Category Archives: exports

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Friday’s news-Sept 27

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7-Eleven Introduces PromptPay QR/Traffic Ticket Statute of Limitations/Report Traffic Violations for Cash/Critical brain conditions/Overflowing Ping River continues/Chiang Mai Hospital Floods/Nonthaburi residents warned of flooding/Bangkok and 10 provinces face flood threat/Korat faces water shortage/Roadside bomb injures eight/Foreigners behaving badly/Economy: To eradicate poverty in two years/Bt400 wage ‘cannot be derailed’/Cash handout to boost retail sector/Phase 2 of 10,000-baht handout/’No restrictions’ on handouts/Phuket’s sea gypsies swarm ATMs/Mortgage growth to plunge/Production index to decline/Strong baht barely dents exports/Clock’s ticking for Thai auto companies/Thai-Chinese high-speed railway/To maintain Thailand trade balance/Rayong land prices pushed up/Tourism: TAT’s ‘Amazing Thailand Passport Privileges’/Thailand Experience: Elephant camps transitioning to cruelty-free future/Lee Ayu Chuepa’s coffee revolution/Thailand’s best-loved tasty treats/Perfect 4 Days in Bangkok/Surging popularity of ‘Mo Lam’/Climate Thailand: AOT paving way to green airports/Green finance to tackle climate change/Hyundai to invest in EV production/Sustainable practices by beverage makers/Protecting Thailand’s coral reefs/International/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

7-Eleven Introduces Convenient PromptPay QR Code Payments Nationwide

7-Eleven now offers the option to scan and pay with PromptPay, making transactions more convenient by eliminating the need to carry cash. Customers can simply open the QR code on their mobile banking app and pay at any of the 480 participating branches nationwide.

With this new service, customers can easily pay for their purchases by scanning the PromptPay QR code at checkout. The system supports all major mobile banking apps. Continued …

Traffic Ticket Statute of Limitations Extended to Two Years

The Royal Thai Police have issued a reminder for all drivers regarding recent changes in traffic laws, which introduce two significant updates related to traffic fines. These changes, which took effect on Oct. 25, 2023, aim to ensure stricter enforcement of road safety regulations.

The first key change involves the extension of the statute of limitations for traffic tickets. With the new regulation, the statute of limitations has been extended to two years. The second change addresses the consequences for individuals who fail to pay their fines within the allotted time. Continued …

Report Traffic Violations for Cash Rewards, Say Thai Police

Police, alongside partner organizations, are offering cash rewards for citizens who capture traffic violations on video, as part of the “Volunteer Traffic Eyes” project. Total rewards exceed Bt50,000.

Yestersay, at the Sarasin Room of the Royal Thai Police Headquarters, Police Lt. Gen. Prachuap Wongsuk, assistant commissioner-general of the Royal Thai Police and acting deputy commissioner-general, announced the award recipients of the “Volunteer Traffic Eyes” project. Continued …

Critical brain conditions to watch out for

As we transition into an aging society, one of the biggest challenges for families with elderly members is dealing with the health issues that have accumulated over the years. While conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol are well-known, many are unaware of the increasing threat of degenerative brain disorders in the elderly.

Understanding these conditions is crucial for early detection, prevention, and effective management. This article introduces you to three major brain health threats that seniors face and offers guidance on how to recognize and combat them. Continued …

Overflowing Ping River continues to affect downtown Chiang Mai

The flooding triggered by the overflowing of the Ping River in Chiang Mai’s Mueang district is even worse than in 2011, according to a report. The surge in the river flooded residences and commercial zones in the district on Wednesday night, including San Pa Khoi Market and the Charoen Prathet and Night Bazaar neighborhoods.

At least 2,000 households were expected to be affected by the flooding, especially those in and around the Night Bazaar where water levels exceeded one meter. Street vendors struggled to keep their products out of the water, while small vehicles were unable to pass the section of road from Nong Hoi to Nawarat Bridge. Continued …

Chiang Mai Hospital Floods, Halts Non-Urgent Care

A sudden surge of floodwater inundated Chiang Mai last night, severely affecting Lanna 3 Hospital. Flood levels rose to between knee and waist height in Soi Sukkasem, compelling the hospital to halt non-urgent care until Monday.

This announcement came after floodwaters breached the hospital premises, reaching shin level in the parking lot and prompting immediate relocation of staff and vital medical equipment. Continued …

Nonthaburi residents warned of flooding as water levels increase

Residents in 30 communities across Nonthaburi province have been warned to brace for possible flooding today due to the rising level of water in the Chao Phraya River.

The Provincial Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Command Center cautioned that days of heavy rains in upper Thailand were necessitating the speeding up the release of water from the Chao Phraya dam. Continued …

Bangkok and 10 provinces face flood threat as dam increases water discharge

Eleven provinces in the Chao Phraya Basin, including metropolitan Bangkok, have been warned to prepare for possible flooding as the Chao Phraya Dam in Chai Nat province will increase its rate of water discharge.

The areas to be affected are communities located outside the flood levees along the banks of the Chao Phraya River in Uthai Thani, Chai Nat, Sing Buri, Ang Thong, Ayutthaya, Suphanburi, Lopburi, Pathum Thani, Nonthaburi, Samut Prakan, and Bangkok provinces. Continued …

Korat faces water shortage with all its reservoirs only half full

While several provinces in the north are suffering serious flooding, especially Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai, Nakhon Ratchasima in the northeast is facing a water shortage with all of its 27 reservoirs now less than half full.

For an example, Lamtakong reservoir, which is the main source of water for Mueang, Sung Noen, Si Khio, Kham Thalae So and Chalerm Phra Kiat, now contains 92.26 million cubic meters of water, 30.6% of its capacity. Of that, only 25.2% of the water is usable. Continued … 

Roadside bomb injures eight soldiers in Narathiwat

Eight soldiers sustained injuries in a roadside explosion in Rangae district, Narathiwat, believed to be orchestrated by insurgents. The incident took place when an improvised bomb, tied to a power pole along a local road in Ban Hulu Pare, tambon Tanyongmat, was detonated as a military pickup truck carrying the soldiers drove past.

The blast’s impact toppled the power pole and shattered the vehicle’s windshield and windows. The injured soldiers were promptly transported to Rangae Hospital for treatment. Continued … 

  • Polish Passenger Threatens to Bomb Plane Mid-air on Flight to Bangkok – Continued …
  • Thai Woman and Taiwanese Man Rescued from Vietnamese Gang – Continued …
  • Chinese National Arrested for International Drug Trafficking – Continued …
  • Laem Chabang: Thai customs seize 1.4 tons of cannabis – Continued …
  • CIB nabs Chinese Starlink scammer in Bangkok condo bust – Continued …
  • Korean Overstayer in Thailand Revealed as $226K Fraud Fugitive – Continued …

Thailand aims to eradicate poverty in two years

Thailand aims to eradicate poverty and build a prosperous economy within the remainder of the current prime minister’s term, an adviser to PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra revealed.

With just over two years left in office, the prime minister is determined to ensure that Thais can rise above poverty, stated Surapong Suebwonglee, deputy chairman of the five-member advisory panel appointed by PM Paetongtarn. Continued …

Bt400 daily wage plan ‘cannot be derailed’

Labor Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn has insisted the 400-baht daily minimum wage must take effect on Oct. 1 as planned, despite the failure of the national wage committee to endorse it yet.

Sia Champhathong, an MP with the opposition People’s Party, asked the minister on Thursday in the House whether the adjournments of two recent meetings of the committee were the government’s way to avoid addressing the issue. Continued …

Cash handout will give retail sector temporary boost

Wholesalers and retailers across Thailand say they are optimistic that the government’s 10,000-baht cash handout, part of the digital wallet scheme for vulnerable groups, will provide a short-term boost to the country’s retail sector.

Industry experts predict the initiative will stimulate consumption and increase spending by 10%-15% this year. However, concerns have been raised about the possibility of recipients spending the money on non-essential items. Continued …

Phase 2 of 10,000-baht handout may be paid in installments

Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat admitted on Thursday that it remains uncertain whether the government will have enough money to distribute the second round of the 10,000-baht handout in one go.

Julapun said that if the budget were insufficient, the payment would need to be divided into two installments of 5,000 baht each. The second phase of the spending stimulus handout will use the digital wallet system, after the first-phase payment was remitted in cash to recipients’ bank accounts. Continued …

‘No restrictions’ on handouts

Recipients of the 10,000-baht handout can spend the money on anything they see fit, including paying off their debts, according to Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai.

Phumtham was responding to reports that said many people who are eligible to receive the handout in the first phase of the scheme, which officially began on Wednesday, are planning to use it to help clear their debts. Continued …

Phuket’s sea gypsies swarm ATMs for 10k baht handout

Hundreds of sea gypsies in Phuket flocked to ATMs at Laem Tukkae, Koh Sirey, Ratsada subdistrict on Wednesday as part of the Thai government’s 10,000-baht handout scheme for vulnerable citizens. The scheme, aimed at state welfare cardholders and disabled individuals, is part of a broader economic stimulus program.

A national report noted that the sea gypsies, still referred to as Thai Mai or New Thais, were seen eagerly withdrawing funds from ATMs early in the morning to cover essential expenses. The report also highlighted how Phuket Town saw a spike in ATM usage, as recipients hurried to access their cash. Continued …

Mortgage growth forecast to plunge

Kasikorn Research Center (K-Research) expects 1.2% growth in mortgages within the commercial banking sector this year, the lowest level of expansion in 23 years. The low rate is attributed to the diminished purchasing power of home buyers.

In the second quarter of 2024, commercial banks booked marginal year-on-year growth of 0.8% in mortgage loans, down from 1% the previous quarter, said Kanjana Chockpisansin, head of banking and financial sector research at K-Research. Continued …

Production index projected to decline 1% in 2024

Thailand’s Manufacturing Production Index (MPI) is likely to contract by 1% this year, given the declines recorded during the first eight months of the year, caused by a raft of economic problems and the impact of severe floods, says the Office of Industrial Economics (OIE).

The best-case scenario for MPI growth is a flat reading, said OIE Director-general Warawan Chitaroon. The office previously downgraded its MPI growth projection for 2024 from a range of 2%-3% to 0-1%. It revised down the range again on Thursday to between -1% and 0. Continued …

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Strong baht barely dents Thai exports

Related strengthening of Asian currencies against the dollar has limited any adverse impact on Thailand’s exports as the baht appreciates rapidly, reducing the urgency for the Bank of Thailand to quickly adjust interest rates, say analysts.

Merchandise exports gained momentum, surging 7% year-on-year and 1.8% month-on-month to US$26.2 billion in August, beating the consensus of 5.8%, according to Kuala Lumpur-based Maybank. Continued …

Clock’s ticking for Thai auto companies in fast-changing market

Thai automotive suppliers and Japanese automakers have around four years to prepare for intense competition from Chinese auto companies, automotive manufacturer Thai Summit Group said on Thursday.

According to a news report by Nikkei Asia, sales of Japanese automaker Toyota Motor in Thailand dropped by 15% in the first half of this year despite its 38% market share in the country. On the other hand, sales of Chinese automaker BYD Auto in Thailand has risen by 32% in the first half of this year. Continued …

First phase of Thai-Chinese high-speed railway to be completed by 2028

Thailand Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit said the first phase of the Thai-Chinese high-speed rail would be completed in 2028, while asking for the Chinese government’s support to ensure smooth transportation.

He made this remark at the opening ceremony of the “Global Sustainable Transport Forum 2024” in Beijing on Wednesday. Suriya said the first phase of the Thai-Chinese high-speed rail from Bangkok to Nakhon Ratchasima was 35% complete, and was expected to be ready in the next four years. Continued …

China vows to maintain Thailand trade balance

China has pledged to maintain its trade balance with Thailand, reducing the latter’s trade deficit by purchasing more agricultural products and supporting Thai small businesses accessing Chinese e-commerce platforms.

Following a meeting on trade cooperation with Chinese Ambassador Han Zhiqiang yesterday at the Commerce Ministry, Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan said the Chinese embassy addressed concerns regarding the influx of cheap, substandard goods. Continued …

Rayong land prices pushed up by Chinese

Chinese investor demand for industrial land propelled Rayong’s vacant land price index to the highest growth rate among the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) provinces in the second quarter of 2024.

Vichai Viratkapan, acting director-general of the Real Estate Information Center (REIC), said many Chinese investors acquired land in Rayong’s industrial zones to build electric vehicle plants and related industries such as battery production. Continued …

TAT entices foreign tourists with ‘Amazing Thailand Passport Privileges’

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is offering visitors with experiences in shopping and enjoying tourism services in the kingdom under the “Amazing Thailand Passport Privileges” project, which will run between Nov. 1 and Dec. 16.

Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT overnor, said, “In response to the government’s tourism stimulus policy, TAT is continuously implementing strategies and promotions to stimulate tourism recovery. Emphasis is placed on boosting tourist spending, especially in the Hidden Gem Cities. In this connection, the Amazing Thailand Passport Privileges project is aimed to boost foreign arrivals to achieve this year’s target of 36.7 million visitors.” Continued …

How Thailand’s elephant camps are transitioning to a cruelty-free future

“This herb is excellent at clearing up hemorrhoids,” explains Atichart Chatpisitchaikul, or “Tong”, my guide at the ChangChill elephant camp in the hill country outside of Chiang Mai in northern Thailand.

My fellow trekkers and I glance down at the mountainous pile of poop at our feet and wrinkle our noses in unison before Tong pushes on up the hill and we follow behind, bamboo trekking poles helping to speed our ascent to the top of the slippery slope. Continued …

From hill tribe to the global stage: Lee Ayu Chuepa’s coffee revolution

In the lush hills of northern Thailand, a remarkable story of perseverance and social entrepreneurship is brewing. Lee Ayu Chuepa, once a young boy from the remote Mae Chan Tai community in Chiang Rai province, has transformed not only his own life but also the fortunes of his community through the power of coffee.

Thirty years ago, Lee’s daily routine involved a grueling 8-kilometer round trip on foot just to attend school in a neighboring village. Barely able to speak Thai, he faced challenges that would daunt most adults, let alone a child. It was precisely these hardships that forged Lee’s indomitable spirit and unwavering determination. Continued …

Thailand’s best-loved tasty treats

Specialities from Bangkok and elsewhere in Thailand were officially recognized on Thursday in a bid to preserve local foods and promote them internationally. Culture Minister Sudawan Wangsupakitkosol said the Department of Cultural Promotion, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration and 76 provincial agencies had invited the public to vote for their specialities.

As many as 563 tasty treats were selected for the voting, which was held from Aug. 1-9. They included 234 savouries, 184 desserts, 143 appetizers and two other foods. “Each reflects the culture and local life of each province,” she said. Continued …

The Perfect 4 Days in Bangkok, According to Locals

Bangkok has long been as vibrant and alive as it gets — and the metropolis of almost 11 million people is always reinventing itself. “I would explain it as a revival,” says thirty-something native Mook Attakanwong, owner of multidisciplinary gallery, shop, and events space ATT 19. “I feel like this is the real beginning in terms of a lot more expansion in understanding of art, music, and food.”

Colorful Thai culture and festivals are dependably exciting here, and food seems as much a religion as the dominant Buddhism. “There’s no other place in the world that has such good food,” insists Natty Wongphanlert, owner and general manager of the plush boutique 137 Pillars Suites & Residences Bangkok. Continued …

Surging popularity of ‘Mo Lam’ offers numerous economic opportunities

The fan power of “Mo Lam” – Isaan folk singers – represents an untapped treasure for businesses, as their fans are among the most affluent and willing to spend up to 50,000 baht daily on their favorite artists, according to a survey released on Wednesday.

Conducted by over 60 staff from “MI Learn Lab” under the Media Intelligence Group, the survey explored consumer behavior related to Mo Lam fandom across five northeast provinces: Udon Thani, Khon Kaen, Roi Et, Ubon Ratchathani, and Maha Sarakham, involving 614 participants aged 10 to 60. Continued …

AOT unveils 4-point strategy, paving way to green airports

The Airports of Thailand (AOT) has unveiled a strategy to transform six international airports under its management into “green” airports, in line with the country’s net zero emission policy. The AOT manages Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, Mae Fah Luang, Phuket and Hat Yai airports, which account for 95% of domestic and international flights.

The strategy for green airports focuses on four main aspects: Connectivity, system integration, sustainability, and airport size, Jakkraphob Jarassri, AOT’s chief adviser for engineering and construction, said. Continued …

ADB urges Thailand to adopt green finance to tackle climate change

Thailand must accelerate its economic restructuring to effectively tackle climate change, Anuch Metha, director of the Asian Development Bank’s Thailand office in Thailand, told participants of the “Road to Net Zero 2024: The Extraordinary Green” seminar organized by Thansettakij on Wednesday.

Metha emphasized the need for a financial system that supports the green economy in light of the climate challenges facing Thailand and the broader Asia-Pacific region, including unpredictable weather patterns leading to floods and other natural disasters. Continued …

Hyundai to invest in EV production and infrastructure development

Hyundai Mobility Thailand (HMT) has announced it will invest 1 billion baht to enhance its presence and contribute to the growth of Thailand’s electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem, its CEO Jae Gyou Chung said on Thursday.

Approved by the Board of Investment for Hyundai Mobility Manufacturing (Thailand), this initiative focuses on boosting local EV production and infrastructure development. Continued …

Tetra Pak calls for sustainable practices by food and beverage makers

Tetra Pak, a global leader in processing and packaging solutions, has called on Thai companies to adopt more sustainable practices to align with international regulations.

This call to action came during a webinar on Thursday titled“Future-Ready Business with Tetra Pak Sustainable Solutions”, which aimed to highlight the necessity of sustainable practices for food and beverage manufacturers in Thailand. Continued …

Protecting Thailand’s coral reefs and ecosystem from sunscreen threat

Thailand’s stunning coral reefs are not just a national treasure but also a crucial part of the global marine ecosystem. Unfortunately, these vibrant underwater landscapes are under increasing threat.

