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Scholars of Sustenance (SOS): Rescuing food and nourishing communities in Hua Hin By Online Reporter Scholars of Sustenance (SOS) is leading the charge against food waste and hunger, while raising awareness about the importance of sustainability and community engagement. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1303620-scholars-of-sustenance-sos-rescuing-food-and-nourishing-communities-in-hua-hin/

Trunk of sorrow: Thailand’s orphaned elephant Tula crosses the rainbow bridge (video) by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Mark Doss, Facebook. In heart-wrenching wildlife news from Thailand, Tula, a 10 month old orphaned elephant succumbed to illness despite diligent care from the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1303619-trunk-of-sorrow-thailand’s-orphaned-elephant-tula-crosses-the-rainbow-bridge-video/

Up to 30 million visitors expected this year: TAT by Tanakorn Sangiam BANGKOK (NNT) - Thailand is expected to welcome up to 30 million international visitors this year, as the tourism sector targets an annual revenue of 2.3 trillion baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1303618-up-to-30-million-visitors-expected-this-year-tat/

BANGKOK (NNT) - Thailand is expected to welcome up to 30 million international visitors this year, as the tourism sector targets an annual revenue of 2.3 trillion baht. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) estimates the total number of international tourists to range between 28 and 30 million people. TAT Governor Yuthasak Supasorn said the revenue target of 2.38 trillion baht is around 80% of the 3 trillion baht revenue recorded in 2019. Thailand has so far this year welcomed 15 million international visitors, which is already higher than last year’s number of 11 million people. The sector has received a positive push thanks to more visitor arrivals from China, which increased from the monthly average of 300,000 people between January and June, to 400,000 people in July. The TAT anticipates visitors from Europe and the Americas will increase again from October, after this low tourism season. In terms of domestic travel, the recently announced special holidays have driven up domestic tourism to 20-25 million trips per month. The TAT finds this figure on track to achieving its annual domestic target of 117-135 million trips. The TAT will continue to promote Thai tourism using soft power assets, in an attempt to ensure its tourist number targets are met. by Tanakorn Sangiam Source: https://thainews.prd.go.th/en/news/detail/TCATG230815095626821 -- © Copyright NNT 2023-08-15 - 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.

Thriving start-up culture flourishes in Thailand’s surf capital: Khao Lak by Bill Barnett As the rainy monsoon season blankets the Southern coast of Thailand’s Andaman Sea, the high-energy surf season springs to life in Khao Lak. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1303617-thriving-start-up-culture-flourishes-in-thailand’s-surf-capital-khao-lak/

More double-track railways to open this year by Tanakorn Sangiam BANGKOK (NNT) - More double-track sections in the national railway network are set to open this year. These new facilities are expected to greatly shorten travel times for commuters as well as reduce costs for logistics operators. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1303616-more-double-track-railways-to-open-this-year/

BANGKOK (NNT) - More double-track sections in the national railway network are set to open this year. These new facilities are expected to greatly shorten travel times for commuters as well as reduce costs for logistics operators. The caretaker government has announced its roadmap to open more sections of double-track railroads on the Northern, Northeastern, and Southern lines operated by the State Railway of Thailand. The announcement was made by Deputy Government Spokesperson Rachada Dhnadirek. The sections scheduled for opening this year are the 145-kilometer section on the Northern Line from Lopburi to Pak Nam Pho, the Bandai Ma - Khlong Khanan Chit section on the Map Kabao - Thanon Chira Junction route on the Northeastern Line, and the Bang Saphan Noi - Chumphon section on the Nakhon Pathom - Chumphon route of the Southern Line. Two new construction projects namely Den Chan - Chaing Rai - Chiang Khong railroad on the Northern Line, and Ban Phai - Mukdahan - Nakhon Phanom are in progress. The completion of the planned phase of the double-track railroad conversion, spanning 700 kilometers of services, would increase railroad capacity, allow operators to run more frequent services, and cut down on travel time by at least one hour. According to the deputy spokesperson, the caretaker government has already planned the second phase of the double-track railway project, which will create a railway network with a combined length of more than 3,000 kilometers, serving some 50 provinces by 2029. This project would enable freight trains to increase their operational speed from 29 to 60 kilometers per hour, and enable passenger trains to reach the operational speed of 100-120 kilometers per hour. The proposed project will however need to be picked up by the new government. by Tanakorn Sangiam Source: https://thainews.prd.go.th/en/news/detail/TCATG230815092959812 -- © Copyright NNT 2023-08-15 - 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.

