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PM Paetongtarn crowned Politician of the Year in Bangkok poll By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Riau Pos Move over, rivals! Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has stormed ahead in the political popularity race, clinching the top spot in a nationwide survey that crowned her Politician of the Year 2024. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346770-pm-paetongtarn-crowned-politician-of-the-year-in-bangkok-poll/

Indian passengers turn Thai AirAsia plane into party zone - video By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Odisha TV India A flight to Thailand turned into a scene of mid-air mayhem, sparking outrage online after a viral video showcased the unruly behaviour of Indian passengers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346756-indian-passengers-turn-thai-airasia-plane-into-party-zone-video/

to continue: Thailand Live Saturday 21 December 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1346790-thailand-live-saturday-21-december-2024/

File photo for reference only Pattaya bar girl scams 10 million baht from South Korean man by Petch Petpailin A South Korean man lost more than 10 million baht to a Thai woman he met in Pattaya. The woman even claimed that she died of cancer to scam the foreigner out of his money. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346718-pattaya-bar-girl-scams-10-million-baht-from-south-korean-man/

Thai Virologist Dismisses Norovirus Outbreak 'Fake News' Dr. Yong. File photo courtesy: NNT A wave of concern has swept through Thailand following rumours of an alleged norovirus outbreak. However, experts, including a leading virologist from Chulalongkorn University, are urging calm, labelling the reports as misinformation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346757-thai-virologist-dismisses-norovirus-outbreak-fake-news/

Dr. Yong. File photo courtesy: NNT A wave of concern has swept through Thailand following rumours of an alleged norovirus outbreak. However, experts, including a leading virologist from Chulalongkorn University, are urging calm, labelling the reports as misinformation. In a clarifying statement released via Facebook on Thursday, Dr Yong Poovorawan, who heads the Centre of Excellence in Clinical Virology, reassured the public that there is no cause for alarm. Dr Yong, who has been researching noroviruses for over a decade, emphasised the natural diversity of the virus and its usual activity during cooler months. While norovirus incidents have been notably lower in recent years due to increased hygiene during the Covid-19 pandemic, Dr Yong noted a recent uptick as hygiene practices have become relaxed. The chatter about a significant outbreak allegedly affecting Thai schools in early November gained momentum after being shared widely on social platforms. The post suggested the situation was dire, with claims of widespread sickness among students and staff. However, Dr Yong clarified that the referenced outbreak actually occurred in China, not Thailand, as social media posts mistakenly indicated. "It's normal to see more norovirus cases during winter, similar to how we see increases in rotavirus cases. There's no need for panic," Dr Yong stated. In a coordinated effort to dispel fears, the Department of Health also tackled claims regarding an outbreak in Rayong. Social media reports had suggested that 1,436 students and teachers fell ill after a sports day event in early November. Officials were quick to label these claims as false, explaining that the actual culprit for the illness was identified as Escherichia coli, not norovirus. The department highlighted the importance of proper hygiene to prevent E. coli infections. With public anxiety brewing over such unsubstantiated reports, authorities are urging citizens to verify information through trustworthy sources before accepting it as fact. The impact of misinformation can be costly, not just financially but in terms of unnecessary panic and disruption. Despite the social media frenzy, it seems the real virus causing a stir is fake news. For the concerned Thai public, the message from health experts and officials is clear: keep calm, practice good hygiene, and always scrutinise the sources of your information, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-20

