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Thailand news - A former police chief, along with plenty of other senior police and law officials, is being indicted over the long-running 'Boss' Yoovidya case, excessive PM2.5 smoke levels in Bangkok and northern Thailand, the Thai PM heads south for 'tourism' chats with local clerics, the big three food delivery apps are in fierce competition... what's your experience? Cobra Gold, the joint Thai-US military exercises, comes to town Elephants on the rampage, another perspective about Thailand's majestic giants. Tim Newton Today is a daily take on Thai and regional news and issues of interest to expats and foreign tourists.

Thamanat Prompow orders demolition of illicit resorts on Khao Yai farmland by Mitch Connor Thailand's Deputy Agriculture Minister Thammanat Prompao talks to reporters after a government cabinet meeting in Bangkok, Thailand September 10, 2019. REUTERS/Soe Zeya Tun Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister, Thamanat Prompow, has mandated the demolition of hotels and resorts erected on Sor Por Kor land around Khao Yai National Park, designated for agricultural use and granted to landless farmers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321053-thamanat-prompow-orders-demolition-of-illicit-resorts-on-khao-yai-farmland/

Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister, Thamanat Prompow, has mandated the demolition of hotels and resorts erected on Sor Por Kor land around Khao Yai National Park, designated for agricultural use and granted to landless farmers. The Minister’s mandate came as he made a pledge to rid the land of any illicit occupations. Thamanat Prompow announced yesterday that he has commissioned a fresh inspection of the Agricultural Land Reform Office (Alro) land surrounding the national park. This Khao Yai examination will be the precursor to a countrywide inspection of all additional Alro land sites, reported Bangkok Post. Minister Prompow issued a warning to those knowingly breaching the rules of land occupation. He advised them to voluntarily surrender the occupied plots to the Alro and spare themselves a visit from the authorities. He stated, “Don’t wait until the authorities come to you. Every single plot of such illegally occupied land will be seized and their Sor Por Kor documents revoked.” This initiative follows a recent accord struck between the Alro and the Department of National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) to resolve their disagreement over the ownership of land parcels near Khao Yai. The two entities have committed to the establishment of buffer zones between forest reserves and agriculturally designated land. The land conflict was triggered by allegations that many individuals holding Sor Por Kor land occupation documents had infringed on the national park’s land. The government’s policy to upgrade the Sor Por Kor land has led to the issuance of a new kind of land title deed for the claimed plots. In the meantime, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin expressed confidence that the land dispute would be resolved shortly once a new unified land map, currently in progress by the Alro, DNP, and the Royal Thai Survey Department (RTSD), is finalised. The RTSD has already completed the land survey, a necessary step prior to creating the new map for the contentious areas. The prime minister acknowledged the team’s diligent efforts, which have led to them being two weeks ahead of schedule. Once the map is ready, the Alro and DNP will ink a formal memorandum of understanding to collaborate in surveying the disputed land plots around Khao Yai once more, he added. by Mitch Connor TOP Picture: Thailand's Deputy Agriculture Minister Thammanat Prompao talks to reporters after a government cabinet meeting in Bangkok, Thailand September 10, 2019. REUTERS/Soe Zeya Tun Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-28 - 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: Thai Minister of Transport Announces Plans to Improve Public Transportation Before Songkran Festival By Kittisak Phalaharn At 9:00 AM, on February 27th, 2024, Mr. Suriya Juangroongruangkit, the Thai Minister of Transport, publicly revealed public transportation news to the press for the upcoming Songkran Festival, prompting relevant agencies to increase the frequency of trains, buses, and airlines. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321043-bangkok’s-eastern-and-central-bus-terminals-set-for-relocation/?do=findComment&comment=18726425

Thai Minister of Transport Announces Plans to Improve Public Transportation Before Songkran Festival By Kittisak Phalaharn At 9:00 AM, on February 27th, 2024, Mr. Suriya Juangroongruangkit, the Thai Minister of Transport, publicly revealed public transportation news to the press for the upcoming Songkran Festival, prompting relevant agencies to increase the frequency of trains, buses, and airlines. Suriya advised Thai people to plan traveling trips and buy tickets beforehand for this upcoming Songkran Festival whether by trains, buses, or planes. Recently, Suriya addressed the high domestic flight ticket price issue with the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) to consider a new formula in the calculation for flight costs. Suriya reportedly asserted that fare reductions would be implemented before the Songkran Festival. Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-02-28 - 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

