webfact

Three ex-Bhumjaithai MPs banned by Supreme Court by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Transcontinental Times The Supreme Court delivered a harsh blow to three former Bhumjaithai MPs, slamming them with a 10-year ban from contesting elections. Chalong Thirdweerapong, Phumisak Kongmee, and Natee Ratchakitprakarn were all found guilty of a severe breach of parliamentary ethics. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316887-three-ex-bhumjaithai-mps-banned-by-supreme-court/

The Supreme Court delivered a harsh blow to three former Bhumjaithai MPs, slamming them with a 10-year ban from contesting elections. Chalong Thirdweerapong, Phumisak Kongmee, and Natee Ratchakitprakarn were all found guilty of a severe breach of parliamentary ethics. The court’s ruling, based on a parallel case in the Criminal Court, unveils a scandalous scheme. On May 18 last year, the trio was convicted of handing over their MP identification cards to others during the deliberations of the 2020 budget bill. This deceitful act resulted in a nine-month jail sentence, which they are currently appealing. The Supreme Court wasted no time in enforcing the ban, citing Article 235 of the Constitution. According to the court, the former MPs failed to uphold the code of ethics, neglected their duty with dishonesty, and caused severe damage to the honourable position of MPs. The ban, effective immediately, prevents Chalong, Phumisak, and Natee from contesting elections or holding any political position over the next decade. The court retroactively disqualified them as MPs from September 3, 2021, when they were initially suspended by the court, reported The Nation. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Transcontinental Times Full story: The Thaiger 2024-01-12 - 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

Double-down drama: DOPA crackdown sees 200 gamblers dealt a losing hand in southern Thailand by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ พิกัดข่าว24 Officers from the Department of Provincial Administration (DOPA) yesterday swooped on a gambling den in the southern province of Nakhon Si Thammarat and arrested 200 gamblers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316886-double-down-drama-dopa-crackdown-sees-200-gamblers-dealt-a-losing-hand-in-southern-thailand/

Officers from the Department of Provincial Administration (DOPA) yesterday swooped on a gambling den in the southern province of Nakhon Si Thammarat and arrested 200 gamblers. Residents in Nakhon Si Thammarat submitted a complaint about the gambling house to the Deputy Interior Minister, Chada Thaiseth. They reported that the gambling den was open 24 hours a day. More than 200 gamblers visited the place daily and more than 100 vehicles were seen in the car park. Locals added that the venue had been offering gambling games for a long time and was well known among residents in the area. However, no relevant authorities took action on the matter. Chada handed the case over to the DOPA. The authorities dispatched a spy to the location and found that the gambling house was operating in a building resembling a gymnasium, surrounded by a wall over 2.5 metres high. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ พิกัดข่าว24 Full story: The Thaiger 2024-01-12 - 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 MP proposes revision of strict alcohol control bill by Top Top Move Forward Party (MFP) MP Thaophiphob Limchitrakorn proposed a revision of a stringent Alcohol Control bill concerning alcohol product advertising during a parliamentary meeting on Wednesday, January 10. Three versions of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act were under scrutiny, including two public sector drafts and Thaophiphob’s draft. The first draft, supported by numerous anti-alcohol groups and labelled as Article 32 on advertising, aimed to intensify current regulations. It proposed an amendment to prohibit the use of logos similar to alcoholic beverage logos on non-alcoholic beverages like soft drinks and water. Bangkok MFP MP Thaophiphob explained that this would mean that advertising for brands of non-alcoholic beverages with logos resembling alcoholic beverages would be considered a breach of the law. For example, brands like Chang or Singha could not use the same logo for alcohol products on non-alcoholic products to advertise or sponsor events if this bill were to be enacted. Thaophiphob offered an alternative in his second draft that would permit advertising, albeit within reason. His goal was to address the worries of ordinary individuals, who should be able to post or advertise beer on social media without risking a fine of 50,000 baht or imprisonment. He commented that the current fine for ordinary individuals advertising alcoholic products is higher than the penalty for drink driving. Full story: The Thaiger 2024-01-12 - 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

Phuket: Motorcycle taxi rider fatally stabbed during brawl, another injured by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Phuket News Two motorcycle taxi riders got embroiled in a brawl in Patong, Phuket, yesterday, leading to one fatality at the scene, while the other sustained serious injuries. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316884-phuket-motorcycle-taxi-rider-fatally-stabbed-during-brawl-another-injured/

Two motorcycle taxi riders got embroiled in a brawl in Patong, Phuket, yesterday, leading to one fatality at the scene, while the other sustained serious injuries. The deceased taxi rider, 61 year old Samanmart Ueanoth, was found with three stab wounds to his chest and was transported to the local hospital. However, he succumbed to his injuries and lost his life. He hailed from Phetchaburi and was known as Uncle Mit by locals. Patong Police Chief Police Colonel Chalermchai Hirsawat received a report of the incident and arrived at the scene with fellow officers. The altercation took place near Government Savings Bank, Phra Barami Road. The other motorcycle taxi driver, 41 year old Thawatchai Kaewsamsri drove himself to hospital for treatment for his injuries. The two riders worked for the same motorcycle ride service company and had been drinking on duty, according to witnesses. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Phuket News Full story: The Thaiger 2024-01-12 - 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

13 deaths at Chiang Mai Night Safari, American dies in Phuket - Tim Newton Today - Jan 12 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316883-13-deaths-at-chiang-mai-night-safari-american-dies-in-phuket-tim-newton-today-jan-12/

Thailand news - Where's Thaksin? Official visit to the Police Hospital cancelled, an American killed in Phuket road incident, Thai PM signs new Clean Air Act, Settha also speaks to Cambodian PM about cross-boundary air pollution, the 'wai' designated as a mew national symbol in Thailand, a purge at the top with many army Generals offered early retirement to cull the numbers. 13 endangered species have died at the Chiang Mai Night Safari during December last year... why? And the world's most anticipated travel destinations for 2024, according to TripAdvisor. Tim Newton Today is a daily take on Thai and regional news and issues of interest to expats and foreign tourists.

2 Indian men arrested near Bangkok for offering high-interest loans by Petch Petpailin Photo via Naewna Immigration Bureau (IB) officers announced a successful operation to arrest two Indian men illegally offering high-interest loans to Thai people in Nonthaburi province near Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316881-2-indian-men-arrested-near-bangkok-for-offering-high-interest-loans/

Immigration Bureau (IB) officers announced a successful operation to arrest two Indian men illegally offering high-interest loans to Thai people in Nonthaburi province near Bangkok. The IB launched the operation to crack down on foreigners running illegal businesses or posing as powerful and influential people in the communities. The operation led officers to a 39 year old Indian man, identified only as A, who offered loans to Thais in the Nonthaburi province. Officers observed the man and discovered that he rode around the area on a bicycle offering loans to Thais with financial problems. Armed with concrete evidence, officers arrested A at his accommodation in the province and also discovered that he had overstayed his visa by more than six years. A further investigation into the matter was conducted until officers found a Thai woman who borrowed money from another Indian man, B. The woman made known that she was the owner of a clothes shop and borrowed 3,000 baht from B. No document or contract was made for the loan. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Naewna Full story: The Thaiger 2024-01-12 - 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: Thai PM sparks a brighter future: Electric mass transit pledge to zap pollution in Chiang Mai by Mitch Connor Thai PM Srettha Thavisin examines an electric songtaew in Chiang Mai on Thursday, January 11. Picture courtesy of Pattarayut Fakpol. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin pledged to foster the development of electric mass transit systems as a solution to the persistent air pollution issues plaguing the northern province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316863-thai-prime-minister-signs-clean-air-bill-during-visit-to-chiang-mai-to-tackle-air-pollution/?do=findComment&comment=18613378

Thai PM sparks a brighter future: Electric mass transit pledge to zap pollution in Chiang Mai by Mitch Connor Thai PM Srettha Thavisin examines an electric songtaew in Chiang Mai on Thursday, January 11. Picture courtesy of Pattarayut Fakpol. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin pledged to foster the development of electric mass transit systems as a solution to the persistent air pollution issues plaguing the northern province. 61 year old Thai prime minister noted that the fine particulate matter smaller than 2.5 microns (PM2.5) levels had considerably decreased since his last visit on November 28 of the previous year. The air quality has indeed improved since April of the previous year when the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) detected 302 hotspots, thereby escalating the situation to a critical level. The air pollution problem has adversely affected tourism in Chiang Mai, deterring both local and international tourists due to potential health risks. PM Srettha noted that to tackle these issues, the government and local authorities have initiated short to long-term plans. A significant component of these initiatives is the Transport Ministry’s plan to enhance the province’s mass transportation system, which would not only alleviate the PM2.5 levels caused by traffic congestion but also provide convenience for tourists, said the Thai prime minister. “Chiang Mai is a major city that is yet to have a rapid mass transit system. The introduction of a monorail service would not only benefit local commuters but also contribute to the economic growth.” Full story: The Thaiger 2024-01-12 - 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

State Railway of Thailand introduces advance booking service for Songkran by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Coconuts The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) rolled out a game-changing 90-day advance booking service for CNR express trains on key routes, just in time for the upcoming Songkran festivities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316877-state-railway-of-thailand-introduces-advance-booking-service-for-songkran/

The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) rolled out a game-changing 90-day advance booking service for CNR express trains on key routes, just in time for the upcoming Songkran festivities. This initiative, set to kick off tomorrow, January 12, aims to alleviate the surge in travel demand during the Thai New Year celebrations. Kicking off with Songkran, the service allows eager travellers to snag advance tickets for eight return services on CNR express trains plying the Northern, Northeastern, and Southern Lines. Among these offerings are two return services on the Northern Line, linking the bustling city of Bangkok (Krung Thep Aphiwat) with the enchanting Chiang Mai and vice versa. The Northeastern Line boasts four return services connecting Bangkok with Ubon Ratchathanni and Nong Khai. Meanwhile, on the Southern Line, the service encompasses two return trips between Bangkok and the vibrant Hat Yai. As of tomorrow at 8.30am, tickets for these expedited services can be secured through the user-friendly D-Ticket mobile app, the official website, or conveniently at ticket booths across SRT stations nationwide, reported Pattaya Mail. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Coconuts Full story: The Thaiger 2024-01-12 - 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: Pathway hazard caused by parked cars, potholes, and uneven tiles by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Locals and tourists found themselves grappling with perilous pathways along Pattaya‘s Second Road, turning the once-bustling path into a hazardous route. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316875-pattaya-pathway-hazard-caused-by-parked-cars-potholes-and-uneven-tiles/

Locals and tourists found themselves grappling with perilous pathways along Pattaya‘s Second Road, turning the once-bustling path into a hazardous route. Haphazardly parked cars, potholes, and uneven blocks create a challenging terrain for pedestrians, but that’s not all – advertising signs and encroaching vehicles add to the chaos, further squeezing the already tight walkway. The epicentre of this safety crisis is the northern stretch of the Second Road walkway, where baht-buses, motorcycles, and cars contribute to the mayhem, leaving minimal space for pedestrians to manoeuvre. Unlawfully blocked sidewalks have become an everyday challenge for foot travellers, jeopardising safety and convenience in equal measure. As Pattaya’s popularity continues to draw a diverse influx of tourists, urgent action is imperative to address these escalating issues and overhaul pedestrian footpaths, reported Pattaya Mail. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Full story: The Thaiger 2024-01-12 - 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

Experts warn of ‘lost generation’ as Thailand marks Children’s Day File photo Since 1956, Thailand has celebrated National Children’s Day with fun activities and impressive speeches about how important kids are to the country’s future. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316873-experts-warn-of-‘lost-generation’-as-thailand-marks-children’s-day/

Since 1956, Thailand has celebrated National Children’s Day with fun activities and impressive speeches about how important kids are to the country’s future. But as this year’s Children’s Day approaches, academics say urgent action is needed to boost kids’ care, protection, and education otherwise Thailand risks suffering a “lost generation”. “The current environment is damaging children,” warns Prof Sompong Jitradup, an expert at the Equitable Education Fund (EEF) and former education lecturer at Chulalongkorn University. Toxic environment Sompong said nearly half of Thai families are either damaged or broken from grappling with issues like poverty, debt, domestic violence and other conflicts. Faced with these challenges, many parents are failing to provide their children with a nurturing environment to grow up in. Sompong also pointed to serious deficiencies in the education system, including a lack of emphasis on democratic values, creativity, critical thinking, and the courage to innovate. Compounding the problems are frequent reports of teachers verbally or even physically abusing students. Some teachers have even been caught trying to extort money from children under their care. Violent disciplinary methods remain a serious blight on Thai education, says Surapong Kongchantuk, president of the Social Action for Children and Women. TOP: File photo Full story: Thai PBS 2024-01-12 - 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

Will Srettha’s administration have the political will to stop smog problem? By Arun Saronchai Bangkok, a city famed for its cultural vibrancy and bustling street life, is now grappling with a persistent and dangerous environmental crisis: severe air pollution. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316868-will-srettha’s-administration-have-the-political-will-to-stop-smog-problem/

Bangkok, a city famed for its cultural vibrancy and bustling street life, is now grappling with a persistent and dangerous environmental crisis: severe air pollution. At the heart of this crisis is the PM2.5 particulate matter, tiny particles that pose serious health risks due to their ability to penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream. The smog in Bangkok, characterized by high levels of PM2.5, is a complex issue, with agricultural burning to support large-scale corporate agricultural operations being a significant contributing factor. With the new government under Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin in power, there’s a pressing question: Will this administration confront the corporations that are implicated in these unhealthy practices? Bangkok’s air pollution problem has reached alarming levels in recent years. The concentration of PM2.5 often exceeds safe limits, posing a threat not just to the environment but, more critically, to public health. The sources of PM2.5 in Bangkok are varied, but agricultural burning, especially of sugarcane and rice stubble, is a major contributor. Estimates suggest that biomass burning in the agricultural sector contributes anywhere from 24 to 38% of the PM2.5 levels in Bangkok, with the majority coming from sugarcane and rice burning. The Thai government has acknowledged the severity of the situation and has put forth measures to combat the issue. These include ambitious goals like reducing areas prone to repeated burning by 50% and decreasing average PM2.5 particulate matter by 40%. Such measures signal a recognition of the need to address the root causes of air pollution. However, their effectiveness will largely depend on how well these policies are implemented and enforced. By Arun Saronchai Full story: THAI ENQUIRER 2024-01-12 - 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 Woman Robbed of 32,000-Baht Gold Necklace on Pattaya Walking Street By Tanakorn Panyadee A 25-year-old woman of Thai nationality said she was robbed of her gold necklace on Wednesday night while walking on the popular Walking Street in Pattaya. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316866-thai-woman-robbed-of-32000-baht-gold-necklace-on-pattaya-walking-street/

A 25-year-old woman of Thai nationality said she was robbed of her gold necklace on Wednesday night while walking on the popular Walking Street in Pattaya. Update: The suspect was arrested late yesterday, January 11th, and a full article will be up shortly pending more details from Pattaya police. Ms. Amarin Kokaew, the victim, told Pattaya police on January 10th that she was walking along Walking Street around 10:00 PM when a tall, young man on a motorcycle approached her. The man quickly reached out, grabbed her gold necklace, which weighed 1 baht and was valued at approximately 32,000 baht, before speeding away toward the Wat Chaimongkol intersection. Shaken by the incident, Ms. Amarin immediately went to the Pattaya Police Station to report the robbery. She also gave a CCTV recording of the incident to investigating officer Pol Lt Saijai Kamchulla. By Tanakorn Panyadee Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-01-12 - 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 - Friday 12 January 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316865-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-friday-12-january-2024/

Thai Prime Minister Signs Clean Air Bill During Visit to Chiang Mai to Tackle Air Pollution By Kittisak Phalaharn At 9:30 AM, on January 11th, 2024, Srettha Thavisin, Thai Prime Minister, signed a Clean Air bill while visiting Chiang Mai to follow up on public transportation networks and air pollution problems. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316865-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-friday-12-january-2024/