Photo via Tero Asia by Petch Petpailin A South Korean man lost more than 10 million baht to a Thai woman he met in Pattaya. The woman even claimed that she died of cancer to scam the foreigner out of his money. The South Korean victim, identified only as Danny, appeared on the Thai news programme ถกไม่เถียง (translated as Discussing, Not Arguing) on Channel 7 yesterday, December 19, to share his story of falling victim to a romance scam. Danny explained that he met the woman, who later scammed him, at a bar in Pattaya in December 2020. He noticed her unhappy demeanour and later discovered that she did not want to work there. Danny asked her to stop working and offered to support her financially. Their relationship officially began in January 2021. Danny revealed that he travelled back and forth between Thailand and South Korea, sending the woman between 40,000 and 50,000 baht each month. Typically, he would visit Thailand every two months and stay for 10 days before returning to South Korea. Later, the woman requested additional money, claiming her father passed away. Danny gave her 100,000 baht for her father’s funeral. Photo via Channel 7 The woman continued to request more money, citing various reasons. In addition to supporting his girlfriend, Danny also sent money to her relatives at her request. The woman claimed she needed 250,000 baht for a car accident, 100,000 baht for her coffee shop, 400,000 baht for further treatment from a car accident, 800,000 baht for the loss of their unborn baby, 400,000 baht for her brother’s gambling debts, and 1.6 million baht for cancer treatment. Fake death Danny believed the cancer claim as he saw her speaking to a doctor via video call. However, after paying for her supposed cancer treatment, Danny never saw her again. She claimed she could not meet him due to the severity of her condition. Danny realised he had been scammed when the woman’s sister contacted him, saying that his girlfriend died of cancer on December 11. Photo via Channel 7 Danny immediately travelled from South Korea to Thailand and searched for his girlfriend at the hospital and temple mentioned by her sister but found no evidence of her death. The sister claimed the body was at Siriraj Hospital and demanded 2 million baht for the funeral. The sister also told Danny that his girlfriend had a life insurance policy worth 5 million baht, which would be shared between him and the sister. However, Danny was told he needed to pay 10% of the amount, 500,000 baht, to the insurance company to claim the money. Danny searched for his girlfriend’s body again but found nothing. He then realised everything had been a lie. The woman and her family members subsequently blocked all contact with him. Danny insisted he would take legal action against the woman and the other five to six individuals involved in the scam. Channel 7 reporter that the South Korean man has not yet filed a complaint with Thai police. Photo via YouTube/ Tero Digital Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-20

Pattaya bar girl scams 10 million baht from South Korean man by Petch Petpailin Photo via Tero Asia A South Korean man lost more than 10 million baht to a Thai woman he met in Pattaya. The woman even claimed that she died of cancer to scam the foreigner out of his money. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346718-pattaya-bar-girl-scams-10-million-baht-from-south-korean-man/

Thai mother profited 150,000 baht from selling free nasal spray by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A troubling incident has come to light involving a mother who allegedly exploited the healthcare system by collecting free nasal spray medication from hospitals and selling it online. She reportedly visited 31 locations, amassing 318 bottles and profiting approximately 150,000 baht (US$4,340). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346732-thai-mother-profited-150000-baht-from-selling-free-nasal-spray/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod by Bright Choomanee A troubling incident has come to light involving a mother who allegedly exploited the healthcare system by collecting free nasal spray medication from hospitals and selling it online. She reportedly visited 31 locations, amassing 318 bottles and profiting approximately 150,000 baht (US$4,340). The National Health Security Office (NHSO) in Thailand has launched an urgent investigation into the matter, vowing to take strict action against such misuse. The incident gained attention following a post on a popular Thai web forum, Pantip, where a member questioned, “Should the healthcare system collapse with parents selling their child’s free medication?” The post detailed how the mother appeared unconcerned about her daughter’s need for the medication, choosing instead to profit by selling it. The post also speculated on whether the mother had become too accustomed to exploiting the system, given her alleged track record of selling previous batches. The post went viral, sparking outrage and prompting further scrutiny. According to reports, the woman managed to sell each bottle of nasal spray for 500 baht (US$15), accumulating a significant profit while hospitals complained about insufficient Nasal spray The NHSO, which oversees the universal health coverage in Thailand, is taking these allegations very seriously. Yesterday, December 19, Atthaporn Limpanyalert, Deputy Secretary General of the NHSO, addressed the situation, expressing gratitude for the information shared online. Atthaporn reiterated the importance of the universal health coverage system, designed to ensure everyone has access to healthcare without financial barriers. “Selling medication provided by hospitals online is inappropriate and unfair to other patients. It unnecessarily burdens medical staff and violates the law.” Preliminary investigations confirmed irregularities in the frequency of the mother’s visits to obtain medication. The NHSO tasked the relevant regional office with investigating whether the medication was collected from a single service unit or multiple locations. They also advised the recording of these activities in official logs to address the overall damage to the national health insurance fund caused by such actions. Affordable healthcare The NHSO’s fund is financed by public taxes, designed to cover medical expenses for citizens, particularly those holding the 30-baht gold card, which allows for affordable healthcare services. The deputy secretary general highlighted that if medications are collected too frequently, especially from clinics or emergency rooms during off-hours, it adds unnecessary pressure on medical staff who must prioritise more urgent cases. In response to this incident, the NHSO plans to collaborate with relevant healthcare service providers to gather comprehensive data and swiftly address any abnormalities. They are particularly focused on the distribution of nasal spray medication used to alleviate allergy symptoms, as highlighted in the news. If investigations confirm the sale of these medications, the NHSO intends to pursue legal action to the fullest extent. Atthaporn issued a stern warning to those involved in such activities or considering similar actions, emphasising the legal consequences and the harm inflicted on the national health insurance system, which serves as a crucial health safety net for all Thai citizens, reported KhaoSod. The NHSO urges anyone with relevant information to come forward, promising prompt action to rectify the situation. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-20

