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Picture courtesy: Khaosod In a tragic turn of events, a Thai man’s search for his beloved dog, Sushi, ended in heartbreak after he discovered the pet had been slaughtered and eaten. The man, whose plea for help circulated widely online, had initially given Sushi to an Akha villager in Pa Sang Noi, Mae Chan District, Chiang Rai Province. However, shortly after the adoption, communication with the villager ceased, sparking alarm and concern. Driven by desperation, the owner took to social media, sharing the story and asking for help in locating Sushi, which quickly attracted the attention of animal rights activists and the general public. As the post went viral, the Watchdog Thailand Foundation (WDT) intervened, coordinating efforts with local authorities, including the Chiang Rai Provincial Livestock Office. The widespread attention led police to track down and question the villager who had taken Sushi. Under interrogation, the villager confessed to being part of a network involved in taking dogs under the pretense of adoption, only to transport them to slaughterhouses. Shockingly, it was revealed that Sushi had already been killed and consumed. The disturbing admission also implicated the deaths of three other dogs - Bear, Lucky, and Sumo – each of whom had fallen victim to the same scheme. This case has highlighted a troubling issue in Thailand, where animal protection laws are often difficult to enforce, particularly in rural areas where cultural practices vary. Although Thailand has enacted an Animal Welfare Act, campaigners say that greater enforcement and harsher penalties are essential to deter such cruel acts. Outraged by the revelations, the public has been demanding justice and accountability, with calls for stronger action to dismantle networks involved in dog slaughter and prevent further harm. Social media users have also urged local authorities to investigate thoroughly, as they fear there may be additional cases tied to the same group. This case has reignited a national debate over animal protection in Thailand, prompting widespread discussions on social media about the need for stricter laws and greater awareness. Animal rights activists, including those from WDT, have intensified their calls for legal action, insisting that those involved in the network should face prosecution under animal cruelty laws. Meanwhile, many Thais have come together online to advocate for Sushi and other dogs, rallying for justice and greater respect for animals. With growing public attention, authorities are under pressure to crack down on illegal practices surrounding animal slaughter and ensure the safety of pets, reported Khaosod online. -- 2024-11-15

UK Pensioners in Thailand Face New Scrutiny Over Pension Fraud File photo courtesy: Salzburg global x-account British pensioners living abroad, including in Thailand, will soon face enhanced scrutiny as UK banking confidentiality is set to change under new legislation targeting pension fraud. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343598-uk-pensioners-in-thailand-face-new-scrutiny-over-pension-fraud/

File photo courtesy: Salzburg global x-account British pensioners living abroad, including in Thailand, will soon face enhanced scrutiny as UK banking confidentiality is set to change under new legislation targeting pension fraud. The Data Protection and Digital Information Bill, currently under review in the House of Lords, is expected to take effect in early 2025, writes Barry Kenyon for Pattaya Mail. Under the bill, British banks and building societies must share account details with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) where there are suspicions of fraud involving British citizens, both in the UK and overseas. The bill addresses cases of a small minority of British expats allegedly concealing their residence in countries where they are not eligible for inflation-linked increases to their state pensions. While some countries, such as those in the EU and the Philippines, qualify for these annual increases, others - including Thailand and Australia - do not. Currently, around 500,000 British pensioners reside in countries with “frozen” pensions, and the DWP estimates that overpayments due to fraud exceed £100 million. Common tactics include maintaining a UK address for official DWP communications while living abroad. For example, a British pensioner based in Thailand was discovered last year after a neighbour returned a DWP letter with the note, “Lucky Sod Lives in Pattaya.” In another instance, a Bangkok-based pensioner’s deception was uncovered when his wife discovered he was enjoying himself in Bangkok rather than working in Baghdad, as he had claimed. However, Thailand’s advocacy group for ending frozen UK pensions argues that the issue of fraud is minor. A representative claimed that the primary issues are DWP processing errors and the discriminatory policy denying pension increases to expats based on location. Neither the previous Conservative nor the current Labour government has addressed these concerns. Additionally, pensioners have voiced frustrations with the unreliable international postal system. The UK authorities require proof of life certificates every three years to continue payments, but these documents are sent via regular mail, often resulting in lost letters and payment suspensions. Frank Weston, 68, a Pattaya-based pensioner, described the system as “insane and discriminatory” and advocated for a shift to a fully digital process, reported Pattaya Mail. -- 2024-11-15

