webfact

Visa focus from new government, Brit bashed in Pattaya : Tim Newton Today - Sep 4 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305483-visa-focus-from-new-government-brit-bashed-in-pattaya-tim-newton-today-sep-4/

Thailand News - The new government has targeted short-term tourist visas and mooting other changes as part of its immigration overhaul, tourism recovery across the region, Thai Air Asia X planning to grow substantially, a very drunk British 25 year old ends up in hospital after being bashed in Pattaya. A Kazakh 18 year old drowns along Phuket's west coast, Chinese and Thai defence forces kick off training exercises, three typhoons in the South China Sea and the new Thai cabinet heads to the pace tomorrow to be sworn in by HM The King. Tim Newton Today is a daily take on Thai and regional news and issues of interest to expats and foreign tourists.

Severe drought in Uthai Thani prompts wildlife migration, risks for locals by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Thana Boonlert, Bangkok Post Uthai Thani’s Huay Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary is grappling with a severe drought attributed to the El Nino phenomenon, prompting elephants and various other species to migrate into nearby regions in search of food, according to an official announcement. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305480-severe-drought-in-uthai-thani-prompts-wildlife-migration-risks-for-locals/

Thonglor murder: Teen son arrested for suspected hammer killing of French father by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A violent incident unfolded in a condominium in Thonglor, as police arrested a 19 year old half-Thai man suspected of killing his French father with a hammer. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305469-thonglor-murder-teen-son-arrested-for-suspected-hammer-killing-of-french-father/

Thailand eyes growth in pink economy by attracting international LGBTQ+ retirees by Mitch Connor Photo: Freepik Thailand’s potential to expand its ‘pink economy’ through the attraction of international LGBTQ+ retirees was the highlight of a recent conference held in Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305468-thailand-eyes-growth-in-pink-economy-by-attracting-international-lgbtq-retirees/

Thailand’s potential to expand its ‘pink economy’ through the attraction of international LGBTQ+ retirees was the highlight of a recent conference held in Bangkok. Dr Chaiwat Songsiriphan, who is the founder and medical director of the Safe Clinic, emphasised that Thailand’s high tolerance for gender diversity could make it an ideal retirement destination for the LGBTQ+ community. He further noted that the country is already recognised for its LGBTQ+ tourism, parties and nightlife entertainment. However, Dr Chaiwat highlighted that to truly become an LGBTQ+ retirement haven, there is a need for more healthcare specialists and clinics focusing on HIV and STDs. The availability of specialised healthcare units for the LGBTQ+ community is currently lacking. He asserted that the need for ease of access to antiretroviral drugs within the public healthcare system, such as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) to prevent HIV infection, is paramount. by Mitch Connor Photo: Freepik Full story: https://thethaiger.com/news/national/thailand-eyes-growth-in-pink-economy-by-attracting-international-lgbtq-retirees -- The Thaiger 2023-09-04 - 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

Monkeypox outbreak: Surge in cases among Thai teenagers by Samantha Rose Photo: sharp.com The rapid spread of the Monkeypox outbreak in Thailand has escalated alarmingly in a single month with 145 new cases, taking the total tally to 316. The youngest patient is a 16 year old male student with a history of multiple sexual partners. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305467-monkeypox-outbreak-surge-in-cases-among-thai-teenagers/

The rapid spread of the Monkeypox outbreak in Thailand has escalated alarmingly in a single month with 145 new cases, taking the total tally to 316. The youngest patient is a 16 year old male student with a history of multiple sexual partners. Dr Tharet Krasanairawiwong, Director of the Department of Disease Control, reported yesterday that the majority of the Monkeypox patients are men who have sexual intercourse with other men, accounting for 271 out of the total 316 cases, or 85.8%. Of these, 143 patients, or 45.3%, are infected with HIV. The majority of the patients are Thai nationals (277), while 36 are foreigners, and 3 have not disclosed their nationality. Predominantly, 198 patients reside in Bangkok, followed by 22 in Chon Buri, 17 in Nonthaburi, and 12 in Samut Prakan. The majority of patients are aged between 30 and 39 years old (152 patients), followed by those aged between 20 and 29 (85 patients) and teens aged between 15 and 24 (28 patients). by Samantha Rose Photo: sharp.com Full story: https://thethaiger.com/news/national/rapid-surge-in-thailands-monkeypox-outbreak-with-alarming-rise-among-teenagers -- The Thaiger 2023-09-04 - 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

Reduction in Military Conscription Quotas Expected in April 2024 BANGKOK, Sept 4 (TNA) – Defence Minister Sutin Kluangsang has declared the military’s readiness to align with the government’s policies and has specified an immediate reduction in military conscription quotas. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305466-reduction-in-military-conscription-quotas-expected-in-april-2024/

