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Sidecar saga: 70 year old's 600km epic journey to the seaside by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ TV5HD Online A 70 year old Thai man was so determined to enjoy the seaside for the first time in his life that he successfully rode his sidecar motorcycle over 600 kilometers from the Isaan province of Ubon Ratchathani to Koh Chang, an island in the eastern province of Trat. https://aseannow.com/topic/1322149-sidecar-saga-70-year-olds-600km-epic-journey-to-the-seaside/Full story:

A 70 year old Thai man was so determined to enjoy the seaside for the first time in his life that he successfully rode his sidecar motorcycle over 600 kilometers from the Isaan province of Ubon Ratchathani to Koh Chang, an island in the eastern province of Trat. The story of the 70 year old, Loi Tapila, came to light when a reporter in the Isaan province of Surin encountered him resting on his old sidecar motorcycle at a petrol station on March 7. The reporter spoke to Loi and discovered that he was on a journey from his home province of Ubon Ratchathani to see the sea for the first time in Koh Chang. Loi revealed that he left home on March 3 with only 200 baht in cash. Along the way, he collected plastic bottles and other recyclable trash and sold them to buy food, drinks, and petrol. He mostly slept at petrol stations because he thought they were safe and had toilets where he could shower. Loi added that he lived alone after he divorced his wife, and his children had left home to build their families. He wanted to enjoy the beach and sea at least once in his life and this motivated him to embark on this epic journey to Koh Chang in Trat. Loi told the reporter that his main concern was his aging motorcycle, which he feared could break down unpredictably. He mentioned that he had previously embarked on motorcycle trips from his home to the northern province of Chiang Rai and was hopeful for a successful journey this time. The reporter observed that Loi's motorcycle was laden with plastic bottles and recyclable items. They were collected by Loi, who intended to sell them to finance his dream trip. Attached to his motorcycle was a small sign, handwritten by Loi. It said… “I am an old man on a journey from Ubon Ratchathani to Trat. I am collecting rubbish along the way to earn money for the journey. This old man welcomes any support from you. Thank you for supporting me. Freshly grilled seafood and five-star hotels Loi's inspiring story gained traction on Thai social media, garnering support from petrol station attendants and locals throughout his journey until he reached Trat on March 8. Loi told the media that he would taste the sea water, to see whether it was salty as others had told him. Locals in Trat together with the Trat Tourism Council were looking forward to welcoming Loi. He got a free ferry trip from the province's mainland to Koh Chang. The owner of a seafood restaurant, 58 year old Pichit Wongpaikorn, offered grilled seafood to Loi for free as a welcome meal. Loi stayed on the island for three days and got free accommodation from two five-star hotels, Marina Sands Resort Koh Chang and the Aiyapura Resort. Loi enjoyed a boat trip, dancing and fire shows, and multiple Koh Chang signature dishes. The pictures and videos of Loi running and playing in the sea were shared on Thai social media , and all netizens were happy for him. Loi extended his beach adventure to another island, Koh Kood, today, March 11, before journeying back home on his trusty sidecar motorcycle. Channel 3 reported that numerous hotels and restaurants generously supported him, striving to ensure his inaugural beach excursion became the highlight of his life. It is heartening to witness Loi's dream materialize. Many elderly individuals in Thailand may harbor similar aspirations but encounter financial hurdles. ThaiRath reported that the majority of elderly Thai citizens are ill-prepared for retirement, facing low incomes and inadequate savings. Furthermore, the country provides limited welfare support for its elderly residents. Only 5% of the elderly population earn enough to save, with the majority either continuing to work post-retirement or relying on their children and younger family members for financial assistance. by Petch Petpailin Top Photo via Facebook/ TV5HD Online Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-12 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Transcending trouble: Thai transwomen tussle with tourists in Phuket Photo via Instagram/ @phuketinsta A video has gone viral in Thailand of two Thai transwomen physically assaulting some foreign men in the Patong neighbourhood of Phuket. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322147-transcending-trouble-thai-transwomen-tussle-with-tourists-in-phuket/

