webfact

Heavy downpours forecasted across 42 Thai provinces, flash floods expected by Nattapong Westwood Moody sky over wheat fields with lightning generated by artificial intelligence Picture courtesy of vecstock, Freepik The country has been warned of possible intense downpours today by the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD), affecting 42 major provinces across Thailand, including Bangkok. Residents are being cautioned of sudden flash floods. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301301-heavy-downpours-forecasted-across-42-thai-provinces-flash-floods-expected/

The country has been warned of possible intense downpours today by the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD), affecting 42 major provinces across Thailand, including Bangkok. Residents are being cautioned of sudden flash floods. At 5am today, the TMD forecasted a 24-hour weather change with the intrusion of monsoons from the north and northeast. These monsoons are heading towards a low-pressure area along the Vietnamese coast, reinforcing the southwest monsoon that currently covers the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand. This combination of weather patterns is expected to increase rainfall across the country with the possibility of heavy rain in some areas. Citizens in these vulnerable areas are advised to be conscious of dangers from heavy rain and accumulated rainfall, which might lead to sudden flash floods and forest runoff. Coastal areas along the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand can expect waves as high as 2 to 3 metres. Areas experiencing thunderstorms could see waves higher than 3 metres. Local fishermen along the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand are urged to navigate with caution and avoid areas experiencing thunderstorms. Small boats should avoid venturing from the coast. The weather forecast for Thailand from 6am today until 6am tomorrow predicts strong rainfall and thunderstorms in the north, affecting 70% of the region, with some areas expected to experience heavy rain. Temperatures will vary between 23 and 26 degrees Celsius, with a high of 31 to 35 degrees Celsius. The southwestern winds are blowing at a speed of 10 to 20 kilometres an hour. In the northeast, there is a 70% chance of rain and thunderstorms. Heavy rainfall is expected in parts of the provinces Loei, Nong Bua Lamphu, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Udon Thani, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Mukdahan, Amnat Charoen, Si Sa Ket, and Ubon Ratchathani. Temperatures will range between a low of 24 to 26 degrees Celsius, with a high of 31 to 34 degrees Celsius. The prevailing wind is blowing southwest at 10 to 20 kilometres per hour, reported KhaoSod. by Nattapong Westwood Top picture: Moody sky over wheat fields with lightning generated by artificial intelligence Picture courtesy of vecstock, Freepik Full story: https://thethaiger.com/hot-news/weather/heavy-downpours-forecasted-across-42-thai-provinces-linked-to-monsoons-flash-floods-expected -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-07-21 - 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.

PRD Organizes Press Study Tour to Showcase Thai Gastronomy by Woraprat Lerpaisal BANGKOK (NNT) - The Foreign Office of the Government Public Relations Department (PRD) hosted a study tour titled “Culinary Experience: Wisdom of Thai Gastronomy to Promote Soft Power,” in hopes of showcasing Thai cuisine and sharing knowledge about Thai cuisine with the international community. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301298-prd-organizes-press-study-tour-to-showcase-thai-gastronomy/

Tesla in Thailand: The future of green mobility and autonomous vehicles by Ja mey Lao Tesla Model Y. PHOTO: Tesla Official Website Following its debut in Thailand at the end of last year, US-based automobile giant Tesla continues to expand its influence in the Thai market. With a test centre open in Ramkhamhaeng, customers can try driving various Tesla models as they wish, buy Tesla products, and pick up their ordered Tesla cars. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301293-tesla-in-thailand-the-future-of-green-mobility-and-autonomous-vehicles/

Following its debut in Thailand at the end of last year, US-based automobile giant Tesla continues to expand its influence in the Thai market. With a test centre open in Ramkhamhaeng, customers can try driving various Tesla models as they wish, buy Tesla products, and pick up their ordered Tesla cars. Tesla plans to increase the number of supercharging stations throughout Thailand, building on the existing charging stations around Bangkok (centralwOrld, Central Rama 3, and ICONSIAM). The introduction of Tesla is exciting for the Land of Smiles, as it can potentially help tackle gas emission issues in the transport sector and introduce self-driving capabilities. Bangkok Traffic Jam. Photo by BartPhotography (Flickr) A road to a greener future In Southeast Asia, Thailand is one of the countries heavily affected by the effects of climate change, with long-term impacts including increasing frequency of flooding, droughts, storms, and soaring temperatures. Thailand’s greenhouse gas emissions have been an ongoing issue and driver of climate change, with transport being the second highest contributor to Thailand’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Out of the GHG emissions in 2016, transport accounted for 27.21% of total emissions. by Jamey Lao Tesla Model Y. PHOTO: Tesla Official Website Full story: https://thethaiger.com/guides/automotive/tesla-in-thailand-the-future-of-green-mobility-and-autonomous-vehicles -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-07-21 - 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.

