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Firefighters are on alert around Thailand with ovr 4,000 fires currently burning, but no mention of farmers or ‘burning season’, 4 new airlines for the Thai aviation market, the two young hunger strikers are on their 44th day and gravely ill - how will the Thai government respond? It’s a long weekend in Thailand and an alcohol-free Buddhist holiday on Monday. Nick talks about his compulsory army training, cooking frogs, tramping around the Nakhon Is Thammarat bushland and conscription in Thailand.

OAG rules in favor of DNP in Nang Rong waterfall tourism dispute by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post A recent ruling by a committee from the Office of Attorney-General (OAG) has settled a long-standing dispute between the Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) and the Nakhon Nayok Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321488-oag-rules-in-favor-of-dnp-in-nang-rong-waterfall-tourism-dispute/

A recent ruling by a committee from the Office of Attorney-General (OAG) has settled a long-standing dispute between the Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) and the Nakhon Nayok Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO). The contention revolved around the 12-rai Nang Rong waterfall tourism compound located within the Khao Yai National Park. The OAG’s verdict favours the DNP, stating that the controversial compound falls under their oversight. This verdict comes in the form of a letter addressed to the DNP, underscoring the role of the OAG committee in resolving disagreements between state agencies. The dispute between the DNP and the Nakhon Nayok PAO dates back to 2015, reported Bangkok Post. At the heart of the disagreement lies the claim by the DNP that the PAO has been unlawfully occupying their land within the precincts of Khao Yai National Park. In contrast, the PAO argues that the first structure in the compound was erected in 1955, predating the official declaration of the Khao Yai National Park boundary. The disputed site includes several key features such as the residence of Field Marshal Plaek Pibulsongkram, the tourist service office of the PAO, several tourist bungalows, and other structures. In related news, former Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister Thamanat Prompow took action to demolish illegal resorts on Sor Por Kor land near Khao Yai National Park, meant for farmers. His directive aimed to reclaim land for its designated agricultural purpose. Following a nationwide inspection of ALRO land, individuals were urged to surrender voluntarily to avoid penalties. The move aimed to resolve disputes between ALRO and the Department of National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, with plans for buffer zones. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin expressed optimism about resolving conflicts with the upcoming unified land map. Efforts by the ALRO, DNP, and RTSD to survey disputed areas were ahead of schedule, enhancing prospects for resolution. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-04 - 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 joins forces with Netherlands for eco-friendly urban mobility by Thaiger ACTIVE Workshop in Bangkok. Bangkok has coordinated with the Dutch concept to design Bangkok into a walkable and cycling city. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321487-bangkok-joins-forces-with-netherlands-for-eco-friendly-urban-mobility/

Bangkok has coordinated with the Dutch concept to design Bangkok into a walkable and cycling city. Assoc. Prof. Wisanu Supsompon, along with Sanon Wangsrangboon, the Deputy Governors of Bangkok and Remco Johannes van Wijngaarden, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Thailand, attended a presentation of ideas and group activities discussion at the ACTIVE Workshop in Bangkok at Rattanakosin Room at Bangkok City Hall in Phra Nakhon District. Deputy Governor Wisanu said… “Bangkok City hopes that the concept of becoming a walkable and cycling city must be realized, not just designed. Right now we have a policy that we are working on which is Bike Sharing, with the first important policy for travelling being the First and Last Mile, travelling well from the starting point to the destination to promote easier use of bicycles.” Woman is biking over the street crossing Plantage Middenlaan, Netherlands. Image via Unsplash (Credit: Fons Heijnsbroek) The Ambassador of the Netherlands expressed his admiration to see everyone participating in the Workshop together to make cycling in Bangkok better. He had ridden a bicycle in Bangkok and believed that it was possible in areas in Bangkok where everyone worked together to improve and solve problems, which are important areas for the city’s development. The Netherlands Embassy is pleased to support Bangkok. Organising the ACTIVE Workshop in Bangkok this time, Bangkok is in cooperation with the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management of the Netherlands under the project “Alliance for Cycling and Walking Towards International Vitality and Empowerment” (ACTIVE). Cycling Lane at Benchakitti Park, Bangkok. Image via Unsplash (Credit: Rutpratheep Nilpechr) It is to support experts from the Dutch Cycling Embassy to provide knowledge on the infrastructure development, behaviour, and organizational structure of the cycling community to attendees. More than 60 representatives from various agencies attended to apply their knowledge about Dutch cities to Bangkok. Press Release by Thaiger ACTIVE Workshop in Bangkok. Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-04 - 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 surrogacy revolution: Foreign couples welcome by Samantha Rose Photo courtesy of Freepik Authorities in Thailand are on the brink of a groundbreaking change in surrogacy laws, poised to welcome foreign couples into the country for surrogate births, reveals the Department of Health Service Support. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321486-thai-surrogacy-revolution-foreign-couples-welcome/

