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Thaksin Tells Pheu Thai to Abandon Digital Wallet Plan FILE - Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit, File) Pheu Thai Party patriarch Thaksin Shinawatra has reportedly instructed the ruling party to drop its digital wallet flagship policy. This direction came just hours after the Constitutional Court ousted Thailand's PM Srettha Thavisin from his position as prime minister. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335648-thaksin-tells-pheu-thai-to-abandon-digital-wallet-plan/

FILE - Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit, File) Pheu Thai Party patriarch Thaksin Shinawatra has reportedly instructed the ruling party to drop its digital wallet flagship policy. This direction came just hours after the Constitutional Court ousted Thailand's PM Srettha Thavisin from his position as prime minister. On Wednesday evening, during a meeting at his Chan Song Lar residence with key party members, Thaksin urged his daughter, Pheu Thai leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra, to halt the 450-billion-baht scheme for digital handouts of 10,000 baht. With the economy on shaky ground, he argued the timing was inappropriate for such an extensive expenditure, according to party sources. The digital wallet scheme, designed to spur spending, has drawn considerable criticism due to its hefty price tag. Initially estimated at 500 billion baht, the project’s cost was later trimmed to 450 billion, to be funded over two fiscal years—2024 and 2025, reported The Nation. Previously, Caretaker Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat was adamant that the scheme would proceed regardless of Srettha's political fate. However, his stance shifted post-meeting at Thaksin's residence. On Thursday, Julapun acknowledged that the scheme's continuation now depended on the new prime minister and Cabinet’s decisions. Speaking to reporters at Parliament, he stated: "When a new prime minister is elected and forms the new Cabinet, the government will need to present its policies to Parliament again. We must respect the incoming PM's choices on government policies." Julapun noted that Pheu Thai planned to discuss the digital wallet scheme with its coalition partners during Cabinet formation negotiations. Each partner's policies would be reviewed, making it uncertain which policies would be adopted. In the interim, subcommittees responsible for implementing the digital wallet scheme would continue holding meetings until the new Cabinet reached a decision. The Finance Ministry’s permanent secretary, Lawan Saengsanit, would lead these meetings on Julapun's behalf. Though the project's future remains unclear, it's evident the party is bracing for significant policy shifts in the wake of Srettha's removal. -- 2024-08-16 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Friday 16 August 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335647-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-friday-16-august-2024/

The daughter of Thaksin Shinawatra, 37 year old Paetongtarn, will be nominated at a special vote of parliament today and, if successful, would become Thailand's second female premier and the third Shinawatra to hold the top post. The announcement follows behind-the-scenes talks since a court dismissed Srettha Thavisin as premier, Paetongtarn told a joint press conference yesterday, her party and coalition partners will push the country forward," Police are searching for four Chinese nationals who broke into a luxury home in Pathum Thani, tied up the residents, and forced a Chinese businessman to transfer $2 million to them. The suspects, armed with guns and knives, disabled and removed security cameras before fleeing. Two plainclothes Bangkok police officers fatally shot a 46-year-old man outside a Surawong Road nightclub yesterday. The man, claiming to be a police investigator, allegedly fired at the officers, prompting them to return fire. The officers, on surveillance duty, stated they didn't intend to kill him. The man’s brother accused the police of overreacting and vowed to seek justice. The Royal Thai Armed Forces (RTARF) will send 273 engineers to support the United Nations Mission in South Sudan. The group are due to depart on Sunday and will replace the first group who have been there since july last year. Around the region China has promised technical support and aid to Myanmar’s military to enable a census, followed by an election, this is seen by some as signalling Beijing’s backing for a junta that has been cornered by an armed rebellion and has steadily lost ground. Todays Weather Chiang Mai and the north: cloudy, thundershowers 32C degrees celsius Bangkok: Bright, partly cloudy, thundershowers 35 Pattaya: Partly Cloudy thundershowers 32 Phuket and the south: Sunny thundershowers 30 Hua Hin: Sunny, perhaps some showers this evening 32C Much the same over the weekend . AQI: green which is good Green clear, yellow moderate, Orange High, Red unhealthy. Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Wunderground.com The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Windy.com. -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-08-16 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Tracing the Career of 'Big Joke': Former Dep Police Chief Dismissed for Severe Misconduct Picture courtesy: Daily News A look back at the career path of Pol. Gen. Surachate "Big Joke" Hakparn, before his dismissal from the position of Deputy Police Chief due to allegations of severe disciplinary violations, leading to a formal investigation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335644-tracing-the-career-of-big-joke-former-dep-police-chief-dismissed-for-severe-misconduct/

