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Premium Korean car manufacturer, Kia, is exploring the possibility of setting up an electric vehicle (EV) factory in Thailand, as per an announcement made by Kia Sales (Thailand). The move comes in response to the rapidly expanding EV market in the country. If approved by Kia Corporation, the parent company which falls under the Hyundai Motor Group, Thailand would become the second Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member to host a Kia car plant, after Malaysia, said Jun Oh Lee, Kia Sales (Thailand) President. “We will continue to invest in EV manufacturing because we want to be a key player in EV technology development.” Negotiations are currently ongoing between Kia Corporation and the Board of Investment on EV incentives under the EV3.5 programme. This scheme aims to bolster the growth of the EV industry in Thailand and includes provisions for subsidies, lowered import duties for fully assembled cars, and a cut in excise tax. In the previous year, Kia revealed its intention to construct an EV factory in Thailand with an annual production capacity of 250,000 units. However, Jun refrained from disclosing any further information regarding the new investment, indicating that the parent company will announce it in due time. On a local level, Kia Sales (Thailand) plans to open between 26 and 30 service centres this year, a significant increase from the current 19 centres. This is part of the company’s effort to better serve its local customer base, as explained by Jean-David Christian Harel, vice-president for product and marketing at Kia Sales (Thailand). In the period between 2024 and 2026, Kia Sales (Thailand) is set to launch a range of new car models in Thailand, with a particular focus on the sport utility vehicle category. The company’s strategy is to position itself as a premium car seller with a target to secure a 20% market share in the premium car segment this year. Kia is undeterred by banks’ more stringent criteria for granting car loans, citing the financial health of its customers as a reason for optimism. Kia’s decision to market cars in Thailand comes amidst the rapid growth of the country’s EV market and heightened competition among EV manufacturers, reported Bangkok Post. by Alex Morgan Top Photo courtesy of Pattarapong Chatpattarasill Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-05 - 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 airlines soar to record profits amid tourism boom by Krajangwit Johjit BANGKOK (NNT) - Thailand's aviation sector has experienced an impressive recovery, posting record profits in 2023, driven by a resurgence in the country’s tourism industry. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321597-thai-airlines-soar-to-record-profits-amid-tourism-boom/

BANGKOK (NNT) - Thailand's aviation sector has experienced an impressive recovery, posting record profits in 2023, driven by a resurgence in the country’s tourism industry. Airlines and tourism-related businesses listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) saw a dramatic shift from the previous year's losses to substantial profits. The total profit for the sector reached 31.4 billion baht, escalating to 40 billion baht when including operations of Airports of Thailand (AOT). This turnaround is a major rebound from the 21 billion baht loss recorded in 2022, which also included AOT's figures. Leading the charge, Thai Airways reported unprecedented profits of 28 billion baht, the highest in its history and a stark contrast to the 12 billion baht loss before the COVID-19 pandemic in 2019. Despite achieving a revenue of 161.07 billion baht in 2023, the airline has yet to surpass its 2019 revenue figures. In response, Thai Airways has announced plans for a capital increase through additional stock issuance, aiming to restore shareholders' equity to positive levels by the end of the year, with hopes to resume trading its shares on the stock market by 2025. Bangkok Airways also reported a profitable year with earnings exceeding 3.1 billion baht, attributed to the industry's recovery, bolstered by strategic partnerships like the one with Singapore Airlines. The collaboration, alongside code-share agreements with 28 other airlines, aims to facilitate easier travel to and from Thailand and neighboring regions. Thai AirAsia experienced a significant turnaround, posting a profit of 2.81 billion baht in the final quarter of 2023, culminating in a total profit of 465 million baht for the year. The airline's CEO anticipates a strong year ahead, fueled by the return of Chinese tourists and new flight routes. Thai AirAsia plans to transport 21 million passengers in 2024, aiming for a 90% passenger load factor and a 20 to 23% increase in revenue, supported by an expanded fleet of 60 aircraft by year's end. by Krajangwit Johjit Source: NNT 2024-03-05 - 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

Loan rejections soar for Thai homes under 3 million baht by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of condonayoo The Thai housing market is facing a significant challenge as a growing number of loan applications for homes priced below 3 million baht are being rejected. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321592-loan-rejections-soar-for-thai-homes-under-3-million-baht/

