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Thailand’s deputy police chief set for National Security Council role by Mitch Connor PHOTO: via Thailand Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin approved the appointment of Deputy National Police Chief Police General Roy Inkhapairote as the Secretary-General of the National Security Council (NSC). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316153-thailand’s-deputy-police-chief-set-for-national-security-council-role/

Thailand Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin approved the appointment of Deputy National Police Chief Police General Roy Inkhapairote as the Secretary-General of the National Security Council (NSC). The appointment, which has received unanimous agreement from all relevant parties, now awaits the royal seal of approval. The role of NSC secretary-general has been left unclaimed following the retirement of Gen. Supot Malaniyom on September 30. His deputy, Chatchai Bangchuad, has since stepped up to the plate, assuming the responsibilities of acting secretary-general. Pol. Gen. Roy Inkhapairote was among the top contenders for the role of national police chief last year, a position that ultimately went to Pol. Gen. Torsak Sukvimol. Despite Pol. Gen. Roy’s seniority, Pol. Gen. Torsak was promoted to the leading role. The fresh appointment to the NSC is considered a fitting alternative for Pol. Gen. Roy, who is set to retire later this year. The reshuffling of Pol. Gen. Roy’s role will further enable the advancement of an assistant national police chief to the position of deputy chief. Pol. Lt. Gen. Prachuap Wongsuk, the most senior assistant police chief, is anticipated to receive this promotion come April. He is currently set to retire in 2025, reported the Bangkok Post. by Mitch Connor PHOTO: via Full story: The Thaiger 2024-01-05 - 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 National Soft Power Strategy Committee has unveiled modifications to the Thai film censorship guidelines, acknowledging that the existing restrictions are hindering creativity and no longer reflect the social landscape of Thailand. This shift in policy now allows private sector input in the film and video consideration committee, as revealed by the National Committee on Soft Power Development’s chairwoman, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, on Thursday. The only films still barred from screening in Thailand will be those with content potentially impacting the monarchy. Films portraying religious themes or explicit sexual content will now be subject to reclassification to suit the relevant audience, as opposed to facing outright prohibition. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Varuth Hirunyatheb Full story: The Thaiger 2024-01-05 - 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

Five Phuket Boat Drivers Test Positive for Illegal Drugs By Goongnang Suksawat Phuket – Five boat drivers tested positive for illegal drugs recently at a pier in Thalang after a random check. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316149-five-phuket-boat-drivers-test-positive-for-illegal-drugs/

Phuket – Five boat drivers tested positive for illegal drugs recently at a pier in Thalang after a random check. The Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat has ordered to conduct drug testing for boat drivers at piers in Phuket following a fatal boat accident that took the life of a young Russian girl in which the captain later tested positive for amphetamines. On Wednesday (January 3rd) a team of relevant authorities conducted random drug testing for boat drivers at the Ao Po Pier in Pa Klok. Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-01-05 - 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

Teenagers arrested in Phitsanulok for gunfight over love dispute by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of Daily News Yesterday (January 4) two 18 year old male teenagers were apprehended by the Phitsanulok City Police, along with a six-chambered firearm and a quantity of ammunition. The arrest took place at a residence in Ban Pa Subdistrict, Phitsanulok City. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316148-teenagers-arrested-in-phitsanulok-for-gunfight-over-love-dispute/

Yesterday (January 4) two 18 year old male teenagers were apprehended by the Phitsanulok City Police, along with a six-chambered firearm and a quantity of ammunition. The arrest took place at a residence in Ban Pa Subdistrict, Phitsanulok City. The arrest follows an incident on January 2, when a gunfight broke out near a water canal adjacent to Wat Tan Suwan in Don Thong Subdistrict, Phitsanulok City. Four male teenagers, aged between 17 and 18, were injured. The first 17 year old victim was shot in the neck and right side of his head. The second, also 17, was shot in the forehead, torso, and right arm, causing paralysis. The third 18 year old victim was shot in the torso and right leg. The fourth, a 24 year old named Athikom, was also injured. All victims were transported to Phutthachinarat Hospital for treatment. by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of Daily News Full story: The Thaiger 2024-01-05 - 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 5 January 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316147-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-friday-5-january-2024/

