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Thai PM says he opposes the recreational use of cannabis By Peter Roche Thailand’s new PM, Srettha Thavisin, has spoken out for the first time, expressing his feelings about last year’s delisting of cannabis as an illicit substance. The unilateral announcement was made by the Minister of Public Health on June 9. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306702-thai-pm-says-he-opposes-the-recreational-use-of-cannabis/

Thailand’s new PM, Srettha Thavisin, has spoken out for the first time, expressing his feelings about last year’s delisting of cannabis as an illicit substance. The unilateral announcement was made by the Minister of Public Health on June 9. The PM has made it clear that he opposes the idea of legalising recreational cannabis. But he said he supports the use of cannabis for medical purposes, which will remain the government’s policy during his time in office. The confusion from last year’s delisting in Thailand, which has resulted in a flourish of retail outlets around the country, was the result of no proper legislation being in force at the time. By Peter Roche Full story: PhuketGO 2023-09-15 - 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

Thailand’s e-cigarette ban draws ‘smokin’ support from concerned parents by Atima Homtientong Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post The ban on the import and sale of e-cigarettes in Thailand gained substantial approval, primarily from parents of students, as a recent survey conducted by the Research Centre for Social and Business Development (SAB) revealed. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306701-thailand’s-e-cigarette-ban-draws-‘smokin’-support-from-concerned-parents/

The ban on the import and sale of e-cigarettes in Thailand gained substantial approval, primarily from parents of students, as a recent survey conducted by the Research Centre for Social and Business Development (SAB) revealed. The majority of respondents voiced concerns over potential health risks, urging the government to keep the prohibition in place. The SAB unveiled these results during a seminar on Wednesday, where they presented their extensive survey findings to an audience of teachers and parents. The Deputy Director of SAB, Suriyan Boontae highlighted that out of 5,582 respondents from across the country, an overwhelming 91% backed the continuation of the e-cigarette ban, believing it would reduce young people’s exposure to smoking. The study population primarily comprised 4,087 parents of students from upper primary schools to high schools. The remaining participants were school teachers and administrators. A significant 80% of those surveyed were aware of the detrimental health impacts of smoking e-cigarettes. An equal percentage perceived e-cigarettes as a potential gateway to illicit drug use. Asst Professor Dr Vijj Kasemsap, Director of the Tobacco Control Research and Knowledge Management Centre (TRC), seized this opportunity to address the newly formed administration. He stressed the importance of a united front from the ministries of public health, commerce and finance, and their executives, along with the Consumer Protection Commission, to uphold the ban on the import and sale of e-cigarettes. by Atima Homtientong Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Full story: The Thaiger 2023-09-15 - 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 government to revoke redundant NCPO directives, streamlining functions by Atima Homtientong Picture courtesy of NDTV. The Government of Thailand has initiated plans to consult the Council of State, its legal advisory body, on revoking certain directives and proclamations issued by the now-disbanded National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306696-thai-government-to-revoke-redundant-ncpo-directives-streamlining-functions/

The Government of Thailand has initiated plans to consult the Council of State, its legal advisory body, on revoking certain directives and proclamations issued by the now-disbanded National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO). Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, announced this move, citing that some of the NCPO’s orders are currently redundant or seen as hindrances to the smooth operation of government functions and the everyday lives of Thai citizens. On an earlier occasion, the government spokesperson, Chai Wacharonke revealed that the prime minister had directed various ministries and government agencies to reassess the relevance of retaining any directives they had previously received from the NCPO. The deadline for such requests to the cabinet has been fixed for October 9. Failing a plea for retention, these orders are set to be annulled. In response to queries on how the government plans to retract these directives, Wacharonke stated, The current government is a sovereign entity so it can revoke all NCPO orders straight away. He also clarified that even mandates issued under Section 44 of the interim constitution, enacted post the 2014 coup, could be withdrawn, provided no requests for their extension are made by the set date. by Atima Homtientong Picture courtesy of NDTV. Full story: The Thaiger 2023-09-15 - 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 tourism aims sky-high: 3 trillion baht revenue target unveiled by Alex Morgan Photo by Lkszy Dgtl on Unsplash The Thai tourism and sports minister announced an ambitious new target for foreign tourism revenue: an unprecedented 3 trillion baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306695-thai-tourism-aims-sky-high-3-trillion-baht-revenue-target-unveiled/