Russian released after balcony death of gf, 5 metre King Cobra : Tim Newton Today - August 15 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1303615-russian-released-after-balcony-death-of-gf-5-metre-king-cobra-tim-newton-today-august-15/

The case of a Russian woman's death, after being dangled off a balcony at a Pattaya condo, becomes complicated after her Russian boyfriend is released from custody. Drought in Laos causes concerns for power supplies in Thailand, mega floating solar power farms in Thailand, equally mega 5 metre King Cobra found in Krabi, some western theatre coming to Bangkok and the big wetting in Thailand's south. Dengue Fever on the rise this year and Thailand's first death from Monkeypox, which is also on the rise at this time. Tim Newton Today is a daily take on Thai and regional news and issues of interest to expats and foreign tourists.

Thailand’s railway safety upgrade: 693 unauthorised crossings to be rerouted by Mitch Connor Govenor of the State Railway of Thailand Nirut Maneepan, fourth from left, talks to police at a crash site in Muang, Chachoengsao province, Thailand, Friday, Aug. 4, 2023. Picture courtesy of AP. In the aftermath of a tragic accident last week in Chachoengsao, where a freight train collided with a pickup truck at an unrecognised railway crossing, taking eight lives and injuring three, the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) resolved to close 693 unauthorised railway crossings across Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1303614-thailand’s-railway-safety-upgrade-693-unauthorised-crossings-to-be-rerouted/

In the aftermath of a tragic accident last week in Chachoengsao, where a freight train collided with a pickup truck at an unrecognised railway crossing, taking eight lives and injuring three, the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) resolved to close 693 unauthorised railway crossings across Thailand. The accident took place on an unauthorised crossing, lacking official signalling mechanisms. Of the 437 incidents involving trains that transpired between 2005 and 2021, SRT data indicates that 44% occurred at illegal crossings. Tayakorn Chandrangsu, SRT Director of Safety and Maintenance, yesterday revealed that Thailand’s 4,000-kilometre railway network boasts 2,697 level crossings. Some 2,004 of these have the official stamp of approval while 693 do not. The unauthorised crossings due for closure are distributed unevenly across the country, with 52 in the north, 54 in the northeast, 68 in the east, and 519 in the south. Chandrangsu stated the persistence of locals in utilising these unauthorised railway crossings as they usually provide the most direct and convenient route to their chosen destination. by Mitch Connor TOP: Govenor of the State Railway of Thailand Nirut Maneepan, fourth from left, talks to police at a crash site in Muang, Chachoengsao province, Thailand, Friday, Aug. 4, 2023. Picture courtesy of AP. Full story: https://thethaiger.com/news/national/state-railway-to-close-693-unofficial-crossings-after-deadly-thai-accident -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-08-15 - 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.

Why you should consider getting a Thailand Elite Visa by Cita Catellya PHOTO: Freepik The Thailand Elite Visa is possibly one of the most underrated visas in Thailand because people tend to lose interest once they hear about the application fee. However, the special visa program actually offers lots of convenience and benefits. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1303613-why-you-should-consider-getting-a-thailand-elite-visa/

The Thailand Elite Visa is possibly one of the most underrated visas in Thailand because people tend to lose interest once they hear about the application fee. However, the special visa program actually offers lots of convenience and benefits. Whether you are an investor, a retiree, or a digital nomad, the Thailand Elite Visa is available for anyone who lives or regularly comes to Thailand but doesn’t want to deal with the complex immigration bureaucracy. Besides, there are many other things you can enjoy by being an Elite Visa member. Let’s take a closer look at the main benefits. Continuous stay without visa runs and paperwork PHOTO: Freepik Thailand is notoriously strict about visas, especially for those who want to stay in the country long-term. While you can get a 30-day tourist visa without much difficulty, obtaining a long stay visa or a visa to come in and out of the country 2-3 times a year can be a pain in the neck. From 90-day reporting to the ever-changing visa regulation, dealing with immigration can be confusing. And not to mention the paperwork. Every time you apply, renew, or extend your visa, you must prepare at least five different sets of documents. With Thailand Elite Visa, you don’t need to worry anymore about these things. You can stay in the country long-term or enter multiple times without having to abuse tourist visas or do border runs every 90 days. Moreover, you’ll be able to bypass long immigration lines and get visa assistance. Say goodbye to paperwork. All you need is a copy of your passport. An Elite Visa agent will handle everything for you, and you’ll get your visa within 30 minutes. There are different types of Thailand Elite Visa. The starting point, the Elite Easy Access, allows you to stay in Thailand for 5 years. For a longer term, the Elite Privilege Access has a 10-year validity. However, many foreigners who plan to stay in the country long-term usually opt for the Elite Superiority Extension or the Elite Ultimate Privilege. Both give you a 20-year stay, but with different benefits. Long-term stay for anyone PHOTO: Digital Nomad via Unsplash If you’re only 40 years old and want to retire in Thailand, you can’t apply for a retirement visa since you must be 50 years of age or older to do so. However, you can spend your early retirement in Thailand by obtaining a Thailand Elite Visa since you don’t need to reach a certain age. The Thailand Elite Visa is also available for anyone who wants to live in the country long-term or needs to visit more than twice a year but can’t find any suitable visa options. For example, digital nomads who aren’t employed by any particular company to get a business visa and their job doesn’t fall into one of the four SMART visa categories. You don’t need to have a job in Thailand, attend a language course, marry a Thai, have health insurance, have 800,000 Baht in your bank, or within a certain age to obtain a Thailand Elite Visa. by Cita Catellya TOP PHOTO: Freepik Full story: https://thethaiger.com/guides/visa-information/why-you-should-consider-getting-a-thailand-elite-visa -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-08-15 - 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.

