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The former head of Kaeng Krachan National Park in Phetchaburi, Chaiwat Limlikit-aksorn, is facing potential disciplinary action following a misconduct investigation by the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC). The organisation has requested that the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment consider the action against Chaiwat due to his involvement in a construction project within the park. The NACC’s inquiry identified Chaiwat as responsible for misconduct during the establishment of a park ranger office building during his tenure as park chief. The inquiry discovered that Chaiwat was in violation of Section 157 of the Criminal Code, Sections 4 and 12 of the anti-price collusion law, as well as Section 172 of the anti-corruption law. His actions allowing the continuation of the construction project were deemed a gross disciplinary violation, reported Bangkok Post. The NACC’s letter also noted that another official, Duang Sangthong, was also implicated in this case. Duang was found to have violated the same laws as Chaiwat and also committed a serious disciplinary violation. However, while the NACC found no basis for criminal action against two other officials, Suporn Polpan and Nijitnapong Bunditsamit, it was established that they had committed a minor disciplinary breach. The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment has been urged by the NACC to take disciplinary action against the four officials, without needing to conduct further inquiry. The Ministry has been given 30 days to act upon the NACC’s findings. Regarding criminal proceedings, the NACC has submitted the cases against Chaiwat and Duang to the Office of the Attorney-General. In related news, after the Thai government’s decision to settle 150 Karen villagers in Kaeng Krachan National Park sparked protests in Phetchaburi, controversy ensued. Local residents, led by figures like former senator Sumol Sutawiriyapat, voiced concerns over potential damage to the forest. The decision, made as part of a political campaign strategy, lacked local input and raised questions about conservation efforts. Legal challenges were filed as residents sought resolution and protested government action. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-02-20 - 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: Thailand investigates extending alcohol sales hours for tourism boost by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of MGR Online Public Health Minister, Cholnan Srikaew, announced the formation of a panel by the National Alcohol Beverage Policy Committee to investigate the proposed extension of alcohol sales hours in Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320321-liquor-policy-committee-drops-plan-to-extend-liquor-sale-hours-for-now/?do=findComment&comment=18706980

Thailand investigates extending alcohol sales hours for tourism boost by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of MGR Online Public Health Minister, Cholnan Srikaew, announced the formation of a panel by the National Alcohol Beverage Policy Committee to investigate the proposed extension of alcohol sales hours in Thailand. This decision necessitates a comprehensive review of the existing laws and regulations surrounding the sale of alcoholic beverages. The panel’s objective is to study the potential repercussions of extended drinking hours on public health and economic growth. At present, there is a lack of sufficient data for the committee to reach a concrete decision on this matter. The Ministry of Tourism and Sports predicts that the proposed policy change could boost the tourism sector’s revenue to 1.2 trillion baht (US$33 billion). It is estimated that food and beverage sales would contribute to one-sixth of this projected figure, approximately 200 billion baht (US$5.5 billion), reported Bangkok Post. However, there are concerns about the potential negative outcomes of this policy. Cholnan pointed out an observed increase in accidents in the five provinces where night entertainment venues have longer operating hours. He stressed the need to determine if there is a direct correlation between these two factors. He clarified that there is no specified timeline for the completion of the study. This decision follows the rejection of a similar proposal by a committee on alcoholic beverage controls last week. The committee cited potential adverse impacts on public health and social welfare due to longer drinking hours as the reason for their decision. Currently, the law permits the sale of alcoholic beverages between 11am-2pm and 5pm to midnight. In response to the proposed changes, approximately 800 people from various temperance groups convened at the Ministry of Public Health to voice their opposition. Somsak Thepsutin, Deputy Prime Minister and committee chair, assured these groups that there would be no hasty decisions made on changing the policy. Extended alcohol sales Photo courtesy of MGR Online The challenge facing authorities involves balancing the demands of tourism with local priorities while also addressing issues related to alcohol consumption. Thailand grapples with a high number of road accidents, with many attributed to drunk driving, as seen in incidents like the hit-and-run on Rama 4 Road where a traffic officer lost their life. Source: The Thaiger 2024-02-20 - 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

NESDC adjusts Thailand’s GDP growth projections for 2023 and 2024 by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of iStock An adjustment to the anticipated GDP growth for 2023 and 2024 has been made by the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC), dropping to 1.9% and 2.7% respectively. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320356-nesdc-adjusts-thailand’s-gdp-growth-projections-for-2023-and-2024/

An adjustment to the anticipated GDP growth for 2023 and 2024 has been made by the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC), dropping to 1.9% and 2.7% respectively. The secretary-general of NESDC, Danucha Pichayanan, has called upon the Bank of Thailand to utilise financial measures to support the economy. The NESDC unveiled the figures for the economic growth in 2023, along with its prediction for 2024’s growth, both of which were lower than the previously anticipated 2.5% and 2.7-3.7% (averaging 3.2%) respectively. Danucha Pichayanan proposed that the central bank should contemplate measures to decrease interest rates, especially the net interest margin (NIM), which currently stands high at approximately 5%, to aid in the economy’s recovery. Danucha mentioned, “In the recent past, the government undertook many stimulus measures to revive tourism, support investment, and expedite the disbursement of the state budget. As a next step, the government should use financial measures to support the economy.” The NESDC is urging financial institutions to lower the NIM to aid small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and households with their debt issues. The NIM does not, however, have a significant impact on large businesses. Danucha further suggested that the central bank should prolong its debt assistance measures by preserving the minimum payment rate for credit card debt at 5% for some time. This measure had expired at the end of the previous year and is now at 8%, but its implementation could prevent non-performing loans (NPLs) among SMEs and households. In 2023, public investment and public consumption saw a contraction of 4.6% in comparison to 2022, caused by a delay in the disbursement of the fiscal 2023 budget due to the general election. Exports of goods and services expanded by 2.1%, a decrease from 6.1% in 2022, reported Bangkok Post. Predicted GDP growth for 2024, which is expected to expand between 2.2-3.2%, with an average of 2.7%, can be attributed to various positive factors. Public investment is expected to decrease by 1.8%, while public consumption is projected to increase by 1.5%. Private investment and consumption are expected to expand by 3.5% and 3%, respectively. However, the Thai economy still faces risks in 2024 due to a delay in state budget planning, increasing household debt, drought, volatility in the global financial system, and geopolitical tensions worldwide. Moreover, China’s economic issues, primarily the liquidity crunch in its real estate sector, could potentially impact Thailand’s export sector. by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of iStock Source: The Thaiger 2024-02-20 - 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 20 February 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320355-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-tuesday-20-february-2024/

Prime Minister Thavisin has warned. Myanmar nationals who enter Thailand illegally that will face legal action, Myanmar's military junta will begin to conscript youngsters from April which has prompted a sharp rise in the number of visa applications to enter Thailand . The pm added: Thailand's unemployment rate is lower than 1% and many more labourers from neighbouring countries are needed, however they must enter the country legally to work. The minister of public health says a panel will be established to study a proposal to extend the hours when alcohol can be sold in shops. the study will examine the impact on public health and economic growth, he added there was currently insufficient data for the committee to make a decision. Some 800 people campaigned against the proposed changes outside the department of health yesterday. The National Anti-Corruption Commission has asked for legal action to be taken against the former head of Kaeng Krachan National park for misconduct over a construction project inside the park. He is accused of corruption and other financial related charges by allowing construction to proceed, one other person is also likely to be charged. The Agricultural Land Reform Office has denied issuing land title deeds for plots located inside Khao Yai National Park, but says it is investigating the possible involvement of its officials. Nearly 3000 rai of land inside the Unesco World Heritage site, were recently found to have been wrongfully assigned as agricultural land for farmers. The anti corruption commission may carry out an investigation into land encroachment. Around the region Chinese artificial intelligence logistics company Westwell has saet up it’s headquarters in Hong Kong . The Shanghai-based company, which designs and develops AI chips and autopilot control systems for AI-powered autonomous vehicles will also set up a research centre in the city. WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: Sunny 36 Bangkok: sunny, partly cloudy, , 34C Pattaya: sunny, partly cloudy, 32C Phuket and the south: Sunny partly cloudy 32C Hua Hin: sunny, light cloud, winds lite, from the south…33C AQI Yellow light 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 2024-02-20 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

