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Thai golf prodigy Patty Tavatanakit brings pride to her home country Photo : Paphangkorn Patty Tavatanakit In the illustrious world of golf, moments of triumph often reflect tales of perseverance, skill, and unwavering dedication. Patty Tavatanakit, the young Thai golf prodigy, epitomizes this narrative of resilience and achievement. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320951-thai-golf-prodigy-patty-tavatanakit-brings-pride-to-her-home-country/

In the illustrious world of golf, moments of triumph often reflect tales of perseverance, skill, and unwavering dedication. Patty Tavatanakit, the young Thai golf prodigy, epitomizes this narrative of resilience and achievement. With her victory on Sunday at the 2024 Honda LPGA Thailand in Pattaya, 24-year-old Patty not only secured her second-career victory on the tour but also etched her name in the annals of golfing history with a performance that resonated far beyond the fairways. For Patty or Paphangkorn, her official Thai name, the road to victory has been paved with challenges and milestones, each one shaping her journey towards greatness. The 2024 Honda LPGA Thailand marked her first win in 1,057 days, a testament to her unwavering determination and spirit. Her triumph also marked her second-straight victory on any professional tour, following her stellar performance at the Aramco Saudi Ladies International on the Ladies European Tour just a week earlier. In a sport where every stroke counts, Patty’s victory at the Honda LPGA Thailand is significant. Not only did she become the second Thai player to win this prestigious event, joining Ariya Jutanugarn in 2021, but she also became the 14th different winner of the tournament. Photo : Paphangkorn Patty Tavatanakit Full story: Thai PBS 2024-02-27 - 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’s State Audit Office to streamline large-scale government projects by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post In a recent development, the State Audit Office (SAO) of Thailand announced the inauguration of a new section dedicated solely to auditing large-scale government projects. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320948-thailand’s-state-audit-office-to-streamline-large-scale-government-projects/

In a recent development, the State Audit Office (SAO) of Thailand announced the inauguration of a new section dedicated solely to auditing large-scale government projects. This new initiative will come into effect from April 1, as per the announcement made by the State Audit Commission in the Royal Gazette last month. The SAO auditor-general, Prajuck Boonyoung, highlighted the necessity of this new section, citing the SAO’s constant struggle with auditing numerous financial reports. He noted that the evaluation of large government projects often takes more than a year, and in some cases, up to five years. The formation of this dedicated section will streamline the auditing process, making it more efficient, reported Bangkok Post. Once operational, the new section will focus on probing state mega initiatives. The Metropolitan Rapid Transit Orange Line, a project currently embroiled in disputes, and the Pheu Thai Party’s digital wallet scheme are among the first to be examined. The latter is the party’s flagship policy that promises to distribute 10,000 baht in digital money to 50 million individuals aged 16 and above. The scheme is currently under investigation by a government sub-committee. Another mega project on the list is the navy’s procurement of a submarine manufactured in China. As per the State Audit Commission announcement, the new SAO unit is mandated to audit governmental projects exceeding one billion baht along with public-private partnerships. The creation of this unit reflects the Thai government’s commitment to transparency and accountability in handling large-scale projects. In related news, Thailand’s Cabinet weighed the acquisition of a Chinese-built submarine following the Office of the Attorney-General’s approval of a Chinese engine. The decision aimed to address operational needs while safeguarding national interests and diplomatic relations. Discussions involved various governmental bodies, with the Royal Thai Navy considering extending the contract to gain ownership after the original agreement expired. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-02-27 - 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’s green utility tariff implementation faces hurdles from SMEs by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of iStock The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) of Thailand has estimated a two-year time frame for full implementation of the recently launched green utility tariff (GUT). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320947-thailand’s-green-utility-tariff-implementation-faces-hurdles-from-smes/