Traffic violations rampant in Phetchabun exposed in viral video by Neill Fronde Photo courtesy of Sanook The terrible driving habits of motorists in Phetchabun were thrust into the public spotlight following a Facebook video going viral. In a startling traffic violations revelation, the video displayed rampant disregard for traffic rules in the city. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1303612-traffic-violations-rampant-in-phetchabun-exposed-in-viral-video/

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Tuesday 15 August 2023 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1303596-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-tuesday-15-august-2023/

The PHEU THAI party says its CANDIDATE for prime minister Srettha Thavi-sin will not be replaced by Paetong-tarn Shinawat as suggested by the Bhum-jai-thai party. Pheu Thai and its coalition partners look ready to vote for Srettha for prime minister at the next session expected this Friday or next Tuesday. If it gets into government The Pheu Thai-led coalition, says it will propose holding a public referendum on whether a new Constitution should be written during its first Cabinet meeting. Democracy network ‘iLaw’’s website asked: what will be the question in a referendum? Ilaw says it would like to draft the question but requires 50 thousand signatures in order to propose the request. Demonstrators continued to protest at Ratchaprasong last night and called on the Pheu Thai Party to respect the will of the people. The outgoing government has been critisised for issuing a new regulation imposing income limits on monthly allowances for the elderly. Critics say the matter should be left to the incoming government to decide. A car mechanic has been arrested while possession of over 1 million methamphetamine pills, The 42 year old who runs a garage for racing cars in Chaingmai was picked up at a petrol station in Sing Buri province. Following a 2 week investigation into several drug cases, officers were to seize his assets worth around 10 million baht. Thailand has recorded its first fatal case of M Pox or monkeypox, The fatality was a Thai man who was also HIV-positive and had syphilis. A doctor at Chulalongkorn University said people infected with Covid-19 are at greater risk of developing diabetes. A recent study sampled 15 million people in the U.K, the doctor added Those infected with Covid-19 have a 24% greater chance of developing Type-2 diabetes. Holiday swimmers at Bang Saeng beach in Chonburi were put off when the sea looked dark green, the cause, huge quantities of plankton formed naturally following heavy rain in the area. Around the Region: A Malaysia Airlines flight headed to Kuala Lumpur was forced to turn back to Sydney Airport yesterday due to a disruptive passenger on board. Video taken by a passenger appeared to show a man, wearing a backpack, threatening passengers and staff. The man was later arrested by police in Sydney. Indonesia's capital will force drivers to undergo emission tests, Jakarta has been consistently ranked among the 10 most polluted cities globally. President Joko Widodo blamed the problem on "excessive road traffic, a long dry season, and the manufacturing industry uses coal". The weather: Chiang Mai and the north:bright, cloudy with thundershowers 32C Bangkok: Partly Cloudy, thunder showers this afternoon 35C Pattaya, Partly cloudy, thundershowers 31C Phuket and the south: Cloudy with thundershowers, 29C ‘Hua Hin’: Sunny, partly cloudy, expect rain later this afternoon 34C. 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 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 -- © Copyright SURF 102.5 FM 2023-08-15 - 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.

