Category Archives: pattaya

climate change, exports, hospitality, hua hin, marijuana, medical tourism, pattaya, phuket, real estate, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Wednesday’s news-Sept 4

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Please welcome our newest sponsor/An interview with Dusit Thani Hua Hin GM/Thailand wins fourth gold medal/Heavy rain forecast/Disaster Aid Australia assists flood relief/49 flood ‘danger’ spots in Phuket/PM2.5 pollution in north/Swiss man acquitted of assaulting doctor/Train Runs Over Man/Content blocking soars/Thai pilots cry foul/Anutin confident in cannabis approval/Foreigners behaving badly/Economy: Temu could intensify price war/VAT rules changed/Pattaya – ‘City of Film’/Four major Thai industries at risk/Measures to curb ultra-cheap imports/Shippers eye 5% growth/Shortage of pet vets/Thailand’s future food industry/Phuket villa launches/Market opportunities in Mideast/Tourism: Surge in Medical Tourism/Thai Airways Airbus A350 engines/Russian tourist found dead/Thailand Experience: 10 most-loved tourist attractions/Climate Thailand: CKP Joins Teach For Thailand/1.3 million kilograms of invasive fish/Waste crisis after landfill closure/Whale choked on garbage/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

Please welcome our newest sponsor:

Aree’s House and Swiss Restaurant

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Chomsin Road, 130/3, Soi 55, 77110 Hua Hin; Phone. 0325 313 53; Web; Facebook.

An interview with Dusit Thani Hua Hin’s general manager

Sharing his thoughts on what’s so special in being a hotelier, Dusit Thani Hua Hin General Manager Pipat Patthananusorn said that every day brings new challenges and the chance to make someone’s stay truly special, whether it’s through a warm welcome, a thoughtful gesture, or ensuring every detail is just right.

Dusit Thani Hua Hin recognises the importance of sustainability in preserving the environment for future generations, he says. It also is committed to implementing various green initiatives to minimize their ecological footprint and promote responsible tourism. Continued … 

Thailand wins fourth gold medal at Paralympics

Thai wheelchair fencing athlete Saysunee Jana won the fourth gold medal for Thailand in the women’s saber category B at the Paralympic Games in Paris, France on Tuesday.

The world’s No. 4, Saysunee beat the world’s No. 3 Xiao Rong from China 15 to 14. The 50-year-old Thai athlete was at a disadvantage against her 31-year-old Chinese opponent at 6-8 in the first period. However, Saysunee came back fighting, tying at 14-14 in the second period. Continued … 

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Heavy rain forecast across Thailand

Heavy rain is forecast across nearly all of Thailand, with 42 provinces, including Bangkok and its surrounding areas, expected to face severe weather. The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) warns of flash floods, overflowing waterways, and high sea waves over 3 meters.

Thunderstorms are expected in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, and Surat Thani provinces. The minimum temperature will be 23 to 25°C, and the maximum temperature will be 30 to 35°C. From Surat Thani upward, sea waves will be around 2 meters high and over 2 meters in thunderstorm areas. Continued … 

Disaster Aid Australia to assist northern Thailand flood relief

In the wake of catastrophic floods that have ravaged several provinces in northern Thailand, Disaster Aid Australia, in collaboration with Disaster Aid Thailand, has swiftly responded to provide much-needed relief to the affected communities. The floods, which have destroyed lives and property, left tens of thousands of people stranded, with limited access to food and clean water.

The Australian team, led by Rotarians Brian Ashworth and Wendy De Luca, joined forces with the Thai team, including Capt. Dol Adinan, chairman of Disaster Aid Thailand (DAT), along with Peerasan Wongsri, president of the Rotary Club of Jomtien-Pattaya and Tom Keightley, president of the Rotary Club of Pattaya-Banglamung. Continued … 

49 flood ‘danger’ spots named in Phuket

Old Phuket town is among 49 places in Phuket deemed vulnerable to flash floods or landslides, the Mineral Resources Department said on Tuesday as the tourist island battened down for another dose of bad weather.

The department identified 49 “at-risk villages”, including the old quarter and the Chartered Bank community, both popular sites in Muang district. Continued … 

Thai university working on solutions to PM2.5 pollution in north

Severe PM 2.5 pollution is having a dire effect on the environment and way of life in northern Thailand, forcing many businesses to close and leading to increased health problems. The resultant shift in the area’s social structure is of such concern that Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna (RMUTL) has made it a priority to address and reduce the impact of this deadly pollution.

Associate Prof. Uthen Kamnarn, the university’s acting president, said that RMUTL has numerous experts working on solutions for PM 2.5 dust pollution and developing innovations to address this issue. Continued … 

Swiss man in Phuket acquitted of assaulting doctor

Due to a lack of evidence, the Phuket Provincial Court acquitted a Swiss man who had been charged with assaulting a female Thai doctor when she had allegedly trespassed on his property.

The incident occurred on Feb. 24 at a pool villa housing project on Yamu Beach in Phuket. The Swiss occupant of the house, identified as David, was accused of kicking the back of Dr. Tharndao after finding her sitting on the steps leading up to his compound. The court found that there was insufficient evidence to support the assault charge and ordered his acquittal. – thaipbs.com

Train Runs Over Man in Phatthalung

In a horrifying incident, a 32-year-old man was killed after being struck by a train in Phatthalung province. The man’s wife was left in shock after discovering that her husband’s body was found decapitated near the tracks.

Local witnesses reported seeing the train stop after the collision, and the driver stated that he believed he had hit two individuals, though only one body was found at the scene. Continued … 

Government’s content blocking soars

The Digital Economy and Society Ministry (DES) has blocked 138,660 attempts to access illicit social media pages and website URLs during the past 11 months, an 11-fold increase over the same period last year.

Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong said the ministry has focused on combating cybercrime, particularly by stifling access to illicit social media platforms, pages, and URLs. An operations team has been established to check, oversee, and improve site blocking. Continued … 

Thai pilots cry foul over foreigners flying domestic routes

The Thai Pilots Assn. is raising the alarm over liberalizing pilot jobs for foreigners flying domestic routes through wet lease arrangements, claiming it risks another red flag from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

Last month, the Department of Employment talked with the association, the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand, and an airline that asked former premier Srettha Thavisin for this liberalization, which would give foreign pilots temporary permission to fly domestic routes. Continued … 

Anutin confident in new government’s cannabis approval

Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of Thailand’s Bhumjaithai Party, has expressed confidence that Thailand’s new government will back the party’s pro-cannabis stance. This marks a significant progression of the green revolution that gained momentum under former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin.

In July, an agreement was forged between Srettha and Anutin to advance a draft bill aiming to regulate cannabis for medical and research uses — a pivot from the previous stance of reclassifying cannabis as a narcotic. Continued … 

  • Tourist Complaint Busts British Man’s Illegal Botox Clinic on Koh Phangan – Continued … 
  • British Fugitive Flees UK, Found to be Boxer in Phuket – Continued … 

Temu’s presence could intensify price war

While it’s too early to gauge Chinese e-commerce giant Temu’s long-term impact on the e-commerce market in Thailand and the region, sellers may need to prepare for another price war, says market analytics firm Cube Asia.

If Temu can maintain strong incentives and a consistent low-price strategy, it has the potential to change the dynamics of regional e-commerce, just as Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop have shifted their focus toward profitability, according to Simon Torring, co-founder of Cube Asia. Continued … 

VAT rules changed for online sellers in Thailand

The Revenue Department is amending the law to require foreign online platforms to register as vendors in the value-added tax (VAT) system. There are five measures in total, one of which improves regulations to align with future commerce, particularly online trade.

Speaking after the weekly cabinet meeting, Suksit Srichomkwan, the caretaker prime minister’s deputy secretary-general for political affairs, said the cabinet expedited measures to prevent the sale of illegal goods supervised by the Commerce Ministry. Continued … 

Pattaya Pushes Forward to Become a ‘City of Film’

On Monday, The Tourist Authority of Thailand (TAT) Pattaya branch and Pattaya City hosted a large group meeting at a local hotel to drive Pattaya toward becoming the what organizers call a creative city in film. The meeting was designed to report and present the results of various activities promoting film, aligning with UNESCO guidelines for 2024.

After discussing the achievements and suggestions, the attendees assigned relevant agencies to drive film-related activities for the upcoming year of 2025. This initiative is part of Pattaya’s ongoing efforts to enhance its movie and film industry and drive tourism. Continued … 

Chinese imports putting four major Thai industries at risk

With just two months to go until the U.S. presidential election, an analyst is warning that no matter who wins, the trade war between the U.S. and China is certain to continue. However, if Donald Trump comes out on top, the impact on Thailand will be more severe, says Phiphat Luangnaruemitchai, chief economist at KKP Research, Kiatnakin Phatra Securities (KKP).

“The likelihood of increased tariffs on China is quite high. This would make Thailand a transit route for trade, and as China’s economy weakens and domestic trade declines, cheap Chinese goods will be exported to many countries, including Thailand,” Phiphat said. Continued … 

Cabinet approves 5 measures to curb ultra-cheap imports

The Cabinet on Tuesday approved five measures made up of 63 operational plans to tackle the influx of ultra-cheap and often substandard products that have been flooding Thai markets, Suksit Srichomkwan, the prime ninister’s deputy secretary-general for political affairs, said.

He said the measures were proposed by the Commerce Ministry, which had discussed with more than 50 public and private organizations ways to prevent ultra-cheap products, especially from China, from affecting both consumers and local manufacturers. Continued … 

Shippers eye 5% growth goal

The Thai National Shippers’ Council (TNSC) is calling on the prime minister to set an annual average target of 5% export growth amid risk factors such as the baht’s appreciation and ongoing geopolitical tensions.

Chaichan Chareonsuk, chairman of the TNSC, said exports are expected to rise by 1%-2% to US$290 billion or 10 trillion baht this year, as imports of capital goods increase, which will have a positive effect on exports from August to September. Continued … 

Pet businesses face shortage of vets

The pet business has a shortage of veterinarians as the segment grows and more animal hospitals and veterinary clinics open, according to Arak Animal Healthcare Co., owner of Arak Animal Hospital.

Tasavarin Kanchanachaya, chief executive of Arak Animal Healthcare, said the local pet business is becoming more competitive as new players jump into the industry. Continued … 

Thailand aims to lead in the future food industry

Thailand is striving to become a leader in the future food industry by emphasizing innovation, safety, traceability, and environmental sustainability in its products.

The Ministry of Commerce, in collaboration with the private sector, plans to transform agriculture into a growth engine to meet global demand for healthier, sustainable food. The industry is categorized into functional, medical, organic, and alternative protein foods, with 2023 exports reaching 143 billion baht. Continued … 

Phuket villa launches smash records

New villa supply launched in Phuket in the first half of 2024 surpassed total launches for the whole of 2023, with the value exceeding that of condos for the first time in 15 years, largely driven by strong demand from Russians.

Phattarachai Taweewong, director of the research department at property consultancy Colliers Thailand, said the Phuket villa market was hot and should remain so in the second half of this year. Continued … 

 

Thai businesses explore new market opportunities in Mideast

Thai entrepreneurs have hailed Iraq and Kurdistan as fertile ground for trade expansion after visiting the Middle East territories in a delegation led by the Department of International Economic Affairs. The recent mission aimed to explore trade and investment opportunities, reflecting Thailand’s proactive economic diplomacy strategy.

Supark Prongthura, Thailand’s ambassador to Jordan, said the visit aimed to expand Thai businesses’ market reach and explore the potential for new production bases in the Middle East. Continued … 

Thailand Poised to Gain from Surge in Medical Tourism

Thailand, Southeast Asia’s leading destination for medical tourism, stands to significantly benefit from a projected boom in the industry. The global medical tourism market, estimated to grow 20% annually, is expected to balloon from $103 billion to $284 billion by 2032, as reported by Bumrungrad International Hospital.

Dr Nipat Kulabkaw, co-chief executive of the hospital group, highlighted the increasing influx of patients from neighboring Southeast Asian countries and the Middle East following the pandemic. He underscored Thailand’s strong position in medical tourism, attributing it to a combination of world-class medical expertise, affordable services, and exceptional hospitality. Continued … 

Thai Airways says its Airbus A350 engines are trouble-free

Thai Airways International (THAI) is operating its fleet of Airbus A350s as usual, with no engine problems detected, said THAI President Chai Eamsiri in the wake of flight cancellations caused by faulty engines fitted on the same type of aircraft at Cathay Pacific.

The THAI president’s assurance came as Cathay Pacific Airways canceled almost all its scheduled flights from Hong Kong to Singapore yesterday, as well as a raft of other services across Asia, after discovering a faulty engine component on some of its Airbus A350s. Continued … 

Russian tourist found dead near Karon Beach, Phuket, murder suspected

A local discovered the body of a Russian man in a ditch near Karon Beach in Phuket yesterday afternoon. A fatal attack is suspected as the man had wounds all over his body.

Officers from Karon Police Station were called to investigate the death of the Russian man, later identified as 27-year-old Ilia Orlov. Forensic doctors from Vachira Phuket Hospital and officers from the Phuket Ruam Jai Rescue Foundation also participated in the investigation. Continued … 

TripAdvisor’s 10 most-loved tourist attractions in Thailand

Thailand, renowned for its welcoming visa and rich cultural diversity, has attracted the highest number of foreign tourists in Southeast Asia this year. Here is a list of the 10 most loved tourist attractions in the kingdom, as voted by Tripadvisor readers.

Wat Phra Chetuphon, commonly known as Wat Pho, topped the list as part of Tripadvisor’s 2024 Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best, based on the quantity and quality of reviews and ratings collected on its website over the past year. Continued … 

CKP Joins Teach For Thailand in ‘Kids for a Sustainable World’ Project

CKPower Public Co., one of the region’s largest producers of electricity from renewables, with one of the lowest carbon footprints, has joined forces with Teach For Thailand – the foundation, in the “Empowering Kids for a Sustainable World” project, which imparts knowledge on clean energy to Thai youths.