The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) of Thailand has estimated a two-year time frame for full implementation of the recently launched green utility tariff (GUT). This tariff, aimed at regulating renewable power prices, is a significant leap towards the global pushback on carbon-intensive manufacturing. However, businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises, and some state entities have expressed unpreparedness to adopt the GUT. A public hearing on the GUT revealed that while larger corporations recognise its importance, they are not entirely prepared for its implementation. This information was disclosed by the ERC secretary-general, Khomgrich Tantravanich, who was referencing findings from the public consultation involving over 4,000 participants, reported Bangkok Post. Conversely, businesses in the information technology and big data management sectors have welcomed the GUT. Shopping mall operators have also shown interest, acknowledging that clean energy usage is essential for brand building. In January, the ERC introduced the new tariff, divided into GUT 1 and GUT 2, to businesses, including power plant operators. GUT 1 applies to existing renewable power generating facilities, including six hydropower plants operated by the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand. On the other hand, GUT 2 applies to new clean power developers utilising various types of renewable energy. The current power tariff stands at 4.18 baht per kilowatt-hour (unit), with GUT 1 rates slightly higher. Meanwhile, GUT 2 rates are projected to fall within the range of 4.55-4.56 baht per unit. In comparison, other Southeast Asian countries have different rates for renewable power tariffs. For instance, Indonesia’s rates range from 3.4-4.5 baht per unit, while Malaysia’s rates stand between 4.5-4.9 baht per unit. With the increasing demand for renewable power, authorities in Thailand are pressed to clarify the GUT rates. This is particularly pertinent as manufacturers exporting certain products to the European Union are required to make their operations more environmentally friendly. This follows the EU’s enforcement of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) on October 1, 2023. The CBAM’s transitional phase mandates importers of iron and steel, aluminium, cement, fertilisers, electricity, and hydrogen to report the greenhouse gas emissions embedded in their imports without needing to make financial payments or adjustments. In related news, Thailand’s PTT Global Chemical Plc expanded its recycling efforts to include opaque plastic containers, part of its eco-friendly campaign targeting youth and consumer manufacturers. by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of iStock Source: The Thaiger 2024-02-27 - 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

Chinese economic stimulus expected to boost Thai tourism and economy by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Apichart Jinakul Analysts predict that China’s economic stimulus measures will spur an increase in Chinese tourists visiting Thailand, potentially driving the Thai economy to achieve a growth rate of at least 3% this year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320946-chinese-economic-stimulus-expected-to-boost-thai-tourism-and-economy/

Analysts predict that China’s economic stimulus measures will spur an increase in Chinese tourists visiting Thailand, potentially driving the Thai economy to achieve a growth rate of at least 3% this year. This is due to the expectation that Beijing’s financial initiatives will simultaneously boost the economies of both nations. Asia Plus Securities (ASPS) highlighted that China has rolled out several strategies to invigorate its economy, which will likely result in a rise in Chinese visitors to Thailand. Among these initiatives, the People’s Bank of China reduced its five-year loan prime rate by 0.25% to 3.95% in an attempt to support the property sector. In addition, the down payment requirement for first homes in the Hainan province was lowered from 25% to 20%, reported Bangkok Post. Further to this, the China Securities Regulatory Commission is set to introduce new policies designed to stabilise the stock market. As a result, Chinese stock markets are currently attracting significant fund inflows. “China has started to use economic stimulus measures, so its economy is projected to improve and its stock markets should rebound,” ASPS indicated. The Chinese Ministry of Culture and Tourism recorded that during the eight-day Lunar New Year festival, which concluded on Feb 17, there were 474 million domestic trips. This marked an increase of 19% from the 2019 Lunar New Year. Furthermore, tourism spending reached a total of 633 billion yuan, representing a rise of 8% compared to 2019. Chinese economic stimulus expected to boost Thai tourism and economy | News by Thaiger Thailand’s green utility tariff implementation faces hurdles from SMEs ASPS noted that “China’s consumption is recovering, which will support economic recovery. This should also boost Thailand’s economy, since China is Thailand’s largest trading partner and more Chinese tourists will visit Thailand.” With Thailand also set to launch additional economic stimulus measures, it is predicted that the nation’s 2024 GDP growth rate will reach between 2.5% and 3.0%. Forecasted GDP growth In a separate study, Maybank, the Malaysia-based investment banking group, acknowledged that despite China’s subdued economic growth, the Chinese tourism market seems to have overcome any hesitations about travelling to Thailand. This is due to visa waivers and the resumption of flights between the two countries, which have now reached 90% of pre-pandemic levels. by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Apichart Jinakul Source: The Thaiger 2024-02-27 - 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 Follow us on : twitter During the Lunar New Year holiday, which ended on Feb 16, overseas spending by Chinese tourists rose by over 140% compared to last year’s Chinese New Year. Among Southeast Asian destinations, the increase was even more significant, at over 580%, with Thailand leading the way, followed by Malaysia and Singapore. Maybank maintains its forecast for Thailand’s 2024 GDP growth at 3.2%, attributing this to the resurgence in tourism and a recovery in investment.