Opposition parties have criticized the government's plans to increase military spending to 198 billion baht in 2024, 3 billion baht higher than last year, A move Forward MP pointed out that increasing the size of the military ran contrary to the government's plans to reform, modernize and downsize the country's armed forces. Prime Minister Thavisin and several MPs have defended the proposed Land Bridge megaproject, saying it will help with the country's economy and development. Adding: The trillion baht project will help the country be more competitive, And would help ease congestion on the Strait of Malacca, 60% of global oil supplies pass through the stretch of water, The chairman of the monorail train operator said the wheels of all Yellow Line trains will be replaced to ensure public safety, following an incident on Tuesday when a wheel fell from a train and hit a taxi. He said.., about 600 wheels on 30 Yellow Line trains have been checked so far.. Thailand’s Consumer Council has called for a complete inspection of the Yellow and Pink monorail Lines. A committee on national soft power has announced changes to rules for censorship in Thai movie productions, saying strict rules limit creativity and are no longer relevant to today’s society. Movies will see a new classification rating which will be used as an advisory for viewers, Thailand has often been criticized over its censorship regulations. Around The Region Indonesia’s vote watchdog yesterday ruled that President Joko Widodo’s son – the leading candidate’s running mate in the coming presidential election – had broken rules during his campaign, a breach that could leave him facing a reprimand, but not disqualification. He allegedly broke regulations when he handed out free milk to people at a public "car-free day" last month. Chiang Mai and the north: sunny 31C Bangkok: Sunny partly cloudy 34 Pattaya: Sunny partly cloudy, 33 Phuket and the south: Sunny partly cloudy, 32C Hua Hin: Sunny, light cloud 32 AQI moderate 70 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 2024-01-05 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

Closure Order Issued for "Happy Club" - Khon Kaen Entertainment Venue Shut Down for 5 Years Picture: Daily News The provincial authorities in Khon Kaen have ordered the closure of the entertainment venue, "Happy Club," for a period of 5 years. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316142-closure-order-issued-for-happy-club-khon-kaen-entertainment-venue-shut-down-for-5-years/

Chemical Leak from 200-Liter Pickup Prompts Emergency Response in Samut Prakan Picture: Siam Rath The Facebook page "ข่าวสารเมืองปราการ v2" brought attention to an incident involving a 200-liter pickup truck transporting chemical containers that had experienced a leak. Authorities are currently addressing the situation in the vicinity of Soi Phrasawang 12. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316141-chemical-leak-from-200-liter-pickup-prompts-emergency-response-in-samut-prakan/

Thailand’s tourism operators question 40 million visitors target by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of iStock The government’s ambitious target of attracting 40 million foreign visitors is viewed as daunting by Thailand tourism operators, considering factors such as high travel costs, diminished demand in big markets such as China and Russia, and competition from surrounding nations. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316146-thailand’s-tourism-operators-question-40-million-visitors-target/

The government’s ambitious target of attracting 40 million foreign visitors is viewed as daunting by Thailand tourism operators, considering factors such as high travel costs, diminished demand in big markets such as China and Russia, and competition from surrounding nations. Thanet Supornsahasrungsi, who heads the Association of Chon Buri Tourism Federation, pinpointed the stagnant Chinese market as a significant issue, with only 3.5 million visitors last year, a sharp decline from the nearly 10 million seen in 2019. In 2023, Thailand recorded roughly 28 million foreign tourists and revenue of 1.2 trillion baht (US$34 billion), falling notably short of the nearly 40 million arrivals and 1.9 trillion baht (US$54 billion) revenue in 2019, reported Bangkok Post. Thanet suggested a reevaluation of Thailand’s approach to the Chinese market, given the low confidence in Thailand’s safety and a struggling Chinese economy. He also expressed concerns over the declining number of Russian tourists, which stood at 1.48 million. Russian flight operators’ difficulties in expanding their fleets due to geopolitical tensions casts a shadow over future trends. Thanet proposed that the government could encourage more Thai airlines to introduce direct flights to Russia. by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of iStock Full story: The Thaiger 2024-01-05 - 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

Starbucks steams up with price hike, now costlier than Thailand’s minimum wage by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Starbucks Thailand Starbucks, one of Thailand’s most popular coffee chains, announced that the prices of its beverages will be increased by 5 baht at all of its stores across the country from today. One cup of coffee from Starbucks is now more expensive than Thailand’s national minimum wage. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316145-starbucks-steams-up-with-price-hike-now-costlier-than-thailand’s-minimum-wage/