Picture composite courtesy: Daily News A look back at the career path of Pol. Gen. Surachate "Big Joke" Hakparn, before his dismissal from the position of Deputy Police Chief due to allegations of severe disciplinary violations, leading to a formal investigation. Pol. Gen. Surachate, known by his nickname "Big Joke," was born on October 29, 1970 (currently 54 years old) in Sadao District, Songkhla Province. He completed his high school education at Mahavajiravudh School and earned a Master's degree in Criminology and Justice Administration from Mahidol University, as well as two Ph.D. degrees—one in Public Administration from Eastern Asia University and another in Criminology, Justice Administration, and Society (Special Program) from Mahidol University. He is a graduate of the 47th Class of the Royal Police Cadet Academy and the 31st Class of the Armed Forces Academies Preparatory School. He was set to retire in 2031. Picture courtesy: Daily News Pol. Gen. Surachate is well-known for his involvement in high-profile cases, such as the "Cyanide Serial Killer" case, the Thai surrogacy scandal, the case involving the Foundation for the Protection of Children (Ban Kru Yoon) abusing children and forcing them to work in a resort, dismantling illegal oil trafficking networks, Chinese mafia cases, and land encroachment on Koh Lipe. He also served as Director of the Center for the Protection of Children, Women, Families, and Prevention of Human Trafficking and Fisheries (CPCR) under the Royal Thai Police. In this role, Pol. Gen. Surachate noted that international organizations had evaluated Thailand more favorably and pushed for improvements in criminal record management and updates to police regulations regarding fingerprinting procedures in 2023, reported Daily News. Before the order to remove him from his position, Pol. Gen. Surachate used the Police Club on Vibhavadi Rangsit Road as a space to receive complaints from citizens who felt they had been treated unfairly by the justice system. As of today (August 15), the Royal Gazette website published the Prime Minister's Office announcement officially dismissing Pol. Gen. Surachate from his position due to severe misconduct allegations that led to the establishment of an investigative committee. Pol. Gen. Surachate had served in the police force for about 30 years, starting in 1994. -- 2024-08-16 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Loan Shark Retaliation Fails: Grenade Thrown at Garage Owner Picture: Daily News A gang of loan sharks shockingly threw an M79 grenade at a car repair shop in Chaiyaphum Province after a debtor reported them to the police. Thankfully, the grenade did not explode. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335642-loan-shark-retaliation-fails-grenade-thrown-at-garage-owner/

A gang of loan sharks shockingly threw an M79 grenade at a car repair shop in Chaiyaphum Province after a debtor reported them to the police. Thankfully, the grenade did not explode. The incident unfolded on August 15 when Mr. Chatchawet, 55, owner of the shop on Niwet Rat Road, notified the police after discovering the unexploded device. Mr. Chatchawet explained that he had gone to retrieve spare parts when he found the grenade. His quick thinking led him to call the authorities immediately. Earlier, on August 9, Mr. Chatchawet had reported a gang of high-interest loan sharks to the Muang Chaiyaphum Police Station. These loan sharks, described as three men aged between 35 and 40, had threatened his elderly parents. They drove a modified Isuzu D-Max pickup without a licence plate. The police pursued the gang and initiated legal actions, reported Daily News. Picture courtesy: Daily News The issue began in early July when Mr. Chatchawet borrowed 12,000 baht from the gang, receiving only 9,000 baht after deductions. They imposed a daily interest rate of 20 baht, demanding a daily payment of 500 baht. When Mr. Chatchawet’s father fell seriously ill and was hospitalised, the family couldn't meet the loan repayments. This led the gang to storm the shop and intimidate his father. The financial hardship and subsequent threats compelled Mr. Chatchawet to seek police intervention. He provided video evidence against the gang, spurring police action. The aggressive throw of the grenade is believed to be retaliation for his complaint. As investigations continue, Mr. Chatchawet calls for justice, hoping the authorities will apprehend the gang to prevent further threats. This unnerving episode highlights the severe risks associated with predatory lending and underscores the need for stringent enforcement against illegal loan practices. TOP Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-08-16 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Naked Foreigner Rescued from Cow Attack in Dramatic Incident Photo composite courtesy: Daily News In a bizarre and startling turn of events on the evening of 15th August, rescue teams in Ban Na Derm, Surat Thani Province, were called to a scene where a naked foreign man was aggressively being gored by a cow. The incident unfolded along Highway 41 at the intersection with Highway 44. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335641-naked-foreigner-rescued-from-cow-attack-in-dramatic-incident/