Photo via Instagram/ @phuketinsta A video has gone viral in Thailand of two Thai transwomen physically assaulting some foreign men in the Patong neighbourhood of Phuket. Police admitted that the transwomen may be sex workers, and the attack may have been sparked over a service fee dispute. The video fracas was shared by the Instagram account @phuketinsta last week with a caption in Russian warning viewers not to challenge Thai transwomen. “Dangerous people! They show who is boss in Phuket! Better not to joke with them. They can trample you!” The video featured a Thai transwoman in a black minidress hitting and kicking a foreign man sitting on the street. Her friend, in a brown dress, tried to stop her from attacking the man. Another foreign man on a motorcycle tried to intervene making the group of transwomen angry. About four to five Thai transwomen gang attacked the foreigner on a motorcycle until he had to ride out of the scene. A group of Thais and foreigners watched the attack. Some of the witnesses took videos of the incident, while others cheered on the ladyboys. Channel 3 sought additional details about the incident from Patong Police Station Superintendent Chalermchai Hernsawat. Chalermchai emphasised that no parties had yet lodged a complaint with the police, and officers were still unable to determine the date of the incident. Sex workers Chalermchai acknowledged that the transgenders featured in the video may be sex workers offering services in Soi Bangla. He suspected that the altercation stemmed from a dispute over service fees. Chalermchai stated that police officers were endeavouring to patrol Soi Bangla and its vicinity to apprehend transgender sex workers, though it proved to be a challenging task. Distinguishing between sex workers and non-sex workers was not straightforward. Without clear evidence, the police were unable to make arrests. Furthermore, Chalermchai noted that while some of the transwomen in the area exhibited aggressive behaviour, many of them were engaged in positive actions. For instance, one transwoman found a foreign tourist’s mobile phone and promptly alerted the police to facilitate its return to the rightful owner. Thai transwomen became the talk of social media last week after they clashed with a group of Filipina transwomen in Sukhumvit Soi 11 on March 5. The attack sparked after some Filipina ladyboys insulted and attacked Thai transwomen in the area. The attack prompted more than 2,000 Thai transwomen to gather outside a hotel where the Filipina transgenders stayed and launched a group attack. The Filipina boys later agreed to apologise to the Thai transwomen and paid a fine for the physical assault, bringing a close to the case. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Instagram/ @phuketinsta Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-12 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Chef Pam of “Potong” wins Asia’s Best Female Chef 2024 Pichaya “Pam” Soontornyanakij //Photo by bychefpam.com Thai gastronomic innovator and restaurant owner Pichaya “Pam” Soontornyanakij has been named Asia’s Best Female Chef 2024 in Asia’s 50 Best Restaurant Awards. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322146-chef-pam-of-“potong”-wins-asia’s-best-female-chef-2024/

Pichaya “Pam” Soontornyanakij //Photo by bychefpam.com Thai gastronomic innovator and restaurant owner Pichaya “Pam” Soontornyanakij has been named Asia’s Best Female Chef 2024 in Asia’s 50 Best Restaurant Awards. Pichaya said she wants her win to inspire young female chefs to break barriers. She will receive her award at the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants ceremony on March 26 in Seoul. “Chef Pam has been serving up truly innovative cuisine and her tasting menu is a masterclass in paying heed to heritage as well as cultural storytelling,” said William Drew, director of content for Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants. Chef Pam’s restaurant in Bangkok’s Chinatown is named Potong, which in Chinese means ‘simple’. It “blends tradition with avant-garde culinary techniques,” according to Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, which ranked Potong number 35 in Asia and 88th best in the world. A meal at Potong is as much about the iconic, multi-storey building and the generations who have lived there as it is about chef Pichaya’s progressive Thai-Chinese cuisine. The 120-year-old building belongs to her grandfather, who lived there until he married in the late 1950s. Full story: Thai PBS 2024-03-12 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Investigation launched into alleged land encroachment at Khao Yai National Park by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Prasit Tangpresert A probe has been set in motion regarding allegations of land encroachment at Khao Yai National Park, with a firm commitment from authorities to reclaim properties illegally built on plots meant for landless farmers and penalise all officials implicated in the scandal. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322145-investigation-launched-into-alleged-land-encroachment-at-khao-yai-national-park/