UPDATE: Koh Pha Ngan drug bust: Italian, French, Russian men arrested by Petch Petpailin Photo via Naewna Immigration Bureau officers yesterday launched a major operation into foreign drug traffickers on Koh Pha Ngan, an island in the southern province of Surat Thani, resulting in the arrest of Italian, French, and Russian suspects. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1346700-foreign-drug-trafficker-arrested-on-koh-phangan-with-money-laundering-operation-uncovered/#findComment-19458812

Koh Pha Ngan drug bust: Italian, French, Russian men arrested by Petch Petpailin Photo via Matichon Immigration Bureau officers yesterday launched a major operation into foreign drug traffickers on Koh Pha Ngan, an island in the southern province of Surat Thani, resulting in the arrest of Italian, French, and Russian suspects. Officers from the Immigration Bureau yesterday, December 19 arrested Koh Pha Ngan’s leading drug dealer, reported to be a 36 year old Italian man named Federico Carlo Eugenio Pistolesi. Investigators uncovered over 71 million baht in earnings from drug sales circulating through Pistolesi’s bank accounts. The arrest followed an earlier case involving an Englishman named Peter, who was apprehended on March 1. Peter was allegedly found buying drugs from Pistolesi, having transferred over 200,000 baht to the Italian man over the past year. Following Peter’s arrest, police conducted further investigations into Pistolesi’s operations. Evidence revealed that Pistolesi received substantial amounts of money from local retail drug dealers and users, ultimately leading to his capture yesterday. During the operation, police seized 24 pieces of evidence, including a bank account with 6.6 million baht in savings, 8 million baht worth of land, a sedan, and narcotics such as cocaine and magic mushrooms. Photo via Matichon Officers also discovered that Pistolesi was listed as the managing director of a real estate company. Police are now investigating whether the company was operating legally. Pistolesi faces three charges under Thailand’s Narcotics Control Act: * Section 145: Producing, importing, exporting, distributing, or possessing Category 1 narcotics. This carries a penalty of up to 15 years’ imprisonment and a fine of between 200,000 and 2 million baht. * Section 146: Producing, importing, exporting, distributing, or possessing Category 2 narcotics. This carries a penalty of up to 15 years’ imprisonment and a fine of between 200,000 and 1.5 million baht. * Section 123: Conspiring with two or more persons to commit a serious drug-related offence. This carries a penalty of up to five years’ imprisonment and a fine of up to 500,000 baht. Photo via Naewna In addition to Pistolesi, police arrested two foreign tourists who purchased drugs from him: a 37 year old Frenchman named Roman Malik Bertagnol and a 39 year old Russian man named Anton Zaoserov. According to Channel 7, Zaoserov owned a cleaning service company catering primarily to foreign owners of luxury villas on the island. A Thai woman, identified only as Meena, was found to act as a nominee to facilitate the illegal registration of Zaoserov’s company. Further investigations revealed that the cleaning service was a front for Zaoserov’s drug dealing operations. Koh Pha Ngan Police Station officers are now pursuing further inquiries into Zaoserov’s illegal activities. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-20