Starbucks, one of Thailand’s most popular coffee chains, announced that the prices of its beverages will be increased by 5 baht at all of its stores across the country from today. One cup of coffee from Starbucks is now more expensive than Thailand’s national minimum wage. The corporation says the reason for the price hike is due to the current economic situation, which, according to an official Starbucks statement, has caused the cost of operation and management to increase its prices. Starbucks Thailand apologised for the inconvenience to all brand loyalists, stating that the company had tried to maintain the price to avoid impacting customers. The price increase will apply to beverage items only. Other products, including desserts, coffee beans, ready-to-order soft drinks and drinkware, as well as add-on toppings such as syrups and whipped cream, will be offered at the same prices. Drink prices for orders placed through online platforms will also increase. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Starbucks Thailand Full story: The Thaiger 2024-01-05 - 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

Government accused by Move Forward of fiddling calculation of GDP Move Forward party-list MP Sirikanya Tansakul has questioned the government’s budgeting for the 2024 fiscal year, saying that it does not reflect the government’s claim that Thailand is facing several crises. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316144-government-accused-by-move-forward-of-fiddling-calculation-of-gdp/

Move Forward party-list MP Sirikanya Tansakul has questioned the government’s budgeting for the 2024 fiscal year, saying that it does not reflect the government’s claim that Thailand is facing several crises. She also accused the government of cheating in the calculation of GDP, claiming that it will be able to achieve 5% growth in the first year of its term in office by including the inflation rate in the calculation, adding that no country has ever tried this method of calculation before. She also noted that no money is allocated in the budget bill for several government projects which require funding, citing as one example the controversial “digital wallet” scheme, which requires about 500 billion baht in funding, to be secured through public borrowing by virtue of a loan bill. During the debate on the government’s budget bill for 2024, Sirikanya singled out several shortcomings, saying that such mistakes are inexcusable, but indicative of the government’s lack of professionalism. Full story: Thai PBS 2024-01-05 - 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 provincial authorities in Khon Kaen have ordered the closure of the entertainment venue, "Happy Club," for a period of 5 years. This decision follows widespread rumors linking the establishment to a controversial relationship involving "Somrak," an individual, and a 17-year-old girl. However, the venue has the option to file a legal challenge within the next 90 days reported Daily News. On January 4th, Mr. Kraison Kongsilad, the Chief of Khon Kaen Provincial Administration, signed Order No. 66/2567 directing the shutdown of "Happy Club," located at 212 Prachasamran Road, Tambon Nai Muang, Muang District, Khon Kaen. The closure is effective from January 8th, 2567, for a period of 5 years. Picture: Daily News The decision comes after a thorough examination of evidence, witness testimonies, and conflicting statements from both parties. It was revealed that on December 9th, 2566, around 9:30 PM, an individual under 20 years old entered the establishment and provided a mobile phone displaying a photo of their ID card to gain access. Picture: Daily News The venue's card, used for verification, was found to lack proper age verification procedures, allowing underage individuals to access the services. This oversight raised concerns about the establishment's intentions, indicating a willingness to serve minors until the incident occurred. The authorities acted following a complaint by the victim, alleging misconduct and harm to her physical and mental well-being during an incident at a hotel. Consequently, the order mandates the immediate closure of "Happy Club" and prohibits the operation of similar establishments in the region for a period of 5 years, starting from January 8th, 2567. The venue has the right to challenge this order within 90 days by submitting a petition to the Khon Kaen Provincial Court. Top Picture: Daily News -- ASEAN NOW 2024-01-05 - 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

The Facebook page "ข่าวสารเมืองปราการ v2" brought attention to an incident involving a 200-liter pickup truck transporting chemical containers that had experienced a leak. Authorities are currently addressing the situation in the vicinity of Soi Phrasawang 12. Initial reports suggest that the spilled substance is a chemical pesticide, and exposure may lead to health risks, including dizziness, nausea, vomiting, headaches, and other adverse effects, reported Siam Rath. Picture: Siam Rath To manage the situation effectively, traffic along Soi Phrasawang 12 has been temporarily halted as authorities work to contain the spill. Public announcements have been issued, advising residents in the affected area to monitor their health over the next 2-3 days. Individuals experiencing any unusual symptoms are encouraged to promptly seek medical attention. Authorities are actively coordinating with local agencies to ensure a swift and safe resolution to the chemical spill. Top Picture: Siam Rath -- ASEAN NOW 2024-01-05 - 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