A probe has been set in motion regarding allegations of land encroachment at Khao Yai National Park, with a firm commitment from authorities to reclaim properties illegally built on plots meant for landless farmers and penalise all officials implicated in the scandal. This development follows a meeting between Thanadon Suwannarit, a consultant to the Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Thamanat Prompow, and Theppasu Bavornchotidara, the Anti-Money Laundering Office (Amlo) secretary-general. The pair discussed forming a joint committee to combat corruption within the agricultural sector. The Ministry investigation, according to Thanadon, discovered numerous farmers breaching regulations tied to the usage of Sor Por Kor land around the periphery of the park. These infringements include unlawful soil excavation for business purposes and selling these plots to parties who do not qualify to occupy them. In response, Thanadon reported that the Ministry and Amlo are strategising to seize properties involved in the illicit use or transfer of Sor Por Kor plots. He specifically mentioned two officials from the Agricultural Land Reform Office (Alro) in tambon Moosi, located in Nakhon Ratchasima’s Pak Chong district, who are believed to have partaken in the illegal allocation of Sor Por Kor plots. He revealed that arrest warrants are imminent for the two officials, with an additional seven officials slated for questioning about the case. The Ministry, he claimed, discovered three Sor Por Kor plots currently occupied by a major corporation. This discovery has prompted an ongoing investigation, with the Ministry and Amlo collaborating to trace the corporation’s financial transactions. Furthermore, Thanadon stated that five farmers, holders of the Sor Por Kor deeds, will also face questioning by the police. However, he added that no political connection has been discovered so far. Alro secretary-general Vinaroj Sapsongsuk disclosed that Amlo will create a subcommittee to collaborate with the Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission, Office of Attorney-General, Royal Thai Police, and other agencies to facilitate information exchange. Alro will also compile a list of Sor Por Kor deed recipients for public scrutiny, reported Bangkok Post. Vinaroj also stated, “We will also form a district-level sub-committee to encourage the participation of residents to ensure transparency in the inspection.” by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Prasit Tangpresert Full story: The Thaiger 2024-03-12 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai SEC approves private funds to invest in Bitcoin ETFs by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Asset management firms have been granted permission by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to initiate private funds that invest in Bitcoin Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322142-thai-sec-approves-private-funds-to-invest-in-bitcoin-etfs/

Asset management firms have been granted permission by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to initiate private funds that invest in Bitcoin Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs). However, this investment opportunity is only accessible to institutional investors and ultra-high-net-worth investors. The SEC board gave its nod to asset management firms managing private funds that invest in Bitcoin ETFs listed on US exchanges just last week. The information was confirmed by SEC Secretary-General Pornanong Budsaratragoon. The SEC Act allows securities companies to trade assets that are classified as securities. Following the approval of Bitcoin ETFs trading by the US SEC, Bitcoin ETFs now classify as securities rather than digital assets, hence Thai securities firms are now allowed to invest in them. Nonetheless, only institutional and ultra-high-net-worth investors are entitled to invest in Bitcoin ETFs. Pornanong explains that while asset management firms expressed their desire to invest in digital assets, primarily Bitcoin and Bitcoin ETFs, the SEC had to thoroughly consider whether it was judicious to allow these firms to invest directly in digital assets considering the high risk involved. Furthermore, the current rules and regulations that oversee investments of asset management firms do not encompass investments in digital asset ETFs. Therefore, the SEC had to modify these rules and regulations to permit such investments. However, these investments are strictly limited to institutional and ultra-high-net-worth investors. The SEC’s green light coincides with Bitcoin prices nearing their all-time high, making it an opportune moment for Thai investors to unlock their investments. Following a recent dip in price, Bitcoin was trading at over US$71,500 per coin on Monday afternoon. Pornanong also stated that the SEC board had given the go-ahead to measures proposed by the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) to bolster the stock market supervisory and new listing rules. These measures aim to boost investor confidence in the Thai market and foster the long-term growth of the bourse. They entail the supervision of short selling transactions, naked short, program trading, high-frequency trading, and curbing stock price fluctuations, reported Bangkok Post. by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-12 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

