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On February 24th, 2024, Mr. Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth, the President of Bangkok Airways Public Co., Ltd., publicly revealed a continuous recovery rate of the aviation industry in the 4th quarter of 2023, as a result of Chinese visa exemptions and long holidays. The overall performance of Bangkok Airways in 2023 was in a positive direction and had a total income of 21 billion baht increasing from the previous year (2022) by 70.6%. Moreover, it resulted from an increasing number of passengers using Bangkok Airways and had an average ticket price of 3,756 baht per trip. In 2023, Bangkok Airways had an operating profit of 3 billion baht. They had income from sales and services in the proportion of income from businesses related to the airport business of 4 billion baht. Meanwhile, Bangkok Airways had total expenses of 18 billion baht increasing from the previous year (2022) by 35.4%, with the majority being sales costs. By Kittisak Phalaharn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-02-26 - 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 Adjusts Excise Taxes on Local Liquor to Boost Tourism, Mixed Reactions from Industry By Kittisak Phalaharn On February 23rd, 2024, Mr. Ekniti Nitithanprapas, the Director General of the Excise Department, publicly announced the adjustment of excise taxes and duties structures on local liquor effective on February 23rd to promote Thailand as a central hub for tourism. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320835-thailand-adjusts-excise-taxes-on-local-liquor-to-boost-tourism/

On February 23rd, 2024, Mr. Ekniti Nitithanprapas, the Director General of the Excise Department, publicly announced the adjustment of excise taxes and duties structures on local liquor effective on February 23rd to promote Thailand as a central hub for tourism. The effective date started February 23rd to December 31st, 2024 as a short-term measure to support entertainment service providers affected by COVID-19 in order to recover, promote, and create job opportunities for locals, stated Ekniti. Additionally, the Excise Department would raise the level of tax payments, using digital technology, and advocate Thai laws and regulations to international standards,” Ekniti said. The adjustment on excise taxes and duties structures on local liquor and alcoholic beverages would make the price more appropriate, and international. The price incentive measures would bolster Thailand’s tourism and tourist consumption rates in purchasing Thai food and beverages as a central hub, said Ekniti. However, Mr. Thanakorn Kuptajitti, the adviser to the Thai Alcohol Beverage Business Association, stated that the new tax reduction would only benefit a certain group of people. By Kittisak Phalaharn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-02-26 - 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

Newborn rescued from bag in Nakhon Ratchasima cornfield by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A solar panel installer made a startling discovery of an infant’s hand protruding from a bag, leading to the rescue of an abandoned newborn in a cornfield hut in Nakhon Ratchasima province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320834-newborn-rescued-from-bag-in-nakhon-ratchasima-cornfield/

A solar panel installer made a startling discovery of an infant’s hand protruding from a bag, leading to the rescue of an abandoned newborn in a cornfield hut in Nakhon Ratchasima province. A 36 year old man was the first to find the baby boy and immediately reported the matter, which prompted a swift response from local authorities and healthcare workers. In the middle of a cornfield, well before reaching the Nong Lak Sila community in the Sida subdistrict of Nakhon Ratchasima Province, a shocking scene unfolded when a blue shoulder bag revealed the hand of a newborn baby. The locals and authorities were alerted to the harrowing discovery, prompting an urgent investigation into the circumstances that left the baby in such a precarious situation. Upon being notified, law enforcement officers and rescue teams rushed to the scene. They found the baby boy, his tiny form wrapped in adult-sized clothing, lying inside the blue bag, miraculously still alive. Quick coordination ensured the infant was transported to Sueng Sang Hospital for immediate care, reported KhaoSod. The man who first stumbled upon the baby, Anocha Chuai, recounted the events leading to the discovery. Around 5pm, he had been hired by Theerawat Pimthong to install solar-powered light posts on the latter’s property. Anocha had agreed to a fee of 300 baht and set off on his motorcycle to carry out the installation. At approximately 5.30pm, he heard the cries of a baby coming from a hut within the cornfield. Approaching the source, he spotted the partially unzipped blue bag and the baby’s hand reaching out. Shocked, Anocha quickly opened the bag to find the infant boy inside and alive. He immediately returned to inform Theerawat and to seek help from Sueng Sang Hospital and the police. Medical staff at the hospital estimated the baby to be about 39 weeks old. He is now under the care of the hospital’s medical team and is reported to be safe and without any health issues. Meanwhile, the investigative team from Sueng Sang Police Station is conducting a thorough search in the area. The investigation is centred on finding any recent pregnancies or births among locals or foreign workers, and whether any individuals fitting this description have mysteriously disappeared. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-26 - 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