Phetchabun Street Sweeper Returns Gold Worth 6 Baht to Owner Applause resounds as locals, particularly social media users, commend "Aunt Maem," the street sweeper with a heart of gold, for returning a collection of gold jewelry worth 6 Baht along with a gold pendant. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1303593-phetchabun-street-sweeper-returns-gold-worth-6-baht-to-owner/

Rolls-Royce in the Spotlight: Repair Costs Unveiled after Rear-End Collision In a recent incident a Rolls-Royce was involved in a rear-end collision, sparking discussions about repair expenses and insurance coverage. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1303591-rolls-royce-in-the-spotlight-repair-costs-unveiled-after-rear-end-collision/

In a recent incident a Rolls-Royce was involved in a rear-end collision, sparking discussions about repair expenses and insurance coverage. The high-end automobile, known for its opulence and craftsmanship, suffered damage to its rear section during the collision. Following the mishap, speculation arose regarding the extent of the repairs needed and the financial implications for the owner, reported Daily News. Now, the figures are in. Repair estimates for the Rolls-Royce have been revealed, shedding light on the potential costs associated with restoring the vehicle to its pristine condition. Preliminary assessments indicate that the repair costs could reach several million baht. The breakdown of costs includes replacement parts such as the rear taillight, rear bumper, rear trunk lid with sensors, rear exhaust pipe, and suspension components. These parts alone are expected to contribute significantly to the overall repair bill. Pcture: Daily News As experts and enthusiasts closely follow this unfolding situation, it becomes evident that maintaining and repairing luxury vehicles involves not only skilled craftsmanship but also a substantial financial commitment. This incident serves as a reminder of the meticulous care required for such iconic and high-value automobiles like the Rolls-Royce. Recent reports state that the Facebook page of the "Car Tuning Association" has disclosed the repair costs for these renowned cars. The post reads: Rear taillight at 300,000 baht In case of cracks or damage on both sides, it's 600,000 baht Rear bumper at 250,000 baht Rear trunk lid with sensor at 300,000 baht Rear exhaust pipe at 80,000 baht Suspension arms and chassis parts at 350,000 baht "Not including various additional costs and painting expenses, also if the rear shock is damaged and unrepairable due to its special manufacturer-specific system, it's 600,000 baht." The total cost averages around 2,180,000 baht (minimum). Data and images courtesy of @CarTuningAssociation. -- © Copyright ASEAN NOW 2023-08-15 - 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 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

Furious "Red" Samut Sakhon Unleashes Rage by Burning Thaksin Effigy Picture: Siam Rath On August 14, 2566, news reports highlighted the gathering of the Red Shirt movement, ardent advocates of democracy and opponents of dictatorship in Samut Sakhon Province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1303590-furious-red-samut-sakhon-unleashes-rage-by-burning-thaksin-effigy/

Picture: Siam Rath On August 14, 2566, news reports highlighted the gathering of the Red Shirt movement, ardent advocates of democracy and opponents of dictatorship in Samut Sakhon Province. Formerly supportive of the Pheu Thai Party, they convened near the Kra Thum Ban Market area. Expressing discontentment with the party's disconnect from the public and its alliance with the two uncles' party, they formed a coalition. Picture: Siam Rath In a striking act, they set ablaze effigies depicting Thaksin Shinawatra and Yingluck Shinawatra, along with various items bearing Thaksin's symbols. Amidst intense emotions, the event featured speeches and joint statements, reflecting the heightened turmoil. Picture: Siam Rath -- © Copyright ASEAN NOW 2023-08-15 - 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 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

Tourists Shocked! Floating Corpse Found Adrift Near Rayong Beach Cliff Picture: Siam Rath At approximately 4:30 PM on August 14, 2023, Police Lieutenant Thongdao Kote, in charge of the Muang Rayong Police Station, received a report from tourists about a corpse floating near the cliff at Laem Charoen Beach, Pak Nam Sub-district, Mueang District, Rayong Province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1303588-tourists-shocked-floating-corpse-found-adrift-near-rayong-beach-cliff/

Man Arrested in Phuket for Alleged Involvement in Land Application Scam By Goongnang Suksawat Phuket – A man was arrested in Phuket after he allegedly was involved in a land loan application scam in which a victim lost about a million baht, or 30,000 USD. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1303587-man-arrested-in-phuket-for-alleged-involvement-in-land-application-scam/

Minor Found at Unlicensed Patong Massage Shop By Goongnang Suksawat Patong – A Thai woman was arrested after she allegedly opened an unlicensed massage shop without permission and allowed a minor to work. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1303586-minor-found-at-unlicensed-patong-massage-shop/

Srettha Not Being Replaced As PM Candidate: Prasert By Thai Newsroom Reporters Pheu Thai candidate for prime minister Srettha Thavisin. Photo: Thai Rath PHEU THAI CANDIDATE FOR prime minister Srettha Thavisin will not be replaced with anyone else as pressed by the Bhumjaithai, according to Pheu Thai secretary-general Prasert Chanthararuangthong. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1303585-srettha-not-being-replaced-as-pm-candidate-prasert/