Thailand’s prime minister unfazed by triple prime minister’s scenario by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Chanat Katanya Despite the growing public opinion of a potential ‘triple prime ministers’ scenario, Thailand’s current Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin remains unfazed. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320943-thailand’s-prime-minister-unfazed-by-triple-prime-minister’s-scenario/

Despite the growing public opinion of a potential ‘triple prime ministers’ scenario, Thailand’s current Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin remains unfazed. He expressed confidence in his ability to execute his duties as the nation’s sole leader, regardless of differing perceptions. Speculation about the possible return of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra to politics has been rife since his parole release two weeks ago. Observers predict his influence could lead to a dual prime minister situation. The conjecture extends further to a triple prime minister scenario given Thaksin’s youngest daughter, Paetongtarn, holds significant roles within the Pheu Thai Party. Thaksin is considered the unofficial leader of this party, and Paetongtarn could potentially act as a covert premier, reported Bangkok Post. “The ‘double’ or ‘triple prime minister’ phenomenon is just a phrase. Everyone wants the country to move forward regardless of their political affiliations,” PM Srettha stated. Thavisin disclosed his openness to advice from former prime ministers, including Thaksin. However, the decision to implement any such advice would ultimately be his. He expressed no objection if his cabinet ministers chose to visit Thaksin given their longstanding acquaintance. In response to queries about a potential cabinet reshuffle discussed during a private meeting with Thaksin last Saturday, Thavisin chose to evade the question. “When the time comes, you’ll know. And I’ll be the one to forward the matter reshuffle for royal approval,” he declared. On the other hand, Pheu Thai leader Paetongtarn shared a candid snapshot on Instagram of herself and her siblings at their family’s Chan Song La residence on Sunday. The occasion was a dinner with Thaksin and their mother, Khunying Potjaman Na Pombejra. She described the day as memorable for the family and mentioned plans for another gathering with Thaksin’s grandchildren, sons-in-law, and daughter-in-law the following Sunday. In a Sunday interview, Paetongtarn reported an improvement in her father’s mental and physical health since his hospital release. She assured that he would be ready to receive visitors, particularly long-time supporters when the time was right. When questioned about the double prime minister scenario, Paetongtarn dismissed the topic. “Why don’t we drop this issue and let PM Srettha work in peace?” she suggested. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Chanat Katanya Source: The Thaiger 2024-02-27 - 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 explores long-term visa-free scheme with India to boost tourism by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Nutthawat Wicheanbut Tourism authorities in Thailand are pushing for a long-term reciprocal visa-free scheme with India, projected to become the world’s third-largest economy by 2027. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320942-thailand-explores-long-term-visa-free-scheme-with-india-to-boost-tourism/

Tourism authorities in Thailand are pushing for a long-term reciprocal visa-free scheme with India, projected to become the world’s third-largest economy by 2027. Somsong Sachaphimukh, the vice president of the Tourism Council of Thailand, highlighted the positive impact of the current temporary visa exemption for India, which has accelerated the Indian market’s growth. As of February 18, the Indian market accounted for the fifth-highest arrivals in Thailand, with a total of 258,269 tourists. According to Somsong, the extension of the visa exemption scheme for two years beyond its current expiration date of May 10, 2024, should maintain this momentum. The potential rise of India’s economy, projected to surpass Germany by 2027, presents a golden opportunity for Thailand to draw in more high-quality tourists, reported Bangkok Post. In the future, a mutual visa-free programme between the two countries should be deliberated, Somsong suggested. This arrangement could potentially boost tourism and trade, providing airlines with incentives to offer more flights. She highlighted the significant potential in the Indian market, largely due to its substantial young working population aged between 25 and 40, who account for approximately 40% of the total population. “Indian tourists typically travel abroad with family and spend a fortune on tourism, either hotel services or shopping,” Somsong noted. She added that an Indian tourist’s expenditure could range between 60,000 and 100,000 baht for roughly a week-long trip to Thailand. Additionally, the Indian market holds potential for business meetings, incentive trips, and wedding ceremonies, each potentially costing between 50 and 100 million baht. Despite flight resumption restrictions between Thailand and India to only six major Indian cities, the number of flights is on the rise. Somsong suggested the government consider attracting flights from India’s second-tier cities, such as Amritsar and Pune, which demonstrate strong demand and high purchasing power. She also advised the government to support charter flights to U-tapao Airport in Chonburi and Chiang Mai Airport, in addition to Phuket, and to enhance duty-free shopping at these airports. Challenges and Opportunities Another challenge that must be addressed, according to Somsong, is the lack of Indian restaurants in major cities. Suksit Suvunditkul, president of the southern chapter of the Thai Hotels Association, confirmed India’s position in the top five largest arrivals in Phuket. As of January, 25,524 Indian tourists had entered Phuket via its international airport, only surpassed by Russia and China, with the number of Indian visitors exceeding the 2019 figure by 15%. Suksit noted that the influx of Indian tourists has benefited hotels of all sizes, enabling many hoteliers to increase room rates during the high season. He predicted an occupancy rate of 90% in February, largely attributed to the Indian market and long-haul guests. by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Nutthawat Wicheanbut Source: The Thaiger 2024-02-27 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Tuesday 27 February 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320941-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-tuesday-27-february-2024/