Customers Complain of Bank App Deducting Money Every Minute by 33.28 Baht "TTBThanachart Bank" has clarified after customers complained of the bank app deducting money every minute by 33.28 Baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320351-customers-complain-of-bank-app-deducting-money-every-minute-by-3328-baht/

"TTBThanachart Bank" has clarified after customers complained of the bank app deducting money every minute by 33.28 Baht. Following a viral post on the Drama-addict page warning of a popular bank app deducting money every minute without the account owner even using the app or conducting any transactions, concerns arose. What's happening? The 'banking app' deducts money every minute without being in use, reported Daily News. Recently, on the official Facebook page of Thanachart Bank, netizens gathered to discuss and criticize the issue of customers being drained money by the bank app. Comments flooded in, asking, "Is there no action regarding customers being drained of money on their own? What's causing this?" The page administrators of the bank responded, stating, "The bank is aware of the matter and is not taking it lightly. We are urgently investigating all affected transactions. Any transactions not initiated by the cardholder and verified will be refunded within 5 business days. The bank has a real-time abnormal transaction detection system. Therefore, customers can trust the system and the bank's security measures. Customers can also choose to enable or disable online usage functions through the ttb touch app by going to Settings >> Debit Card Management >> Set Spending Limits and Card Usage >> Authorization >> Select Disable Online Purchase Authorization. However, abnormal transactions are initiated by external parties and are not due to internal data breaches or mobile banking hacks." -- ASEAN NOW 2024-02-20 - 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

50-Year Prison Sentence for Corruption: Official Embezzles 400k Baht from Prisoner Aid Shop Picture: Siam Rath The NACC has issued a statement on a corruption case involving an official at Tak Province's Central Prison. Mr. S., managing the inmate welfare store, is accused of misusing funds. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320349-50-year-prison-sentence-for-corruption-official-embezzles-400k-baht-from-prisoner-aid-shop/

The NACC has issued a statement on a corruption case involving an official at Tak Province's Central Prison. Mr. S., managing the inmate welfare store, is accused of misusing funds. Allegedly, he made purchases totaling 418,560 Baht on credit but didn't pay, diverting the money for personal use across 35 incidents. Following an investigation, the NACC found him guilty under Article 147 of the Criminal Code, reported Siam Rath. The Public Prosecutor pressed charges, resulting in his conviction for multiple corruption offenses. He received a 50-year sentence, with 35 consecutive 5-year terms and an order to repay 418,560 Baht to the prison. The court aims to uphold justice and deter future misconduct. Picture: Siam Rath -- ASEAN NOW 2024-02-20 - 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

Wild elephant found dead in Hua Hin stream By Online Reporter A dead elephant, which was discovered in a stream in Huai Sat Yai, Hua Hin, is believed to have succumbed to severe injuries from a conflict. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320348-wild-elephant-found-dead-in-hua-hin-stream/

A dead elephant, which was discovered in a stream in Huai Sat Yai, Hua Hin, is believed to have succumbed to severe injuries from a conflict. On February 18, 2024, Deputy Inspector Police Lieutenant Colonel Somphot Prayangam of Nong Plub Police Station in Hua Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khan, received a report from Mr. Sarawut Luangprabang, a 51-year-old palm plantation owner from Ban Fa Prathan, Pa La-U, Huai Sat Yai, Hua Hin. He had found the carcass of a wild elephant near his plantation and alerted the authorities. Following the report, a team including Mr. Somjet Chantan, Director of the Conservation Area Administration Office 3 (Phetchaburi Branch), the office’s veterinarian, the head of Kaeng Krachan National Park, border patrol police, a special task force, and a provincial evidence team, quickly went to examine the site at the specified coordinates. By Online Reporter Full story: HUA HIN TODAY 2024-02-20 - 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