Corrections panel to consider rules for convicts to serve terms outside prison The Justice Ministry will call a meeting of the corrections committee on January 11th, to consider the rules for screening convicts who are qualified to serve their remaining terms outside a prison, according to a well-informed source in the Justice Ministry. The rules were drafted by an 8-member panel, led by Chutarut Chintakanon, deputy director-general of the Corrections Department. The source disclosed that the panel has come under pressure, through political interference, to draft the rules in the favour of individuals, forcing some panel members to take leave. The source said that the rules will be in line international standards, similar to those applicable to pro-democracy Myanmar leader Aung San Suu-Kyi, who was moved from prison to house arrest in Myanmar, wearing a monitoring ankle bracelet. Full story: Thai PBS 2024-01-05 - 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

Govt Urged To Cancel Chinese Submarine Deal By Thai Newsroom Reporters Defence Minister Suthin Khlangsang with a Chinese-built S26T submarine in the background. Photo: Matichon THE PHEU THAI-LED GOVERNMENT was yesterday (Jan.4) encouraged to cancel the navy’s Chinese submarine purchase deal since the Chinese shipbuilder has already failed to deliver it. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316131-govt-urged-to-cancel-chinese-submarine-deal/

Defence Minister Suthin Khlangsang with a Chinese-built S26T submarine in the background. Photo: Matichon THE PHEU THAI-LED GOVERNMENT was yesterday (Jan.4) encouraged to cancel the navy’s Chinese submarine purchase deal since the Chinese shipbuilder has already failed to deliver it. During a second day of floor debate on the 2024 budget bill, Move Forward MP Chayapon Sathorndee suggested Defence Minister Suthin Khlangsang to entirely scrap the contract earlier signed between the Thai navy and China Shipbuilding & Offshore International Co. for the 12.4 billion baht purchase of a Yuan-class S26T submarine for which a German-made MTU396 engine will be unavailable to install aboard. Chayapon advised the Chinese submarine purchase deal be cancelled by the Thai navy once and for all since the troublesome boat’s delivery schedule has already been overdue for three months now. The Chinese government had earlier encouraged the Thai navy to accept a Chinese-made CHD620 engine in place of the unavailable German-made engine for use with the Chinese-built submarine but commanding admirals have remained non-committal so far. By Thai Newsroom Reporters Top: Defence Minister Suthin Khlangsang with a Chinese-built S26T submarine in the background. Photo: Matichon Full story: THAI NEWSROOM 2024-01-05 - 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

British tourist’s lost wallet returned by Thai hotel worker by Mitch Connor PHOTO: forbes A British holidaymaker on Koh Samui Island in Thailand is set to return home with a pleasant memory following a hotel worker’s return of his lost wallet during the new year celebrations. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316130-british-tourist’s-lost-wallet-returned-by-thai-hotel-worker/

A British holidaymaker on Koh Samui Island in Thailand is set to return home with a pleasant memory following a hotel worker’s return of his lost wallet during the new year celebrations. The wallet was found on Bophut Beach by Pakdee Trirat, an employee at the Holiday Inn Samui, amidst the festivities on the night of December 31. Cronulla Sharks handed a dream run while Melbourne Storm and Parramatta Eels face horror schedule in 2024 as NRL draw is released, and other top stories from November 13, 2023. Surat Thani Immigration Police Chief Naruewat Phutthawiro reported that the wallet, holding Thai and other currencies equating to roughly 30,000 baht, along with credit cards and a driving licence, was brought to the immigration police by Pakdee. After discovering the wallet, Pakdee sought assistance from the police to trace the owner. The immigration officials proceeded to examine their records, which revealed that the wallet belonged to 48 year old British national Paul Davies. Davies was residing in a leased house in Mae Nam, a subdistrict on Koh Samui Island. The police contacted Davies via the owner of the rented house and requested him to visit their office to reclaim his wallet from Pakdee. by Mitch Connor PHOTO: forbes Full story: The Thaiger 2024-01-05 - 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

City Hall city sweeps streets, leaves residents puzzled: 200 abandoned cars vanish by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post City Hall successfully wiped over 200 abandoned cars off the streets of Bangkok, leaving residents baffled. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316129-city-hall-city-sweeps-streets-leaves-residents-puzzled-200-abandoned-cars-vanish/