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Funai Factory Closure Leaves 831 Jobless, Workers Await Compensation Picture courtesy: Kapook Over 800 employees have been left in limbo following the sudden shutdown of Funai (Thailand) Co's factory in Nakhon Ratchasima. This development follows a bankruptcy plan approval for its Japanese parent company, Funai Electric, on October 24th. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343474-funai-factory-closure-leaves-831-jobless-workers-await-compensation/

Picture courtesy: Kapook Over 800 employees have been left in limbo following the sudden shutdown of Funai (Thailand) Co's factory in Nakhon Ratchasima. This development follows a bankruptcy plan approval for its Japanese parent company, Funai Electric, on October 24th. The Thai subsidiary declared its inability to import essential production materials, leading to its closure on November 14th, as mentioned in a statement from their facility in Pak Chong district dated November 8th. In response to this, local authorities from the Pak Chong district office, the Nakhon Ratchasima provincial labour office, and the provincial security office have set up registration booths to assist laid-off workers in filing for benefits. On Wednesday, a large number of former employees arrived at the factory seeking assistance, yet none had received compensation at that time. Apichart Suethuen, a senior production manager among the 831 affected workers, noted Wednesday as their last working day. He mentioned that all employees would seek unemployment benefits, but the company admitted it couldn't afford immediate payouts. One worker, Pucharas, shared her experience, having worked at Funai for 19 years. She received a notice of 190,000 baht in compensation, yet details on the payment timeline remained unclear. Initially, the company had promised compensation within 90 days. Pucharas and others demanded adherence to this timeline, stressing their financial obligations and difficulties in finding new jobs, especially for older workers. The unresolved situation, including failure to receive legal compensations and rumours of insufficient company funds, has left the 831 workers anxious and frustrated. Many have threatened to approach the provincial labour office if the promised payments are not made within the stipulated period. The abrupt factory closure starkly underscores the challenges workers face amidst corporate financial collapses, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-11-13

Thaksin's Hospital Stay Under Scrutiny as Agency Delays Inquiry File photo courtesy: Facebook Thairath TV Thaksin Shinawatra's controversial six-month hospital stay has caught the attention of Thailand's National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), but a formal inquiry isn't likely until February, according to Jakkrit Tanlert, an assistant NACC secretary-general. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343470-thaksins-hospital-stay-under-scrutiny-as-agency-delays-inquiry/

File photo courtesy: Facebook Thairath TV Thaksin Shinawatra's controversial six-month hospital stay has caught the attention of Thailand's National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), but a formal inquiry isn't likely until February, according to Jakkrit Tanlert, an assistant NACC secretary-general. The hospital arrangement is under suspicion as a possible ruse to avoid prison time, raising questions of privilege and propriety. Despite setting up an ad hoc committee to gather evidence, the NACC has hit a roadblock. Information from Police Hospital, where Thaksin stayed supposedly as a critically ill patient, is scant. Beyond receiving two million baht in hospital bills, the committee is waiting for detailed disclosures on Thaksin’s health status and medical treatments. This delay occurs against the backdrop of public demand for transparency. The Network of Students and People for Thailand Reform questioned the apparent leniency afforded to Thaksin, especially following an eight-year sentence for abuse of power, later reduced to one year by royal pardon. His stay at Police Hospital, thought to be orchestrated to evade prison cells, remains clouded in secrecy under the guise of privacy concerns. Meanwhile, Thaksin, the influential figure within the Pheu Thai Party, has returned from 17 years abroad and recently visited Udorn Thani. There, he rallied support for Pheu Thai candidate Saravut Petpanomporn in the upcoming provincial race against rival Khanisorn Khurirang, scheduled for 24th November. Udorn Thani, a stronghold of the Red Shirt movement and pro-Pheu Thai sympathisers, largely backed Thaksin’s candidates in the previous general elections. This political mobilisation highlights Thaksin's enduring influence in Thai politics, as the nation awaits the graft agency's decision. Until then, the matter of his hospitalisation and justice remains unresolved, fuelling debate over fairness and corruption within the system, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-11-13