While climate change and pollution often get the most attention, there’s another hidden danger lurking beneath the surface: chemical sunscreens. Sunscreens that include ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate are highly toxic to coral reefs. Although these chemicals have been banned in Thailand, other harmful ingredients such as avobenzone and octocrylene remain in many sunscreens. Continued …

Israel rejects cease-fire talks, keeps up attacks in Lebanon

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed the military would maintain its bombardment of Hezbollah targets in Lebanon indefinitely, undermining efforts by the United States and allies to secure a cease-fire that would ease the risk of a regional war. Continued …

Van Gogh painting auctioned for $27.6 million

There were few fireworks at the inaugural evening sale of 20th and 21st century art at Christie’s new Asia headquarters in Hong Kong on Thursday, as the economic malaise that has cast a pall over the art market in the past two years continues to make itself felt. Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule Sept 21-Oct 26

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

  • Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
  • Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
  • Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
  • Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
  • Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586
baht, bangkok, chiang mai, exports, hospitality, hua hin, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, solar, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thailand, thailand festivals, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s news-Sept 26

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4 Hua Hin hotels receive Michelin Guide awards/Pranburi Mini-Balloon Festival/43 Thailand provinces brace for deluge/Floodwaters Match 2011 Levels/Chiang Mai Floods/Lampang and Sukhothai under water/Tourists evacuated from Mae Hong Son resorts/Crocodile farm owner kills breeding stock/Domestic gold prices/Economy: Economic toll from flooding/10,000-baht disbursement started/To create ‘economic whirlwind’/Elderly Woman in Tears/Needy, disabled delighted/Thais seek extra income/Ease of doing business drops/Rising demand for food/Industrial estate woos investors/Minister urges action on rising baht/Strong baht harms Thai economy/Thai condo market slows/Tourism: Suvarnabhumi to open 3rd runway/Dimmer prospects for China arrivals/Phuket’s tourism boom/Police launch raids on Phuket’s Bangla Road/Thailand Experience: Flavorful journey to Thai wellness/Bangkok’s new street food paradise/Yi Peng Lantern Festival/Cheerful mist at Ban E-Tong/Climate Thailand: Indigenous people defend traditional farming/25-Year Solar Power Agreements/Sustainable island tourism/International/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

4 Hua Hin hotels receive Michelin Guide awards

Yesterday, the MICHELIN Guide revealed the brand new One, Two, and Three Key distinctions for the most outstanding hotels in Thailand.

The MICHELIN Guide now includes over 5,000 hotels across the world, and not a single one is simply a room for the night. These are places that significantly add to your experience as a traveler, each vetted and judged excellent in five categories: architecture and interior design, quality and consistency of service, overall personality and character, value for the price, and a significant contribution to the guest experience in a particular setting.

The One Key Hotels in Hua Hin

Veranda Resort & Villas Hua Hin Cha Am
  • Anantara Hua Hin Resort & Spa
  • The Standard Hua Hin
  • V Villas Hua Hin
  • Aleenta Resort & Spa, Hua-Hin Continued …

Pranburi Mini-Balloon Festival this weekend

Continued …

43 Thailand provinces brace for a deluge of trouble

Weather forecasts predict heavy rain across 43 provinces tomorrow, raising concerns about flash floods and forest runoff, especially in low-lying and mountainous areas.

The southern region’s eastern coast will have 60% of the area experiencing thunderstorms and heavy rain in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Songkhla, Yala, and Narathiwat. Continued …

Floodwaters Match 2011 Levels, but a Disaster Is Unlikely: Deputy PM

Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has assured the public that despite this year’s rainfall and floodwaters being on par with 2011’s catastrophic floods, a disaster of similar scale is not anticipated. Speaking yesterday, Anutin noted that although Thailand is also impacted by water released from neighboring countries, manageable measures are being undertaken to mitigate potential flooding impacts.

Residents in flood-prone areas, such as Bangkok, have been reassured that the devastating floods of 2011, which saw parts of the capital severely inundated and numerous roads turning into canals, are unlikely to recur. The 2011 floods remain the most damaging in Thailand’s history. Continued …

Chiang Mai City: Floods Expected to Surpass 2011 Levels

The flooding in Chiang Mai continues to worsen as the Ping River reaches record-breaking levels. As of 9pm last night, the water level in the city of Chiang Mai had risen to 4.83 meters, surpassing the 2022 flood level. Authorities expect the level to climb above 5.10 meters, exceeding the 2011 flood levels.

Reports from Chiang Mai indicate that the situation remains critical, as new floodwaters from Mae Taeng District have reached the city. The flooding has expanded, inundating major economic areas such as the Night Bazaar, San Pa Khoi Market, and parts of the Chiang Mai-Lamphun Road, with water depths ranging from 50 to 100 cm. The flood levels are expected to rise further. Continued …

More of Lampang and Sukhothai disappear under floodwater

More areas in the northern provinces of Lampang and Sukhothai are now flooded. Residents have been moving their belongings to higher ground and are avoiding flooded routes as advised.

In Lampang, especially high water levels were seen in the Na Saeng subdistrict of Koh Ka district. Due to the overflow of the Wang River, the floodwater has reached the Eastern Ban Na Kaew Bridge, the main route across the river to Serm Ngam district, resulting in transport difficulties. Continued …

Tourists evacuated from Mae Hong Son resorts as the Pai River overflows

The overflowing Pai River inundated several resorts in Mae Hong Son’s Pai district in the early hours of Wednesday, as officials rushed to rescue villagers and tourists to safety.

Affected resorts include Pai Riverside Golden Hut, Canary Guesthouse, and Pai Nai Fun, which are located on the banks of the river, Pai District Chief Anek Panthayom said on Wednesday. Continued …

Crocodile farm owner reveals ‘devastating decision’ to cull breeding stock

A crocodile farm owner in Lamphun province has made the heartbreaking decision to cull 125 of his breeding crocodiles due to severe flooding that has compromised the safety of both the animals and the surrounding community.

Heavy rains have caused significant damage to the earthen walls of the farm’s wells, creating a dangerous situation for the crocodiles. Despite his best efforts to reinforce the wells, the risk of a breach and subsequent escape of the crocodiles became too great. Continued …

Domestic gold prices head for new high

Domestic gold prices are on course to surpass the previous high of 42,150 baht per baht-weight (15.2 grams) as global prices stayed near an all-time high, approaching $2,700 an ounce, say local traders.

Domestic prices surged 200 baht to 41,100 baht for gold bar early Wednesday as bullion gained 0.3% to top $2,665 an ounce, eclipsing the previous record posted on Tuesday following a report showing U.S. consumer confidence this month fell the most in three years. Continued …

Economic toll from flooding in Thailand estimated at Bt242 billion

The severe flooding that has gripped much of northern and northeastern Thailand is taking a heavy toll on the country’s economy, with the Thai Chamber of Commerce estimating damages at over 242 billion baht.

The flooding, exacerbated by the El Niño and La Niña weather patterns, has disrupted agriculture, fisheries, livestock, and business sectors across the affected regions. The chamber has identified Chiang Rai, Phayao, Sukhothai, Nong Khai, and Nakhon Phanom as the provinces hit hardest by the floods. Continued …

First phase of 10,000-baht disbursement started

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra presided over the handing out of 10,000-baht to the first group of recipients on Wednesday morning and pledged to hold the second and third phases soon. In a ceremony held at the Government House, Paetongtarn pressed a mock button to gesture the start of the remittance of the economic stimulus money to the first group of recipients.

However, actual transfers by commercial and government-run banks had reportedly been completed at 5am. Some banks even started the transfers shortly after 1am. For instance, Kasikorn Bank reportedly began the transfers at 1.12am and the Government Savings Bank at 1.50 am. Continued …

Handout to create ‘economic whirlwind’

The government has vowed to proceed with the second and third phases of its economic stimulus handout scheme after the official launch of the first phase yesterday.

“The payment system for the second and third phases is being developed. The Finance Ministry will provide details later,” said Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra during an event to mark the program’s start at Government House on Wednesday. Continued …

Elderly Woman in Tears at ATM: Receives 10,000 Baht to Support Family

A 64-year-old woman from Buriram broke down in tears of joy at an ATM after receiving 10,000 baht from the digital wallet program. She shared her struggles in caring for her three disabled siblings and three school-age grandchildren, relying on a meager income from pensions and government assistance, which includes a monthly 300-baht welfare card.

Yesterday at the Agricultural Bank in Buriram, vulnerable groups, including people with disabilities and those with welfare cards ending in zero, were lined up to check and withdraw funds from the 10,000-baht digital program. Continued …

Needy, disabled delighted as Bt10,000 handout begins

Needy and disabled people were delighted to see 10,000 baht deposited into their bank accounts on Wednesday under the government’s cash handout scheme, but not all those eligible received the money on the first day.

In Nakhon Ratchasima, people were seen queuing at ATMs to check their accounts and withdraw the cash at branches of the Government Savings Bank and Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives in Phimai district on Wednesday morning. Continued … 

Thais seek extra income as consumer costs spike

Rising costs are causing 84% of Thai consumers to seek extra income to ensure their financial resilience, according to NielsenIQ’s Mid-Year Thailand Consumer Outlook. Thai consumer behaviour has shifted significantly as households navigate economic uncertainty and escalating living costs.

However, 29% of consumers report improvements in their financial positions since January 2024, up from 24%, while 35% feel their financial position has worsened, an uptrend from 48% earlier in the year. Continued …

Thailand’s ease of doing business drops again, now 12th in Asia-Pacific

Thailand fell three places from 2022 to 12th among Asia-Pacific nations in terms of ease of doing business, according to a survey by the Asia Securities Industry and Financial Markets Assn. (ASIFMA).

Among the 13 economies ranked in 2023, Singapore was in first place with an average score of 7.67, retaining its top position from the previous year. In second place was Hong Kong (7.38), followed by Australia (7.16) and Taiwan (6.61). Continued …

Rising demand for food pushes up exports

Exports in August expanded by 7% as demand grew for Thai agricultural and food products, thanks to the increased purchasing power of trading partners.

Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, director-general of the Trade Policy and Strategy Office, said exports in August increased by 7% to US$26.2 billion (940 billion baht), driven by demand for agricultural and agro-industrial products, as well as industrial products, supported by global climate fluctuations and the recovery of the service sector in key markets. Continued …

Thai industrial estate authority woos investors from China

The Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT) is actively promoting Thailand as an attractive investment destination for Chinese businesses, emphasizing the country’s strong infrastructure, skilled workforce, and pro-business policies.

During a recent investment promotion event in Shenzhen under the campaign “Now Thailand – The Golden Era”, IEAT Chairman Yuthasak Supasorn highlighted Thailand’s potential as an investment hub and underscored the long-standing relationship between the two countries. Continued …

Finance minister urges action on rising Thai baht, high policy rate

Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira has expressed concerns about the strengthening baht and the current policy interest rate, which he says is too high. Pichai, who doubles as deputy PM, said on Wednesday that a stronger currency will hurt Thailand’s competitiveness in exports against other nations in the region.

The baht has appreciated to 36.23 baht against the U.S. dollar, the highest in 19 months. This, he said, was influenced by the U.S. Federal Reserve System’s decision to reduce its policy interest rate, and it has signaled it will further cut the rate by 0.75% soon. Continued …

Economists and exporters agree strong baht harms Thai economy

A strong Thai baht against the U.S. dollar does more harm than good to the Thai economy, according to the opinions of three economists and rice exporters.

Dr. Naris Sathapholdeja, chief of the Data and Analytics Group of TMB Thanachart Bank, said that the strengthening of the Thai baht against other currencies in this region makes both exports from Thailand and tourist visits to Thailand more expensive. Continued …

Thai condo market slows amid withdrawal of Chinese and Russian investments

The Thai condominium market is experiencing a significant slowdown due to the withdrawal of Chinese and Russian capital. In recent years, Chinese and Russian investors have dominated the condominium market in Thailand, particularly in cities like Bangkok and Pattaya.

According to data from the Real Estate Information Center (REIC), in 2023, Chinese buyers acquired 6,614 units, representing 46% of total foreign sales, while Russians purchased 1,260 units. However, the situation has drastically changed in 2024. Continued …

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Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport to open its 3rd runway on Nov 1

Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi International Airport will open its third runway on Nov. 1, allowing the airport to handle many more flights, the director of the Airports of Thailand (AOT) said.

Kirati Kijmanawat, AOT director, said on Wednesday that the runway is complete and test runs on landing and take-offs have been conducted under the endorsement of the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand and the Aeronautical Radio of Thailand. Continued …

Dimmer prospects for China arrivals during Golden Week

The flow of Chinese tourists during the Golden Week holiday next week might be weaker than expected, as a strong baht and the mainland’s sluggish economy limit tourist expenditure, while other foreign arrivals start to bargain for lower services prices.

Thanet Supornsahasrungsi, president of the Association of Chonburi Tourism Federation, said if the baht continues to appreciate against most currencies, it will be bad for tourism. Continued … 

Phuket’s tourism boom set to break records this year

After a rocky few years post-Covid, Phuket is poised to smash its highest-ever revenue records in 2024, even if tourist numbers don’t quite hit pre-pandemic levels.

Longer stays, higher spending and a shift in visitor profiles are key to this tourism boom, according to Rangsiman Kingkaew, vice president of strategy and planning at the Phuket Tourist Assn. (PTA). Speaking at a press conference led by Phuket Gov. Sophon Suwannarat, Rangsiman outlined the private sector’s ambitious strategy to drive tourism back to its peak. Continued …

Police launch raids on popular nightlife venues on Phuket’s Bangla Road

In a move to clean up the streets of Patong, police and health officials are back in action, targeting Bangla Road’s nightlife hotspots with surprise drug tests. The high-stakes operation saw staff at multiple entertainment venues undergo random tests, aiming to ensure drug-free working environments in the heart of Phuket’s party scene.

This crackdown, part of the third phase of a wider crime prevention campaign by Region 8 Police, falls under the banner “Protect the people, suppress dangers, be modern, and care for the people.” Their focus is to ensure that popular entertainment venues are drug-free through random urine tests as part of the White Entertainment Venue Project. Continued …

A flavorful journey to Thai wellness

Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a wellness seeker, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) invites you to embark on a journey with “Wellness On A Plate”. Discover the magic of Thai cuisine in new light and in a place where delectable flavors meet unparalleled nutritional benefits.

Thai food is a treasure trove of health benefits, packed with natural ingredients and herbs. The “Wellness On A Plate” journey unveils the secrets of Thai culinary wisdom, offering a holistic approach to wellness that nourishes both body and soul. Continued …

Banthat Thong: Bangkok’s new street food paradise

Banthat Thong, Bangkok’s new trending landmark, has transformed from a neighborhood known for clothing, sports equipment and car accessories into a street food hub, earning the nickname Yaowarat (Chinatown) 2. The area now bustles with popular food stalls, offering a variety of savory and sweet treats.

After the Covid-19 pandemic, Banthat Thong benefited from Chinatown’s overcrowding and a revamp by the Chulalongkorn University Property Management Office, which filled the neighborhood with food options. As a result, tourists are now flocking to this vibrant street to sample its delicious fare. Continued … 

Why You Should Attend The Yi Peng Lantern Festival In Thailand

If you are looking for something interesting to do for your November break, here is a suggestion: head out to Thailand to experience the enchanting Yi Peng Lantern Festival. Also known as Yee Peng, it is celebrated primarily in northern Thailand, with Chiang Mai being the focal point of this breathtaking spectacle.

Picture thousands of radiant lanterns gracefully ascending into the night sky, creating an awe-inspiring display above the city. Save the date for Nov. 15-16 to witness this religious and cultural celebration that will leave you spellbound. It’s a time to pay homage to the Buddha, seek good fortune and wisdom, and release lanterns into the starry night. Continued …

Playful rain, cheerful mist at Ban E-Tong

As soon as we arrived at Ban E-Tong, a small village in Kanchanaburi province, in the late afternoon, everyone found themselves in a kingdom engulfed by mist. The familiar scenes were almost entirely swallowed up. We willingly stepped out of the car, humbly embracing the clarity of the season.

The journey, more than 300 kilometers from Bangkok, felt longer. Although the M81 motorway has begun trial service, significantly reducing travel time, once we reached Thong Pha Phum district, we still had to drive another 70km up the mountain to Ban E-Tong. The narrow, winding road with 399 curves requires extra caution, especially during the rainy season. Continued …

Indigenous people defend traditional farming in northern Thailand

The Thailand’s Pwo Karen of Ban Mae San have prospered in harmony with nature, upholding their traditional agricultural practices and rich cultural heritage for over 300 years. However, government measures are now putting their way of life at risk.

In recent years, between January and April, residents of Bangkok and northern Thailand have struggled to breathe due to high levels of pollution in the air. As the air quality index can reach 150 and even 200 AQI during these months — levels deemed unsafe for humans — anti-pollution masks have become essential. In response, the government has scrambled to provide explanations and solutions. Continued …

B.Grimm Power Secures 25-Year Solar Power Agreements With EGAT And PEA

B.Grimm Power Public Co. (B.Grimm Power) has signed 25-year power purchase agreements (PPAs) with the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) and the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) through its subsidiaries and joint ventures. The agreements cover eight companies and represent a combined total contracted capacity of 323.3 megawatts (MW) for solar farm projects.

The scheduled commercial operation dates (SCOD) for these projects will span from 2026 to 2030, contributing to Thailand’s renewable energy goals. This initiative aligns with B.Grimm Power’s “GreenLeap-Global and Green Strategy,” which aims to support the rapidly evolving energy markets and help Thailand meet its net-zero greenhouse gas emissions target by 2065. Continued …

Phuket hosts forum on sustainable island tourism

Sustainable tourism plays an important role in strengthening local communities, especially in the face of climate-induced emergencies such as floods and storms that have affected Phuket, Gov. Sophon Suwannarat said on Wednesday.