Thailand's New Year Traffic Safety Plan Launched File photo: ASEAN NOW As the New Year approaches, the Thai government is taking proactive measures to ensure the safety of its roads during this festive period, which often sees an uptick in travel and, unfortunately, traffic accidents. The Interior Ministry, under the leadership of Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, has unveiled a comprehensive plan aimed at reducing road accidents and promoting safer driving habits across the nation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346714-thailands-new-year-traffic-safety-plan-launched/

File photo: ASEAN NOW As the New Year approaches, the Thai government is taking proactive measures to ensure the safety of its roads during this festive period, which often sees an uptick in travel and, unfortunately, traffic accidents. The Interior Ministry, under the leadership of Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, has unveiled a comprehensive plan aimed at reducing road accidents and promoting safer driving habits across the nation. This campaign, part of the 2025 plan for accident prevention, seeks to address the most common causes of road accidents in Thailand: speeding, drink driving, and non-compliance with helmet laws. By targeting these critical issues, the plan aims to make Thai roads safer, particularly during times when traffic volume is at its peak. Central to this initiative is an increased awareness campaign directed at motorists. The government plans to implement a series of goals, indicators, and guidelines that relevant agencies can use to effectively prevent and reduce road accidents. The strategy involves enhancing traffic management systems, upgrading road conditions, and ensuring that vehicles are properly maintained to avoid accidents caused by mechanical failure. In anticipation of the upcoming New Year celebrations, the plan includes rigorous screenings of traffic from December 27th to January 5th. This period is earmarked for heightened vigilance on the nation's roads, with specific attention on enforcing laws against dangerous driving practices, especially drink driving, which has been a persistent issue. Additionally, the Ministry has committed to monitoring entertainment venues to ensure compliance with alcohol licensing laws. They will be checking that these establishments do not serve alcohol to underage patrons, as part of a broader effort to reduce the influence of alcohol on road safety. From December 1st to 19th, the ministry promoted awareness around these initiatives, and from December 20th to January 9th, the focus will be on rigorous implementation of accident reduction measures. These efforts are not only about enforcement but also about educating the public on the importance of road safety and responsible driving. Minister Anutin Charnvirakul emphasized the importance of collaboration among various stakeholders, including law enforcement, road users, and business operators, to ensure the success of this campaign. By working together, the goal is to make the festive season safer for everyone travelling within Thailand. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to improving road safety in Thailand, a nation that, despite its allure as a tourist destination, has long struggled with road traffic incidents. The success of this campaign could serve as a model for ongoing efforts to make Thailand’s roads safer throughout the year, reported The Nation. -- 2024-12-20

Pattaya's Dark Side: What You Won't Find in the Travel Brochures Picture courtesy: Freepik Nestled along the Gulf of Thailand, Pattaya charms millions with its buzzing nightlife, sun-drenched beaches, and an array of attractions. Yet, beneath this glittering facade lies a more troubling narrative that many tourists might not see. These hidden issues reveal both societal and environmental challenges that the city faces today. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346709-pattayas-dark-side-what-you-wont-find-in-the-travel-brochures/