Pattaya Wind Turbine Project Abandoned; New Landmark Proposed Picture courtesy: Opt News A 95 million baht renewable energy project in Pattaya has been abandoned after years of neglect, leaving its wind turbines in a state of disrepair. Initially intended to alleviate energy shortages and boost tourism, this once-ambitious project has now become a symbol of squandered potential and oversight. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343462-pattaya-wind-turbine-project-abandoned-new-landmark-proposed/

Picture courtesy: Opt News A 95 million baht renewable energy project in Pattaya has been abandoned after years of neglect, leaving its wind turbines in a state of disrepair. Initially intended to alleviate energy shortages and boost tourism, this once-ambitious project has now become a symbol of squandered potential and oversight. Back in 2006, Pattaya Municipality, in partnership with Rajamangala University of Technology Thanyaburi, initiated the installation of wind turbines and solar panels on Koh Larn, just off Pattaya's coast. The objective was to generate 200 kilowatts of electricity to power wastewater systems and streetlights on the island. Plans also included crafting a control centre and a ray fish-shaped tourism exhibition building. Picture courtesy: Opt News However, this promising endeavour soon hit hurdles. With 45 wind turbines poised to produce clean energy, the system demanded extensive maintenance. Sadly, the project went neglected, resulting in non-functional turbines. By 2015, the facility was completely deserted, infrastructure decaying where it stood. Recognising the venture's failure, Pattaya authorities are now pivoting towards repurposing the site as a tourist destination. Offering stunning views of the sea and Koh Larn, the area remains a popular choice for tourists seeking Instagram-worthy backdrops. The city aims to remodel the site, preserving the turbines as an evocative visual feature without linking them to energy production. Deputy Mayor Manot Nongyai acknowledged maintenance issues led to the project's demise. He outlined plans to transform the site into a tourist "check-in" point, enhancing its natural allure while renovating the turbines aesthetically. The design proposal for the new landmark is nearly ready, slated for council presentation soon. If approved, the redevelopment will shift the narrative from failed energy project to significant tourist attraction, revitalising Pattaya and Koh Larn's appeal, reported Pattaya Mail. -- 2024-11-13

British man arrested for selling drugs to foreign tourists in Chiang Mai by Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 3 Chiang Mai Immigration officers observed the Englishman, identified only as Daniel, displaying suspicious behaviour. Daniel was a partner in a cannabis shop on Chang Moi Road in the province. The main owner of the shop was a Thai national who legally registered the store. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343422-british-man-arrested-for-selling-drugs-to-foreign-tourists-in-chiang-mai/

Chiang Mai Immigration officers observed the Englishman, identified only as Daniel, displaying suspicious behaviour. Daniel was a partner in a cannabis shop on Chang Moi Road in the province. The main owner of the shop was a Thai national who legally registered the store. In addition to advising customers about cannabis, Daniel was found to be promoting his drugs to them. He had secretly sold drugs for more than six months before his arrest yesterday, November 12. Officers searched Daniel’s backpack and accommodation, confiscating various types of drugs, including 21.61 grammes of crystal meth, 10 ecstasy pills, 6.56 grammes of ketamine, and 10.10 grammes of cocaine. The Superintendent of the provincial immigration office, Surachai Iamphueng, reported to Channel 7 that officers also suspect Daniel of smuggling cannabis from Thailand to foreign countries. Further investigation will be conducted to verify this suspicion. There is no report on whether Daniel’s Thai business partner was involved in the criminal activity. Police have not planned to summon the Thai national for questioning, according to Channel 7’s report. Daniel is charged under Section 66 of the Narcotics Act for possessing less than 100 grammes of drugs for sale. The penalty includes imprisonment from five years to life and a fine of 50,000 to 500,000 baht. He will be deported from the country and banned for 10 years after receiving his punishment. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 3 Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-13