As part of the project, the company also installed solar panels for Udomseel Witthaya School in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya and Pak Thong Chai Chunhawan Wittayakhan School in Nakhon Ratchasima, both located near CKPower’s power plants. The solar panels will supply 18,700 watts of renewable-based electricity to the schools. Continued … 

Thailand nets 1.3 million kilograms of invasive fish

Thailand has netted more than 1.3 million kilograms of highly destructive blackchin tilapia fish, the government said Tuesday, as it battles to stamp out the invasive species.

Shoals of blackchin tilapia, which can produce up to 500 young at a time, have been found in 19 Thai provinces, damaging ecosystems in rivers, swamps and canals by preying on small fish, shrimp and snail larvae. Continued … 

Phitsanulok governor addresses waste crisis after landfill closure

Phitsanulok’s provincial governor issued an urgent directive to local government organizations to address the overflowing rubbish problem after a private landfill was closed. Residents have complained about the stench and need for a solution.

Previously, Hua Ro subdistrict submitted a request to the Ministry of Interior to establish a waste-to-energy plant, but progress has been slow. Meanwhile, some private entities have started buying household waste for 50 baht per bag to manage disposal. Continued … 

Starved dead whale choked on garbage

A pregnant whale found dead on a beach in Phuket on Monday had choked to death after ingesting large amounts of floating garbage. The dead whale was found on Bang Tao beach in tambon Choeng Thale of Thalang district on Monday morning.

The Upper Andaman Marine and Coastal Resources Research Center said it was a fully grown 2.24-meter-long female Dwarf Sperm Whale. It was found to be pregnant, carrying a 50-centimeter-long male calf. 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
baht, bangkok, climate change, hua hin, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thailand, thailand festivals, tourism, transportation

Tuesday’s news-Sept 3

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While sharing the daily news with thousands of expats in Thailand is the main task of Hua Hin Expat News, what we like best are the stories about Thailand that are featured every day in our “Thailand Experience” section. These features provide useful and interesting information about Thailand’s places to visit, the country’s culture, its people and its food. Today’s section is no exception, with reports about Krabi, eastern Thailand, Phuket’s Vegetarian Festival (where they poke spears through their mouths), and train rides just for fun. Check it out!

Hua Hin Soi 80 shooting/Artist Village Contemporary Art Festival/’Old District, Telling Stories’ event/Crab Release Walk and Run/Driver Trapped Underneath Road Roller/Resort helps plant 500 new mangroves/Thailand braces for heavy rain/Flood damages/Big Buddha Temple in Phuket Closed/Tall building deaths need scrutiny/Thai man walks over 200km to hospital/Bangkok Methanol Poisoning/Koh Chang Bridge/New PM under fire/8 police officers fired/License plates bring in 61 million baht/Buriram burglar leaves apology/Phuket auto mechanic wins lottery/Economy: Baht weakens/Private investment falls sharply/Thai businesses pulling out of Myanmar/Thailand’s land bridge/IEAT sets new record/Thailand’s Most Powerful Brands/Tourism: What’s Gastro-Diplomacy/Illegal Foreign Tour Guides/Triples levy on international tourists/Thailand Experience: Hidden corners of Thailand by rail/Underrated Jewels of Eastern Thailand/Your Next Thai Escape/The Phuket Vegetarian Festival/Climate Thailand: Journey To Circular Economy/Win Process ordered to pay Bt1.7 billion/B.Grimm’s sustainable energy future/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

Five police officers removed after fatal Hua Hin Soi 80 shooting

Continued …

Artist Village Contemporary Art Festival Sept 6-8

Continued …

‘Old District, Telling Stories’ event in PKK through Sept 14

Continued …

Crab Release Walk and Run Sept 7

Continued …

Driver Trapped Underneath Overturned Road Roller in Prachuap Khiri Khan

Rescue teams responded to a distress call regarding an accident involving a steamroller at Village No. 6, Baan Bo Phai, in Sai Thong subdistrict, Bang Saphan Noi District, Prachuap Khiri Khan. The incident prompted a swift response from emergency services, including rescue teams equipped with cutting tools, as well as an ambulance and medical personnel from Bang Saphan Noi Hospital.

Upon arriving at the scene, rescue workers discovered an overturned road roller with its driver trapped underneath. The driver was pinned by the vehicle’s steel frame, which had fallen across his hip and right leg. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Wyndham Hua Hin Pranburi Resort helps plant 500 new mangroves

Staff and executives from the Wyndham Hua Hin Pranburi Resort & Villas joined with local community members and the Office of Marine and Coastal Resources to plant 500 mangroves along the Pranburi River.

This initiative underscores the resort’s commitment to environmental conservation and promoting sustainable tourism practices. By planting mangroves, participants aim to enhance the local ecosystem, protect communities from river overflow or erosion, and support marine life habitats. Continued …

Thailand braces for heavy rain and high waves over next three days

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued a warning for heavy to very heavy rainfall in various regions of Thailand, which will occur through the next three days.

A moderate monsoon trough will traverse the lower northern, lower northeastern, central, eastern, and southern parts of the country, moving into a strong low-pressure system over the central South China Sea. Continued …

Thai chamber warns flood damages may exceed 10 billion baht

The Thai Chamber of Commerce (TCC) raised alarms over the economic repercussions of the ongoing floods in northern Thailand. Should the flooding persist for another month, financial damage could surpass 10 billion baht, officials warn.

Estimates from the TCC and the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce reveal that if conditions improve within the next two weeks, the current flooding in the north would still result in damages amounting to approximately 8 billion baht, or 0.05% of GDP, said TCC Chairman Sanan Angubolkul yesterday. Continued …

Big Buddha Temple in Phuket Closed Amid Forest Encroachment Probe

The Big Buddha Temple in Phuket’s Karon district has come under scrutiny, halting all activities amid an investigation into its potential encroachment on national forest reserves. This follows a tragic mudslide on Aug. 23 that claimed 13 lives near the mountain’s base.

Authorities displayed “Stop” and “No Entry” signs at the temple entrance, per an order from the Phuket Sangha office. The temple’s abbot had already been instructed to cease all construction activities on Khao Nark Kerd Mountain, where the 45-meter-tall, white marble-covered Big Buddha statue stands. Continued … 

Rising number of tall building deaths need scrutiny

The increasingly frequent deaths involving high buildings and falls are leading to such stories barely registering as news in Thailand anymore. Indeed, in recent years, the reporting of such incidents increasingly leaves out key details. For instance, the identities of victims and the progress of police inquiries.

In particular, regarding foreigners, consular officials at embassies are also less likely to offer explanations to the press. Undoubtedly, many cases involve misadventure and, increasingly, suicide. Nonetheless, some of the cases may also be crimes or accidents that require the spotlight of public scrutiny. Continued …

Thai man walks over 200km to hospital for daughter’s treatment

A Thai man walked over 200 kilometers to take his one-year-old daughter, who suffers from heart disease and a severe lung infection, to a hospital in Chiang Mai‘s city center. A rescue team came to his aid after observing him weeping by the roadside.

The rescuer from the Nopparat Rescue Foundation in Chiang Mai offered a free ride to the 24-year-old single father and his daughter on Friday, after witnessing the man sitting and crying because he could not afford a trip back home. Continued …

Eighth Fatality in Bangkok Methanol Poisoning

The methanol poisoning crisis in Bangkok has claimed its eighth victim, with five others still on ventilators. The situation continues to develop, with health officials and police working to trace the source and prevent more casualties. The latest death occurred at Kasemrad Ramkhamhaeng Hospital, with the patient already in critical condition upon arrival.

The Department of Medical Services and the Department of Disease Control have confirmed that a total of 44 people have been affected by the deadly methanol poisoning. Out of these, 30 have recovered, but eight have lost their lives. Continued …

Four routes under consideration for Koh Chang Bridge

The Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT) has initiated a series of public hearings regarding the proposed bridge connecting the mainland to Koh Chang Island, a popular destination in Trat province. The first hearing, held yesterday, in Mueang district, garnered widespread support from locals and business owners.

Participants expressed a strong preference for the bridge to guide travelers through the Mueang district, emphasizing the potential economic benefits of this business hub in eastern Thailand. Two of the proposed routes align with this request, which would facilitate increased commerce and tourism in the area. Continued …

New PM under fire, lawsuits challenge her election

Paetongtarn Shinawatra could lose her position as prime minister and leader of the Pheu Thai party following new lawsuits linked to the impeachment of her predecessor, Srettha Thavisin, last month. Paetongtarn, daughter of Pheu Thai’s de facto leader Thaksin Shinawatra, is under intense scrutiny. Fresh lawsuits have been filed with the Constitutional Court via the Election Commission, seeking her removal from office.

The lawsuits claim that Thaksin orchestrated her appointment and that she did not adhere to constitutional and political party laws. These legal actions also call for the dissolution of the Pheu Thai party, the main faction in the current coalition government. Continued …

8 police officers fired for alleged involvement with gambling website

National Police chief Torsak Sukvimol on Monday issued an order removing eight police officers from their duties for alleged involvement in online gambling websites linked to Suchanun “Minnie” Sucharitchinsri, an influential figure in Loei province.

The order alleged that the eight officers committed severe disciplinary violations through their involvement in criminal case no. 468/2566, which saw the perpetrators charged with money laundering offenses by the Thung Maha Mek Police Station. Continued …

‘Vanity’ license plates bring in 61 million baht at auction

The Department of Land Transport (DLT) has earned 61 million baht by auctioning off 49 special license plates that display auspicious words like “success” and “windfall”.

Jirut Wisaljit, DLT director-general, said the auction on Saturday drew interest from many motorists and the department successfully sold 49 license plates with Thai words believed to make the owners lucky or successful. Continued …

Buriram burglar leaves apology after shop break-ins

Police arrested an apologetic man who broke into several shops in Buriram to steal money and mobile phones, before leaving an apology note for his crimes. The suspect, 31-year-old Witawat, confessed he needed the money to support his family.

Yesterday, Police Col. Jamras Siriliang from Buriram City Police Station led Witawat to reenact his crimes after victims reported multiple break-ins in Buriram. He pointed out the locations where he had stolen tools from a construction supply shop. Continued …

Phuket auto mechanic wins 30 million in lottery

Phuket’s newest millionaire is none other than a chief mechanic, who struck gold in the government lottery’s latest draw.

Jirasak “Ton” Saewun, who works at Anuphas Ford in Phuket, scooped 30 million baht after hitting the jackpot with five first-prize tickets. The winning numbers, announced by the Government Lottery Office, were 199606. Other lucky numbers included 173, 220, 094, 388, and the 2-digit number 94. Continued …

Baht weakens as China falters

The baht led Asian currencies that weakened against the dollar on Monday on a faltering Chinese economy, with analysts suggesting the baht could be on a depreciating trend for the remaining months of this year if the U.S. Federal Reserve (Fed) cuts rates by less than the 1% reduction anticipated by the market this year.

The baht slipped 0.5% to below 34.20 baht to the dollar on Monday, compared to the 13-month high of 33.85 last Friday, as emerging Asian currencies also weakened against the greenback. Continued … 

Private investment falls sharply in Q2

Private investment contracted significantly in the second quarter, primarily due to a decline in investment in commercial vehicles as financial institutions tightened lending, according to the Finance Ministry.

A source from the Finance Ministry who requested anonymity said private investment, particularly in machinery and equipment, including land vehicles, dropped significantly in the second quarter. Continued …

Thai businesses pulling out of Myanmar amid sluggish economy

Thai business operators have been gradually moving their investments out of Myanmar as the sluggish economy in Thailand’s western neighbor, which has continued for almost four years, shows no sign of improving.

Myanmar’s economy has been on the downward trend since the Covid-19 outbreak, and was worsened by the military coup in 2021, as well as ongoing conflicts between the junta government and ethnic groups. Continued …

Bill to get southern Thailand’s land bridge going

The southern land bridge megaproject will move forward, as the government is currently drafting the Southern Economic Corridor (SEC) bill, which is required for the project to continue, Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit said on Monday.

The one-trillion-baht project, which will see a shipping shortcut and various supporting infrastructure built to connect Ranong and Chumphon in the south, will carve out an alternative route for cargo ships heading from the Andaman Sea to the Gulf of Thailand and vice versa. The government is hoping the new shipping lane will not only cut journey times but also stimulate the south’s economy. Continued …

IEAT sets new record in selling, leasing land in industrial estates

The Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT) said it has hit a new record in selling or leasing land in fiscal 2024. A total of 6,174 rai (987.84 hectares) of land in IEAT-managed industrial estates has been sold or leased between October 2023 and July 2024.

IEAT Gov. Veeris Ammarapala said on Monday that this marks the second consecutive year of record-breaking transactions, attributing the continued high demand to its efforts to enhance services for foreign investors. Continued …

University Honors Thailand’s Most Powerful Brands

The Department of Marketing at Chulalongkorn Business School hosted the “Most Powerful Brands of Thailand 2024” awards ceremony, recognizing excellence across 29 product categories.

This event represents the most extensive brand survey in Thailand. The brand strength ranking is part of ongoing research conducted by the department every two years. This year marks the 7th edition. Continued …

What’s Gastro-Diplomacy and What Does it Have to Do with Thai Food?

There’s no shortage of ways humans use culture to establish connections. The Olympics, for example, bring the world together through the shared pastime of athletics. Even popular fashion weeks and international film festivals could be studied through a lens of intercultural exchange.