Picture courtesy: Freepik Nestled along the Gulf of Thailand, Pattaya charms millions with its buzzing nightlife, sun-drenched beaches, and an array of attractions. Yet, beneath this glittering facade lies a more troubling narrative that many tourists might not see. These hidden issues reveal both societal and environmental challenges that the city faces today. Pattaya has long been infamous for its sex tourism industry. Go-go bars, massage parlours, and adult venues punctuate the cityscape, contributing significantly to the local economy. However, these establishments often operate in murky legal territories, leading to issues of human trafficking and sexual exploitation. The magnetic party aura of Pattaya can obscure the harsh realities faced by vulnerable individuals caught in this profit-driven industry. While violent crime is relatively rare, Pattaya does see its fair share of petty crimes and tourist scams. Visitors should be cautious of pickpocketing, inflated prices, and counterfeit goods, all of which can sour the holiday experience. More troubling are sporadic reports of street violence and altercations among inebriated tourists, which tarnish the city’s hospitable image. Pattaya’s beaches, once idyllic, now suffer from pollution and environmental neglect. Litter, waste, and occasional oil spills mar the coastline, despite ongoing clean-up efforts, reported Pattaya Mail. The surge in visitors coupled with rapid urban development has strained waste management, leading to long-term environmental damage. These factors threaten the very ecosystems that once drew tourists to the area. Pattaya’s success as a tourist hub has led to chronic overcrowding, particularly in high season. Visitors often face long queues, traffic jams, and inflated costs for services. The charm of local businesses and cultural sites is increasingly overshadowed by large resorts, malls, and chain establishments, which alter the city’s unique character. The city’s vibrant party scene is a significant draw for many tourists, yet it can encourage excessive drinking and drug use. Such behaviours present risks, not only to those indulging but also to the community at large. This party culture, while a financial boon, can create a precarious environment rife with potential hazards. Pattaya’s transformation from a quiet village to a metropolitan hotspot has reshaped the local way of life. Skyrocketing property prices and the influx of visitors have displaced residents and spurred inequality. While tourism fuels the city’s prosperity, those working in the service sector often grapple with inadequate wages and high living costs, highlighting a stark wealth divide. These hidden facets of Pattaya’s tourism story call for reflection and action from both visitors and local stakeholders. Acknowledging and addressing these issues could forge a path toward sustainable tourism practices that benefit both Pattaya’s residents and its visitors. The city’s allure as a tourist destination is enduring, but its future relies heavily on balancing economic interests with ethical, environmental, and social considerations. -- 2024-12-20

Lorry with missing wheel sparks safety fears on Phuket road (video) by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A video clip sparking safety concerns has taken social media by storm, showing a lorry missing a wheel and with a bulging tyre, driving along Thep Kasattri Road, in Thalang, Phuket. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346706-lorry-with-missing-wheel-sparks-safety-fears-on-phuket-road-video/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod by Puntid Tantivangphaisal A video clip sparking safety concerns has taken social media by storm, showing a lorry missing a wheel and with a bulging tyre, driving along Thep Kasattri Road, in Thalang, Phuket. Shared by a popular local social media page, the 27-second video amassed significant attention and stirred a variety of reactions online. The incident occurred on the outbound lane of Thep Kasattri Road, where a lorry belonging to a construction company was seen fully loaded with building materials. The person who recorded the video highlighted the perilous state of the vehicle, describing the situation as extremely dangerous. In the video, the individual can be heard saying, “The load is not light, this is very risky. One wheel is missing, and the other tyre looks like it’s about to burst. This tyre is full of holes.” Once shared, the clip quickly went viral, prompting a wave of comments and debates among netizens. Many expressed concerns about the safety implications of such a vehicle on the road. Some wondered if the driver was heading to a nearby shop, suggesting possible destinations at the Mueang Mai junction or another location near Maenick. “If there are remnants of the tyre, that’s more dangerous because they could fly off while driving. But if it’s just a missing wheel, there are still several wheels carrying the weight. “If the truck is empty, there’s no need to worry. Stay calm and don’t rush to judge.” Others took a more humorous approach. “Keep going as long as the materials haven’t reached the customer.” “The boss says it’s still usable.” Some even compared the situation to their own experiences. “It’s similar to my motorbike; the tyre is almost worn out.” Questions were raised about the driver’s maintenance habits. “Does the driver ever check the vehicle?” “It can still run, there are still 21 wheels left.” Phuket officials and local road safety advocates are likely to take this incident as a reminder of the crucial need for routine checks and adherence to vehicle safety regulations, reported KhaoSod. -- 2024-12-20