UPDATE: PM Given 139 Million Baht In Funding For World Tours In Fiscal 2024 By Thai Newsroom Reporters Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin held talks with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris Monday, March 11, 2024. Photo: Thai Rath THE GLOBETROTTING PRIME MINISTER Srettha Thavisin has been given a sum of 139 million baht in government funding at his disposal with which he may travel the world over for the current fiscal year, according to a government official. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322092-pm-srettha-sets-record-for-trips-overseas/?do=findComment&comment=18760101

PM Given 139 Million Baht In Funding For World Tours In Fiscal 2024 By Thai Newsroom Reporters Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin held talks with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris Monday, March 11, 2024. Photo: Thai Rath THE GLOBETROTTING PRIME MINISTER Srettha Thavisin has been given a sum of 139 million baht in government funding at his disposal with which he may travel the world over for the current fiscal year, according to a government official. The 139 million baht in funding was primarily earmarked for planned expenditure of the Pheu Thai-backed prime minister’s official trips overseas throughout fiscal 2024 for reported purposes of propagating and promoting Thailand’s potentials in international trade, investment and tourism. Of that total, an estimated 68 million baht in funding for the real estate mogul-turned-prime minister’s official world tours has been contributed by the Board of Investment, an agency attached to the Prime Minister’s Office, said the official attached to Government House who only spoke on condition of anonymity. Full story: THAI NEWSROOM 2024-03-12 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

True Corporation and AIS to review auction of key spectrum bands by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Thanarak Khunton True Corporation and Advanced Info Service (AIS), both leading mobile phone service operators, are gearing up to review a draft concerning the auction of three key spectrum bands, 850 megahertz, 2100MHz and 2300MHz. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322141-true-corporation-and-ais-to-review-auction-of-key-spectrum-bands/

True Corporation and Advanced Info Service (AIS), both leading mobile phone service operators, are gearing up to review a draft concerning the auction of three key spectrum bands, 850 megahertz, 2100MHz and 2300MHz. The draft is set to be completed by National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) by June. The impetus behind this action is to secure sufficient spectrum portfolio for enhancing customer service and to pave the way for 6G service, despite the current bandwidth being able to serve operations for another two years. The three spectrums, currently held by National Telecom (NT), will become available in September 2025 when NT’s usage rights expire. The importance of a clear auction roadmap for the three spectrum bands was emphasised by Manat Manavutiveth, True Corporation’s Chief Executive, who pointed out that it is crucial for telecom operators to create strategies to meet customer data usage demands. He further suggested that the reallocation conditions for the three spectrum bands should be finalised before NT’s usage rights terminate. Manat also highlighted the financial strain experienced by major telecom operators following the expensive auctions of 4G and 5G licences in recent years, noting that winning bids in Thailand are higher than in other countries. These high costs, combined with the obligation to expand network coverage, adds to the strain. He added that the upcoming auction should not put excessive burden on operators, given the importance of mobile phone services in daily life. AIS Chief Executive, Somchai Lertsutiwong, stated that telecom operators must seize all opportunities to provide competitive, high-quality services. Regarding the planned auction, Somchai noted that AIS’s decision to participate would be influenced by three factors: the cost of acquiring usage rights, the company’s commitment to improving operations, and a competitive strategy to maintain AIS’s market-leading position. Somchai confirmed that AIS’s current bandwidth would suffice for at least two more years. However, he stressed the importance of closely following NBTC’s auction or reallocation plans, as spectrum is essential for providing innovative services to customers. Focus on the 3500MHz band NBTC Commissioner, Somphop Purivigraipong, who is responsible for telecom affairs, revealed that a subcommittee is currently drafting a spectrum management roadmap to address the three spectrum ranges and the 3500MHz band, expected to be released by June. Meanwhile, NT has been asked to provide an operational plan following the expiration of their usage rights for the three bands. Somphop agreed that the upcoming auction should not impose an undue financial burden on bidders, to prevent costs being passed on to consumers. He revealed that the NBTC office plans to hold two separate focus group discussions after the draft is completed, with the aim of completing the auction or reallocation process before September 2025. He personally believes that the 3500MHz band holds greater appeal for operators due to its market demand and potential usage in promoting private 5G networks for vertical industries, reported Bangkok Post. by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Thanarak Khunton Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-12 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Tuesday 12 March 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322140-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-tuesday-12-march-2024/

