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Bangkok Airways eyes investment in proposed Phangnga airport to boost tourism by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Boosting Thailand’s tourism industry, Bangkok Airways has expressed keen interest in investing in the proposed airport in Phangnga if the government chooses to shift from a public scheme to a collaborative public-private partnership. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305977-bangkok-airways-eyes-investment-in-proposed-phangnga-airport-to-boost-tourism/

Phuket authorities dismiss concerns over rising Russian population and mafia claims by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of PR Phuket Yesterday, Phuket authorities refuted allegations that the island has been overrun by Russians, including members of the mafia. These claims were sparked by a report in Al Jazeera earlier this week, which highlighted concerns among locals. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305975-phuket-authorities-dismiss-concerns-over-rising-russian-population-and-mafia-claims/

UPDATE: Thai tourism set to soar with anticipated Chinese visa exemption by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post The Thai tourism industry is poised for a significant boost, as an anticipated visa exemption for Chinese travellers could trigger a surge in foreign tourists, according to Chinese government-owned Thai brokerage, CGS-CIMB Securities (Thailand). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305960-foreigners-laud-free-thai-visa-policy-for-chinese-tourists/?do=findComment&comment=18335974

Thai tourism set to soar with anticipated Chinese visa exemption by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post The Thai tourism industry is poised for a significant boost, as an anticipated visa exemption for Chinese travellers could trigger a surge in foreign tourists, according to Chinese government-owned Thai brokerage, CGS-CIMB Securities (Thailand). However, the firm predicts that the arrival figures will still lag behind the 2019 statistics due to the economic challenges faced by the mainland. The slow visa application process has been identified as a primary barrier to Thailand’s tourism recovery this year by the brokerage, which is 75% owned by China Galaxy International Financial Holdings. The firm suggests that eliminating the visa requirement may prompt a large influx of foreign tourists, particularly group travellers. “As regional competition intensifies, it is an opportune time for the new government to introduce measures to sustain Thailand’s economic recovery,” the brokerage stated in a research note. China lifted its restrictions on outbound tour groups to several countries, including South Korea and Japan, last month. Meanwhile, next month, the Indian government will hike the outbound remittance tax from 5% to 20% for overseas tours, encompassing payments for air tickets and hotels, reported Bangkok Post. Full story: https://thethaiger.com/news/business/thai-tourism-set-to-soar-with-anticipated-chinese-visa-exemption -- The Thaiger 2023-09-09 - 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: Pattaya authorities impose new rules on speedboat operators at Bali Hai Pier by Top Picture courtesy of Go Go Town In Pattaya City, the local authorities have put forth new stringent regulations to deal with issues plaguing speedboat operators at Bali Hai Pier. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305946-bali-hai-pier-speedboat-operators-banned-from-approaching-customers-standard-ticket-prices-set/?do=findComment&comment=18335929

Thai taxi drivers seek incentives to shift to electric vehicles by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Matichon Taxi drivers across Thailand, represented by the Thai Public Taxi Association, are petitioning the country’s transport minister for a financial incentive package to facilitate their switch to electric vehicles (EVs). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305970-thai-taxi-drivers-seek-incentives-to-shift-to-electric-vehicles/

Taxi drivers across Thailand, represented by the Thai Public Taxi Association, are petitioning the country’s transport minister for a financial incentive package to facilitate their switch to electric vehicles (EVs). Association Chairman, Sadit Jaitiang, plans to bring up this key concern during a vital meeting slated for next Friday with Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit. The meeting is expected to address a range of issues impacting taxi drivers’ welfare. Adopting EVs by the taxi industry would significantly lower carbon emissions and dust pollution in Thailand’s capital, according to Sadit. To incentivise this transition, the association is calling for tax reductions and subsidies, including a sizeable 300,000 baht (US$ 8,385) per unit subsidy for EVs. Sadit expressed concern over the financial strain taxi drivers are under, following the significant loss of business during the Covid-19 pandemic. He believes the transition to EVs without the proposed incentives would pose an additional financial burden on drivers who are already struggling to recover, reported Bangkok Post. by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Matichon Full story: https://thethaiger.com/news/national/thai-taxi-drivers-seek-incentives-to-shift-to-electric-vehicles -- The Thaiger 2023-09-09 - 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

Is Thailand’s education system safe in the hands of Bhumjaithai Party? By Thai PBS World’s General Desk Pol Gen Permpool Chidchob With a retired policeman at the helm of the Education Ministry, teachers and educators can only hope that Thailand’s education sector does not decline further under the new government. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305969-is-thailand’s-education-system-safe-in-the-hands-of-bhumjaithai-party/