Malaysian and Thai Wife Arrested in 800 Million Baht Scam Case Picture courtesy: FM91 A Malaysian man and his Thai wife find themselves in custody, accused of orchestrating elaborate investment scams through deceptive mobile applications, leading to financial damages totalling a staggering 800 million baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346681-malaysian-and-thai-wife-arrested-in-800-million-baht-scam-case/

Malaysian-Thai Couple Arrested at Border for Money Laundering in ‘Ghost Company’ Scheme Picture courtesy of police. A Malaysian-Thai couple has been arrested at the Sadao Immigration checkpoint in Songkhla province on December 19, in connection with a large-scale money laundering operation linked to a “Ghost Company” scam. Mr. Lim, 38, a Malaysian national, and his Thai wife, Ms. Saowalak, were apprehended following criminal court warrants issued for their involvement in money laundering activities. The arrests were made at the Sadao Immigration checkpoint in Samnak Kham, Sadao district, after intelligence reports indicated Mr. Lim was planning to enter Thailand. The couple is believed to have played pivotal roles in a major fraud scheme involving the creation of fake applications “Nicshare” and “ComonApps,” which were used to deceive victims into investing in non-existent stock trading opportunities. Scammers impersonated reputable stock market figures to build trust with victims, resulting in financial damages exceeding 800 million baht ($23 million). Investigations have revealed that the couple was part of an extensive network, including both Thai and foreign nationals, that used shell companies to launder money. The total money circulation involved is estimated at 5 billion baht ($144 million). The criminal operation allegedly converted ill-gotten gains into digital currencies to conceal the origins of the funds. According to police, the couple’s involvement in the “Ghost Company” operation involved recruiting individuals to create legitimate companies that opened bank accounts, which were then sold to others for fraudulent use. The accounts were reportedly linked to illegal activities such as call center scams, online gambling, and other illicit businesses. Authorities issued arrest warrants for over 50 individuals connected to the fraud. Both Mr. Lim and Ms. Saowalak reportedly confessed to their roles in the operation, which spanned several ASEAN countries. This arrest follows a similar case earlier this month in Bangkok, where another Malaysian-Thai couple was apprehended for laundering money through gambling websites. Investigators noted a growing trend of foreign nationals marrying Thai citizens to gain legal business ownership rights, which are then exploited for money laundering purposes. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities tracking down additional suspects and analysing financial transactions linked to the scam. This case highlights the continued efforts by Thai law enforcement to combat large-scale financial crimes, particularly those involving cross-border criminal networks. -- 2024-12-20

Picture courtesy: FM91 A Malaysian man and his Thai wife find themselves in custody, accused of orchestrating elaborate investment scams through deceptive mobile applications, leading to financial damages totalling a staggering 800 million baht. On Thursday, the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) of Thailand announced the arrest of Lim Chin, 38, and his wife Saowalak. The couple was apprehended as they attempted to cross from Malaysia into Thailand's Songkhla province, specifically through the Sadao district. The operation at the Sadao border checkpoint on Kanchanawanit Road was prompted by numerous complaints from individuals who fell prey to investment scams. These scams gained traction through Facebook, where posts featured images of well-known financial experts, giving the schemes an undeserved air of legitimacy. Victims were enticed to download fraudulent mobile applications named "Nicshare" and "ComonApps." Initially, users saw returns on their investments, but these quickly evaporated, leaving many out of pocket. The CIB has already identified over 50 victims who suffered significant financial losses, contributing to the scam's massive 800 million baht damage estimate. Moreover, the investigation revealed the extent of the operation, with total transactions by the gang approximating 5 billion baht. Authorities indicate that Lim Chin played a pivotal role as a leader in the scam network, which included both Thai nationals and foreigners. He and Saowalak reportedly helped establish companies designed to open bank accounts under false pretences. These 'mule' accounts were then sold across Southeast Asia, feeding into broader networks involved in call centre scams, online gambling, and other nefarious activities. The CIB is aggressively pursuing justice, with arrest warrants issued for around 50 individuals believed to be connected to this extensive network. The crackdown has been ongoing over recent months, aiming to dismantle the scam ring comprehensively. As the investigation continues, this arrest highlights the persistent challenge of financial scams in the region and underscores the importance of vigilance among potential investors. With the authorities tightening their net, the hope is to prevent further exploitation and bring all involved parties to justice, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-20