Thais in Los Angeles Protest Against PM Paetongtarn’s Visit Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV Thais in Los Angeles expressed discontent during Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's visit. Onlookers were taken aback when the protest unfolded, marking an eventful moment during her trip abroad. Shared widely online, the protest captured attention far beyond LA. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343410-thais-in-los-angeles-protest-against-pm-paetongtarn’s-visit/

Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV Thais in Los Angeles expressed discontent during Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's visit. Onlookers were taken aback when the protest unfolded, marking an eventful moment during her trip abroad. Shared widely online, the protest captured attention far beyond LA. Paetongtarn's visit to the United States began as a diplomatic endeavour. Arriving in Los Angeles on 11th November, she aimed to build connections, boost economic ties, and engage with the Thai expatriate community. Her schedule included significant meetings, but it was the protest that drew particular focus. Nonetheless, Paetongtarn posted optimistically on Instagram during her visit. She shared her vision for Thailand, where fresh produce and modern transport systems would become readily available, reflecting her ambition for Thailand to become a regional logistics hub. Despite the protest, Paetongtarn continued her official duties undeterred. She met ambassadors and consuls-general to solidify Thailand's diplomatic presence. She also connected with the US's Thai community at a local temple, where she acknowledged and accepted a donation of $30,000 from community members to assist flood victims back home. Further, Paetongtarn seized the opportunity to meet US business leaders and representatives from the Motion Picture Association. These discussions aimed to attract investments and promote Thailand's film industry projected to bring in over 4 billion baht in 2024, reflecting a robust commitment to her country's "soft power" initiatives. As Paetongtarn departed for Lima, Peru, to attend the Apec Economic Leaders’ Meeting, the protest remained a notable aspect of her international engagement. Her visit, though marked by demonstration, underscored the complexities of leading a nation on the global stage, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-11-13

Thai Lawyer Challenges Central Bank Board Chairman Appointment Picture courtesy: Naew Na In a recent twist impacting Thailand's central banking landscape, Mr Chow Meekhuad, a Bangkok-based lawyer, has raised concerns over the eligibility of Kittiratt Na Ranong as the new chairman of the Bank of Thailand's board. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343409-thai-lawyer-challenges-central-bank-board-chairman-appointment/

Picture courtesy: Naew Na In a recent twist impacting Thailand's central banking landscape, Mr Chow Meekhuad, a Bangkok-based lawyer, has raised concerns over the eligibility of Kittiratt Na Ranong as the new chairman of the Bank of Thailand's board. Chow's assertions, aired through a Facebook post, challenge Kittiratt's qualifications, pointing out his past role as an adviser to former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, suggesting this compromises his candidacy. Chow's argument revolves around the Bank of Thailand Act, B.E. 2551, which necessitates that individuals holding political roles wait at least a year before being considered for non-political positions, such as that of the central bank chairman. Despite Kittiratt's adviser position technically not being a political office, Chow argues that responsibilities as outlined in the Prime Minister’s Office Order No. 214/2566, effectively equate to political service. Kittiratt ceased his advisory role on 14th August 2024, coinciding with the dismissal of Prime Minister Srettha by the Constitutional Court for unrelated reasons. This timeline falls short of the one-year separation required by law before assuming non-political roles, according to Chow’s interpretation. The selection of Kittiratt was conducted by a seven-member committee, a process now under scrutiny due to Chow's allegations of legal non-compliance. He is urging for a lawsuit against the committee, asserting their deliberate choice of an unqualified candidate endangers the apolitical integrity mandated by governing statutes. This legal contention is prompting discussions on the balance of political and institutional influence in Thailand's economic oversight and raises broader questions about procedural adherence and political neutrality within the country's financial institutions. The outcome may significantly impact future appointments and procedural frameworks within Thailand's monetary circles, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-11-13

Bangkok to beat the gridlock with new congestion charge Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit revealed that Bangkok could soon join cities like London and Singapore with a congestion charge aimed at unclogging the city’s crowded streets and reducing pollution. Suriya announced a six-month timeline for the Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning (OTP) to finalise a study identifying the best model for implementing the charge. “We’re looking at ways to ease Bangkok’s notorious traffic while generating funds to enhance our transit infrastructure.” Suriya explained that fees collected through the congestion charge would bolster an infrastructure fund, enabling the government to potentially buy back electric train projects and introduce a flat 20-baht fare across the capital. According to Suriya, this approach aims to ease commuting costs, reduce traffic jams, and cut down on air pollution, especially in the city centre. Addressing concerns, Suriya noted that over 60% of Bangkok’s public supports the congestion charge, although some residents in affected areas remain wary. To address this, he assured that city centre residents will be exempt from paying the charge. “The final details will be known once the OTP completes its study.” Transport Ministry spokesperson Kritchanon Aiyapunya revealed that Bangkok’s congestion charge model draws from success stories in London, Singapore, Stockholm, and Milan, where policies clearly define charge zones and times. London, for instance, saw a 16% drop in traffic congestion and an 18% increase in public transport use after implementing the charge, he noted. London’s AI-driven camera system records vehicle plate numbers in designated zones, with fees payable through apps or online banking. Highlighting growing acceptance, Kritchanon said, “In Stockholm, public support rose from 21% to 67% after implementation, and in London, support jumped from 39% to 54%.” The OTP, now consulting with the British government, hopes this initiative could usher in a new era for Bangkok’s traffic and transit systems, reported The Nation. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-13

File photo courtesy: Wikimedia The Thai Transport Ministry plans to implement the "London Model" to manage traffic congestion in Bangkok by introducing congestion fees in inner city areas. This move aims to reduce heavy traffic and fund public transport infrastructure. Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit, also the deputy prime minister, announced on Tuesday that the Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning (OTP) has been tasked with studying successful congestion fee systems from around the world. The study will focus on methods from England, Singapore, Stockholm, and Italy, examining fee rates and collection methods. The ministry anticipates completing the study by 2025. Minister Suriya highlighted that the current law does not allow the government to collect these fees, a responsibility of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA). Therefore, new legislation may be required to implement this initiative. An initial ministry-run survey on social media indicated that 60% supported the congestion fee concept, though support waned due to a lack of detailed information. The ministry recognizes the need to clarify details, such as the specific areas affected and the exemptions for residents within these zones. While those living in the designated congestion areas will be exempt from fees, funds raised will be directed into an infrastructure fund managed by the Ministry of Finance. Some proceeds will support the government’s goal of reducing electric train fares to 20 baht across all routes. The London Model, bolstered by support from the UK Partnering for Accelerated Climate Transitions (UK PACT) project, utilises Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology to manage toll collection, reported Bangkok Post. London’s scheme covers a 21 square km area, charging £15 per day and operates on weekdays and weekends, excluding public holidays. This system has successfully decreased congestion by 16%, noted ministry spokesman Kritchanon Aiyapanya. -- 2024-11-13

Thai Hotels Alarmed by Foreign Business Practices File photo courtesy: Wikimedia The Thai hospitality industry is raising alarms about the infiltration of foreign businesses leveraging local nominees, a practice perceived as damaging to Thailand’s esteemed tourism image. The Thai Hotels Association (THA) has sounded the alarm as concerns mount that these activities could trigger detrimental price wars, particularly amongst lower-tier hotels. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343403-thai-hotels-alarmed-by-foreign-business-practices/

