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According to a recent study conducted by the YouGov analysis institute, sponsored by Visa, the go-to name in digital payments, 80% of Thais will be ordering their Valentine’s Day treats from the comfort of their screens. The research delved deep into the hearts and wallets of Thai consumers, uncovering fascinating insights into how lovebirds navigate the digital aisles in search of that perfect gift for their special someone. Surprisingly, it seems that communication remains key, with almost two-thirds (59%) of respondents opting for the direct approach, openly expressing their heart’s desires. But in a twist that could have come straight from a sci-fi romance, 27% are relying on the help of artificial intelligence (AI), using their partner’s smartphone to drop hints. Regarding where to shop for that token of affection, the digital realm reigns supreme, with 57% favouring online retailers and eCommerce platforms. Social media isn’t far behind, with a cheeky 20% planning to snap up gifts from social commerce outlets on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and LINE. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Lazada Philippines Facebook Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-13 - 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 health ministry targets birth rate boost with new fertility strategies by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of iStock Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health is set to introduce strategies designed to encourage artificial insemination and support those who wish to become parents, encompassing the LGBTQ community as well. The drive is part of an initiative to increase the country’s birth rate. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1319797-thailand’s-health-ministry-targets-birth-rate-boost-with-new-fertility-strategies/

Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health is set to introduce strategies designed to encourage artificial insemination and support those who wish to become parents, encompassing the LGBTQ community as well. The drive is part of an initiative to increase the country’s birth rate. During a meeting with Jos Vandelaer, Thailand’s World Health Organisation representative, at Nakhonping Hospital, the Minister, Cholnan Srikaew, disclosed that the Department of Health (DoH) has been tasked with developing measures to enhance access to infertility treatments and preconception counselling. The DoH is to explore ways of optimising the provision of intrauterine insemination (IUI) and in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) services for those who require them. Cholnan also highlighted that a change in the law to permit single women and the LGBTQ community to access infertility treatment is being considered. He predicted that the amendment could be proposed as early as March, reported Bangkok Post. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of iStock Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-13 - 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 by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of iStock

South Thailand: Volunteer killed, four injured in Thai insurgent ambush by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Thai PBS World In a tragic turn just days after peace negotiations resumed, a roadside explosion in the Janae district of Thailand’s Narathiwat province yesterday killed a defence volunteer and left four others with serious injuries. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1319795-south-thailand-volunteer-killed-four-injured-in-thai-insurgent-ambush/

In a tragic turn just days after peace negotiations resumed, a roadside explosion in the Janae district of Thailand’s Narathiwat province yesterday killed a defence volunteer and left four others with serious injuries. The volunteers, aboard an armoured pickup truck bound for the Chang Phuek Tambon Administrative Organisation, fell victim to insurgents’ treachery along Road 4217 in Ban Kumoong village. Concealed within the roadside foliage, a deadly improvised explosive device (IED) lay in wait, triggered by the passing vehicle, reported Thai PBS World. The resulting blast violently overturned the truck, claiming the life of the driver instantaneously. In the chaos that followed, reinforcements rushed to the scene to transport the injured to the district hospital for urgent medical attention. In related news, the dialogue between the Barisan Revolusi Nasional Melayu-Patani (BRN) and the Thai government’s peace team took place last Tuesday, February 6 in Malaysia, as disclosed by a source from the National Security Council (NSC). by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Thai PBS World Full story: THe Thaiger 2024-02-13 - 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

Royal Thai Air Force to open facilities and golf courses to public by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) decided to open select facilities and golf courses to the public under certain conditions, according to the commander-in-chief, ACM Punpakdee Pattanakul. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1319794-royal-thai-air-force-to-open-facilities-and-golf-courses-to-public/

