webfact

City officials in Pattaya launched a cleanup operation on Wednesday along the coastline of Cape Bali Hai to tackle a significant accumulation of marine debris. The January 10th initiative was led by Deputy Mayor Manoch Nongyai and joined by the Office of the Natural Resources and Environment and their dedicated staff. The operation, which began at dawn, uncovered a concerning amount of marine debris, such as plastic bottles and bags, paper scraps, foam boxes, and remnants of fishing equipment. This waste had marred the picturesque landscape of Cape Bali Hai, but undeterred, the officials diligently worked together to remove the garbage to restore the area’s natural beauty. By Tanakorn Panyadee PHOTO: ข่าวเมืองชล Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-01-11 - 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

Electrical Leakage on Chonburi Footbridge Prompts Call for Repair By Tanakorn Panyadee PHOTO: TMN Cable TV Pattaya Signs warning people not to touch the rails of a footbridge due to electrical leakage have prompted calls for authorities in Phan Thong to conduct urgent repairs. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316755-electrical-leakage-on-chonburi-footbridge-prompts-call-for-repair/

Signs warning people not to touch the rails of a footbridge due to electrical leakage have prompted calls for authorities in Phan Thong to conduct urgent repairs. Local residents in Chonburi’s Phan Thong district are urging relevant authorities to address an electrical leakage at a footbridge to prevent a potential electrical hazard. The hazardous bridge, located near Phan Thong Tonson School, is regularly used by numerous young students. The leakage appears to stem from a tangle of wires wrapped around one of the iron rails of the bridge. Makeshift paper signs have been posted at the bridge’s base to warn people against making contact with the rails. By Tanakorn Panyadee PHOTO: TMN Cable TV Pattaya Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-01-11 - 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 Cabinet reviews submarine procurement contract extension by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Thairath A submarine procurement contract extension is under review by the Thai Cabinet, following advice from the Office of the Attorney General (OAG). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316743-navy-not-lobbying-ministers-over-chinese-submarine-suthin/?do=findComment&comment=18610418

Thai Cabinet reviews submarine procurement contract extension by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Thairath A submarine procurement contract extension is under review by the Thai Cabinet, following advice from the Office of the Attorney General (OAG). This came as a response to the navy’s inquiries concerning the programme. The OAG highlighted the requirement for a 1,217-day contract extension to undergo a Cabinet review due to the government-to-government nature of the deal. The change to the submarine engine, however, was deemed a technical issue, the evaluation of which rests with the navy. The 13.5-billion baht (US$ 385,279,605) submarine programme experienced a setback when China failed to secure a German-made engine for the Yuan-class S26T submarine, ordered by the Thai navy. This was due to regulatory restrictions that prevented German engines from being utilised in Chinese military equipment, reported Bangkok Post. China offered a CHD620 engine to replace the MTU396, a solution that seems to be acceptable to the navy. Even so, the Pheu Thai-led government appears to lean towards swapping the submarine for a frigate, a deal that may increase costs by one billion baht (US$ 28,527,830). If the engine change is approved, the procurement process will require an additional 40 months to be completed. The construction, already delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, is currently on pause due to the engine issue. Full story: The Thaiger 2024-01-11 - 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

Caution advised over interest rate cuts by Bank of Thailand by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Seksan Rojjanametakul Pundits have cautioned against hasty moves to cut interest rates and have emphasised the importance of an independent Bank of Thailand as it determines its policy interest rates. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316753-caution-advised-over-interest-rate-cuts-by-bank-of-thailand/

Pundits have cautioned against hasty moves to cut interest rates and have emphasised the importance of an independent Bank of Thailand as it determines its policy interest rates. They warned that inconsistent fiscal and monetary policies could harm more than they help. Therdsak Thaveeteeratham, Asia Plus Securities (ASPS) executive vice president, insisted that decisions regarding interest rates should be the sole jurisdiction of the central bank’s Monetary Policy Committee, devoid of conflicts or interference. He stated, “The Bank of Thailand should be an independent organisation. Political interference can negatively affect public confidence in the financial system.” Therdsak also called for fiscal and monetary policies to be consistent and reliable. “If fiscal and monetary policies are consistent without conflict, that will make supervision of the economic system smooth and create more confidence and stability.” He believes that the Bank of Thailand has leeway to reduce interest rates given the current inflation rates. However, geopolitical risks and the El Niño weather phenomenon could cause an inflation surge, which may be causing concern, reported Bangkok Post. by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Seksan Rojjanametakul Full story: The Thaiger 2024-01-11 - 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 11 January 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316752-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-thursday-11-january-2024/