But let’s focus on a tastier option, one that explores culture through something known as gastro-diplomacy, aka culinary diplomacy. Have you heard someone say that the fastest way to a man’s heart is through his stomach? It’s like that, except gastro-diplomacy also touches on political topics like foreign relations and recreational topics like travel. Continued …

Thai Guides Demand Crackdown on Illegal Foreign Tour Guides

The Professional Tourist Guide Association of Thailand, led by Paisan Suethanuwong, along with over 50 witnesses, including tour guides and tour operators, submitted a petition yesterday to the chairman of the Tour Business and Guide Committee at the Ministry of Tourism and Sports.

The petition calls for a crackdown on illegal guides and tour operations in all languages, as the guide profession is reserved exclusively for Thai nationals. Continued …

New Zealand nearly triples levy on international tourists

New Zealand will nearly triple entry fees for tourists, the government said today, spurring criticism from the key tourism sector the higher levy will deter visitors.

The government said in a statement it would increase the international visitor and conservation and tourism fees starting on Oct. 1 to NZ$100 (US$62.20) from NZ$35 to “ensure visitors contribute to public services and high-quality experiences while visiting New Zealand.” Continued …

Escape Bangkok and explore these hidden corners of Thailand by rail

Thailand’s improvements to its train lines are rolling out year on year, with international links opening and national lines getting swifter. Whether you live in Bangkok or are traveling around the kingdom on a holiday or sabbatical, making the most of the trains here is something we don’t do in Thailand as often as we should, with domestic flights and long haul buses being so cheap.

But there’s a lot to be said for the stress-free, scenic routes of the Thai railways, which are low cost and extremely reliable. Here are four train trips to take from Bangkok, including to Hua Hin, starting at Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station. Continued …

The Underrated Jewels of Eastern Thailand

Stunning beaches, tropical fruit orchards, charming old town streets, national parks and even gem fields – eastern Thailand seems to have it all. Yet, with the exception of Pattaya, the whole region is often overlooked by travelers despite being easily accessible from Bangkok and Suvarnabhumi International Airport.

Throughout history, the east has held significance for its flourishing trade routes, which led to places like Chanthaburi and Rayong seeing Vietnamese and Chinese descendants migrating and settling in as early as the Rattanakosin era. These developments, along with an influx of foreign traders, resulted in multicultural influences that can be seen in the locals’ way of life, from architecture to gastronomy. Continued …

This Cheap Tropical Paradise Should Be Your Next Thai Escape

There’s one Thai province that’s super cheap and far too often overlooked as a premiere destination. Better yet, it’s a gateway to some of the country’s most pristine islands, where you can experience endless blissful beach days sprawled out like a starfish without the fear of being stepped on.

Krabi is on southern Thailand’s west coast. Its broad natural diversity, with its eye-popping colors, otherworldly landscapes, and limestone formations, instantly captures visitors. From lush forestry and mysterious caves to vivid blue waters, even Stevie Wonder could see this slice of Heaven on Earth. Continued …

Everything You Need To Know About The Phuket Vegetarian Festival

Thailand’s largest island Phuket is an idyllic tourist hotspot. People come to relax on its world-class white-gold beaches, to see the Big Buddha statue, to stroll through the Sino-Portuguese architectural style of the Old Town and to visit the nearby Phi Phi Islands, to name a few attractions.

The culinary heritage of the island is also a big draw, reflecting a time when European, Chinese, Indian, Singaporean, Malaysian and Muslim traders did a brisk trade with the region and left their mark on the cuisine. In this UNESCO City of Gastronomy, pork rules and soy sauce is prized over fish sauce, likely the result of Hokkien and Cantonese Chinese people putting down roots from Malaysia. Continued …

Thailand’s Journey Toward a Circular Economy

Thailand is making significant strides toward a sustainable future with its commitment to a circular economy. This innovative approach emphasizes the importance of reusing resources to minimize waste and maximize value, moving away from the traditional take-make-dispose model.

The circular economy model is based on the pillars of production and consumption through leasing, reusing, repairing, renewing, and recycling existing materials and products for as long as possible. Continued …

Win Process ordered to pay Bt1.7 billion for environmental rehabilitation

The Rayong Provincial Court ordered the Win Process Co. to pay 1.7 billion baht in compensation for the rehabilitation of the environment damaged by industrial waste leaked from the company’s storage facility since 2011.

The civil lawsuit was brought against Win Process by the Pollution Control Department (PCD) after it discovered that the company had breached the law by not recycling hazardous waste, but had discharged the waste into the environment instead, damaging farmland and contaminating natural watercourses. Continued …

B.Grimm Power drives Thailand’s sustainable energy future

As a leading corporation in the energy sector, B.Grimm Power leverages advanced technology, promotes renewable energy, and implements ESG (environmental, social, and governance) practices to drive green transformation. At the heart of this strategy is a commitment to creating a greener, more sustainable future for Thailand and the region.

In recent times, the company has dedicated significant effort and resources to developing its business in tandem with sustainability, environmental preservation, and community care. B.Grimm Power has implemented various projects to promote and drive its green and sustainable strategies forward. 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
baht, bangkok, hua hin, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai economy, thai food, thailand, tourism, transportation

Monday’s news-Sept 2

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Triple murder shocks Prachuap Khiri Khan/PKK vehicles have overdue taxes/Heavy rainfall expected/Thailand braces for severe monsoon rains/Royal Blossom train/Khao Sam Roi Yat water activites resume/Hua Hin Music Contest/Hua Hin snooker event/PKK TikTok video contest/PKK athelete wins bronze/Preparing for the worst/Temple land in Phuket seized/30-million-baht lottery prize/Dogs kill man in Lopburi/’Dodgy’ types buying up land/Call to fill in sea areas/Man severely injured by landmine/Foreigners behaving badly/Economy: Vegetable prices surge/Sea chang sees baht rise/Digital money handout in two weeks/Land bridge on track/10 urgent crises/Raise Tax for Foreign Condo Buyers/Used car buyers benefiting/Thai silk a national asset/To lift motorcycle sales/Tourism: Tourists Warned About Fake Driving Licenses/12 million foreign arrivals expected/Ready again for tourists after floods/Tourism bucks economic decline/Merdeka Day boosts southern Thai economy/Tourists face legal trouble for fishing/Three new expos/Thailand Experience: 7 things that are prohibited/Revolutionizing Thai Agriculture/Best Southern Thai Restaurants In Bangkok/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

 

Triple murder shocks Prachuap Khiri Khan community

A brutal triple murder in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province has left a community in shock. A pregnant woman, her daughter, and her husband were found murdered in separate locations. Police believe the motive was robbery.

Police received a report yesterday about the discovery of the bodies of a 38-year-old pregnant woman and her seven-year-old daughter in their home in Huai Yang, Thap Sakae district. The police coordinated with medical professionals and investigative units before heading to the scene to conduct a thorough examination. Continued …

One-third of PKK vehicles have overdue taxes

Continued …

Heavy rainfall expected for Hua Hin all week

Continued …

 

Thailand braces for severe monsoon rains and potential flash floods

The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) issued a weather warning for today, predicting severe monsoon rains across 51 provinces, with 80% of Bangkok set to experience heavy rainfall. Citizens are advised to brace for potential flash floods.

The TMD forecasts that a monsoon trough will traverse the northern and northeastern regions of Thailand, extending to a low-pressure area in the central South China Sea. Coupled with a moderate southwestern monsoon over the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand, this weather pattern will lead to increased rainfall and isolated heavy showers. Continued …

Royal Blossom train offering special Bangkok-Hua Hin round trips in September

Ekkarat Sriarayanpong, chief of the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) governor’s office, announced that SRT invites travelers to be part of a special journey with the “Royal Blossom” train, to experience the charm of Hua Hin in a classic style.

The Bangkok-Hua Hin-Bangkok route offers a one-day trip in September on every Saturday and Sunday, with a total of eight trips on Sept. 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28 and 29. Continued …

Khao Sam Roi Yot water activites resume

Continued …

 

 

Hua Hin Music Contest winners announced

Continued …

Pasakorn wins Hua Hin snooker event

Continued …

 

PKK TikTok video contest winners announced

Continued …

PKK athelete wins bronze at Paris Paralympics

Continued …

Preparing for the worst as flood waters head south

The severe flooding in northern Thailand has sparked fears over the potential for similar damage in the central plains, the heart of the nation’s economy, as experts warn of the possibility of further floods over the next 60 days.

Forecasts suggest Thailand will experience more torrential rain and storms between September and October, with a greater risk of “rain bombs” falling on certain areas, according to climate hazard specialist Seree Supratid, who is also chairman of the executive committee at FutureTales Lab, a research center on future planning under property developer Magnolia Quality Development Corp. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Temple land in Phuket seized after deadly landslides

The Royal Forest Department (RFD) on Saturday seized about 5 rai of land at the top of Nak Koet hill in Phuket believed to be linked to the Aug. 23 landslides that killed 13 people.

Phuket’s Royal Forest Center said the land, located in the Wat Phra Yai temple ground, was part of a reserve forest. An investigation found a car park was built in the monastery area without permission. Continued …

Surin teacher wins 30-million-baht lottery prize

A new millionaire has emerged in Surin after scooping a 30-million-baht lottery prize in the Sept. 1 draw. The lucky individual secured the first prize of the government lottery with five winning tickets.

Surin has once again lived up to its reputation as the “first-prize province.” Almost every lottery draw sees a winner from this region, and the latest draw is no exception. Continued …

3 dogs attack, kill man in Lopburi

An 18-year-old man was found dead on his bed after being attacked by three dogs. The gruesome discovery was made by his mother and older brother, who returned home to find his lifeless body covered in bite marks, with blood splatters throughout the house.

The incident occurred on Saturday, according to Police Lit. Nattapong Wongwang, an investigator from Tha Hin Police Station in Lopbur. The police, along with a medical team and rescue workers from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation, rushed to the scene. Continued … 

‘Dodgy’ types buying up land on Koh Chang island

National parks chief Chaiwat Limlikhit-aksorn has expressed concern about an increase in land acquisitions on Koh Chang in Trat province by investors with suspected links to shady businesses.

Chaiwat, who serves as the director of the National Parks Office under the Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation Center, said private investors have bought large areas of land from locals. Continued …

Call to fill in sea areas to combat erosion

The idea of building a new city out of filling sea areas of about 300,000 rai, from Samut Prakan’s tambon Pak Nam of Muang district to the mouth of Tha Chin River in Samut Sakhon, is gaining momentum, with some experts backing the idea.

The proposed land reclamation project will also double as a key mechanism for preventing Bangkok from being submerged by floodwater, while curbing the worsening coastal erosion in Bangkok’s Bang Khunthian district, situated between Samut Prakan and Samut Sakhon. Continued …

Man severely injured by landmine while foraging bamboo shoots

A man searching for bamboo shoots suffered severe injuries after stepping on a landmine in Lopburi. He managed to call his son before losing consciousness, revealing broken bones and severe wounds.

Rescue units were alerted yesterday about a man who had stepped on a landmine at the foot of a mountain in Khao Sam Yot subdistrict, Mueang district, Lopburi. Police officers from Mueang Lopburi Station, along with volunteers from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation, promptly arrived at the scene. Continued …

Russian and Ukrainian Nationals Arrested for Illegal Car Rentals

Continued …

Flooding disrupts Thai agriculture, vegetable prices surge

Flooding in several provinces across Thailand has led to significant disruptions in the supply of agricultural products, prompting the Commerce Ministry to closely monitor price movements. According to Wattanasak Sur-iam, director-general of the Internal Trade Department, the floods have reduced supply, causing a noticeable increase in vegetable prices compared to last week.

Hom mali paddy rice is currently priced at approximately 16,050 baht per ton, white paddy rice at 11,300 baht per ton, and sticky paddy rice at 13,900 baht per ton. Tapioca is quoted at 2.95 baht per kilogram, maize (with a moisture level of 14.5%) at 11.4 baht per kg, and oil palm at 6.5 baht per kg. Continued …

Sea change in US markets sees baht rise sharply

The Thai baht made a resounding comeback against the U.S. dollar in the last week. In short, it ended last week 9.81% up on the dollar since May 1. The rise comes with a sea change in financial sentiment sparked by weakening U.S. data.

Suddenly, funds are flowing back to Asia, with a recovery seen in Bangkok’s Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET). However, the Thai economy has a widening range of structural problems. The latest is the loss of competitiveness impacting its badly damaged manufacturing sector. At length, the economy is expected to eke out growth of 2.5% in 2024. Continued …

Thailand to launch digital money handout in two weeks

The coalition government is set to initiate its policy implementation, including the digital money handout scheme, in two weeks, according to caretaker Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai.

However, Phumtham did not specify when the revised Cabinet lineup will be submitted for royal endorsement. He indicated that nominations from all coalition parties had been reviewed by state organizations and forwarded to the Secretariat of the Cabinet (SoC) and the Council of State (CoS), the government’s legal arm, for final review. Continued …

Land bridge on track, Transport Ministry confirms

The Pheu Thai-led government is fully committed to the land bridge project and is working to bring it to fruition, with the aim of maximizing benefits for the people and the country and promoting sustainable economic growth, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Suriya Juangroongruangkit, confirmed.

In his update on the project, which connects the Gulf of Thailand to the Andaman Sea, he noted that the Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning (OTP) is currently preparing a draft bill for the Southern Economic Corridor (SEC) to be reviewed by the Special Economic Zone Policy Committee (SEZPC). Once approved by the Cabinet, the draft will proceed to the House of Representatives and is expected to come into effect by September 2025. Continued …

Leading academic outlines 10 urgent crises waiting for new government

A well-known political scientist from Chulalongkorn University on Sunday warned that the new government of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra will face 10 immediate problems that would need urgent attention.