Anti narcotics officers seized 11 million methamphetamine pills and over 140 kilograms of crystal meth, during a three day operation along in Mae hong son’s border with Myanmar. The drugs were due to be taken to Australia and then on to the United states. And a special unit of 14 officers has been set up to investigate and arrest government officials who may be involved with drugs in border areas. In an ongoing story…an investigation has been launched into land encroachment in Kho Yai National Park. Properties built on land designated for agricultural purposes would be seized and officials punished. Some land around the park had been excavated then sold to buyers who then unlawfully built property, two plots had been bought by major corporations. At least two officials were due to be questioned. Prime Minister Thavisin defended the 138-million-baht budget for improvement work around Government House, saying the money would be spent on renovating several facilities,not just the lawn. The budget had been criticized by a leading activist who said the amount was too high, He called on Mr Srettha to review the budget, in line with the pledge he made to cut down on unnecessary government expenses. The civil aviation authority says 104 flights will be offered by 6 airlines and offer a 20 percent discount on early morning and late night domestic flights during the Songkran holiday from the 11th to the 16th of April. The airlines include: Air Asia, Thai airways, bangkok airways, Nok Air, Lion air and Viet jet. Around the region Singapore: A 29-year-old woman has been arrested for scams concerning the sale of Taylor Swift concert tickets online. Police received several reports from victims who were cheated by an online seller. Officers traced and arrested the woman yesterday, she will be charged today with the offence of cheating, And could face up to 10 years' jail and a fine if found guilty. WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: sunny, 38C Bangkok: sunny, partly cloudy 35C Pattaya: Sunny, partly cloudy 33C Phuket and the south: Sunny, becoming cloudy 33C Hua Hin: Sunny with light cloud, winds light from the South 34C AQI Orange and Red High, to unhealthy 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 2024-03-12 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand must prepare for a possible influx of Myanmar’s young people by Kavi Chongkittavorn People gather outside the embassy of Thailand to get visas in Yangon on February 16 after Myanmar’s military government said it would impose military service.//AFP The State Administration Council’s (SAC) plans to draft more soldiers to fight the resistance forces poses serious challenges for Thailand’s volatile and porous border. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322139-thailand-must-prepare-for-a-possible-influx-of-myanmar’s-young-people/

People gather outside the embassy of Thailand to get visas in Yangon on February 16 after Myanmar’s military government said it would impose military service.//AFP The State Administration Council’s (SAC) plans to draft more soldiers to fight the resistance forces poses serious challenges for Thailand’s volatile and porous border. Myanmar’s People Military Service Law, enacted in 2010 but activated on February 13, obligates men and women, aged 18 to 45 and 18 to 35 respectively, to be drafted into the military for two years of compulsory service. Furthermore, Individuals with specialized knowledge such as doctors and engineers must serve three years. In the case of a national emergency, the time to be served could be extended to five years. The new draft shows the military regime is desperate to add more fighters as they have suffered great losses over the past five months of intense fighting between the Tatmadaw and alliances of ethnic armed groups and other resistance forces. Right after the announcement, a long queue formed at the Thai Embassy in Yangon as young men and women applied for visas to Thailand. Both daily quotas via the offline and online visa applications are still being quickly filled. Myanmar passport holders can enter Thailand with a visa waiver via international check-in counters for two weeks. by Kavi Chongkittavorn Full story: Thai PBS 2024-03-12 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Muslims to Begin Ramadan By Aim Tanakorn Thai Muslims will begin observing Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, on Tuesday, March 12th, 2024 as announced by the Office of Chularajmontri. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322138-thai-muslims-to-begin-ramadan/

Thai Muslims will begin observing Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, on Tuesday, March 12th, 2024 as announced by the Office of Chularajmontri. Ramadan, the ninth month in the Islamic calendar, is observed by Muslims worldwide. It is a time for spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and fasting from dawn to dusk. During this holy month, Muslims focus on prayer, charity, and abstaining from worldly pleasures to strengthen their connection with God. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-03-12 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Songkran Celebration: Health Ministry Sets Alcohol Sales Guidelines Picture: Siam Rath Today, at the Ministry of Public Health in Nonthaburi, Minister Cholnan Srikaew chaired a meeting of the Alcohol Control Committee, approving guidelines for alcohol control during the 2024 Songkran Festival. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322132-songkran-celebration-health-ministry-sets-alcohol-sales-guidelines/

Today, at the Ministry of Public Health in Nonthaburi, Minister Cholnan Srikaew chaired a meeting of the Alcohol Control Committee, approving guidelines for alcohol control during the 2024 Songkran Festival. Spanning 21 days, the festival aims to boost the economy and ensure safety by creating alcohol-free water play zones and enforcing strict laws, reported Siam Rath. The initiative addresses the main cause of road accidents during Songkran: drunk driving. Last year, Songkran saw 4,340 injuries and fatalities, with over 502 involving youths under 20. The government's "World Songkran Festival" from April 1st to 21st is divided into three phases: preparation, festival days, and post-festival. Measures include safe water play areas and strict enforcement of alcohol laws. Authorities will enforce the laws against selling alcohol to minors, including limiting promotions during specific times. Law enforcement will also administer breathalyzer tests to all drivers involved in accidents, with a strict policy against drunk driving. Additionally, the committee endorsed regulations for alcohol policy and control committees, ensuring thorough measures to address alcohol-related concerns. While no specific timeframe was set, the committee aims for swift action, prioritizing community safety and public health. Picture: Siam Rath -- ASEAN NOW 2024-03-12 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans 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

Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi soars to seventh heaven in luxury airport rankings by Petch Petpailin Photo by Joy Presbitero via Unsplash Travel magazine and website Travel + Leisure ranked Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Bangkok as the seventh place most luxurious airport in the world. It was also rated second in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322128-bangkok’s-suvarnabhumi-soars-to-seventh-heaven-in-luxury-airport-rankings/

Travel magazine and website Travel + Leisure ranked Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Bangkok as the seventh place most luxurious airport in the world. It was also rated second in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Financial information and research website Business Financing recently launched the best and worst airports in the world ranking in February this year. In the ranking, two Bangkok airports, Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang, were ranked among the worst in the world according to the opinions of business travellers from around the world. The unexpected ranking prompted Prime Minister’s Office spokesperson Chai Watcharong to warn Thais not to devalue the country’s main aviation hubs, saying the assessment may not be comprehensive. The spokesperson’s statement may be reasonable as Suvarnabhumi Airport managed to restore the reputation of Thailand by being ranked as one of the top ten luxury airports in the world this month. The Travel + Leisure publication revealed the names of the airports that offer passengers the most luxurious experience, based on a study by AllClear Travel Insurance, which looked at 1,800 airports around the world. The study focused on the number of lounges in the passenger terminal, designer brand shops, luxury hotels in the area and the availability of champagne and caviar before boarding. Based on these criteria, Thailand’s Suvarnabhumi Airport was ranked seventh in the world with a score of 55 out of 100. The airport lost the most points for the availability of champagne and caviar before boarding and the number of luxury hotels close to the airport. The winner was Dubai International Airport, and the full ranking of the top ten most luxurious airports is below: Dubai International Airport London Heathrow Airport Hamad International Airport Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport Sydney International Airport Singapore Changi Airport Suvarnabhumi International Airport Hong Kong International Airport Frankfurt Airport Narita International Airport As well as being in the top ten, Suvarnabhumi Airport also won second place for the most luxurious airport in ASEAN. The regional winner was Singapore Changi Airport. by Petch Petpailin Photo by Joy Presbitero via Unsplash Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-12 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

The arrest of Norwegian woman part of bigger picture by Lærke Kobberup It was announced on 8 March 2024 that the Norwegian woman Ms. Unni had been arrested for operating as a taxi driver in Koh Phangan. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322127-the-arrest-of-norwegian-woman-part-of-bigger-picture/