State railways announced that construction of the Thai-Chinese high-speed train project could face a 2 year delay and additional costs of around 4 billion baht following if the decision to elevate an almost 8 kilometer section over communities near Nakhon Ratchasima goes ahead. The 270 kilometer high speed rail service linking nakhon ratchasima to bangkok has been divided into 14 construction contracts. Prime Minister Thavisin has instructed the ministry of Transport to speed up construction of the elevated highway along the Rama II Road south of the capital. A recent online survey found traffic congestion is putting off tourists from visiting Hua Hin, the PM also posted that pollution from construction also impacted on the health of local residents. The transport authority said it would ensure minimal disruption during the Songkran holiday. The airports of Thailand will employ an additional 800 staff while the immigration department will hire a further 200 officers to help speed up procedures at suvarnabum airport. The recruitment drive follows complaints by the prime minister over passenger delays, the airport aims to reduce immigration procedure times from around 1 hour to 30 minutes. Around the region Satellite images of the disputed Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea show a new floating barrier across its entrance, near where Philippine and Chinese ships have had frequent run-ins. The Chinese coast guard claimed to have driven off a Philippine vessel it says was “illegally intruding” into Beijing’s waters. The Philippines deployed it’s patrol vessel last week to provide fuel to Filipino fishermen in the area, Manila claims it’s activities there were lawful. WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: sunny, 37C Bangkok: sunny, partly cloudy 36C Pattaya: bright partly cloudy 33C Phuket and the south: sunny, light cloud 34C Hua Hin: Sunny, some light cloud…winds light from the South east 32C AQI Green to Yellow light to moderate Green clear, yellow light, 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 2024-02-27 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

Maybe Thailand should follow Korea and be more selective of expats/tourists In the wake of our recent discussion on the stringent immigration checks faced by Thai nationals abroad, a torrent of responses has unveiled a disconcerting undertone. It prompts us to ask maybe Thailand should go the path of Korea and be more selective of the visa-running, draft dodging, racist, mysoginistic sexpats we let in. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320940-maybe-thailand-should-follow-korea-and-be-more-selective-of-expatstourists/

In the wake of our recent discussion on the stringent immigration checks faced by Thai nationals abroad, a torrent of responses has unveiled a disconcerting undertone. It prompts us to ask maybe Thailand should go the path of Korea and be more selective of the visa-running, draft dodging, racist, mysoginistic sexpats we let in. The previous sentence was only a slight hyperbole. But here is a nice cross section of people that replied to our story. Thailand’s hospitality should not be mistaken for leniency towards those who disrespect the nation and its people. The derogatory commentary from these expatriates stands in stark contrast to the values of mutual respect and understanding that are integral to Thai society. It reflects not just a personal failing but a systemic issue where certain expatriates exploit Thailand’s welcoming nature while harboring and expressing contempt for its people. Views expressed are the author’s alone and not an official stance of the Thai Enquirer. Full story: THAI ENQUIRER 2024-02-27 RELATED TOPIC: Is S Korea racist towards Thais? Dehumanizing immigration ordeal says yes https://aseannow.com/topic/1320615-is-s-korea-racist-towards-thais-dehumanizing-immigration-ordeal-says-yes/ - 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

