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Thailand’s revamped tax system promises economic boost by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post In a bid to shield the public from economic turmoil, Thailand’s Finance and Interior Ministries have unleashed a slew of reforms, spearheaded by Paopoom Rojanasakul, secretary to the finance minister. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321799-thailand’s-revamped-tax-system-promises-economic-boost/

In a bid to shield the public from economic turmoil, Thailand’s Finance and Interior Ministries have unleashed a slew of reforms, spearheaded by Paopoom Rojanasakul, secretary to the finance minister. Addressing a high-profile property seminar, Paopoom asserted that the proposed alterations to the land and building tax are geared towards bolstering collection efficiency and ensuring a fair tax rate. “We cannot burden the people further amidst fragile economic conditions.” Paopoom urged the Bank of Thailand to relax loan-to-value (LTV) regulations, stressing the potential to invigorate the real estate sector and fuel economic growth. “This isn’t about encouraging debt; it’s about jumpstarting the economy.” Moreover, he called upon financial institutions to loosen credit conditions, striking a balance between risk and stability. The Finance Ministry, he assured, recognises the pivotal role of the real estate market and has devised stimulus packages, encompassing tax and financial policies. Among the measures, tax deductions on personal income for property-related loans and a substantial reduction in land and building tax for developers aim to alleviate financial burdens. The government has also extended tax collection periods and slashed transfer and mortgage fees to revitalise the housing market. Additionally, initiatives like the One Million Homes Project and the Happy Life Credit Project aim to make homeownership more accessible, with flexible loans and competitive interest rates, reported Bangkok Post. In a glimmer of hope for Thailand’s economy, Youthapoom Charusreni, director of the Fiscal Policy Office, indicated a diminished risk of recession. Despite global tensions, including the Russia-Ukraine conflict and concerns over China’s economic slowdown, prospects remain positive, he affirmed. In related news, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin of Thailand is set to travel to Germany and France in an official capacity. The visit, scheduled for March 7 to March 14, aims to bolster trade and investment between Thailand and these European nations. Accelerating the completion of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and advocating for visa exemptions for Thai passport holders are top priorities. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Full story: The Thaiger 2024-03-07 - 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

Bangkok Hospital to purge decade-old medical records File photo Bangkok Hospital Headquarters has announced a major purge of medical records for patients who haven't contacted them in over ten years. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321798-bangkok-hospital-to-purge-decade-old-medical-records/

File photo Bangkok Hospital Headquarters has announced a major purge of medical records for patients who haven't contacted them in over ten years. Those needing copies of their records must act fast and reach out to the Medical Documentation Services Department to avoid losing vital health information. This sudden move has left former patients scrambling to secure their records before they're destroyed, highlighting the importance of maintaining up-to-date medical histories. -- ASEAN NOW 2024-03-07 - 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

Drug mule busted with 30 kg of cannabis at Manchester Airport by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Manchester Evening News Manchester Crown Court witnessed a case where a 27 year old man was exposed as a drug mule caught with a staggering 30 kilogrammes of cannabis at Manchester Airport. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321797-drug-mule-busted-with-30-kg-of-cannabis-at-manchester-airport/