The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) decided to open select facilities and golf courses to the public under certain conditions, according to the commander-in-chief, ACM Punpakdee Pattanakul. This decision follows a request from Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin to use the Kantarat Golf Course, situated between Don Mueang International Airport’s runways, and access other RTAF properties for state project development. The 61 year old prime minister’s request also includes the transformation of the Dhupatemiya Stadium Golf Course into a sports complex. He has further requested access through the Wing 1 facilities to be used by the neighbouring commercial airport in Nakhon Ratchasima, and the construction of a ring road through Wing 41 to alleviate traffic congestion in downtown Chiang Mai. A panel comprising all relevant bodies will investigate this issue, according to the prime minister. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-13 - 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 Champions Gender Equality and Diversity by Naark Rojanasuvan The government is determined to promote the rights of all citizens to have equality. The administration also supports the cooperation of all sectors to move forward in creating a Thai society that is diverse and equal in terms of gender. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1319793-thailand-champions-gender-equality-and-diversity/

The government is determined to promote the rights of all citizens to have equality. The administration also supports the cooperation of all sectors to move forward in creating a Thai society that is diverse and equal in terms of gender. BANGKOK (NNT) - Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin made the statement during his keynote speech at the international talks titled “Business, Gender Diversity, and the Path Ahead.” He reiterated that the Thai government places importance on empowering all citizens, regardless of age, gender, religion, nationality, or social status, as Thailand has stated during the 75th anniversary celebration of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) in December 2023. This is especially true for gender equality, which is considered a fundamental human right in Thai social policy. The aspiration is to ensure that no one is left behind on the journey towards an equal and prosperous society. The prime minister also underlined that the government is proud to support the equal marriage law. The move reflects the government's commitment to promoting the rights of all citizens, while reaffirming its promise to create a society that is open to diversity and provides equal opportunities for everyone. Furthermore, the government supports activities related to gender equality of all sectors, both domestically and internationally. This also includes consideration in the areas of education, workplaces, non-discriminatory healthcare, and access to create an environment that promotes diversity for everyone. The premier believes that the discussion will be an opportunity for all sectors to engage in constructive dialogue, share insights, experiences, and effective solutions. He added that the participation of all sectors will help define the path of gender equality in Thai society and promote an environment for success for the collective. by Naark Rojanasuvan Source: NNT 2024-02-13 - 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

'Honking' incident at a Royal motorcade sparks online chat - Tim Newton Today - Feb 13 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1319792-honking-incident-at-a-royal-motorcade-sparks-online-chat-tim-newton-today-feb-13/

Thailand News - Online reaction of the German man's death on a recent Lufthansa flight has been over the top, to say the least. Thai online discussion about 'honking' a car horn at a Royal Motorcade is being widely discussed, and carefully reported, including TNT. Another explosion and death, plus several injuries, in the ongoing southern insurgency, this time in Narathiwat, five immigration police are being sent to prison for 15 years each for the extortion of a Chinese businessman last year. Suvarnabhumi is about to get a third runway, and the Bangkok Metropolitan Authority is considering new 50 KPH speed zones. Tim Newton Today is a daily take on Thai and regional news and issues of interest to expats and foreign tourists.

Thai PM defends 10,000-baht digital wallet scheme amid criticism by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of เศรษฐา ทวีสิน - Srettha Thavisin (Facebook) The implementation of the controversial 10,000-baht digital wallet scheme was defended yesterday by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1319791-thai-pm-defends-10000-baht-digital-wallet-scheme-amid-criticism/

The implementation of the controversial 10,000-baht digital wallet scheme was defended yesterday by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. This came following a statement by Move Forward Party Deputy Leader Sirikanya Tansakul, suggesting the government develop a backup plan due to the scheme’s uncertain future. Tansakul pointed out that the scheme’s success hinges on the decision of the government’s digital wallet policy committee, which is scheduled to meet on Thursday. “If the government truly wants to see the economy recover, it needs a backup plan as the fate of the country cannot hinge on just one policy the 10,000-baht digital handout.” Tansakul further urged the government to expedite the inclusion of the digital wallet policy in the annual budget expenditure plan. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of เศรษฐา ทวีสิน - Srettha Thavisin (Facebook) Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-13 - 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

8 year old girl rescued after spending 2 days in Chon Buri cemetery (video) by Petch Petpailin Photo via KomChadLuek A Thai cemetery caretaker rescued an eight year old girl who spent two days in a graveyard in Chon Buri province after she was allegedly abused by her mother, prompting her to run away from home. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1319790-8-year-old-girl-rescued-after-spending-2-days-in-chon-buri-cemetery-video/

A Thai cemetery caretaker rescued an eight year old girl who spent two days in a graveyard in Chon Buri province after she was allegedly abused by her mother, prompting her to run away from home. The 55 year old cemetery caretaker, Samai Kalaphan, sought help from the Tri Khunnatham Rescue Foundation after discovering the girl. Samai explained that he saw the girl playing alone in the eerie graveyard. Samai said he thought the girl came with her family and initially ignored her. However, the girl was still there in the evening and no one was around. He spoke with her and learned that she had been abused by her mother. She fled the house and was afraid to return for fear of being beaten again. by Petch Petpailin Photo via KomChadLuek Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-13 - 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

Man arrested in Songkhla for illegal online sale of protected birds by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Thai authorities have arrested a 40 year old man for illegally selling protected wild birds online, claiming he needed the money for his child’s medical expenses. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1319788-man-arrested-in-songkhla-for-illegal-online-sale-of-protected-birds/

Thai authorities have arrested a 40 year old man for illegally selling protected wild birds online, claiming he needed the money for his child’s medical expenses. The man, identified as Tatsana Pohtong, was apprehended at his home in Songkhla province with 29 caged birds in his possession. The arrest followed an investigation into his Facebook posts advertising the sale of the birds, which are listed as protected species. Yesterday, a joint operation by several police units, including the Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Suppression Division, led to the capture of Tatsana at his residence in the Hat Yai district. The seized evidence included six cages containing a total of 29 Helmeted Hornbills, also known as White-crowned Hornbills, a species protected by Thai law. Alongside the birds, authorities confiscated four wooden cages and one metal cage. The investigation was spurred by Tatsana’s Facebook activity, where he used his account to offer the birds for sale. His posts boasted of the birds’ origin, directly from Myanmar, and their quality. Upon interrogation, Tatsana confessed to buying the birds from another trader in Nakhon Si Thammarat province for 550 baht (US$15) each and reselling them on Facebook at various prices ranging from 600 (US$16.71) to 1,500 baht (US$41.77). by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-13 - 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

FTI urges protection for SMEs against surge of cheap Chinese imports by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of iStock The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) is advocating for enhanced protection of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) against the surge of inexpensive Chinese products. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1319787-fti-urges-protection-for-smes-against-surge-of-cheap-chinese-imports/

The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) is advocating for enhanced protection of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) against the surge of inexpensive Chinese products. Kriengkrai Thiennukul, the chairman of the FTI, has revealed that the importation of these products has caused certain local manufacturers, predominantly SMEs, to cut their production by 50%. The FTI asserts that some imported goods require comprehensive inspection, as they may not adhere to safety and environmental regulations. The chairman has been vocal in urging the government to assist businesses in addressing this issue. Pimphattra Wichaikul, the Industry Minister, had previously directed the Thai Industrial Standards Institute (TISI) to collaborate with the Customs Department to inspect the quality of imported goods, particularly those under TISI’s purview. The intention of this directive was to halt the surge of cheap, substandard goods. Despite these efforts, Kriengkrai claimed that many low-quality products are still being imported into Thailand. by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of iStock Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-13 - 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 digital deficit weighs heavily on tech industry by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of iStock The digital deficit in Thailand, estimated to be around 200 billion baht (US$5.56 billion) per year, is a major concern for tech industry leaders. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1319784-thailand’s-digital-deficit-weighs-heavily-on-tech-industry/

The digital deficit in Thailand, estimated to be around 200 billion baht (US$5.56 billion) per year, is a major concern for tech industry leaders. The former president of the Thai e-Commerce Association, Pawoot Ponngvitayapanu, highlighted this issue to Parliament’s economic steering committee, urging them to address the deficit and informing the finance ministry. The deficit stems from Thailand consuming more digital services from foreign providers than it produces domestically. Pawoot further suggested that foreign operators generating over 1.8 million baht (US$50,125) annually in Thailand should be identified, as they are liable to pay value-added tax (VAT) in the country. Since September 1, 2021, foreign electronic service providers with revenues surpassing the 1.8 million baht threshold are obliged to register for a 7% VAT liability. In 2022, Thailand collected approximately 6.4 billion baht (US$178 million) from VAT on e-services. The majority of this tax, 63%, was paid by online advertising platforms, followed by online products (25%) and subscriptions for music, movies, and games (10%). In 2023, the VAT collection rose slightly to 6.7 billion baht (US$186 million), with the same sectors being the main contributors, albeit with slight percentage adjustments. VAT collection as of January was 2.3 billion baht (US$64 million), reported Bangkok Post. by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of iStock Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-13 - 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 economy needs more stimulus amidst global challenges, says K-Research by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of iStock Kasikorn Research Centre (K-Research) has warned that the Thai economy requires additional government stimulus to boost domestic consumption amidst challenges such as global politics, China’s economic deceleration, and fluctuating currency rates. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1319779-thai-economy-needs-more-stimulus-amidst-global-challenges-says-k-research/

Kasikorn Research Centre (K-Research) has warned that the Thai economy requires additional government stimulus to boost domestic consumption amidst challenges such as global politics, China’s economic deceleration, and fluctuating currency rates. The centre’s managing director, Burin Adulwattana, emphasised that the decrease in headline inflation for the fourth consecutive month in January does not suggest deflation risks, but rather highlights consumers’ dwindling purchasing power. “Low inflation is temporary as core inflation remains up slightly by 0.5%,” Burin said, arguing that the economy needs enhanced measures to bolster purchasing power. Despite a slow return of Chinese tourists, tourism numbers remain the only economic indicators showing positive growth this year. Burin anticipates a 2% growth in exports this year, following a contraction of nearly 1% in 2023, as global trade recovers. However, he warned of potential challenges, including conflict in the Red Sea and the potential impacts of climate change. “The swing of the baht is likely to persist, pressured by the Federal Reserve’s interest rate policy and uncertainties regarding the Thai interest rate,” he noted. by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of iStock Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-13 - 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 13 February 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1319778-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-tuesday-13-february-2024/

The government plans to reconsider a ministerial policy reducing penalties for drug users caught with five or fewer meth pills. Critics on social media argue the five-pill limit is excessive given the country's drug issues. The prime minister emphasized zero tolerance for drug possession but acknowledged the need to test the new policy's effectiveness.." The Ministry of Public Health is to announce measures to promote artificial insemination among people wanting to be parents, including the LGBTQ community, as part of efforts to boost Thailand's birthrate which has been in decline. The announcement follows a meeting with the world health organization to identify measures to support access to infertility treatments and counselling. Two Thai journalists were apprehended yesterday following their coverage of a graffiti incident, near the grand palace last march. The online independent publication ‘Prachatai, said their journalist Khun Nuttaphol was apprehended under allegations of being an "accomplice" Prachatai, issued a statement on social media that claimed that Mr Nuttaphol was one of several journalists present at the scene to report the news. Thai lawyers for human rights affirmed the journalist was detained on suspicion of vandalism to a historic site. Bangkoks local authority the BMA is to ask police to impose a 50km-per-hour speed limit on roads with a 40 limit in inner Bangkok and around major residential areas. The BMA has worked with Chulalongkorn University to assess the safety standards of roads throughout Bangkok By introducing speed limits in built up areas, prosecuting drunk drivers, and introducing a PR campaign about the dangers leading to road accidents. Around the region Myanmar: A former journalist and a young, social media celebrity were among a group of 7 seven men shot dead by military junta troops, then dumped in a bomb shelter and partially buried before an ancient town was captured by the independent Arakan Army over the weekend. WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: Sunny partly cloudy 33 Bangkok: Sunny partly cloudy 34C Pattaya: Sunny partly cloudy, 34C Phuket and the south: Sunny partly cloudy 33C Hua Hin :Sunny 32C AQI Orange to RED , HIGH to Unhealthy 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 2024-02-13 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