Photo composite courtesy: Daily News In a bizarre and startling turn of events on the evening of 15th August, rescue teams in Ban Na Derm, Surat Thani Province, were called to a scene where a naked foreign man was aggressively being gored by a cow. The incident unfolded along Highway 41 at the intersection with Highway 44. The Kusonsattha Foundation rescue team received an urgent report at 5:40 p.m. and hurried to the location along with police officers. Upon arrival, they discovered a naked man in the forest next to the road. He was clinging desperately to the head of a female brown cow, visibly battered and bruised from the encounter. Rescue workers attempted to intervene, but the agitated cow was relentless. Efforts to restrain it failed, prompting the team to seek out the cow's owner. With the owner's intervention, the cow was finally calmed, and the man was extricated from the dangerous situation. He was transported to Ban Na Derm Hospital for medical evaluation. However, he astoundingly refused treatment and left the hospital immediately to return home. Locals provided some insight into the preceding events. Earlier in the day, the man was seen riding a motorcycle, which he parked under the bridge near the intersection of Route 44 due to a flat tire. Ignoring the minor inconvenience, he ventured into the forest. It wasn't long before villagers were alarmed by loud cries for help. They discovered the man, now inexplicably naked, being aggressively pursued and gored by the cow, reported Dailt News. The reason behind the man's peculiar actions remains unclear, leaving the community puzzled and concerned. Speculations abound, ranging from possible mental distress to the effects of substances, but no definitive explanations have surfaced. Local authorities are expected to continue their investigation into this unusual incident, seeking to understand and prevent such occurrences in the future. Meanwhile, the story has captured the attention and bewilderment of the local community, leaving them to ponder the curious and dangerous afternoon on their otherwise quiet roadside. -- 2024-08-16 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe Thairath video https://cdn.jwplayer.com/previews/bXdlFD0M

Thailand Cracks Down on Foreign Businesses to Protect Local SMEs Picture courtesy: National News Bureau of Thailand The Department of Business Development (DBD) in Thailand is ramping up efforts to strictly enforce laws surrounding foreign businesses to ensure fair competition for Thai entrepreneurs. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335638-thailand-cracks-down-on-foreign-businesses-to-protect-local-smes/