Prof Emeritus Dr Surachart Bamrungsuk enumerated the following 10 immediate issues:

Climate change: Surachat said the current floods in the north were an example of the climate change issue. Continued …

Expert Urges Government To Raise Tax for Foreign Condo Buyers

Agency for Real Estate Affairs (AREA) points to the trend toward foreign ownership: a new post-COVID peak will be reached in 2024. It is estimated that 5,700 units will be transferred by the end of this year, surpassing the 1,000-5,000 units that weretransferred annually in 2020-2023.

The government has been recommended to collect taxes from foreign property buyers in four areas: “transfer, property tax, inheritance and capital gains” with higher rates than for Thai citizens, ranging from 1%-20% or 10,000 to 200,000 baht per million baht. Continued …

Buyers benefiting from used car market

Just as automakers are encountering a tough time selling new cars in Thailand, used car dealers are also struggling to increase sales.

The second-hand car market turned sluggish in the first half of 2024. Though the situation is expected to improve in the latter half, used car sales are likely to face a downturn again in 2025, according to industry leaders. Continued …

Thai silk promotion encouraged

Thai silk is a national asset that should be promoted to help the kingdom raise its profile on the international stage, according to caretaker Culture Minister Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol over the weekend.

Speaking at the 13th edition of Thai Silk: Road to the World 2024, jointly organized by the Culture Ministry and the Association of Thai Silk and Culture Promotion, Sudawan on Saturday said the government will continue to promote Thai cultural products on the global stage in an effort to boost the economy. Continued …

Tourism uptick expected to lift motorcycle sales

A more active tourism sector later this year is expected to lift the domestic motorcycle market, which struggled with sluggish sales during the first seven months of 2024, says the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).

The number of foreign tourist arrivals continues to increase and should reach the target of 36.7 million this year, which will drive up motorcycle demand in the country, said Surapong Paisitpatanapong, vice chairman of the FTI and spokesman for its Automotive Industry Club. Continued …

Tourists Warned Against Buying Fake Driving Licenses

In a recent advisory, Thailand’s Land Transport Department has cautioned foreign tourists against purchasing driving licenses from illegal websites. This warning comes in the wake of a concerning Facebook post that created a stir by falsely claiming a Chinese woman obtained a Thai driving license without knowing how to drive, allegedly with the help of an agent.

The controversial Facebook post showcased a photo of the woman’s driving license, claiming, “She lives in Chiang Mai and got a Thai driving license even though she never learnt how to drive. She just paid an agent to help her get the Thai permit.” This prompted the department to conduct an investigation. Continued … 

More than 12 million foreign arrivals expected before end of year

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) estimates that 12.22 million foreign tourists will visit Thailand in the last four months of 2024, pushing the total for the year to nearly 36 million, surpassing the target of at least 35 million. Revenue from international markets is expected to reach 1.8 trillion baht.

TAT Gov. Thapanee Kiatphaibool says the foreign tourism market in the last four months of 2024 is showing signs of improvement compared to the same period last year. It is expected that 12,226,500 foreign tourists will visit, a 20% increase and generating 652.826 billion baht in revenue, 29% more than the same period in 2023. This figure is close to the target set for the last four months of 2024, achieving 97% of the revenue target of 673.738 billion baht. Continued …

Three Northern provinces said ready again for tourists after floods

The Tourism and Sports Ministry said on Friday that the three provinces of Chiang Rai, Sukhothai and Phitsanulok, which had been hit by flooding this month, are now 100% ready to welcome tourists.

During a meeting of the ministry’s committee on the flood situation, Tourism and Sports Minister Sermsak Pongpanich said a survey has confirmed that tourist attractions and entrepreneurs in these provinces are fully ready for visitors to return. Continued …

Tourism bucks northern Thailand’s Q2 economic decline

The economy in northern Thailand slowed in the second quarter, marking a slight decrease from Q1 due to the high cost of living and lack of economic stimulus programs, said Pornvipa Tangcharoenmonkong, the northern office director of the Bank of Thailand (BoT). She said all sectors of the northern region’s economy were experiencing a downturn – except the tourism industry.

Pornvipa said this has kept growing, as evidenced by the increasing number of Thai and foreign tourists, especially during festivals and long holidays. Some airlines and transport companies have expanded their services to meet the higher tourist demand, resulting in higher hotel occupancy rates in the north. Continued …

Malaysia’s Merdeka Day surge boosts southern Thai economy

A surge in tourists to Thailand’s southern region during Malaysia’s National Day, known as Merdeka Day, was expected to contribute about 100 million baht to the local economy.

More than 13,000 Malaysian tourists passed through Songkhla’s Sadao checkpoint on Saturday, and about 5,000 others arrived via the Betong checkpoint in Yala to spend their long holiday in Thailand, according to local officials. Continued …

Tourists face legal trouble for fishing in Khao Yai National Park

Khao Yai National Park has sought police action against two tourists who were filmed fishing in the park in Nakhon Nayok province over the weekend.

Chaiya Huayhongthong, the chief of the national park, said that the duo would face two charges, including hunting. The penalties for these offenses could include a jail term of up to five years and/or a fine not exceeding Bt500,000. Continued …

Explore tourism-related opportunities at three new expos this week in Bangkok

To accommodate the growth of the tourism industry in Thailand and other ASEAN member countries, three international expositions – Vend Asean 2024, Thailand Amusement & Attraction Parks Expo (TAAPE) 2024 and ASEAN Patio Pool Spa Expo 2024 – will be held under the same roof at Impact Exhibition Hall 5-6, Muang Thong Thani, running daily from 10am to 6pm until Thursday.

Presented by Guangdong Grandeur International Exhibition Group and Compass Exhibition, this will be a platform to discover trustworthy suppliers and explore opportunities in the fields of swimming pools, spas, saunas, amusement parks, water parks, parks and tourist attractions. Continued …

7 things that are prohibited by law to bring in or out of Thailand

If you’re travelling to Thailand, think warm weather, beaches, great street food to explore and shopping to consider as your workout. However, don’t let the laid-back vibe fool you — Thailand’s customs regulations are strict.

While packing, you need to keep in mind the country’s strict rules against sneaking in fake goods, explicit materials, or large amounts of undeclared foreign currency. Carrying over USD $20,000? Declare it or face a fine. Bringing Thai baht out of the country has its own set of limits — 500,000 baht for neighboring countries and a permit for more. Continued …

Cultivating Change: The 17-Year-Old Innovator Revolutionizing Thai Agriculture

In the lush farmlands of Thailand, a quiet revolution is taking place, spearheaded by an unlikely innovator: 17-year-old (Win) Chawinthorn Akkaratatta. This young visionary is bridging the gap between traditional farming practices in Thailand and modern technology, empowering small-scale farmers with the likes of both engineering and economics.

Win’s journey began on his father’s durian farm in Chanthaburi province. It was through his observation of local farmers applying home-made fertilizer haphazardly that he realized the inefficiencies and need for a scientific approach to farming. Continued …

Best Southern Thai Restaurants In Bangkok

Let it be known that Thai cuisine isn’t monolithic in nature, and spans a multitude of different flavors throughout various regions. The southern part of the country is especially recognizable for its predilection toward more potent, spice-forward flavors. If you’re ever curious to venture forth and explore, then try out the best southern Thai restaurants in Bangkok today.

Thai food varies a lot throughout the regions, but the spice is what holds us together. The south of Thailand gets a lot of influences from Malaysia and Indonesia, and the abundance of fresh ingredients grown locally also add another dimension to the dishes. From the rich yellow curry to the heat-filled khua kling, these southern Thai restaurants in Bangkok bring in all the right notes that have our tastebuds dancing straight to the city. 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, climate change, hua hin, marijuana, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s news-Aug 29

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Hua Hin beach sparks ‘trash art’/Pala-u waterfall to reopen/Deluge expected/Phuket’s Big Buddha Foundation under fire/Collapsed High-Speed Rail Tunnel/Women track down alleged molester/Moonshine poisoning/20,000 counterfeit items discovered/Economy: Plan for 13 mega projects/Deficit with China/Income tax cuts/Tourism: Tourism losses from floods/To make Suvarnabhumi regional hub/2 million South Korean tourists/UK warns not to smuggle pot/Thailand Experience: Thailand shopping guide/Sightseeing in Songkhla/Climate Thailand: Thailand’s Renewable Energy Roadmap/Changan’s major overseas EV production base/Hyundai allocates Bt1 bllion/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

Walk on Hua Hin beach sparks ‘trash art’ effort

During the Covid-19 lockdown, Jarupatcha Achavasmit, a lecturer at the School of Architecture, Art, and Design at King Mongkut Institute of Technology Ladkrabang, spent her time in Hua Hin. While walking along the beaches, she noticed that the waves were washing up trash.

She assumed that it was the way the sea returned unwanted items to humans. She felt sorry for the sea and decided to help it by turning the trash it spat back at humans into art pieces. Continued … 

PKK ranks 5th in domestic tourism in June

Continued …

Pala-u waterfall to reopen Sept 1

Continued …

 

 

Deluge expected with two storms on radar

Thailand is expected to face two storms from September to October, bringing heavy rainfall across various regions, according to the Meteorological Department. Thanasit Iam-ananchai, the department’s deputy chief, said two direct storms are forecast to affect the country during these two months.

He said there is no storm affecting Thailand at the moment and persistent rainfall causing runoff and flooding in the northern region and the upper part of the northeastern region is due to the monsoon weather system. Continued …

Phuket’s Big Buddha Foundation under fire for deadly landslide

The Phuket Big Buddha Foundation faces serious allegations from the Forest Department involving land encroachment, after a tragic mudslide last week at Khao Nak Kerd claimed 13 lives, mostly Myanmar nationals.

Officials from various local authorities, including the Forest Department and Phuket Buddhism Office, recently inspected the Big Buddha site to ascertain if it complied with the 2.4-hectare land limit established by the Forest Department. Using GPS technology, they discovered the site extends over 3.2 hectares, far exceeding the permitted area. This extra space reportedly accommodates parking, restrooms, and other amenities. Continued …

No Survivors Reached Yet in Collapsed High-Speed Rail Tunnel

The Incident Command Center for the collapsed high-speed rail tunnel has issued an update on the search and rescue operations, which steps back from the statements made late yesterday evening that the first worker had been rescued.

The Chinese engineering team has been continuously strengthening and reinforcing support structures to allow rescue workers to safely search in areas where victims are believed to be trapped. Continued … 

Thai women track down alleged molester, call police

In a disturbing incident that has raised serious concerns about the safety of ride-sharing services, a Bolt driver was arrested for molesting two young women on separate occasions. The suspect, identified as Seksan S, 47, was taken into custody by police from Banglamung Police Station on Aug. 27.

The first victim, a 15-year-old girl referred to as Miss Am, recounted her ordeal to the media. On Aug. 25 around 4:30 a.m., she called a white Toyota Vios through the Bolt app. She requested a ride from Soi 17, Pattaya Second Road, to her destination in Soi Nong Ket Yai. Despite sitting in the back seat, the driver instructed her to move to the front seat. Continued …

Two more deaths from moonshine poisoning

Two more deaths have taken the toll in Bangkok’s moonshine methanol scare to six, as investigators widen their search for those producing and selling the deadly rotgut beyond the city’s northern suburbs.

Dr. Pairoj Surattanawanich, deputy director-general of the Department of Medical Services, said on Wednesday that two more drinkers had died from the effects of methanol intoxication on Tuesday. One had died in hospital after earlier being resuscitated, and the other died at home. Continued …

20,000 counterfeit items discovered in Bangkok mall raid

The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) raided 11 shops and warehouses in a prominent Bangkok shopping mall, uncovering over 20,000 counterfeit items with an estimated value of 20 million baht.

The operation took place on Tuesday, following reports of shops allegedly selling and storing counterfeit goods. The raid targeted specific locations in the Pathum Wan district, guided by 11 search warrants issued by the Intellectual Property Court. Continued …

Transport Ministry awaits new Cabinet with plan for 13 mega projects

The Transport Ministry has said that it plans to propose 13 mega projects worth 727.3 billion baht to the new Cabinet, with biddings to commence later this year.

Caretaker Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit said these projects were previously proposed under former prime minister Srettha Thavisin and will be resubmitted to the new Cabinet led by PM-elect Paetongtarn Shinawatra. He added that some projects are ready to be launched. Continued …

Deficit with China sparks concern amid uptick in imports

The Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO) has expressed concern over the widening trade deficit between Thailand and China.

In the first six months of 2024, imports from China increased by 7.12% year-on-year, amounting to US$37.6 billion (roughly 1.33 trillion baht). This resulted in a trade deficit with China of $20 billion (about 720 billion baht), up 15.7% year-on-year. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Income tax cuts among financial hub lures

The Ministry of Finance is likely to cut personal and corporate income tax rates for approved individuals and businesses as part of its financial hub initiative to attract foreign investment.

Policies for an entertainment complex, aviation hub and financial hub are three key strategies to entice foreign investment, said Paopoom Rojanasakul, the caretaker deputy finance minister. Continued …

Tourism losses from floods close to Bt500 miilion

Severe floods in many Thai provinces have resulted in tourism losses worth 491 million baht, while tourism expenditure is expected to contract by 200 million baht.

The figures were reported by a committee set up to monitor flood impact, particularly in Phayao, Nan, Phrae, Sukhothai and Uttaradit, which have all dealt with landslides, said Sermsak Pongpanich, the caretaker tourism and sports minister. Continued …

Master plan aims to make Suvarnabhumi regional hub in 5 years

Airports of Thailand (AOT) has unveiled a revised 10-year master plan for the development of Suvarnabhumi Airport, with an investment of more than 159 billion baht, AOT President Kirati Kitmanawat said on Wednesday. The agency is set to open bidding for the expansion of the building on the east side this December, he said.