The state of emergency has been lifted in the southern district of Pattani Following the reduced level of insurgent attacks, However the state of emergency will be extended for a further 3 months to 18 areas along the border with Malaysia, The government aims to lift the emergency decree along the entire southern border by 2027. A Democrat MP says he will visit the police hospital on Friday and talk with Taksin Shinawat and others being treated there. Several of Taksins opponents asked whether he had sneaked out to live in his house. The MP said this visit aims to find out whether Thaksin is receiving more privileges than other inmates. The Royal Thai has been told it will need cabinet approval to extend it’s submarine procurement contract by over 12 hundred days due to it being a government-to-government deal. The 13.5-billion baht submarine program faced a setback when China couldn't acquire a German-made engine, The navy is content with China's offer of a replacement, while the government would prefer to swap the submarine for a frigate. Local Police have issued a warning over a scam that offers to obtain driving licenses without the need for the applicant to take a test. Advertisements appeared on social media offering to take the test for applicants for a range of fees. Victims would apply via a Line application giving their personal data and copy of ID Card. The department of transport says it does not accept applications online and warns against responding to the scammers. Around The Region. Chiang Mai and the north: sunny 32C Bangkok: Sunny partly cloudy 35 Pattaya: Sunny, partly cloudy 33 Phuket and the south: Sunny partly cloudy, isolated shower 32C Hua Hin : Sunny, 32 AQI moderate to high 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 2024-01-11 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

18-Wheeler Trailer with Failed Brakes Collides with Sedan and Pickup, Claiming the Life of a 35-Year-Old Woman In a tragic incident in Nonthaburi, a collision involving a sedan, a pickup truck, and a trailer with 18 wheels lacking brakes resulted in the loss of life of a 35-year-old female architect. The accident occurred on the inbound lane of the Kanchanaphisek Road, just before the Rama 5 Roundabout in Bang Khu Wat, Bang Kruai district. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316748-18-wheeler-trailer-with-failed-brakes-collides-with-sedan-and-pickup-claiming-the-life-of-a-35-year-old-woman/

Singaporean Fugitive Apprehended by Krabi Tourist Police on Koh Lanta In a significant turn of events on January 10, authorities from the Krabi Tourism Enforcement unit successfully nabbed an individual of Singaporean origin, wanted on charges related to nocturnal theft and eluding law enforcement. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316744-singaporean-fugitive-apprehended-by-krabi-tourist-police-on-koh-lanta/

Thailand moves to ban recreational cannabis use, 18 months after historic decriminalization By Heather Chen and Kocha Olarn, CNN File photo for reference only CNN — Thailand’s new government is moving ahead to pass new legisalation banning cannabis for recreational use in a major reversal 18 months after the country became the first in Asia to decriminalize the plant. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316750-thailand-moves-to-ban-recreational-cannabis-use-18-months-after-historic-decriminalization/

CNN — Thailand’s new government is moving ahead to pass new legisalation banning cannabis for recreational use in a major reversal 18 months after the country became the first in Asia to decriminalize the plant. The relaxed laws saw a lucrative cannabis industry catering to locals and foreigners alike boom across the Southeast Asian nation, but a new conservative coalition government came to power late last year vowing to tighten the rules and only allow medical use. A draft bill was released on Tuesday by Thailand’s health ministry outlining hefty fines or prison sentences of up to one year for offenders – or both. Cannabis and cannabis-related products will be limited to medical and health purposes only, the bill states, echoing Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s pledge in September that his new government will “rectify” laws on cannabis within the next six months. Smoking marijuana in public remained illegal even under the relaxed laws, but the proposed new laws will ban advertising and marketing campaigns for cannabis buds and extracts, and other cannabis products. By Heather Chen and Kocha Olarn, CNN Top picture: File photo for reference only Full story: CNN 2024-01-11 - 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

Young Man Dead in Three Vehicle Accident in Thalang, Phuket By Goongnang Suksawat A 28-year-old Thai man died after his speeding sedan crashed into a parked pickup truck before slamming into a motorbike and power pole in the Thalang district. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316749-young-man-dead-in-three-vehicle-accident-in-thalang-phuket/

A 28-year-old Thai man died after his speeding sedan crashed into a parked pickup truck before slamming into a motorbike and power pole in the Thalang district. The Thalang Police were notified of the accident at 6:10 A.M. on Wednesday (January 10th) on the main Thep Krasattri Road, northbound in Sri Soonthorn near the Bang Chak gas station. Police, emergency responders, and the Phuket Express arrived at the scene to find a severely damaged sedan had crashed into a power pole on the roadside. The sedan driver, Mr. Jinnawat Thaworn, 28, from Phang Nga, was found dead inside. Nearby, rescue workers found a damaged pickup truck with its hazard lights turned on at the side of the road. The driver, Ms. Darunee Korsai, 45, from Sri Soonthorn, had sustained only minor injuries. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-01-11 - 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

