webfact

Thailand’s tourism sector remains stable despite court ruling, says TCT president by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of MGR Online The Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) president, Chamnan Srisawat, has reassured that the Constitutional Court ruling will not destabilise the government or the country’s tourism sector. He confidently stated that international tourism demand would remain unaffected unless there was severe violence. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1318597-thailand’s-tourism-sector-remains-stable-despite-court-ruling-says-tct-president/

The Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) president, Chamnan Srisawat, has reassured that the Constitutional Court ruling will not destabilise the government or the country’s tourism sector. He confidently stated that international tourism demand would remain unaffected unless there was severe violence. Chamnan credited Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s government with beneficial tourism-driving initiatives, such as visa-free travel for high-potential markets. Despite governmental stability, Chamnan acknowledged the challenges of attracting 35 million foreign tourists and achieving a revenue of 1.9 trillion baht (US$ 53,467,710,000) this year. Chookiat Ophaswongse, the honorary president of the Thai Rice Exporters Association, suggested it was premature to determine the court ruling’s repercussions. He warned that legal action against the Move Forward Party (MFP) could lead to political unrest and demonstrations, affecting tourism, exports, credibility, and markets. The extent of these potential consequences, he noted, would rest on the government’s ability to manage the situation effectively, reported Bangkok Post. by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of MGR Online Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-01 - 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

TikTok user exposes taxi overcharge in Bangkok, fare hits 105 baht (video) by Samantha Rose Picture courtesy of namotasapakavato1 TikTok A TikTok user sparked a conversation about taxi services after posting a video showing an unusually high fare for a short journey. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1318596-tiktok-user-exposes-taxi-overcharge-in-bangkok-fare-hits-105-baht-video/

A TikTok user sparked a conversation about taxi services after posting a video showing an unusually high fare for a short journey. The user, under the name namotasapakavato1, warned fellow passengers after a taxi ride from a BTS station to Rangsit became a cause for concern—not only did the driver bring along his wife, who sat in the front seat, but the taxi metre also skyrocketed to 105 baht (US$3) for less than a kilometre. The post detailed the user’s experience. “From the BTS station, the meter jumped to 105 baht before even reaching a kilometre, and the driver’s wife was there too, without wearing a taxi driver’s uniform.” The video showed the rapid increase of the meter’s numbers flashing erratically, while a woman, identified by the user as the driver’s wife, was seen using her mobile phone. Further, the clip’s owner revealed that the driver was complaining throughout the journey. Despite being informed in advance and initially agreeing to the ride, the user was taken aback by the erratic meter and the driver’s temper. The driver also suggested a flat rate for the trip, reported Sanook. by Samantha Rose Picture courtesy of namotasapakavato1 TikTok Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-01 - 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

Potential rise in minimum wage to 400 baht in select provinces by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of ThaiPost The anticipated increase in the daily minimum wage to 400 baht in select provinces is set for review by the tripartite wage committee in April, according to Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1318593-potential-rise-in-minimum-wage-to-400-baht-in-select-provinces/

The anticipated increase in the daily minimum wage to 400 baht in select provinces is set for review by the tripartite wage committee in April, according to Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn. The committee’s chairman, Pairoj Chotikasathien, has assigned a subcommittee to reassess the wage calculation formula and explore the potential for wage hikes in certain provinces and professions. “The findings from the study will be presented to the committee,” declared Phiphat. “I am optimistic that there will be encouraging news in April. Specific provinces and careers will likely witness a daily wage increase to 400 baht.” Pairoj noted that the subcommittee would evaluate the current economic and social conditions, existing wage rates, living standards, and employee expenses to formulate a new daily minimum wage calculation method. The subcommittee is scheduled to hold its inaugural meeting this week and submit the findings to the main committee by the month’s end. by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of ThaiPost Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-01 - 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

Good Samaritan injured aiding crash victims in Pathum Thani by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In the early hours of today, February 1, a good Samaritan tragically became a victim himself while assisting at the scene of a crash involving two motorcycles in Pathum Thani Province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1318591-good-samaritan-injured-aiding-crash-victims-in-pathum-thani/