The new master plan (2025-2035) aims to position Thailand as a regional aviation hub, targeting a global ranking within the top 20 within five years, in line with the government’s ambitious policy. Continued …

Thailand targets 2 million South Korean tourists in 2024

Thailand is gearing up for a significant influx of South Korean tourists during the upcoming six-day Chuseok holiday, hoping to hit a record high of 2 million Korean visitors by the year’s end. This surge is seen as crucial for Thailand’s tourism sector, which has consistently seen South Korean tourists as a top inbound market.

Chuwit Sirivejkul, regional director of marketing for East Asia at the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), revealed that from the start of 2023 until now, around 1.22 million Korean tourists have already visited Thailand. On average, daily arrivals range between 5,000 to 7,000 visitors, indicating a strong, steady flow. Continued …

UK warns travelers not to smuggle pot into country

The UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA) has warned travelers to the United Kingdom from Thailand, Canada and the United States that any attempt to bring cannabis into the country could see them sent to jail after a huge increase in arrests was reported.

According to the British embassy in Bangkok, 378 air passengers have been arrested for smuggling cannabis, and an estimated 15 tons of the drug has been detected and seized at UK airports so far this year. The amount is around three times higher than in 2023 when about five tons of cannabis was seized and 136 people arrested. Continued …

Thailand shopping guide: where to shop in 2024

Shopping in Thailand is like an exciting adventure and a paradise for any shopper. There’s always something to surprise you, whether it’s amazing clothes with unmatched prices or the most tasty foods you didn’t know existed and have never tried anywhere before.

These are the top shopping spots we have selected for you, so you won’t regret visiting them on your trip to Thailand. Continued …

Sightseeing in Songkhla

Even though it was a gloomy day, we could still clearly see Songkhla’s landscape from where we stood atop the ancient Fort No.9. Constructed out of stone to accommodate cannons, it is located on a plain that connects the foothill of Khao Noi and the southwestern town corner. This ruin appears to be a mystical portal that transports visitors to the Ayutthaya period.

Formerly known as Singora, the historic town was originally situated in the neighborhood of Khao Daeng and functioned as a significant trading port on the shoreline of the Isthmus of Kra, bringing in marine merchants from Holland, Britain, France, Portugal, Persia, India and China. Continued …

Thailand’s Renewable Energy Roadmap

Thailand is charting a new course in its energy landscape through its Power Development Plan (PDP) 2024, aimed at increasing its use of renewable energy. This plan marks a significant shift toward carbon neutrality and energy sustainability, reflecting global trends and aligning with international commitments to combat climate change.

The revised Power Development Plan is Thailand’s strategic blueprint to navigate its energy future toward a low-carbon society. The revision stems from several critical factors, including economic changes post-COVID-19, evolving energy demands, and technological advancements such as solar rooftops and electric vehicles (EVs). Continued …

China’s Changan to make Thailand its major overseas EV production base

Changan Automobile, one of China’s “big four” state-owned electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers, has announced a plan to make Thailand its major overseas manufacturing base, targeting an output of 200,000 units by 2026, using up to 80% locally made parts.

The Chongqing-based automaker said its factory in Rayong province, built under promotional privileges granted by the Board of Investment (BOI) in 2023 with an investment budget of 10 billion baht, is now 80% complete and should start operations in the first quarter of 2025. Continued …

Hyundai allocates Bt1 bllion for electric vehicle expansion in Thailand

Hyundai Mobility Thailand, a subsidiary of South Korea’s Hyundai Motor Group, is preparing to expand its electric vehicle business in the country within September under a 1-billion-baht investment in a move to compete with other EV manufacturers.

“We will announce our investment plan within September after completing further talks with the Board of Investment on details of its investment incentives,” said Wallop Chalermvongsavej, managing director of Hyundai Mobility Thailand. 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, cha am, covid, healthcare, hua hin, pattaya, phuket, thai economy, thai wildlife, thailand, thailand festivals, tourism, transportation

Monday’s news-Aug 26

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Red Cross Fair coming/New water pipe to Hua Hin/Nordic Sauna and Padel event/Shrimp Day seminar/Lotus’ Go Fresh at Pae Mai/Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Hua Hin Cha Am/Landslide Buries Workers/More rain expected/Phuket landslide leaves 13 dead/Woman Rides Electric Suitcase/King cobra makes house call/Moonshine methanol kills 1/Patong leaders back legalizing sex work/Illegal bitcoin mine raided.Lessons of Covid-19/Economy: Casino patrons: 90% to be Locals/High-speed rail project hits brakes/Lazada chief sets out growth vision/Investment contracts/UK eyes expanded trade/Thai Bus Firms Under Siege/Wary of Chinese threat perception/Concert space bookings surge/Tourism: Koh Samui cruise terminal/Thailand Experience: Indigenous knowledge in natural resource management/The Most Pet-Friendly Country/$1-Per-Night Airbnb/Thailand’s timeless treasure Ayutthaya/Pattaya’s attraction for Brits/Memories Beach/What are the benefits of a wellness retreat?/5 worst tourist traps in Thailand/The Thai Islands to visit/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

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Red Cross Fair coming Sept. 13-22

Continued …

Cha Am Shellfish eating and Shrimp Fishing Festival Sept 14-21

Continued …

New water pipe coming to Hua Hin

Continued …

Nordic Sauna and Padel event ends Sunday

Thai-Finnish Chamber of Commerce iwill hold a Nordic Sauna and Padel Weekend in Hua Hin Aug. 31 to Sept. 1.

There will be multiple activities, such as playing padel, golf or Finnish sauna and spa if you are more into the relaxing activities. For dinner they will host a BBQ. Continued …

Shrimp Day seminar held in Hua Hin

Continued … 

 

Lotus’ Go Fresh market opens at Pae Mai Market

Continued …

Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Hua Hin Cha Am to offer 2,000 rooms

Video …

Continued …

Landslide Buries Workers Inside High-Speed Rail Tunnel Construction

Yesterday, a landslide buried three vehicles and trapped workers inside a tunnel being constructed for the Thai-Chinese high-speed rail project in Chanut subdistrict, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima. The incident occurred while workers were excavating the tunnel, located between 600 meters and 2 Km deep into the tunnel.

Wthe workers have been found alive and rescue teams are working tirelessly to retrieve them from 6 metres beneath the debris. According to witnesses, workers were operating backhoes and loaders when the mountainside suddenly gave way, causing a massive landslide that engulfed three vehicles, including a supervisor’s car. Continued …

More rain expected for much of Thailand

Heavy to very heavy rains are forecast in Thailand from Aug. 26-28, with isolated very heavy rains possible in the upper north, the upper northeast, the east and the south (west coast).

Affected areas during the period include Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Yala, Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, Krabi, Trang and Satun. Continued …

Phuket landslide leaves 13 dead, 19 injured, 209 homes damaged

Rescue officials in Phuket concluded the search for missing individuals following a devastating landslide. All 13 missing persons have been found dead and the disaster has left 19 injured and impacted 209 households.

The landslide claimed the lives of five men and eight women. Among the deceased were two Thai women from Surat Thani and Sakon Nakhon provinces, a Russian couple, and nine Myanmar workers. Continued …

Woman Rides Electric Suitcase While Using Phone on Busy Bangkok Road

A video posted on the social media platform X sparked outrage and concern over road safety. The video shows a woman riding an electric suitcase while simultaneously dragging a large piece of luggage and using her mobile phone on Vibhavadi Rangsit Road near Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok. The incident has drawn attention to the growing trend of using unconventional personal transport devices in unsafe environments, sparking debate over safety regulations on the roads. (aseannow.com)

Video …

King cobra makes a house call in Chon Buri

A homeowner in Chon Buri had a terrifying encounter yesterday when a 4-meter-long King Cobra slithered into his house. The snake, which raised its head as if to greet the homeowner, coiled itself under a table, prompting a call for assistance from local authorities.

The Tri Khunatham Foundation’s rescue team rushed to the scene equipped with snake-handling tools. Upon arrival, the rescue team found the massive king cobra under a table. It took them over 20 minutes to carefully capture the aggressive snake. Continued …

Moonshine methanol hospitalizes 20, kills 1 in Bangkok

Authorities shut down 18 moonshine shops in six districts after one man died and 20 more were hospitalized due to methanol intoxication in Min Buri district on Saturday night.

Nopparat Rajathanee Hospital in Bangkok’s Kannayao district on Sunday reported that a total of 21 patients became sick after drinking the illegal brew containing methanol. Continued …

Patong leaders back legalizing sex work for safety and health

Patong’s key figures unanimously support the legalization of sex work, asserting that it will enhance safety and health protection for sex workers and their clients.

President of the Patong Entertainment Business Assn. (PEBA) Weerawit Kreuasombat highlighted the current paradox of Thailand’s stance on its renowned sex industry. “Thailand is known for its sex industry, yet maintains a hypocritical stance toward it.” Continued …

Thai officials raid illegal bitcoin mine after power outages

Thai authorities raided an illegal bitcoin mine west of Bangkok after residents complained of frequent blackouts in the area for more than a month, local authorities said Sunday. Police and officials from the Provincial Electricity Authorities (PEA) raided the house in Ratchaburi town on Friday.

“We found bitcoin mining rigs, pointing to people using this house to operate a mine and using power they didn’t fully pay for,” said Jamnong Chanwong, a chief district security officer. Continued …

The lessons of Covid-19 are being forgotten

Four years ago, at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, governments were scrambling to protect their populations and prevent an economic meltdown. No one would dispute that addressing this existential threat was the top political priority back then.

As a former prime minister and director-general of the World Health Organization, I was impressed by the coordinated international response to Covid-19. To be sure, there were large inequalities within and between countries, resulting in society’s most vulnerable paying too high a price, especially when it came to vaccine access. Continued …

Thailand’s Casino Complex: 90% of Patrons Expected to be Locals

Thailand is poised to move forward with an ambitious entertainment complex project that includes a casino. According to the Finance Ministry, the majority of the casino’s patrons — up to 90% — are expected to be Thai locals.

Public hearings are ongoing for the draft law governing this new venture, fulfilling constitutional requirements. A special House committee has studied the feasibility and submitted its findings to the Cabinet, prompting the Finance Ministry to draft the necessary legislation. Continued …

Bangkok airports’ high-speed rail project hits the brakes

The high-speed rail project set to connect Bangkok’s three major airports has been thrown into limbo, as contract amendments grind to a halt. The delay is blamed on the lack of a new chairman for the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) Policy Committee, a role that must be filled by the incoming Cabinet — still nowhere in sight.

The 276.5-billion-baht project promises to link Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, and U-Tapao airports, offering a high-speed rail connection between Bangkok and the EEC. The EEC office’s secretary-general, Chula Sukmanop, reassured that despite the current standstill, construction could still kick off this year, with completion expected within five years, aiming for a 2029 opening. Continued …

Lazada chief sets out growth vision to drive Thailand’s digital economy

As the new chief executive of major e-marketplace operator Lazada Thailand, Varitha Kiatpinyochai, 32, is the company’s youngest homegrown chief executive and the first woman to take the helm.

She outlined her vision for the company’s “customer-first” growth in Thailand, which aims to enhance the shopping experience for different generations of customers, increase opportunities for local merchants, and highlight Lazada as an innovation leader, changemaker, and key driver of Thailand’s e-commerce ecosystem. Continued …

Investment continues to contract

Investment, a key driver of Thailand’s economy, contracted in Q2 for the third consecutive quarter, decreasing by 6.2%. The National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) reported a 6.8% decline in private investment, mainly due to an 8.1% drop in machinery and equipment investment, a 22.5% decrease in vehicle investment, and a slowdown in capital goods imports.

This investment decline aligns with the reduction in new business registrations during the first seven months of 2024, totaling 54,220, a 70% decrease from the same period last year. Continued …

New UK govt eyes expanded trade with Thailand

The United Kingdom’s new government intends to pursue further trade with Thailand and Southeast Asia as a whole, in addition to broadening connections in other areas including digital technology, healthcare and clean energy.

Rhiannon Harries, UK deputy trade commissioner for Southeast Asia, was in Bangkok from recently to hold discussions with government officials, members of the business sector and UK entrepreneurs in Thailand about UK-Thai trade relations. Continued … 

Thai Bus Firms Under Siege by Cut-Rate Chinese Competitors

The Thai bus industry is grappling with an influx of Chinese operators offering ultra-cheap services, disrupting the local market. The crisis has reached a critical point, prompting a call for immediate action from Thai authorities and industry stakeholders.

Wasuchet Sophonsathien, president of the Thai Transportation Operators Assn., has highlighted the deep-seated issues. Illegal foreign bus services are rife, he said, usurping market share from licensed Thai operators still recovering from the economic downturn caused by COVID-19. Continued …

Analyst wary of Chinese threat perception

The new government is being urged to urgently address the perception that Chinese products and investments pose a threat to Thais before the issue escalates and negatively affects Thailand’s exports and tourism.

Sompop Manarungsan, president of the Panyapiwat Institute of Management and a specialist on the Chinese and U.S. economies, said Thailand and China should cooperate to create a win-win trade model. Continued …

Concert space bookings surge 40% in 2nd half of 2024

The number of events organized at Impact Muang Thong Thani in the first half of the year increased by 10% year on year (YoY), the operator of Impact Exhibition and Convention Center said, in keeping with the MICE industry’s growth trends for all types of events, including concerts, trade shows, meetings and seminars.

Paul Kanjanapas, CEO of IMPACT Exhibition Management Co., said the main increase came in organizing meetings, seminars and incentive groups. Space bookings, especially in the incentive group, increased by 58% YoY in the second half of this year, while concerts are up by 40% YoY. Continued …

Koh Samui eyes approval of 12.1-billion-baht cruise terminal

A new cruise terminal inKoh S amui, set to open in 2032, aims to significantly boost tourism in Surat Thani, according to Deputy Caretaker Minister Manaporn Charoensri.