File photo courtesy: Wikimedia The Thai hospitality industry is raising alarms about the infiltration of foreign businesses leveraging local nominees, a practice perceived as damaging to Thailand’s esteemed tourism image. The Thai Hotels Association (THA) has sounded the alarm as concerns mount that these activities could trigger detrimental price wars, particularly amongst lower-tier hotels. Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun, president of the THA, articulated that approximately 50% of Thai hotels are uneasy about these illegal enterprises, notably Chinese-run establishments, as revealed by the association's business sentiment index for October. Higher-end hotels, though targeting distinct markets, foresee potential harm to Thailand's tourism image due to these activities, which may, in turn, depress market prices. Chaiyapatranun has urged government agencies to intensify efforts against these unlawful operations, highlighting their potential to undermine the integrity of the entire tourism sector. Hotels rated three stars or lower feel the pinch more acutely as these unauthorised competitors directly threaten them by impacting pricing and reputation. As November approaches, coinciding with peak tourist influx, occupancy rates appear buoyant yet uneven. October ended with a nationwide hotel occupancy of 57.6%, a noticeable increase from last year’s 54%. However, higher-rated hotels reported a more robust performance at 60.2% occupancy, compared to 52.7% in the lower bracket. Amidst rising visitor interest, top-tier establishments confront staff shortages, impacting service quality despite being able to host more guests. Hoteliers are calling for government training initiatives to attract crucial roles like cleaners and waiting staff, addressing labour deficits. Furthermore, the industry appeals for stable foreign exchange rates to sustain operational stability. Prompt financial aid for those affected by recent floods is also essential to ensure swift recovery during the high season. The collective efforts aim to safeguard Thailand’s tourism sector, preserving its reputable allure, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-11-13

Israelis in Thailand on Alert After Security Warning File photo Full Moon Party - Wikimedia Commons Israeli authorities have cautioned their citizens in Thailand to be extra careful due to reports of a potential threat targeting them. This warning comes ahead of the famous Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan this Friday. As reported by the Times of Israel, the alert stems from a possible terror attack during the event. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343402-israelis-in-thailand-on-alert-after-security-warning/

File photo Full Moon Party - Wikimedia Commons Israeli authorities have cautioned their citizens in Thailand to be extra careful due to reports of a potential threat targeting them. This warning comes ahead of the famous Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan this Friday. As reported by the Times of Israel, the alert stems from a possible terror attack during the event. The Mossad and the National Security Council in Israel issued this advice after Thai police leaked internal documents suggesting that there might be a plot against Israelis in Thailand. Koh Phangan's Full Moon Party is a significant attraction for young Israeli travellers, making this threat particularly concerning. Ynet, an Israeli news outlet, highlighted that Thai police have stepped up security measures in response to these threats, which are reportedly based on concrete intelligence. In response to these developments, the Mossad and National Security Council stated, "In recent months, Israeli security services, in cooperation with Thai security, have worked to prevent several incidents." The warning comes in the wake of heightened tensions following the outbreak of conflict in Gaza on 7th October, which has seen Iran and its proxies reportedly increasing efforts to attack Israeli and Jewish targets globally. While the Israeli National Security Council has not altered its official threat level for Thailand, it urges Israelis to exercise caution. Recommended measures include avoiding visible expressions of Israeli or Jewish identity, steering clear of large events associated with Israelis, not sharing travel plans on social media, and promptly reporting any suspicious activity. Attendees of the Full Moon Party are encouraged to stay engaged with local security, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-11-13

Aggressive Foreign Vendors in Pattaya Threaten City Image Ahead of Major Festivals By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya — Foreign vendors in Pattaya, some carrying young children, are aggressively trying to sell items like flowers and candy to tourists, sparking concerns about the city’s image ahead of the upcoming Loy Krathong and International Fireworks Festival. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343392-aggressive-foreign-vendors-in-pattaya-threaten-city-image-ahead-of-major-festivals/

Pattaya — Foreign vendors in Pattaya, some carrying young children, are aggressively trying to sell items like flowers and candy to tourists, sparking concerns about the city’s image ahead of the upcoming Loy Krathong and International Fireworks Festival. At around 4:00 AM on November 12th, The Pattaya News reporters observed groups of foreign individuals, believed to be of Vietnamese origin, along Walking Street in South Pattaya and Soi Phettrakhoon. These individuals were seen carrying young children, from newborns to about seven-year-old children, and approaching tourists to sell goods. Some even became frustrated or verbally insulted tourists if they refused to buy. Several individuals were engaging in these behaviors, and it was believed that they were using children to evoke sympathy from tourists, leading some to buy their goods or, in some cases, give money out of pity without taking anything in return. When the group noticed they were being recorded, some responded angrily to the reporters and quickly moved to other areas, showing no fear of the local law. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS -- 2024-11-13