Thaksin’s lèse majesté case pending further investigation Prosecution of the lèse majesté case against former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra has been postponed, after the attorney-general ordered further investigation into the case today, in response to Thaksin’s appeal for justice. Thaksin, who was released on conditional parole yesterday, reported to the Office of the Attorney-General this morning (OAG), to be informed of Attorney-General Amnat Chetcharoenrak’s decision, after he had been notified of the lèse majesté charges against him by public prosecutors in January. Thaksin arrived at the OAG in a wheel chair in the company of his youngest daughter, Paetongtarn, who is also Pheu Thai party leader, and police from the Technology Crime Suppression Division, which has taken over from the Corrections Department in the handling of the case. Full story: Thai PBS 2024-02-20 - 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

OAG Not Deciding On Lese Majeste Case Against Thaksin Till April 10 By Thai Newsroom Reporters THE OFFICE OF THE ATTORNEY-GENERAL will remain undecided as to whether to proceed with a lese majeste lawsuit against de facto Pheu Thai boss-cum-convict on parole Thaksin Shinawatra until April 10. OAG spokesperson Prayut Petcharakhun confirmed today (Feb.19) the agency is not going to decide whether to put forward the lese majeste case against Thaksin who has been granted parole until April 10. In the meantime, police officers in charge of the criminal case involving the draconian law, also known as Section 112 of the Criminal Code, will investigate further in pursuit of additional evidence pertaining to the verbal statements which the de facto Pheu Thai boss-cum-convict on parole had earlier made and been viewed as allegedly tantamount to lese majeste content, Prayut said. Nevertheless, the OAG may either proceed with the lese majeste case against the deposed prime minister or simply drop it or probably postpone the decision beyond April 10, given a 15-year litigation period, according to the OAG spokesperson. Full story: THAI NEWSROOM 2024-02-20 - 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

Thaksin Virtually Held Hostage With Lese Majeste Lawsuit: NIDA Academic By Thai Newsroom Reporters De facto Pheu Thai boss Thaksin Shinawatra returning home from Police Hospital early yesterday morning, Feb. 18, 2024. Photo: AP/ Sakchai Lalit, published by Matichon DE FACTO PHEU THAI BOSS-cum-convict on parole Thaksin Shinawatra is being virtually held hostage by the country’s powers that be with a lese majeste lawsuit against him so that he will never do anything unacceptable to them, according to a prominent academic. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320347-thaksin-virtually-held-hostage-with-lese-majeste-lawsuit-nida-academic/

DE FACTO PHEU THAI BOSS-cum-convict on parole Thaksin Shinawatra is being virtually held hostage by the country’s powers that be with a lese majeste lawsuit against him so that he will never do anything unacceptable to them, according to a prominent academic. Pichai Ratanadilok na Phuket, director of the NIDA’s Political & Strategic Development Programme commented that Thaksin is being virtually held hostage in the lese majeste case the judicial proceedings of which might probably be delayed beyond April so that the powers that be could practically keep the de facto Pheu Thai boss-cum-convict on parole under control. The powers that be ranging from the ultra-conservative elite class and high-level bureaucrats to elderly members of “independent” agencies will virtually keep Thaksin’s ball in their court intertwined with political shenanigans conjured by the de facto Pheu Thai boss and carried out by the core coalition partner, according to the NIDA academic. If the de facto Pheu Thai boss’s actions and words veered off course for whatever conceivable reasons, the powers that be would almost certainly see to it that the lese majeste case against him be finally forwarded to court, Pichai commented. By Thai Newsroom Reporters TOP: De facto Pheu Thai boss Thaksin Shinawatra returning home from Police Hospital early yesterday morning, Feb. 18, 2024. Photo: AP/ Sakchai Lalit, published by Matichon Full story: THAI NEWSROOM 2024-02-20 - 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