With a retired policeman at the helm of the Education Ministry, teachers and educators can only hope that Thailand’s education sector does not decline further under the new government. “I don’t have any expectations,” Tanawat Suwannapan of Kru Kor Sorn (Teachers Ask to Teach) said about the appointment of Pol General Permpoon Chidchob as the new education minister. “I just hope he won’t add burdens to Thailand’s education.” Permpoon’s background Brother to Bhumjaithai Party patriarch Newin Chidchob and also former transport minister Saksayam Chidchob, Permpoon graduated from Ramkhamhaeng University’s Faculty of Law. He joined the police force in 1984 and spent 37 years in the ranks before retiring at the age of 60 in 2021. In other words, the new education minister’s career experience is limited to police work. By Thai PBS World’s General Desk Top picture: Pol Gen Permpool Chidchob Full story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/is-thailands-education-system-safe-in-the-hands-of-bhumjaithai-party/ -- Thai PBS 2023-09-09 - 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

Foreigners Laud Free Thai Visa Policy for Chinese tourists The Thai government's decision to introduce a free visa policy for Chinese tourists, commencing on October 1st, has garnered appreciation from international stakeholders. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305960-foreigners-laud-free-thai-visa-policy-for-chinese-tourists /

The Thai government's decision to introduce a free visa policy for Chinese tourists, commencing on October 1st, has garnered appreciation from international stakeholders. Stanley Kang, the esteemed Chairman of the Joint Foreign Chambers of Commerce in Thailand, commends the initiative. Yet, he underscores the need for a broader vision that seeks to attract visitors from regions beyond China, reported INN. Kang also emphasizes that while tourism is a significant facet of the economy, there's an immediate requirement for Thailand to proactively engage in diplomatic and trade dialogues with other nations. This is essential to expand and diversify its export markets. He further signals an impending need for the nation to create a more welcoming environment for international investors, promoting Thailand as a prime investment destination. On the topic of the anticipated minimum wage hike, Kang suggests a more cautious approach. While he acknowledges the merits of such a move, he believes that the economy's complete recovery should be the precursor to its implementation. The Thai government, he notes, plays an essential role in ensuring economic resilience, paving the way for businesses to thrive and making systematic, phased adjustments to the wage structure. -- ASEAN NOW 2023-09-09 - 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

Thai Authorities Extradite Human Trafficking Suspect from Bahrain A prominent human trafficking case has made significant progress with the Thai authorities successfully extraditing a key suspect from Bahrain. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305958-thai-authorities-extradite-human-trafficking-suspect-from-bahrain/

A prominent human trafficking case has made significant progress with the Thai authorities successfully extraditing a key suspect from Bahrain. The origins of this case date back to 2016 when the accused, married to a Bahraini national, allegedly lured Thai women to work in restaurants in Bahrain with promises of lucrative earnings, reported Siam Rath. Picture: Siam Rath Upon their arrival, the victims had their passports confiscated and were forced into prostitution across various hotels, with threats of withholding their documents unless hefty ransoms were paid. One of the victims managed to escape and reported the atrocities to Thai authorities. Consequently, charges were pressed against a group of four individuals in Nakhon Ratchasima province for human trafficking, exploitation, and coercion, among other charges. Picture: Siam Rath On June 15, 2023, the Bahraini police arrested the primary suspect. In collaboration with Thai authorities, and under international extradition laws, proceedings were initiated to extradite the accused to face trial in Thailand. The swift and efficient extradition showcases the strong cooperative ties between Thailand and Bahrain, highlighting their mutual commitment to combating international crime. The Thai Attorney General's office has expressed immense gratitude for the collaboration, emphasizing the importance of transnational teamwork in ensuring justice is served. -- ASEAN NOW 2023-09-09 - 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

Pareena Acquitted: Court Drops False Asset Declaration Charges On Friday (Sept 8), the Supreme Court dismissed charges against Ms. Pareena Kraikupt, a former Member of Parliament (MP) from Ratchaburi, representing the Palang Pracharat Party. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305957-pareena-acquitted-court-drops-false-asset-declaration-charges/

On Friday (Sept 8), the Supreme Court dismissed charges against Ms. Pareena Kraikupt, a former Member of Parliament (MP) from Ratchaburi, representing the Palang Pracharat Party. The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) had accused her of intentionally submitting a false statement of assets and liabilities, reported Sanook. The NACC alleged that Pareena included a loan agreement in her asset declaration, even though she had no rights to the mentioned contract, and concealed the possession of sacred amulets. The court found that Pareena had no malicious intent when she listed the loan agreement. The contract was the result of Mr. P. requesting campaign funding from Pariyana. In exchange, she gave money but took land title deeds as collateral, expecting Mr. P. to repay her later with a loan agreement. Pareena genuinely believed she had rights to the loan agreement due to this understanding. Regarding the sacred amulets mentioned in her assets, the court ruled that Pareena had no intent to deceive. An average person without expertise or knowledge about sacred amulets might not discern their real value or authenticity. -- ASEAN NOW 2023-09-09 - 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