The Department of Business Development (DBD) in Thailand is ramping up efforts to strictly enforce laws surrounding foreign businesses to ensure fair competition for Thai entrepreneurs. Director-General Auramon Supthaweethum has confirmed the department's resolve to work closely with law enforcement to ensure compliance, particularly targeting foreign enterprises that might exploit nominee shareholders to bypass the 1999 Foreign Business Act. Offenders of these regulations will face stringent penalties under the new, robust enforcement strategy. Auramon stressed the department's proactive stance in supporting Thai small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), particularly as the fast-expanding online commerce sector introduces low-cost products that challenge local businesses. To counter these threats and bolster Thai SMEs, the DBD has crafted nine strategic measures aimed at enhancing their competitiveness, reported NNT. Among these measures are initiatives to broaden online market channels, boost e-commerce capabilities, and promote unique Thai community products. Additionally, efforts are being made to secure affordable sales spaces for businesses and equip SMEs with vital business knowledge and digital tools necessary for modern enterprise. Integration of business networks through initiatives like the MOC Biz Club, and support for the growth of local franchises, are also key focus areas. The DBD is taking steps to modernize traditional retail stores, enabling their participation in the broader supply chain, and ensuring they are not left behind amid rapid market changes. These concerted actions underscore the DBD's commitment to providing Thai SMEs with the necessary edge to thrive in an increasingly competitive global market. By enforcing foreign business laws more rigorously and fortifying local businesses with strategic support, the department aims to foster a resilient and fair business environment, ensuring sustainable growth for Thai entrepreneurs. TOP Picture courtesy: National News Bureau of Thailand -- 2024-08-16 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Woman Charged for Blocking Parking Space with Traffic Cone in Patong By Goongnang Suksawat Patong, Phuket– A Thai woman has been charged after using a traffic cone to reserve a parking space on a public roadside in Patong. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335637-woman-charged-for-blocking-parking-space-with-traffic-cone-in-patong/

Patong, Phuket– A Thai woman has been charged after using a traffic cone to reserve a parking space on a public roadside in Patong. The Patong Police informed the Phuket Express that a video clip showing the woman placing a traffic cone to block a parking area went viral on social media this week. Following the viral video, police tracked down the woman, identified only as Ms. Sompong, a Thai national. Ms. Sompong was summoned to the Patong Police Station, where she was charged with blocking traffic without permission. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-08-16 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Hoteliers Unimpressed by New Tax Incentives to Boost Thai Tourism Picture courtesy: Bestagency The Thai government's recent tax incentives aimed at boosting tourism in secondary provinces have been met with scepticism by the country's hoteliers. Despite the effort to encourage growth through financial benefits, hotel entrepreneurs’ response has been notably lukewarm. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335636-hoteliers-unimpressed-by-new-tax-incentives-to-boost-thai-tourism/

The Thai government's recent tax incentives aimed at boosting tourism in secondary provinces have been met with scepticism by the country's hoteliers. Despite the effort to encourage growth through financial benefits, hotel entrepreneurs’ response has been notably lukewarm. In a survey carried out by the Thai Hotels Association (THA) in collaboration with the Bank of Thailand, the latest hospitality operators’ confidence index revealed that 50% of the 102 respondents expect the new tax policy to increase their income by just 5% this year. Most of the remaining respondents anticipate no more than a 10% rise in income. Yesterday, THA President Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun highlighted a critical issue that the policy overlooks—the chronic shortage of skilled workers, affecting around 40% of hotel operators surveyed. Thienprasit pointed out that without addressing workforce needs, the impact of tax incentives could remain minimal. The survey also illuminated the revenue breakdown for hotels, showing that 70% of their income comes from tourist customers, with less than 20% originating from the business sector, known as the MICE group (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions). This sheds light on a disconnect, as the government’s tourism push is heavily directed towards the MICE segment in secondary provinces, reported The Nation. Adding to the complexity, in the third quarter of this year, more than half of the hotel operators increased their room rates compared to the previous year. Most 4-star establishments limited their price hikes to within 10%, reflecting cautious optimism about the potential influx of tourists. Hoteliers are calling for more substantial support measures. Their proposals include subsidies for utility costs, a delay in raising the minimum wage, and reductions in land and building taxes. They also seek broader tax deductions on business expenses. Thienprasit stressed the urgent need for governmental intervention in resolving labour shortages. Hoteliers are advocating for the creation of a dedicated agency to source skilled workers and provide vital training, particularly in language skills, for existing staff. TOP Picture courtesy: Bestagency -- 2024-08-16 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Woman Criticised for Offering Pay for Extra Luggage Space on Japan Flight A woman from Thailand faced harsh criticism online after posting a request for someone to transport her additional luggage to Japan for a fee. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335610-thai-woman-criticised-for-offering-pay-for-extra-luggage-space-on-japan-flight/