He made the comment at the opening of the 25th Inter-Islands Tourism Policy (ITOP) Forum, which is running until Friday at the Pullman Phuket Karon Beach Resort. Continued …

SpaceX plans $15-billion investment in Vietnam

Elon Musk’s SpaceX plans to invest $15 billion in Vietnam, the Vietnamese government said today. The statement came after a meeting in New York between Vietnamese President To Lam and Tim Hughes, SpaceX’s senior vice president for global business and government affairs. Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule Sept 21-Oct 26

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

  • Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
  • Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
  • Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
  • Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
  • Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586
baht, chiang mai, exports, healthcare, hospitality, hua hin, immigration, pattaya, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Wednesday’s news-Sept 25

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Best resort in Hua Hin for royal heritage/Why are pork prices so high?/North flood damage bill/Flood alert for Chiang Mai/Pit Bull Kills Woman/Healthcare finances sound/Private hospitals may opt out/Same-Sex Marriage Legalized/Man behind Moo Deng’s stardom/Foreigners behaving badly/Economy: 3 million to get handout funds/10,000-Baht Grant Delayed/Vehicle production, sales plummet/Thailand’s halal industry/US shopping platforms expanding/Tourism: Threat to Booming Tourism?/Automated Entry System Delayed/93 countries will require ETA/Eateries applaud co-payment scheme/Airport expansions and upgrades/China’s Golden Week holiday/Tax proposal gains support/Thailand Experience: Visit Thailand during the off-season/Most Comforting Breakfast/10 bangin’ bites in Bangkok/Climate Thailand: Bt7.12 billion for EV subsidies/International/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Laksasubha Hua Hin – the best resort in Hua Hin for royal heritage

Depending on what you’re looking for in a stay, there are many contenders for the mantle of best resort in Hua Hin. If it happens to be a proud royal heritage and an always-welcome touch of personal service from none other than the owners themselves, then the best resort in Hua Hin is Laksasubha Hua Hin.

The Hua Hin resort enjoys a picturesque beachfront location, while also being a short walk from nearby restaurants and bars, night market, shops, and nightlife. It’s an ideal choice for families, couples and single travelers looking for a slice of tropical paradise. Continued … 

Commerce Ministry to explore why pork prices are so high

The Commerce Ministry is inspecting pork prices nationwide in a bid to reduce expenses for Thai consumers and boost the competitiveness of producers.

Ministry spokesperson Wittayakorn Maneenetr said on Tuesday that the decision was taken after Thailand’s pork price was found to be higher than in other countries. The ministry’s Department of Internal Trade (DIT) has been tasked to collaborate with relevant agencies on seeking ways to ensure fairness among producers and consumers, he said. Continued …

North flood damage bill put at Bt3 billion

The government has estimated the total damage from the floods in the north to be about 3 billion baht. Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat said yesterday that the inundation in the north caused significant damage due to flash flooding.

The Office of the National Economic and Social Development Council initially estimated that the flood in the north had caused damage of about 3 billion baht, he said. Julapun said the damage had not spread widely enough to affect this year’s economic growth significantly. Continued …

Imminent-flood alert for Chiang Mai city

People living along the riverside in Chiang Mai are being strongly advised to move their belongings, including vehicles, to high ground as the Ping River was rising rapidly and expected to flood into the city on Tuesday night.

The Ping water level could reach the crisis point as early as 5pm. Tambon Nong Hoi and tambon Pa Dat were most at risk as the low terrain makes them prone to flooding, the municipal office said. Continued …

Pit Bull Attacks & Kills 67-Year-Old Woman Cycling in Pathum Thani

A 67-year-old woman in Pathum Thani was fatally attacked by a Pit Bull while cycling near her home in Chiang Rak Noi, Sam Khok District. The woman was found with severe bite wounds over most of her body. Despite efforts by emergency responders to revive her, she was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police and rescue teams responded to the incident following a report from the Sam Khok Police Station. The aggressive dog, named Poikae, reportedly belonged to a nearby resident, who kept it with six other dogs. Continued …

Universal healthcare finances sound, says minister

The Ministry of Public Health says the universal healthcare program will not experience any financial problems, according to minister Somsak Thepsutin.

The government approved a central budget of 5.9 billion baht for the scheme for the fiscal year ending Sept. 30, Somsak said on Tuesday following a meeting of the National Health Security Board. Participants discussed proposals for disbursing the remaining funds before the fiscal year ends on Sept. 30. Continued …

Private hospitals may opt out of government health scheme

More private hospitals may cancel their affiliation with the government social security system because of mounting losses incurred by the low reimbursement for some patient services.

Paiboon Eksaengsri, president of the Private Hospitals Assn. (PHA), said on Monday the number of private hospitals participating in the healthcare scheme run by the Social Security Office (SSO) had dropped from 123 to 93 in the last decade. Continued …

Thailand’s Landmark Move: Same-Sex Marriage Legalized

Thailand has made history by becoming the first country in Southeast Asia to legalize same-sex marriage. His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn signed the law into effect yesterday, as announced in the Royal Gazette, following its passage by parliament in June.

This groundbreaking law will officially take effect in 120 days, paving the way for the first same-sex marriages in January. This decision positions Thailand alongside Taiwan and Nepal, making it the third place in Asia to grant marriage equality. Continued …

The man behind Moo Deng’s stardom

Meet Atthapon “Benz” Nundee, the 31-year-old zookeeper instrumental in making baby pygmy hippo Moo Deng a global sensation. And how it came about. Video …

  • South Korean man wanted for Pattaya murder nabbed in Vietnam – Continued …
  • Chaos at the Police Station Drunken Belgian Man Defecates and Dances in Underwear – Continued …

3 million to get handout funds today

The first 3 million needy and disabled people — out of a total of 14.5 million — will receive their 10,000-baht handout under the government’s digital wallet program today, according to Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat.

Due to limitations of the PromptPay payment system, only 3 million eligible recipients can be served initially. Funds were to be transferred to recipients’ bank accounts at midnight. Continued …

10,000-Baht Grant for Over 30 Million People Unlikely This Year

It is unlikely that over 30 million Thai citizens will receive a 10,000-baht grant under the second phase of the Pheu Thai-led populist handout scheme this year, Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat stated yesterday.

Out of approximately 45 million Thais, around 14.5 million will start receiving the funds through their state welfare cards today, with the remaining 30 million expected to wait until next year, according to Julapun. Among the 14.5 million recipients classified as “fragile,” three million will get the 10,000-baht handout tomorrow, with others following daily, the deputy minister added. Continued …

Thailand’s vehicle production, sales plummet over 20% in August

The manufacturing and sales of vehicles in Thailand fell by more than 20% in August compared to the same period last year, stats from the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) show.

Surapong Phaisitpattanapong, adviser and spokesman of FTI’s automobile club, said 119,680 vehicles were produced in August, marking a year-on-year drop of 20.56% in August and 4.12% decline from the previous month. Continued …

Thailand’s halal industry drives 335M baht in trade

The Office of Industrial Economics (OIE) says it is pleased with the success of its first year driving the Thai halal industry, generating 335 million baht in trade and enhancing Thailand’s positioning as the “ASEAN Halal Hub.”

The OIE reported that the Thai Halal Industry Driving Activities Project, part of the draft Thai Halal Industry Development Action Plan (2024-2027), and the Future Halal Food Industry Upgrading Project, has been successful in its first year (Quick Win) during fiscal 2024. Continued …

US online shopping platforms expanding in Thailand

U.S. social media platforms are expanding their presence in Thailand’s e-commerce sector to compete with the dominant players from China. Alphabet’s YouTube, for example, has officially announced its collaboration with Shopee in Thailand in the area of affiliate marketing to enter the video commerce segment.

According to Bloomberg, Sea Ltd.’s online retail arm Shopee recently struck a pact with YouTube in Indonesia, betting that the video platform would help it attract more shoppers and stay ahead of rivals TikTok and Lazada in the company’s biggest market. Continued …

Is Thailand’s Strongest Currency in Over a Decade a Threat to Booming Tourism?

Thailand’s currency, the baht, has hit its highest level in more than a decade, making domestic travel expensive. The country was once known as a budget destination, but tour and hotel prices have now soared to five-year highs. The baht’s strength has pushed up costs for foreign tourists, raising concerns about the impact on the booming tourism sector.

Rising demand for travel has also boosted the currency, and now the question is whether its rapid appreciation could threaten a sector that is a cornerstone of the Thai economy. Explore how a strong baht could change the future of tourism in Thailand. Continued …

Thailand Delays Automated Entry System for Foreign Tourists

Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on Monday that the launch of the nation’s highly anticipated automated entry system for foreign tourists has been postponed. Initially scheduled to roll out in December 2024, the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system’s debut has yet to be determined due to ongoing coordination with relevant agencies.

The ETA system aims to simplify immigration processes for international visitors by allowing tourists from 93 visa-exempt countries to register online before arriving in Thailand. Continued …

93 countries will require ETA for Thai entry

Travelers from 93 visa-exempt countries will need to apply for an electronic travel authorization (ETA) before their trip to the Land of Smiles.

Reports suggest a pilot program might kick off in December, with full implementation expected by June 2025. However, the exact launch date is still up in the air. Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Nikorndej Balankura said the government is still fine-tuning the system for international travelers. Continued …

Eateries applaud return of co-payment scheme

A revival of the “Rao Tiew Duay Kan” (We Travel Together) co-payment scheme could help restaurants upcountry amid a gloomy outlook for this year’s fourth quarter, according to the Restaurant Business Club.

Severe flooding in the north has affected the restaurant business in the country, with the prices of ingredients such as coriander, Chinese cabbage and rice rising sharply this month, said Sorathep Rojpotjanaruch, head of the club. Continued …

Airport expansions and upgrades planned over the next 5-10 years

The Airports of Thailand (AOT) has outlined a massive investment plan to upgrade and expand airport infrastructure across the country, aiming to bolster Thailand’s position as a regional aviation hub.

The ambitious project, valued at approximately 700 billion baht, will span the next 5-10 years and include the construction of new airports, expansion of existing facilities, and upgrades to key infrastructure. Continued …

Bangkok among top 5 destinations for China’s Golden Week holiday

Travel booking platform Agoda reports that Bangkok is one of the top five destinations among Chinese tourists for the upcoming Golden Week from Oct.1-7.

Agoda revealed the number of searches for overseas accommodations by Chinese nationals on Monday. The report showed that the number of searches increased by 137% compared to the same period last year. Continued …

Tax proposal gains support from Pattaya tourism operators

Tourism operators in Pattaya support the tourism and sports minister’s plan to provide proper welfare for businesses there if they register in the tax system, as these efforts could help reduce crime and bribery.

Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong plans to expand welfare benefits for independent workers, including drivers of ride-hailing services, tour guides, online content creators and sex workers, folding them into the tax system. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Why you should visit Thailand during the off-season

Despite the occasional downpour, there are plenty of reasons to visit Thailand from May to October – so pack your mac and sense of adventure, and get ready to see this spectacular country in a whole new light.

From rejuvenated landscapes to rich cultural experiences, the rainy season reveals a side of Thailand that is often overlooked. And who knows? The off-season might just become your favorite time to visit. Continued …

The Most Comforting Breakfast Is This Thai Shrimp and Fish Rice Porridge

The concept of Thai breakfast is that there is no strict concept of Thai breakfast. You’re just as likely to find a puffy Thai-style omelet at the breakfast table in a Thai home as you are fermented vermicelli noodles ladled with spicy fish curry or grilled pork alongside a bamboo basket of sticky rice.

“In Thailand, especially in the south, we eat full meals for breakfast,” explains Chutatip “Nok” Suntaranon, the 2023 James Beard award-winning chef and founder of Philadelphia’s Kalaya and the author of the forthcoming cookbook, Kalaya’s Southern Thai Kitchen. “People work on the farm or rubber plantations and they need something substantial.” Continued …

10 bangin’ bites to grab on the go in Bangkok

Thai cuisine features some of the best food in the world, from curries to tom yum soup, the food is always a perfect balance of spicy, sour, savory, and the slightest bit of sweetness.

However, it is sometimes difficult for foodies to enjoy all the delicacies being offered while simultaneously making the most of their trip, especially in Bangkok where tourists are eager to partake in a myriad of activities. Continued …

Cabinet allots Bt7.12 billion for EV subsidies

The cabinet has approved the allocation of 7.12 billion baht from the central reserve budget for emergency and essential purposes to fund the EV subsidy program.

Speaking after the weekly cabinet meeting on Tuesday, Jirayu Huangsab, an adviser to the prime minister, said the budget will be used to subsidize buyers of electric vehicles (EVs) and motorcycles who already purchased their vehicles, but have not yet applied for the government subsidy under EV promotion measures. Continued … 

Cathay Pacific adds dozens of North America flights

Cathay Pacific Airways is adding dozens of flights a week to the U.S. and Canada, bringing most services in the key North American market back to pre-Covid levels. The Hong Kong-based carrier plans to operate 108 return flights per week by May 2025 to North America, up from 88 now — a 23% increase. Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule Sept 21-Oct 26

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

  • Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
  • Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
  • Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
  • Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
  • Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586
baht, bangkok, cha am, chiang mai, exports, hua hin, marijuana, real estate, solar, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thailand, thailand festivals, tourism, transportation

Monday’s news-Sept 23

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Khao Takiab monkey relocation/Sramkova takes Thailand Open/Mechanic Crushed to Death in Cha Am/New Drunk Driving Testing/Thailand braces for deluge/Mud must be cleared/Community-led disaster management/State salaries face scrutiny/Wildlife sanctuary office bombed/iPhone users in Thailand/Anti-Cannabis Law Draft/Foreigners behaving badly/Economy: All eyes on the baht/Wage hike reaches stalemate/Tax reform plan/Thai restaurant industry in crisis/Casino plan defended/Chinese bought nearly 40% of condos/2024 GDP forecast at 2.6%/Rules target subpar imports/Thailand’s Halal Exports/Xiaomi takes 2nd spot/Tourism: Aid expedited for tourism sites/Foreign pilots allowed to fly/Thailand Experience: Trip to Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Sukhothai/Thai Breakfast Street Food/Unique Ice Creams/Five traditional dishes of Nonthaburi/Thai dish Larb Gai goes viral/Only Indian female chef with two Michelin stars/Statue fest in Petchabun/Climate Thailand: China’s footprint on Thailand’s energy landscape/International/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Khao Takiab monkey relocation

Continued …

 

 

Unseeded Sramkova takes Thailand Open top honors

Slovakia’s world No.102 Rebecca Sramkova breezed through the singles title showdown of the Allied Thailand Open at Arena Hua Hin on Sunday when she overpowered Germany’s Laura Siegemund, 6-4, 6-4.

The crowd at the venue was entertained to some good tennis by Sramkova as she wrapped up the battle between the two unseeded finalists in one hour and 56 minutes. Continued …

Mechanic Crushed to Death by Truck in Cha Am

An incident claimed the life of a 28-year-old truck mechanic yesterday while he was repairing the undercarriage of a 10-wheeler truck. The incident occurred at a truck repair shop along the Cha Am-Pranburi bypass, heading toward Bangkok.

According to police reports, the mechanic had finished replacing parts under the truck and was preparing to reattach the rear wheels. As he was adjusting the hydraulic jack to lift the truck higher, it tilted unexpectedly, causing the heavy vehicle to crash down on him, fatally crushing his head. Continued …

Suspected Drunk Drivers to Face New Testing Methods

Thailand has introduced new regulations allowing police to use urine or blood tests to determine the alcohol levels of drivers suspected of being drunk if they refuse to take a breathalyzer test. This announcement, published in the Royal Gazette, updates previous regulations from 1994 and 2017, which relied mainly on breathalyzer tests.

The revised laws aim to modernize alcohol testing procedures and enhance the effectiveness of legal measures to combat drunk driving. The regulation permits police officers to either collect urine samples on site or escort drivers to a hospital for blood tests when breathalyzer tests are refused. Continued … 

Thailand braces for a deluge

Heavy rainfall is expected across Thailand, with 80% of the country set to experience severe weather. The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued warnings for potential flash floods and sudden surges of water, particularly in mountainous and low-lying areas.

The TMD forecasts continuous rain for the next 24 hours, with heavy downpours in several regions. The lower northern, northeastern, central, and eastern regions are particularly affected due to a strong monsoon trough passing through these areas and extending to a low-pressure system over Hainan Island, China. Continued …

Thai PM: Mud must be cleared from Chiang Rai promptly

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has ordered officials to remove thick layers of mud from flooded Chiang Rai as soon as possible, while flood-related garbage and debris is estimated to be about 68,000 tons in this northernmost Thai province.

At Wing 6 in Bangkok on Sunday, Paetongtarn saw off air force aircraft that transported supplies from the government and the private sector to help flood victims in Chiang Rai. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Is community-led disaster management the key to breaking Thailand’s flood cycle?

Amid the many natural disasters that have struck Thailand over recent decades, one community stands out for robustly defending its inhabitants against floods, fires and landslides: Koh Khan in Nakhon Si Thammarat’s Cha-uat district.

“We have drawn up response plans and rehearsed them, so we know exactly what to do when disaster actually strikes,” said Komest Thongbunchu, chair of the Nakhon Si Thammarat Disaster Management Network. Continued …

State salaries and benefits face scrutiny

The Comptroller-General’s Department, the Budget Bureau and the Office of the Civil Service Commission (OCSC) are considering how to reform salaries and benefits in all government sectors.

According to Patricia Mongkhonvanit, director-general of the Comptroller-General’s Department, the government needs to address this issue because the budget allocated for these items is extremely high. Continued …

Wildlife sanctuary office bombed, torched in Thailand’s deep south

About 20 armed men took four officials hostage, stole firearms and bombed and torched four buildings at the office of the Hala Bala Wildlife Sanctuary in Waeng district in Narathiwat Saturday night.

Attapon Charoenchansa, director-general of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, said four sanctuary officials were captured in their living quarters while the black-clad and heavily armed attackers, with faces covered, bombed and torched the sanctuary office complex. Continued …

Five groups of iPhone users in Thailand

There are five groups of Thai users of the iPhone, the popular smartphone made by Apple Inc., according to a market survey and statistics of mobile-phone usage from 2019-2024, published by The 1 Insight on Friday.

The data insight platform that focuses on consumer lifestyles said the arrival of the latest iPhone 16 this week has doubled the sales of products in gadget groups compared with the same period in the previous month. Continued … 

Anti-Cannabis Law Draft: Political Compromise, Not Moral Outrage

The recent draft law on cannabis, proposed by Thailand’s health ministry, signifies a political compromise rather than a staunch moral stance. The draft aims to limit cannabis use strictly to medical treatments, official research, and as an ingredient in food and herbal products.

Severe penalties, including hefty fines and potential jail time, are outlined for deviations, but the specifics remain ambiguous. Notably, the draft omits any mention of recreational cannabis use. Continued … 

  • Iranian Man Arrested for Theft of Money From Russian Woman in Bangkok – Continued …
  • Tourist Police Arrest Indonesian Woman for Illegally Operating Tours – Continued …

All eyes on the baht

The direction of the Thai currency for the remainder of the year is critical for local industries after the U.S. Federal Reserve cut interest rates as expected last Wednesday, putting more pressure on the Bank of Thailand’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), which has held steady on rates since last year.