BMW to establish first southeast Asian EV battery factory in Thailand by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post BMW Group Thailand has revealed plans to establish an electric vehicle (EV) battery factory in the country this year. This move is in response to China’s escalating EV investment and supply chains in Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321051-bmw-to-establish-first-southeast-asian-ev-battery-factory-in-thailand/

BMW Group Thailand has revealed plans to establish an electric vehicle (EV) battery factory in the country this year. This move is in response to China’s escalating EV investment and supply chains in Thailand. The factory, to be positioned in Rayong, will bolster the firm’s sales of battery EVs and plug-in hybrid EVs. The company’s president and CEO, Alexander Baraka, revealed that Thailand will be the first Southeast Asian country to house a BMW EV battery production facility. This follows the establishment of plants in China and Hungary. The decision to invest in battery manufacturing was spurred by China’s aggressive expansion of its EV investment and supply chains in Thailand, reported Bangkok Post. BMW Group Thailand sees the country as a potential export hub for battery production. The firm is also considering investing in EV production in Rayong, although this will depend on various factors including market demand and the global supply of semiconductors. The Thai EV market is witnessing rapid growth, fueled by government policies aimed at promoting the industry and positioning Thailand as a regional hub of EV production. Last week, the National Electric Vehicle Policy Committee approved cash grants for local EV battery cell manufacturers and promoted energy storage systems with financial support from the Competitiveness Enhancement Fund. This government policy has encouraged automotive companies, particularly from China, to invest in Thailand. This has prompted global manufacturers from Europe, the US, and Japan to adjust their strategies by offering cars at lower prices and improving their after-sales services. In 2021, BMW Group Thailand reported total car sales of 15,477 units, encompassing both BMW and Mini brands, marking a 4% increase from the previous year. Additionally, sales of BMW Motorrad motorcycles reached 1,079 units. “Our battery EVs gained a market share of 15.5% of sales in Thailand,” Baraka said. BMW Group Thailand is also monitoring the effect of the Red Sea conflict on marine logistics and global supply chains. Baraka noted that the conflict is causing some short-term impact on the company as it has delayed the shipping of some auto components to Asia. However, he reassured that their parent company can manage this situation effectively. by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-28 - 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

Powerhouse: Thaksin’s family mansion back at center of Thai politics By Thai PBS World’s Political Desk File photo : Ban Chan Song La Once synonymous with the Shinawatras’ political power, the family mansion of Ban Chan Song La made headlines again this month when it was chosen as former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s residence following his release on February 18. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321049-powerhouse-thaksin’s-family-mansion-back-at-center-of-thai-politics/

Once synonymous with the Shinawatras’ political power, the family mansion of Ban Chan Song La made headlines again this month when it was chosen as former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s residence following his release on February 18. Just a week after returning “home” for the first time in over 15 years, Thaksin received two important visitors at the mansion – former Cambodian prime minister Hun Sen on Wednesday and Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin on Saturday. Hun Sen said in a social media post that he and Thaksin “just reminisced about 32 years of friendship and did not talk about politics”. The Khmer strongman has relinquished leadership of the country to his son and is now chief adviser to Cambodia’s king. Srettha likewise maintained that he and Thaksin did not discuss politics during his private visit, adding that the ex-PM offered him moral support and asked him to look after his health. Analysts say the PM’s visit reflected Thaksin’s continued political power and underlined his status as the patriarch of the ruling Pheu Thai Party. Srettha, a property tycoon before entering politics, was among three Pheu Thai prime ministerial candidates in last year’s general election. Another was Thaksin’s youngest daughter, Paetongtarn, but Pheu Thai opted to nominate Srettha, who was elected Thailand’s 30th prime minister in a majority vote by Parliament. By Thai PBS World’s Political Desk File photo : Ban Chan Song La Full story: Thai PBS 2024-02-28 - 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 aims to become Southeast Asia’s leading halal hub by 2028 by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Apichart Jinakul The Thai government has greenlit plans to transform Thailand into a leading halal hub in Southeast Asia by 2028, with a goal to elevate the nation’s GDP by 1.2%, or approximately 55 billion baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321047-thailand-aims-to-become-southeast-asia’s-leading-halal-hub-by-2028/

The Thai government has greenlit plans to transform Thailand into a leading halal hub in Southeast Asia by 2028, with a goal to elevate the nation’s GDP by 1.2%, or approximately 55 billion baht. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, speaking after the cabinet meeting on Tuesday, disclosed the government’s intent to constitute a national halal industry committee and the Thai Halal Industry Centre. The aim is to bolster the global presence of Thai food products and goods, while simultaneously boosting tourism, reported Bangkok Post. In his dialogue with the King of Brunei and Malaysia’s prime minister, the possibility of co-developing a halal food centre emerged. The establishment of the industry committee and the halal centre is expected to invigorate the national economy. The global halal business market is valued at a whopping US$2.1 trillion, expanding at an average rate of 7.5% annually. Unfortunately, Thailand’s slice of this lucrative market has dipped to 2.7% from the 4.1% it held a decade ago. In the initial 11 months of 2023, Thailand’s export value of halal food products reached 217 billion baht, marking a year-on-year increase of 2.6%. Most of these exports were naturally halal food items, encompassing rice, grains and sugar cane. Presently, Thailand is home to 15,043 halal food producers and over 3,500 halal food establishments. “Thailand still has many opportunities based on our potential,” remarked PM Srettha. “The government is fully committed to establishing halal industry centres and expanding the halal product market, especially efforts to make Thailand a global halal kitchen.” However, Thailand’s journey to develop its halal product sector is strewn with challenges, as per Rudklao Suwankiri, the deputy government spokesperson. These hurdles include fragmented promotion across multiple agencies and a lack of accountability among agencies and halal standard certification units, which create barriers for entrepreneurs. The strategy to elevate Thailand as a hub for halal products by 2028 zeroes in on five product categories: food, fashion, pharmaceuticals and herbal products, cocoa, and services and tourism. The five-year plan is projected to bolster GDP by 1.2%, or about 55 billion baht, while generating an estimated 100,000 jobs annually. Rudklao further stated that the initiatives would be propelled by three key measures: fostering demand, supporting supply, and enhancing environmental standards, in addition to promoting investment in the halal industry. by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Apichart Jinakul Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-28 - 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

Black panther spotted in Thailand’s Kaeng Krachan national park by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (Facebook) A black panther sighting near Phanoen Thung in Thailand’s Kaeng Krachan National Park has been reported by the Department of National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321046-black-panther-spotted-in-thailand’s-kaeng-krachan-national-park/

A black panther sighting near Phanoen Thung in Thailand’s Kaeng Krachan National Park has been reported by the Department of National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP). The department disseminated photographs of the elusive animal on its Facebook page, sparking interest among wildlife enthusiasts. The images, captured by a tourist named Sith Naowanirut on February 25, were confirmed by park chief Mongkol Chaipakdee, who stated that the panther appeared unaffected by the tourist’s presence. According to Mongkol, the panther didn’t show signs of distress or aggression, but continued to roam the area before eventually merging back into the forest. The DNP estimates that approximately 10 panthers and leopards inhabit the Bang Krang-Phanoen Thung area, based on decade-long surveys. These big cats are generally non-aggressive towards humans, preferring to retreat into their natural habitat when encountered by humans, reported Bangkok Post. In a bid to promote safe wildlife viewing, the DNP advises visitors to remain inside their vehicles when they spot these animals. They are also encouraged to capture videos and photographs but are cautioned against making any noise or honking their horns to avoid startling the creatures and jeopardising their own safety. “The panther appeared undisturbed by the presence of the visitor or his vehicle and that it kept wandering around the area before disappearing into the forest,” said Park Chief, Mongkol Chaipakdee The sighting has sparked considerable interest among wildlife enthusiasts and has further bolstered the importance of maintaining and protecting natural habitats to ensure the survival of these magnificent creatures. In related news, Premchai Karnasuta, central figure in the infamous Black Panther case, was released from Thong Pha Phum prison, sparking renewed interest in the scandal. Known for his prominent role in Italian-Thai Development Public Company Limited, Premchai faced charges after being found in a restricted area with firearms and the carcass of a protected Black Panther. His release reignited public scrutiny over the case, which lasted over three years, drawing attention to environmental conservation and justice issues. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (Facebook) Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-28 - 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

Chiang Mai tops world’s most polluted cities due to rampant forest fires by Mitch Connor Photo taken from Chiang Mai Local Tour Chiang Mai, a province in northern Thailand, has been blanketed by worsening haze, catapulting it to the top of the list of the world’s ten most polluted cities. The thick smog is a direct consequence of forest fires that have been burning unabated for approximately two weeks. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321044-chiang-mai-tops-world’s-most-polluted-cities-due-to-rampant-forest-fires/

Chiang Mai, a province in northern Thailand, has been blanketed by worsening haze, catapulting it to the top of the list of the world’s ten most polluted cities. The thick smog is a direct consequence of forest fires that have been burning unabated for approximately two weeks. The Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (Gistda) detected a total of 1,420 hotspots on Monday alone. Of these, 193 were located in Chiang Mai. Satellite information revealed that the hotspots were distributed across various areas, with 490 in forest conservation zones, 375 in forest reserve areas, 237 in agricultural regions, 186 in land reform areas, and the remaining in community areas. Hotspots were not exclusive to Thailand. Cambodia was identified as having 2,489 hotspots, followed closely by Myanmar with 2,279, Laos with 1,210, and Vietnam with 365. The forest fires in Chiang Mai have shown no signs of abating, with fires currently blazing in Ob Luang National Park, Ob Tho, Mae Chaem, Ob Khan, and Doi Suthep-Pui. The wind has carried the dust and smoke into urban areas, exacerbating the haze situation. Kritsayam Khongsatree, the director of the 16th Conservation Management Office, stated that resources are being mobilised to combat a forest fire in Ob Luang, located in the Hot district. He issued a stern warning of legal action against individuals implicated in forest burning as five new hotspots have been detected. The fires have continued to rage in the province for over two weeks. To quell the flames, over 220 officials were deployed on Monday night to battle the fire at Doi Pha Dam in Ob Luang National Park. The fire, which started on February 22, has already caused damage to about 220 rai of land. Challenges in Fire Suppression Touching on the issue of forest fires, Chiang Mai’s Deputy Governor, Tosapon Puanudom, stated that most fires are created by humans. He stressed that attempts to extinguish them have been hampered by budget limitations and regulations. The responsibility of combating forest fires has been transferred to local administrative bodies. However, a lack of funds and rain has made the task more daunting. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin urged the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry on Tuesday to form a team to collaborate with Cambodia in mitigating cross-border haze. He mentioned that the Foreign Affairs Ministry has already informed the Cambodian government about the hotspots in its country and dispatched a team to discuss the establishment of a joint team. The situation remains grim as seven northern provinces recorded extremely unsafe levels of PM2.5 pollutants yesterday morning. The levels ranged from 92.7µg/m³ to 75.7µg/m³, causing further concern for the inhabitants of these regions. by Mitch Connor Photo taken from Chiang Mai Local Tour Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-28 - 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’s eastern and central bus terminals set for relocation by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of iTravel Channel (YouTube) Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit announced plans on Tuesday to move the Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai) and the Bangkok Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2) to the Krung Thep Abhiwat Central Terminal Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321043-bangkok’s-eastern-and-central-bus-terminals-set-for-relocation/

Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit announced plans on Tuesday 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 the proposed new location, both stations will be housed within a multi-storey building, where different routes are catered for on each floor. An air-conditioned food centre will also be situated in the main hall. The timeline for the planned relocation has not yet been confirmed, reported Bangkok Post. Contrarily, the Mo Chit 2 Terminal in Chatuchak is currently under renovation, with some sections closed off. The upgrade, encompassing safety measures and a security system, is anticipated to be finished within one and a half years. However, the terminal is expected to be operational for Songkran travellers by April. Suriya also addressed delays on Rama II Road construction in Hua Hin. He has instructed the Department of Rural Roads to implement a scorebook system with contractors to better manage construction deadlines. Contractors who consistently underperform will be barred from further collaboration with the ministry and the Department of Rural Roads. In a previous mandate, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin ordered the Transport Ministry to hasten the long-overdue construction following an online survey that suggested traffic congestion along Rama II Road dissuaded tourists from visiting the resort town of Hua Hin. Suriya explained that the construction project, consisting of ten contracts, is now slated to be completed in June 2025, extending the original January deadline. The adjustment in the completion date is due to financial difficulties experienced by the contractor amidst the pandemic and the Department of Rural Road’s regulation that permits construction only at night to avert traffic congestion. In related news, Bangkok’s Mo Chit 2 bus terminal closed its arrival area on March 1 to enhance safety and curb illegal motorcycle taxis. Improvements included upgrades to facilities and transport services. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of iTravel Channel (YouTube) Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-28 - 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 - Wednesday 28 February 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321042-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-wednesday-28-february-2024/

Thai Prosecutors announced they will charge a former national police chief and seven others with impeding legal action against Vorayuth Yoo-vidhya, heir to the Red Bull energy drink family, who was accused of killing a Bangkok police officer in a hit-and-run in 2012. The former police chief was charged with abuse of power in order to aid an individual to avoid prosecution. The National Anti-Corruption Commission last year accused him in tampering with evidence by altering the record of the speed of the car that Vorayuth was allegedly driving at the time of the accident. The haze smothered Chaing Mai yesterday as the city topped the list of the 10 most polluted cities in the world, due to forest fires that have been raging for several weeks. The director of the local Conservation Management Office, said resources had been mobilised to combat forest fires and warned of legal action against those involved in forest fires. The minister for agriculture co operatives announced yesterday that hotels and resorts built on land around Khao Yai National Park, which have been designated to landless farmers for agricultural purposes, must be demolished and the land seized, New inspections will be conducted at Khao Yai and and at national parks nationwide. The minister stressed that Every single plot of illegally occupied land will be seized. Around the region Indonesia’s media outlets have welcomed a new regulation requiring digital platforms to pay them for content, which they hope will raise revenue. The new publisher’s rights regulation takes effect in August and aims to level the playing field between the media and big tech firms, that have taken lion’s share of advertising revenue. Indonesia is the first country in Asia to introduce such a law, which has been adopted by Australia, Canada and several European countries. WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: sunny, 37C Bangkok: cloudy with rain, 34C Pattaya: cloudy with thundery showers 32 Phuket and the south: sunny, light cloud 33C Hua Hin: Sunny, some cloud…winds light from the South east 32C AQI Green to yellow moderate, Orange High Green clear, yellow moderate, Orange High, Red unhealthy. Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, Royal Coast Review, Kulsawek Sawekwannakorn, Thainewsroom.com, The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Windy.com. Wunderground.com -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-02-28 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

Heatwave alert in Thailand with temperatures hitting 39 degrees Celsius by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of iStock Thailand’s Meteorological Department has issued a weather warning forecasting sweltering conditions across the country today, with peak temperatures expected to soar between 37 and 39 degrees Celsius. Despite the heat, there is a possibility of isolated thunderstorms during the afternoon, with some regions experiencing light rainfall. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321041-heatwave-alert-in-thailand-with-temperatures-hitting-39-degrees-celsius/

Thailand’s Meteorological Department has issued a weather warning forecasting sweltering conditions across the country today, with peak temperatures expected to soar between 37 and 39 degrees Celsius. Despite the heat, there is a possibility of isolated thunderstorms during the afternoon, with some regions experiencing light rainfall. The department’s 24-hour forecast indicates that a low-pressure area resulting from intense heat is currently enveloping the North, while southerly and south-easterly winds are prevailing over the upper part of Thailand. This combination of weather patterns is causing hot conditions with potential afternoon thunderstorms. In light of this, the public is advised to be cautious of the dangers posed by these storms during this period, reported KhaoSod. Northern region Hot weather is accompanied by potential thunderstorms in approximately 10% of the area, particularly in provinces such as Tak, Uttaradit, and Phitsanulok. The lowest temperatures here are expected to range from 17 to 24 degrees Celsius, with the highest between 36 and 39 degrees Celsius. The Northeastern part is also experiencing heat and possible thunderstorms, with lows of 20 to 24 degrees Celsius and highs of 33 to 37 degrees Celsius. Central region The area will have similar conditions with 10% chance of thunderstorms, mainly in Kanchanaburi and Ratchaburi, where temperatures are forecasted to be between 24 to 25 degrees Celsius at the lowest and 36 to 38 degrees Celsius at the highest. The Eastern provinces, including Chonburi, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat, are hot with potential afternoon thunderstorms affecting 10% of the area. Here, the sea is expected to have waves less than one meter high, increasing to over one meter in stormy areas. South (East Coast) The weather on the east coast is expected to be hot during the day with a 20% chance of thunderstorms in areas like Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, and Nakhon Si Thammarat. The temperatures are slightly cooler, with lows of 23 to 25 degrees Celsius and highs of 32 to 36 degrees Celsius. For the sea conditions, from Chumphon upwards, waves are around one meter high, while from Surat Thani downwards, waves can reach one to two meters in stormy conditions. South (West Coast) Similarly, the west coast is experiencing hot weather with some light rain. The lowest temperatures are between 23 to 26 degrees Celsius, with the highest ranging from 34 to 38 degrees Celsius. The sea has waves of around one meter, exceeding this height near storm areas. Bangkok and vicinity Bangkok and the surrounding areas are not exempt to the heat, with possible thunderstorms in the afternoon. The temperature is expected to drop to 26 to 27 degrees Celsius at the coolest and rise to 35 to 37 degrees Celsius at its peak. Residents and visitors across Thailand are reminded to stay hydrated, seek shade during the hottest parts of the day, and be prepared for sudden weather changes, particularly those that could lead to thunderstorms. Stay updated on the Thailand weather news with The Thaiger. by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of iStock Source: The Thaiger 2024-02-28 - 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 aims to become Southeast Asia’s top hub for international concerts by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of coldplay (Instagram) Aiming to transform Thailand into Southeast Asia’s leading festival and international concert hub, the government plans to engage with top record companies and concert organisers for global artists. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321040-thailand-aims-to-become-southeast-asia’s-top-hub-for-international-concerts/

Aiming to transform Thailand into Southeast Asia’s leading festival and international concert hub, the government plans to engage with top record companies and concert organisers for global artists. Discussions will focus on the challenges and advantages of hosting such large-scale events in Thailand and how conditions can be optimised. Tourism and Sports Minister Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol emphasised that the government’s objective is not to offer financial support but to understand the needs of the organisers regarding facilitation. This understanding will help the organisers and artists’ crews and enhance the overall experience of concertgoers, reported Bangkok Post. At a recent forum in Bangkok, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin highlighted Singapore’s successful strategy to secure the exclusive Southeast Asian performance of Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour. He suggested Thailand could benefit from adopting a similar approach. While the Culture Ministry and Singapore Tourism Board confirmed their collaborative efforts with concert organisers, they did not disclose the financial details of the arrangement. Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol also noted that infrastructure investment might be necessary, particularly in the case of an indoor concert hall, a facility which Thailand currently lacks. Companies such as Tero Entertainment, Warner Music Group, and Sony Music Entertainment, which have vast industry experience, would be involved in the discussions. The government’s focus is not solely on A-list artists but also on attracting artists of all scales. The aim is to capitalise on Thailand’s numerous tourist destinations, allowing fans to explore the country before or after concerts. Chakkarin Aungpratip, sales director of BITEC Management, and operator of Bitec Hall, highlighted that attracting international artists or global promoters to host large-scale concerts can stimulate the economy. Concertgoers, similar to Mice travellers, tend to spend three times more than general tourists. However, despite Thailand’s strong air travel connectivity, the current public transportation system within cities poses a challenge. Thailand’s appeal as a top destination for international tourists, thanks to its renowned tourist attractions, Thai cuisine, and a wide range of accommodations, is another advantage. The concert business is expected to see steady growth this year, driven by the fan club segment. In anticipation, Bitec is focusing on concerts catering to the Gen X and Gen Y markets with substantial spending power. They are planning to launch a new 5,000-seat hall across 7,000 sq m in June 2024 to host more concerts from this year. by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of coldplay (Instagram) Source: The Thaiger 2024-02-28 - 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

Udon Thani Rescue Team Saves 1-Year-Old Trapped in Car Picture: Siam Rath On February 27, 2024, at 4:00 PM, news reporters stated that the Udorn Sawang Metha Dhammasathan Foundation rescue team in Udon Thani Province received a report from villagers requesting assistance for a child trapped in a car at Khlong Thom Market. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1321039-udon-thani-rescue-team-saves-1-year-old-trapped-in-car/

On February 27, 2024, at 4:00 PM, news reporters stated that the Udorn Sawang Metha Dhammasathan Foundation rescue team in Udon Thani Province received a report from villagers requesting assistance for a child trapped in a car at Khlong Thom Market. Upon receiving the distress call, Udon Thani Rescue Team, skilled in car door opening, swiftly arrived to unlock the door of a Chevrolet Colorado, license plate number 8858, finding young Junie, aged 1, inside. The child remained calm despite the engine running and the air conditioning on. However, shortly after their arrival, Junie began crying, prompting her immediate rescue, reported Siam Rath. Picture: Siam Rath Meanwhile, the grandparents, visibly distressed, continuously called out to their grandchild. Villagers from Khlong Thom Market rushed to assist. Using a bamboo stick approximately 2 meters long, they managed to unlock the door within about 20 minutes, safely rescuing the child, while the grandmother eagerly embraced her grandchild. Picture: Siam Rath Mrs. Som, 58, Junie's grandmother, explained that they had come to the market to sell goods, with her husband driving. Upon arrival, she went shopping, assuming her husband would look after Junie. Picture: Siam Rath Upon returning, she found herself locked out with Junie inside, prompting her to call emergency services. She speculated that Junie might have accidentally activated the central locking system, leading to the lockout, thankfully with the air conditioning on and assistance swiftly provided. Top Picture: Siam Rath -- ASEAN NOW 2024-02-28 - 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