BANGKOK, Sept 4 (TNA) – Defence Minister Sutin Kluangsang has declared the military’s readiness to align with the government’s policies and has specified an immediate reduction in military conscription quotas. Mr. Sutin and Prime Minister and Finance Minister Mr. Srettha Thavisin on Sunday met the incoming military leaders. During the talks, they addressed the country’s current situation, inquired about issues, and exchanged the various needs and demands of each party. They wanted to push forward various policies, such as transitioning to a voluntary military service system and asked the military about their requirements for government support in various aspects. The military’s perspective aligned with that of the government, as they had been continually improving their organization and were willing to adhere to the government’s policies. Whether these changes would occur swiftly or gradually, they aimed to keep the government informed about any challenges that might arise. Full story: https://tna.mcot.net/english-news-1232788 -- TNA-MCOT 2023-09-04 - 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 - Monday 4 September 2023 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305465-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-monday-4-september-2023/

The new government says it will meet to discuss reducing power and oil prices, and would immediately reduce excise duty on diesel petrol for selected groups of users, it would also work towards a 20-baht flat fare for electric train services.. Academics speaking at the Thai journalists association recommended expanding welfare state policies, The government was advised to review its plan for a 10,000-baht digital cash giveaway for all Thais aged 16 and over, saying the policy risks causing a spike in inflation. China and Thailand began the "Blue Strike-2023" joint training exercises began yesterday between Thailand and China, at the Sattahip naval base. ‘Blue strike 2023’ involves some 2,500 trainees from both sides and covers sniping tactics, jungle survival, maritime search and rescue, and cross-deck helicopter landing, The body of a Kazakhstan national was found on a beach in phuket by a lifeguard, the man was identified as an 18 year old named Dimitri, It’s thought he was not familiar with swimming the sea and drowned as his 17 year old girlfriend looked on. Bangkok’s local authority the BMA has collected more tax revenue than expected, with 91.3 billion baht received up to the end of August. 79-billion-baht had been targeted for the whole of this year. Bangkok’s governor said the additional revenues will go towards development of public transport, the environment, public health, education and quality of life. In Womens volleyball, Thailand beat South Korea 25-20, 25-22, 25-23 last night at the Asian Women's Volleyball Championship 2023 in Nakhon Ratchasima. Around The Region: Taiwan: Typhoon Haikui made landfall in eastern Taiwan yesterday unleashing torrential downpours, whipping winds and plunging thousands of households into darkness as the first major storm to directly hit the island in four years. Nearly 4,000 people were evacuated from high-risk areas, hundreds of flights cancelled and businesses closed The weather: Chiang Mai and the north: thundershowers 31C Bangkok: Partly cloudy, thunder showers, 32C Pattaya, Cloudy, thunderstorms 32C Phuket and the south: Sunny Partly cloudy, thunderstorms 29C Hua Hin:Sunny, partly cloudy, showers this afternoon : 32C. 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 2023-09-04 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

Rescue Mission Turns Violent, Gunfire Erupts Picture: Thai Rath In a harrowing clash, two rescue teams, one from the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) and the other from a cooperative foundation, engaged in a fierce altercation while responding to an emergency near Rangsit-Nakhon Nayok Road. One side fired shots, injuring members from the opposing team. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305462-rescue-mission-turns-violent-gunfire-erupts/

Bank Officer Nabbed for Embezzling Nearly 30 Million Baht from Customers Picture: Daily News In a shocking incident, police have issued an arrest warrant for a prominent bank officer in Kalasin province, who allegedly embezzled almost 30 million baht from customers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305461-bank-officer-nabbed-for-embezzling-nearly-30-million-baht-from-customers/

US English teacher arrested for sexual relation with 16 y/o student BANGKOK - Law enforcement officials raided a popular language teacher's residence in the Phra Khanong district of Bangkok after discovering he had been engaging in a sexual relationship with a 16-year-old student. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305460-us-english-teacher-arrested-for-sexual-relation-with-16-yo-student/

Prachuap Khiri Khan sees over 6.5 million visitors; September events announced By Online Reporter Mr. Archawan Kongkanant,, the director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) for Prachuap Khiri Khan Prachuap Khiri Khan has witnessed growth in its tourism sector, according to data released by the Tourism Authority of Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305459-prachuap-khiri-khan-sees-over-65-million-visitors-september-events-announced/

Poll respondents favour farmer debt moratoria and ฿20 train fare in Bangkok A 3-year debt moratorium for farmers and a flat rate 20-baht electric train fare in Bangkok and its suburbs are the two most favoured policies of the Pheu Thai party among respondents to a recent opinion poll, conducted by the National Institute for Development Administration (NIDA). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305458-poll-respondents-favour-farmer-debt-moratoria-and-฿20-train-fare-in-bangkok/

A 3-year debt moratorium for farmers and a flat rate 20-baht electric train fare in Bangkok and its suburbs are the two most favoured policies of the Pheu Thai party among respondents to a recent opinion poll, conducted by the National Institute for Development Administration (NIDA). NIDA gauged the opinions, pertaining to the election policies of Pheu Thai party, of 1,310 people with various occupations, incomes and educational backgrounds between August 30th and September 1st. The poll shows that 90% of the respondents want the electric train fare to be pegged at 20-baht for the entire route; 87.25% want a debt moratorium for farmers for three years; 86.18% want the minimum earning for each household to be 20,000 baht per month; 83.36% want the 10,000-baht “digital wallet” scheme; 80.08% want a 25,000 baht minimum salary for BA graduates before the end of 2027; 78.09% want a 600-baht minimum wage; 70% want a new Constitution to be drafted by the people; 78.17% want each of Bangkok’s 50 districts to have a hospital and 51% want elections of provincial governors to be tried in certain provinces. Full story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/poll-respondents-favour-farmer-debt-moratoria-and-฿20-train-fare-in-bangkok/ -- Thai PBS 2023-09-04 - 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 and Defence Minister meet informally with Thai military top brass Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and Defence Minister Sutin Klungsang had an informal meeting over lunch today (Sunday) with the military’s new top brass for familiarisation and an exchange of views. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305457-thai-pm-and-defence-minister-meet-informally-with-thai-military-top-brass/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and Defence Minister Sutin Klungsang had an informal meeting over lunch today (Sunday) with the military’s new top brass for familiarisation and an exchange of views. The top brass were the newly appointed commanders of the three armed forces and the supreme commander, who will assume their posts on October 1st. They were Supreme Commander Gen Songwit Noonpakdee, Army Commander-in-Chief Gen Charoenchai Hinthao, Navy Commander-in-Chief Admiral Adung Pan-iam and Air Force Commander-in-Chief ACM Punpakdee Pattanakul. An informed government source said that, since both Srettha and Sutin are civilians with no military background, they want to receive input directly from the top brass, before the coalition parties’ policies on military affairs are incorporated in the government’s policy statement, to be delivered in parliament this week. Earlier, military leaders had expressed concerns over some of the policies announced by the Pheu Thai and Move Forward parties during their election campaigns, which included the scrapping of mandatory conscription, substantial defence budget cuts and the dissolution of the Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC). Full story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/thai-pm-and-defence-minister-meet-informally-with-thai-military-top-brass/ -- Thai PBS 2023-09-04 - 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 may grant visa exemption for Chinese tourists in October The Thai government is likely to introduce visa exemption for Chinese tourists in an effort to boost arrivals over yearend, as arrivals during the first seven months of this year have fallen short of target. The Ministry of Tourism and Sports estimates that between 5 and 7 million Chinese tourists would have visited Thailand from January to July, but only two million arrived, largely due to the economic slowdown in China, forcing many Chinese to be more careful in their spending. According to Thai travel agencies, news, including fake news in Chinese media, about their compatriots being preyed upon by Chinese gangs in Thailand, have raised concern among tourists about their safety. Also, many Chinese have chosen to travel within their country, which is far cheaper. Full story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/thailand-may-grant-visa-exemption-for-chinese-tourists-in-october/ -- Thai PBS 2023-09-04 - 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 Political Activist Holds Feces-Throwing Event By Tanakorn Panyadee National — A Thai political activist and staunch supporter of the government party Pheu Thai held an event on Saturday where people threw human feces on his body to uphold his political promise that the party he supported would never join forces with the military-backed parties. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305456-thai-political-activist-holds-feces-throwing-event/

National — A Thai political activist and staunch supporter of the government party Pheu Thai held an event on Saturday where people threw human feces on his body to uphold his political promise that the party he supported would never join forces with the military-backed parties. Duangrit Bunnag, 57, held the event at the Mirror Art Gallery in Bangkok yesterday. He had previously vowed to allow people to throw feces on him if Pheu Thai, the party that he supported, joined a coalition with the military-backed parties, namely the Ruam Thai Sang Chart and Palang Pacharath party. Eventually, the party did indeed join a coalition with the above parties that backed coup-maker Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha and Gen Prawit Wongsuwan after failing to do so with the election-winning Move Forward Party. By Tanakorn Panyadee Full story: https://thepattayanews.com/2023/09/03/thai-political-activist-holds-feces-throwing-event/ -- THE PATTAYA NEWS 2023-09-04 - 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 pledges better conditions for motorcycle taxi drivers by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Wichan Charoenkiatpakul, Bangkok Post The government has recently taken into account a series of grievances from motorcycle taxi drivers, tasking the Transport Ministry with the job of enhancing their working conditions. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305455-thai-government-pledges-better-conditions-for-motorcycle-taxi-drivers/

Thai research probes herbal solutions to PM2.5 dust-related chronic diseases by Neill Fronde Research into herbal remedies aims to help chronic disease caused by PM2,5 air pollution. (via The Guardian) In promising scientific research, experts are exploring the potential of three herbal plants in combatting chronic diseases connected to PM2.5 dust. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305454-thai-research-probes-herbal-solutions-to-pm25-dust-related-chronic-diseases/