The Thai tourism and sports minister announced an ambitious new target for foreign tourism revenue: an unprecedented 3 trillion baht. The minister, Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol, revealed the goal, which marks a considerable increase from the 1.9 trillion baht recorded in 2019, is part of a broader strategy to position the nation as a leading hub for sports and entertainment. Sudawan acknowledged that while the government is eager to reach this lofty target, an action plan is yet to be finalised. She referenced the recent Cabinet decision to exempt visas for citizens of select countries as an initial step towards boosting tourist numbers. “Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has provided us with avenues to draw in more tourists, beginning with the removal of visa requirements for some and simplifying airport travel procedures. by Alex Morgan Photo by Lkszy Dgtl on Unsplash Full story: [source name + source link] 2023-09-15 - 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

Unexpected twist: Chinese accident investigation unveils chilling kidnap-ransom scheme in Bangkok by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ สนามบอล ไปทางไหน Royal Thai Police officers, investigating a car accident between Thai and Chinese drivers on Bangkok’s Sirat Expressway, stumbled upon a shocking twist—an unexpected link to a chilling kidnap-for-ransom scheme. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306693-unexpected-twist-chinese-accident-investigation-unveils-chilling-kidnap-ransom-scheme-in-bangkok/

Ministry of Finance Forecasts Significant Surplus in 2023 Tax Revenue by Krajangwit Johjit BANGKOK (NNT) - The Ministry of Finance is forecasting a substantial surplus in government tax revenue for the fiscal year 2023, exceeding the target by a minimum of 100 billion baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306691-ministry-of-finance-forecasts-significant-surplus-in-2023-tax-revenue/

BANGKOK (NNT) - The Ministry of Finance is forecasting a substantial surplus in government tax revenue for the fiscal year 2023, exceeding the target by a minimum of 100 billion baht. According to Deputy Minister of Finance Krisada Chinavicharana, the surplus is primarily attributed to an additional 60-70 billion baht generated from various government revenue sources. Despite a projected loss of 15 billion baht in diesel fuel taxes, the overall revenue outlook remains positive. Krisada stated that the buoyant economic growth, driven notably by the return of foreign tourists and an uptick in domestic consumption, has played a pivotal role in surpassing revenue expectations. The reduction in the excise tax on diesel fuel by 2.50 baht per liter, effective from September 20 and continuing until the year’s end, is also estimated to result in a 15 billion baht revenue reduction for the Finance Ministry. This loss will be distributed over fiscal years 2023 and 2024. Revenue Department Director-General Lawan Sangsanit reported that the department is expected to exceed its tax revenue target by approximately 180 billion baht in the current fiscal year. Looking ahead, several factors could alter or even impact tax revenue in the coming fiscal year, including the economic stimulus measures introduced by the new government and indications of a slowing economic growth trajectory. by Krajangwit Johjit Source: NNT 2023-09-15 - 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 PM ‘splits’ salary option sparks debate among civil servants by Atima Homtientong Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin yesterday responded to criticisms surrounding the recent Cabinet resolution, which offers civil servants the option of receiving their monthly salary in two instalments instead of the usual single payment. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306690-thai-pm-‘splits’-salary-option-sparks-debate-among-civil-servants/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin yesterday responded to criticisms surrounding the recent Cabinet resolution, which offers civil servants the option of receiving their monthly salary in two instalments instead of the usual single payment. The resolution, primarily aimed at stimulating the economy, was unveiled during the first Cabinet meeting of his administration on Wednesday and is tentatively set to start in January. With an estimated three million state officials nationwide, including teachers, police officers, and armed forces personnel, the new payment system could potentially have a significant impact. Nevertheless, Srettha dismissed rumours that the government was short of cash, necessitating this change in salary distribution. The 61 year old PM justified the decision by stating that the government would have to prepare to pay salaries even earlier than usual since the first half of the salary would be disbursed mid-month. In response to concerns about civil servants’ ability to manage their finances with this new system, especially given the need to pay off debts by the end of the month, Srettha suggested that it could be possible for them to negotiate two payments per month with their creditors. by Atima Homtientong Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post. Full story: The Thaiger 2023-09-15 - 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 education ministry ‘tablets’ a bright future: Bringing equality to classrooms by Atima Homtienton Picture courtesy of Tony Education. The Thai Education Ministry is set to revive a decade-old initiative, which was originally launched by a previous Pheu Thai government, to distribute a tablet computer to each student and teacher across the country. This initiative aims to promote equal educational opportunities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306688-thai-education-ministry-‘tablets’-a-bright-future-bringing-equality-to-classrooms/