Makha Bucha Arrives This Saturday with Nationwide Alcohol Sale Ban By Aim Tanakorn Makha Bucha, the second most important Buddhist day for Thai people, is only a few days away from today, February 19th, 2024. If you’re visiting Thailand during this time, here is what you need to know. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320346-makha-bucha-arrives-this-saturday-with-nationwide-alcohol-sale-ban/

By Aim Tanakorn Makha Bucha, the second most important Buddhist day for Thai people, is only a few days away from today, February 19th, 2024. If you’re visiting Thailand during this time, here is what you need to know. What is Makha Bucha? Makha Bucha, which falls on this Saturday, February 24th, commemorates four key events in the Buddha’s life, emphasizing his teachings and principles. Temples hold special ceremonies, including candle processions and chanting, during this day while Thai people observe the occasion by visiting temples, practicing meditation, and abstaining from vices like alcohol and entertainment. What does this mean for our foreign readers? While not expected to participate in religious rituals, it’s important to be mindful of the respectful atmosphere. Dressing modestly when visiting temples is essential, and avoiding loud or disruptive behavior is crucial. Here’s what you need to know: Alcohol Sale Ban: Be aware of the nationwide alcohol sale ban on Makha Bucha, which starts from midnight on February 23rd and lasts until midnight on February 24th. Entertainment places like bars and clubs will not be able to operate normally either, and restaurants, hotels, supermarkets, and convenience stores are banned from selling alcohol for 24 hrs. Respectful Behavior: Be mindful of noise levels and avoid disruptive activities. Remember, this is a day of reflection and reverence for many Thais. Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-02-20 - 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

Bid to Extend Legal Alcohol Sales Time Rejected Again By Thai Government Panel By Aim Tanakorn Different alcohol drinks in bottles with STOP sign on grey background A Thai government committee has dropped, for the second time, a proposal to extend the afternoon alcohol sale time in response to activists’ pleas. However, the Public Health Minister has not completely dismissed possibly changing the sales times in the future. On February 19th, 2024, representatives from various anti-alcohol groups gathered at the Ministry of Public Health in protest of the proposed sales extension that is being discussed by the Alcoholic Beverage Policy Committee of Thailand. The committee is led by Deputy Prime Minister Somsak Thepsuthin. Mr. Somsak arrived at the ministry to receive a letter from the protestors and assured them that the committee would not extend alcohol sales hours, citing the need for further analysis and consideration. Mr. Somsak also expressed support for establishing a dedicated fund, titled “The Fund for the Rehabilitation and Care of those affected by alcoholic beverages,” to assist individuals negatively impacted by alcohol consumption. Meanwhile, supporters of lifting the long-standing ban, including the tourism and hospitality industry, have continued to press for at least a trial in certain areas, almost certainly meant to be tourism hotspots like Pattaya and Phuket. Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-02-20 - 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

to continue: Thailand Live Tuesday 20 February 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1320345-thailand-live-tuesday-20-february-2024/

Thailand’s fiery plight: 400+ hotspots spark concern Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Thailand is currently grappling with more than 400 hotspots, with the highest concentration in the provinces of Chiang Mai, Lampang, and Mae Hong Son, each reporting over 40 incidents. In comparison, neighbouring countries are also facing significant challenges, with Myanmar recording 3,065 hotspots, Cambodia 1,341, Laos 704, and Vietnam 414 as of February 18. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320336-thailand’s-fiery-plight-400-hotspots-spark-concern/

Deputy Prime Minister Somsak Thepsuthin promised members of an anti-liquor network today that the Liquor Policy Committee will not extend liquor sales hours. Liquor Policy Committee drops plan to extend liquor sale hours, for now Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320321-liquor-policy-committee-drops-plan-to-extend-liquor-

Chief prosecutor says Thaksin appeared seriously ill, in a wheelchair, could not walk, had no voice and wore a neck brace during their meeting. BANGKOK POST sms

Thailand teenager’s tragic stabbing leads to police pursuit by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ ข่าววันนี้ Police arrested a Thai man for fatally stabbing a 16 year old boy in the central province of Suphan Buri. Another suspect is still at large. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320296-thailand-teenager’s-tragic-stabbing-leads-to-police-pursuit/