Manaporn, along with Caretaker Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit, visited Koh Samui to review the progress of major transport infrastructure projects. Suriya revealed that the ministry has several new initiatives under way to enhance the tourism sector. Continued …

The role of indigenous and local knowledge in natural resource management

One sunny morning in late 2004, the Moken people of the Surin Islands in the Andaman Sea witnessed an alarming phenomenon – the seawaters suddenly receded even as the placid weather remained unchanged. For Moken elders, this was a harbinger of the Laboon, the furious god of the waves who is said to wreak devastation once every two generations. The entire community evacuated to higher ground.

Meanwhile, Moken seafarers who were taking tourists out snorkeling similarly noticed the ocean’s unusual behavior. They skilfully manevered their boats away from the shoreline – just as the massive tsunami struck. Continued … 

Is Thailand the Most Pet-Friendly Country in the World?

Are you considering a move overseas but worried about how your beloved pets will adapt? Thailand, often celebrated for its warm smiles and gentle people, just might be the most pet-friendly place in the world. Whether you’re a “dog lady” like my sister or simply someone who can’t imagine life without a furry companion, Thailand offers a unique and welcoming environment for pets and their owners.

My sister, now 57, has been contemplating a move overseas. Naturally, I suggested Thailand, my home for the past 25 years. However, as someone who can’t live without at least three canine companions, she had her reservations. “Do Thai people eat dogs?” she asked, reflecting a common but outdated stereotype. Continued … 

Traveler Gives a Tour of His $1-Per-Night Airbnb in Thailand

An American backpacker is stretching his dollar in Thailand. Mike Rari discovered a $1-per-night Airbnb room in Bangkok, which he documented in a video on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/p/C-0bcYNy_Mc/ and YouTube https://www.youtube.com/shorts/F5O8t3k_tHY titled “What’s Inside a $1 Airbnb?”

Giving a tour of the lodging he found, Rari, 22, began, “U.S. flag, so you feel right at home,” after entering the tiny abode by climbing a ladder. “Outlet and Wi-Fi. A little bit cramped in here,” he added, before stepping outside, climbing back down the ladder and continuing to show off the amenities, which were primarily outdoors. Continued …

Explore Thailand’s timeless treasure in Ayutthaya

It might sound like a cliché, but the best travel plans are the ones that are never made. My quest to deviate from tried-and-tested itineraries in Bangkok took me on a journey through time.

This wasn’t a high-adrenaline adventure, but it began with a commute on a local bus from the Bangkok bus terminal (also known as Chatuchak or Mochit 2) and took me to a city that was once the pride of Thailand, its erstwhile capital, and a city that was home to a million residents at its pinnacle. Continued …

Birds, booze and banter remain the Pattaya attraction for Brits

Everyone agrees that Pattaya is evolving into something different, even if nobody is sure what that will be. However, the resort’s downtown Soi Buakhao district, sometimes over-simplified as Little Britain, is proving highly resistant to change.

Many of the bars, clubs and gogos retain English-sounding names, while fish and chips on a Friday and roast beef on a Sunday are the dominant cafe and restaurant themes. There are between 500 and 1,000 mostly small units of enjoyment in the Soi Buakhao and L.K. Metro vicinity, depending on where you draw the boundaries. Continued …

Memories Beach: Thailand’s Up-and-Coming Surf Paradise

Tucked away along the pristine Andaman coast, Memories Beach in Phang Nga province is quietly carving out a reputation as Thailand’s best surf destination.

For those who crave the thrill of surfing without the intensity of competing against seasoned pros, this hidden gem offers the perfect balance. Here, casual surfers can ride the waves in a relaxed atmosphere, far removed from the crowded shores of Phuket, all while soaking up a vibrant, emerging surf culture. Continued …

What are the benefits of staying at a wellness retreat in Thailand?

As I was suspended in an aerial yoga pose, my world turned upside down; I couldn’t help but marvel at the unexpected turn my life had taken. Just days ago, I was an overworked, stressed-out professional needing a break from the daily hustle. Now, I was at a wellness retreat in Phuket, embracing experiences I never thought I’d have the courage to try.

According to the Global Wellness Institute (GWI), the global wellness tourism market is valued at more than US$640 billion. Intrigued by this trend and desperate for a mental reset, I stepped out of my comfort zone and into a world of sunrise hikes and meditation sessions. Little did I know that this leap of faith would profoundly transform my life. Continued …

5 worst tourist traps in Thailand: What to know before you go

Thailand, famed for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and welcoming locals, is a dream destination for many travelers. However, like any popular tourist spot, it has its share of tourist traps — places that, while iconic, might not always offer the authentic experience visitors seek.

Here are five well-known tourist traps in Thailand and other tips. Continued …

These are the Thai Islands to visit instead of Phuket

With miles of golden sand beaches stretching along its western flank; gorgeous temples, mosques and churches dotted around the villages and hillsides; internationally revered Michelin restaurants; a culturally rich and recently regenerated old town; a well connected international airport; plus an armada of longtail boats anchored on the shores ready to drive you out on trips around the inlets, it’s easy to see why Phuket has maintained its spot as Thailand’s most popular island for decades.

But in Phuket, where gridlock traffic jams on the roads and lack of space on the beaches are already frequent complaints, it makes you wonder: does this island need an influx? Is it time to swap Phuket for another Thai destination on your next trip? 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, chiang mai, climate change, healthcare, hua hin, immigration, pattaya, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, tourism, transportation

Friday’s news-Aug 23

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Hua Hin pub death probe/Hua Hin property development under fire/Thailand Open tennis returns/Chachoengsao plane crash/Mpox strain hits Thailand/Northern Thailand flooding/Amcham Thailand Foundation hosts Career Camp/Rail systems in 4 provinces/Bangkok to Beijing train/NACC accuses 3 police/Thai government’s trust crisis/Foreigners behaving badly/Economy: Who’s in charge?/10k handout begins in September/Pursuing BRICS Membership/Thai Oil and Gas Industry/Toyota zooms ahead in Thailand/Duck egg prices up again/Tourism: Zero-Dollar Chinese Tours/1,200 Destination Visas/New Suvarnabhumi runway/Another Illegal Luxury Villa/Climate Thailand: Thailand on the clock/Energy plan faces delay/EV battery boom/Changan to open Thai EV factory/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

Army lawyer joins Hua Hin pub death probe

The Royal Thai Army has appointed a military lawyer to monitor a police investigation into the fatal shooting of one of its intelligence officers in an unlicensed Hua Hin bar that was open after the legal closing time. The army sargeant reportedly was shot in the back of the head.

Jakkrit Worakul, 34, is accused of shooting SM1 Rojchanaphon Rojchanapanich to death inside a pub on Soi 80, a nightlife area just off Phetkasem Road in Hua Hin. The incident also injured three others. Continued …

Unnamed Hua Hin property development under fire

Continued …

Thailand Open tennis returns to Hua Hin in September

The Thailand Open tennis tournament will be held next month at Arena Hua Hin, said Suwat Liptapanlop, honorary president of the Lawn Tennis Association of Thailand (LTAT).

The WTA 250 tournament will take place between Sept. 16-22, with the qualifying round being held over two days on Sept. 14 and 15. A press conference to announce more details of the tournament will take place on Sept. 3. Continued …

Nine confirmed dead in Chachoengsao plane crash

A small plane carrying nine people, including passengers and crew, crashed just 10 minutes after takeoff in Chachoengsao province yesterday. All on board are dead. The incident occurred yesterday afternoon, when officials began the grim task of recovering the wreckage in Moo 6, Ban Khao Din, Bang Pakong district.

Initially, the bodies of the passengers were nowhere to be found, sparking concern. However, it was soon discovered that the aircraft had plunged nose-first into the earth, embedding itself more than 10 meters deep in the muddy ground. Continued …

Deadly new mpox strain hits Thailand

Thailand confirmed its first case of a potentially deadlier strain of mpox, marking Asia’s first encounter with the virus variant known as Clade 1b. This development follows hot on the heels of the first reported case outside Africa, in Sweden, just a week ago.

Since last year, mpox has claimed at least 450 lives in the Democratic Republic of Congo, spreading across previously unaffected regions, including Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda. The Clade 1b strain, now identified in eastern DRC, has proven particularly deadly, raising fears of further international spread. Continued …

Northern Thailand flooding: Phichit’s Yom River water levels rise

The Royal Irrigation Department (RID) is closely monitoring the water levels in the Yom River in Phichit province, which has been rising steadily due to heavy rainfall in northern Thailand, particularly in Phrae and Phayao. This surge in water is expected to flow down to Sukhothai, Phitsanulok, and Phichit.

Chuchart Rakjit, the director-general of the Royal Irrigation Department, announced that the department issued warnings to residents in the Yom River basin to prepare for potential flooding. Plans have been put in place to manage the water flow in the basin, especially as large volumes of water are expected to flow down from Phrae. Continued …

Amcham Thailand Foundation hosts Career Camp for university, vocational grads

The American Chamber of Commerce in Thailand Foundation (ATF) held its annual Career Camp from Aug. 18-21, offering Thai students essential career skills. Supported by FedEx, the camp included mock interviews, communication training, and professional social media use.

The ATF’s commitment to fostering Thailand’s next generation of leaders, especially those from financially disadvantaged backgrounds, is exemplified by the Career Camp. The program offers robust career readiness workshops designed to bridge the gap between academia and the professional world. This year, the program expanded its focus to include vocational scholarship students, underscoring the ATF’s dedication to developing a skilled workforce across various educational backgrounds. Continued …

MRTA plans rail systems in 4 provinces

The Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) plans to develop a light rail system in Phuket, Chiang Mai, Nakhon Ratchasima and Phitsanulok, with a combined budget of 77 billion baht.

Deputy MRTA Gov. Wittaya Phanmongkol said yesterday the agency estimates the cost of the projects in the four provinces will be 35 billion baht for Phuket, 30 billion baht for Chiang Mai, 7 billion baht for Nakhon Ratchasima and around 5 billion baht for Phitsanulok. Continued …

Bangkok to Beijing train: Mekong River railway bridge opens

Travelers are one step closer to a train journey from Bangkok to Beijing as a new railway bridge over the Mekong River has opened, linking Thailand and Laos by rail for the first time. This milestone, completed last month, leaves just a few dozen miles of a trackless gap before the route can finally reach China.

With the launch of this new service, passengers can now enjoy a 12-hour train journey from Bangkok’s Krung Thep Aphiwat Station to Khamsavath Station in Vientiane, the capital of Laos. However, Khamsavath, located about 9.7 kilometers outside Vientiane, is currently the final stop on this route. Travellers wishing to continue their journey to China must navigate Vientiane’s streets via taxis or vans to reach the larger, Chinese-built Vientiane Railway Station, which lies 16 kilometers northeast of the capital. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

NACC accuses 3 police of being ‘unusually rich’

The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has accused a former chief of the Marine Police Division and two other senior police officers of being “unusually rich”.

The first case involves Boonsueb Praithuen, former chief of the Marine Police Division under the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB), said NACC Secretary-general Niwatchai Kasemmongkol. Continued … 

Survey reveals Thai government’s trust crisis

A recent survey has uncovered a distrust among the Thai populace toward their government, with more than 69% of respondents expressing doubts that the government acts in the country’s best interests.

Conducted by the Institute of Future Studies for Development (IFD) from Aug. 17 to 20, the survey sampled 1,251 adults nationwide. The findings paint a troubling picture of a political landscape dominated by unseen forces, with a significant majority of Thais convinced that the country’s main political parties are under the thumb of powerful individuals. Continued …

 Indian Gang Violence in Pattaya Sparks Public Concern

Continued …

Who’s in charge? Ex-PM Thaksin lays out 14-point plan to fix economy

Former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra on Thursday proposed a 14-point strategy to improve Thailand’s sluggish economy in his first public speech since returning to Thailand after 17 years abroad. He was speaking at a dinner talk event at Siam Paragon Hall in Bangkok and attended by politicians, diplomats and investors.

“Today our economy cannot fall any lower, and we need to lift it up quickly,” the former premier said in his keynote speech. “Management of various problems has been done without leadership. Both the government and private sectors have been working separately, each seeking their own success, forgetting about the country’s well being and how we can develop for the common good,” he said. Continued …

10k handout begins in Sept, prioritizing vulnerable sections

The 10,000-baht handout under the digital wallet scheme would kick-off in September, with priority being given to vulnerable sections of society, former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra revealed on Thursday. Thaksin revealed that 13.5 million people listed in vulnerable groups and a million handicapped citizens would be given the 10,000 baht handout.

Later in October, the next group of people who register for the scheme, which he expected to be no more than 30 million people, would be handed 10,000 baht, Thaksin said. Continued …

What Motivates Thailand to Pursue BRICS Membership?

BRICS, originally consisting of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, is poised for further expansion, requiring a new name soon. In August, the group welcomed Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, marking its first additions in 13 years. Over 30 nations have since expressed interest in joining, indicating a growing desire to be part of this non-Western bloc.

Countries like Malaysia and Thailand are actively seeking BRICS membership. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has lobbied for support from key countries, envisioning benefits like enhanced trade and investment. Meanwhile, Thailand aims to revitalize its economy through potential BRICS participation amid ongoing struggles in its tourism sector. Continued …

Exploring the Thai Oil and Gas Industry

Thailand is considered a prominent player in the oil and gas industry in the Southeast Asia (SEA) region. The Thai oil and gas industry is a major contributor to the energy market in Southeast Asia and is currently facing various challenges that are influencing its future.

One of the challenges is the decline in domestic gas production, which has been exacerbated by ongoing reserve depletion. This has led to an increased reliance on imported gas, primarily from Malaysia and Myanmar, to meet the country’s power generation needs. Continued …

Toyota zooms ahead in Thailand’s automobile market

Toyota is leading the list of automobile brands with the most vehicles registered by buyers in the first seven months of this year.