In the early hours of today, February 1, a good Samaritan tragically became a victim himself while assisting at the scene of a crash involving two motorcycles in Pathum Thani Province. A 38 year old man was struck by a speeding car, sustaining severe injuries. The accident, which initially left three people injured from the motorcycle collision, occurred on the outbound Phaholyothin Road in front of Thai Watsadu, Khlong Luang district. The site revealed a chaotic scene with two overturned motorcycles, a Yamaha Mio with a Nakhon Nayok registration and a Yamaha Grand Filano with a Bangkok registration, and a Mazda car with a Bangkok plate caught in the central gutter between the expressway and the parallel frontage road. The Mazda had collided with Kasem, who was signalling traffic to aid emergency services. In total, five individuals were injured, including the three motorcycle riders, Kasem, and the car driver, identified only as 23 year old Kiattikun. Rescue workers had previously transported the victims to the hospital, reported KhaoSod. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-01 - 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 steel industry suffers as cheap imports from China flood market by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Steel industry capacity utilisation in Thailand is on a downward spiral, with Tata Steel Thailand Plc (TSTH), a subsidiary of India’s largest steelmaker, attributing this trend to the sluggish economic recovery and the influx of inexpensive steel from China. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1318589-thailand’s-steel-industry-suffers-as-cheap-imports-from-china-flood-market/

Steel industry capacity utilisation in Thailand is on a downward spiral, with Tata Steel Thailand Plc (TSTH), a subsidiary of India’s largest steelmaker, attributing this trend to the sluggish economic recovery and the influx of inexpensive steel from China. The postponement of the fiscal 2024 state budget planning as a consequence of the 2023 general elections and the protracted process of forming a coalition government has further resulted in a downturn in the country’s steel production. With a call to action for the government, Tarun Kuma Daga, president and chief executive of TSTH, stated: “We hope the government will speed up its budget distribution via infrastructure development projects to drive domestic steel demand.” In the previous year, Thailand’s steel consumption witnessed a year-on-year decrease of 9.1%. Compounding this issue, Daga expressed concerns over the increasing imports from China, which are undermining the local steel market, reported Bangkok Post. by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-01 - 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

Khun Srettha, it is time to declare a national health emergency over smog By Arun Saronchai The escalating crisis of PM2.5 air pollution in Thailand has reached a critical juncture, demanding immediate and decisive action from the government led by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1318587-khun-srettha-it-is-time-to-declare-a-national-health-emergency-over-smog/

The escalating crisis of PM2.5 air pollution in Thailand has reached a critical juncture, demanding immediate and decisive action from the government led by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. The pervasive smog that blankets cities, particularly Bangkok and northern regions like Chiang Mai, poses not just an environmental threat but a dire public health emergency. With air quality indices frequently breaching safe levels, the question arises: Why has there been no significant government statement or action on this pressing issue? What measures are being taken by the Ministry of Agriculture to address the rampant agricultural burning contributing to this crisis? The severity of PM2.5 pollution, characterized by particles small enough to penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, cannot be overstated. Linked to a myriad of health problems including lung cancer, heart disease, and premature death, the pollution levels have led to increased hospital admissions, burdening the healthcare system and affecting the country’s productivity and economic vitality. The World Bank’s alarming revelation that PM2.5 pollution costs Thailand a staggering 6% in lost GDP annually underscores the urgency for action. The recent overwhelming vote in Parliament for seven “clean air” laws signals a recognition of the issue’s gravity. However, legislation alone is insufficient without robust enforcement and a concerted effort to tackle the pollution sources head-on. The agricultural sector, a significant contributor to the smog through crop burning, requires urgent reform. The continued practice, despite its known impacts, raises critical questions about the Ministry of Agriculture’s role and the effectiveness of current policies. By Arun Saronchai Full story: THAI ENQUIRER 2024-02-01 - 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 - Thursday 1 February 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1318586-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-thursday-1-february-2024/

A new committee is expected to consider another daily minimum wage increase in April, which could see new rates rise to 400 baht a day in some provinces. A study on wages will be presented to the committee next week. Current wages range from 330 to 370 baht daily, A 50-year-old police captain in Yasothon N.E Thailand has reportedly admitted to raping a 17-year-old girl and has been suspended from duty. The police officer was arrested after the victim filed a complaint alleging rape after she was unable to pay a fine for riding a motorcycle without a licence. The officer was detained at a local Court for 12 days due to concern he may flee or tamper with evidence. A Bangkok Court yesterday convicted a young political activist of lese-majeste for a speech she gave at a protest in March 2021. She was Initially sentenced to three years, reduced to two years and suspended for three years. The court cited her youth and lack of awareness regarding the consequences of her actions for the suspended imprisonment. The air force has opposed a movement pressuring it to hand back two land plots, currently used as golf courses to the government for conversion into public parks. at ‘Dong Muang’ airport, The commander-in-chief of the air force said hundreds of workers would lose their jobs. Adding "In no way has the golf course caused a problem to the runway. A move forward MP, said the air force owns 155 plots of state land nationwide, some had been commercially developed. Around the region. Malaysia: The prison sentence of former Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak has been reduced by half, from 12 years to 6 years. Following a partial royal pardon granted for his involvement in the 1MDB case. His original fine of $44.4 million dollars has been decreased to an unspecified amount. With less than two years served, Najib could potentially be released in August 2026. WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: Sunny partly cloudy isolated showers 31C. Bangkok: Sunny partly cloudy 34C Pattaya: Sunny partly cloudy 31C Phuket and the south: Sunny 32C Hua Hin:Sunny Partly Cloudy 31C AQI Red 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 2024-02-01 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

Govt steps up campaign targeting the Bank of Thailand on interest rates by Joseph O' Connor Popular Pheu Thai figure and Prime Ministerial advisor, Mr Pichai Naripthaphan, a former deputy minister of finance. He is among a number of senior officials this week who have been highly critical of the central bank. Populist rhetoric rises as officials criticise the central bank’s monetary policy. The Government is pressuring the Bank of Thailand to cut rates, but its Governor stands firm. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1318583-govt-steps-up-campaign-targeting-the-bank-of-thailand-on-interest-rates/

Popular Pheu Thai figure and Prime Ministerial advisor, Mr Pichai Naripthaphan, a former deputy minister of finance. He is among a number of senior officials this week who have been highly critical of the central bank. Populist rhetoric rises as officials criticise the central bank’s monetary policy. The Government is pressuring the Bank of Thailand to cut rates, but its Governor stands firm. As the economy struggles in the face of chronic structural retardants, the government appears intent on creating a sense of alarm and crisis. Confidence in the economy is wavering. Ironically, if the dissent over interest rates intensifies, it risks provoking real trouble. The government in the last week has stepped up its populist rhetoric against the Bank of Thailand’s monetary policy. With press reports featured on Reuters and Bloomberg, successive officials and ministers have tried to create a sense of economic crisis. In the short term, this appears to be aimed at the next Bank of Thailand Monetary Policy Committee meeting on February 7. However, in the long term the commentary has a negative impact on confidence in both the government and the country’s economy. The commentary by officials and aides to the Prime Minister even took aim at the Bank of Thailand’s Governor’s annual salary at ฿20 million. It is not clear where this is leading but undoubtedly the ongoing spat is not helping. At the same time, Thailand must go back to the blackboard and address the country’s chronic structural problems. by Joseph O' Connor Full story: Thai Eaxaminer 2024-02-01 - 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 bus driver returns lost wallet to French tourists Picture: Siam Rath In the world of social media, praise is pouring in for the driver of Mini Bus No. 44 on the Kanchanaburi-Bangkok route, who not only collected the misplaced wallets of French tourists but also returned them. This heartwarming act, aimed at promoting tourism in Thailand, has gained significant attention online. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1318582-honest-bus-driver-returns-lost-wallet-to-french-tourists/

In the world of social media, praise is pouring in for the driver of Mini Bus No. 44 on the Kanchanaburi-Bangkok route, who not only collected the misplaced wallets of French tourists but also returned them. This heartwarming act, aimed at promoting tourism in Thailand, has gained significant attention online. According to reports from Kanchanaburi Tourist Police's Facebook page on January 31, 2023, the driver, known as Uncle, became a hero after he discovered wallets left behind by French tourists in his mini-bus. The accumulated money, a lifetime savings for their Thai vacation, was promptly returned, earning gratitude from the tourists, reported Siam Rath. News reporters on the scene found Officer Suchila, deputy superintendent of Kanchanaburi Tourist Police, who detailed the incident. Two French tourists reported the loss of their wallets on the Mini Bus No. 44, the final leg of their journey from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi, which arrived at 8:30 PM on January 30, 2023. Social media erupted with admiration, likes, shares, and numerous comments praising Uncle's honesty. Picture: Siam Rath The reporters also interviewed Officer Suchila, who conveyed that the wallets were found and returned thanks to swift coordination between the police and the bus company. The grateful tourists, a married couple, expressed joy and relief, highlighting that the lost money was their dedicated savings for a dream vacation in Thailand. Miss Kwan Khao Rungreung, a spokesperson for the bus company, revealed that the international passengers boarded the bus in Bangkok and reached Kanchanaburi on the final leg of their journey. The lost wallets were discovered during a morning check, and the diligent driver immediately reported the find. Mr. Kanta Sridara, the 59-year-old driver of Bus No. 44, commended the foreign tourists for their trust. He emphasized that the bags were untouched, maintaining the passengers' privacy. The driver's honesty and dedication to customer service were highly praised. Later on, we found out that the bus driver got a cash reward for doing something great. This happy story shows that the driver is honest and highlights how social media can spread good deeds. It also proves that Thailand is a welcoming and trustworthy place for tourists, encouraging people from around the world to think about visiting. The Thai Tourist Police are committed to helping tourists and set up a hotline, 1155, to be the first point of contact for visitors worldwide. Top Picture: Siam Rath -- ASEAN NOW 2024-02-01 - 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

Prachuap Khiri Khan’s chief abbot puts brakes on driving monks By Online Reporter The chief abbot of Prachuap Khiri Khan, Phra Rajaratnavisudhis, has reiterated the prohibition against monks and novices driving cars and motorcycles in public spaces, with allowances only in emergency situations. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1318581-prachuap-khiri-khan’s-chief-abbot-puts-brakes-on-driving-monks/

The chief abbot of Prachuap Khiri Khan, Phra Rajaratnavisudhis, has reiterated the prohibition against monks and novices driving cars and motorcycles in public spaces, with allowances only in emergency situations. The announcement was made during the monthly meeting of government department heads in Prachuap Khiri Khan, held on January 31, 2024. Phra Rajaratnavisudhis, who also serves as the abbot of Wat Kui Buri, addressed the issue as part of his discourse, highlighting the inappropriateness of monks engaging in such activities. The stance stems from a 2020 resolution by the Sangha Supreme Council, which directed the Royal Thai Police to oversee the compliance of monks and novices with this rule, treating them as ordinary citizens in this regard. By Online Reporter Full story: HUA HIN TODAY 2024-02-01 - 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

Hua Hin’s rail developments: The differences between dual track and high-speed train lines By Online Reporter High speed train. File photo The opening of Hua Hin’s new elevated train station on December 15 marked a significant milestone in the region’s transportation development. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1318580-hua-hin’s-rail-developments-the-differences-between-dual-track-and-high-speed-train-lines/

The opening of Hua Hin’s new elevated train station on December 15 marked a significant milestone in the region’s transportation development. However, there seems to be a lingering confusion among the public, as observed in comments on our website and social media platforms. Some people are conflating the new dual track train line with the high-speed train project, which is, in fact, a separate initiative. To clear the air, we delve into the specifics of these two distinct rail projects. The Dual Track Line The recently inaugurated dual track train line, which includes the new elevated train station in Hua Hin, is a significant enhancement to the existing rail network. By Online Reporter TOP: High speed train. File photo Full story: HUA HIN TODAY 2024-02-01 - 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

Pattaya Man Shot to Death Waiting at Traffic Light, Suspect Identified but At Large By Tanakorn Panyadee Pattaya —A shooting incident at a North Pattaya traffic light intersection early Wednesday morning left one person dead. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1318579-pattaya-man-shot-to-death-waiting-at-traffic-light-suspect-identified-but-at-large/

Pattaya —A shooting incident at a North Pattaya traffic light intersection early Wednesday morning left one person dead. The victim, identified as Mr. Panya Khayanngan, 39, an entertainment establishment guard in Pattaya, was shot multiple times while waiting at the traffic light. He was rushed to the hospital but succumbed to his injuries shortly afterward. The incident transpired around 6:16 AM on January 31st at an intersection in North Pattaya, Naklua sub-district, Banglamung district, Chonburi province. Pattaya police and rescue personnel arrived at the scene to find Mr. Panya’s overturned motorcycle and his body riddled with bullet wounds. Police collected from the scene four 9 mm bullet casings and one bullet. An eyewitness, identified only as Mr. Teoy, reported seeing the assailant approach Mr. Panya, while he was waiting at the traffic light, and opened fire before fleeing the scene. By Tanakorn Panyadee Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-02-01 - 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

Increasing Number of Migrant Beggars in Pattaya Raise Concerns Among Residents and Tourists By Tanakorn Panyadee Pattaya — Migrant people, including families with young children, disabled individuals, and elderly, have been spotted begging for money near Pattaya Beach, causing discomfort and concern among residents and tourists. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1318578-increasing-number-of-migrant-beggars-in-pattaya-raise-concerns-among-residents-and-tourists/