Thailand faces uncertain political future, Wild Boar graduates in US : Tim Newton Today - July 21 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301291-thailand-faces-uncertain-political-future-wild-boar-graduates-in-us-tim-newton-today-july-21/

Thailand News - The calm before the next political storm as Thai MPs try and cobble together an alternative PM and coalition to form the next government, but there are no clear answers as to what will happen in the lead up to next week's parliamentary vote. Meanwhile protesters are warming up and we may see more activity in the streets of the capital. Better news for one of the Mu Pa (Wild Boar) football team members, five years on from his cave ordeal, as he graduates from a US school. Thailand loves its EVs and accounts for most of the sales in South East Asia. Tim Newton Today is a daily take on Thai and regional news and issues of interest to expats and foreign tourists. With thanks to our sponsor 5 Star Marine in Phuket for premium, private charters. Click on this link for a special offer for TNT viewers... https://5starmarinephuket.com/tim/

Highway collapse: Residents demand quick compensation after elevated road project mishap by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of KhaoSod English/Facebook Prompted by the destructive downfall of a chunk of an elevated highway project on Luang Phaeng road situated in Bangkok’s Lat Krabang district on July 10, residents are fervently appealing to the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) for a swift distribution of compensation and other financial aid post the unfortunate highway collapse. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301287-highway-collapse-residents-demand-quick-compensation-after-elevated-road-project-mishap/

“Middle East Gateway” seminar addresses challenges faced by Thai businesses selling to Middle East by Namo Vananupong BANGKOK (NNT) - With Thailand and Saudi Arabia having restored relations, Thai businesses have been able to expand more into the Middle East. Nonetheless, limitations stemming from local regulations and the lengthy shipping time for Thai products still present obstacles to Thai entrepreneurs. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301280-“middle-east-gateway”-seminar-addresses-challenges-faced-by-thai-businesses-selling-to-middle-east/

BANGKOK (NNT) - With Thailand and Saudi Arabia having restored relations, Thai businesses have been able to expand more into the Middle East. Nonetheless, limitations stemming from local regulations and the lengthy shipping time for Thai products still present obstacles to Thai entrepreneurs. Thanis Na Songkhla, former consul general at the Thai consulate in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, attended a seminar titled “Middle East Gateway: Opening the Door to the Trading World in the Middle East”. The seminar was organized by the Small and Medium Enterprise Development Bank (SME D Bank) and the Institute for Small and Medium Enterprises Development (ISMED). Thanis elaborated that Thai businesses have been expanding more toward the Middle East region after Thailand’s relations with Saudi Arabia improved. Frozen food, Hom Mali rice, automotive parts, furniture, cosmetics, trees, wellness services, health services, and spa services were being increasingly exported to the Middle East. According to the former consul general to Saudi Arabia, Thai businesses are restricted by transportation costs that remain high because of fluctuations in energy prices. They are also restricted by a lengthy shipping time for products and local regulations, notably tariffs. This means Thailand’s competitiveness still falls behind that of trade competitors. Thanis said the best solution would be for private sector players to group together to bring down transportation costs. If successful, this would create more opportunities for Thai products in the Middle East. SME D Bank will be providing loans to exporters that need working capital. ISMED will provide consultation on topics such as the behavior of Middle Eastern consumers, trade competition in the Middle East, and product development. by Namo Vananupong Source: https://thainews.prd.go.th/en/news/detail/TCATG230721085311457 -- © Copyright NNT 2023-07-21 - 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.

Bangkok transport’s long and bumpy journey to a common ticket system By Thai PBS World Greater Bangkok’s MRT underground and BTS Skytrain transport systems are so convenient that millions of residents and visitors rely on them despite the high fares. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301278-bangkok-transport’s-long-and-bumpy-journey-to-a-common-ticket-system/

Motorbike accident: Young woman dies, another critically injured in a fatal collision near Bangkok University by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A tragic motorbike accident resulted in the death of a 23 year old woman, with another critically injured when their motorbike crashed head-on with a fully laden bus on Phaholyothin Road in Khlong Luang district, Pathum Thani, close to Bangkok University. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301275-motorbike-accident-young-woman-dies-another-critically-injured-in-a-fatal-collision-near-bangkok-university/

Saudi-Thailand relations: Leaders discuss tourism and investment amid strengthening ties by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Government House via Bangkok Post Chairman of Saudi Arabia’s Consultative Assembly, Abdullah Mohammed Ibrahim Al-Sheikh was heartily welcomed by Thailand’s Prime Minister, Prayut Chan-o-Cha yesterday for a constructive dialogue on potential collaboration for tourism and investment in Thailand’s Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301273-saudi-thailand-relations-leaders-discuss-tourism-and-investment-amid-strengthening-ties/