The Land Transport Department (LTD) said on Thursday that a total of 322,627 vehicles with fewer than seven seats using internal combustion engines (ICE) had been registered from Jan. 1 to July 31. Of them, 110,861 were Toyota sedans, followed by 57,908 Honda cars and 34,420 Isuzu pickups. Continued …

Duck egg prices up again to 5.10 baht an egg

The Egg Duck Assn. yesterday informed its members about the new farm gate prices for duck eggs. The price per egg has been increased by 10 satang, bringing the total to 5.10 baht per egg. This price adjustment is effective immediately, and any further changes will be communicated by the association.

This recent price hike is the fifth one this year. The previous adjustments occurred on April 22, when prices rose by 20 satang per egg, followed by another 20 satang increase on May 6. The price increased again by 10 satang on May 20 and another 10 satang on June 3. Continued …

Thailand’s Tourism Surge Threatened by Zero-Dollar Chinese Tours

Thailand’s tourism industry, currently experiencing rapid growth due to a new visa-free policy, is catering to a large influx of international visitors. However, even though Chinese tourists make up the majority, issues are emerging regarding Chinese zero-dollar tours. These tours are potentially decreasing Thailand’s potential revenue.

From the start of the year to Aug. 18, Thailand has received 22,474,172 international tourists who have contributed 1.05 trillion baht to the nation’s economy. Major contributors were Chinese tourists, who accounted for 4,555,262 arrivals. Continued …

Thailand Issued Nearly 1,200 Destination Visas to Digital Nomads & Remote Workers Within a Month

Last month, Thailand initiated a new visa scheme (DTV), valid for five years, aimed at attracting international remote workers, freelancers and digital nomads to work and travel in Thailand for up to 180 days per entry.

This kind of visa priced at US$280 or 10,000 baht can be extended for 180 days by paying an additional 10,000 baht. About 1,200 Destination Thailand Visas (DTV) have been issued in Thailand since July 15, from 47 embassies and consulates. Continued …

New Suvarnabhumi runway to open at year-end

The third runway at Suvarnabhumi Airport will be ready for operation at the end of the year, according to Airports of Thailand (AoT), lifting aircraft handling capacity to 94 planes per hour from 68 now.

A full-scale trial of the new runway was carried out on Thursday, with participants including Aeronautical Radio of Thailand (Aerothai), Thai Airways International and Bangkok Flight Services. Continued …

Another Illegal Luxury Villa by Chinese Investors Found on Koh Samui

Officials continue the “Samui Model” operation to inspect illegal constructions on Koh Samui, as they investigate a luxury villa that has appeared in the middle of a mountain, built on a steep slope in a red zone where construction is prohibited.

Yesterday, officials from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, local Koh Samui and Surat Thani authorities, along with 4th Army Region officials, ISOC Region 4, and Bo Phut Police, inspected a luxury villa located in the Chaweng Noi mountain area, Bo Phut subdistrict. Continued …

Thailand on the clock to adopt global pacts on emissions

Thailand needs to quickly adopt and implement international agreements on reducing carbon emissions to prevent adverse effects on the country’s exports and investments, warns caretaker Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira.

In his keynote speech, delivered at the “ESG Forum: Time for Action”, Pichai said Thailand has only six years left to adopt and implement international pacts on cutting carbon emissions, as stipulated by international accords. Continued …

National energy plan faces delay amid cabinet reshuffle

Thailand’s new national energy plan (NEP), outlining the roadmap toward a low-carbon society, is expected to encounter a delay due to the protracted process of forming a new cabinet under the Paetongtarn Shinawatra administration, says the Energy Policy and Planning Office.

Having undergone a public hearing, the NEP was originally set to be finalized by the National Energy Policy Council, led by the premier, in September and should be enforced in October, said Veerapat Kiatfuengfoo, director-general of the office. Continued …

EV battery boom: Can AI help Thailand drive to the top?

Thailand is revving up for a major geopolitical boost by focusing on electric vehicle (EV) batteries and auto components, including integrated circuit packaging and testing. According to Taiwan’s Profet AI, the key to speeding up product delivery, slashing costs, and raising standards lies in adopting cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) amid ongoing economic headwinds.

Jerry Huang, co-founder and CEO of Profet AI, said around 40% of their 300 Taiwanese clients are eyeing a move to Thailand to dodge geopolitical pitfalls. Among those considering the shift are big players in the EV battery and auto parts industries, as well as semiconductor manufacturers and circuit board producers, said Huang. Continued …

Changan to open Thai EV factory next March

Changan Automobile’s first electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing plant in Southeast Asia is set to open in Thailand in the first quarter of next year, with a total investment budget exceeding 10 billion baht.

“We expect to start producing battery EVs in March 2025,” said Shen Xinghua, managing director of Changan Auto Southeast Asia, a subsidiary of the Chongqing-based company. The company will produce right-hand drive EVs for sale in the domestic market, and use the Thai facility as its production base to export left-hand drive EVs, he said. 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
baht, bangkok, exports, healthcare, hospitality, hua hin, pattaya, real estate, thai economy, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s news-Aug 22

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Bang Saphan Beach dog biting/Snake in a toilet/Severe Flooding in Chiang Rai/Floods displace 500 households in Nan/Two gunned down in Yala/Gun-toting schoolkids/New Mpox Strain in Thailand/Economy: Baht poised to reach 34/Cash in lieu of digital wallet/Key Interest Rate at 2.50%/Strong baht to affect exports/Factories in ‘Chonburi-Rayong’/Temu dents Thailand Post/Sansiri shares rise/Tourism: Thai Hotels Report 170-Million-Baht Loss/Hoteliers oppose package for online travel agents/Train travel between Bangkok and Penang/Thailand Experience: Thailand’s best local foods/Best southern Thai restaurants in Bangkok/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

Legal action in Bang Saphan Beach dog biting

Continued …

Another snake in a toilet

A Samut Prakan man making his morning visit to the toilet was startled on Wednesday by a sudden, sharp pain in his testicles after he sat down. He had been bitten by a python hiding in the toilet bowl, after which the reptile remained firmly attached to his scrotum before he was able to shake it off.

Tanat Tangtewanon posted his experience as a warning to others during the rainy weather. He said he woke up and went to the toilet as usual, flushing it first as he always did. Continued …

Severe Flooding in Chiang Rai Claims Two Lives

Heavy rains in Chiang Rai have wreaked havoc, causing severe flooding that has claimed two lives and trapped 20 individuals in a convenience store. The flooding has also submerged an extensive 15,000 rai of farmland, predominantly rice fields.

Continuous torrential downpours have led to significant water level rises in several rivers, with the Ing River being particularly affected. Originating from Kwan Phayao and flowing through Thoeng and Khun Tan districts before merging with the Mekong River in Chiang Khong, the river’s swelling has resulted in widespread flooding. Continued …

Floods displace 500 households in Nan, severe damage reported

Floods have caused significant damage in the northern province of Nan, affecting eight districts and displacing over 500 households. The heavy rain led to rapid rises in river levels, particularly impacting Thawngpha district where residents struggled to evacuate their belongings in time.

The province of Nan is facing a severe flood crisis, with eight districts now affected. These districts include Chaloem Phra Kiat, Thung Chang, Chiang Klang, Pua, Thawngpha, Ban Luang, Wiang Sa, and Nanoi. The heavy rainfall caused river levels to rise quickly, overflowing into residential areas and farmlands, causing widespread distress and damage to numerous residents. Continued … 

At Least 10 Assailants Open Fire on Durian Stall Owner, Killing 2 in Yala

Yesterday, reports emerged of a shooting incident involving a group of at least 10 armed assailants at a durian stall in front of the Kubor (Muslim cemetery) in Ban Saikaeo, Village 3, Taling Chan subdistrict, Bannang Sata District, Yala Province.

According to reports, the gunmen approached the durian stall on foot from the direction of a nearby waterfall. Upon arrival, they called the stall owner outside and then opened fire in a barrage using unknown types and calibers of firearms, resulting in the deaths of two people. Continued …

Gun-toting schoolkids spark East Pattaya chaos

Violence erupted on the streets of East Pattaya as footage emerged yesterday showing school kids from a local public school and a rival private school engaging in brutal confrontations. The disturbing scenes reveal students clashing in a series of chaotic brawls.

These violent altercations have reportedly occurred at least three times between mid-July and early August. However, the conflict took a terrifying turn last week when a group of middle school students from the public school approached the nearby private school armed with a gun. Continued …

European Traveler Suspected of Bringing New Mpox Strain to Thailand

A case of the severe strain of mpox, which is currently spreading rapidly in Africa, has been found as the first case in Thailand. The patient is a foreigner who traveled from Africa.

Dr. Thongchai Keeratihatthayakorn, director general of the Department of Disease Control, held a press conference regarding this case of monkeypox (Clade I) at the Department of Disease Control yesterday. He stated that this patient is a European who traveled from a country with an outbreak of monkeypox Clade I on the African continent. Continued …

Baht poised to reach 34 to the greenback

The baht is on course to appreciate to 34 to the dollar or an even stronger position in the near term after hitting a 13-month high yesterday as the Bank of Thailand held the policy rate at 2.5%, which could spur inflows ahead of the U.S. Federal Reserve’s next meeting in September.

After closing on Tuesday at 34.21, the Thai currency surged to 34.06 to the greenback early on Wednesday, the highest level since July 2023, before easing to 34.13-15. Continued …

15 million ‘fragile’ people to get cash in lieu of digital wallet

An estimated 15 million Thai nationals will likely be granted 10,000 baht in cash each in lieu of a digital wallet with the same amount under a new Pheu Thai-led government, a source said yesterday.

Officially categorized as “fragile” groups of people, the 14.98 million people nationwide will likely become recipients to a sum of 10,000 baht in cash each, given their sustained status as state welfare cardholders earlier provided by a previous government. Continued … 

Bank of Thailand Maintains Key Interest Rate at 2.50%

The Bank of Thailand’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) has decided to maintain the key interest rate at 2.50% per annum. The decision came after a 6-1 vote during its meeting on Wednesday. Piti Disyatat, secretary of the MPC, announced this move, underscoring the steady economic growth driven by tourism and domestic demand.

Thailand’s economy has been expanding in line with forecasts, showing signs of recovery, particularly in the export sector. The MPC is confident that inflation will return to the target range by late 2024. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Strong baht to affect Q4 exports

The Thai National Shippers’ Council (TNSC) is concerned that the rapid strengthening of the baht, currently at more than 34 baht to the U.S. dollar, could hinder the growth of the export sector in the fourth quarter of the year.

The sector expanded 2% year on year in the first half of 2024, said TNSC chief Chaicharn Charoensuk on Wednesday, adding that amid the high number of negative external factors, the only supporting factor for this growth is the weak baht. Continued …

Chinese Investors Build Factories in ‘Chonburi-Rayong’, Land Prices Rise

Meesak Chunharakchoti, former president of the Thai Real Estate Assn., revealed that Chinese investors are increasingly buying land outside industrial estates in the Rayong region, such as in Nikhom Phatthana, Bo Win and Pluak Daeng districts, to set up factories to support investment in electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing in Thailand. Land prices in the industrial estates are relatively high, with some negotiations leading to discounts of up to 50%.

As for the real estate business, the situation remains unclear, but some investors have shown interest in partnering with local developers, possibly due to the current slowdown in the real estate market, which presents opportunities for investors. Continued …

Temu dents Thailand Post’s logistics for e-commerce

The entry of Chinese e-commerce behemoth Temu is affecting Thailand Post’s logistics service for other e-commerce platforms as its volume declined by 20%-50% per day from July, said the company. Thailand Post’s logistics activities for TikTok fell by 50% from July to this month, said President Dhanant Subhadrabandhu.

Temu’s entry is a critical challenge to the local e-commerce landscape that affects all related parties, especially online and offline retailers, because of its highly competitive product prices and unique business model, he said. Continued …

Sansiri shares rise after sale of Standard to Hyatt

Shares of Sansiri Plc (SIRI) rose by nearly 5% on Wednesday after Thailand’s leading property developer announced an agreement to sell shares of the U.S.-based lifestyle hotel Standard International to the Hyatt group for US$355 million.

In its filing to the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) on Wednesday, Sansiri board Chairman Apichart Chutrakul announced the sale of 71% of its U.S. subsidiary Standard International Holdings (SIH) to Hyatt Corp. and Hyatt International Corp. Continued …

Thai Hotels Report 170-Million-Baht Loss after German Tour Company’s Downfall

The collapse of the Germany-based travel agency FTI Group has resulted in a total loss of around 173 million baht for Thai hotels, a significant rise from the initially projected 111 million baht in June.

According to the Thai Hotels Assn. (THA), this financial crisis has adversely affected 179 hotels nationwide, mainly in the southern region where the losses are calculated to be nearly 141 million baht. Continued …

Hoteliers oppose Bt280-million package for online travel agents

Thai hoteliers are opposed to the cabinet’s approval of 280 million baht to support tourism packages provided by online travel agents (OTAs), fearing most of the income would flow out to foreign platforms, while local operators cannot reap benefits.

Earlier this month, the cabinet approved an additional budget for the Tourism and Sports Ministry, allocated to the Tourism Authority of Thailand. The budget was prepared for cooperation with nine OTAs, offering promotional packages between August and September. Continued …

Train travel between Bangkok and Penang to resume

Thailand and Malaysia are planning to revive the rail route between Bangkok and Butterworth in Penang state to ensure seamless travel between the two countries, the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) said on Tuesday. The decision was taken last week when SRT Deputy Gov. Awirut Thongnet and his team attended the joint conference with Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB) in Kota Kinabalu.