For the manufacturing, export and tourism industries, some executives estimate the short-term impact from the strong surge of the baht might not be severe, but they still want the central bank to act, as the Fed signaled additional rate cuts this year and next. Continued …

Vote on Thai wage hike reaches stalemate

A nationwide wage hike has encountered another delay, with the crucial planned vote on the issue reaching a stalemate after a tripartite wage committee member was poised to lose his seat.

The 400-baht wage hike proposal was scheduled for a vote by the committee on Friday. However, a lack of quorum led to the meeting being adjourned and rescheduled to Tuesday. Continued …

Tax reform plan to counter rising budget deficit

Thailand has faced a budget deficit for more than 20 years, and with no turnaround in sight, the government is urgently seeking additional revenue sources.

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra recently told the parliament that the government plans to generate new income by bringing the informal economy and underground economy, which are estimated to account for over 50% of GDP, into the tax system. Continued …

With over 600,000 closures, Thai restaurant industry in the midst of a crisis

The Thai restaurant industry is grappling with a severe crisis, with more than 600,000 establishments shuttering their doors in the past three years. The closures are primarily attributed to a combination of economic slowdown, intense competition, rising costs, and weakened consumer spending.

In a recent interview, Thaniwan Kulmongkol, president of the Thai Restaurant Assn., highlighted the urgent need for restaurateurs to transform their business models to survive in the challenging landscape. Continued …

Casino plan defended as economic boon

The ruling Pheu Thai Party has defended its casino-entertainment complex project, saying it will legalize the underground activity and allow the government to collect tax revenue from it.

According to a statement by Pheu Thai, legalizing underground gambling activities and tax on the project itself could be worth more than 50% of GDP, which will help boost the economy, and can be spent on education development and other projects. Continued …

Chinese nationals bought nearly 40% of condos sold to foreigners in H1

Chinese nationals bought 2,872 condo units in Thailand from January to June, accounting for 39.5% of all condominium ownerships transferred to foreigners in the first six months of 2024, the Government Housing Bank’s Real Estate Information Center (REIC) reported.

In second place are buyers from Myanmar at 638 units (8.8%), followed by Russia, 567 units (7.8%), Taiwan, 326 units (4.5%), and the United States, 292 units (4%). Continued …

KResearch keeps 2024 GDP forecast at 2.6%, stronger growth seen later

KResearch maintains its GDP projection for 2024 at 2.6 %, with growth in 2H24 expected to be higher than in 1H24. Attention should be paid to the short-term impacts of flooding and the slowdown in core global economies, it said.

It added the upcoming U.S. presidential election could bring about renewed trade tensions, and Thailand may see only limited benefits from the situation. Continued …

Digital rules target subpar imports

The Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA) has introduced new guidelines to deal with substandard products available on digital platforms, especially the flood of imported subpar items.

The agency wants to strengthen regulatory mechanisms to enhance buyer confidence. The new guidelines, dubbed “Management of the Sale of Products Requiring Standards on Digital Platform Services”, took effect on Sept. 2 under the digital platform service decree. Continued … 

Thailand’s Halal Exports Set to Soar with Global Recognition

Thailand’s halal industry has gained global recognition in recent years, positioning the country for significant growth in halal exports. Thailand, a predominantly Buddhist nation, ranks as a top global exporter of halal food, securing the 15th position in 2021.

The country’s halal food exports reached nearly US$6 billion in 2021/2022, targeting a 3% growth in 2023. Top exports include rice, sugar, canned seafood, processed fruits, vegetables, non-alcoholic beverages, and organic and functional foods. Continued …

Xiaomi takes 2nd spot after Samsung in August smartphone sales

Chinese smartphone makers are swiftly growing their presence in the global market, taking over the entry-to-mid-tier segment while creating a buzz with unique premium models to narrow the competitive gap with top players Samsung and Apple.

In August, Chinese firm Xiaomi claimed second in terms of global monthly sell-through volumes for the first time in three years, beating Apple, market tracker Counterpoint Research said Thursday. Samsung Electronics retained in the top spot. Continued … 

Aid expedited for tourism sites hit by floods

The government will expedite its compensation plan, including soft loans and tax measures, for tourism businesses hit by the recent inundation, according to an official.

The government is now preparing various measures, including an offer for a one-month exemption for tap water and electricity bills for households affected by the recent floods, he said. Continued …

Foreign pilots allowed to fly domestic routes

The Labor Ministry plans to temporarily allow foreign pilots to fly domestic routes through wet lease arrangements for airlines, but future requests from other airlines will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

“The ministry is still awaiting a final meeting with the airline to conclude the discussion,” said Labor Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn. Continued …

How to plan a trip to Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Sukhothai

When you think of Thailand, you think of Pad Thai, Tom Yum, temples, markets, beaches, and friendly people, but most importantly, you think of a budget-friendly destination you can easily visit.

Thailand has plenty to offer travelers across the budget spectrum. You can spend more than a week eating delicious food, exploring ancient sites, and getting lost in the maze of the urban jungle without breaking the bank. Continued …

Thai Breakfast Street Food Tour in Bangkok Silom Soi 20

Video …

Exploring Thai Street Food: Unique Ice Creams and Rolled Delights

Video …

Five traditional dishes among disappearing flavors of Nonthaburi

The Department of Cultural Promotion has compiled information on local cuisine under the 2024 fiscal year’s “The Lost Taste” project. The key focus is on preserving and collecting local dishes rich in cultural wisdom and unique flavors.

This initiative aims to connect Thai society to the value of traditional foods that form the roots of the Thai community. It also includes the preparation methods, history of each dish, and the cultural aspects associated with them. Continued …

New York Times spotlight on Thai dish Larb Gai goes viral

The New York Times’ recent feature on the Thai dish Larb Gai (minced chicken salad) has captured international attention, quickly going viral. The renowned media outlet, with over 19 million followers on Facebook, shared a detailed post about this popular Thai dish, sparking widespread interest.

Larb Gai, a dish made from minced chicken, is cooked with mint leaves, basil leaves, and shallots, and seasoned with lime juice and chilli powder. It is a favorite in both Laos and the northeastern region of Thailand (Isaan). The New York Times’ post not only described the ingredients and preparation but also highlighted the cultural significance of the dish. Continued …

Garima Arora, the only Indian female chef with two coveted Michelin stars

Sitting at the very heart of Bangkok’s vibrant dining scene, leading chef Garima Arora is the culinary mastermind behind the two Michelin-starred restaurant Gaa. Since opening in 2017, she has captivated audiences with her extraordinary vision, helping transform the landscape of Indian cuisine on the global stage.

Garima’s culinary journey began at 21, training in Paris at Le Cordon Bleu where she was introduced to a new culinary world of technique and skill. Embracing this, she relocated to Dubai to work at Verre by Gordon Ramsay before spending three years at Noma in Copenhagen. This diverse training and experience guided her at Gaa to explore in-depth Indian cooking techniques and flavors by applying them on locally sourced ingredients. Continued …

Statue fest gains new followers in Thailand’s Petchabun

The tradition of “Um Phra Dam Nam”, meaning “the bathing of a Buddha image”, in Phetchabun is expected to attract 200,000 visitors, generating about 80 million baht over the course of the 10-day event, which starts this Friday.

The event is unique to the region and organized every year on first day of the new moon on the 10th lunar month, which falls on Oct. 2 this year, said Seksan Niyompeng, mayor of Muang Phetchabun municipality. Continued …

Chasing the sun: China’s footprint on Thailand’s energy landscape

Thailand, a land of natural beauty, faces an escalating pollution crisis that threatens its environment. Yet, amid this challenge, collaboration with China is driving innovative solutions.

Video 

In the northeastern province of Ubon Ratchathani, a hydro-floating solar hybrid installation combines solar and hydropower, reflecting a future where technology and nature coexist harmoniously. Continued …

California expands ban on plastic grocery bags

California Governor Gavin Newsom signed legislation on Sunday that expands the most populous US state’s ban on plastic grocery bags. The state — which has the fifth largest economy in the world — had banned plastic bags in 2014, but allowed stores to offer consumers thicker bags that were said to be reusable. Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule Sept 21-Oct 26

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

  • Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
  • Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
  • Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
  • Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
  • Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586
baht, bangkok, chiang mai, climate change, exports, healthcare, hua hin, marijuana, real estate, thai economy, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand, thailand festivals, tourism

Friday’s news-Sept 20

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Thailand Experience: A Life Changing Move/Today’s news: Heavy rain for 5 days/Flooding persists/Nong Khai downtown is flooded again/Solutions to public health ‘crisis’/Python Unlikely to Return/’Moo Deng the hippo’ to be trademarked/Moo Deng Is the Moment/Bangkok to hold car free day/Cannabis chaos/Ex-Arsenal Player Arrested for Cannabis Smuggle/Economy: Baht’s rally threatens tourism, exports/Bangkok Restricts Street Vending/Looser real estate lending rules/Tax exemption for businesses affected by flooding/Thailand to borrow 2.59 trillion baht/Digital Wallets: Exploring the Future/Bt13.4-billion Chonburi smart AC factory/Cheer big US rate cut/Tourism: Keen on reviving co-payment scheme/‘Digital nomad’ visa promotion/6-country tourist visa planned/37 years career in Thai tourism/Thailand Experience: Sukhothai launches durian festival/Climate Thailand: Air pollution driving a real estate/Plans to achieve net-zero emissions/WWF Thailand teams up with food delivery platforms/Reforestation can help Thailand/Grab’s carbon offset journey/Bolt’s EV Usage Soars/International/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

A Life Changing Move to Rural Thailand

Charissa Enget needed to find an engineering course she could afford. She found one in rural Thailand, where she got a scholarship and living costs were low. It took her six months to learn the language so she could communicate with fellow students, make friends, and travel round the country at weekends.

“I think living abroad is a lot different from traveling abroad, just because you really get to know the people and experience the culture, and it changes your way of thinking a lot more. Thailand changed the way I interact with people in a lot of ways, and I feel bonded to Thailand for the rest of my life. It really changed the way I want to live my life, and I’ll never stop loving Thailand or traveling back there as much as I can.”

After two years, she decided that Thailand would always be a part of her life. Today, she leads trips to share her adventures and introduce American women to her friends and local families. Continued …

Tropical storm Soulik to hit Thailand with heavy rain for 5 days

Tropical storm Soulik over central Vietnam is forecast to bring isolated heavy to very heavy rain to several parts of Thailand for the next five days, the Thai Meteorological Department said on Thursday.

The department said that the storm developed from a tropical depression and was centered about 90 kilometers southeast of the Quang Tri coast with sustained winds of about 65 kilometers per hour. Continued …

Flooding persists in six provinces

Floods remain in six provinces in the north, the northeast, the Central Plains and the south, affecting more than 33,000 families.

The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation reported on Thursday that flooding continued in Chiang Rai and Phitsanulok provinces in the north; Nong Khai and Bueng Kan in the northeast; Ayutthaya in the Central Plains; and Satun in the south. The situation affected 33,667 households. Continued …

Barely a day after recovering, Nong Khai downtown is flooded again

Heavy downpour throughout Wednesday night again caused flooding in the downtown area of Nong Khai’s Muang district, barely a day after the previous bout of flooding had cleared.

Rains measuring 78.1 millimeters resulted in 40 centimeters of water logging on the main Prachak Silpakhom Road that runs through the business zone in the heart of Nong Khai. Continued …

Doctors propose solutions to public health ‘crisis’

A doctors’ group on Thursday submitted a petition to Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, proposing three measures to address the ongoing crisis in the public health system.

The group, led by Clinical Professor Emeritus Dr. Amnaj Kussalanan, a former president of the Medical Council of Thailand, submitted the petition at the Ministry of Public Health, where it was accepted by Dr. Watchai Charoonwattana, an adviser to minister Somsak Thepsutin. Continued …

Python Unlikely to Return After Attack, Says Wildlife Specialist

Nick Wildlife, a snake expert, points out that the case of a 4-meter-long python constricting a 64-year-old woman on Tuesday night, was not a hunt for prey but an act of self-defense. He also advised on survival techniques when constricted by a python.

Anirut Chomngam, also known as Nick Wildlife, head of the Venomous animal toxicology team, posted a video on his YouTube channel “Nick Wildlife” to explain this case. After interviewing Ms. Arom, the victim who was attacked and constricted by the snake for over two hours, he hypothesized that this large snake wasn’t hunting her as prey, but was defending itself. Continued …

‘Moo Deng the hippo’ to be trademarked, patented

Only a month after Thailand’s adorable baby hippo Moo Deng was unveiled on Facebook, her fame became unstoppable both domestically and internationally.

Zookeeper Atthapon Nundee has been posting cute moments of the animals in his care for about five years. He never imagined Khao Kheow Open Zoo’s newborn pygmy hippo would become an internet megastar within weeks. Continued …

Moo Deng Is the Moment

At the height of X’s popularity (really, back when it was still Twitter), it seemed like we couldn’t get through a week without the advent of some new viral, internet-friendly animal, from the Cincinnati Zoo’s Fiona the Hippo (she takes showers, guys!) to Koko, arguably the world’s most iconic gorilla.

Unfortunately, genuinely fun animal content has really taken a hit online lately, which might explain why the arrival of Thai pygmy hippo Moo Deng has captivated the world. Below, find everything you need to know about Moo Deng, the girl we all wish we could be. Continued …

Bangkok to hold car free day Sunday

Bangkok is revving up for Car Free Day this weekend on Banthat Thong Road, offering a vehicle-free zone for people to cruise around and soak up various activities. The event, dubbed Bangkok Car Free 2024: Connecting for Life, aligns with the annual World Car Free Day on Sept. 22.

Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt on Friday will chat about a transportation project designed to give city dwellers more ways to motor around town. This project champions the First Mile-Last Mile initiative, pushing public transport over personal cars and aiming to shift gears on how Bangkok commutes. Continued …

Cannabis chaos: Thailand’s weed rules you can’t afford to break

Thailand’s cannabis scene is about to get a whole lot more official but there are big consequences for those who don’t play by the rules. From Jan. 1, 2025, consumers will still have access to the country’s wide variety of dry flowers but breaking key regulations could land you in hot water.

The rules are simple: no smoking in public, no extracts with more than 2% THC without permission, and no use for anyone under 20, pregnant, or breastfeeding. Although these guidelines have existed for a year, enforcement is about to get serious. Violate them and you could be slapped with hefty fines or even spend a year behind bars. Continued …

Ex-Arsenal Player Arrested for $800K Cannabis Smuggle from Thailand

A soccer player who once appeared for Arsenal in the Champions League has been charged in connection with trying to smuggle cannabis worth 600,000 pounds ($800,000) through a British airport.

Jay Emmanuel-Thomas, who currently plays for Scottish second-tier team Greenock Morton, was arrested at his home near Glasgow early Wednesday, the Press Association agency reported Thursday. Continued …

Baht’s biggest rally since 1998 threatens tourism, exports

Thailand’s baht is on course for its biggest quarterly gain since the Asian financial crisis, threatening to derail a recovery in the nation’s key tourism and export industries.

The currency’s 10% surge against the dollar since the end of June, the most since the first quarter of 1998, has prompted calls from the tourism and hotel sectors, and business chambers to temper the rally. Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan and Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul this week urged the Bank of Thailand (BoT) to take steps to rein in the currency and stem its volatility. Continued …

Bangkok Restricts Street Vending to Low-Income Thais

In a response that has stirred both applause and dissent, new regulations from Bangkok city officials state that only low-income Thais can now set up street vendor stalls. Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt signed the new rules, which exclude migrant workers from participating in one of the city’s most vibrant sectors.

These controversial regulations, enacted by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), mandate that eligible vendors must be Thai nationals with specific economic standings. To qualify, vendors must possess government welfare cards, be paying off National Housing Authority properties, and receive welfare allowances from the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security. Crucially, their net income after business expenses must not exceed 300,000 baht annually. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Condo group calls for looser real estate lending rules

The government is advised to ease lending restrictions and reduce interest rates as newly completed condo units worth more than 86 billion baht are awaiting transfer in the fourth quarter, which could lift both the property sector and the entire economy, says the Thai Condominium Assn.

Prasert Taedullayasatit, president of the association, said the transfer value in the fourth quarter alone could be equivalent to the total value from the first three quarters combined. Continued …

FTI proposes corporate tax exemption for businesses affected by flooding

The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) has proposed to the government that it make an exemption from paying corporate income tax, extends the period for the submission of tax returns and exempts import tariffs on machinery for businesses hardest hit by the flooding.

FTI President Kriangkrai Thiennukul said the industrial confidence index for August was 87.7, which was lower than the preceding month, due mainly to a slowdown in demand, particularly for durable goods like automobiles. Continued …

Thailand to borrow 2.59 trillion baht for 2025 budget

The government of Thailand announced a borrowing plan of 2.59 trillion baht for the 2025 fiscal year, assuring that this will not hinder the private sector’s fundraising efforts, a Ministry of Finance official stated yesterday.

Jindarat Viriyataveekul, public debt adviser at the ministry, said the debt plan, which begins on Oct. 1, should not cause concern in the markets. She explained that approximately 1.1 trillion baht (US$33 billion) would be new borrowing primarily to cover the budget deficit, with the remainder designated for refinancing and restructuring existing debt. Continued …

Digital Wallets: Exploring the Future of Financial Transactions

The Financial Times recently highlighted Thailand’s highly anticipated digital wallet stipend scheme for eligible citizens, suggesting that the program offers a glimpse into the future of money.

Chai Wacharonke, a Thai government spokesperson, noted that the article recognized the program as part of a broader strategy aimed at boosting household consumption and GDP. However, critics argue that the program does not fully address deeper economic issues, such as low investment. Continued …

Haier’s Bt13.4-billion Chonburi smart AC factory approved

The Board of Investment (BOI) has agreed to grant privileges for a Chinese manufacturer Haier Appliance Manufacture (Thailand) Co. to invest 13.4 billion baht in building a factory in Chonburi to produce smart air conditioners for export.

Under the project, Haier will invest 13.4 billion baht in building a new factory covering a 200-rai plot in the WHA Eastern Seaboard 3 industrial estate in Chonburi. The factory should have the capacity to manufacture 6 million smart air conditioners per year. Continued … 

Asian markets cheer big US rate cut

Asian stocks surged on Thursday after the Federal Reserve made its first interest rate cut in four years a big one, creating what analysts say should be a path to a soft landing for the U.S. economy.

The dollar gained and long-dated bond yields rose as markets around the world welcomed the long-awaited action by the U.S. central bank, which cut its benchmark rate by 50 basis points to a range of 4.75% to 5.00%. Continued … 

Hotel operators keen on reviving co-payment scheme

Hotel operators have applauded the idea of reviving the co-payment scheme for hotel expenses, as it could help encourage domestic purchasing, while related stakeholders raised concerns over 1,400 unresolved fraud cases from previous phases of the scheme.

Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong said he discussed this issue with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra on Wednesday, and the premier agreed in principle to reintroduce this stimulus program, which was initiated during the Prayut Chan-o-cha administration. Continued …

‘Digital nomad’ visa promotion stepped up

The government is stepping up the promotion of its new Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) to attract foreign nationals who wish to work while traveling in Thailand, according to Foreign Affairs Minister Maris Sangiampongsa.

Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Maris said his ministry played a key role in the promotion of the DTV, which is expected to help generate revenue for the country. Continued …

New 6-country tourist visa planned by Foreign Ministry

Minister of Foreign Affairs Maris Sangiampongsa on Thursday announced plans for a new visa regime that would allow access to Thailand and its five neighboring countries, such as Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, and Malaysia. The minister emphasized that the ministry was working with the government to boost the country’s economy.

At the same time, he insisted that Thailand would remain a “neutral” player in geopolitics. The latter commitment is increasingly being examined as tensions between China and the United States in the region have grown substantially. Continued …

Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya’s 37 years career in Thai tourism

As Khun Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya prepares to retire after an illustrious 37-year career with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), his name has become synonymous with the international marketing of Thailand. Over 37 years, he has witnessed the evolution and resilience of Thai tourism. In a candid conversation, Khun Chattan reflects on his journey and the profound transformations he has witnessed in both Thailand and global tourism.

“Thailand is resilient and always bounces back after a crisis,” Khun Chattan begins, as he recalls the various highs and lows that have shaped the industry. From the Asian financial crisis of the late 1990s, to the more recent challenges of the global pandemic, Thailand has continually redefined its position as one of the world’s most sought-after destinations. For Khun Chattan, the essence of Thailand’s appeal lies not only in its landscapes or beaches but in its people. Continued …

Sukhothai launches durian festival with Monthong at just 1 baht

Sukhothai has kicked off a durian festival, offering special promotions with 200 queues per day for the coveted Monthong durian at just 1 baht per fruit. Customers are flocking to take advantage of the deals and carry home the prized fruit.

Yesterday in front of the Big C department store in Ban Kluai, Mueang district, Sukhothai province, a special festival featuring Monthong durians sold at affordable prices ranging from 99 to 129 baht per kilogram is drawing huge crowds. Continued …

How air pollution is driving a real estate transformation in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is one of the undisputed jewels in Thailand’s tourism crown. On the doorstep of some of the country’s most stunning nature, the idyllic northern city beckons visitors with its laidback blend of ancient temples, legendary Lanna cuisine, and lively arts and music scene.

But then March rolls around, and the smog rolls in. Every year, for about two months, Chiang Mai is shrouded in pollution, driving tourists away while long-suffering residents endure the poor living conditions. This pollution is exacerbated by the city’s location in a valley, which traps the smoke from agricultural burning in the region. Continued …

Three corporate giants reveal plans to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050

Three large corporations unveiled their investment plans to achieve their net-zero carbon emission goal during the event “60 Years Of Excellence” at Queen Sirikit National Convention Center on Wednesday.

Several companies are working on reducing their carbon footprint to mitigate the impact of climate change and drive Thailand’s carbon neutrality and net-zero carbon emission goals by 2050 and 2065, respectively. Continued …

WWF Thailand teams up with food delivery platforms for plastic reduction

The World Wide Fund for Nature Thailand (WWF Thailand) has joined forces with LINE MAN Wongnai and Foodpanda, to promote plastic reduction in the food delivery industry. Operating under the “Reduce-Increase-Exchange” concept, the initiative, piloted in four cities in southern Thailand, aims to expand its impact and drive nationwide change.

Rattaphon Pitakthepsombat, deputy director of conservation, WWF Thailand, said, “Plastic waste is a global issue that affects all of our lives. Every year, 430 million tons of plastic are produced worldwide. In Thailand, 75% of plastic waste, or around 1.5 million tons annually, is discarded and has not been circulated in the system, posing a risk of leakage into nature and remaining in the oceans for hundreds of years.” Continued … 

Reforestation can help Thailand honor Paris climate commitment

Reforestation is one solution for Thailand to meet its climate change pledge, experts said at the “Mae Fah Luang Sustainability Forum 2024” at Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre in Bangkok on Tuesday.

Signed in 2016, the Paris Agreement’s goal is to confine the rise in global surface temperature to not above 1.5 degrees Celsius of the pre-industrial levels by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and reach net zero by 2050. Continued …

Planting seeds of sustainability: Grab’s carbon offset journey

As the specter of global boiling looms large, innovative partnerships offer a beacon of hope. Grab, a leading superapp in Southeast Asia, and EcoMatcher, a technology-driven tree-planting platform, have forged an alliance in an effort to combat climate change.

By combining cutting-edge technology with transparency and community engagement, they are planting the seeds of a greener and more resilient future. Continued …

Bolt’s EV Usage Soars as Thailand Goes Green

Ride-hailing company Bolt has reported a significant increase in the use of electric vehicles (EVs) on its platform. The announcement comes as the country celebrates World Car Free Day and demonstrates a growing preference for emission-free mobility options among Thai commuters.

According to data released by Bolt, its green category, which features electric and hybrid vehicles, has seen a 257.5% increase in active EV cars. These eco-friendly vehicles have collectively traveled over 4.51 million kilometers – equivalent to approximately 112 trips around the Earth’s equator. Continued …

Southern African Nations Turn to Elephant Culling Amid Drought to Feed Hungry Communities

In response to a crippling drought, Zimbabwe and Namibia have announced plans to slaughter hundreds of wild elephants and other animals to provide much-needed food for their struggling citizens. The devastating drought, worsened by the El Niño weather phenomenon, has left many communities in these southern African countries facing severe hunger. Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule Sept 21-Oct 26

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

  • Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
  • Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
  • Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
  • Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
  • Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586
chiang mai, exports, hua hin, marijuana, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s news-Sept 19

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Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flights/PKK warning: Heavy rain/Chat Chai Market ‘modernization’/Koh Samui or Hua Hin?/Heavy rain until Monday/Flood warnings for northeast/Landslides, floods claim 19/New Bill to Regulate Cannabis/Foreigners behaving badly/Economy: Consumer spending to recover/Upbeat on wage hike/Only benefits large Thai businesses/Manufacturers’ confidence dips/‘Shady’ side to casinos/Thailand and UK sign trade pact/Rice exports surge/Tourism: Navy rescues 130 tourists/New platform for tourism/Safety for Full Moon Party/Thailand Experience: The best of Koh Samui/Climate Thailand: Energy-related CO2 emissions down/Tracking air quality/Changan debuts premium EV/International/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Updated Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

PKK warning: Heavy rain, flash floods through Saturday

Continued …

 

Chat Chai Market ‘modernization’ project approved

Continued …

 

Koh Samui or Hua Hin? How to choose between two of Thailand’s top beach destinations

Thailand is one of the world’s sandiest nations, with hundreds of beaches garlanded over 2,000 miles of coastline. These range from secluded, unspoiled coves with fine, white sand and crystal-clear waters to the more easily accessible and well-known beaches that tourists flock to every day. So where do you start?

You’ll find the best introduction in Hua Hin and Koh Samui. Two very different destinations but both oozing with the charm and beach experience that you’d expect from Thailand. Once a quiet fishing village on the skinny stretch of mainland north of the Malay peninsula, Hua Hin was established as a royal getaway in the 1920s and has since grown into a fashionable resort town. While Koh Samui offers laidback island life with pristine beaches, tropical greenery and a calm blue sea. Both border the Gulf of Thailand, a sandy-bottomed waterworld filled with kaleidoscopic sea life, where temperature in the area seldom dips below 24 degrees. Continued … 

Tropical storm to bring heavy rain until Monday

A depression is expected to strengthen into a tropical storm today, land in Vietnam and cause heavy downpours across Thailand until Monday, according to the Meteorological Department.

The depression, with wind speeds of 55 kilometers per hour at its center, was located about 300km northeast of Quang Tri province in Vietnam at 4am today, Kornrawee Sitthichivapak, director-general of the department, said. Continued …

Flood warnings issued for northeastern provinces

Authorities are closely monitoring water levels along the Mekong River, particularly in Nakhon Phanom, Mukdahan, and Ubon Ratchathani provinces, as rising waters threaten low-lying areas.

As of Tuesday, water levels in Nakhon Phanom reached 11.82 meters, just 0.18 meters below the critical level of 12 meters, sparking concerns for communities along the riverbanks. While the municipal area of Nakhon Phanom remains unaffected, agricultural zones in outer districts are experiencing flooding. Continued …

Landslides and floods in Thailand claim 19 lives

A severe landslide and flood disaster has affected nine provinces in Thailand, resulting in 19 fatalities and numerous injuries. The Ministry of Public Health is mobilizing medical supplies and healthcare personnel to assist the affected populations.

The disaster, which occurred between Sept. 8 and yesterday, has created a critical situation requiring a coordinated response from multiple government agencies. A teleconference was held yesterday, chaired by Veerawut Imsamran, inspector general of the Ministry of Public Health, in conjunction with the Emergency Public Health Division, provincial health offices, and other relevant agencies. The aim was to prepare for and manage the medical and health aspects of the ongoing crisis. Continued …

Thailand Unveils New Bill to Regulate Cannabis While Keeping It Legal

Thailand has proposed a new bill to regulate its cannabis industry and restrict marijuana uses to primarily health and medical purposes, the latest effort to rein in recreational smoking after several policy u-turns.

Under the draft legislation, cannabis or its extracts will be allowed for medical treatment and research by state agencies, besides its use in herbal, food and cosmetic products. The new bill was published earlier this week by the Ministry of Public Health, just days after the new administration of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra took office. Continued …

  • Illegal Foreign Guide Assaults Chinese Tourist at Jewelry Store – Continued …
  • Russian and Turkish Nationals Arrested for Illegal IT and Interior Installation Work – Continued …

Consumer spending to finally recover this year

The Bank of Thailand’s expected interest rate cuts, prompted by the strong baht and growth in the tourism sector, will both increase the country’s consumer spending, which is expected to exceed the 2019 level for the first time this year, say analysts.

While consumer spending remains pressured by high household debt, it should be buoyed by foreign tourist arrivals, which play a large role in the Thai economy, according to BMI, a Fitch Solutions company. Continued …

Government upbeat on wage hike plan

Labor Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn is confident that a fresh daily minimum wage hike to 400 baht nationwide could be introduced on Oct. 1 along with measures to assist affected businesses.

The minister’s remarks on Wednesday come amid uncertainty surrounding the upcoming meeting of the tripartite wage committee on Friday, where the proposed 400-baht minimum wage nationwide will be discussed. Continued …

Bank of Thailand boss: current economic thinking only benefits large Thai business concerns

Thailand’s central bank boss continues to be at odds with the Pheu Thai-led government. Again this week, he has been openly criticized by a senior cabinet minister. Undoubtedly, there is now a widening difference of thinking between Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput and his political colleagues on how the Thai economy should be managed.

Sethaput’s disillusionment with the current government’s model for economic growth was on full display recently in a speech he gave to an audience in Bangkok. The central bank boss noted that while the Thai economy grew by nearly 30% in 10 years, in a similar period, Thai household debt has mushroomed. Furthermore, he warned that the major beneficiaries of government policy appear to be the kingdom’s large corporations. Continued …

Manufacturers’ confidence dips to 87.7 points in August

The Thai Industries Sentiment Index (TISI) fell to 87.7 points in August amid a stagnant economy, a strengthening baht and the impact of severe flooding in the north, says the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).

The index, which gauges business confidence among manufacturers, only rose temporarily to 89.3 points in July, thanks to higher demand for food, medicine and cosmetic products. Continued …

Opposition warns of ‘shady’ side to casinos

The opposition People’s Party has warned the government about its casino project following specific revisions to the plan that it believes could trigger shady business dealings.

Nont Pisarnlimjaroenkit, a People’s Party MP for Nonthaburi, told parliament that the government led by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra expects to generate new income by bringing underground businesses into the tax system. Continued …

Thailand and UK sign ‘enhanced trade’ pact

The government of the United Kingdom has agreed to boost trade and investment with Thailand in the first such deal made by the new Labor government since it took office in July.

The enhanced trade partnership agreement, which aims to ease barriers to the flow of goods and services, was signed by Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan and UK Trade Minister Douglas Alexander in Bangkok on Wednesday morning. Continued …

Thailand’s rice exports surge 22% in first 7 months

Thailand’s rice exports rose 21.97% in the first seven months of 2024 compared to a year earlier, driven by rising global demand, as rice-importing countries seek to secure stocks amid food security concerns, official data showed on Wednesday.

The Southeast Asian country shipped out 5.68 million tons of rice during the January-July period, worth 132.4 billion baht (about 3.7 billion U.S. dollars), representing a 50.97% jump in export value year-on-year, according to the Ministry of Commerce. Continued …

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Navy rescues 130 tourists stranded on an island off Phuket

About 130 Thai and foreign tourists, mostly Chinese, were safely rescued yesterday after they became stranded on Racha Yai Island, off Phuket, due to rough seas and strong winds, making it impossible for the tourist speed boats to pick them up.

Alerted by a call for help, the Royal Thai Navy sent a coastal patrol vessel to the island to take the stranded tourists back to the shore of Phuket. A naval officer said that the rescue mission was hampered by rough seas, but all the tourists were safely rescued. Continued …

New platform to host Thai tourism services

The Tourism and Sports Ministry has unveiled a new web portal connecting online services from the public sector, including the new electronic travel authorization (ETA) system and the 300-baht fee collection from foreign tourists in the future.

Mongkon Wimonrat, deputy permanent secretary at the ministry, said the website named “Entry Thailand” is a central platform that features helpful information and travel services from suppliers, seeking to engage tourists throughout their trips. Continued …

Tourist Police Ensure Safety for Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan

Police Lt. Gen. Saksira Phueak-um, commissioner of the Tourist Police, has assured enhanced safety measures for tourists attending the upcoming full moon party on Koh Phangan, set to attract thousands of visitors. The announcement came after a crucial security briefing held at the Vannee Golden Sands Hotel nvolving key officials and representatives.

Joining the security discussions were Deputy Commissioner Phongsiyam Meekhantong, Police Maj. Gen. Phopphon Chakkapark, British Consul Joanne Finnamore-Crorkin, London Police Chief Inspector Lorenzo Conigliaro, as well as local district and municipal leaders. Continued …

The best of Koh Samui

In the late morning on Koh Samui, it began to sprinkle and strong gusts were driving away the nimbus clouds as we reached Bang Makham beach for breakfast. For a mere 59 baht per person, the Po Lay beachfront eatery offers a full buffet line-up with tempting options of authentic southern-style fare such as yellow fish curry (nam ya pla), thick fish curry (gaeng tai pla) and peanut sauce (nam prik), which can be paired with a range of fresh or pickled vegetables.

Here, customers tend to enjoy stunning views of the sea and an immaculate beach from an alfresco dining area sheltered by tall native plants. However, it felt like we were being hit by a hurricane when dining outside at that time, as the wind was rippling our hair in all directions and taking most of the fresh vegetables off our plates. Continued …

Thailand’s energy-related CO2 emissions down 2.5% in first half of 2024

Thailand’s carbon dioxide emissions from energy usage from January to June stood at 121.9 million tons, down 2.5% year on year (YoY), the Energy Policy and Planning Office (EPPO) reported on Wednesday. The office said electricity generation emitted the most CO2 at 48.1 million tons, increasing 5.8% YoY.

In second place was the transport sector, which emitted 41.5 million tons of CO2, down 1.2% YoY. The industrial sector, meanwhile, emitted 25.6 million tons of CO2, decreasing 16.8% YoY. Continued … 

Tracking air quality the right way

Every year, the World Health Organization (WHO) summarizes global progress on malaria control. It details the number of cases in affected countries, shows year-on-year changes, outlines goals, and assesses the current funding landscape. The United Nations puts out a similar annual report for HIV/Aids.

This regular tracking of serious public-health concerns is essential for addressing them effectively, because it can help channel resources to where they are most needed and identify interventions that are working. Continued …

Chinese automaker Changan debuts premium EV brand AVATR in Thailand

Chinese automaker Changan Automobile officially launched its premium electric vehicle (EV) brand AVATR in Thailand on Tuesday in a move to expand its presence in the Southeast Asian country’s upscale automotive market.

The event showcased the debut of the AVATR 11, an SUV coupe that marks Changan’s fourth model introduction in Thailand, following the launches of the Deepal L07 and S07 last year and the Lumin L earlier this year. Continued …

Fears of all-out war as new Lebanon device blasts kill 20, wound 450

A second wave of device explosions killed 20 people and wounded more than 450 others on Wednesday in Hezbollah strongholds in Lebanon, officials said, stoking fears of an all-out war with Israel. A source close to Hezbollah said walkie-talkies used by its members blew up in its Beirut stronghold, with state media reporting similar blasts in south and east Lebanon. Continued …

Federal Reserve signals end to inflation fight with a sizable half-point rate cut

The U.S. Federal Reserve on Wednesday cut its benchmark interest rate by an unusually large half-point, a dramatic shift after more than two years of high rates that helped tame inflation but also made borrowing painfully expensive for American consumers. Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule Sept 21-Oct 26

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

  • Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
  • Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
  • Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
  • Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
  • Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586
bangkok, cha am, chiang mai, exports, healthcare, hua hin, immigration, pattaya, phuket, retirement, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Monday’s news-Sept 16

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Blessing of the fleet/Red Cross Fair in PKK/Shotgun slaying in Cha Am/Leave license at home/Heavy rain forecast/Floods, landslides claim 16 lives/Flooding affects about 30,000 families/Mekong River breaches embankment/Mekong nations can curb floods/Blackpink’s Lisa performs/Best health insurance for expats aged 40-60/Overhead cables moving underground/12,000 visitors for baby hippo/Foreigners behaving badly/Economy: Daunting to-do list/Thailand a major trading nation/Workers ponder their future/Business Leaders Reject 400 Baht Minimum Wage/‘Pet humanization’ trend/Major retail outlet closures/Texas Chicken folds its wings/Tourism: Thailand’s new visa measures/Pattaya’s raunchy nightlife/’Wellness on a Plate’ campaign/Trat islands tourism/More man-made tourism magnets/Increase in Malaysian tourists/AirAsia Thailand India flights/Thailand Experience: What to do in Betong/Climate Thailand: New Era of Travel Prioritizing Sustainability/The plastic menace/EV sector crisis/Electric vehicle surge/PTT’s path to greener future/WHAUP prepares for energy demand spike/International/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Hua Hin holds blessing of the fleet ceremony

Continued …

Red Cross Fair kicks off in PKK

Continued …

Stepson charged with shotgun slaying in Cha Am

Continued …

New Thai app allows drivers to leave license at home

Thailand’s Department of Land Transport (DLT) has introduced a QR license mobile app to provide convenience to motorists who will no longer need to carry a driver’s license.

Seksom Akraphand, director-general of the DLT, said the app allows people to display their digital driving license on electronic devices such as smartphones and tablets. Continued …

Heavy rain forecast for 51 Thai provinces, Bangkok on high alert

Today’s weather forecast warns of heavy rain across 51 provinces in Thailand, with Bangkok expected to be significantly affected. Citizens are advised to be cautious of potential flash floods and forest runoff.

The Meteorological Department of Thailand’s (TMD) 24-hour weather forecast for today predicts heavy rain in certain areas, particularly in the northeast, east, and western parts of the south. This heavy rainfall, combined with accumulated precipitation, may result in flash floods and forest runoff, especially in hilly areas, near waterways, and low-lying regions. Continued …

Floods and landslides in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai claim 16 lives

Floods and landslides in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai have resulted in 16 deaths and 136 injuries, with officials closely monitoring two additional districts for heavy rainfall anticipated from today until Wednesday.

The Ministry of Public Health reported on the current flood and landslide situation in health zone one, covering Sept. 8 to Sept. 13. The incidents primarily affected two provinces. Continued …

Flooding affects about 30,000 families in 12 Thai provinces

Flooding is affecting 30,073 families in 12 provinces, mostly in the north, and is rising in some provinces, especially northeastern ones, on Sunday, while weather forecasters expect more heavy rains this week.

Chaiwat Chuntirapong, director-general of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, on Sunday said that flooding continued in: Continued …

Red alert issued in Nong Khai as Mekong River breaches embankment

Nong Khai’s municipal administration issued a red alert on Sunday morning to warn residents in the area to brace for flooding, as the swollen Mekong River has breached a sandbag embankment, causing water to flood a temple community.

Lt. Satawat Nukul, deputy company commander of the 24th Army Circle, said he has asked the provincial governor to bring large bags and concrete barriers to reinforce the embankment, fearing that the sandbags will not be able to withstand the water pressure. Continued …

Mekong nations can curb transboundary floods

The government must closely work with neighboring countries to improve the management of the Mekong River to reduce economic damage and loss of life during floods in the future, the International Rivers Network says.

Pianporn Deetes, campaign director for the Southeast Asia program at the International Rivers Network, said a huge volume of water from Myanmar contributed to the flooding disaster in Chiang Rai province. Continued …

Blackpink’s Lisa performs at VMA awards

Video …

 

 

How to choose the best health insurance for expats aged 40-60 in Thailand

Moving to Thailand as an expat brings exciting new experiences, but it also comes with the responsibility of securing quality healthcare, especially for those between 40 and 60.

At this stage in life, it’s important to find a health insurance plan that covers your specific needs and ensures peace of mind. Here’s a guide to help you choose the best health insurance plan for an expat in Thailand. Continued …

Bangkok’s overhead cables moving underground

Smart energy development in central Bangkok under the Samyan Smart City project continues to make progress, with the latest effort relocating overhead power and communication cables underground, says the Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA).

Overhead cables that ran along Chulalongkorn Soi 12, which leads to Banthat Thong Road, along with those located in an area in front of the King Rama VI Monument near Lumpini Park, were removed last month, eliminating an urban eyesore, said Rachain Unwet, assistant governor for distribution system service at MEA. Continued …

Zoo sees 12,000 visitors for baby hippo Moo Deng

A surge of 12,000 visitors flocked to Khao Kheow Open Zoo yesterday to see the increasingly popular baby pygmy hippopotamus known as Moo Deng. The zoo plans to introduce a new sloth family next month, urging tourists to avoid disturbing animals.

The Director of the Zoological Park Organization of Thailand, Attaporn Srirang, reported that the popularity of Moo Deng has significantly boosted visitor numbers. The zoo, located in Si Racha, Chon Buri, saw an influx of people arriving even before opening hours. Continued …

  • Russian Employer and Russian Electrician Arrested – Continued …
  • Police raid in Na Jomtien uncovers Indian call scam operation – Continued …
  • Chinese men arrested for using remote jammer to steal from cars – Continued …
  • Pattaya pub raid nets illegal Canadian DJ, sword-carrying Briton – Continued …

Thailand’s new premier faces a daunting to-do list

Business leaders and economists have urged the government of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to address both short-term problems and structural economic issues simultaneously.

They view comprehensive debt restructuring, measures to help low-income earners, and safeguards for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) against unfair foreign competition, especially online trading platforms, as the the top three priorities that must be tackled by the government as soon as possible. Continued …

Shippers council has a strategy to make Thailand a major trading nation

The Thai National Shippers’ Council (TNSC) has unveiled a strategic development plan aimed at transforming Thailand into a leading global trading nation.

TNSC Chairman Chaichan Charoensuk last week highlighted the challenges and opportunities facing Thai exporters in today’s evolving global trade landscape. He emphasized the need for increased competitiveness amid growing trade barriers, rising costs, geopolitical tensions, and conflicts. Continued …

Thai workers ponder their future amid changing economic landscape

The employment situation in Thailand remains unclear. While official figures show low unemployment at 1.07% in the second quarter this year, the jobless number rose to 430,000, according to state-owned think tank National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC).

The data comes amid the closure of many local manufacturing plants, citing fierce competition from cheaper products imported from China, the high cost of living and sluggish economic growth. Continued …

Business Leaders Reject Nationwide 400 Baht Minimum Wage Hike

Natthaphon Luangwongpaisan, chairman of the Upper Northeastern Chamber of Commerce in Thailand, has openly criticized the government’s initiative to implement a nationwide minimum wage increase to 400 baht per day, set to take effect on Oct. 1.

(Editor: Here’s a thought. If the minimum wage is higher in Bangkok than in northeast Thailand, doesn’t that encourage people to move from northeastern Thailand to Bangkok for work?)

Luangwongpaisan argues that this policy lacks consideration for the diverse economic conditions present across different regions. Continued …

‘Pet humanization’ trend playing a big role in expanding Thailand’s pet market

Thailand’s pet market in 2024 is projected to be worth 75 billion baht, representing a 12.4% growth year on year, according to ttb analytics. The main factor driving this growth is the shifting trend in pet ownership.

Pet owners today increasingly view their pets as family members, a concept known as “Pet Humanization”. This has led to the idea of “petriarchy”, where pets are seen as the center of the family, and the rise of “pet celebrity”, where pets gain popularity and social influence, ttb analytics said. Continued …

Examining causes of major retail outlet closures

In early 2024, several news reports highlighted the closure of many Thai businesses, including numerous retail stores in provincial areas.

If we consider the closures of retail branches in Thailand in recent times, they include the Fairyland mall in Nakhon Sawan, the closure of branches at Kad Suan Kaew Shopping Center in Chiang Mai, Promenada Mall in Chiang Mai, and Tang Hua Seng in Thonburi. Continued …

Texas Chicken folds its wings for good in Thailand

Texas Chicken is shutting down all its outlets in Thailand after serving customers here for nine years. The fastfood company announced today that it would close all outlets from the end of September. It gave no reason for its decision to exit Thailand.

“It’s time to say goodbye to Texas Chicken after nine years of tasty memories,” it said. Texas Chicken is an American fast food restaurant chain, called Church’s Texas Chicken in the United States. Continued … 

Thailand issues four major announcements on new visa measures

The Ministry of Interior has issued four major announcements on new visa measures since July 15. These measures are intended to enhance the tourism industry, attract foreign investment, and bolster local businesses and communities.

  1. Destination Thailand Visa (DTV): Designed for digital nomads, remote workers, freelancers, and those interested in Thai cultural activities. It is valid for five years and allows multiple entries, with each stay up to 180 days. This visa can be renewed for an additional 180 days within Thailand. Spouses and children under 20 years old can also apply for dependent DTV visas. Continued … 

Pattaya’s raunchy nightlife is still expanding

Pattaya doomsayers will tell you Sin City is all but finished. A combination of gentifrication (posh buildings replacing bars and clubs) and diversification (people now bring their kids on holiday here) has all but decimated the old Pattaya.

The number of western expats, especially retirees, has dropped thanks to repatriation or liver disease. “Things are not what they used to be,” bewails a British pensioner sipping beer with his mates as they watch the traffic jams unfold on Soi Buakhao. Continued …

TAT launches ‘Wellness on a Plate’ campaign

The Tourism Authority of Thailand has launched a new campaign called “Wellness on a Plate” to showcase the wide range of Thailand’s gastronomic offerings and their health benefits.

TAT Gov.Thapanee Kiatphaibool, said Thai cuisine isn’t just about food, as it is also about the nation’s longstanding cultural heritage. Under the campaign, tourists will be invited to explore various wellness-themed routes, which offers new ways to experience Thai cuisine. Continued …

Trat islands tourism bear cost of uncertainty

Tourism providers in Trat say political uncertainty and a stagnating economy are harming tourism in the province.

Attaphon Klimtap, CEO of Bunsiri Speedboat, a major speedboat operator in Trat, said tourism growth in this eastern coastal province, especially to popular sites such as Koh Chang, Koh Kut, and Koh Mak, has fallen by half during this year’s low season. Continued …

More man-made tourism magnets

While Thailand is usually perceived as a “sea, sand and sun” destination, attracting new tourism markets by developing man-made attractions has piqued the interest of the private sector. The government is drafting a plan for entertainment complex projects, which would feature legal casinos in Thailand for the first time.

Companies are enthusiastic about new attractions, with Asset World Corp. recently announcing a plan to build the first water park in Chiang Mai to serve families. Continued …

Malaysia-Thailand border checkpoint sees increase in tourists

As the school holidays and Malaysia’s National Day draw near, the number of tourists crossing the border into Thailand has increased significantly, with Bukit Kayu Hitam ICQS being a key entry point.

The strategic location of this border checkpoint, located along one of the most important routes connecting Malaysia and Thailand, makes it a key route for travelers looking to explore the neighboring country. This increase in travel volume reflects the increasing trend of Malaysians choosing to travel across the border during the festive season. Continued …

AirAsia Thailand launches Hyderabad-Bangkok, Chennai-Phuket flights

AirAsia Thailand is expanding its India network with the launch of direct flights from Hyderabad to Bangkok and Chennai to Phuket.

The Hyderabad-Bangkok route will begin on Oct. 27, offering four weekly flights, while the Chennai-Phuket route will start on Oct. 30 with three weekly flights. Continued … 

What to do in Betong, a hidden gem in south Thailand

The morning dawned as I parted the curtains and opened my fifth-floor hotel window. The distant mountains were still shrouded in clouds, but my attention was drawn to the street hawkers below, the clashing of utensils, and the roar of passing cars and motorcycles.

I looked at my watch. It was 6:30 am Malaysian time, 5:30 am in Betong, a hidden gem lodged among the mountains. I was there on a short holiday with family and friends. Continued …

Sustainable Tourism’ A New Era of Travel Prioritizing Sustainability

Although expansion in the global tourism industry has been a significant driver of economic growth, this has come at the cost of negative consequences for th environment and local communities. As a result, interest in sustainable tourism, which aims to reduce the social and environmental impacts of the industry, while also generating economic benefits for all stakeholders, has been rising worldwide, driven by consumers’ growing environmental concerns and the setting of official net zero goals.

Within the Thai context, growth has been helped by the development of local sustainable tourism models, moves to encourage businesses to “measure-reduce-offset” their carbon emissions, and support for the adoption of sustainability standards. Nevertheless, although businesses active within the tourism sector (hotels, restaurants, transportation providers, etc.) are being presented with the opportunity to expand into new, environmentally conscious market segments, this will impose the need to adopt much more stringent environmental and social standards. Continued …

Saving the planet from the plastic menace

There is no denying that plastics have delivered tremendous benefits over the past century. But as we now know, this progress has come at great cost.

Plastic pollution endangers wildlife, damages ecosystems and poses serious risks to human health. Microplastics, along with the toxic chemicals they contain, are found in the air we breathe, the food we eat and can be absorbed through the skin. As plastic waste accumulates in water, harmful chemicals contaminate the soil. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

EV sector crisis as Chinese firms trapped between lack of demand, tax penalties

Thailand’s new EV manufacturing world is in crisis. The sector, which has seen Chinese firms invest billions, is now suffering a market glut, as demand for EV cars, both in Thailand and across the world except for China, falls. This year has seen the industry tilt decisively towards HEV or hybrid vehicles.

At this time, it is being reported that Chinese firms in Thailand are holding urgent talks with the Chinese Embassy in Bangkok. The firms are bound under Thailand’s 3.0 and 3.5 incentive schemes to ramp up production to match the number of imported vehicles here. However, unable to find export markets for the cars, they are left with a vast dilemma. Continued …

The electric vehicle surge and Thailand’s plastic curse

The streets of Phuket, and indeed across Thailand, are undergoing a quiet transformation. The subtle hum of electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids is becoming increasingly familiar, marking a change welcomed by many.

However, this shift isn’t fueled by a sudden wave of environmental consciousness among Thais and expats. Instead, it’s a matter of market dynamics: these vehicles are now affordably priced, offer attractive credit and undeniably fashionable. Continued …

PTT plots path to greener future

PTT Plc, Thailand’s national energy company, has realigned its strategy to balance business growth with sustainability, and advance both its own and the nation’s goals of achieving carbon neutrality and net-zero emissions, says its chief executive officer.

PTT President and CEO Kongkrapan Intarajang recently saidthe company is focused on balancing business growth with sustainability to ensure Thailand’s national energy security. PTT has set an ambitious target of reaching carbon net zero by 2050, well ahead of the national goal of 2065 agreed upon at COP26 in Glasgow, Scotland. Continued …

WHAUP prepares for energy demand spike through renewables

WHA Utilities and Power (WHA P), an arm of Thailand’s biggest industrial land developer and operator WHA Corp, is planning to spend 2.3 billion baht to support its business and serve growing demand for water and clean electricity in Thailand and Vietnam.

A portion of the budget will be allocated for renewable energy expansion, with a goal to reach electricity generation capacity of 1,000 megawatts under power-purchase agreements with the government, said Somkiat Masunthasuwun, director and a member of the WHAUP executive committee. Continued …

Myanmar flooding leaves 74 dead, 89 missing as rescue efforts intensify

As of Sept. 13, reports from Myanmar indicate that 74 people have died and 89 are missing in 64 townships and 462 wards/villages affected by flooding. Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule May 3-Aug 31

FD901: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
10:20 – 11:50
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
12:20 – 13:35

FD900: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
09:00 – 10:30
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
11:00 – 12:15

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

  • Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
  • Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
  • Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
  • Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
  • Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586
bangkok, exports, healthcare, hua hin, marijuana, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, tourism

Tuesday’s news-Sept 10

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Hua Hin releases annual report/Rabies eradication on PKK agenda,Elephant statues to decorate Hua Hin/Severe rainfall warning/Muzzled 10 Dogs With Tape/Halt Dog Sacrifice Ritual/Squabble over pets escalates to murder/Record number of medals at Paralympics/Breaking taboos in Thailand/Medical Cannabis Act/Economy: Thailand government’s policy statement/PM Promises Immediate Stimulus/Digital wallet to start this month/All restrictions on digital wallet lifted/Businesses expect revenues to rise/Thailand’s proposed mega projects/Three casino resorts in Bangkok/Positive news for construction sector/Bang Khun Thian land reclamation/Economy has passed its lowest point/Thai chicken export factories/Thai jewelry exports surge/Anadaman pier upgrades/MR. D.I.Y. kicks off IPO/Tourism: European travelers a driving force/World’s most overcrowded destination/Why eSIMs Are the Best Choice/Tourists ignore red flags in drownings/Thailand Experience: A golfer’s paradise/Millions of shrimp ‘marching’/Celebration of faith and merit/Climate Thailand: Hydro power plants in development/Environmental preservation index/International/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Hua Hin municipality releases annual report, population at 62,000

Continued …

Rabies eradication on PKK agenda

Continued …

 

 

Elephant statues to decorate Hua Hin sites starting Oct 12

Continued …

Hua Hin school offering English for tourists course

Continued …

Severe rainfall warning issued for 34 Thai provinces tomorrow

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued a warning for severe rainfall in 34 provinces tomorrow, urging residents to be cautious of potential flash floods and landslides. The warning highlights the risk due to heavy and very heavy rain expected in various regions.

TMD reported that the northern region will experience significant rainfall in provinces such as Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lamphun, Lampang, Phayao, Nan, and Tak. In the northeastern region, heavy rain is expected in Loei, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Udon Thani, Sakon Nakhon, and Nakhon Phanom. Continued …

Pattaya: Search For Culprit Who Muzzled 10 Dogs With Tape
Authorities are searching for an unknown individual who bound the mouths of 10 dogs with adhesive tape in Soi 12, Pattaya-Naklua Road, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi. Some of the dogs were also seen with plastic bottles hanging around their necks. Local residents speculate that the muzzling was due to the dogs’ loud barking and aggressive behavior toward tourists. Upon investigation, it was confirmed that the dogs had been walking and lying along the streets with their mouths taped shut. The security guards in the area stated that although these dogs are usually looked after by someone, they remain muzzled day and night, with the tape only removed when someone comes to feed them. (aseannow.com)

Hope Thailand Intervenes to Halt Dog Sacrifice Ritual in Nan

Hope Thailand, a non-profit organization dedicated to preventing cruelty to animals, has intervened to stop a ritualistic dog sacrifice in the northern province of Nan. The tradition planned in Ban Huai Klaeb, Song Khwae district, was set for Sunday. However, thanks to action by Hope Thailand, the event was called off.

The turn of events began when a concerned individual uncovered the ritual plans via social media. Alarmed, the person reached out to Hope Thailand, seeking assistance. The organization swiftly fact-checked the report, confirming its authenticity. Continued …

Squabble over pets escalates to murder, suicide

A months-long dispute over two pets, a dog and a cat, culminated in a retired army officer shooting dead his neighbor and then ending his own life, in Khlong Luang district of Pathum Thanion Monday morning.

Police were called to a housing estate in tambon Khlong Sam. They found two bodies, one Col. Jaruchart Jarupan, aged 64, and the other, Saowagul Sasadoh, 53. The woman’s 30-year-old son was also injured, with a bullet wound to his left hand. Continued …

Thailand won record number of medals at the 2024 Paralympics

Thai athletes won 30 medals, ranking 21st on the medal table when the games ended on Sunday. Thai’s secured 6 golds, 11 silvers and 13 bronzes. This is a new record for Thailand, marking their highest medal count since joining the Paralympics.

Thailand exceeded expectations by winning more gold medals than at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, where they won 5. Continued … 

International Literacy Day breaking taboos in Thailand

Yesterday marked International Literacy Day, an event recognized by UNESCO to emphasize the role of literacy in personal development and societal participation. Literacy plays a crucial role in accessing knowledge and shaping futures. At the Danish Embassy in Thailand, efforts are being made to support education and empowerment through reading.

This spring, the Danish Embassy in Thailand, in collaboration with @BarefootBanana, released the first Thai translation of the Danish book “Det er bare blod” (It’s Just Blood) by Louise T. Sjørvad and Jette Sandbæk. The book addresses menstruation, a topic often surrounded by cultural taboos in Thailand. Menstruation is frequently viewed as unclean, despite being a natural biological process. Continued …

Medical Cannabis Act will be passed, Anutin says

Deputy PM and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul on Monday expressed confidence that the new government will continue pushing the act that allows the use of cannabis for medical purposes.

“We (the Bhumjaithai Party) have proposed the draft act to the prime minister and are waiting to see if it will be included in the policy statement to be delivered next week,” said Anutin, who is also the Bhumjaithai leader. Continued …

Key points of new Thailand government’s policy statement

Thailand’s new government published a policy statement on Sunday that Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra will deliver to parliament at a session from Thursday marking the formal start of her administration.

Following are key points of the statement from Paetongtarn, who has said her government will prioritize stimulating Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy while continuing with the policies of her predecessor, Srettha Thavisin. Continued …

Thailand’s PM Promises Immediate Economic Stimulus

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra emphasized her commitment to stimulating Thailand’s economy immediately, aiming to continue the policies of former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. Following Srettha’s removal for ethical violations, Paetongtarn held a cabinet meeting to prepare new policy proposals for parliament’s two-day session starting Thursday.

At her first press conference, she stated her administration would focus on issues like debt restructuring and support for small and medium-sized enterprises, particularly in agriculture and tourism. However, she remained vague regarding adjustments to the controversial digital wallet scheme, which proposed cash handouts to millions of Thais. Continued …

Digital wallet handout to start this month

About 14.5 million state welfare cardholders and people with disabilities are expected to receive a 10,000-baht digital wallet handout after Sept. 20, Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira said on Monday.

“By the end of September, we will offer the digital wallet to 13.5 million state welfare cardholders and 2.2 million people with disabilities,” he said, adding that some people with disabilities also have state welfare cards. – The Nation

All restrictions on spending of digital wallet scheme lifted

About 14 million disabled and vulnerable Thai people will each receive 10,000 baht in cash under the “digital wallet” scheme this month, while the remaining 30 million people will receive the cash in two payments.

The first 5,000 baht will be in cash and the remainder in “digital money”, to be distributed next year, according to Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. Continued …

Thailand-based businesses expect revenues to rise sharply over next 3 years

Business sentiment in Thailand is on a rise after a new government has been put in place and all sectors are witnessing a resurgence in prospects of growth.

One big indicator has been the continued rise of the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET), which has risen by more than 141 points since August 16, when Paetongtarn Shinawatra won the mandate in the parliament to be 31st prime minister, has seen the SET Index rise of about 11% and overall sentiment has returned to being positive. Continued … 

Thailand’s proposed mega projects: weighing the costs

Three economists have spoken out in favor of the government’s three mega-projects – the land bridge, entertainment complexs and land reclamation – which they regard as positive momentum for Thailand’s economy, but also point to the need for careful evaluation of all the options.

Pipat Luangnaruemitchai, managing director and chief economist of Kiatnakin Phatra Financial Group (KKP), says that allowing private sector investment without subsidies or income compensation for entertainment complexes would positively impact the economy by attracting substantial foreign capital and driving long-term economic growth, but says he’s concerned about the potential “moral” considerations. Continued …

Thailand targeting three casino resort developments in Bangkok

Thailand’s newly appointed Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is set to call for the development of up to seven integrated casino resorts nationwide as part of her efforts to boost the economy, including three in Bangkok, according to local media reports.

The update, which is sure to attract the attention of the world’s largest IR operators, follows publication on Sunday of a policy statement that Paetongtarn will deliver to Parliament later this week. Continued …

Proposed mega projects positive news for construction sector

Stocks in the construction industry will undoubtedly benefit from the government’s land bridge, Bang Khun Thian land reclamation and entertainment complex projects, with Sino-Thai Engineering and Construction (STEC), CH Karnchang (CK), and Italian-Thai Development (ITD), all of which have consistently demonstrated their capacity to manage large-scale construction projects, well-positioned to bid for contracts, Thai brokers say.

Ratasak Piriyanont, senior executive director at Kasikorn Securities, said the land bridge project is viewed as a positive for both industrial estate and construction stocks, including those of CK, STEC, and ITD. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Concerns raised at proposed Bang Khun Thian land reclamation project

Real estate experts have voiced their concerns about the proposed land reclamation in the Gulf of Thailand, urging the government to conduct a thorough study before releasing a comprehensive plan.

Proposed by former PM Thaksin Shinawatra, the Bang Khun Thian land reclamation project involves the construction of nine islands in the Gulf of Thailand. While some regard it as a significant mega-project for national investment, it has faced opposition due to concerns about environmental damage and the impact on local ecosystems. Continued …

FETCO: Thai economy has passed its lowest point

Kobsak Pootrakool, chairman of the Federation of Thai Capital Market Organizations (FETCO), says the outlook for Thailand’s economy in the fourth quarter of 2024 is to improve steadily from late September going forward.

He says the overall economy remains on track, with GDP projected to grow by around 3%, indicating that Thailand’s economy is beginning to recover, similar to the global economy. Continued …

China gives nod to three more Thai chicken export factories

China’s General Administration of Customs (GACC) has approved three additional Thai chicken export factories, bringing the total number of certified and registered factories in Thailand to 26.

In 2023, Thailand exported frozen poultry products to China worth 16.9 billion baht. The trend continued into 2024, with exports exceeding 8 billion baht in the first half of the year. The department anticipates that the total value of frozen poultry exports to China in 2024 will exceed 18 billion baht. Continued …

Thai jewelry exports surge 6.65% to $5.1 billion in first 7 months

Thai exports of jewelry and gems in the first seven months of this year rose 6.65% from the same period last year to US$5.103 billion (172.78 billion baht), the Gem and Jewelry Institute of Thailand (GIT) announced on Monday.

That figure excluded gold ornaments. With the addition of gold ornaments, the export value from January to July was $9.301 billion, up 13.86% from last year. Continued …

Thailand to ramp up Anadaman pier upgrades

The Transport Ministry has ordered the Marine Department to expedite its projects to improve maritime connectivity across the Andaman Sea provinces in an effort to boost economic activities in the region.

According to Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri, the 740-million-baht project is a key part of a new push initiated by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit to improve the region’s logistics infrastructure and boost tourism. Continued …

MR. D.I.Y. kicks off IPO listing process

MR. D.I.Y. Holding (Thailand), a fast-growing general home improvement and lifestyle retailer, has filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for an initial public offering (IPO).

Bualuang Securities and CIMB Thai Bank have been appointed as financial advisers to proceed with the listing on the Stock Exchange of Thailand. Continued …

European travelers remain a driving force for Thailand’s tourism industry

With travel back in full swing, Thailand has set itself the goal of attracting 40 million tourists this year, looking to achieve 3.5 trillion baht in tourism revenue. With promising figures in the year so far, the Southeast Asian country is well on track to achieve, and possibly even exceed, the goal.

In the first quarter of the year, 9.4 million foreign tourists visited Thailand and, by July 31, it reached the half benchmark of 20 million. However, with the high season yet to come in November and December, the outlook for year-end numbers seems more than promising. Continued …

World’s most overcrowded destination has over 100 tourists per resident

One of the best parts of booking a holiday away is experiencing some of the world’s most beautiful destinations – but this can be ruined if you don’t plan ahead, and end up sharing your relaxing getaway with hundreds of other tourists, all trying to do the exact same thing as you.

Post-pandemic, millions of holidaymakers are making up for lost time by jetting across the globe to experience the best of what the world has to offer, which has led to some stunning locations becoming a little overcrowded. Continued …

Why eSIMs Are the Best Choice for Travelers in Thailand

Traveling to Thailand in 2024? Staying connected is easier and more affordable than ever with eSIM technology. Gone are the days of fumbling with physical SIM cards. With an eSIM, you can activate a local network with just a few taps on your device.

This modern solution offers travelers unmatched convenience and flexibility, making it the best choice for anyone visiting Thailand. Continued …

Tourists ignore red flags, involved in drowning incidents at Kata, Karon

Two foreign tourists were involved in separate drowning incidents at Kata and Karon beaches on Phuket Sunday after ignoring red no swimming flags and entering the water. Continued … https://www.thephuketnews.com/tourists-ignore-red-flags-involved-in-drowning-incidents-at-kata-karon-93594.php

Why the south of Thailand is a golfer’s paradise

If you want to know what it’s like to play golf in paradise, then southern Thailand may be the place for you. Hitting the fairways in this lush locale is a dream for golfers. It combines beautiful beaches and gorgeous sunsets with a fantastic mix of challenging and fun courses, and it’s all wrapped up in that world-renowned Thai hospitality.

Golf in the south of the country is divided across two main areas – Phuket in the west and Koh Samui in the east. Phuket’s vibrant mix of luxury resorts, lively nightlife, and stunning beaches make it an ideal destination for those seeking both challenging rounds of golf and exciting off-course activities. Continued …

Tourists flock to witness rare phenomenon of millions of shrimp ‘marching’

A unique natural event is drawing tourists from Ubon Ratchathani and nearby provinces to witness millions of freshwater shrimp, including the rare giant river prawn, marching from the river’s end to their spawning grounds in the Phanom Dong Rak mountain range. This phenomenon, occurring between late August and the end of September each year, is one of a kind in the world.

The shrimp make their way upstream from the Kaeng Lam Duan area in the Yod Dome Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Dom Pradit subdistrict, Nam Yuen District, Ubon Ratchathani, to their breeding sites on the Phanom Dong Rak mountain range, which forms a natural border between Thailand and Cambodia. Continued …

Salak Yorm: a celebration of faith and merit

Each September, the tranquil province of Lamphun in northern Thailand springs to life with the vibrant Salak Yorm Festival, a cherished celebration of spiritual devotion led by Yong women.

While Yong men traditionally enter the monkhood for three months, the women express their deep connection to Buddhism through elaborate rituals, centered on towering trees adorned with intricate offerings. Continued …

Top five hydro power plants in development in Thailand

Hydro capacity accounted for 15.4% of total power plant installations globally in 2023, according to GlobalData, with total recorded hydro capacity of 1,407GW. This is expected to contribute 10.9% by the end of 2030, with capacity of installations aggregating up to 1,562GW.

Of the total global hydro capacity, 0.29% is in Thailand. Listed below are the five largest upcoming hydro power plants by capacity in Thailand, according to GlobalData’s power plants database. Continued …

Thailand scores low on environmental preservation index

Thailand’s potential for environmental preservation fell from 87th to 91st this year, according to the recent Environmental Performance Index (EPI).

The report, which surveyed 180 countries and territories, was published by Yale University’s Center for Environmental Law & Policy and Columbia University’s Center for International Earth Science Information Network. Continued …

46 confirmed dead, 22 still missing in Vietnam after Typhoon Yagi

Typhoon Yagi and floodings and landslides triggered by heavy downpours have killed 46 people, and 22 people remained missing in the northern region as of yesterday. Only nine were dead during the storm, while floods claimed 53 and landslides claimed six people in the days after the storm passed. Continued …

Australia plans social media ban for children

Australia said today it planned to introduce legislation this year to ban children from using social media platforms, citing the risks it could pose to physical and mental health. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said his center-left government would begin an age verification trial over the next few months. Continued …

South korea begins robot delivery service as food delivery app

Yogiyo, a South Korean food delivery app, has officially launched the country’s first robot delivery service. The self-driving delivery robots will operate within a 1.2-kilometer radius of participating restaurants, delivering food to locations such as apartment complexes, universities and office buildings. Continued …

China opens up medical sector, manufacturing to foreign ownership

China will allow wholly foreign-owned hospitals to be set up in several major cities, and let foreign investors offer human stem cell and gene therapy services in pilot free-trade zones, as part of efforts to bring back foreign investment and stabilize growth. Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule May 3-Aug 31

FD901: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
10:20 – 11:50
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
12:20 – 13:35

FD900: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
09:00 – 10:30
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
11:00 – 12:15

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

  • Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
  • Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
  • Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
  • Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
  • Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586
climate change, exports, healthcare, hua hin, retirement, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, tourism, transportation

Saturday’s news-Sept 6

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Hua Hin event calendar/Law to tax income from overseas/Best Place to Retire/Ladies at the forefront/International schools in Thailand soar/Loss of forest areas in Nan/CPF refuses to accept tilapia blame/Abandoned cruise ship capsizes/Foreigners behaving badly/Economy: Inflation in September/July Exports Highest in Over Two Years/Focus on sufficiency economy/Pride in local brands/7-Eleven rejects $39 billion buyout/AI could ‘supercharge’ economy/Thai organic market/Tourism: Destination Thailand Visa/Brace for the worst/AOT aiming high/Singapore to build mega airport terminal/Surge in Indian Visitors/Thailand Experience: Taking Chiang Rai to the world/Climate Thailand: Tackle plastic waste now/World has hottest ever summer/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Hua Hin event calendar

Law to tax income from overseas in the works

The Thai Revenue Department is drafting a law to tax the income of individuals residing in Thailand that originates from overseas. The draft follows the international principle of worldwide income under the residence rule, said Kulaya Tantitemit, the director-general of the department.

This principle holds that income earned by an individual, regardless of its source country, must be taxed by the country where the individual resides for a specified period. Continued …

Thailand Named the Best Place to Retire in Southeast Asia

Retiring abroad is becoming a reality for more and more people, whether seeking a more affordable lifestyle or just a new adventure. And while some opt to relocate to a European country like Spain or Portugal, others focus on far-flung locales like Southeast Asia. If this sounds like you, consider spending your golden years in Thailand.

The country was recently named the 16th best overall by Global Citizen Solutions (GCS). The company ranked countries in three categories: quality of life, acceptance and integration, and economics. Thailand was second in the economics category and seventh for overall quality of life. Continued …

Ladies at the forefront of power

A new chapter in Thai political history is about to begin with Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s appointment of eight female ministers to her cabinet, the highest number ever.

The Srettha Thavisin administration had four, the first Prayut Chan-o-cha government had two, the second Prayut administration had three, while the Yingluck Shinawatra and Abhisit Vejjajiva administrations each had four. Continued …

Hua Hin International School

International schools in Thailand soar as local schools shrink

While Thailand faces a crisis with its plummeting birth rate and shrinking student numbers, international schools are thriving, growing by an average of 13% annually. In stark contrast to the decline in Thai public and private school enrollments, the demand for international education is skyrocketing.

According to a study by Kasikorn Research Center, international school enrolments surged by 10.2% last year, despite an overall decrease in Thai student numbers. This boom is partly driven by foreign executives, whose numbers have increased by 0.6% each year over the past decade. Continued …

Loss of forest areas in Nan of concern

The northern province of Nan is home to one of the country’s key watershed forests, the source of several major waterways, including the Chao Phraya River. This forest area was declared a first-grade national forest in the 1960s.

However, over the past 50 years, about 28% of this vital area has been lost to agricultural activities. Banthoon Lamsam, a prominent resident of Nan, referred to this as an “intractable malady”, stating that the province’s forests and local communities are in urgent need of assistance. Continued …

CPF refuses to accept tilapia blame

Charoen Pokphand Foods (CPF) has again denied it is behind the blackchin tilapia outbreak, however critics may not be fully assuaged as it cited findings from its own investigation into the invasive fish scourge, rather than that of a third party.

On Thursday, local fishermen in Samut Songkhram filed a lawsuit with Bangkok South Civil Court against CPF, seeking over 2.4 billion baht in compensation. Continued …

Abandoned cruise ship capsizes in Thai waters

The 17,000gt cruise ship Ocean Dream has been anchored off the port of Laem Chabang for more than a year, before it finally took on water and became partially submerged about 2 kilometers off Laem Chabang.

In August 2012, Ocean Dream had begun twice-weekly sailings from Thailand’s Laem Chabang, calling at Ko Samui and Sihanoukville, Cambodia. Easttime Shipping had teamed with Hong Kong-based Profit Summit Deluxe Cruise to initiate the service. The ship accommodated 1,060 passengers in 420 cabins. Continued …

  • Police Bust Unlicensed Canadian Massage Instructor with Drugs on Koh Phangan – Continued …
  • Austrian Nabbed on Koh Phangan for Doing Tour Guide Job – Continued …
  • Alleged American Life Coach Arrested with Magic Mushrooms in Bangkok – Continued …
  • Two Indian Tourists Arrested in Pattaya for Theft on First Day in Thailand – Continued …
  • Chinese Fugitive in $1.5 Million Fraud Case Uses Thai ID Card for 14 Years – Continued …

Inflation in September likely to continue upward trend of last few months

The general inflation rate for September is expected to see a slight increase over August, likely ranging between 0.5% and 0.7%, according to Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, director of the Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO).