Authorities in Thailand are on the brink of a groundbreaking change in surrogacy laws, poised to welcome foreign couples into the country for surrogate births, reveals the Department of Health Service Support. The current legislation, known as the Protection for Children Born through Assisted Reproductive Technologies Act, restricts surrogacy services to Thai nationals alone, clarified Arkhom Praditsuwan, the department’s deputy director-general. However, a proposed amendment aims to open the doors for foreign couples, granting them access to surrogacy services within Thailand. Prospective parents would have the choice to either bring in surrogate mothers from abroad or select Thai women for the role. As the department’s committee crafts the necessary regulations, Arkhom asserted that if the bill passes, it will be the first of its kind in the world. “Foreigners are paying special attention to this issue. When this is liberalised, the health economy should be quite active.” Moreover, the bill is set to include stringent measures to combat human trafficking. For years, illegal surrogacy arrangements by foreigners have posed a challenge for Thai authorities. Investigations into the smuggling of frozen semen, eggs, and embryos across borders remain ongoing. Enacted in 2015, the current Act imposed stringent regulations on surrogacy, banning its utilisation by foreign couples following several high-profile scandals. Dr Sura Wisedsak, director-general of the department, notes that the law has since aided numerous couples struggling with fertility issues. Fertility treatment is now accessible at 115 facilities nationwide, encompassing 67 clinics, 31 private hospitals, and 17 public hospitals. Despite this, last year witnessed a decline in newborn numbers to below 500,000, with a further drop anticipated this year, reported Bangkok Post. With approximately 800,000 deaths occurring annually, Thailand’s population is dwindling. Citizens aged over 60 now comprise 20% of the total population, a figure projected to soar to one-third by 2030. Dr Sura highlights the growing success rate of fertility treatments in the country, underlining the internationally recognised technology employed. This year, the department aims to push for amendments to the Act, including provisions to permit women’s biological relatives aged 20 to 40 to donate eggs and allow women over 55 to arrange surrogacy for their offspring. by Samantha Rose Photo courtesy of Freepik Full story: The Thaiger 2024-03-04 - 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 unveils new culinary gem: Koh Yao sea cucumber by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Thailand’s Department of Intellectual Property (DIP) unveiled the coveted Koh Yao sea cucumber, freshly adorned with a prestigious geographical indication (GI) stamp. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321485-thailand-unveils-new-culinary-gem-koh-yao-sea-cucumber/