Manchester Crown Court witnessed a case where a 27 year old man was exposed as a drug mule caught with a staggering 30 kilogrammes of cannabis at Manchester Airport. Mohammad Arif’s involvement in the smuggling saga began when a dispute emerged following a charity boxing event. In a bid to settle the feud, Arif embarked on a trip to Thailand in December last year. Little did he know, he would return with a suitcase packed not with souvenirs but with illegal cargo. Customs officials intercepted Arif upon his return to Manchester, detaining him after discovering the hefty consignment of class B drugs in his possession. Despite being paid 2,000 British pounds (approximately 90,000 baht) for his role and having his expenses covered, the drug mule refused to reveal the identities of his accomplices. Judge John Potter remarked that Arif’s financial gain from the crime was meagre. Arif had claimed he was handed the suitcase by others while in Thailand. Despite admitting to his involvement, the drug mule remained tight-lipped about further details. Defending Arif, Hugh Barton disclosed that a charity boxing match had spiralled into online disputes, leading to Arif’s coerced involvement in the drug smuggling operation. Barton highlighted a disturbing incident where Arif was bullied and beaten in prison, captured on video and circulated online, reported Manchester Evening News. Arif, residing on Waterloo Road, Cheetham Hill, pleaded guilty to fraudulently evading the prohibition on importing a Class B drug. He was sentenced to 14 months in prison, with half of the term to be served behind bars. In related news, Airport Interdiction Task Force (AITF) officers at Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Bangkok arrested a Chinese man who attempted to smuggle 3,000 grammes of heroin into Australia. The drugs were concealed in books and powder bottles. The Thai Narcotics Control Board Office (ONCB), stationed in China, reported the drug trafficking plan involving a suspicious Chinese man to the AITF. Further investigation revealed that the man intended to smuggle drugs from Thailand to Melbourne City in Australia via Suvarnabhumi Airport on Monday, February 26. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Manchester Evening News Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-07 - 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: Swiss man’s visa revoked after physical assault on Thai doctor by Petch Petpailin Photo via ThaiRath The Immigration Bureau revoked the visa of the Swiss man involved in the physical assault on a female Thai doctor near Yamu Cape in Phuket last week. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321554-update-swiss-man’s-visa-revoked/?do=findComment&comment=18747788

Swiss man’s visa revoked after physical assault on Thai doctor by Petch Petpailin Photo via ThaiRath The Immigration Bureau revoked the visa of the Swiss man involved in the physical assault on a female Thai doctor near Yamu Cape in Phuket last week. The Thai doctor, 26 year old Tarndao Chandam, filed a complaint against Urs Fehr after the Swiss man attacked her on Saturday, February 24 when she and her friend sat on the steps outside his luxury villa near Yamu Cape in Phuket. Tarndao added that Fehr and his Thai wife had also insulted her and threatened to use their police connections to put her in jail as well. Fehr initially denied attacking the doctor, saying he tripped on the stairs and accidentally kicked her in the back. The video of the incident, which Fehr recorded by himself, proved that his claim was not reliable. Under public pressure, Fehr and his Thai wife came forward to apologise to the doctor at a press conference, saying they did not mean to hurt or offend anyone. They said they were just worried about intruders as a Chinese woman recently entered their villa premises without permission a few days before the incident. Despite their apologies, Tarndao insisted on pursuing legal action against Fehr for physically assaulting her. Aside from the assault case, public attention also focused on Fehr’s wealth and business in Phuket, the Green Elephant Sanctuary Park, prompting authorities to investigate whether the sanctuary was operating legally. Police also extended their investigation into property held by Fehr and his wife together with the latter’s possession of firearms. This incident also sparked the investigation into the illegal foreigners and their business in the whole province as well. Visa revoked Thai people, especially locals in Phuket, demanded that Fehr and his family members leave Thailand and urged the authorities to revoke his visa, saying the Swiss man disrespected the country and its people even though he lived and ran a business here. The Deputy Governor of Phuket, Adun Chuthong, submitted a document to request the revocation of Fehr’s visa to the Phuket Provincial Immigration Office on March 5, and the provincial immigration office approved the revocation last night, March 6. Immigration Bureau spokesperson Parinya Klinkaysorn reported that Commander Songpord Sirisuka viewed Fehr’s behaviour as a threat to society, capable of causing danger and disrupting the peace and order of society. The spokesperson added that Fehr would be detained at the Phuket Provincial Immigration Office for the physical assault charge but he could apply for bail to fight the case until it is finalised. ThaiRath reported that the Phuket deputy governor also called for the Swiss man to be blacklisted and permanently banned from entering Thailand if he is found to be involved in any further illegal activities. Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-07 - 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

Purge on foreign 'owned' businesses, ‘Swissgate’ update - Tim Newton Today - March 7 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321794-purge-on-foreign-owned-businesses-‘swissgate’-update-tim-newton-today-march-7/

Thailand new - Follow up on the fallout of the transgender melee that broke out on Monday evening on Sukhumvit Soi 11, the Swiss man who attacked the Tai woman in a Trang shopping centre, and some of the fallout on foreigners and their involvement in nominee companies in Thailand, as well as encroachment on public land. Former PM Thaksin Shinawatra wants to visit Chiang Mai, whilst the current Thai PM is heading to German and France, courting business and attending the big travel show. ITB Berlin. Tim Newton Today is a daily take on Thai and regional news and issues of interest to expats and foreign tourists.

Thai opposition parties call for debate over govt’s slow policy fulfilment by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of พรรคก้าวไกล - Move Forward Party (Facebook) The six opposition parties in Thailand have decided to demand a general debate, alleging that the government has been slow to fulfil its core policies declared when it assumed office six months ago. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321793-thai-opposition-parties-call-for-debate-over-govt’s-slow-policy-fulfilment/

The six opposition parties in Thailand have decided to demand a general debate, alleging that the government has been slow to fulfil its core policies declared when it assumed office six months ago. The decision, reached in a meeting yesterday, involves the Move Forward Party (MFP), Democrat Party, Thai Sang Thai Party (TSTP), Fair Party, Thai Teachers for People Party and the New Party. A general debate, as opposed to a no-confidence debate, does not necessitate a censure vote against targeted Cabinet ministers, under Section 152 of the constitution. The opposition plans to submit a motion for the debate on March 13, which is anticipated to last two days, possibly between April 3 and 5. This is an ideal timeframe as the second and third readings of the 2024 fiscal budget bill are expected from March 27-28, and the current parliamentary session ends on April 9, according to MFP leader and opposition head, Chaithawat Tulathon. Chaithawat stated that the government has been in office for half a year but has not yet started to fulfil its promises to voters, accusing it of neglecting its responsibilities to implement policies declared in parliament. The government’s handling of justice affairs will be a key focus of the Democrat Party in the forthcoming debate. Chaichana Detdacho, a Democrat MP for Nakhon Si Thammarat and deputy party leader, cited issues surrounding the Ministry of Justice’s management of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s hospital detention and his subsequent parole. Kritdithat Saengthanayothin, a list-MP and leader of the New Party, expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s lack of progress on its policy commitments. He intends to highlight the government’s failure to address the loan shark issue, which it had pledged to eradicate under its public debt alleviation policy, in the upcoming debate. Although the government’s primary issue is its slow policy implementation, which may not require concrete evidence as corruption allegations would, the opposition’s general debate will still present tangible evidence, Chaithawat assured, reported Bangkok Post. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of พรรคก้าวไกล - Move Forward Party (Facebook) Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-07 - 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: Drug dealing British backpacker celebrated wedding days before arrest by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Viral Press via Daily Mail Andrew Brett, the British backpacker arrested for drug dealing in Koh Tao was reported to have just celebrated his wedding to a Thai-born wife just days before he was apprehended. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321469-british-man-arrested-for-allegedly-selling-lsd-and-ecstasy-on-turtle-island-in-surat-thani/?do=findComment&comment=18747734

Drug dealing British backpacker celebrated wedding days before arrest by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Viral Press via Daily Mail Andrew Brett, the British backpacker arrested for drug dealing in Koh Tao was reported to have just celebrated his wedding to a Thai-born wife just days before he was apprehended. The British man’s distraught parents, John and Ann, expressed profound disbelief as news of their son’s arrest shattered the blissful memories of the recently concluded nuptials. “We haven’t been told anything… Everything seemed perfect. It just doesn’t make sense.” Hailing from Worcester Park, Surrey, Brett had been residing on Koh Tao, where he aspired to carve out a new life with his family and stake a claim in the local hospitality scene. However, his aspirations took a stark turn as he faced allegations of peddling narcotics to tourists at a popular island bar. Amidst the anguish, Brett’s social media presence remains active, yet devoid of any mention of his predicament, leaving loved ones grappling with uncertainty regarding his fate. The absence of official communication from authorities only compounds the family’s distress, as they navigate a legal system known for its severity, reported UK Daily Mail. As the Brett family awaits clarity on Andrew’s situation, the Foreign Office has been approached for insight into the ongoing ordeal. ORIGINAL STORY: Thai cop spills beans on bid to hush British backpacker’s drugs dealing bust (video) An unnamed Thai police officer revealed that his superiors attempted to suppress a story about the arrest of a British backpacker for selling Category 1 drugs on a notorious island in Thailand. Andrew Brett was arrested on Thursday, February 29, for allegedly selling ecstasy and LSD to other foreign tourists at the Ecco Bar on Koh Tao island in the southern province of Surat Thani. The Thai officer, who wished to remain anonymous, informed a reporter that the police had been monitoring the drug dealer for several months before they swooped to nab him. The Thai cop made known they wanted to conceal the crime because the drug dealing took place on the notorious Koh Tao island, widely known as Death Island. Following a tip-off from a concerned patron, police initiated an investigation into allegations that the British man was distributing drugs at the bar. After monitoring his activities for five months, officers finally apprehended him on his way to the establishment on February 29. Among his belongings, officers allegedly discovered 0.54 grammes of ecstasy in a plastic bag, along with 25 ecstasy pills and 75 LSD sheets, locally known as magic paper. According to police reports, Brett would leave his apartment daily at 8pm to sell drugs to customers at the Ecco Bar, a short distance from Sairee Beach where British backpackers Hannah Witheridge and David Miller were tragically killed in 2014. The police officer revealed that the case had been kept confidential for several months. Subsequently, they stated that orders had been given to “suppress the case”’to safeguard the island’s notorious mafia-like reputation. “The suspect admitted that all the narcotics found belonged to him. He said he sold ecstasy pills to tourists for 1,000 baht each, while the LSD paper was sold at 100 baht each.” Brett has been charged with possession of Category I narcotics for distribution and now faces a potential punishment of up to life imprisonment or even the death penalty, depending on the severity of the case. Koh Tao earned the nickname Death Island following the tragic murders of British backpackers Witheridge and Miller in 2014. Subsequent incidents of tourist deaths have raised concerns, with several cases remaining unexplained. Authors, documentary makers, and researchers have attributed these incidents to corrupt Thai police and a powerful group of local families controlling the island, accused of covering up the murders, reported The Daily Mail. Witheridge and Miller lost their lives on Koh Tao on September 15, 2014. They are believed to have been fatally attacked by the son of a prominent local family on the supposedly idyllic island, after which corrupt Thai police allegedly framed two innocent Burmese workers, Zaw Lin and Wai Phyo. Following these events, numerous other unexplained tourist deaths on the island have come to light, leading to the chilling moniker Death Island. Local police have endeavoured to suppress any negative incidents emerging from the picturesque island, while a select few local families, who have resided there for decades, profit financially from its appeal to backpackers and scuba divers worldwide. Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-07 - 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

Illegal migrant labour and sex work challenge Thailand’s tourism Photo of Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Lin Kiu, Unsplash Migrant workers, who have illegally entered Thailand by taking advantage of visa-free privileges, continue to pose a challenge in the country’s tourism sector, particularly within the sex industry. This issue has led to calls from operators for the government to legalise sex work. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321791-illegal-migrant-labour-and-sex-work-challenge-thailand’s-tourism/

Migrant workers, who have illegally entered Thailand by taking advantage of visa-free privileges, continue to pose a challenge in the country’s tourism sector, particularly within the sex industry. This issue has led to calls from operators for the government to legalise sex work. A recent confrontation between Filipino transgender women and their Thai counterparts in Soi Sukhumvit 11, Bangkok, has brought this issue to light, with accusations of the Filipino trans women offering sexual services. Thanet Supornsahasrungsi, the president of the Association of Chon Buri Tourism Federation, acknowledged the persistent problem of foreigners illegally working in the service industry in Pattaya and across Thailand. He noted that these issues often go unnoticed unless crimes or disputes involving these individuals are reported. Thanet highlighted that Pattaya is a hotspot for illegal foreign labour, housing unskilled workers from Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar, India, and the Philippines. Many of these workers, he noted, have a better command of the English language than the local Thai workers. Thanet believes that the majority of operators would prefer to legally employ local workers and foreign workers with work permits if the process were simpler, to avoid potential penalties. However, the current immigration process is complicated and inconvenient, causing some operators to resort to illegal recruitment. “With our tourism industry suffering a severe domestic labour shortage following the pandemic, the government should relax regulations regarding the employment of foreign workers. We still need them to sustain our industry.” Illegal labour Thanet also noted that present regulations require operators to pay some nationalities, such as Filipinos, a wage that is two to three times higher than the local market rate. This rule, intended to ensure job availability for locals, should be revised, considering the ongoing labour shortage, to allow for the legal employment of foreign workers. Additionally, given the active sex work industry in Pattaya, which employs both locals and foreigners, Thanet suggests the government should legalise sex work. Like in certain European countries, this would bring the industry out of the shadows, allowing sex workers to have the same labour rights as other professions and enabling the government to collect tax. Damrongkieat Pinijkarn, secretary of the Pattaya Entertainment Association, stated that nightlife and entertainment venues in the city conduct thorough checks on their staff’s age and work permit status before hiring. He also noted that authorities frequently inspect these venues to deter the employment of underage and illegal migrant workers. Pinijkarn added that Pattaya’s reputation has evolved, with the city now offering a wider range of products targeting families, sports, and other recreational activities, shifting away from its previous image of being primarily focused on nightlife and sex tourism. Photo of Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Lin Kiu, Unsplash Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-07 - 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 braces for intense heatwave and summer storms by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of Freepik The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued a warning for sweltering to intense heat this weekend across upper Thailand, with the risk of summer storms causing heavy rainfall, potential hail, and strong winds. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321789-thailand-braces-for-intense-heatwave-and-summer-storms/

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued a warning for sweltering to intense heat this weekend across upper Thailand, with the risk of summer storms causing heavy rainfall, potential hail, and strong winds. Bangkok is among the areas to be affected. The forecast for the coming week, from March 5 to March 11, indicates that a low-pressure system caused by intense heat will cover upper Thailand. This weather pattern is expected to result in extremely hot conditions with isolated thunderstorms during the day. Southerly and southeasterly winds will bring rain and thunderstorms to the lower northeastern, lower central, and eastern regions. Although the southerly and southeasterly winds over the Gulf of Thailand, the southern region, and the Andaman Sea are weak, they will still cause some rain and thunderstorms in the south, accompanied by hot weather during the day. From March 8 to March 11, a high-pressure system or cool air mass from China will extend over the lower northeastern part and the South China Sea. Combined with southerly and southeasterly winds, it will cover the lower northern region, the lower northeastern region, the central region, including Bangkok and its vicinity, and the eastern region. While upper Thailand will experience very hot weather in many areas, summer storms are likely to occur with the characteristics of thunderstorms, strong winds, and possible hail in some areas, including the chance of lightning strikes. The southeasterly and easterly winds, which are weak over the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea, will strengthen, leading to increased rain in the south. In the lower Gulf of Thailand, sea waves are expected to reach heights of 1 to 2 metres, and more than 2 metres in thunderstorm areas. The upper Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea will see waves of about 1 metre high, increasing to more than 1 metre during thunderstorms. Residents in upper Thailand are advised to take care of their health due to the extreme heat from March 5 to March 8. From March 8 to March 11, they are also warned to be cautious of dangers posed by thunderstorms, strong winds, and possible hail, as well as lightning strikes. People should avoid open areas, large trees, weak structures, and billboards. Farmers are advised to prepare for potential damage to agricultural products and livestock during these periods. Temperature rises The weather forecast for the northern region is hot to very hot with isolated thunderstorms from March 5 to March 8. Minimum temperatures of 15 to 25 degrees Celsius and maximums of 35 to 40 degrees Celsius are expected. Southeasterly winds will blow at 5 to 15 kilometres per hour. From March 9 to March 11, there is a 10 to 20% chance of thunderstorms, mainly in the lower parts, with strong winds and possible hail. Minimum temperatures will range from 18 to 26 degrees Celsius, and maximums from 34 to 38 degrees Celsius, with southerly winds at 10 to 15 kilometres per hour. In the northeastern region, similar conditions are expected with southeasterly winds. Central region and Bangkok will endure hot weather with a 10% chance of thunderstorms on March 5. Minimum temperatures of 24 to 27 degrees Celsius and maximums of 35 to 40 degrees Celsius are expected, with southerly winds at 10 to 15 kilometres per hour. From March 8 to March 11, thunderstorms are more likely, accompanied by strong winds and possible hail. in the eastern and southern regions (both east and west coasts), hot weather with varying chances of thunderstorms and strong winds is predicted, with wave heights around 1 metre, increasing in thunderstorm areas, reported KhaoSod. The public is advised to stay informed and prepared for the upcoming hot weather and summer storms, particularly from March 8 to March 11, and to take necessary precautions to avoid potential dangers. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of Freepik Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-07 - 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

Conservation factions call for review into Land Bridge initiative by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of ThaiPost A call for a thorough investigation of the government’s Land Bridge initiative has been made by Chumphon and Ranong conservation factions, citing concerns about potential corruption and negative societal impacts. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321787-conservation-factions-call-for-review-into-land-bridge-initiative/

A call for a thorough investigation of the government’s Land Bridge initiative has been made by Chumphon and Ranong conservation factions, citing concerns about potential corruption and negative societal impacts. This large-scale project, which has already encountered significant opposition, could lead to locals losing their homes and livelihoods, according to the conservationists. Yesterday, representatives from the Rak Phato Network and the Chumphon-Ranong Conservation Group delivered a letter to four House committees. These were the National Security, Border Affairs, National Strategy, and National Reform Committee; the Land, Natural Resources, and Environment Committee; the Political Development, Mass Communications, and Public Participation Committee; and the Corruption Prevention and Suppression Committee. The conservationists believe these committees provide the appropriate platforms to voice their concerns and push for a thorough examination of the project, a significant government policy. The letter detailed four main concerns surrounding the project that, according to the conservation groups, warrant further scrutiny. The first concern raised by the groups is the lack of rigorous academic standards and public participation in the studies conducted on the project. They are calling for a new study that meets adequate academic standards and includes the views of those who would be directly impacted by the project. Secondly, the groups criticised the project for not having a comprehensive assessment, including clearly defined goals. They noted that the studies presented so far have been fragmented, potentially giving the government an incomplete and potentially misleading perspective on the project. The third point raised by the groups urges the prime minister to consider a wider plan to boost the economic potential of Ranong, Chumphon, and other southern provinces in areas such as tourism, fisheries, and agriculture. They argue that such a plan would be beneficial if the Land Bridge project fails to come to fruition, reported Bangkok Post. Lastly, the groups expressed concern that the project could harm local livelihoods, properties, and food sources due to the significant amount of land required for construction. They have requested that the committees investigate whether the project could enable foreign investors to profit at the expense of national security. by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of ThaiPost Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-07 - 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

Restaurant encroachment threatens Hua Hin’s sandy shores by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of The Nation Yamu Beach in Phuket may have just played second fiddle to an encroachment crisis engulfing the pristine sands of Hua Hin. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321786-restaurant-encroachment-threatens-hua-hin’s-sandy-shores/

Yamu Beach in Phuket may have just played second fiddle to an encroachment crisis engulfing the pristine sands of Hua Hin. Evidence surfaced on the Prachuap News Facebook page, showcasing a long line of eateries and guesthouses that have sunk their claws deep into Hua Hin’s main beach. Witnesses describe a scene akin to invasion, with some structures extending a staggering 20 metres into the sea, leaving beachgoers with nowhere to tread but upon these encroachments. According to the page, this dire situation dwarfs even the recent fiasco at Phuket’s Yamu Beach. Shockingly, local authorities in Hua Hin seem to be turning a blind eye to the brazen land grab, prompting a furious outcry from the public. The Facebook page took a satirical swipe at the sluggish response from Hua Hin officials compared to their swift counterparts in Phuket. “The seas may be salty in both Phuket and Hua Hin, but it seems only one is stirring the pot.” The root of this beachfront battleground traces back to an altercation in Phuket’s Yamu Beach, where a Swiss expat’s clash with a Thai doctor ignited a powder keg of discontent. The expat, claiming trespass, found himself embroiled in a scandal when it was revealed his luxury villa encroached a metre into the beach, leading to its swift demolition. While fingers point and accusations fly, the crux of the issue lies in the murky depths of bureaucracy. Despite calls for action, Hua Hin’s authorities seem paralysed, with no tangible steps taken to protect public interests. Even Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s new year sojourn failed to rouse any meaningful intervention, reported The Nation. Local Anuwat Pongdee laments the government’s inertia, highlighting the stark contrast between lavish holidays and tangible action to reclaim public spaces. Sources allege that many of these encroaching buildings boast connections to influential figures, stymieing efforts for justice. Even attempts by the military regime to reclaim the beachfront have been thwarted by the squatters’ defiant stance, citing lucrative gains. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of The Nation Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-07 - 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 proposes four Songkhla town clusters for UNESCO list by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of ThaiPost A proposal for the inclusion of four historic town clusters located in the southern province of Songkhla in UNESCO’s tentative list of potential new world heritage sites has been forwarded by Thailand’s national committee on the World Heritage Convention. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321783-thailand-proposes-four-songkhla-town-clusters-for-unesco-list/

A proposal for the inclusion of four historic town clusters located in the southern province of Songkhla in UNESCO’s tentative list of potential new world heritage sites has been forwarded by Thailand’s national committee on the World Heritage Convention. The recommendation was made yesterday, with the old town clusters representing communities and sites linked to Songkhla Lake. The committee meeting, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Natural Resources and Environment Minister, Phatcharavat Wongsuwan, identified the clusters as the Phang Yang, Phakho, and Si Yang old towns, the Sathing Phra old town, the Pom Khai Singkora and the Laem Son old towns, and the Songkhla and the Bo Yang old towns. These historic towns are spread across the districts of Mueang, Ranot, Sathing Phra, and Singha Nakhon. For the recommendation to progress, the proposal will be presented to the Cabinet before its submission to the Unesco World Heritage Centre. The timing is strategic, aiming to coincide with the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee in New Delhi, scheduled for July 21 to July 31. In addition to this, the committee acknowledged the tentative list nomination proposal of Phu Phra Bat Historical Park in the Ban Phue district, located in the northeastern province of Udon Thani. This significant site could be included in Unesco’s tentative list soon, reported Bangkok Post. The committee also instructed the Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning and the Fine Arts Department to expedite coordination work for a separate nomination proposal. This proposal, suggested by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, involves the entire province of Nan, with the intention of designating it as a new World Heritage site. In related news, Si Thep Historical Park in Phetchabun experienced an unexpected surge in visitor numbers over the weekend, following its announcement as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO on September 19 last year. by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of ThaiPost Full story: The Thaiger 2024-03-07 - 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

Koh Taen locals oppose inclusion in new national park plan by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of MGR Online Koh Taen island locals, situated in the Koh Samui district, handed in a petition yesterday in opposition to the Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation’s (DNP) plan. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321773-koh-taen-locals-oppose-inclusion-in-new-national-park-plan/