Anutin Calls for Blacklist of Influential Figures after Police Shooting in Nakhon Pathom Picture: Thai Rath In light of a recent incident where a police officer was shot and killed in Nakhon Pathom, Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has directed all provincial governors to blacklist influential individuals to prevent their rise as mafias. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305954-anutin-calls-for-blacklist-of-influential-figures-after-police-shooting-in-nakhon-pathom/

In light of a recent incident where a police officer was shot and killed in Nakhon Pathom, Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has directed all provincial governors to blacklist influential individuals to prevent their rise as mafias. The tragic event took place in the residence of a well-known local leader in Nakhon Pathom, reported Thai Rath. Subsequent investigations revealed that the house belonged to "Kamnan Nok" and the perpetrator was identified as "Nong Tha Pha", a close associate, now under custody. On September 8th, at the Centara Grand at Central Plaza Lad Prao, during a provincial governors' meet-up, Anutin spoke about the issue. He emphasized that such events should not occur, and solutions must be sought to ensure public peace and safety. "As a governor and guardian of the city, we won't let such incidents happen again. We need to scrutinize how these individuals become local leaders and check their histories and behaviors. Anyone wielding such influence shouldn't lead the locals," Anutin remarked. Picture: Thai Rath -- ASEAN NOW 2023-09-09 - 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

U.S. meets Surachate 'Big Joke' Hakparn to discuss combatting human trafficking On September 8 in Bangkok, senior figures from Thailand's Law Enforcement, including the renowned Pol. Lt. Gen. Surachate "Big Joke" Hakparn, joined forces with U.S. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) to amplify collaborative actions against the trafficking of individuals and the online exploitation of the young. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305953-us-meets surachate-big-joke-hakparn to-discuss-combatting-human-trafficking/

On September 8 in Bangkok, senior figures from Thailand's Law Enforcement, including the renowned Pol. Lt. Gen. Surachate "Big Joke" Hakparn, joined forces with U.S. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) to amplify collaborative actions against the trafficking of individuals and the online exploitation of the young. Prominent members from Thailand's policing sector, especially the squad committed to the welfare of children, women, and families, along with their specialized anti-human trafficking brigade, held discussions with Mr. Matthew E. Wright, the Regional Attache of HSI Bangkok, and Mr. Jacob T. Carlyle, Assistant Attache of HSI. The meeting took place at the central police headquarters on September 7. The HSI praised the Thai government for its significant advancements in both combatting and preventing human trafficking and online child sexual exploitation, reported INN. Discussions revolved around shared strategies to address 'sextortion', a growing global concern. Additionally, both parties deliberated on mutual assistance in various operational areas to bolster the fight against these heinous crimes. -- ASEAN NOW 2023-09-09 - 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

Violent Attack in Nong Khai Leaves Teen Severely Injured A teenage boy in Nong Khai violently crashed his bike into another youngster, then assaulted the 15-year-old with a cutting instrument, resulting in severe injuries to his hand. The perpetrator then rapidly left the area. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305951-violent-attack-in-nong-khai-leaves-teen-severely-injured/

Swedish Mikael Stahre has accepted coaching job in Thailand by Miabell Mallikka Swedish foodball coach, Mikael Stahre, has signed a contract with Uthai Thani FC in Thailand, after turning down Norwegian Stabaek. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305950-swedish-mikael-stahre-has-accepted-coaching-job-in-thailand/

Columbian Gang Arrested for Luxury Village Heists On September 8th at 12:00 PM, at the Samut Prakan Police Station parking lot, leading officers along with Provincial Police Region 1 investigators announced the arrest of a Columbian gang suspected of committing thefts in affluent villages in Samut Prakan and neighboring provinces. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305949-columbian-gang-arrested-for-luxury-village-heists/

UPDATE: Banglamung District Chief Inspects Pattaya Floating Market After Fire By Tanakorn Panyadee Pattaya — Pattaya authorities are inspecting the Pattaya Floating Market where a large fire broke out last night, September 7th. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305948-banglamung-district-chief-inspects-pattaya-floating-market-after-fire/

Bali Hai Pier Speedboat Operators Banned from Approaching Customers, Standard Ticket Prices Set By Tanakorn Panyadee Pattaya — Pattaya City has come up with tougher regulations to address issues related to speedboat operators at Bali Hai Pier, including the introduction of standard ticket prices and the ban on “herding” guests. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305946-bali-hai-pier-speedboat-operators-banned-from-approaching-customers-standard-ticket-prices-set/

Suspect Arrested in Phuket After Allegedly Murdering 74-year-old Woman By Goongnang Suksawat PHOTO: Siam Rath Phuket – A suspect was arrested in Phuket after he and another suspect allegedly murdered a 74-year-old female elder in Nakhon Si Thammarat and stole her iPhone. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305945-suspect-arrested-in-phuket-after-allegedly-murdering-74-year-old-woman/