In a tragic incident in Nonthaburi, a collision involving a sedan, a pickup truck, and a trailer with 18 wheels lacking brakes resulted in the loss of life of a 35-year-old female architect. The accident occurred on the inbound lane of the Kanchanaphisek Road, just before the Rama 5 Roundabout in Bang Khu Wat, Bang Kruai district. On January 10, 67, at 4:00 PM, officers from the Bang Kruai Police Station, Nonthaburi, along with rescue personnel from the Pote Tek Tung Foundation, responded to reports of a multi-vehicle accident, reported 77kaoded. The 18-wheeler trailer, a Hino with license plate 79-2267 Bangkok, collided forcefully with the rear of a white Subaru sedan, license plate DTM 729 Bangkok, driven by Ms. Benchama Phanomrueang, a 35-year-old architect from a renowned construction company. Picture: 77kaoded The impact caused a chain reaction, involving six damaged vehicles, including sedans and pickups, and resulted in two male injuries. The accident led to a closure of two inbound lanes, causing significant traffic congestion for several hours. Concurrently, a vigilant citizen's dashcam captured footage of the 18-wheeler trailer slamming into the sedan's rear. According to the 33-year-old trailer driver, Mr. Anan Donko, while driving, he noticed a braking issue in the front vehicle and attempted to brake, but the heavy load prevented him from stopping. This resulted in a powerful collision with the Subaru sedan, causing further damage to nearby vehicles. Picture: 77kaoded Law enforcement officials stated that preliminary investigations involved recording statements from the trailer driver and other victims. However, further inquiries, including additional statements from the trailer driver and a review of CCTV footage in the vicinity, are necessary. The deceased victim's body has been handed over to the forensic science institute for further examination. Picture: 77kaoded - ASEAN NOW 2024-01-11 - 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 Pictures: Picture: 77kaoded

Six Russians and Three Thais Rescued after Yacht Capsizes in Rawai By Goongnang Suksawat Six Russian tourists and three Thais have been rescued after a yacht capsized near an island in Rawai. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316747-six-russians-and-three-thais-rescued-after-yacht-capsizes-in-rawai/

Six Russian tourists and three Thais have been rescued after a yacht capsized near an island in Rawai. The Phuket Marine Office told the Phuket Express that at 3:50 P.M. on Tuesday (January 9th) they were notified of the accident by the yacht captain, Mr. Jakkree Kuenkong. He was carrying six unidentified Russian tourists and two Thai passengers. They had departed from a pier in Chalong at 9:40 A.M. in the morning on a trip to Maithon Island and Racha Island. One of the water pipes in the yacht had broken when they arrived at the West side of the Coral Island. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-01-11 - 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

Blind man conned out of land by his deceased mother’s younger sister after signing up for a loan by James Morris and Son Nguyen Identified only by his first name on Wednesday, 36-year-old Mr Likhit made his way to Bangkok. In short, to plead for help and justice. The blind man was tricked into signing away his land inheritance by his aunt and her husband. Previously, the unemployed agricultural labourer had sought a loan after his employer disappeared overnight. Blind man’s heartbreaking betrayal as his Aunt swindles his land for a loan. In a week of uplifting financial disability support hikes, Mr Likhit’s tale speaks of the darker side of human nature. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316746-blind-man-conned-out-of-land-by-his-deceased-mother’s-younger-sister-after-signing-up-for-a-loan/

Identified only by his first name on Wednesday, 36-year-old Mr Likhit made his way to Bangkok. In short, to plead for help and justice. The blind man was tricked into signing away his land inheritance by his aunt and her husband. Previously, the unemployed agricultural labourer had sought a loan after his employer disappeared overnight. Blind man’s heartbreaking betrayal as his Aunt swindles his land for a loan. In a week of uplifting financial disability support hikes, Mr Likhit’s tale speaks of the darker side of human nature. Blind and desperate, he sought a loan, only to unknowingly sign away his 6 rai of land to his aunt. Thailand’s cruel loan contracts are exposed, highlighting the vulnerability of disabled people. Authorities to probe this disturbing story from northeastern Thailand. In a week when news of substantial and generous new provisions for the disabled emerged, a blind man travelled to Bangkok with a darker message. 36-year-old Mr Likhit from Nakhon Ratchasima broke down as he told reporters how his own aunt, his deceased mother’s younger sister, had cheated him out of 6 rai of land after he asked for a loan of ฿20,000 when his contract labour employer absconded without paying his wages. He thought he had signed up for a loan at an extortionate rate. He learned later that he had signed over his land under Thailand’s cruel and archaic informal loan contracts. In a heart-wrenching press conference that unfolded on January 10, 2024, human greed and cynicism were laid bare. It took place in Bangkok after a brave blind man travelled through the night to have his voice heard. Given that he is blind, his journey took a lot of effort coming from Thailand’s rural heartland. He cried at times during an emotional interaction with the press and media. by James Morris and Son Nguyen Full story: The Thai Examiner 2024-01-11 - 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