Thai Police Rescue Five Chinese Tourists from Human Trafficking Plot Picture courtesy: Thai Rath On 12 November, Police Lieutenant General Prachuap Wongsuk, Acting Deputy Police Chief of Thailand, successfully intervened to prevent a human trafficking incident involving five Chinese tourists who intended to travel to Pattaya. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343390-thai-police-rescue-five-chinese-tourists-from-human-trafficking-plot/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath On 12 November, Police Lieutenant General Prachuap Wongsuk, Acting Deputy Police Chief of Thailand, successfully intervened to prevent a human trafficking incident involving five Chinese tourists who intended to travel to Pattaya. Instead, they were misled by their driver and diverted to the Thai-Myanmar border at the Mae Sot checkpoint in Tak Province, almost falling victim to a suspected call centre gang in Myawaddy, Myanmar. The incident occurred while Lt. Gen. Prachuap was at the Tak Immigration Office near the Thai-Myanmar border for a meeting with various anti-trafficking and cross-border crime agencies. During the meeting, local officials reported suspicious activity at the Ban Huai Hin Fon checkpoint, a key security post on the Mae Sot-Tak Road. Upon inspection, officers found five Chinese nationals—both men and women travelling in a private vehicle. Assisted by a Chinese interpreter, authorities verified their documents and interviewed the group, who explained they were en route to Pattaya when their driver diverted them to the Mae Sot border crossing. The Chinese tourists expressed shock at the sudden change in route and the dangerous situation they had unwittingly entered. Authorities suspect that, had the vehicle gone undetected, the tourists could have been transported across the border to Myawaddy, where they might have been coerced into working for criminal call centre organisations. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Following their rescue, officials facilitated the safe transfer of the group back on their journey to Pattaya, ensuring they avoided becoming victims of human trafficking. Simultaneously, security forces inspected other trafficking victims at the Tak Province Human Trafficking Victim Support Centre. Lt. Gen. Prachuap emphasised the government’s commitment to combating human trafficking and cross-border crime. In collaboration with international and local agencies, Thailand aims to increase border security, particularly along key routes that traffickers use to transport victims to third countries, reported Thai Rath. -- 2024-11-13

Mystery Car Parked Directly on Krabi Beach Sparks Concerns Among Sunbathers By Tanakorn Panyadee PHOTO: MGR Online ภาคใต้ Krabi — A mysterious car parked directly on the beach in Koh Lanta, Krabi, left sunbathers bewildered. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343387-mystery-car-parked-directly-on-krabi-beach-sparks-concerns-among-sunbathers/

Krabi — A mysterious car parked directly on the beach in Koh Lanta, Krabi, left sunbathers bewildered. On November 11th, a sedan was spotted driving onto Klong Dao Beach in the Koh Lanta district, Krabi province, while tourists were sunbathing nearby. It was suspected that the car was abandoned by its owner before they went for a walk along the beach. A local who goes by the name Sittichai Krabi on TikTok posted a one-minute video, showing a gray Toyota Vios with a Bangkok license plate parked on the beach. The post was captioned, “Klong Dao Beach, Sala Dan, Koh Lanta, Krabi. Here’s a car on the beach.” By Tanakorn Panyadee PHOTO: MGR Online ภาคใต้ Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS -- 2024-11-13

Thaksin Summoned by House Panel to Testify on Police Hospital Stay FILE - Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, center, arrives at Don Muang airport in Bangkok, Thailand, on Aug. 22, 2023. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit, File) Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, alongside high-profile government figures, has been summoned to testify before a House committee later this month concerning his controversial stay at Police Hospital last year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343385-thaksin-summoned-by-house-panel-to-testify-on-police-hospital-stay/