Chiang Mai: Free rent for grabs in exchange for taming neighbour Photo courtesy of Saranya Facebook page via The Nation A Chiang Mai homeowner is taking drastic measures to settle a neighbourhood feud by offering three months of rent-free living to anyone willing to stand up to a particularly “mad” bully next door. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343587-chiang-mai-free-rent-for-grabs-in-exchange-for-taming-neighbour/

Nightly Merry-Making at Pattaya Beach Challenges Law Enforcement Photo: The Pattaya News As evening falls upon the stretch of Thailand's Pattaya Beach, the carefree harmonies of music blend with the ocean's rhythm, punctuating the air with an atmosphere of jovial recklessness to the chagrin of local authorities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343581-nightly-merry-making-at-pattaya-beach-challenges-law-enforcement/

Baht to basics: Tourists’ wild rides on Phuket tuk tuks spark online uproar Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ Thai netizens and a local news Facebook page criticised foreign tourists for their inappropriate behaviour on baht buses and tuk tuks in Phuket, expressing concerns over the safety of both the tourists themselves and other motorists. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343586-baht-to-basics-tourists’-wild-rides-on-phuket-tuk-tuks-spark-online-uproar/

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 15 November 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1343506-thailand-live-friday-15-november-2024/

Picture courtesy: Media of Thailand Thailand's Loy Krathong Festival Illuminates Rivers Nationwide Celebrated 15 November across Thailand, the Loy Krathong festival sees communities gather to release beautiful, candlelit offerings called krathongs onto rivers, canals, and lakes. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343505-thailands-loy-krathong-festival-illuminates-rivers-nationwide/

UPDATE: Thaksin In Hot Water Over Alleged Election Law Breach Picture courtesy: LINE Thaksin Shinawatra, the influential figure behind the Pheu Thai Party, might have found himself in hot water after potentially violating election laws during a campaign event yesterday in Udon Thani. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343489-thaksin-delivers-first-speech-in-18-years-denies-interfering-with-pm/?do=findComment&comment=19381525

Thaksin In Hot Water Over Alleged Election Law Breach Picture courtesy: LINE Thaksin Shinawatra, the influential figure behind the Pheu Thai Party, might have found himself in hot water after potentially violating election laws during a campaign event yesterday in Udon Thani. This comes as Somchai Srisutthiyakorn, a former election commissioner, drew attention to Thaksin's remarks on Facebook, suggesting the breach was an inadvertent slip during his speech. Speaking to a crowd in the northeastern province, Thaksin expressed his support for Saravut Petpanomporn, the Pheu Thai candidate for the head of the Udon Thani provincial administration. He allegedly told the crowd that voting for Saravut would be akin to voting for him personally. Such a statement potentially contravenes the Local Election Act, as Thaksin is legally barred from holding political positions due to a prior Supreme Court ruling related to power abuse charges. The implications, should Thaksin be found guilty, are severe. He could face up to 10 years in prison or a fine reaching 200,000 baht. Moreover, if the court finds this breach invalidates the election, Saravut might receive a "yellow card," leading to the annulment of the November 24 election and necessitating a rerun, in which Saravut could participate once more. Saravut's main opponent in the race for the provincial administration head position is Khanisorn Khurirang, representing the People’s Party. As tensions mount, the electoral process remains under scrutiny, emphasising the delicate balance of legality and influence in Thai politics. In the meantime, observers eagerly await further developments to see if Thaksin's statements will have lasting repercussions, not only for him but for the Pheu Thai Party as well, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-11-14

