. Raimondo expressed her trust in the Thai government and reassured them of the swift renewal of GSP benefits. Additionally, Thailand has requested the US to consider its removal from the watch list for intellectual property (IP) enforcement. Phumtham stated that Thailand has made strides in enhancing IP protection and enforcement, implementing measures to apprehend counterfeit and pirated merchandise, both offline and online, and improving cooperative measures among governmental organisations. The US has recognised these positive steps, according to Phumtham. Trade relations “This is the first time the two sides have met after a hiatus of more than four years caused by the pandemic,” he said. The meeting reaffirms the significance of the Thailand-US alliance and strategic partnership. Phumtham further added that the commerce ministries of both nations, along with the President’s Export Council, are prepared to collaborate on bolstering economic relations and promoting bilateral trade and investment. He highlighted how this meeting allowed Thailand to showcase its economic and trade policies, including initiatives to alleviate expenses and boost income for farmers, producers, and consumers. Both parties underscored the significance of supply chain development. Thailand is prepared to collaborate with the US by becoming a production base for advanced US industries such as digital, artificial intelligence, electronics, semiconductors, electric vehicles, clean energy, aviation, and pharmaceuticals, Phumtham explained, reported Bangkok Post. In 2023, the US was Thailand’s second-largest trade partner after China, with a trade value amounting to US$68.3 billion. The US remains Thailand’s top export market, with a value of US$48.9 billion. The key exports include computers and computer parts, rubber products, telephone and telephone parts, semiconductors, transistors and diodes, and electric transformers and components. Meanwhile, the US is Thailand’s third-largest import market, with an import value of US$19.5 billion. The main imports include crude oil, machinery and components, electrical circuits, airplanes, gliders, aviation equipment, and components. by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-14 - 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

Japan’s visa-free privileges for Thais safe despite overstay concerns by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Monica Silva, Unsplash Fears of a potential withdrawal of Japan’s visa-free privileges due to an increased number of Thais overstaying their visas have been dismissed by travel operators. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322305-japan’s-visa-free-privileges-for-thais-safe-despite-overstay-concerns/

Fears of a potential withdrawal of Japan’s visa-free privileges due to an increased number of Thais overstaying their visas have been dismissed by travel operators. The Department of Consular Affairs brought attention to this issue last December, revealing an increase in the number of Thais overstaying from 8,688 in 2021 to 11,472 in 2023. Reports suggest that the Japanese government has urged Thailand to promptly tackle this problem, warning that the visa-free policy could be at risk by 2025 if left unaddressed. Despite this, Chotechuang Soorangura, the vice-president of the Thai Travel Agents Association, has assured Thai travellers that the number of over-stayers, when compared to the 995,500 outbound tourists from Thailand in 2023, is relatively small, accounting for less than 2% of the market. Chotechuang further added that if Japan does decide to reintroduce visa requirements, it would likely only be implemented post-Expo 2025, hosted by Osaka from April to October. This aligns with Tokyo’s commitment to accommodate the influx of tourists for the six-month event. Interestingly, Chotechuang explained that the issue of illegal workers is less pertinent in Japan than in South Korea due to the weak yen. The relatively lower salary when converted from yen to baht has resulted in a decreased demand for illegal workers from Japanese employers. Further, he suggested that Thai visitors need not worry about stricter immigration screening processes at Japanese airports as the country continues to rely heavily on tourism for economic growth. He asserted that Thai tourists, compared to other nationalities, usually abide by Japanese customs and cause fewer concerns. However, Chotechuang also cautioned that due to the ongoing issue of over tourism in Japan, more attractions may begin imposing levies or even bans to manage visitor numbers. This follows the introduction of a US$13 fee and a daily visitor quota at Mount Fuji, and a proposed new levy on foreign travellers in Osaka. Notably, Kyoto’s famous district, Gion, is set to ban foreign tourists from private streets from April due to locals’ unease over the surging visitor numbers, reported Bangkok Post. The Japan National Tourism Organisation reported that 90,600 Thais visited Japan in January, while 74,205 Japanese travelled to Thailand in the same period. Since July 2013, Japan has waived visas for Thai visitors to boost the tourism industry following the Fukushima nuclear power plant disaster. This scheme was temporarily paused during the pandemic but was reinstated in October 2022. by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Monica Silva, Unsplash Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-14 - 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 releases statement on crackdowns on foreign offenders On March 13th, 2024, at Phuket Immigration Office, Police Lieutenant General Sakorn Siya Phuekam, Chief of Thai Immigration Bureau, alongside Police Colonel Manat Sriwongsat, Deputy Chief of Staff, convened to discuss and announce enforcement measures and crackdowns on foreign nationals who violate the law, leading to visa revocations and related actions. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322302-immigration-releases-statement-on-crackdowns-on-foreign-offenders/

On March 13th, 2024, at Phuket Immigration Office, Police Lieutenant General Sakorn Siya Phuekam, Chief of Thai Immigration Bureau, alongside Police Colonel Manat Sriwongsat, Deputy Chief of Staff, convened to discuss and announce enforcement measures and crackdowns on foreign nationals who violate the law, leading to visa revocations and related actions. Picture: Siam Rath Among the attendees were Police Colonel Phopan Chakkaphak along with officers from various relevant units. Lt. Gen. Sakorn Siya Phuekam emphasized the adherence to the Prime Minister's policy and Police General Tosak Sukkawimol, the Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police, in maintaining security and handling foreign offenders. Picture: Siam Rath During this session, they met with Li Chenglong, Consul and Head of the Chinese Consulate-General in Phuket Province, to discuss cooperation in enhancing security measures and collaborating with foreign consuls stationed in Phuket, such as Li Chenglong, Consul and Head of the Chinese Consulate-General, and local agencies. Picture: Siam Rath They also conducted security inspections in the Old Town area of Phuket, distributing informational materials and promoting the Tourist Police hotline at 1155, which offers translation services 24/7. Picture: Siam Rath TOP Picture: Siam Rath -- ASEAN NOW 2024-03-14 - 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 [email protected] for more information Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Early Morning Attack Leaves Man Critically Injured in Pattaya By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya — A violent incident involving a knife attack left a man critically injured in Pattaya. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322299-early-morning-attack-leaves-man-critically-injured-in-pattaya/

Pattaya — A violent incident involving a knife attack left a man critically injured in Pattaya. In the early hours of March 13th, 2024, Nongprue police received a report about a knife attack, which occurred near Motorway 7 in the Nongprue sub-district, Banglamung district, Chonburi province. Police officers, highway patrol, and rescue personnel rushed to the scene under the expressway to find scattered belongings and a trail of blood on the ground. The victim, identified as 35-year-old Mr. Sathit Ngernkhunduang, was discovered unconscious with severe head and neck injuries believed to be inflicted by a knife. He received initial medical attention before being rushed to the hospital in critical condition. According to a witness, the victim was likely homeless. He was reportedly attacked by a man wielding a 1-meter-long knife. The victim ran to a 7-Eleven store to escape the perpetrator before losing consciousness at the front of the store. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAY NEWS 2024-03-14 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Russian Man Arrested For Allegedly Operating Illegal Motorbike Rental Business on Koh Pha Ngan By Goongnang Suksawat Surat Thani –A Russian man was arrested on Tuesday (March 12th) after he was allegedly found operating an online motorbike rental business on Koh Pha Ngan in Surat Thani. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322298-russian-man-arrested-for-allegedly-operating-illegal-motorbike-rental-business-on-koh-pha-n/

Surat Thani –A Russian man was arrested on Tuesday (March 12th) after he was allegedly found operating an online motorbike rental business on Koh Pha Ngan in Surat Thani. The Koh Pha Ngan District officials told the Phuket Express that at 10:00 A.M. on the day in question they arrested a 21-year-old Russian man on Koh Pha Ngan. Seized from him was a 300cc motorbike, a mobile phone, and some personal documents. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-03-14 - 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

Teenager Allegedly High On Marijuana Assaults Police After Serious Motorbike Accident in Thailand By Kittisak Phalaharn Nan—On March 13th, 2024, Nan Provincial Police received an accident report of a marijuana-intoxicated 17-year-old boy on a motorbike colliding with a 15-year-old girl on a motorbike at the Fa Mai intersection, Mueang Nan, Nan. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322297-teenager-allegedly-high-on-marijuana-assaults-police-after-serious-motorbike-accident/