Chairman of Saudi Arabia’s Consultative Assembly, Abdullah Mohammed Ibrahim Al-Sheikh was heartily welcomed by Thailand’s Prime Minister, Prayut Chan-o-Cha yesterday for a constructive dialogue on potential collaboration for tourism and investment in Thailand’s Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). The Saudi-Thailand relations discussion was announced by Tipanan Sirichana, deputy government spokesperson for Thailand. Al-Sheikh, leading the delegation from Saudi Arabia, had a deliberation with Prime Minister Prayut aimed at fortifying their collaborative legislative activities and enhancing their bilateral relationship. Insights from the discourse will hasten the cooperation between the two nations, prompting a strengthening of ties, noted Tipanan. The Saudi-Thailand relations discussion, according to Tipanan, was primarily centred on elevating their relationships and investment potentialities, specifically in the EEC zone. This zone encompasses three eastern provinces of Thailand, namely, Chon Buri, Rayong, and Chachoengsao. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Government House via Bangkok Post Full story: https://thethaiger.com/hot-news/economy/saudi-and-thai-leaders-discuss-tourism-and-investment-amid-strengthening-ties -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-07-21 - 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.

Business events sector in Thailand set for a boost with projected tourism rebound by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The business events sector in Thailand is set to benefit from the buoyancy of the country’s tourism industry and a new influx of trade shows this year, fuelled in part by the country’s stable political environment, according to specialists at Informa Markets Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301272-business-events-sector-in-thailand-set-for-a-boost-with-projected-tourism-rebound/

The business events sector in Thailand is set to benefit from the buoyancy of the country’s tourism industry and a new influx of trade shows this year, fuelled in part by the country’s stable political environment, according to specialists at Informa Markets Thailand. Sanchai Noombunnam, who helms the firm in Thailand, drew attention to predictions that the country would recoup 80% of its foreign arrivals recorded in 2019 – a factor that has bolstered confidence for both domestic and international business travellers. He also highlighted the restart of China’s export services, which has triggered a rally in the morale of overseas exhibitors and buyers. Informa Markets Thailand has unveiled plans to organise 16 exhibitions this year, marking an upswing from the 14 conducted last year, and the average of 9 to 10 annual events seen before the pandemic hit. Annual revenue, in turn, is forecast to cross the 1 billion baht threshold, reflecting a complete recovery to 2019 revenue levels. The company’s projections are bolstered by the performance of three exhibitions already conducted this year, which have focussed on the jewellery, machinery and pharmaceutical industries, and have generated high revenue figures. by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Full story: https://thethaiger.com/news/business/thai-business-events-sector-set-for-boost-with-projected-tourism-rebound-2 -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-07-21 - 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.

Thai finance minister proposes high-value fruit insurance, EV premium changes by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of thaipbsworld.com Exuding a wave of fresh optimism for the agricultural and green sectors, Finance Minister Arkhom Termpittayapaisith has floated a revolutionary proposal – the launch of insurance for high-value fruits. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301270-thai-finance-minister-proposes-high-value-fruit-insurance-ev-premium-changes/

Exuding a wave of fresh optimism for the agricultural and green sectors, Finance Minister Arkhom Termpittayapaisith has floated a revolutionary proposal – the launch of insurance for high-value fruits. A measure aimed at fortifying the faith of fruit farmers, the proposal was made during a compelling keynote speech at the CEO Insurance Forum 2023. The main theme for the forum, which was organised by the Office of Insurance Commission (OIC), revolved around “The Role of Insurance Business in Promoting Sustainable Social and Economic Growth”. To build a cushion against the turbulence of natural disasters, existing insurance norms in the agriculture sector cover damage specifically to durian trees and other economic fruits. However, there’s a demand from fruit growers to extend this safety net to the fruits themselves. Shedding light on the practical challenges of such a move, Arkhom remarked that objections from insurance companies rest on the potential for massive reimbursements. For instance, in an episode that witnessed storm-induced damage to an orange orchard in Chiang Rai, the cost of compensation ran into hundreds of millions of baht. Proposing a probabilistic risk assessment for insurance premiums, he expressed a desire to negotiate with the OIC for new policies that focus on the risk level of the fruits. He advocated that this innovative approach will augment the confidence level of high-value fruit cultivators. Arkhom further touched upon the need for a strategic change in insurance norms for electric vehicles (EVs). He reasoned that high premiums are applied owing to the assumption that EVs incur mammoth repair costs. Offering a plausible solution, he indicated that risk-related stipulation of premiums could bear fruitful results. by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of thaipbsworld.com Full story: https://thethaiger.com/news/business/thai-finance-minister-proposes-high-value-fruit-insurance-ev-premium-changes -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-07-21 - 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.