Filipino DJ Killed in Tragic Motorbike Collision with Electric Pole in Patong By Kittisak Phalaharn Patong—At 4:06 AM, on February 25th, 2024, Patong police officers received a fatal accident report of a Filipino DJ on a motorbike colliding with an electric pole in front of Aspery Hotel on Patong Beach Road, Kathu, Phuket. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320833-filipino-dj-killed-in-tragic-motorbike-collision-with-electric-pole-in-patong/

Patong—At 4:06 AM, on February 25th, 2024, Patong police officers received a fatal accident report of a Filipino DJ on a motorbike colliding with an electric pole in front of Aspery Hotel on Patong Beach Road, Kathu, Phuket. In response to the accident, Patong police and emergency services were dispatched to investigate and found the body of a Filipino man with a grievous head wound. A red-gray motorbike was found nearby having collided with an electric pole, according to the police report. Consequently, Patong emergency services transferred the body to Patong Hospital to determine the exact cause of death. By Kittisak Phalaharn Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-02-26 - 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

No Foreign Mafia in Phuket, says Phuket Governor By Goongnang Suksawat Phuket –The Phuket governor has confirmed, according to him, that there is no foreign mafia in Phuket. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320832-no-foreign-mafia-in-phuket-says-phuket-governor/

Phuket –The Phuket governor has confirmed, according to him, that there is no foreign mafia in Phuket. The issue came to light after local politicians expressed concern on Thai social media about foreigners who have lived in Phuket for a long time and may behave as a mafia. The Phuket governor Sophon Suwannarat told the Phuket Express “Anyone who stays in Phuket and does illegal activities or operates illegal businesses must face the highest legal penalties.” “Recently, foreigners have been arrested at the Phuket International Airport and at the famous Naka Weekend Market Wichit. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-02-26 - 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

Drunk Man Jumps in Front of Train in Pattaya, Suffers Minor Injuries By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya — A train driver in Pattaya narrowly avoided colliding with a drunk pedestrian on the tracks early Sunday morning, resulting in minor injuries for the individual. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320831-drunk-man-jumps-in-front-of-train-in-pattaya-suffers-minor-injuries/

Pattaya — A train driver in Pattaya narrowly avoided colliding with a drunk pedestrian on the tracks early Sunday morning, resulting in minor injuries for the individual. At approximately 1:00 AM on February 25th, the Sawangboriboon Thammasathan Foundation responded to a report of a pedestrian-train collision near Soi Khao Talo Nong Krabok in Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi. Upon arrival, rescue workers found a 31-year-old man identified as Mr. Sujinda Saetae lying beside a stationary train engine numbered 5235. Mr. Sujinda suffered minor injuries, including back pain. He was assessed by rescue personnel and transported to a local hospital for further medical attention. Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-02-26 - 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

Honest Pattaya Man Returns Lost Wallet By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: TMN Cable TV Pattaya Pattaya — A Thai man in Pattaya returned a lost wallet containing cash and personal documents to the Pattaya police on Saturday, February 24th. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320830-honest-pattaya-man-returns-lost-wallet/

Pattaya — A Thai man in Pattaya returned a lost wallet containing cash and personal documents to the Pattaya police on Saturday, February 24th. Mr. Thanthai Khieokaew, 31, discovered a lost wallet near Pattaya Third Road, close to Tony’s Gym. He immediately took the effort to report the find to the Pattaya Police Station. Mr. Thanthai filed a complaint with Pol. Lt. Anirut Jaehro and handed over the wallet along with its contents. The wallet contained cash amounting to 840 baht and various essential documents. By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: TMN Cable TV Pattaya Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-02-26 - 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 Prime Minister’s Surprise Airport Inspection Unveils Slow Services, Vows Improvement By Kittisak Phalaharn On February 24th, 2024, Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin posted a message on X regarding an unofficial evening visit to Suvarnabhumi Airport without prior announcements to inspect airport services. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320829-thai-prime-minister’s-surprise-airport-inspection-unveils-slow-services-vows-improvement/