The Thai Education Ministry is set to revive a decade-old initiative, which was originally launched by a previous Pheu Thai government, to distribute a tablet computer to each student and teacher across the country. This initiative aims to promote equal educational opportunities. The announcement was made yesterday by Education Minister Permpoon Chidchob and his deputy Surasak Phancharoenworakul, both members of the Bhumjaithai Party in the Pheu Thai-led coalition. During a gathering of ministry officials, their stated goal was to endorse good learning, with happiness. Permpoon revealed that every student would be granted a tablet computer to lessen their expenses and diminish disparities in educational opportunities under the one student, one tablet scheme. He added that he was currently evaluating the total cost of the scheme, suggesting that if the current budget was not adequate, tablets could be obtained through borrowing or renting. However, A previous Democrat Party MP, Suchatvee Suwansawat expressed his concern about the programme to the Bangkok Post. While he concurred with the use of modern technology to assist learning and minimise educational inequality, he was hesitant about the scheme. by Atima Homtienton Picture courtesy of Tony Education. Full story: The Thaiger 2023-09-15 - 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

Thailand’s new Foreign Minister to highlight technology in foreign policy Technology is a new emphasis which Thailand will add to its foreign policy. Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara says it will help the country to play a more active role on the international stage. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306685-thailand’s-new-foreign-minister-to-highlight-technology-in-foreign-policy/

Technology is a new emphasis which Thailand will add to its foreign policy. Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara says it will help the country to play a more active role on the international stage. Parnpree said he also intends to use public diplomacy to engage Thai people, so that foreign policy can be used as a tool to help improve their livelihoods. He said one of the first things he plans to do, after accompanying Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin to attend the UN General Assembly in New York next week, is to visit people on the Thai-Cambodian border to learn about their living conditions and their expectations of the new government. Parnpree was speaking at a media reception at the Foreign Ministry on Thursday night, during which he offered a glimpse into the foreign policy direction of the Srettha government. Full story: Thai PBS 2023-09-15 - 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

Southern Thai community shaken by drug-infused gay sex scandal involving abbot by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook KhaoSod A startling revelation has ruffled the robes of both locals and monks alike in the tranquil southern province of Phattalung after a sinning abbot had been dealing in more than just sermons, he was caught offering drugs to men in the community in exchange for gay sex, leaving the community in disbelief. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306683-southern-thai-community-shaken-by-drug-infused-gay-sex-scandal-involving-abbot/

Thai Senator in underage sex sting, Pita in TIME “100NEXT” list : Tim Newton Today - Sep 15 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306677-thai-senator-in-underage-sex-sting-pita-in-time-“100next”-list-tim-newton-today-sep-15/

Six people, including a Thai Senator from one of the major coalition parties, arrested over underage prostitution in Saraburi, shooting at Samui Airport over taxi fare grievances, major regional drug bust involving 20 tonnes of illicit drugs, 2 Thai arrested over wire theft in Pattaya, Move Forward Party leader Pita Limjareonrat included in TIME Magazine NEXT 100 list. Chinese EV manufacturers making their way into the world's Top 10 car makers. And the one child-one tablet policy to be reintroduced into Thai schools. Tim Newton Today is a daily take on Thai and regional news and issues of interest to expats and foreign tourists.