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 16 August 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1335635-thailand-live-friday-16-august-2024/

Bhumjaithai to Back Pheu Thai's Prime Minister Candidate, But with a Condition File photo for reference only The Bhumjaithai party will back any candidate from the Pheu Thai party for the Prime Minister's position, as long as they do not support a change in Article 112 of the Penal Code, said Bhumjaithai's party leader, Anutin Charnvirakul on Thursday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335596-bhumjaithai-to-back-pheu-thais-prime-minister-candidate-but-with-a-condition/

Leader of Pheu Thai Party, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, daughter of Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, wave before press conference in Bangkok, Thailand, Thursday, Aug. 15, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Paetongtarn Shinawatra to be Nominated as Thailand's New PM The Pheu Thai Party has announced that it will nominate Paetongtarn Shinawatra as its candidate for Prime Minister to succeed Srettha Thavisin, who was removed from office by the Constitutional Court on Wednesday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335634-paetongtarn-shinawatra-to-be-nominated-as-thailands-new-pm/

Leader of Pheu Thai Party, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, daughter of Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, wave before press conference in Bangkok, Thailand, Thursday, Aug. 15, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) The Pheu Thai Party has announced that it will nominate Paetongtarn Shinawatra as its candidate for Prime Minister to succeed Srettha Thavisin, who was removed from office by the Constitutional Court on Wednesday. Paetongtarn, 37, the youngest daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, was elected as the Pheu Thai leader last October. If elected by parliament during a special session today (Friday), she would become Thailand's 31st and youngest-ever Prime Minister, the second female to hold the position, and the third Shinawatra family member to do so, following her father Thaksin and her aunt Yingluck Shinawatra. The press conference announcing her nomination was attended by government coalition leaders who expressed their support, making her political future appear assured. "We are confident that we will work together to help the country move past its economic problems and advance into the future," Paetongtarn said, thanking both the public and the coalition government parties for their support. Initially, a meeting of government whips at Thaksin’s residence had agreed to nominate Chaikasem Nitisiri, 76, as their candidate. However, a meeting of Pheu Thai MPs today decided to nominate Paetongtarn instead. Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul also expressed his full support for Paetongtarn. "All the parties in the coalition government show their spirit in working together to ensure continuity in running the country," said Anutin, whose Bhumjaithai Party is the second biggest partner in the coalition. His endorsement is crucial. Paetongtarn, nicknamed “Ung-ing,” was born in the United States on August 21st, 1986, to Thaksin and Potjaman Na Pombejra. She has a bachelor's degree in political science from Chulalongkorn University and a master's in international hotel management from the University of Surrey in England reported Thai PBS. Before her political career, she was a major shareholder in SC Asset Corporation and held shares in around 20 other companies in real estate, telecom, and media sectors. She has experience as the chief executive of Rende Development Co. Ltd. Married to airline pilot Pidok Sooksawas, with whom she has two children, Paetongtarn was recently appointed as deputy chair of two national committees, on soft power strategy and public health system development, under Srettha’s government. -- 2024-08-16 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai police arrest fraudsters behind billion baht investment scam by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Thai police apprehended members of a fraudulent investment scheme involving a false claim of raising funds to list shares on the American stock market, resulting in over 1 billion baht in financial damages. Arrest warrants reveal 59 charges against the suspects. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335557-thai-police-arrest-fraudsters-behind-billion-baht-investment-scam/