On February 24th, 2024, Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin posted a message on X regarding an unofficial evening visit to Suvarnabhumi Airport without prior announcements to inspect airport services. Srettha stated that he visited Suvarnabhumi Airport in the evening when there are many passengers. Srettha reportedly timed the airport service time from the checking-in system to the immigration checkpoint and thoroughly inspected all the services which were still reported as slow by many visitors and tourists. In response to the airport services, Srettha instructed relevant agencies to find solutions for spending less time in the checking-in process. Srettha also stated that he would perform a surprise inspection again by himself. By Kittisak Phalaharn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-02-26 - 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 businesswoman forgives debts, returns land in Chumphon by Samantha Rose Picture courtesy of Sanook A Thai businesswoman captured hearts by forgiving debts and returning land titles to two of her debtors without demanding repayment. A 37 year old woman has demonstrated an extraordinary act of kindness in Chumphon province, amidst the financial struggles brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320828-thai-businesswoman-forgives-debts-returns-land-in-chumphon/

A Thai businesswoman captured hearts by forgiving debts and returning land titles to two of her debtors without demanding repayment. A 37 year old woman has demonstrated an extraordinary act of kindness in Chumphon province, amidst the financial struggles brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic. Onanong Kanpat, known as Nong On, who runs a business trading business in fresh kratom leaves, decided to cancel the debts after reflecting on her difficult past and the current hardships faced by her clients. One debtor, an elderly man with chronic illness and substantial medical bills, was relieved of his debt, which had been secured against his approximately four-acre land valued at over 1 million baht. The man had been unable to make payments for six months, putting him at risk of losing his property. The other debtor, who shared Onanong’s profession but was only operating on a smaller scale within the provinces of Chumphon and Ranong, had faced numerous setbacks, including being defrauded multiple times. With a young child to care for and struggling to afford even milk, this debtor’s plight resonated deeply with Onanong, prompting her decision to nullify the debt. Onanong’s generous act was not without sacrifice. She curbed her expenses, foregoing beauty treatments, luxury clothing, and expensive accessories, saving enough money to cover the cost of cancelling the debts while not affecting her business capital. This approach allowed her to provide these debtors with a fresh start without compromising her financial stability, reported Sanook. The story of Onanong’s generosity has spread rapidly, bringing her praise and admiration, as well as numerous requests for financial assistance from strangers. While she expresses a desire to help, Onanong emphasises the importance of self-reliance and has encouraged those seeking aid to first look to their means or support from family and friends. Onanong credits her grandparents, who raised her since she was orphaned, for instilling in her the values of hard work, self-sufficiency, and compassion for others. Her late grandfather taught her to extend a helping hand to fellow humans when possible, while her grandmother, still alive at 87 years old and paralysed for over 30 years, advised her to strive independently without accumulating debt. Looking ahead, Onanong plans to continue her philanthropic efforts, potentially using future profits from her kratom business to fund public projects like road lighting, road repairs, and hospital support. by Samantha Rose Top Picture courtesy of Sanook Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-26 - 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

Tragic three-car crash in Chon Buri kills two, injures five by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A catastrophic collision involving three vehicles in Chon Buri province claimed the lives of two individuals and left five seriously injured in the early hours of today, February 25. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320827-tragic-three-car-crash-in-chon-buri-kills-two-injures-five/

A catastrophic collision involving three vehicles in Chon Buri province claimed the lives of two individuals and left five seriously injured in the early hours of today, February 25. The accident, which saw vehicles mangled beyond recognition, occurred on the Don Hua Lo – Sattahip route near the Sony intersection in the Don Hua Lo sub-district. Authorities rushed to the scene at approximately 1.30am following reports of the severe crash. The emergency teams, including medical personnel from Chon Buri Hospital and rescuers from the Thamratsameemaneerat Foundation, discovered a chaotic tableau. A black Toyota Revo with license plate บห 5602 from Phetchabun and a blue Mitsubishi Triton with license plate ยฉ 601 from Chon Buri were the primary vehicles involved, both having sustained significant front-end damage. In the immediate aftermath, medical first responders administered on-site emergency care to the injured before transferring them to Chon Buri Hospital. Among the injured was 25 year old Watchara Somphunga, who was driving a white Isuzu D-Max with license plate จห 206 from Chon Buri. His vehicle was struck and damaged in the collision. Watchara recounted that while following the blue pickup, a black vehicle suddenly emerged and collided with the blue truck, which appeared to attempt an evasive manoeuvre but failed, subsequently impacting Watchara’s vehicle, reported KhaoSod. Sarawut Usadech, a 39 year old passenger in the black Toyota Revo, revealed that three people were in their vehicle when the accident occurred. He was sitting beside the driver as they were heading towards Wat Don. The exact dynamics of the collision were unclear to the passengers at the time of the impact. Rescuers reported that the blue pickup was carrying four occupants, two of whom suffered critical injuries, including broken necks, with one succumbing to their injuries later. All three passengers in the black vehicle sustained serious injuries. Initially, the identities of the deceased and the badly injured were unknown due to a lack of identification. The police are awaiting the opportunity to further interview the injured survivors. Additionally, they plan to review footage from CCTV cameras near the accident site to determine the cause of the crash and to proceed with any necessary legal action. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-26 - 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

High-profile online gambling case sees 8 police officers reassigned by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Amarin TV A high-profile online gambling case involving Suchanun Minnie Sucharitchinsri has led to the temporary reassignment of eight linked officers. National Police Chief Torsak Sukvimol sanctioned the move to prevent any potential interference with the ongoing investigation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320826-high-profile-online-gambling-case-sees-8-police-officers-reassigned/

A high-profile online gambling case involving Suchanun Minnie Sucharitchinsri has led to the temporary reassignment of eight linked officers. National Police Chief Torsak Sukvimol sanctioned the move to prevent any potential interference with the ongoing investigation. A spokesman for the police, Siriwat Deepo revealed that the order for the transfer was signed by Torsak yesterday, February 24. The transferred officers will be relocated to the Royal Thai Police’s central office, and replacements will be assigned for the duration of the investigation. The affected officers include Namkiat Theerarotjanaphong from the Metropolitan Police Bureau, Phakphum Phitsamai, Deputy Commander of Investigation of Provincial Police Region 4, and Khemarin Pisamai, Chief of Chanthaburi Immigration Police. Others are Aris Kuprasertrat, Immigration Chief of Chachoengsao, Kharit Priyakate, Deputy Superintendent of Crime Suppression at Phra Samut Chedi station, Chanont Aumthon, Crime Suppression Inspector at Phra Pradaeng station, Nattawut Watwaew, Patrol Group Commander at the Police Traffic Division, and Apisit Khonyong, Investigation Division Commander at Mueang Chachoengsao station, reported Bangkok Post. Reports had been received by the Royal Thai Police (RTP), alleging that the eight officers demonstrated inappropriate behaviour towards those aiding the investigation, and had potentially interfered with the ongoing probe. The RTP invoked its authority under Sections 63 and 105 of the Royal Thai Police Act, amongst other regulations, to enact the transfers and bolster the internal affairs department. In response, the eight implicated officers have petitioned Torsak to move the case from the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau to the Department of Special Investigation. They argue that the Department of Special Investigation would provide a more equitable environment. In related news, Police General Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn, Deputy National Police Chief, refuted allegations of his involvement with online gambling networks. Despite the rumours that have been swirling since early this week, Big Joke clarified that no formal charges have been brought against him following the widely publicised house search conducted last year. Furthermore, he noted that only eight individuals, some of whom are his subordinates, have had their cases forwarded to prosecutors. by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Amarin TV Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-26 - 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

Police officer’s knife attack in South Thailand leaves one dead by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A police officer went on a frenzied rampage in Nakhon Si Thammarat province, leaving an elderly woman fatally stabbed and another seriously injured. The incident occurred yesterday, February 24, when the officer, reportedly suffering a mental breakdown, charged out of a police flat, kicked over a motorcycle carrying two women, and attacked them with a knife. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320824-police-officer’s-knife-attack-in-south-thailand-leaves-one-dead/

A police officer went on a frenzied rampage in Nakhon Si Thammarat province, leaving an elderly woman fatally stabbed and another seriously injured. The incident occurred yesterday, February 24, when the officer, reportedly suffering a mental breakdown, charged out of a police flat, kicked over a motorcycle carrying two women, and attacked them with a knife. Eyewitnesses describe a scene of chaos near the Cha-uat Police Station, only a few metres away from where the officer lived. The two victims, both 60 years old, were riding their motorcycle when the assailant, armed with a bloodied knife, struck with lethal intent. While one woman lay dead at the scene, the other was critically wounded and rushed to Cha-uat Hospital before being transferred to Maharaj Nakhon Si Thammarat Hospital due to the severity of her injuries, reported KhaoSod. Rescue services from Cha-uat, identified by their unit number 02/011, responded swiftly to the assault. In the aftermath, the police were apprehended by his colleagues and taken into custody at the police station. The Provincial Police Region Chief, Somchai Tortrakul, has since taken charge of the investigation. In related news, a mentally ill Thai man stabbed a local woman he met on a coach bus in the Isaan province of Khon Kaen on February 6. The attacker’s mother revealed that her son had a mental illness but refused any treatment. The victim, Nittaya Pimthong, was rushed to hospital with several cut wounds on her arms. She is in stable condition after receiving six stitches on her left arm and 10 stitches on her right arm. The 31 year old injured woman told Amarin TV that she always feared an attack while travelling alone and, sadly, it became a reality for her. Nittaya explained to the police and media that she had accompanied her foreign husband to Isaan province in Nakhon Ratchasima, and subsequently opted to visit her mother in Borrabue district, Mahasarakham province after her husband departed for his home country. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-26 - 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

Betong tourism association pushes for airport runway extension by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of ThaiPost The Betong District Tourism Association is pressing for an extension of the runway at Betong International Airport. The expansion is integral to Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s tourism enhancement agenda. The longer runway is anticipated to allow larger aircraft to land, subsequently increasing the influx of tourists. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320823-betong-tourism-association-pushes-for-airport-runway-extension/

The Betong District Tourism Association is pressing for an extension of the runway at Betong International Airport. The expansion is integral to Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s tourism enhancement agenda. The longer runway is anticipated to allow larger aircraft to land, subsequently increasing the influx of tourists. Deputy President of the association, Narin Ruangwongsa, expressed the intention to propose this expansion during PM Srettha’s forthcoming visit to the district. The prime minister’s official tour of the Deep South region, comprising of Yala, Pattani, and Narathiwat provinces, is primarily aimed at tourism stimulation, as per government spokesperson, Chai Wacharonke. PM Srettha will be accompanied by a cohort of key ministers, including Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit, and Tourism Minister Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol, among others. In the previous year, Yala attracted over 1 million Thai and over 600,000 foreign visitors, yielding approximately 5.1 billion baht, as per the association’s records. The renowned Betong district alone received at least 1.6 million visitors, reported Bangkok Post. Narin elaborated on the association’s request to increase the current runway length of 1.8 kilometres to 2.5 kilometres to accommodate larger aircraft. This expansion would enable the airport to handle aircraft with 150 to 180 seats, a significant increase from the current capacity of 80 seats or less. Narin argued that larger aircraft would result in reduced travel expenses to the district, thereby enticing more tourists. Furthermore, the proposal includes the promotion of historical sites and the utilisation of local soft power. The association aims to highlight the province’s multicultural festivals, particularly for Chinese tourists. It also seeks to advertise Thai-Muslim cultural events, such as Malaya Day, which could allure high-spending tourists, including those from the Middle East. The association also plans to organise more tourism-related events, like the Batong Trail Running and Ecotourism Route Cycling. Narin also hinted at the possibility of adding more landmark check-in spots like Hala-Bala Forest’s Lake Bridge to the tourism promotion plan. by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of ThaiPost Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-26 - 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