Thailand’s Department of Intellectual Property (DIP) unveiled the coveted Koh Yao sea cucumber, freshly adorned with a prestigious geographical indication (GI) stamp. Hailing from the picturesque district of Koh Yao, nestled in Phang Nga province, these sea cucumbers boast a journey from earthen ponds to dining tables, brimming with local expertise. Crafted with indigenous knowledge and wisdom, the Koh Yao sea cucumber presents a tantalising treat for gastronomes. With its elongated form and tantalisingly firm texture, it’s a delight for the senses. And it’s not just about taste, this GI registration signifies a deeper commitment to preserving the essence of Koh Yao’s culinary heritage, reported Pattaya Mail. The GI seal serves as a guardian, shielding both consumers and producers alike. By meticulously controlling quality and thwarting counterfeit claims, it ensures an authentic experience while elevating the product’s value. Joining the illustrious ranks of Phang-nga’s gastronomic treasures, Salika durian, Rai Dawk Kha Phang-Nga rice, and Tip Phang-Nga mangosteen, the Koh Yao sea cucumber emerges as a culinary gem deserving of worldwide acclaim. In related news, aiming to boost sales from geographical indication (GI) products to 60 billion baht by 2024, the Commerce Ministry is set to expand the GI product list by an additional 20 items this year. Deputy Commerce Minister Napintorn Srisunpang highlighted the plan as a strategy to enhance the competitiveness of the agricultural sector. By utilising GI as a tool, it is hoped to add value to crops with geographical or cultural significance, subsequently leading to job creation and income generation for Thai farmers. In other news, Phuket‘s renowned seven-colour lobster attained official recognition as one of Thailand’s geographical indication (GI) treasures, according to the Department of Intellectual Property (DIP). Departing from the norm, Department Director-General Vuttikrai Leewiraphan disclosed that officials started an investigation to delve into the intricacies of seven-colour lobster farming and glean insights from the local entrepreneurs who have turned this unique crustacean into a gastronomic sensation among Phuket’s visitors. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Full story: The Thaiger 2024-03-04 - 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

Transport Co warns against taxi surcharge at bus terminus by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of The Nation Amidst a surge of complaints, Transport Co Ltd, a state enterprise under the Transport Ministry, took swift action against taxi drivers fleecing passengers with a hefty 50-baht surcharge at the terminus, better known as Mo Chit 2, servicing provinces in the North and Northeast. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321484-transport-co-warns-against-taxi-surcharge-at-bus-terminus/

Amidst a surge of complaints, Transport Co Ltd, a state enterprise under the Transport Ministry, took swift action against taxi drivers fleecing passengers with a hefty 50-baht surcharge at the terminus, better known as Mo Chit 2, servicing provinces in the North and Northeast. As of Friday, Transport Co has put the brakes on the arrival area, redirecting all interprovincial buses to drop off passengers at the departure section. In a statement released yesterday, Transport Co vehemently denied any involvement in encouraging such exploitative practices, urging passengers to remain vigilant. The announcement warned the public not to get duped by such a claim, advising affected passengers to report incidents by dialling the Department of Land Transport at 1584. Moreover, stern action awaits any taxi drivers caught red-handed imposing illicit surcharges on passengers. Instead, travellers are advised to head to the official taxi stand near Exit 4 to evade such unscrupulous tactics, reported The Nation. Moreover, Transport Co has stepped up its game by offering a shuttle bus service between the bus terminal and Mo Chit BTS station from 4am to 7am. Additionally, passengers can opt for public buses at the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority terminal south of the Chatuchak Bus Terminus. In related news, Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit announced plans on Tuesday, February 27, to move the Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai) and the Bangkok Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2) to the Krung Thep Abhiwat Central Terminal. The intention behind the move is to offer more convenience to travellers as the Central Terminal can be easily reached using the MRT electronic rail system. In other news, in a move to safeguard tourists’ wallets, Bangkok unveils an arsenal of measures to tackle the notorious tuk tuk and taxi overcharging crisis. Amidst a flurry of concerns raised over the fleecing of foreign tourists by tuk tuk and taxi drivers, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration has taken a decisive stand. Permanent Secretary Wanthanee Wattana spearheaded this pivotal moment following an intensive meeting with both public and private stakeholders. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of The Nation Full story: The Thaiger 2024-03-04 - 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

New airport planned for Kalasin to boost tourism and exports by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Royal Thai Government Srettha Thavisin, the Prime Minister and Finance Minister, has endorsed the proposition of constructing a new airport in the northeastern province of Kalasin. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321483-new-airport-planned-for-kalasin-to-boost-tourism-and-exports/

Srettha Thavisin, the Prime Minister and Finance Minister, has endorsed the proposition of constructing a new airport in the northeastern province of Kalasin. While touring the region recently, Srettha indicated that the government has reserved funds for a feasibility study concerning the airport. The results of this study will guide the government’s next steps. The district of Yang Talat is under consideration as the potential location for the airport due to its strategic position at the midpoint of Kalasin and Maha Sarakham. This location would allow the airport to service both provinces. Consequently, the proposed airport has been given the provisional name of Sarasin, a name derived from the amalgamation of Maha Sarakham and Kalasin, reported Bangkok Post. Srettha expressed his belief that Kalasin requires its own airport to attract more tourists, boost local export levels, and draw additional investment into the province. The plan to construct an airport in Kalasin took root in June 2021 when the government initiated a public forum to gather opinions from local residents. With the proposal receiving a warm welcome, the following step was to launch a study to assess the viability of constructing an airport in the area. The conclusions drawn from this study will be presented to the Transport Ministry. Following his tour, Srettha expressed his concern over the current state of health services in Kalasin and encouraged public health agencies to submit a request to the cabinet for increased funding. He also emphasised the government’s commitment to combating the spread of narcotics and household debt. In related news, Thailand’s Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited (AOT) initiated a 210 billion baht investment to develop six national airports, aiming to boost global aviation rankings. Thai Airways planned fleet expansion and an Aircraft Repair Center in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) to meet increasing demand. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Royal Thai Government Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-04 - 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

Accountant arrested in Thailand for 130 million baht tax fraud by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Thai authorities recently apprehended a 46 year old accountant involved in a substantial tax invoice fraud, causing a loss of over 130 million baht (US$3.6) to the state. The arrest of Wimala, the individual at the centre of the investigation, marked a significant breakthrough in a tax evasion case that has highlighted vulnerabilities in the country’s financial regulation systems. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321482-accountant-arrested-in-thailand-for-130-million-baht-tax-fraud/

Thai authorities recently apprehended a 46 year old accountant involved in a substantial tax invoice fraud, causing a loss of over 130 million baht (US$3.6) to the state. The arrest of Wimala, the individual at the centre of the investigation, marked a significant breakthrough in a tax evasion case that has highlighted vulnerabilities in the country’s financial regulation systems. On March 3, a well-coordinated operation led by the Economic Crime Suppression Division (ECD) culminated in the capture of Wimala in front of her residence in Klong Luang district, Pathum Thani province. The arrest, based on a warrant issued by the Criminal Court on February 28, was part of an ongoing crackdown on tax-related offences, called ‘Anti-tax crime’. The investigation, initiated after a complaint by the Revenue Department, revealed that Wimala was listed as a director with significant control in a company that existed only on paper. This ‘ghost’ company was identified as a non-operational entity, raising immediate red flags for the authorities. Further probing uncovered that the company had issued around 2,300 fraudulent tax invoices between October 2013 and December 2015, reported KhaoSod. Numerous businesses had used these counterfeit tax invoices to claim tax refunds, resulting in financial damages exceeding 130 million baht. The severity of the crime is reflected in the potential penalties, with convictions carrying prison terms of up to seven years. During interrogation, Wimala confessed that an acquaintance had requested her national ID card to establish several companies and open multiple bank accounts. She claimed to be unaware of the intended misuse of her information and agreed to the scheme for a remuneration of slightly over 100,000 baht (US$2,794). In related news, a Frenchman was arrested for producing fake IDs in Chiang Mai, while another suspect evaded capture. Authorities seized evidence implicating the suspects, coordinating with French authorities. Similar incidents involving foreigners were reported in Bangkok and Phuket, resulting in multiple arrests. by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-04 - 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 - Monday 4 March 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321471-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-monday-4-march-2024/

Thailand assisted in transferring around 900 Chinese nationals stuck in scam centers near the Myanmar border back to China. The operation involved transporting them from Myawaddy across the Thai border to Mae Sot, where they boarded 15 Chinese planes over three days. A hotel chef surrendered to police after shooting and wounding a security guard at a shopping mall in Nakhon Ratchasima. The guard had reported the chef had been drinking at work, costing him his job. The 30 yr old chef was charged with illegal possession of a gun and attempted murder. The mall was also the scene of a fatal shooting incident in 2020. In Kanchanaburi, authorities chased a truck carrying 94 illegal Myanmar workers who entered Thailand from Sangkhla. A pickup truck assisting them evaded police but lost control and stopped, the driver and passenger fled. The police pursued the larger truck for around 6 kilometers before the driver escaped by jumping into the River Kwai leaving 58 men, 31 women, and 5 children behind, all were taken to a police station for questioning. Prime Minister Thavisin says he supports a plan to build a new airport in the northeastern province of Kalasin. And a budget has been allocated for a feasibility study, the airport would be named Sarisin, which is a combination of two regions in the north east. Around the region Malaysia: Relatives of passengers on a Malaysia Airlines plane that mysteriously vanished 10 years ago pushed for a new search yesterday. The Boeing Flight MH370, carrying 239 people, disappeared from radar screens on Mar 8, 2014, while en route from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing. WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: sunny, 37C Bangkok: sunny partly cloudy, 35C Pattaya: Sunny, partly cloudy 33C Phuket and the south: Sunny, partly cloudy 33C Hua Hin: Sunny partly cloudy, winds light from the South 33C AQI yellow moderate, 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 2024-03-04 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

British Man Arrested for Allegedly Selling LSD and Ecstasy on Turtle Island in Surat Thani By Goongnang Suksawat PHOTO: Dailynews Surat Thani – A British man was arrested after he was found allegedly selling LSD, known locally as magic paper, and ecstasy on Turtle Island (Koh Tao) in Surat Thani. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321469-british-man-arrested-for-allegedly-selling-lsd-and-ecstasy-on-turtle-island-in-surat-thani/

British Man Arrested for Selling Drugs to Tourists on Koh Tao Picture: Daily News In a startling development on Koh Tao, authorities have apprehended a 36-year-old English man for clandestinely peddling 'Magic Paper' drugs, a highly dangerous form of narcotics, to unsuspecting tourists. According to reports on March 1st, Deputy Superintendent Thanawat Sukhakata, along with investigative teams from Koh Tao Police Station, successfully captured Andrew John Brett, 36, a British national. Brett stands accused of distributing Category 1 narcotics (Ecstasy and Magic Paper) with the intent to sell, reported Daily News. Upon his arrest, authorities seized approximately 0.54 grams of Ecstasy powder packaged in a plastic zip-lock bag, 25 Ecstasy pills, and 75 sheets of Magic Paper or blotting paper. Picture: Daily News Investigations revealed Brett's habitual pattern of supplying narcotics and Magic Paper to tourists frequenting an entertainment establishment. Police surveillance spanning over 5 months disclosed Brett's routine of leaving his accommodation at 8:00 PM daily to conduct drug transactions. Brett confessed to owning all seized drugs, pricing Ecstasy at 1,000 baht per pill and Paper High at 100 baht per sheet. Magic Paper, a newly emerging form of LSD, induces severe neurological effects when absorbed orally, prompting national rehabilitation institutions to caution tourists against its usage, as it may lead to severe neurological disturbances and potentially suicidal tendencies. -- ASEAN NOW 2024-03-04 - 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