Opposition leader: The cog of Thai democracy that has shuddered to a halt By Thai PBS World’s Political Desk Thailand’s new prime minister and his Cabinet have officially begun work after delivering their policy statement in Parliament. However, the country will be deprived of an opposition leader for the foreseeable future, as potential candidates remain tied up in legal issues. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306674-opposition-leader-the-cog-of-thai-democracy-that-has-shuddered-to-a-halt/

Thailand’s new prime minister and his Cabinet have officially begun work after delivering their policy statement in Parliament. However, the country will be deprived of an opposition leader for the foreseeable future, as potential candidates remain tied up in legal issues. The post of opposition leader was first enshrined in Thailand half a century ago via the constitution of 1974. It stated that the post would go by royal command to the House of Representatives’ largest political party with no Cabinet seats but at least one-fifth of all MP seats. Various changes were made to that clause in the constitutions of 1978, 1991, 1997, 2007, and 2017. The current charter (2017) states that the House opposition leader shall be an MP who leads the political party with the largest number of opposition MPs, none of whom hold the post of government minister, House speaker, or deputy speaker. Legal experts say the clause prevents the largest opposition party, Move Forward, from taking the opposition leader’s post as its MP Padipat Suntiphada is a deputy House speaker. Furthermore, Move Forward leader Pita Limjaroenrat has been suspended as an MP pending a Constitutional Court case regarding his qualifications. Meanwhile, the Democrats, the second largest opposition party, remain leaderless after Jurin Laksanawisit stepped down following a poor performance in the May 14 election. By Thai PBS World’s Political Desk Full story: Thai PBS 2023-09-15 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Chiang Mai University professor survives on just 118 baht per month amidst civil servant salary debate by Nattapong Westwood Tatsanai Sethaseree next to his artwork. Photo courtesy of Khaosod A Chiang Mai University professor revealed he struggled for a year on a monthly wage of just 118 baht, a situation that led to a difficult life, reports Khaosod. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306672-chiang-mai-university-professor-survives-on-just-118-baht-per-month-amidst-civil-servant-salary-debate/

Opinion: Thailand’s new government falling short on military reform by Arun Saronchai In Thailand’s political history, the word “change” has often been accompanied by ambivalence, coups, and sadly, bloodshed. Against this tumultuous backdrop, when newly elected Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin took office, the nation’s youth and reformists looked to his government cautiously for signs of change. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306670-opinion-thailand’s-new-government-falling-short-on-military-reform/

In Thailand’s political history, the word “change” has often been accompanied by ambivalence, coups, and sadly, bloodshed. Against this tumultuous backdrop, when newly elected Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin took office, the nation’s youth and reformists looked to his government cautiously for signs of change. Srettha, after all, was vocal about ending mandatory military conscription in favor of a voluntary system, a cause that resonated deeply with a generation that had taken to the streets to demand just that. However, the turn of events post-election suggests that the winds of change may just be empty rhetoric—a devastating betrayal for a nation that has long sought substantial reform in its military apparatus. For years, students and young activists have been protesting against the mandatory conscription that robs them of their youth and freedom, only to perpetuate a militaristic status quo. Their hopes were buoyed when Srettha indicated a policy shift. Yet, the vagueness of his recent announcements—where he highlighted a mere “reduction” in the number of conscripts without a definite timeline for its abolishment—does little but stir skepticism. by Arun Saronchai Full story: THAI ENQUIRER 2023-09-15 - 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