In a significant turn of events on January 10, authorities from the Krabi Tourism Enforcement unit successfully nabbed an individual of Singaporean origin, wanted on charges related to nocturnal theft and eluding law enforcement. The operation, orchestrated under the command of Pol. Lt. Gen. Sornsuk Sarisuk, chief of the Tourism Police Division, was designed to uphold tranquility and security in the community, prioritizing the well-being of both local inhabitants and visiting tourists, reported Siam Rath. Following a directive from the Ao Nang police station in Krabi, the Tourism Police were tasked with locating the Singaporean suspect, accused of orchestrating a nighttime theft utilizing a vehicle for added convenience. Intelligence suggested the individual was in hiding somewhere within the Krabi province. Picture: Siam Rath Under the guidance of Pol. Lt. Gen. Sornsuk Sarisuk, the Tourism Police, accompanied by other high-ranking officers, initiated a comprehensive investigation that eventually led them to the suspect, identified as Muhamad from Singapore. The apprehension took place at a residence in Sala Dan, Koh Lanta, Krabi. Muhamad, 34 years old, openly admitted to pilfering a mobile phone from a local establishment in Ao Nang before seeking refuge in Koh Lanta. He asserted having remained in the province since the incident without prior encounters with law enforcement. The arrest of Muhamad was executed in accordance with an arrest warrant issued by the Krabi Provincial Court. Picture: Siam Rath Krabi, celebrated for its popularity as a tourist hotspot, experiences a continuous influx of visitors. The Tourism Police underscored the significance of reporting accommodations under Sections 37 and 38 of the Immigration Act of 1979, streamlining the verification process for foreign nationals within the region, and ensuring the safety of both tourists and locals. Authorities urged the public to report any peculiar activities to the Krabi Tourism Enforcement hotline at 075-611097, cultivating a sense of assurance among both tourists and residents in the province. Top Picture: Siam Rath -- ASEAN NOW 2024-01-11 - 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

House Panel to Visit Police General Hospital on Jan 12 BANGKOK (TNA) – The Police General Hospital agrees to allow the members of the House Committee on police affairs to visit and observe its operations on January 12 as requested, said the committee's chairman Chaichana Detdecho. Chaichana, an MP from Nakhon Si Thammarat said they will observe the work of the hospital staff on the 6th floor of the Sriyanont Building at 10 am. The goal of the committee is to gather information about the care of prisoners, from the process of admitting them for treatment at the hospital to how they are taken care of, he said. Full story: TNA-MCOT 2024-01-11 - 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

Navy Not Lobbying Ministers Over Chinese Submarine: Suthin By Thai Newsroom Reporters Defence Minister Suthin Khlangsang with a Chinese submarine behind him. Photo: Matichon DEFENCE MINISTER SUTHIN Khlangsang today (Jan.10) categorically denied that the navy has quietly lobbied prominent members of cabinet for the planned procurement of a troublesome Chinese-built submarine. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316743-navy-not-lobbying-ministers-over-chinese-submarine-suthin/

DEFENCE MINISTER SUTHIN Khlangsang today (Jan.10) categorically denied that the navy has quietly lobbied prominent members of cabinet for the planned procurement of a troublesome Chinese-built submarine. Suthin said admirals would certainly have conducted sort of lobbyism with him among other unnamed members of cabinet if such unconfirmed hearsay was truthful at all. The defence minister said a possible extension of the contract signed between the Thai navy and China Shipbuilding & Offshore International Co. on the 12.4 billion baht purchase of the Yuan-class S26T submarine cannot be legitimate without approval from the cabinet. In the meantime, Suthin said he is yet awaiting an official conclusion by the Office of the Attorney-General on the legality of the submarine purchase contract for which a cabinet approval will be needed to endorse, no matter whether it could possibly be either extended or cancelled. By Thai Newsroom Reporters TOP: Defence Minister Suthin Khlangsang with a Chinese submarine behind him. Photo: Matichon Full story: THAI NEWSROOM 2024-01-11 - 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: House Panel To Check If Thaksin Got More Privileges Than Others At Hospital By Thai Newsroom Reporters De facto Pheu Thai boss Thaksin Shinawatra with his daughter and Pheu Thai leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Photo: Thai Rath MEMBERS OF THE HOUSE Committee on Police Affairs are scheduled to see on Friday whether de facto Pheu Thai boss-cum-convict at large Thaksin Shinawatra may have been given more privileges than others at Police Hospital. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316724-house-police-affairs-panel-to-visit-police-hospital-this-friday/?do=findComment&comment=18610112