Surat Thani – A British man was arrested after he was found allegedly selling LSD, known locally as magic paper, and ecstasy on Turtle Island (Koh Tao) in Surat Thani. The Koh Tao Police told The Phuket Express that on Friday (March 1st) they arrested a 36-year-old male British national. Seized from him were 75 magic papers (LSD), and 25 pills of ecstasy. The arrest came after police received a tip-off from a concerned citizen that a foreign man worked at a bar and was selling illegal drugs to tourists. The police followed up on the suspect for five months before the arrest. By Goongnang Suksawat PHOTO: Dailynews Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-03-04 - 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 Govt Approves 272 Million Baht Project to Tackle PM 2.5 Dust and Wildfires in 17 Northern Provinces By Kittisak Phalaharn On March 3rd, 2024, Ms. Kanika Aunjit, the Thai deputy government spokeswoman, held a press conference after the Thai cabinet meeting on approval of the annual budget for fiscal year 2024, with a total of 272 million baht assigned to a project to solve wildfire and smog problems and reduce PM 2.5 dust. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321468-thai-govt-approves-272m-baht-project-to-tackle-pm-25-dust-wildfires-in-17-n-provinces/

On March 3rd, 2024, Ms. Kanika Aunjit, the Thai deputy government spokeswoman, held a press conference after the Thai cabinet meeting on approval of the annual budget for fiscal year 2024, with a total of 272 million baht assigned to a project to solve wildfire and smog problems and reduce PM 2.5 dust. Meanwhile, 17 provinces in northern Thailand faced PM 2.5 problems at a concerning level as wildfires negatively affected locals in the past few years. The Thai government gave importance to the issues and raised the issue of PM 2.5 as a national agenda, remarked Kanika. The area of 17 northern provinces is the center of Thailand with a large number of citizens living there and is an economic hub. By Kittisak Phalaharn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-03-04 - 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

Foreigners Flock to Phuket Airport, Laden with Colorful Thai Souvenirs A viral sensation is sweeping across Thailand as TikTok user bumbie27 shares a video capturing the lively scene inside Phuket airport. The footage reveals a multitude of international tourists eagerly awaiting check-ins and collecting their luggage. Amidst the chaos, one striking similarity emerges – the abundance of vibrant, colorful baskets, picture Daily News. Picture: Daily News These baskets, often associated with traditional Thai baby clothing, are now repurposed to carry an array of tropical fruits back to their home countries. Thai netizens proudly proclaim this phenomenon as a display of "soft power" – a testament to Thailand's ability to captivate and charm without hefty investments. Picture: Daily News The online community praises both the endearing charm of foreign visitors and the entrepreneurial spirit of Thai vendors, who ingeniously elevate everyday items to boost business prospects. This display not only showcases Thailand's cultural allure but also opens up new avenues for economic growth without significant financial investment. -- ASEAN NOW 2024-03-04 - 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

Tourist's Lost Bag Found: Police Earn Gratitude Picture: Siam Rath Tourist Police Unit 3 (Thonburi) successfully recovered a lost bag, bringing joy to a young traveler. This incident marks a testament to the dedication of law enforcement in safeguarding visitors. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321465-tourists-lost-bag-found-police-earn-gratitude/

Tourist Police Unit 3 (Thonburi) successfully recovered a lost bag, bringing joy to a young traveler. This incident marks a testament to the dedication of law enforcement in safeguarding visitors. While patrolling key tourist areas, officers encountered Mr. Zheng Jiang, a 39-year-old Chinese national, at Ratchang Temple in Bangkok Noi. He reported his lost bag containing crucial documents and money, reported Siam Rath. Picture: Siam Rath Promptly, officers assisted him by providing directions and support. The bag was diligently searched for, and upon its retrieval, Mr. Zheng Jiang expressed immense gratitude towards the Tourist Police for their assistance. Lieutenant Colonel Prichaya emphasized the station's commitment to tourist safety, aligning with governmental policies to promote tourism. They encourage the public to utilize the emergency hotline (1155) for assistance, ensuring a seamless and secure travel experience. Top Picture: Siam Rath -- ASEAN NOW 2024-03-04 - 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