Ekarat Sriarayanphong, head of the SRT governor’s office, said SRT and KTMB have agreed to establish a working team for the Bangkok-Butterworth route for an initial trial run of six months. Continued …

Thailand serves up a list of best local foods

The Culture Ministry has announced the winners of its annual “The Lost Taste” campaign, which aims to preserve and promote Thailand’s culinary heritage.

Caretaker Culture Minister Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol revealed the list of the best local dishes for each of Thailand’s 77 provinces on Wednesday. The dishes were selected through public votes collected from Aug. 1 to 9. Continued …

The best southern Thai restaurants in Bangkok for that extra kick of spice

Thai food varies a lot throughout the regions, but the spice is what holds us together. The south of Thailand gets a lot of influences from Malaysia and Indonesia, and the abundance of fresh ingredients grown locally also add another dimension to the dishes.

From the rich yellow curry to the heat-filled khua kling, these southern Thai restaurants in Bangkok tbring in all the right notes that have our tastebuds dancing straight to the city. Continued …

Ukraine launches major drone attack on Moscow as battles rage in Kursk

Moscow came under one of the largest attacks by Ukrainian drones since the start of fighting in 2022, Russian authorities reported Wednesday, saying they destroyed all of those headed toward the capital. Continued …

People queue for water, limit usage amid drought in Spain

A severe drought has rendered tap water undrinkable in several towns along Spain’s Costa Blanca, forcing holiday-makers and locals in the Valencia region to queue at distribution points for bottled water to cover their basic needs. Video …

Heat wave impact in South Korea: Algae in tap water

Summer’s relentless heat wave isn’t just driving up temperatures – it’s also affecting tap water. On Tuesday, several cities in the Seoul metropolitan area, including Incheon and Anyang, and Gwacheon of Gyeonggi Province, issued public alerts following resident complaints about an unusual grassy odor coming from faucets. 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, climate change, healthcare, hua hin, immigration, medical tourism, pattaya, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, tourism

Monday’s news-Aug 19

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Soldier shot, killed at soi 80 bar/Hua Hin ‘Timeless Light Charm’ event/Contemporary Art Festival/’Old District, Telling Stories’ event/East Africa delegation visits Hua Hin/30-baht scheme in hot water/Thai baht rally faces threats/Thunderstorms and heavy rain/Window cleaner falls to death/Worker crushed to death/Villager Killed by Wild Elephant/Nakhon Ratchasima woman wins lottery/How to store root vegetables/Reforming the military/Economy: New PM’s focus/Thai growth quickens/To continue ‘major economic stimulus measures’/Tricky minefield lies ahead/Digital Wallet Integrity Test/Paetongtarn denies ‘dad’ ordering end of digital wallet/Thailand’s average growth forecast/Thailand advancing casino plans/Up in arms against Temu/Sharp fall in condo sales/Loosen strict alcohol ad curbs/PTT Oil branches out/KEX Express changes name/Tourism: Immigration and the New Government/Medical Tourism In ASEAN/New app for Chinese tourists/Climate Thailand: Hyundai unveils EV plans/Smart Cities in Southeast Asia/Thailand Experience: 7 Best Historical Sites in Bangkok/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

Soldier shot, killed at soi 80 bar

A disagreement Sunday morning at an unlicensed Soi 80 Hua Hin pub led to the fatal shooting of Sgt. Major Rojchanaphon Rojchanaphanit, an intelligence officer at Thanarat Camp. The commotion at Tiny Club saw police commissioner Jakkrit Worawongphanitkul allegedly pulling a 9 mm. pistol, fatally shooting Punch and injuring two other patrons.

At approximately 4 am , Hua Hin Police Station received a report about a dispute turning violent in the Tiny Club on Soi Hua Hin 80. Responders, including high-ranking officers and forensic teams, quickly arrived at the chaotic scene littered with broken bottles and a large pool of blood. Continued …

Hua Hin ‘Timeless Light Charm’ event underway

Continued …

Artist Village Contemporary Art Festival Sept 6-8

Continued …

‘Old District, Telling Stories’ event in PKK

Continued …

East Africa tourism delegation visits Hua Hin

Continued …

30-baht scheme in hot water: is Thailand’s gold card running out of cash?

Thailand’s universal healthcare policy, known as the 30-baht gold card scheme, faces scrutiny over its financial sustainability and adequacy in providing security to all citizens. Health experts call for a reform to ensure the scheme’s long-term viability.

This populist policy, launched by the Pheu Thai Party more than two decades ago, strives to offer equitable medical treatment for Thai citizens, particularly the economically disadvantaged, without the burden of financial stress. Introduced in 2002, the program initially required a co-payment of 30 baht per visit, a fee that was later abolished, granting cardholders free access to medical services. Continued …

Thai baht rally faces threats amid political drama and bank policy

Thailand’s recent baht rally faces a rocky road as the country dives into political chaos just before the central bank’s policy meeting this week.

Since July, the baht has been a star performer, climbing up the ranks as tourism bounced back from a near two-year low against the U.S. dollar in May. But this impressive upswing could be at risk due to the latest political turmoil. Continued …

Thunderstorms and heavy rain forecast for 50 provinces

The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) issued a weather forecast warning for thunderstorms across 50 provinces, with heavy rain expected in Bangkok from afternoon to evening. Citizens are urged to be cautious of flash floods and sudden water surges.

The southern region (east coast) will see thunderstorms in 60% of the area, with heavy rain in Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. Temperatures will range from 23 to 26°C to 34 to 36°C, with southwest winds at 15 to 30 kilometers per hour. Waves will be about 1 meter high, reaching over 2 meters during thunderstorms. Continued …

Thai window cleaner falls to death from 31st floor of Bangkok hotel

A Thai window cleaner fell to his death on Saturday after his scaffold gondola platform collapsed and plummeted from the 31st floor of a hotel in Soi Sukhumvit 24, Bangkok.

The body of the window cleaner, 34-year-old Thanu Chanprasert, was discovered in the swimming pool on the seventh floor with a severe open skull wound. A dark blue scaffold gondola platform was found near Thanu’s body, with its sling ropes torn. Continued …

Worker crushed to death by hydraulic baler in Samut Prakan

A tragic accident occurred yesterday when a 34-year-old worker at a recycling warehouse in Samut Prakan was crushed to death by a hydraulic paper baler. Hein Naung Oo, a Myanmar national, was found dead after falling into the machine.

The incident took place at 1pm at an unnamed recycling warehouse located at 505 Moo 9, Sai Khlong Bang Pla Kot, Phra Samut Chedi district. Police officer Suwit Phudonnang, along with a medical team from Phra Samut Chedi Hospital and the Ruamkatanyu Foundation, rushed to the scene. Continued …

Villager Killed by Wild Elephant in Kanchanaburi

A tragic incident occurred last week in Kanchanaburi province when a villager was killed by a wild elephant from the Salak Phra Wildlife Sanctuary. Another individual, a rescue worker, was injured while trying to guide responders to the scene.

The victim was attacked while gathering bamboo shoots in the forest near Moo 4, Dan Mae Chalaep subdistrict, Si Sawat district. He had reportedly gone fishing earlier and then ventured into the forest, unaware of the presence of a wild elephant. The elephant attacked him with such force that he died instantly. Continued …

Nakhon Ratchasima woman wins 6 million baht in lottery

A woman from Pak Chong in Nakhon Ratchasima has won the first prize in the latest lottery draw, instantly becoming 6 million baht richer.

Anisara confirmed her big win by registering it at a local police station, providing evidence that she is the rightful owner of the winning lottery ticket, numbered 095867, from the draw held yesterday. Continued …

How to properly store potatoes and other root vegetables

Root vegetables are not only delicious, but they’re also incredibly versatile and can last a long time when they’re stored properly. Potatoes, carrots, beets and onions are just a few of the members of the root vegetable family, so here are a few tips to keep in mind to help you get your money’s worth out of these versatile veggies.

Always start with fresh produce! Check for any bruising or mold and avoid any vegetables with sprouts growing on them. Root vegetables should be firm, so give them a squeeze before putting them in your shopping cart. Continued … 

The failed pledge to reform the military

The government under Srettha Thavisin promised military reforms when it took office in 2023, but a year later it has nothing to show for it, hindered by a lack of political will, insufficient support from the armed forces, and various shortcomings.

Srettha became prime minister on Aug. 22 last year, the same day former premier Thaksin Shinawatra returned from 15 years in self-imposed exile, highlighting complications and complexities within the Pheu Thai-led administration. Continued …

New PM’s focus must be on growing the economy, chamber says

The new government should prioritize stabilizing the baht, boosting tourism and expanding export markets in the short term, while also continuing the Srettha administration’s investment and soft power policies, said Sanan Angubolkul, chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce.

He underlined the importance of maintaining the stability of the baht at an appropriate level, thus avoiding excessive appreciation, which would benefit exports, particularly agricultural products, and support continuous growth in tourism. Continued …

Thai growth quickens in Q2 on higher consumption, tourism

Thai economic growth strengthened in the second quarter due to increases in consumption, tourism and exports, official data showed today, and the government narrowed its full-year growth forecast range.

Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy grew 2.3% in the April-June quarter from a year earlier, data from the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) showed, beating analysts’ expectations for a 2.1% expansion in a Reuters poll. Continued …

Paetongtarn vows to continue ‘major economic stimulus measures’

Newly appointed Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has vowed to continue major economic stimulus measures of the Srettha government.

But Paetongtarn, who was appointed as Thailand’s 31st prime minister by royal command on Sunday, stopped short of saying she was referring to the controversial digital wallet scheme in which the previous government planned to spend 450 billion baht to hand out to 10,000 eligible recipients. Continued …

Tricky minefield lies ahead of PM

The astonishing speed with which Thailand’s 31st prime minister was nominated, endorsed in the House of Representatives and approved by royal command would not have been achieved without the intervention by “you know who” at the Ban Chan Song La mansion in Thon Buri.

Government whips from the coalition parties met for a closed-door meeting at Ban Chan Song La mansion soon after the Constitutional Court delivered its ruling on Wednesday to oust Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin from office for ethical misconduct. Continued …

New PM Faces Digital Wallet Integrity Test

Newly appointed Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra stands at a crucial juncture, facing intense scrutiny over Pheu Thai Party’s flagship policy: the digital wallet scheme. This program, designed to boost the Thai economy by providing financial aid directly to the poor, is under the microscope, testing Paetongtarn’s integrity as a leader.

The digital wallet initiative proposes giving digital money to Thai citizens to stimulate spending and economic growth. Proponents argue it will uplift the underprivileged and generate economic activity, while critics warn it could lead to long-term financial instability. Paetongtarn recently hinted that the scheme might need revisions, but her comments remain vague, leaving the media and public with more questions than answers. Continued …

Paetongtarn denies ‘dad’ ordering end of digital wallet scheme

Newly appointed Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has denied that her father Thaksin Shinawatra has told her to terminate the controversial digital wallet scheme.

She said Thaksin simply advised her to seek more opinions on the controversial digital wallet scheme, in which the previous government of Srettha Thavisin planned to hand out 10,000 baht each to some 45 million eligible recipients. Continued …

Thailand’s average growth forecast at just 2.8% over next decade

The latest report by Angsana Council, Bain & Company, and DBS Bank of Singapore has revealed the ASEAN economic growth outlook for the next decade, from 2024 to 2034.

The region is projected to grow at an average rate of 5.1% annually, with Vietnam and Philippines experiencing the fastest growth. In contrast, Thailand’s economy is anticipated to grow at 2.8% annually, which is close to Singapore’s projected average growth rate of 2.5%. Continued …

Thailand advancing plans to legalize large ‘entertainment complexes’ with casinos

Thailand’s beautiful beaches, rich food, and cultural heritage attract many tourists. The government is now contemplating adding casinos to its offerings by legalizing gambling, including roulette and blackjack, through proposed “entertainment complexes.” These complexes would feature hotels, restaurants, and sports venues, aiming to boost tourism revenue significantly.

The government hopes to attract more visitors from China, where gambling is tightly regulated, and projections suggest these new developments could generate billions in the first year. However, opposition persists, focusing on potential risks such as addiction and the resurgence of illegal gambling activities. Continued …

Thai consumers, entrepreneurs up in arms against e-commerce platform Temu

A majority of Thai consumers and entrepreneurs are aligning with the global movement to ban Chinese e-commerce platform Temu, amid fears that an influx of cheap products could devastate the country’s supply chain and competitiveness.

The platform, which has disrupted the e-commerce landscape globally, offering ultra-low prices on a vast range of products, is facing stiff opposition from both businesses and consumers. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Sharp fall in condo sales to foreigners in the second quarter

Thailand’s property market has seen a sharp fall in foreign condominium purchases during the second quarter of 2024, according to the Government Housing Bank’s Real Estate Information Center (REIC).

A report released on Friday revealed a sharp drop in foreign condo transfers, totaling 14 billion baht, primarily attributed to challenges faced by Chinese buyers. Despite this, Chinese nationals remain the largest group of foreign property owners in the Thai market. Continued …

Alcohol industry wants strict ad curbs loosened

The Thai Alcohol Beverage Business Assn. (TABBA) is urging the government to amend Section 32 of the Alcohol Control Act to get rid of its “overly strict” curbs on alcohol advertising.

Association members joined with the Craft Beer Assn. to hold a seminar on Friday, titled “32 Civilized, No More Total Ban: Reforming Alcohol Control Laws for a Better Society”, to discuss the changes they would like to see. Continued …

PTT Oil branches out into health and wellness

As energy technology rapidly evolves, PTT Oil and Retail Business (OR) is diversifying its strategy into the “growth zone” of health and wellness.

OR formed strategic partnerships with leading companies from Japan and South Korea to drive its expansion into health and beauty retail, said Chief Executive Disathat Panyarachun. