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Thailand’s media spending to see 4% growth driven by online and TV by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of iStock Anticipating a 4% growth in media spending this year, mirroring the trend from 2023, the market is set to be driven by online, TV, and out-of-home media. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1317897-thailand’s-media-spending-to-see-4-growth-driven-by-online-and-tv/

Anticipating a 4% growth in media spending this year, mirroring the trend from 2023, the market is set to be driven by online, TV, and out-of-home media. This predicted growth is attributed to political stability and economic stimulus initiatives introduced by the government. The burgeoning e-commerce platform landscape has catapulted affiliate marketing into a key media tool for brands. This trend is particularly visible amid the rising competition between key players Lazada, Shopee, and TikTok, according to Pawat Ruangdejworachai, the President and Chief Executive of Media Intelligence Group (MI). “Marketing technology and data-driven marketing will likely shrink advertising in traditional media to 20% in the next few years, while online is projected to comprise half of total spending by 2025,” Pawat stated. “Thailand’s media spending will continue to grow by 4% in 2024, close to the 2023 level, thanks to the rebounding economy, tourism and government assistance measure,” Pawat added. Potential hurdles in this path include high household debt, mounting living expenses, and the pressure on small and medium-sized enterprises. by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of iStock Full story: The Thaiger 2024-01-24 - 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: JN.1 Omicron sub-variant linked to surge in Thai hospitalisations by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of iStock The JN.1 sub-variant of the Omicron Covid-19 variant has been implicated in a recent rise in hospitalisations and over 10 fatalities last week. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1317848-surge-in-covid-19-infections-and-rising-death-toll-in-thailand/?do=findComment&comment=18640617

JN.1 Omicron sub-variant linked to surge in Thai hospitalisations by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of iStock The JN.1 sub-variant of the Omicron Covid-19 variant has been implicated in a recent rise in hospitalisations and over 10 fatalities last week. The majority of those hospitalised were elder individuals who had not received a vaccine or booster shots. The Department of Disease Control (DDC) reported 718 fresh Covid cases last week, yielding a daily average of 102 new cases, with 11 fatalities through to the week ending January 20. This figure presents an increase from the preceding week, which saw an average of 93 new cases daily. The DDC also reported four Covid related deaths that week. Of the 718 cases recorded last week, 209 patients developed severe pneumonia, and 149 of those required endotracheal intubation. As per the DDC, all the fatalities last week were from the 608 at-risk groups, primarily elder individuals with chronic conditions. Six of the deceased were unvaccinated, while the others had received only two doses of the vaccine, reported Bangkok Post. Full story: The Thaiger 2024-01-24 - 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 military and police ramp up counter-drone tech training by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Defence Technology Institute The Royal Thai Armed Forces and Royal Thai Police are set to enhance their focus on counter-drone technology training as part of their yearly exercises and drills. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1317893-thai-military-and-police-ramp-up-counter-drone-tech-training/

The Royal Thai Armed Forces and Royal Thai Police are set to enhance their focus on counter-drone technology training as part of their yearly exercises and drills. This decision was made public at a joint meeting of military and police commanders, steered by Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Songwit Noonpackdee. The session was an avenue for discussing plans for capacity building for both forces until 2027, in which the importance of counter-drone technology and intelligence gathering was highlighted. Gen Songwit emphasised the need for such training during the meeting, which took place ahead of a new joint exercise involving civilians, police and soldiers commencing today. This annual training regimen will be succeeded by Cobra Gold 2024, set to take place in military zones under the First Army Region’s control and the Gulf of Thailand, reported Bangkok Post. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Defence Technology Institute Full story: The Thaiger 2024-01-24 - 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 - Wednesday 24 January 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1317892-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-wednesday-24-january-2024/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has promised groups opposing the government's Land Bridge megaproject, that he will consider their calls, including one for a committee to study the project before its implementation. The proposed bridge would require a deep-water port in both Rayon and Chumphon, and consist of motorway and railway access at each end. Opposition groups urged the government to provide access to parties who might be impacted by the Land Bridge and organise public hearings. German President Frank Stein-meier begins a state visit to Thailand today It is the first trip by a German president to this country in 22 years. The number of Cases of people catching the latest sub-variant of Covid-19 rose last week, resulting in an increase in hospital admissions and 11 deaths. Most hospital patients were elderly had not received booster vaccinations; others were suffering from a chronic disease. A joint meeting of commanders of the Royal Thai Armed Forces and Police were told More training in counter drone technology and and intelligence gathering will be incorporated into the armed forces' drills this year, The meeting was ahead of join police and military exercises that begin today. An 8-year-old boy named “Shane” Promwaen was due to attempt to Kitefoil over 100 kms across the Gulf of Thailand from Jomtien beach Pattaya to PranBuri this morning wind conditions permitting. Shane aims to become the youngest World Champion in Wing Foiling and to eventually represent Thailand in the Olympics. Around the region North Korea has demolished a major monument in its capital that symbolised the goal of reconciliation with South Korea. The demolition was ordered by leader Kim Jong Un, who last week called the south a "primary foe" and said unification was no longer possible. WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: Sunny partly cloudy, 30C Bangkok: Cloudy, rain clearing up this afternoon 30C Pattaya: Cloudy31C Phuket and the south: Sunny partly cloudy 32C Hua Hin : Cloudy with rain clearing up this afternoon 28C AQI yellow and Orange which is moderate to high. 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 2024-01-24 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

Garbage Truck Tragedy: 2 Workers on Roof Fatally Struck, Unable to React in Time Picture: Thai Rath The incident occurred on January 23, 2024, at around 3:10 PM on the motorway connecting Bang Yai and Kanchanaburi in Tambon Takramen, Amphoe Thamaka, Kanchanaburi Province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1317890-garbage-truck-tragedy-2-workers-on-roof-fatally-struck-unable-to-react-in-time/

The incident occurred on January 23, 2024, at around 3:10 PM on the motorway connecting Bang Yai and Kanchanaburi in Tambon Takramen, Amphoe Thamaka, Kanchanaburi Province. The victims, identified as Mr. Apinyo Benchachat, 25, and Mr. Naranong Sakdang, 27, both employees of the Takramen Subdistrict Administrative Organization (TAO), were seated on top of the garbage truck when the driver failed to notice the low clearance of the underpass. The collision resulted in fatal head injuries for both workers, reported Thai Rath. Picture: Thai Rath Emergency services were immediately notified, and the injured workers were rushed to Makarak Hospital. Both individuals succumbed to their injuries, with one pronounced dead on the scene and the other at the hospital. Preliminary investigations revealed that the underpass, with a height of 4 meters and a width of 10 meters, was not on the usual route of the garbage truck. The driver, in an attempt to avoid further danger, swiftly drove about a kilometer to park in front of the Takramen Health Promotion Hospital, seeking assistance. The accident was captured on nearby surveillance cameras, showing the workers seated atop the moving truck, oblivious to the impending danger. Authorities suspect that the workers may have climbed onto the garbage load, fearing it might spill over, leading to the tragic incident. Additionally, information obtained from a local shop owner at the intersection indicated that garbage trucks typically operated during the early morning hours, but on this particular day, they were collecting in the evening. The change in collection schedule may have contributed to the unfortunate circumstances. As investigations continue, the police will coordinate with Kanchanaburi authorities to reexamine the accident site, gather evidence, and summon the garbage truck driver for a statement to proceed with legal actions. Top Picture: Thai Rath -- ASEAN NOW 2024-01-24 - 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

Is changing the age of criminal responsibility in Thailand wise By Lynn Sasinpong In recent weeks, there was a chorus of voices throughout social media, and even by the police chief, calling for the government to lower the age of criminal responsibility in Thailand from 15 to 12 years old. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1317889-is-changing-the-age-of-criminal-responsibility-in-thailand-wise/

In recent weeks, there was a chorus of voices throughout social media, and even by the police chief, calling for the government to lower the age of criminal responsibility in Thailand from 15 to 12 years old. This comes after the tragic events earlier this month where five teenagers, with ages ranging from 13 to 16 years old, were caught on security camera attacking “Auntie Kob” (ป้ากบ), a middle-aged woman in Sao Kaeo province. Her body was later found ditched in a lake. This event is also followed by the shooting at Siam Paragon shopping centre last October by a mentally-ill 14 year old teenager, killing three people and injuring four more–an incident in the heart of Bangkok that shocked Thailand and raised tough questions about gun control, punishment for serious crimes, and mental illness. In Thai law, a child younger than 15 years old cannot be held criminally liable for their acts. However, the court can impose measures for behavourial control, including formally admonishing the child and their parents or legal guardian, imposing safeguards such as a probation officer to oversee the child’s behaviour, or ordering the child to be cared for by an appropriate individual, organization, or institution. By Lynn Sasinpong Full story: THAI ENQUIRER 2024-01-24 - 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

Indonesian National Arrested in Thailand for Forex Investment Scam and Overstaying Picture: Siam Rath In a proactive move to combat crime, Thailand's National Police, led by Lt. Gen. Torasak Sukwimol, the Police Commissioner, and Lt. Gen. Surachet Hakpal, the Deputy Police Commissioner, executed measures to prevent and suppress illegal activities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1317888-indonesian-national-arrested-in-thailand-for-forex-investment-scam-and-overstaying/

In a proactive move to combat crime, Thailand's National Police, led by Lt. Gen. Torasak Sukwimol, the Police Commissioner, and Lt. Gen. Surachet Hakpal, the Deputy Police Commissioner, executed measures to prevent and suppress illegal activities. The immigration police detained a 39-year-old Indonesian man who had overstayed in Thailand for over two years and was accused of involvement in a fraudulent forex investment scheme. Under the supervision of Pol. Lt. Gen. Itthipon Itthisarnrat, the STAM Commander, and with the collaboration of various police units, the authorities apprehended the suspect, referred to as Paul (a pseudonym), following an investigation that revealed his involvement in deceiving investors with a total loss estimated at approximately 320 million Thai Baht, reported Siam Rath. The arrest occurred based on information gathered through advanced information technology systems, indicating that Paul had been residing in Thailand beyond the authorized period. Interpol had also issued a red notice for his arrest, highlighting his alleged involvement in fraud. Paul is accused of manipulating individuals into investing in the forex market, causing significant financial harm. Picture: Siam Rath Upon capturing Paul, the police discovered that he had purchased a luxurious house worth more than 8 million Thai Baht in a suburban area of Nonthaburi Province, using his Thai wife's name as the buyer. Subsequently, a search warrant was obtained from the Nonthaburi Provincial Court, leading to the discovery of cash in Singaporean dollars and other assets, totaling around 2 million Thai Baht, inside a safe in his bedroom. During questioning, Paul admitted to being the subject of an Indonesian arrest warrant for fraudulently persuading victims to invest in forex, resulting in substantial financial losses. He had evaded arrest in Indonesia and had been hiding in Thailand, confident he would not be pursued. Picture: Siam Rath In response to the arrest, Pol. Lt. Gen. Prapansak Prasansuk, the STAM Deputy Commander, ordered a comprehensive investigation into Paul's activities, ensuring that legal proceedings would be conducted in adherence to Thai law. The authorities are determined to address cases involving foreign nationals engaged in illegal activities within the country, safeguarding the well-being and assets of Thai citizens and preserving the nation's reputation. TOP Picture: Siam Rath -- ASEAN NOW 2024-01-24 - 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

German president’s state visit to Thailand after 22 years sparks hope by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier has embarked on a state visit to Thailand, commencing today, following an invitation extended by Srettha Thavisin, the Prime Minister of Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1317887-german-president’s-state-visit-to-thailand-after-22-years-sparks-hope/

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier has embarked on a state visit to Thailand, commencing today, following an invitation extended by Srettha Thavisin, the Prime Minister of Thailand. This marks the first visit by a German President to Thailand in 22 years, as stated by Chai Watcharonke, the Thai Government spokesperson. The three-day visit has its highlight set for tomorrow, where a discussion on trade, investment, climate change, and vocational education will take place between Steinmeier and Srettha. German private sector representatives are set to be present at this event. A joint press conference will follow this discussion, succeeded by a lunch meeting, according to Chai. The Thai government harbours expectations that this visit will amplify the cooperation between the two nations. Chai revealed that the German President has planned visits to industries that Germany perceives to have significant development potential. These include gas and electronic-based car manufacturers, a hydro-floating solar hybrid power plant, and a sustainable rice cropping company, reported Bangkok Post. Promoting knowledge and cultural exchanges, Steinmeier’s itinerary also includes tourist sites such as Pha Taem National Park in Ubon Ratchathani and the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) in Bangkok. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Full story: The Thaiger 2024-01-24 - 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

Prachuap Khiri Khan officials undergo anti-corruption training By Online Reporter Officials in Prachuap Khiri Khan, including some of Hua Hin Municipality have undergone training aimed at towards bolstering integrity and transparency within government operations. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1317884-prachuap-khiri-khan-officials-undergo-anti-corruption-training/

Officials in Prachuap Khiri Khan, including some of Hua Hin Municipality have undergone training aimed at towards bolstering integrity and transparency within government operations. Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, in collaboration with the Office of the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) of Prachuap Khiri Khan, has launched a comprehensive training program in a bid to elevate the integrity and transparency assessment scores of state agencies in the province. On January 22, key municipal officials from Hua Hin participated in the training program held at the Koh Lak Meeting Room, Prachuap Khiri Khan Provincial Hall. Among the attendees were Mr. Jeerawat Pramani, the Municipal Clerk of Hua Hin, Ms. Jutarat Narathas, Head of General Administration at the Municipal Clerk’s Office, and Miss Sophida Phongdi, a Skilled Administrative Officer from the same office. Full story: HUA HIN TODAY 2024-01-24 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Tourist riding in Convertible with Lion Cub under investigation A Thai woman has been identified as the owner of a young lion, recently taken on a ride in a convertible in Pattaya. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1317838-big-cat-cruising/

Thai Government Officials to Probe Tourist Riding in Convertible with Lion Cub in Pattaya By Tanakorn Panyadee PHOTO: Khaosod Pattaya — The Thai National Parks Department is launching an investigation into a foreign man who was spotted driving through the street of Pattaya in a Bentley, accompanied by what appears to be a lion cub in the back seat. The incident came to light from a viral TikTok video posted by a user named “Ann Isaan Russia (แอน อีสานรัสเซีย)”. The clip clearly depicted a white lion sitting in a luxurious open-roof Bentley, traversing on the busy street of Pattaya. In the footage, several motorists appeared concerned and somewhat apprehensive about the lion’s presence, given the proximity between them and the animal. However, the lion itself seemed calm and domesticated and appeared to have a collar and leash. In response to the incident, Mr. Atthaphon Charoenchansa, the Director-General of the Department of National Parks, immediately assigned relevant officials to investigate the incident. Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-01-24 - 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

Wreckage Of T-28 Light Attack Aircraft Retrieved From Mekong River By Thai Newsroom Reporters Parts of a T-28 Trojan aircraft wreckage found in Nong Khai today, Jan. 23. 2024. Photos: Sanook.com SOME PARTS OF THE wreckage of a US-built T-28 Trojan aircraft were inadvertently found by villagers and then retrieved by police from Mekong river in Nong Khai today (Jan.23). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1317879-wreckage-of-t-28-light-attack-aircraft-retrieved-from-mekong-river/

SOME PARTS OF THE wreckage of a US-built T-28 Trojan aircraft were inadvertently found by villagers and then retrieved by police from Mekong river in Nong Khai today (Jan.23). The remains of the North American Aviation T-28 Trojan light attack aircraft were retrieved by the Explosive Ordnance Disposal police from the sandy bed of the Mekong River in Thabor district of the northeastern province after they had been told of the unintended discovery by the local villagers who had gone fishing in the ebbing international river, the police said. The turboprop, two-seat T-28, believed to have been deployed in counter-insurgency missions of the Lao air force during the Vietnam War, may have accidentally nosedived into the river as the unknown pilot may have suddenly lost control of his aircraft. The T-28’s crash into the river was believed to have occurred about six decades earlier, the police said. By Thai Newsroom Reporters TOP: Parts of a T-28 Trojan aircraft wreckage found in Nong Khai today, Jan. 23. 2024. Photos: Sanook.com Full story: THAI NEWSROOM 2024-01-24 - 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

Overstaying Israeli Man Arrested in Patong after Allegedly Trying to Rob a Woman at an Exchange Booth By Goongnang Suksawat Patong – An overstaying Israeli man was arrested after he was allegedly trying to rob a potential victim at an exchange booth in Patong. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1317878-overstaying-israeli-man-arrested-in-patong-after-allegedly-trying-to-rob-a-woman-at-an-exchange-booth/

Patong – An overstaying Israeli man was arrested after he was allegedly trying to rob a potential victim at an exchange booth in Patong. The Patong Police told the Phuket Express that a female victim, whose name was withheld for her privacy, who was a staffer working at an exchange booth on the Phra Baramee Road filed a report to the Patong Police. She told the police that on New Year’s Eve December 31st, 2023, just after midnight, a foreign man tried to rob her at the exchange booth. The man covered his face and allegedly approached her and grabbed her neck with both hands. The victim screamed out loud and tried to fight back before the suspect sped away. He did not get anything from her or the exchange booth. The Patong Police continued their investigation and on Monday (January 22nd) they finally arrested a 26-year-old Israeli man. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-01-24 - 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 Wednesday 24 January 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1317877-thailand-live-wednesday-24-january-2024/