Couple falls to their deaths in Chai Nat rice field well by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A couple lost their lives after falling into a 10-metre-deep well in a rice field in the central province of Chai Nat. The husband initially descended into the well but succumbed to a lack of oxygen, prompting his wife to attempt a rescue, ultimately resulting in both their deaths. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343529-couple-falls-to-their-deaths-in-chai-nat-rice-field-well/

by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A couple lost their lives after falling into a 10-metre-deep well in a rice field in the central province of Chai Nat. The husband initially descended into the well but succumbed to a lack of oxygen, prompting his wife to attempt a rescue, ultimately resulting in both their deaths. The distressing event was reported to the local police late last night. Charoenrit Thorasinh, a deputy investigator from Nang Lue Police Station, was alerted about the fatalities in a deep well situated amid a rice field in Nang Lue subdistrict, Chai Nat province at 11.30pm yesterday, November 13. Coordination with the Chai Nat Provincial Volunteer Foundation was also initiated to address the situation. The accident site was located approximately 1 kilometre into the rice fields, requiring the responders to drive along a narrow path before proceeding on foot for another 100 metres. At the bottom of a 10-metre-deep well, the bodies of a man and a woman were discovered, lying one over the other. Preliminary investigations identified the victims as 53 year old Poom and 50 year old Wongduan, who were husband and wife. The wife had gone down to assist her husband after he encountered difficulties, leading to this unfortunate outcome. Due to the depth of the well and the lack of appropriate equipment, the volunteers were unable to retrieve the bodies immediately. They had to request additional support and tools from the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation. However, because of the late hour and the absence of specialist personnel, the recovery of the bodies was postponed until this morning, November 14. Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A witness, 30 year old Piraphon, revealed that the couple had gone to work on a roof to provide shade and shelter for their tractor, which was used to pump groundwater. They likely descended into the well to fix a dislodged belt. It is believed that Poom went down first and was unable to manage, prompting Wongduan to follow him in an attempt to help, leading to the tragic incident. Piraphon explained that he went in search of them because they usually did not take their vehicle out due to the difficult terrain. Concerned about their prolonged absence, he decided to check on them. Wongduan’s father, 74 year old Boonmee, shared that he had been assisting with the roof construction for the tractor. He assumed the couple would not enter the well, so he turned his attention to another part of the field. However, when his grandson returned from spraying pesticides and found it late, he inquired about their whereabouts, initially thinking they might be resting in another part of the field. Upon realising that the couple had not come for dinner, he rushed back to the site, where he discovered their parked truck and feared the worst. Hastening to the well, they found both Poom and Wongduan had already died. Boonmee expressed his fear that his grandson might descend into the well too but assured that he had been warned against doing so, reported KhaoSod. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-14

Koh Pha Ngan terror threat claims are really nothing, say police by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Nomadic Matt Security chiefs have stepped up to quash swirling rumours of a supposed terror plot targeting Israeli visitors on Thailand’s dazzling isle of Koh Pha Ngan. These whispers, dismissed outright by local officials, had sparked unwarranted concern among holidaymakers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343515-koh-pha-ngan-terror-threat-claims-are-really-nothing-say-police/