Key factors contributing to the rise in inflation include higher domestic diesel prices, which were capped at 33 baht per liter, year on year, and the impact of flooding that has driven up prices of fresh vegetables and fruits due to damage to some cultivation areas. Continued …

Upturn in Electronics and Gold Push July’s Exports to Highest in Over Two Years

In July, Thai exports rose 15.2% year-on-year, reaching USD25,720.6 million, marking the highest growth in over two years. This surge exceeded analysts’ expectations, influenced by improved global demand, particularly in the electronics sector.

Notably, computer and parts exports increased by 82.6%, while gold exports expanded by an extraordinary 434.4%. The favorable base effect from lower export values last July also contributed to this significant growth. Continued …

SMEs want government to focus on sufficiency economy

The Federation of Thai SMEs has urged the new government under Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to focus less on populist policies and more on following the sufficiency economy philosophy to ensure sustainable development.

“Small and medium-sized enterprises want to see economic policies that do not focus on free handouts but rather on creating change through the sufficiency economy philosophy applied to public administration, using knowledge in conjunction with ethics,” Sangchai Theerakulwanich, federation president said on Friday. Continued …

Thais take pride in local brands

The majority of Thais are willing to pay more to support local brands, as more than 90% feel proud seeing Thai brands in the international market, according to a survey by VML Thailand, a marketing and communications agency.

The 2024 VML survey “Super Brands in APAC” covered eight countries in Asia-Pacific (APAC): China, India, Japan, South Korea, Australia, Singapore, Vietnam and Thailand. Continued …

7-Eleven rejects $39 billion buyout offer from Canadian owner of Circle K stores

Thailand’s huge CP Group conglomerate, led by Chief Executive Officer Suphachai Chearavanont, will be watching avidly as Couche-Tard, a Canadian convenience store operator, attempts to buy the 7-Eleven franchise chain.

The multinational behemoth owns stores across the world, including the Circle K convenience store chain. It has stores in Canada, the United States, Mexico, Ireland, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Japan, China, and Indonesia. Continued …

AI could ‘supercharge’ the economy

As the working age population shrinks, artificial intelligence (AI) could be a catalyst to “supercharge” the Thai economy, says Ruangroj Poonpol, group chairman of Kasikorn Business-Technology Group (KBTG), an arm of Kasikornbank.

By fostering a skilled workforce and igniting innovation, AI can help increase the country’s productivity by 15% annually, propelling Thailand out of economic stagnation, Ruangroj said. Continued …

Healthy eating trend boosts Thai organic market

As the trend of health and wellness continues to rise in Thailand, a recent study conducted by Marketbuzzz among Thais in July highlights both the aspirations and the realities of Thais when it comes to healthy eating, including the perception of organic food.

The study reveals that the most important factors influencing food purchases are price (56%), nutritional facts (53%), taste (40%), brand (39%), and health claims (34%). This data indicates that while health and wellness are significant, cost and taste still play crucial roles in decision-making. Continued …

Destination Thailand Visa Gains Popularity Among Expats

The new Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) has rapidly become a popular choice among expat communities both in Thailand and abroad. Designed to cater to remote workers, individuals seeking skills-based education or medical treatment, and families, the visa option is attracting significant interest.

While exact statistics are still unavailable, estimates from Thai embassies in neighboring countries suggest that over 1,000 applications have been submitted worldwide in just under two months. Most of these applications appear to come from digital nomads looking to take advantage of the visa’s flexible terms. Continued …

Tourism minister urged to brace for the worst

Tourism operators have warned the new tourism minister to brace for a nosedive in the global economy and fiercer competition next year, urging the government to start planning for the worst-case scenario from this year.

Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun, president of the Thai Hotels Assn., said the number of foreign tourist arrivals this year should meet the government’s target of around 38 million. However, he said the new minister and the government should look ahead to next year, as several negative factors could emerge. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

AOT aiming high with airport plans

Airports of Thailand (AOT) has outlined an expansion of its six international airports to manage 210 million passengers by 2032. Kerati Kijmanawat, AOT director, on Friday outlined the Ministry of Transport’s strategic plan for 2023-2027, which aims to make Thailand a regional aviation hub.

As part of that, he said that Suvarnabhumi International Airport aims to have 120 million passengers by 2030, while Don Mueang International Airport expects to reach 40 million in the same year. Chiang Mai International Airport will serve 20 million passengers by 2032, Phuket International Airport will handle 18 million passengers by 2028, and Mae Fah Luang Chiang Rai International Airport and Krabi International Airport will each serve 6 million passengers by 2032. Continued …

Singapore to build mega airport terminal

Singapore will start construction of a new mega terminal at its Changi Airport in the first half of next year, aiming to lift the aviation hub’s annual passenger handling capacity by another 50 million.

The city state’s airport currently has capacity to handle 90 million passengers each year and the new Terminal 5, when operational in the mid-2030s, will also increase its connectivity to more than 200 cities from almost 150 now. Continued …

Visa-Free Thailand Sees Surge in Indian Visitors

India and Thailand have witnessed a significant uptick in travel between the two countries. According to data from the Indian Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the April-June quarter of this year saw a record 1,160,000 passengers traveling between India and Thailand via direct flights. This surge is reflective of Thailand’s growing appeal among Indian tourists.

Thailand, known for its tourism-driven economy, introduced a visa-free policy for Indian nationals effective Nov. 10, 2023, initially until May 2024. This policy has since been extended until Nov. 11, 2024. The move comes in response to the slow recovery of China’s outbound tourism, which traditionally contributed significantly to Thailand’s tourist numbers. Continued …

Taking Chiang Rai to the world

The founder of Welcome to Chiang Rai Co., a new social enterprise in northern Thailand, was inspired by the beauty and diversity of hill tribe apparel and accessories and aims to add value to such crafted products to help generate sustainable income for the communities producing them.

Chotiros Thatthaisong’s passion and love of hand-woven textiles produced by local weavers led to the establishment of ‘Welcome to Chiang Rai’ in December 2023. Continued …

Tackle plastic waste now

The death of a pregnant whale from consuming plastic waste has brought tears to many animal lovers’ eyes and sparked anger over the government’s failure to manage plastic pollution.

The viral image of the deceased dwarf sperm whale is both heartbreaking and graphic. Alongside the image of the dead whale is a picture of her unborn male calf, as well as the bubble wrap and plastic sheet that marine officials removed from her body after she was found on a Phuket beach earlier this week. Continued …

World has hottest ever summer with Mediterranean hard hit

This summer was the hottest ever in the Northern Hemisphere, putting the Earth on track for another record-breaking year.

The European Union’s (EU) Copernicus Climate Change Service reported that for June to August, global temperatures were 0.69 degrees Celsius above historical averages, beating the previous high set last year. The record for the world’s highest average temperature was broken on a number of days over the summer. Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule May 3-Aug 31

FD901: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
10:20 – 11:50
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
12:20 – 13:35

FD900: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
09:00 – 10:30
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
11:00 – 12:15

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

  • Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
  • Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
  • Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
  • Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
  • Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586
bangkok, exports, healthcare, hua hin, medical tourism, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism

Friday’s news-Sept 6

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September, October Hua Hin events/Soi 80 shooter’s name revealed/Typhoon Yagi to hit most of Thailand/Driver’s Licences Organ Donor Status/No 30-baht co-payment review/AI to transform healthcare/Economy: House approves Bt3.75-trillion budget/Digital wallet will change/Want minimum wages unchanged/Government ‘committed’ to Bt400/Push to legalize casinos could backfire/Cross-border trade expands/Told to open Thai offices/Nine train projects/China: Benefactor or imperial menace?/Thai Influencer Market Soars/Southeast Asia’s E-Sports Hub/Tourism: ETA to shake up visa-free visitors/Refrain from slashing rates/European tourism slumps/Thailand Experience: Bangkok’s must-try street foods/Climate Thailand: Thai cities tackle emission problems/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

September, October Hua Hin events

Soi 80 shooter’s name finally revealed, out on bond

Five senior police officers in Hua Hin have been transferred following a shooting incident at an unlicensed nightclub. The incident resulted in the death of a soldier and injuries to three others.

The shooting occurred in the early hours of Aug. 18 at the Tiny Bar on Soi 80, a popular nightlife area just 500 meters from the local police station. The victim, Rojchanaphon Rojchanapanich, an intelligence officer with the Infantry Regiment Center in Pran Buri district, was shot dead by 34-year-old Jakkrit Worakul, who was an adviser to the Hua Hin police until his recent removal following charges. Continued …

Typhoon Yagi to hit most of Thailand with heavy rain

The Office of National Water Resources (ONWR) issued a warning on Thursday, saying Typhoon Yagi will bring heavy rain to the north, northeast, east and south (Andaman coast) of Thailand this week. Surasee Kittimonthon, the ONWR secretary-general, said the typhoon is forecast to pass through Hainan in China and make landfall over upper Vietnam on Friday and Saturday.

Increased rainfall is expected to hit Thailand over the next seven days. Heavy flooding can be expected in flood-prone areas in the north, as well as Trat in the southeast and Chanthaburi in the east, he added. Continued …

Thailand’s Driver’s Licenses Now Show Organ Donor Status

Driver’s licenses in Thailand will now clearly display whether the holder is an organ donor, the Department of Land Transport (DLT) has announced. Effective from Aug. 7, the updated design aims to raise awareness and streamline the identification of organ donors.

The new license design features a more prominent Red Cross emblem with the words “organ donor” visibly placed at the top right, provided the holder is a registered donor. This marks a substantial change from the previous version, and only included a smaller emblem without any descriptive text. Continued …

Public health minister rejects 30-baht scheme co-payment review

Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin dismissed a proposal from health experts to revisit the co-payment system of the universal healthcare policy, known as the 30-baht gold card scheme. Somsak stated emphatically that he had no intention of reopening discussions about the co-payment plan.

The minister’s comments come in response to recent concerns from a network of hospitals and medical staff. They have reported that the scheme is causing significant issues for state-owned hospitals, including increased patient visits, staff shortages, and financial deficits. Continued …

True, Intel turn to AI to transform healthcare

True Corp. has partnered with global technology company Intel to transform Thailand’s healthcare industry using artificial intelligence (AI).

The partnership leverages True’s 5G network capabilities and Intel’s advanced AI tech to introduce seven new smart healthcare solutions to improve the diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation and patient data management for hospitals and healthcare agencies. Continued …

House approves Bt3.75-trillion budget

The House of Representatives has passed a 3.75-trillion-baht budget for the fiscal year starting October, which will allow newly appointed Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to lift state spending to accelerate a nascent economic recovery.

The budget bill, which proposes a 4.2% increase in government spending from the revised outlay for current fiscal year, was backed by 309 lawmakers in its third and final reading in the 500-member House of Representatives late Thursday. A total of 155 lawmakers voted against the budget bill at the end of a three-day debate. Continued …

PM promises policy continuity, but digital wallet will change

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra says her first policy statement next week will echo that of her predecessor Srettha Thavisin, except for some details of the digital wallet handout program.

Paetongtarn spent Thursday working at Shinawatra Tower 3, the temporary headquarters of the Pheu Thai Party, to finalize the statement. Her father, former premier Thaksin Shinawatra, was spotted going into the building via an underground entrance but he declined to talk to reporters. Continued …

At least 23 provinces want minimum wages unchanged

Wage committees in at least 23 provinces have proposed to keep the minimum wages in their areas unchanged at 330-345 baht per day after months of consideration, a news source said Thursday.

These provinces include Nong Bua Lamphu, Udon Thani, Chaiyaphum, Buri Ram, Nong Khai, Kalasin, Mukdahan, Roi Et and Ubon Ratchathani, said the source. Other provinces, meanwhile, have proposed a hike in minimum wages from 2-42 baht, mostly starting from Jan. 1, 2025, the source added. Continued …

Government ‘committed’ to Bt400 minimum wage

The labor policy of the Pheu Thai-led government, particularly the plan to raise the daily minimum wage to 400 baht nationwide, remains unchanged, according to caretaker Labor Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn.

Phiphat on Thursday gave his assurance that the wage increase targeting certain professions and specific areas is expected to take effect on Oct. 1, with further details to be announced soon. Continued …

Why Thailand’s push to legalize casinos could backfire

Thailand could become the casino capital of Southeast Asia if the incoming government backs a draft law on entertainment complexes.

The previous prime minister, Srettha Thavisin, voiced support for legalizing the huge “grey economy” of gambling to enhance oversight and tax income. Casino complexes were an opportunity to boost Thailand’s tourism industry and economy, he said. Continued … 

Cross-border trade shows strong expansion in July, boosting Thai exports

Thailand’s border and cross-border trade continued its upward trajectory in July, being valued at 158.1 billion baht, according to the Department of Foreign Trade, Commerce Ministry on Thursday.

This represents a significant increase of 21.7% year on year, marking the fourth consecutive month of growth. Exports accounted for 87.1 billion baht, reflecting a rise of 15.5%, while imports totaled 71.0 billion baht, resulting in a trade surplus of 16.1 billion baht. Continued …

Foreign e-commerce firms told to open Thai offices

Foreign e-commerce operators will be required to set up registered offices in Thailand under the digital platform service law, according to the Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA).

The ETDA is one of a number of state agencies taking action against the flood of cheap products from China flowing into the country, available via e-commerce platforms operating in Thailand. Continued …

Ministry to propose nine train projects

Nine railway projects, including the 357-kilometer second phase of the Thai-Chinese high-speed train system, will be proposed for cabinet approval next month, according to Deputy Transport Minister Surapong Piyachote.

All nine projects need a total of 661 billion baht in investments, he said. Of the nine, six cover double-track rail routes that require 298 billion baht, he added. The six are the 285km Paknam Pho-Den Chai route, the 168km Chumphon-Surat Thani route, the 189km Surat Thani-Hat Yai route, the 308km Thanon Chira Juction-Ubon Ratchathani route, the 45km Hat Yai Junction-Padang Besar route and the 189km Denchai-Chiang Mai route. Continued …

China: Benefactor or imperial menace?

Since the start of the 21st century, China has shown its desire to recapture its previous position as the world’s most powerful and influential nation. Centuries ago, China – going by the name of the “Middle Kingdom” – was the world’s most influential nation until Western European countries arrived on the shores of the Chinese empire in the early 16th century.

In addition to being forced to open up the country to foreign trade and Western religions and ideals – including those that impacted the relationship between the country’s ruler and its citizens, by the mid-19th century, China was also confronted by Western military aggression and the imposition of extra-territorial treaties. Continued …

Thai Influencer Market Soars to 45 Billion Baht Amid Digital Surge

Thailand’s influencer marketing sector has surged to 45 billion baht (US$1.3 billion) this year, marking a substantial 25%-30% increase from the previous year, according to Tellscore Co. Pioneering this growth is the demand for content spanning news, science, education, and family topics.

The beauty, tourism, gastronomy, and finance industries lead the charge in influencer spending. In stark contrast, the real estate sector has seen a decline due to the property market’s current sluggish state. Continued …

Thailand Poised to Become Southeast Asia’s E-Sports Hub

Thailand is gearing up to become a leading e-sports hub in Southeast Asia, according to Jon Lor, the manager of Riot Games Thailand. Speaking about the nation’s robust gaming community, Lor expressed optimism for Thailand’s burgeoning role in the global e-sports arena.

“From my perspective, it’s about building on the strong foundation we already have. We’ve seen incredible enthusiasm from the Thai gaming community, and that’s something we can continue to nurture,” he stated. Continued …

New travel rules: Thailand’s ETA to shake up visa-free visitors

Thailand is tightening its borders with a new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, set to launch between December this year and June 2025. This system will be mandatory for all visa-exempt foreigners entering the country by air, land, or sea.

Though not technically a visa, the ETA will act as a computerized security check, similar to the ETIAS program for Schengen countries. It’s designed to enhance security, curb illegal migration, and monitor health risks. Continued …

Hotels urged to refrain from slashing rates

Hotels in leisure destinations such as Phuket, Krabi and Pattaya should refrain from their usual practice of slashing room rates during the low season if the average occupancy hasn’t sharply dropped, says hospitality market analyst STR.

Jesper Palmqvist, senior director for Asia-Pacific at STR, said both independent and branded hotels in every segment have room to hold their rates during low-season months in order to improve their performance. Continued …

European tourism slumps amid tourist protests

Across Europe, protests against group tourism are spreading, with Spain at its centre. Local residents are unhappy with the influx of tourists and are expressing their dissatisfaction in creative and visible ways. At the same time, the anti-tourism protests could present a significant opportunity for countries like Thailand and China to position themselves as sustainable and attractive destinations for both leisure and business travellers.

In Spain, particularly in Barcelona, anti-tourism sentiment is flaring up, with residents frustrated by rising rents and commercialization in neighborhoods they feel cater more to tourists than locals.  Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Bangkok’s must-try street foods

Bangkok, Thailand’s bustling capital, is a paradise for food lovers.The city’s streets are alive with vendors serving up delicious and affordable eats at all hours.

From sweet treats to savory snacks, Bangkok’s street food scene offers an array of flavors that reflect the vibrant culture of this dynamic city. Here are five essential street foods you should not miss on your visit. Continued …

German agency to help three Thai cities tackle emission problems

Chiang Mai, Phuket and Khon Kaen will be developed into low-carbon cities for climate change mitigation under a project initiated by the German International Cooperation Agency (GIZ).

The Urban-Act: Integrated Urban Climate Action for Low-Carbon & Resilient Cities came as greenhouse gas emissions in cities accounted for 75% of total emissions, which are likely to increase due to the increasing urban populations. Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule May 3-Aug 31

FD901: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
10:20 – 11:50
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
12:20 – 13:35

FD900: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
Chiang Mai – Hua Hin
09:00 – 10:30
Hua Hin – Chiang Mai
11:00 – 12:15

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

Van/minibus service at Market Village

Vans and minibuses provide services to the following destinations:

  • Hua Hin – Mo Chit (089-919-8055) starts service at 03:50
  • Hua Hin – Kanchanaburi (085-822-6063)
  • Hua Hin – New southern line service starts at 5:40
  • Hua Hin – Rangsit (090-138-0427) service starts at 05:40
  • Hua Hin – Nakhon Pathom (088-709-2364)

The last service departs at 6pm. Departures every 25 – 40 minutes. For inquiries or reservations, call 089-9198055,090-1380427.

 

90-day online reporting

Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
  • Emergency medical – 1669
  • Highway police – 1193
  • Tourist police – 1155
  • Bus ticket – 1490
  • Department of Highways – 1586