Mandatory electronic submission of payroll tax returns in Thailand from 2024 by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Vinit Visessuvanapoom, the director-general of the Revenue Department, has announced a new requirement for all employers to submit payroll tax returns electronically. The move is part of an effort to prevent fraudulent tax return forms. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320939-mandatory-electronic-submission-of-payroll-tax-returns-in-thailand-from-2024/

Vinit Visessuvanapoom, the director-general of the Revenue Department, has announced a new requirement for all employers to submit payroll tax returns electronically. The move is part of an effort to prevent fraudulent tax return forms. The director-general highlighted that before the department’s notification on income tax No.438, the electronic submission was voluntary. However, starting from January 1, 2024, all tax return forms for personal income tax withheld by employers (CIT 50 form) must be filed via the department’s electronic system, reported Bangkok Post. The objective behind this initiative is to provide a convenient approach for individuals, especially those with multiple income streams, to verify their income information. This can be done through the “My Tax Account” system, which will be available for filing personal income tax returns from January 1, 2024, to March 31, 2025. Vinit emphasised the benefits of online tax filing. Employers will no longer need to maintain paper forms, thus eliminating storage costs. More importantly, it should prevent fraudulent tax refund requests and ensure accurate tax reporting by preventing employers from overwithholding. The Revenue Department’s goal is to centralise all information related to personal income tax in the My Tax Account system. This will make it easier for individual taxpayers to verify the eligibility of their deductions. However, the director-general conceded that some information cannot yet be linked through the online system. This includes provident funds, which employers deduct from employees’ income and send to fund managers. In the previous year, around 11.4 million tax return forms for personal income tax were submitted, with 96% submitted via electronic channels. Four million people filed for tax returns. By February 5, approximately 2.1 million forms had been submitted. This figure is an increase from the 1.7 million forms submitted during the same period last year. In related news, Thailand aimed to boost tourism by proposing the cancellation of duty-free shops for arrivals, along with tax reductions and streamlined VAT refund processes for tourists. by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-02-27 - 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

Trailer Truck Mishap: Wood Wings Scattered, No Injuries Picture: Siam Rath On February 26, 2024, at 12:16 p.m., news reporters reported a startling incident involving a white Isuzu trailer truck, license plate 70-4265 Trang, loaded with rubber wood wings, returning from the area of the red light intersection at Melon Garden - Elephant Factory (สวนแตง - โรงงานช้าง). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320937-trailer-truck-mishap-wood-wings-scattered-no-injuries/

Thai government seeks to mandate graphic warnings on alcohol products by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Taopiphop Limjittrakorn (Facebook) The Thai government is in the process of developing a new regulation, requiring producers of alcoholic beverages to feature large, graphic health warnings on their products, much akin to those found on cigarette packaging. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320938-thai-government-seeks-to-mandate-graphic-warnings-on-alcohol-products/

The Thai government is in the process of developing a new regulation, requiring producers of alcoholic beverages to feature large, graphic health warnings on their products, much akin to those found on cigarette packaging. This move, orchestrated by the Alcoholic Beverage Control Committee and the Department of Disease Control, has sparked criticism from alcohol producers and the tourism industry, who question its effectiveness in altering consumer behaviour. The public has until Thursday to voice their opinions on the proposed regulation via the Council of State’s website before the rule comes into effect 180 days after its publication in the Royal Gazette, reported Bangkok Post. According to the new regulation, the graphic warning will cover at least one-third of the container, accompanied by text warnings on the dangers of excessive drinking. Some examples include “Alcoholic beverages can cause cancer” and “Selling alcoholic beverages to people under 20 is punishable by imprisonment and a fine”. The new rule has faced opposition from Taopiphop Limjittrakorn, a Move Forward Party MP for Bangkok, who champions the liberalisation of rules on alcohol production. He argues that the regulation will not only fail to deter drinking but will also increase production costs for small-scale alcohol producers. Furthermore, Taopiphop believes that the health warnings will detract from the aesthetics of the containers’ unique designs. He said, “The designs of craft beer cans are made by artists, and they are like contemporary art. Health warnings and scary pictures will decrease their value.” He further stated, “There is no proof as to how effective the health warnings on beer cans would be, the same way it is unclear whether the warnings on cigarette packs actually reduced smoking.” Potential impact According to him, the new regulation, if approved, will affect all producers—large and small—but will disproportionately impact smaller players in the industry. He also highlighted concerns that the health warnings may violate an international trade agreement. Taopiphop suggested that if the public strongly opposes the regulation, it might cause policymakers to reconsider before finalising it. He also pointed out that current alcohol control laws and regulations are already extremely strict, and the government should prioritise enforcing them to prevent abuse and harm. Sanga Ruangwattanakul, president of the Khao San Road Business Association, also criticised the draft regulation, considering it a step backwards for the country that could affect sales of alcoholic beverages. Several netizens echoed similar sentiments, with some expressing that the new regulation will not impact drinkers but collectors of bottles or cans for their unique designs and brand labels. Presently, cans and bottles of alcohol feature a text warning, with many highlighting the dangers of drink-driving. by Mitch Connor Top Photo courtesy of Taopiphop Limjittrakorn (Facebook) Source: The Thaiger 2024-02-27 - 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

On February 26, 2024, at 12:16 p.m., news reporters reported a startling incident involving a white Isuzu trailer truck, license plate 70-4265 Trang, loaded with rubber wood wings, returning from the area of the red light intersection at Melon Garden - Elephant Factory (สวนแตง - โรงงานช้าง). At the time, there were cars waiting at the red light intersection. The driver attempted to maneuver the truck several times, causing the wooden wings loaded on the trailer to fall onto the road, scattering across the surface, reported Siam Rath. Picture: Siam Rath This led to a chaotic scene, with cars and motorcycles parked at the nearby red light intersection being scattered. Fortunately, the fallen wooden wings landed to the left side, sparing any damage to the vehicles waiting at the red light. After the incident, rescue personnel from Melon Garden rushed to aid in traffic management and coordinated efforts to clear the area. Another truck was brought in to assist in clearing the road, which took approximately 30 minutes. Picture: Siam Rath Upon inquiry, the driver of the trailer truck revealed that the rubber wood wings were loaded from a furniture factory in the southern region and were being delivered to a purchasing warehouse in Suphan Buri province. While returning, the ropes used to secure the wood broke, causing the incident. Inspection of the truck revealed the use of thin ropes after the original tarpaulin cover had been worn out, rendering them ineffective. Picture: Siam Rath Furthermore, several other trucks carrying wooden wings and logs were observed using similar inadequate securing methods. Some trucks only utilized thin tarpaulins, unlike others that employed thicker covers and tightly secured ropes to prevent wood from falling. Drivers who used proper covering expressed concern over safety, acknowledging the risks associated with poorly secured loads. Incidents involving fallen wood on the roads in Suphan Buri have become increasingly common. Most recently, on February 21, a large log fell from a truck onto Highway 340 near the provincial government center, resulting in a collision involving a sedan from the Bumrungrad College of Nursing. Authorities are urged to intensify efforts to enforce regulations to ensure the safety of road users. -- ASEAN NOW 2024-02-27 - 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

Fie photo for reference only Hungarian MPs have overwhelmingly ratified Sweden's bid to join Nato in a long-delayed vote which paves the way for the Nordic nation's membership. Sweden applied to join after Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Hungary had delayed approval accusing it of being hostile to it. But last week Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban said the two countries were now "prepared to die for each other". All Nato members are expected to help an ally which comes under attack. By Paulin Kola BBC News Full story: BBC 2024-02-27 - 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

Tourist Police Arrest Man for Theft and Drug Possession in Pattaya By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya —Pattaya Tourist Police arrested a Thai man for theft and possessing illegal drugs. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320929-tourist-police-arrest-man-for-theft-and-drug-possession-in-pattaya/

Pattaya —Pattaya Tourist Police arrested a Thai man for theft and possessing illegal drugs. The suspect, Mr. Sayan Chantawong, 44, was arrested on charges of theft and illegal possession of methamphetamine on February 25th, 2024, while he was walking near Thappraya Road. The arrest stemmed from an incident on February 22nd, when a nightclub owner reported his laptop, sound system, and other equipment stolen in Soi Jomtien 1. Following the report, officers from the Tourist Police Division 2 launched an investigation and identified Mr. Sayan, a resident of Udon Thani, as a suspect based on the victim’s description. Upon approaching him, officers observed suspicious behavior, prompting them to search his body that resulted in the discovery of illegal drugs. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-02-27 - 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