Phone scam: 400,000 baht stolen using face recognition and hacking, former Bangkok MP aids victim by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Former Bangkok MP Patcharin Sumsiripong accompanied a woman who was tricked by fraudsters claiming to be land officials riding her phone. They managed to confiscate her money by gaining her trust using accurate data before she realised that her money had been transferred to another account. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301268-phone-scam-400000-baht-stolen-using-face-recognition-and-hacking-former-bangkok-mp-aids-victim/

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Friday 21 July 2023 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301265-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-friday-21-july-2023/

A Former charter drafting chairman says parliament’s rejection of Pita Lim-jaroen-rat for prime minister was unconstitutional. Adding “Invoking a parliamentary session regulation has crippled the constitution. The Move Forward Party will renominate its leader Mr Pita for prime minister even though a majority of both House representatives and senators earlier rejected the renomination. Meanwhile The Pheu Thai Party will oppose any change to the lese-majeste law if it leads the next government, according to their prime ministerial candidate Srettha Thavi-sin. They could potentially drop its coalition partner Move Forward Party and form a new alliance with military-backed parties. However Pheu Thai said yesterday it will continue to work with Move Forward. The baht strengthened against the dollar yesterday after days of uncertainty in parliament. Nine police officers have been removed from the Immigration department at Suvarnabhum airport after video’s emerged that showed they escorted ‘Jackson Wang’ from Hong Kong through Immigration formalities while other international arrivals had to wait in line. 5 people were killed and 12 injured after a large truck drove through a red light and into a pickup truck that was carrying migrant workers in Tak province, the truck driver was arrested and charged with reckless driving resulting in death and injury. Thailand has become the main regional auto manufacturing center— producing almost 79% of all EVs sold in Southeast Asia in the first quarter of this year. The government offered incentives to consumers and subsidies to automakers to build more EVs here,. Car makers from China such as GWM and BYD responded by setting up manufacturing plants.. Around 30 percent of auto production will be EV’s by 2030. Around the Region: Malaysia has issued a licence to Starlink, the satellite communications service started by Elon Musk, to provide internet services, particularly in remote areas and to ensure 100 per cent internet coverage in populated areas. The weather: Rain continues to sweep in from the west. Chiang Mai and the north: Cloudy, with thundershowers 33C Bangkok: Cloudy, with thunderstorms 33C Pattaya, Cloudy, with thunderstorms 31C Phuket and the south: Cloudy, thundershowers 29C ‘Hua Hin’ :cloudy ,with rain 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 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 -- © Copyright SURF 102.5 FM 2023-07-21 - 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.

Thai delivery rider assaulted roadside, manhunt for patterned shirt suspect underway by Samantha Rose Photo courtesy of Freepik In a harrowing assault incident, a female delivery rider was assaulted and left dazed and confused on a Thai roadside. The woman, identified as Pennapha, 36 years old, was found offering no recollection of the incident and suffered visible injuries. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301264-thai-delivery-rider-assaulted-roadside-manhunt-for-patterned-shirt-suspect-underway/

Thailand sees tourism growth skyrocketing to three trillion baht in 2023 by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Istock Thailand recently experienced a surge in international arrivals, with numbers reaching 15 million within just seven months of this year encouraging tourism growth, informed Rachada Dhnadirek, a deputy government spokesperson. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301263-thailand-sees-tourism-growth-skyrocketing-to-three-trillion-baht-in-2023/

Thailand recently experienced a surge in international arrivals, with numbers reaching 15 million within just seven months of this year encouraging tourism growth, informed Rachada Dhnadirek, a deputy government spokesperson. She acknowledged the substantial contribution of northern hemisphere school summer breaks increasing the influx of international tourists to the vibrant Southeast Asian nation, thereby boosting tourism growth. In response to these favourable conditions, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) announced an innovative campaign titled “Amazing Thailand Health and Wellness: New Chapters New Experience” geared towards supporting medical tourism and attracting wellness tourists who boast significant purchasing capacity. Concerning domestic tourism growth, the TAT laid out plans to spotlight local attractions in each region, a strategic move aimed at redistributing income generated by tourism to local communities across the entire nation reveals Rachada. “TAT projects the revenue from tourism to hit a high of three trillion baht next year, with international tourists accounting for 1.92 trillion baht and domestic tourists contributing 1.08 trillion baht,” Rachada elaborated. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Istock Full story: https://thethaiger.com/hot-news/economy/thailand-sees-tourism-boom-skyrocketing-to-three-trillion-baht-in-2023 -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-07-21 - 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.

Communication Line Fire Shakes Sattahip Residents Picture: Siam Rath On July 20 at 4:50 PM, an alarming fire incident occurred in Sattahip, Chonburi. The fire blazed through communication lines near the Sattahip market, situated opposite the Sattahip Navy Base and close to the Thai Military Bank. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301261-communication-line-fire-shakes-sattahip-residents/