Security chiefs have stepped up to quash swirling rumours of a supposed terror plot targeting Israeli visitors on Thailand’s dazzling isle of Koh Pha Ngan. These whispers, dismissed outright by local officials, had sparked unwarranted concern among holidaymakers. The reassurance comes hot on the heels of advisories from Israeli authorities urging their nationals to stay alert amid murmurings about the upcoming Full Moon Party being a potential target. Israeli media were quick to fan the flames, claiming leaked Thai police documents hinted at possible threats, which led to heightened police activity based on supposedly “concrete information.” Yet, no shred of evidence has surfaced to validate these allegations. In a bid to clear the air, Noppadol Khaomali, head chief of the Koh Pha Ngan district office, took to the podium with Police Colonel Panya Niratmanon, the island’s top cop, and other key players. Together, they declared that media reports stirring the pot at home and abroad had added fuel to the fire unnecessarily. Both the Loy Krathong festival and tomorrow’s Full Moon bash are already under the watchful eye of routine security measures, said Noppadol. “This terror threat talk is utter tripe.” Pol. Maj. Gen. Sermphong Sirikhong, leading the charge in Surat Thani, assured sun-seekers that all tourists are in safe hands, with boosted security protocols in place. Natthriya Thaweevong, the permanent secretary for the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, backed this up, confirming extensive probes by security forces found zilch to support the terror talk. Meanwhile, joint patrols by police, military, and local officials are doing the rounds, ensuring merry-makers can enjoy the festivities without a care. Despite the Israeli National Security Council keeping its threat level unchanged, it still urges Israelis to keep their wits about them. Theerut Supawiboonphol, Surat Thani’s deputy governor, stated no sketchy characters or activities have been spotted. Yet, he’s told security teams to dial up their checks on people and goods entering the party island. Today, November 14, hordes of international travellers were seen hopping on ferries from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan, under the watchful eye of tourist police and patrol officers, guaranteeing a smooth journey. In a display of unity and reassurance, Noppadol Khaomali was spotted flanked by law enforcement and security reps in a press briefing video, comforting tourists with a solid promise of safety. Original story: Israeli tourists face terror threat at Koh Pha Ngan Full Moon party Royal Thai Police (RTP) issued a spine-tingling warning, revealing that terrorists are targeting Israeli holidaymakers at the infamous Full Moon party on Thailand’s tourist haven, Koh Pha Ngan. In a bombshell announcement, the RTP disclosed that they’d received info indicating a sinister plot to attack Israeli tourists at the island celebration. The party, a hot favourite among Israeli adventurers, coincides with Loy Krathong, Thailand’s enchanting Festival of Lights, set for Friday, November 15. In an all-out bid to thwart any potential attack, Thai police are ramping up security, with roadblocks and intensive operations launched across the island. RTP insiders claim this isn’t mere scaremongering, insisting there’s hard evidence behind the terror threat targeting Israelis. A security chief in Israel confirmed that despite RTP’s internal memo, steps are being taken to handle the situation. An announcement from Israel’s National Security Council is anticipated at any moment. Koh Pha Ngan has gained legendary status for its throbbing Full Moon parties, where revellers dance till dawn by moonlit beaches. The jamborees draw massive crowds of Israelis yearly, with travel guides like Erez Roth, based in Kosmoy, shepherding partygoers aplenty. “In my experience, Israelis get jumpy at even the tiniest bother but with the drama in the Netherlands last week, it might be wise to steer clear of big crowds and anything that screams ‘Israeli’. That’s my two cents!” Thai officials urgently advised Israelis on the island about the threat, prepping an emergency protocol for more than 10,000 Israelis vacationing on Koh Pha Ngan. Just weeks ago, Israeli travellers in Sri Lanka got a similar scare, told to scram from Arguam Bay over terror cell jitters. Adding fuel to the fire, The Daily Mirror reported that a recent US indictment claims Iran plotted a barbaric mass shooting of Israeli tourists in Sri Lanka, commemorating the October 7 anniversary of Israel and Hamas’ year-long conflict. Farhad Shakeri, a 51 year old Iranian national, stands accused by the FBI of hatching not just this gruesome plan but also an assassination plot against President-elect Donald Trump. Two other alleged conspirators are cooling their heels in custody over the menace. As the clock ticks down to Koh Pha Ngan’s raucous revelry, anxious tourists are left wondering if the Full Moon party will indeed go off without a hitch, or be marred by the shadow of terror. by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Nomadic Matt Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-14

Korean Influencer Attacks Pattaya Spa Owner After Livestream Confrontation Picture courtesy: Daily News On November 14, Pattaya City Police responded to a report of an altercation at Richy Health Spa, Bang Lamung, Chonburi. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343512-korean-influencer-attacks-pattaya-spa-owner-after-livestream-confrontation/

Picture courtesy: Daily News On November 14, Pattaya City Police responded to a report of an altercation at Richy Health Spa, Bang Lamung, Chonburi. Officers were notified of a dispute that had resulted in injuries. Upon arrival, they found Ms. Narintorn, 43, the spa's owner, with a serious injury to her right arm, which had been dislocated and fractured. Her injuries were accompanied by severe pain. A Korean man, who is the boyfriend of the spa owner, had also been attacked. He suffered facial injuries after being punched in the nose. Rescue workers administered first aid before both victims were transported to the hospital for further treatment. The assailant, a male Korean tourist, did not attempt to flee. Instead, he continued livestreaming the incident on his phone. Police instructed him to stop recording before escorting him to Pattaya City Police Station. Witnesses, including the spa’s staff, expressed criticism of the man’s actions. Ms. Narintorn, the injured spa owner, explained that the man was a self-proclaimed influencer who often livestreamed inside the spa without permission. Despite not knowing him personally, she had been reluctant to confront him previously for fear of damaging the business's image, as he was a tourist. However, on this occasion, he entered a treatment room where a customer was receiving an oil massage, startling both the staff and the client. She decided to ask him to leave the premises. When she confronted him about his inappropriate behaviour, he ignored her and continued livestreaming. In response, she attempted to push his phone away, prompting him to retaliate by throwing her to the floor, causing her injuries. The police have taken statements from both parties and are reviewing CCTV footage from the spa to ensure fairness in the investigation. Officer Kittipong, Deputy Inspector of Pattaya City Police, confirmed that the case is under investigation, with all necessary steps being taken to ensure justice for both sides. -- 2024-11-14

Bangkok: Ratchadaphisek land listed for 11 billion baht sale by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A prominent businessman has put a substantial parcel of land up for sale in the Ratchadaphisek area, valued at 1.5 million baht per square wah, amounting to over 11 billion baht. This prime location has attracted interest from Chinese investors keen on developing a hotel. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343508-bangkok-ratchadaphisek-land-listed-for-11-billion-baht-sale/

A prominent businessman has put a substantial parcel of land up for sale in the Ratchadaphisek area, valued at 1.5 million baht per square wah, amounting to over 11 billion baht. This prime location has attracted interest from Chinese investors keen on developing a hotel. Over 19 rai of land, located along Ratchadaphisek Road and near the Eastern Orange Line of the MRT, has been listed for urgent sale after being left vacant for several years. This land, originally totalling 28 rai, belongs to Ratchada Business District Co., a business group associated with the well-known entrepreneur Sathit Witthayakorn. Previously, eight rai were sold to the insurance giant AIA Thailand for 3.5 billion baht, setting a record price of 1.1 million baht per square wah in 2021. The remaining 19 rai of land has now been placed on the market, with the asking price set at 1.5 million baht per square wah. The total area listed for sale amounts to over 11 billion baht, although negotiations on the price are possible. Interest has been significant since the sale announcement, with notable interest from Chinese investors. The strategic location, adjacent to the Thailand Cultural Centre MRT station and the interchange between the Orange and Blue Lines, makes it an attractive site for hotel development. Sathit previously mentioned that the entire parcel of 28 rai was intended as a personal land bank. Plans had been considered for developing the remaining 20 rai into a mixed-use project, including hotels and condominiums. However, due to the current circumstances, these plans have been postponed, though the land remains available for purchase if a suitable buyer is found. Patrchai Thaveewong, Director of Research and Communication at Colliers International Thailand, noted that there has been no land transaction along Ratchadaphisek Road for over three years since AIA’s purchase at 1.1 million baht per square wah. The newly listed 19 rai is a large and high-value plot, standing out in comparison to the adjacent AIA property. “The land along Ratchadaphisek has not seen any sales activity for more than three years, which makes this sale quite significant.” The market dynamics in Ratchadaphisek are shifting, with this sale marking a potential turning point in land transactions in the area. The interest from international investors, especially from China, indicates a broader trend of foreign investment in Thailand’s burgeoning property market. As the land sale progresses, the business community and potential developers await further developments, considering the implications for future projects in this vibrant and strategically located part of Bangkok. The outcome of this sale could set a new benchmark for land prices and development opportunities in the area, influencing the direction of urban growth and investment in Thailand’s capital city, reported KhaoSod. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-14