The Thai housing market is facing a significant challenge as a growing number of loan applications for homes priced below 3 million baht are being rejected. According to the Housing Finance Association, the rejection rate has spiked to 50%, highlighting the vulnerability of this segment despite its substantial market size. The association’s secretary-general and chairman of the executive board, Alangkot Boonmasuk, pointed out that several factors contribute to this situation. The high household debt level, which stands above 90% of the country’s GDP, coupled with declining incomes and rising living costs, have all weakened the purchasing power for residential properties. Furthermore, the increase in non-performing loans (NPLs) has led financial institutions to adopt stricter lending criteria, resulting in half of the loan applications being denied. Specifically, the market for homes under the 3 million baht threshold is of considerable size in the real estate sector, yet it is also a fragile group facing significant financial hurdles. Alangkot mentioned that the association is currently in discussions with financial institutions to compile their views and find appropriate measures that align with the current economic conditions. They aim to understand the reasons behind the high rejection rates and the lending frameworks of different banks to enable financial institutions to better support the real estate business. While banks also have targets for issuing new loans, they express a desire to support citizens in owning homes through loan mechanisms. However, they face numerous challenges that contribute to the high rejection rates. It’s not just new homes that are affected; the second-hand market for homes under 3 million baht is also experiencing difficulties with loan approvals, reported KhaoSod. The association is actively seeking solutions to this issue, which is crucial for maintaining the health of the property sector and the wider economy. The high rate of loan rejections not only impacts potential homebuyers but also reverberates through the construction industry and other related sectors. by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of condonayoo Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-05 - 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

Over a million Buddhists gather to venerate Buddha’s relics in Bangkok by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Sanam Luang in Bangkok recently played host to over 1 million Buddhists who congregated to venerate the relics of the Lord Buddha and his chief disciples, Sariputra and Moggallana. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321591-over-a-million-buddhists-gather-to-venerate-buddha’s-relics-in-bangkok/

Sanam Luang in Bangkok recently played host to over 1 million Buddhists who congregated to venerate the relics of the Lord Buddha and his chief disciples, Sariputra and Moggallana. The Ministry of Culture reported this mass gathering took place between February 24 and March 3. The Culture Minister, Sermsak Pongpanich, revealed that roughly 100,000 Buddhists visited each day during the nine-day display period. The Indian government transferred the relics to Thailand to celebrate His Majesty the King’s 6th-cycle birthday, his 72nd, which will occur on July 28, and to observe Makha Bucha Day, on February 24. As of now, the relics have been moved to Chiang Mai and are on display at the Royal Pavillion, or Ho Kham Luang, in Royal Park Rajapruek. Visitors can view the relics from 9am to 8pm until this Friday. The local high-ranking Buddhist monks, Culture Ministry executives, and Chiang Mai’s governor Nirat Pongsitthaworn greeted the relics’ arrival in Chiang Mai. A grand parade, complete with local cultural elements, ushered the relics to the Royal Pavillion. Visitors can choose to pay their respects during a morning or afternoon session, with each session accommodating up to 3,000 attendees. Every evening, between 6pm and 7pm, a special ceremony will be held to bless the Buddhists who have come to venerate the relics, reported Bangkok Post. Pongpanich anticipates that the Chiang Mai exhibition and other regional exhibitions will attract a significant number of Buddhists. After their stint in Chiang Mai, the relics will move on to Ubon Ratchathani, where they will be displayed between March 10 and 13, and then to Krabi from March 15 to 18. Following these exhibitions, the relics will be returned to India, according to authorities. In related news, the collaborative salvage operation between the Royal Thai Navy and the United States Navy unearthed a Buddha sculpture and several documents from the sunken HTMS Sukhothai on its third day. This information was relayed by Royal Admiral Veerudom Muangjin, a spokesperson for the Royal Thai Navy, who shared that these items were found by a combined diving team near the primary engine’s hatch. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-05 - 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

Swiss man’s visa revoked? Police start to dig deeper - Tim Newton Today - March 5 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321590-swiss-man’s-visa-revoked-police-start-to-dig-deeper-tim-newton-today-march-5/

T Thailand News - More fallout from the Swiss man and the alleged 'doctor kicking' scandal. Senior police and the Thai PM have become embroiled in the saga, ordering swift action into all foreigners who could be operating illegal businesses in Phuket. Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways and Thai Air Asia all report record profits in recent quarters, a green Jeep is found abandoned in the water at Kamala Beach, Yingluck Shinawatra is exonerated over charges made over bidding for the Thailand 2022 Roadshow project, and a Thai 'Swiftie' is left stranded outside the venue in Singapore for last Saturday's Taylor Swift concert, citing fake tickets. Tim Newton Today is a daily take on Thai and regional news and issues of interest to expats and foreign tourists.

Thai economy set for revival amid global uncertainties by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Apichart Jinakul The Federation of Thai Capital Market Organizations (FETCO) anticipates a revival of the Thai economy in the latter half of the year, supported by potential interest rate reductions. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321587-thai-economy-set-for-revival-amid-global-uncertainties/

The Federation of Thai Capital Market Organizations (FETCO) anticipates a revival of the Thai economy in the latter half of the year, supported by potential interest rate reductions. This optimistic outlook emerges amidst global economic uncertainties, with possible recessions in the UK and Japan, and China grappling with a prolonged property crisis. FETCO chairman Kobsak Pootrakool believes that the global economy could bounce back once central banks commence lowering their interest rates, which may occur in the coming months. “Central banks all over the world may keep the current policy rates unchanged until mid-2024. In the second half of this year, those central banks might start cutting rates. And if central banks across the globe keep cutting rates every quarter for a half to a full year, this might result in the world economy entering a new recovery stage.” Despite global economic deceleration and geopolitical turbulence, Thailand’s tourism sector has demonstrated resilience, aiding the country’s economy. So far, the country has seen an influx of six million international tourists this year, with one million coming from China. Thailand also continues to attract holidaymakers from Malaysia and India. As per the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, Thailand greeted approximately 5.98 million overseas tourists between January 1 and February 25. Visitors from China topped the list, followed by Malaysians (760,000) and Russians (397,000), Kobsak said, during an event hosted by Fetco and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). “I think the government’s goal to welcome 35 million foreign visitors in 2024 is achievable. The tourism sector might drive the economy this year by 2%.” Alongside anticipated tourism growth, Kobsak also highlighted that the government budget for fiscal 2024 would be ready for disbursement in May, and exports have started to recover. Coupled with increasing foreign investment, he forecasts a 3% economic growth for Thailand this year. Social development At the same event, the SEC’s secretary-general, Pornanong Budsaratragoon, stated that the commission aims to promote community investment and social development. She expressed the commission’s readiness to assist companies in raising funds through the stock market and drive all stakeholders towards sustainability. The SEC has set guidelines to allow fundraising in the capital market via a cloud funding channel and private placement. It has also issued requirements for sustainable-theme bonds, such as green bonds, social bonds, and sustainability bonds. “The total funds raised at the end of January through these bonds exceeded 700 billion baht.” Pornanong further revealed that the major issuers of such bonds are in the government sector, including the Ministry of Finance. The funds procured from these transactions will be utilised for various investment programmes, such as the construction of the MRT Orange Line. by Alex Morgan Top Photo courtesy of Apichart Jinakul Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-05 - 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

Big Bike Riders Arrested for Drug Trafficking CHIANG RAI, March 5 (TNA) – Police on Monday arrested a gang of bikers with 1.8 million methamphetamine pills in total at a resort in the northernborder province of Chiang Rai. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321586-big-bike-riders-arrested-for-drug-trafficking/

CHIANG RAI, March 5 (TNA) – Police on Monday arrested a gang of bikers with 1.8 million methamphetamine pills in total at a resort in the northernborder province of Chiang Rai. The operation, conducted in collaboration with Chiang Rai police and relevant agencies, resulted in the arrest of six suspects along with six motorcycles. During the raid, upon inspecting the parked motorcycles, officers found approximately 380,000 meth pills concealed in the saddlebags of five bikes, totaling 1.8 million pills seized. Preliminary investigations revealed that one of the motorcycles surveyed the route, while the other five were used for drug transportation. The capture was challenging as the bikers used their vehicles’ speed and alternative routes to evade authorities, a tactic of drug trafficking groups abroad. After the arrests, authorities plan to further expand the asset seizure process. Full story: TNA-MCOT 2024-03-05 - 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

Foreign currency deposits surge in Thailand by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of iStock The past year has seen a significant upturn in foreign currency deposits (FCDs), spurred by appealing interest rates due to global rate hikes. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321585-foreign-currency-deposits-surge-in-thailand/

The past year has seen a significant upturn in foreign currency deposits (FCDs), spurred by appealing interest rates due to global rate hikes. According to data from the Deposit Protection Agency (DPA), member financial institutions observed a surge in FCDs to a total value of 812 billion baht (US$22 billion) by November 2023, up from an earlier figure of 640 billion baht (US$17.89 billion). This period also saw some large local banks reporting a remarkable 50% growth in FCDs per bank. The DPA’s president, Songpol Cheevapayaroj, attributed this growth to the attractive interest rates banks were offering, aligned with the global increase in rates. The interest rates offered by large local banks for FCDs fixed over 12 months ranged from 0.4% to 0.6% per annum, as per the Bank of Thailand’s database. Smaller to mid-sized banks, on the other hand, offered interest rates between 3-5%, depending on the bank’s conditions. FCDs, besides being an investment alternative, serve multiple purposes. They are used by importers and exporters to manage foreign exchange risk and by individuals for specific needs. For example, parents planning to send their children abroad for education or individuals preparing for overseas trips often save via FCD accounts to mitigate foreign exchange risk. Despite their value, FCDs fall outside the protection of the DPA. FCDs lack DPA protection, but they don’t pose a significant risk to the financial system due to their relatively small proportion. Total deposits under DPA protection amount to 16 trillion baht (US$447 billion), representing a deposit coverage ratio of 98%, while FCDs stand at 812 billion baht, Songpol Cheevapayaroj explained. Deposit awareness In 2024, the DPA aims to enhance awareness of protected deposit types, including general deposits, digital savings, e-wallets and deposits from emerging virtual banks. Suwannee Jatsadasak, assistant governor for the supervision group, stated that the central bank has also been monitoring the positive growth of FCDs, driven primarily by attractive interest rate offerings. Despite the increased value of FCDs, she stated that this does not indicate any systematic risks, given that FCDs account for less than 1% of total deposits in the banking sector. Business operators, especially importers and exporters, and individuals with foreign-currency-based income and expenses, often use FCD accounts to streamline foreign exchange management. She added that FCD accounts are also viewed by some depositors as an alternative investment avenue for better returns. However, they need to be aware of the higher foreign exchange risk. According to Ms Suwannee, FCD depositors are often affluent investors with a higher risk appetite, reported Bangkok Post. by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of iStock Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-05 - 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

Meeting held to address unauthorised railway crossings in Prachuap Khiri Khan By Online Reporter Hua Hin Municipality has participated in a meeting focused on unauthorized railway crossings within Prachuap Khiri Khan Province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321584-meeting-held-to-address-unauthorised-railway-crossings-in-prachuap-khiri-khan/

Hua Hin Municipality has participated in a meeting focused on unauthorized railway crossings within Prachuap Khiri Khan Province. The session marked the inaugural 2024 gathering of subcommittee aiming to scrutinize permits and devise solutions for unauothorized railway crossing on provincial roads. Mr. Jeerawat Phramanee, the Municipal Clerk of Hua Hin, represented the city at the directive of the Mayor, the Deputy Governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan, Mr. Kittipong Sukphakul, presided over the meeting, acting on behalf of the provincial Governor. The meeting heard how the Ministry of Transport and the State Railway of Thailand want to reduce the crossings between railways and roadways through the construction of overpasses and underpasses. Additionally, the strategy includes the installation of protective fencing along railway perimeters, particularly in zones undergoing upgrades to dual-track systems. By Online Reporter Full story: HUA HIN TODAY 2024-03-05 - 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 woman exposes half-naked motorbike rider (video) by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ อยากดังเดี๋ยวจัดให้ รีเทริน์ part 6 A Thai woman shared a video of a half naked motorcycle rider from a ride-hailing application on social media to warn other users. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321582-thai-woman-exposes-half-naked-motorbike-rider-video/

A Thai woman shared a video of a half naked motorcycle rider from a ride-hailing application on social media to warn other users. The 20 year old victim shared a video of her ride on Facebook and Instagram. The video showed the indecent motorcycle rider wearing a black jacket without any underwear. The woman stated in the video caption… “Do I deserve this on my birthday? I was scared and shaking. I can’t imagine what will happen if he (the driver) doesn’t agree to stop when I ask him to. I am so scared.” The victim later gave an interview with the media saying the incident took place at about 4.30am on Friday, March 1. She reported the matter to the Bang Yi Khan Police Station and then decided to share the video on social media to warn other users, especially women, to watch out for the man. The woman went on to explain that she used an app to book a ride from Soi Borommaratchachonnani 9 in Bangkok Noi district to Soi Ratchada 36 in Chatuchak district. Some news outlets reported that the app used by the victim was Bolt. She did not notice any suspicious behaviour when the rider arrived at the pick-up point and agreed to take the ride. During the ride, she felt the driver’s leg touching her legs but ignored it because she thought he was wearing shorts. Her suspicions were raised along the way, so she took a video of the driver and sent it to her friend, who confirmed that the driver was half-naked. The woman said she immediately asked the rider to stop halfway down Sirindhorn Road and secretly looked at his bottom. She was shocked to see his penis and immediately got off the motorcycle. She sought help from a motorcycle taxi rider in the area and went to the police station. The victim added that the rider sent a message to her via Facebook Messenger after the incident asking her to delete the video. “I’m sorry. I was drunk. You can make me do anything. I’m willing to give you a free ride for a month.” The woman did not reply to the rider and insisted on taking legal action against him. Police stated that they would identify the rider and summon him for questioning at the police station. by Petch Petpailin Top Photo via Facebook/ อยากดังเดี๋ยวจัดให้ รีเทริน์ part 6 Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-05 - 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 call center scam mastermind nabbed at border by Nattapong Westwood PHOTO: via Inside Bitcoin The Thai authorities arrested a Thai national, on charges related to operating a call centre scam that duped victims into installing fake electricity utility apps and draining bank accounts of up to 1 million baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321580-thai-call-center-scam-mastermind-nabbed-at-border/

The Thai authorities arrested a Thai national, on charges related to operating a call centre scam that duped victims into installing fake electricity utility apps and draining bank accounts of up to 1 million baht. The suspect, 24 year old Supharit, who received a 10-20% commission per scam, totalling over 500 million baht, is also linked to a case where a victim tragically ended their life today, March 4. The arrest followed a meticulous police investigation that uncovered the fraudulent operation involving fake electricity utility apps designed to siphon funds from victims’ accounts. Supharit, who was apprehended at the Ban Klong Luek border crossing in Aranyaprathet district, Sa Kaeo province, admitted to his role in the call centre scam based in Poipet. He confessed to having been part of the scheme for a year, with the largest single swindle amounting to 1 million baht. The investigation revealed that he was a primary deceiver in the operations, convincing victims with his articulate and trustworthy demeanour. Supharit demonstrated the deception techniques he employed, convincing without the need for a script. The police have charged him with multiple offences, including conspiracy to commit fraud, computer-related crimes involving distorted or fabricated data, unauthorized access to protected computer data, and the misuse of electronic cards. Following his confession and the documentation of his arrest, the scamming Supharit was handed over to investigators from the Central Investigation Bureau for legal proceedings. The case highlights the sophisticated tactics used by call centre scams to exploit victims, often leading to devastating financial losses and, in severe instances, tragic outcomes. The collaborative effort of various police units, including the Immigration Police of Sa Kaeo, the Border Patrol Police, and the Technology Crime Suppression Division, underscores the serious approach law enforcement is taking to combat such elaborate frauds and bring the perpetrators to justice, reported KhaoSod. by Nattapong Westwood PHOTO: via Inside Bitcoin Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-05 - 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

Rama II expressway construction issues prompt contractor downgrade considerations by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The construction of the Rama II Road expressway, currently plagued by delays, substandard work and safety concerns, has prompted Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin to consider downgrading contractors responsible for the project. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321578-rama-ii-expressway-construction-issues-prompt-contractor-downgrade-considerations/

The construction of the Rama II Road expressway, currently plagued by delays, substandard work and safety concerns, has prompted Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin to consider downgrading contractors responsible for the project. The state budget office was instructed to investigate possible penalties for the contractors involved. Patricia Mongkhonvanit, director-general of the Comptroller General’s Department, was called to meet with the prime minister on Monday to discuss the recurring issues. The department oversees the budgets of all state projects. “The problems arising from the delays in the construction work on Rama II Road continue to have somewhat serious effects on people. They must be fixed,” PM Srettha stated following their meeting. He then left for Melbourne to attend the ASEAN-Australia summit. Firms found to violate project deadlines or produce substandard work will be downgraded, he added. These punitive measures, he believes, will encourage contractors to be more attentive and responsible in their construction projects. However, the Premier did not clarify whether the penalties would apply to both major contractors and subcontractors, or what the downgrading process entailed. Construction companies that win significant projects usually subcontract portions of the work to smaller firms. Rama II Road is a primary connection between Bangkok and the southern region, including the popular resort town of Hua Hin. Traffic congestion on Rama II has been recognised by the current and previous governments as a detriment to tourism in the area. Local and international tourists opt for alternative destinations to avoid the traffic bottlenecks. The expressway, designed to reduce travel time from Bangkok to Samut Sakhon, has in reality exacerbated congestion due to construction delays, frequent accidents, and road closures. The situation is particularly dire during weekends and long holidays. Several construction mishaps have even led to fatalities. The most recent incident occurred on January 18, when a sling snapped, killing a worker and causing the crane’s lifting basket to plummet. In May, another worker was killed by a falling slab of concrete. The construction of the new expressway is divided into ten separate contracts. It commenced in February 2012 and was initially set for completion in January next year. However, the main contractor has already been granted a six-month extension. Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit assured on Monday that the expansion of Rama II Road would meet its new deadline, if not be completed ahead of schedule, with bi-monthly follow-ups, reported Bangkok Post. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-05 - 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

Swiss national’s visa status under review following Phuket assault case update by Mitch Conno Photo courtesy of Phuket Info Centre The visa status of a Swiss national, embroiled in an assault case in Phuket, is set to undergo review by the immigration police, according to Deputy Phuket Governor, Adul Chuthong. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321554-update-swiss-man’s-visa-revoked/?do=findComment&comment=18741969

Swiss national’s visa status under review following Phuket assault case update by Mitch Conno Photo courtesy of Phuket Info Centre The visa status of a Swiss national, embroiled in an assault case in Phuket, is set to undergo review by the immigration police, according to Deputy Phuket Governor, Adul Chuthong. The Swiss national, known as Urs Fehr or David, whose visa is due to expire on March 13, is the operator of several Thai businesses and has a registered foundation under his name. “Immigration will review Fehr’s visa status and decide whether or not to extend the visa when it expires,” stated Adul. He added that the legality of Fehr’s businesses and foundation in Thailand are also under investigation. The scrutiny of Fehr intensified after an assault report was lodged by Thandao Chandam, a 26 year old doctor at Dibuk Hospital. The incident, which took place on February 24, involved Fehr kicking Chandam and her friend in their backs as they were stargazing on the beach, positioned in front of his rented villa. Fehr alleged that the pair were trespassing on his property, however, subsequent investigations found that the steps were built on public land. Adul stated that Fehr has been given a 30-day notice to remove the steps. Failure to comply will result in local authorities dismantling them and imposing the cost of the work on him. While Fehr has been charged with assault, the incident has sparked demands for a comprehensive investigation into his property and businesses. Assurances have been given by the deputy governor that action will be taken against individuals infringing on public land and those acting above the law. In the meantime, Phuket Governor, Sopon Suwanrat, has tasked district chiefs and security officials to initiate an investigation and report their findings. Provincial Police Region 8 Commissioner, Police Lieutenant General Surapong Thanomjit, stated on Monday that the police will delve deeper into the case, as immigration police hold the power to revoke visas of criminal offenders and deport them back to their home countries, reported Bangkok Post. Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-05 - 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