Thai police apprehended members of a fraudulent investment scheme involving a false claim of raising funds to list shares on the American stock market, resulting in over 1 billion baht in financial damages. Arrest warrants reveal 59 charges against the suspects. Police Major General Phutthidej Boonkrapue, Head of the Economic Crime Suppression Division, directed the operation led by Police Colonel Mekphisarn Sripirom and Police Lieutenant Suttipong Monrat. The suspects, 52 year old Kanyapak and 30 year old Nakharin, were captured on a roadside in Phasi Charoen District, Bangkok. The case traces back to 2016, when the suspects, along with accomplices, established a direct-sales company promoting health products. They falsely claimed that the company would list its shares on the American stock market to attract investments. They promised high returns and special share prices for those who could recruit additional investors. Seminars and workshops were organised to educate potential investors on fundraising and stock savings, thereby enhancing the scheme’s credibility. A large number of people fell for the scam, investing substantial amounts of money. However, no returns or dividends were paid out, and the shares were never actually listed on the stock market as promised. This deception led to financial losses exceeding 1 billion baht (US$28.4 million), prompting numerous victims to file complaints across various jurisdictions, ultimately leading to the issuance of multiple arrest warrants, reported KhaoSod. The police discovered that the suspects, who held executive positions in the company and faced over 59 arrest warrants, had fled and were hiding in Bangkok. The police successfully apprehended them, although both suspects denied the charges during interrogation. They were subsequently handed over to the investigators for further legal proceedings. In related news, police apprehended a company executive accused of fraudulently selling non-existent tours, leaving customers stranded and causing an estimated 8 million baht in damages. Despite the allegations, the executive denies the tour fraud charges but admits to receiving a monthly salary of 100,000 baht. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-15 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Fate of digital wallet scheme unclear after Srettha’s departure by Petch Petpailin Photo by Sakchai Lalit via AP and InfoQuest The future of the 10,000 baht digital wallet scheme has become unclear after the departure of former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. The Pheu Thai Party secretary-general insisted that it would continue, while the former deputy finance minister expressed doubts. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335553-fate-of-digital-wallet-scheme-unclear-after-srettha’s-departure/

The future of the 10,000 baht digital wallet scheme has become unclear after the departure of former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. The Pheu Thai Party secretary-general insisted that it would continue, while the former deputy finance minister expressed doubts. The Constitutional Court, yesterday, August 14, removed former PM Srettha from office following a serious violation of political ethics. The former PM wrongfully appointed Phichit Chienban, who lacked the necessary qualifications, as a minister. Aside from the impact on the entire Cabinet, Srettha’s departure also sent shockwaves through Thai society, particularly among those looking forward to receiving the 10,000 baht in digital money promised as part of Srettha’s main campaign. Thai PBS reported that vendors in the Isaan province of Mahasarakham were not disappointed by the removal of the former PM, stating that he and his Cabinet had failed to address the economic issues as expected. However, they expressed concern that the digital wallet project might be discontinued without Srettha. Another group expressed worries that their personal information, provided during registration for the policy on August 1, might be leaked and used illegally beyond its original purpose. Sorrawong Thienthong, the Secretary-General of the Pheu Thai Party, gave an interview yesterday about the digital wallet policy, confirming that the project would continue because it was a significant campaign promise of the party and the coalition government parties supported it. Sorrawong added that the party would hold an official meeting after party leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra returns to Thailand from an overseas visit. Finance ministry uncertain Former Deputy Minister of Finance from the Pheu Thai Party, Julapun Amornvivat, expressed uncertainty, saying that the project might be affected and obstructed and that it was beyond his control. He also mentioned that he was unsure whether he would have the opportunity to oversee the project in the new Cabinet. Julapun disclosed that he could not confirm whether the project would continue, as it would depend on the agreement of each party member. According to a report from BangkokBizNews, the House of Representatives will meet tomorrow, August 16, at 10am to select the new PM of Thailand and appoint new Cabinet members. During the transition, Srettha is unable to perform his duties, so former Deputy PM Phumtham Wechayachai is now acting in his place. Other members of the Cabinet will also continue their work until the new Cabinet is established. Seven candidates for the upcoming PM selection have emerged from five coalition government parties. The former advisor to the ex-PM from the Pheu Thai Party, Chaikasem Nitisiri, has emerged as the strongest candidate, having been previously proposed as a prime ministerial candidate in both 2019 and 2023. However, some have pointed out that Chaikasem might face the same fate as Srettha, as he was also involved in the case involving Thaksin Shinawatra and his wife, similar to Phichit, who led to Srettha’s expulsion. by Petch Petpailin Photo by Sakchai Lalit via AP and InfoQuest Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-15 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe