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A call for the immediate release of all hostages held by Hamas in the Gaza Strip, initiated by the Israeli embassy, has met with opposition from the Thai government. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister, Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara, expressed his disapproval of the move on Tuesday. He has requested a meeting with the Israeli ambassador for a discussion on the issue. The Thai government is currently in negotiations to secure the release of eight Thai hostages. Parnpree stated that Thailand is keen to avoid causing any misunderstandings among the parties involved in the conflict. “Thailand is friends with every country… Most importantly, Thailand must ensure that all the Thai hostages are safe and can return home. We don’t want any country to use Thailand as a platform to create conflict,” he said. Parnpree emphasised the government’s commitment to the wellbeing of the Thai hostages, and mentioned that they are exploring various avenues to secure their release. He also mentioned that the Thai government is in talks with countries that have offered assistance. Parnpree, along with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, are currently representing Thailand at the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland. With Qatar’s Prime Minister also in attendance, Parnpree intends to engage in discussions, given Qatar’s previous assistance in securing the release of Thai hostages. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara (X) Full story: The Thaiger 2024-01-17 - 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 air force to battle surging fine dust pollution crisis by of Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of iStock With fine dust pollution surging to alarming levels in Thailand, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has tasked the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) with spearheading the nation’s countermeasures. Air Force Chief, ACM Phanpakdee Pattanakul, confirmed the directive on Tuesday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1317280-thai-air-force-to-battle-surging-fine-dust-pollution-crisis/

With fine dust pollution surging to alarming levels in Thailand, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has tasked the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) with spearheading the nation’s countermeasures. Air Force Chief, ACM Phanpakdee Pattanakul, confirmed the directive on Tuesday. The Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (Gistda) revealed that the provinces of Samut Songkhram and Samut Sakhon are presently grappling with high levels of particulate matter 2.5 micrometres or less in diameter (PM2.5). As of 10am on Tuesday, these two provinces were marked in red, indicating dangerously high levels of PM2.5. The safe threshold for PM2.5 is 37.5 microgrammes per cubic metre (µg/m³). However, the dust levels in Samut Songkhram and Samut Sakhon were recorded at an alarming 90.3 µg/m³ and 75.8 µg/m³ respectively. Moreover, moderately dangerous levels of fine particles were observed in 18 other provinces across the country. Ratchaburi, with a dust level of 67.6 µg/m³, topped the “orange” zones, marking areas with moderate risk, reported Bangkok Post. In the capital city of Bangkok, the district of Nong Khaem registered the highest PM2.5 level at 58.6 µg/m³. Other districts such as Don Muang (56.2 µg/m³), Lak Si (52.1), Thawi Watthana (49.4), and Bang Bon (48.7) also reported high levels of PM2.5. by of Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of iStock Full story: The Thaiger 2024-01-17 - 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

The cost, benefits, and implication of cash handout programs By Arun Saronchai Government cash handout programs, widely adopted as a quick response to economic downturns and crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, have spurred much debate regarding their effectiveness as a stimulus. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1317279-the-cost-benefits-and-implication-of-cash-handout-programs/

Government cash handout programs, widely adopted as a quick response to economic downturns and crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, have spurred much debate regarding their effectiveness as a stimulus. While these programs inject immediate liquidity into the economy and aid those in dire need, their long-term efficacy in stimulating sustainable economic growth remains questionable, as evidenced by various real-world examples. One of the primary issues with such handouts is their temporary nature. Immediate Impact vs. Long-Term Effectiveness The primary appeal of cash handout programs is their ability to provide immediate financial assistance to those in need, particularly during unforeseen crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. For instance, the United States, under the Trump administration, executed payments totaling $931 billion to mitigate the economic impact of the pandemic. These payments, part of larger stimulus packages, aimed to alleviate the financial burden on individuals and families, thereby boosting consumer spending and, in theory, stimulating the economy. However, the effectiveness of these programs in creating sustainable economic growth is less clear. While they inject liquidity into the economy, leading to a short-term increase in consumer spending, this does not necessarily translate into long-term economic benefits. In many cases, these handouts are used to cover immediate expenses and do not contribute to productive investment or economic growth. By Arun Saronchai Full story: THA ENQUIRER 2024-01-17 - 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 17 January 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1317278-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-wednesday-17-january-2024/

The government has expressed disagreement with a recent campaign by the Israeli embassy calling for the immediate release of all hostages held by Hamas, Talks are ongoing to secure the release of eight Thai hostages, Thailand's foreign minister is in Davos and will invite the ambassador to israel to discuss the matter, further discussions are likely with the prime minister of Qatar. Prime Minister Thavisin has instructed the Royal Thai Air Force to deal with the worsening fine-dust air pollution. The airforce is likely to use its radar to locate hotspots and deploy aircraft to spray water droplets in an attempt to reduce pollution. The Move Forward Party is investigating a serious assault on an aide to one of its MPs, least 20 men allegedly attacked Mr Kittiphat last Saturday, he then ran into a nearby convenience store but was followed and assaulted again by two men from the group, Mr Kittiphat is recovering in hospital having sustained a fractured skull. Police have concluded the death of a young female model was suicide due to cyanide poisoning, The 28 year old was found dead at her Bangkok condominium in November, with a suicide note written to her boyfriend, medication for depression was also found, Police say her phone showed she had ordered cyanide online. Around The Region China summoned the ambassador of the Philippines yesterday after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr congratulated Taiwan's president-elect Lai Ching-te on his election victory. The move came after Beijing rebuked countries that congratulated Lai on his victory, including the United States, Japan, Singapore and several European nations. Chiang Mai and the north: isolated showers, clearing up 30C Bangkok: Sunny partly cloudy 34 Pattaya: Sunny partly cloudy, 33 Phuket and the south: Sunny partly cloudy, 31C Hua Hin: Sunny, light cloud 31 AQI Orange which is moderate 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 2024-01-17 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

Ladyboy-Led Heist: Korean Tourist Loses 200,000 Baht Gold Necklace in Pattaya Picture: Siam Rath A 51-year-old tourist from Korea, Mr. Seongmu Heo, along with his 43-year-old Thai companion, Ms. Surat Konin, found themselves ensnared in a daring incident of theft in Pattaya. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1317277-ladyboy-led-heist-korean-tourist-loses-200000-baht-gold-necklace-in-pattaya/

A 51-year-old tourist from Korea, Mr. Seongmu Heo, along with his 43-year-old Thai companion, Ms. Surat Konin, found themselves ensnared in a daring incident of theft in Pattaya. Seeking aid from the media, the duo recounted an encounter with a trio of individuals who, through aggressive actions, seized a gold necklace valued at US$6,000 on January 16th, 2023, around 4:00 PM, reported Siam Rath. Mr. Heo narrated the incident, revealing that the perpetrators targeted them while they were enjoying the coastal ambiance near Pattaya's Soi 5-6. Engaging them in conversation, the transvestites offered various services and made suggestive gestures. Disturbed by the situation, Mr. Heo skillfully distanced himself from the group, only later realizing the absence of his gold necklace. Despite filing a report with the local police, progress in apprehending the suspects remains elusive. Expressing discontent with the lack of surveillance cameras in the bustling tourist locale, Mr. Heo emphasized the pressing need for law enforcement to expedite the investigation and ensure justice for the perpetrators. The victim, who had been relishing a holiday in Pattaya since January 1st, articulated a desire for a swift resolution, urging authorities to bolster security in frequented tourist areas to deter future incidents of a similar nature. Picture: Siam Rath -- ASEAN NOW 2024-01-17 - 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

Japanese Police Delegation Explores Thai Tourist Police Operations Picture: Siam Rath On January 16, 2024, Lieutenant General Sak Siraphuekam, Commander-in-Chief of the Tourist Police, warmly received Mr. Doi Yuichiro, Secretary and Coordinator of the Aged Affairs Division at the Japanese Embassy in Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1317275-japanese-police-delegation-explores-thai-tourist-police-operations/

On January 16, 2024, Lieutenant General Sak Siraphuekam, Commander-in-Chief of the Tourist Police, warmly received Mr. Doi Yuichiro, Secretary and Coordinator of the Aged Affairs Division at the Japanese Embassy in Thailand. Mr. Doi led a delegation of 36 esteemed Japanese police officials from the National Police Agency, focusing on comprehensive criminal investigations across the nation, reported Siam Rath. Picture: Siam Rath During the visit, Lt. Gen. Sak Siraphuekam offered a detailed overview of the Thai Tourist Police's organizational structure and responsibilities. The delegation seized a distinctive opportunity to explore the emergency hotline center (1155) and firsthand witness the operational procedures at the command and control center. Picture: Siam Rath Furthermore, the Thai Tourist Police demonstrated their proficiency in bicycle patrol techniques, emphasizing their steadfast dedication to ensuring the safety of global tourists. Lt. Gen. Sak Siraphuekam highlighted the significance of collaborative efforts and knowledge exchange between Thai and Japanese law enforcement agencies, aiming to elevate and fortify tourism security measures. Picture: Siam Rath Picture: Siam Rath -- ASEAN NOW 2024-01-17 - 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

Move Forward Party Scandal: Nonthaburi MPs’ New Year Brawl Unveils Over 20 Suspects Under Police Scrutiny By Kittisak Phalaharn Nonthaburi—At 10:30 AM, on January 16th, 2024, Mr. Parit Wacharasindhu, the spokesman for the Move Forward Party, publicly revealed the progress of the investigation into the case of Nonthaburi MPs physically attacking each other at a New Year party on January 13th. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1317274-move-forward-party-scandal-nonthaburi-mps’-new-year-brawl-unveils-over-20-suspects-under-police-scrutiny/

Nonthaburi—At 10:30 AM, on January 16th, 2024, Mr. Parit Wacharasindhu, the spokesman for the Move Forward Party, publicly revealed the progress of the investigation into the case of Nonthaburi MPs physically attacking each other at a New Year party on January 13th. According to a report by the police, Mr. Kittipat Suriyachan, the personal assistant to Mrs. Panyarat Nanthaphusitanon, Nonthaburi District 2 MP, was severely assaulted by more than 20 individuals during a New Year party on January 13th, at Wat Pho Phueak, Bang Kruai, Nonthaburi. Currently, the police officers performed an investigation and gathered CCTV footage to hold involved individuals accountable for physical assault offenses. The spokesman for the Move Forward Party stated to Thai media that the justice process involved the police which were currently investigating for evidence and perpetrators, and the party’s internal investigation process through the disciplinary committee. By Kittisak Phalaharn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-01-17 - 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: Mother, Son, and Girlfriend Arrested, Facing Potential Life in Prison for Murdering Pattaya Bolt Taxi Driver By Tanakorn Panyadee A 23-year-old murder suspect, his mom, and girlfriend are being detained by Nongprue police after they colluded to murder a Pattaya-based Bolt driver and burn his body this past weekend. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1317273-update-mother-son-and-girlfriend-arrested-facing-potential-life-in-prison-for-murdering-pattaya-bolt-taxi-driver/

A 23-year-old murder suspect, his mom, and girlfriend are being detained by Nongprue police after they colluded to murder a Pattaya-based Bolt driver and burn his body this past weekend. 23-year-old Mr. Thiraporn Somkham, his 51-year-old mother, Mrs. Elijah (family name withheld), and his 16-year-old girlfriend (name withheld) are currently detained at the Nongprue Police Station as of January 16th, 2024. The three were apprehended on Monday in connection with a recent fatal stabbing and the subsequent burning of the body of a ride-sharing Bolt driver, Mr. Thanathip Watthaisong. The 31-year-old Thai driver had an argument with Mr. Thiraporn after he refused to pay the ride fare, leading to Mr. Thiraporn fatally stabbing Mr. Thanathip in the chest. Mr. Thiraporn’s mother became involved in this gruesome crime after her son confessed to the police that he called her after stabbing the victim asking for advice, and then decided to burn the body, allegedly following his mother’s instructions. His girlfriend, a minor, also helped the suspect get rid of the body, as stated by Nongprue police, although it was unclear what her exact role was. According to The Pattaya News reporters, the three suspects appeared visibly stressed during the fingerprint identification process and questioning at the police station around 9:30 AM on January 16th. They also refused to answer reporters’ inquiries. By Tanakorn Panyadee Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-01-17 - 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

Chiang Mai Night Safari confirms four zoo animals died, not 13 by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Daily News Kritsada Lapimon, Deputy Director of the Pinkanakorn Office and Director of the Central Administration Office performing duties on behalf of the Director of the Pinkanakorn Development Office, chaired a press conference to clarify the number of deaths of animals at the Chiang Mai Night Safari yesterday, January 15. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1317272-chiang-mai-night-safari-confirms-four-zoo-animals-died-not-13/

Kritsada Lapimon, Deputy Director of the Pinkanakorn Office and Director of the Central Administration Office performing duties on behalf of the Director of the Pinkanakorn Development Office, chaired a press conference to clarify the number of deaths of animals at the Chiang Mai Night Safari yesterday, January 15. Thitirat Tawanwong, Deputy Director of the Pinkanakorn Development Office and Director of Chiang Mai Night Safari along with animal expert Dr Sumet Kamonranat, Chatri Khuhatheparak, Director of Animal Management, and Dr Tulyawat Suthiphaet, supervisor at Conservation and Research were present at the press conference at Vareekunchorn Building, Chiang Mai Night Safari Office. Kritsada stated that the number of animals found dead at the Chiang Mai Night Safari as reported previously was erroneous. Pinkanakorn Development Office has checked and confirmed the details and facts. From the investigation of animal deaths in December last year, the Chiang Mai Night Safari Office confirms that four animals died, a red-shanked douc, a Vulpini, a fennec fox and a leopard cat. The number that had been previously reported, 13, is false, reported Daily News. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Daily News Full story: The Thaiger 2024-01-17 - 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

Dazzling International Pattaya Fireworks Show Set to Return in November 2024 Bigger Than Ever Before By Tanakorn Panyadee Get ready to be dazzled once again! The Pattaya City administration has announced the return of the Pattaya International Fireworks Festival in 2024, promising even more breathtaking displays than ever before! Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1317271-dazzling-international-pattaya-fireworks-show-set-to-return-in-november-2024-bigger-than-ever-before/

Get ready to be dazzled once again! The Pattaya City administration has announced the return of the Pattaya International Fireworks Festival in 2024, promising even more breathtaking displays than ever before! The recent 2023 festival, held on November 24th-25th, was a resounding success, with colorful fireworks painting the night sky and electrifying the entire city. Pattaya City expressed its pride in the festival’s recognition after announcing great news that the festival has been awarded the prestigious title of being one of the top 3 sea tourism festivals in Asia for two consecutive years by IFEA-Asia, the international tourism association. By Tanakorn Panyadee Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-01-17 - 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

Danish Woman Injured by Waves in Phang Nga By Goongnang Suksawat Phang Nga – A Danish tourist has sustained injuries after she was hit by waves at a beach in Phang Nga. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1317270-danish-woman-injured-by-waves-in-phang-nga/

Phang Nga – A Danish tourist has sustained injuries after she was hit by waves at a beach in Phang Nga. The Khao Lampi Hat Thai Mueang National Park staff told the Phuket Express earlier this week that they were notified of the incident at the Tha Mao Beach in the national park area. An unidentified 60 year-old female Danish tourist was playing in the water. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-01-17 - 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

Dengue fever claims lives in Songkhla province amid rising cases by Nattapong Westwood PHOTO: via India Today A female doctor from Songkhla Province tragically succumbed to dengue fever, marking the latest fatality in a year that has seen 7,400 cases and 10 deaths in the area. Authorities issued a warning today as the dengue fever situation in the province remains concerning. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1317269-dengue-fever-claims-lives-in-songkhla-province-amid-rising-cases/

A female doctor from Songkhla Province tragically succumbed to dengue fever, marking the latest fatality in a year that has seen 7,400 cases and 10 deaths in the area. Authorities issued a warning today as the dengue fever situation in the province remains concerning. Over the past week, there have been reports of two fatalities: the first being a female doctor affiliated with Songkla Nakarin Hospital, Hat Yai District, and the second, a child in Khlong Hoi Khong District. This sparked anxiety and a call for the public to be more aware and knowledgeable about the seriousness of dengue fever to mitigate future risks and potential fatalities. Dr Kusak Bamrungsena, Deputy Public Health Doctor of Songkhla Province, stated that the dengue fever situation in the first month of 2024 is a repercussion of the outbreak in 2023. This is considered a cycle of the dengue fever outbreak. Doctors warn not to neglect dengue fever in children, despite the decreasing trend of illness. It is recommended to rush to the hospital if symptoms appear, hoping for a miraculous recovery. Kung Suthirat revealed that his younger sister is still in critical condition, suffering from brain swelling. Doctors are doing their best and taking it day by day. by Nattapong Westwood PHOTO: via India Today Full story: The Thaiger 2024-01-17 - 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 AirAsia merger grounded till 2027 by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of ch-aviation The consolidation of AirAsia (AAB) and AirAsia X (AAX) might be a lengthy affair, extending up to 2027, according to Executive Chairman Tassapon Bijleveld. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1317268-thai-airasia-merger-grounded-till-2027/

The consolidation of AirAsia (AAB) and AirAsia X (AAX) might be a lengthy affair, extending up to 2027, according to Executive Chairman Tassapon Bijleveld. The merger, aimed at creating a powerhouse in the industry, faces delays as AAX grapples with its ongoing rehabilitation process. Last week, AAX made a revelation on the Malaysian stock exchange, announcing a non-binding letter of intent to acquire AAB and AirAsia Aviation Group (AAAGL) from Capital A. The master plan is to amalgamate the airlines under AAB and AAAGL into one. AAB operates AirAsia (AK) out of Kuala Lumpur International, while AAAGL commands AirAsia Cambodia, Indonesia AirAsia, AirAsia Philippines, and Thai AirAsia, in collaboration with local partners. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of ch-aviation Full story: The Thaiger 2024-01-17 - 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