Picture courtesy: Naew Na Thailand's economy is on a precipice, warns Kittiratt Na Ranong, who is poised to take the helm of the nation's central bank. Kittiratt, a veteran finance minister and stalwart of the Pheu Thai Party, believes that immediate and significant cuts to the country's interest rates are essential to stave off economic decline. Speaking at a seminar on Thursday, Kittiratt was emphatic in his message that current interest rates are excessively high. "This is how we prevent disaster," he asserted, reaffirming his long-standing position that lower rates would invigorate the Thai economy. While the government has yet to formally confirm Kittiratt's appointment as chairman of the Bank of Thailand's board, insiders suggest that it's all but certain. This potential appointment has stirred controversy, with critics fearing increased political manoeuvring within the independent institution. Concerns voiced by economists and former central bank governors focus on the integrity of monetary policy amidst such influences. Since Pheu Thai assumed power in September 2023, their administration has frequently clashed with the Bank of Thailand. The government's core criticism lies in interest rates they consider overly restrictive, limiting economic mobility. Kittiratt's previous tenure as finance minister under Yingluck Shinawatra (2012-14) was marked by similar conflicts with central bank leadership. His current remarks followed the central bank's decision to maintain the key interest rate at 2.25%, foregoing the anticipated cut many believed would bolster economic growth. Though the central bank's Monetary Policy Committee opted to hold rates steady after an unexpected cut in October, Kittiratt remains steadfast. He acknowledged the committee's rationale while hinting at economic relief that could follow a rate reduction. Regarding his expected new role, Kittiratt remained circumspect. While confident, he emphasised the limitations of the chairmanship. "If you trust in my ability to do a good job, I must fulfil expectations," he pledged, clarifying the role as primarily advisory rather than executive. The Board of Governors at the Bank of Thailand includes three deputy governors alongside four external experts, chosen by the board itself, a process influenced by the board chairman. When the current governor, Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput, steps down in September 2025, Kittiratt's influence on selecting his successor will be significant. Navigating these waters will require diplomacy and strategic foresight, balancing political objectives with economic stability, while engaging with concerned stakeholders wary of potential shifts in monetary policy dynamics. Kittiratt's approach to this delicate task could define his tenure and the economic trajectory of Thailand, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-20

UPDATE: Tourist Arrested in Fatal Jet Ski Incident at Phuket Beach A 25-year-old tourist, reported in the Thai media as being Austrian, has been arrested in connection with a fatal jet ski collision that claimed the life of a Russian swimmer at Karon Beach on December 17. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1346682-tourist-arrested-in-fatal-jet-ski-incident-at-phuket-beach/

Thai Medical Council Probes Ex-PM Thaksin's Extended Hospital Stay Picture courtesy: Naew Na The Medical Council of Thailand is scrutinising Police General Hospital over the former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's prolonged stay post-conviction, sparking questions about potential preferential treatment. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346653-thai-medical-council-probes-ex-pm-thaksins-extended-hospital-stay/

Phuket Police Profile Transgender Workers for Tourist Safety Boost File photo for reference only In an effort to enhance public safety along Bangla Road in Phuket, local police have started compiling profiles of transgender individuals working in the bustling nightlife district. This initiative aims to reduce tourist altercations and encourage locals to become informants for crime prevention. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346654-phuket-police-profile-transgender-workers-for-tourist-safety-boost/