Thailand's Loy Krathong Festival Illuminates Rivers Nationwide Picture courtesy: Media of Thailand Celebrated 15 November across Thailand, the Loy Krathong festival sees communities gather to release beautiful, candlelit offerings called krathongs onto rivers, canals, and lakes. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343505-thailands-loy-krathong-festival-illuminates-rivers-nationwide/

Picture courtesy: Media of Thailand Celebrated 15 November across Thailand, the Loy Krathong festival sees communities gather to release beautiful, candlelit offerings called krathongs onto rivers, canals, and lakes. Taking place on the full moon night of the twelfth month in the Thai lunar calendar, it typically falls in November. The festival is deeply rooted in tradition, offering a moment of reflection, gratitude, and wishes for the future. The name "Loy Krathong" translates to "float a basket," accurately describing the main activity where individuals release krathongs made from banana stalks and leaves, adorned with flowers, candles, and incense. The act is multi-symbolic: it represents paying homage to the river goddess Phra Mae Khongkha, asking forgiveness for any harm done to the waters, and wishing for good luck. Some believe it to be a form of worship to Lord Buddha or the Hindu god Vishnu. An essential aspect of the festival is its diverse regional celebrations. In Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai holds the Yee Peng Festival, where lanterns are launched into the sky, creating a breathtaking display. Meanwhile, in the Northeast, Nakhon Phanom transforms the riverbanks with Lai Reua Fai – decorated boats lit with elaborate illuminations. These variations highlight the rich cultural tapestry within Thailand. In recent years, environmental awareness has become a prominent aspect of Loy Krathong. While traditionally krathongs are crafted from biodegradable banana materials, the sheer volume can lead to waste issues. Consequently, communities are now encouraged to create krathongs from eco-friendly materials like bread, which fish can consume, or to limit the number of krathongs floated. Loy Krathong remains an enchanting celebration, capturing the delicate balance of tradition and modern environmental consciousness, inviting both locals and visitors to participate in its serene yet vibrant rituals. -- 2024-11-14

Trump's Trade Policies Threaten Thai Economy Image composite: ASEN NOW Thailand is facing potential economic challenges as former US President Donald Trump's proposed tariffs are set to impact global trade, specifically targeting countries like China, and indirectly affecting others reliant on export. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343504-trumps-trade-policies-threaten-thai-economy/

Image composite: ASEN NOW Thailand is facing potential economic challenges as former US President Donald Trump's proposed tariffs are set to impact global trade, specifically targeting countries like China, and indirectly affecting others reliant on export. Trump has proposed a significant increase in tariffs, with a 20% general tariff on imports and a hefty 60% on imports from China. While his aim is to revitalise domestic jobs in the US, the ripple effects could spell trouble for Thailand, heavily reliant on its export sector. The US is Thailand's number one export destination, accounting for 17% of its export market. China's share stands at 12%, and indirectly could be as high as 17% via re-exports through neighbouring countries like Malaysia and Singapore. These countries form essential channels for Thai products to reach global markets, making them crucial partners for Thailand's economic stability. Thailand, with exports constituting 65.4% of its GDP, would be significantly affected by any slowdown in global trade, especially with such heavyweight markets being targeted by US tariffs. During the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, Thailand's over-reliance on exports was evident when the economy contracted by 6.1%, compared to an Asean average of 3.2%. Furthermore, Trump's potential implementation of strict 'Rules of Origin' could further complicate matters, potentially limiting Thailand's capacity to mitigate tariff impacts by producing goods on behalf of foreign companies like China. These rules demand that a certain percentage of a product's components are sourced locally to qualify for tariff reductions, making it harder for countries like Thailand to bypass higher tariff costs through manufacturing collaborations. As China and Thailand both grapple with domestic issues - China with its real estate crunch and Thailand with household debts - the added pressure of altered US trade policies could push both economies towards recession, highlighting the global interconnectedness that makes such protectionist policies significantly impactful, writes Chartchai Parasuk, PhD, for Bangkok Post. -- 2024-11-14

Thailand Woos U.S. Film Crews with 30% Cash Rebate Policy Picture courtesy: 77kaoded Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has launched a 30% cash rebate scheme aimed at enticing U.S. filmmakers to shoot in Thailand, projecting this initiative will generate over 10 billion baht in spending next year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343502-thailand-woos-us-film-crews-with-30-cash-rebate-policy/

Picture courtesy: 77kaoded Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has launched a 30% cash rebate scheme aimed at enticing U.S. filmmakers to shoot in Thailand, projecting this initiative will generate over 10 billion baht in spending next year. On 12 November, Paetongtarn hosted a networking reception in Los Angeles, joined by Charles H. Rivkin, Chairman and CEO of the Motion Picture Association (MPA), along with key figures from major U.S. film studios. Highlighting Thailand’s appeal as a global filming destination, Paetongtarn noted that in the past year alone, over 450 films from 40 countries were shot in Thailand, injecting approximately 7 billion baht (USD 190 million) into the economy. American productions accounted for 34 films, making the U.S. the largest foreign contributor. The new rebate policy allows for a 30% cash rebate without an upper limit on spending per project, providing strong incentives for major studios. Rivkin and other executives from companies such as Disney, HBO, Netflix, and Sony expressed enthusiasm for Thailand’s enhanced incentives, praising the country's commitment to supporting the global film industry. Rivkin noted that the initiative elevates Thailand's standing as a premier filming location in the region and boosts international investment. He added that U.S. productions filming in Thailand contribute an estimated USD 1.3 million daily to the local economy and generate local employment. Paetongtarn's dialogue with top executives, including Disney’s Cathleen Taff, HBO’s Jay Roewe, Amazon’s Vernon Sanders, NBCUniversal’s Chris Miller, and Paramount’s Sharon Keyser, aimed to strengthen Thailand's cultural presence on the global stage, reported 77kaoded. These partnerships are set to support Thailand’s soft power strategy, enriching its creative industry and enhancing the economy through increased investment from abroad. The new rebate scheme is part of Thailand’s strategy to position itself as a leading hub for international film production, with hopes that increased investment will also contribute to local skill development and job creation within the Thai film industry. Executives from the 7 film companies who talked to the Prime Minister, they are as follows: 1. Mr. Charles H. Rivkin, President and CEO, Motion Picture Association of America 2. Ms. Cathleen Taff, President, Distribution, Franchise and Audience Analytics, The Walt Disney Company; 3. Mr. Jay Roewe, Senior Vice President, Production Planning and Incentives, HBO/HBO MAX and Warner Bros. Pictures 4. Mr. Vernon Sanders, Head of Television, Amazon/MGM Studios 5. Mr. Chris Miller, General Counsel, NBCUniversal Studio Group; 6. Mr. David Hyman, Chief Legal Officer, Netflix Studios 7. Ms. Jill Ratner, General Counsel, Sony Pictures Entertainment 8. Ms. Sharon Keyser, Senior Vice President Government Relations and Planning, Paramount Pictures Corporation” -- 2024-11-14

DSI Nabs Nigerian Crime Ring Leader in 50M Baht Horse Account Scam Picture courtesy: Daily News In a significant crackdown, Thailand's Department of Special Investigation (DSI) arrested a Nigerian national believed to be a central figure in a major fraud network involving horse accounts across the country, causing damages estimated at over 50 million baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343493-dsi-nabs-nigerian-crime-ring-leader-in-50m-baht-horse-account-scam/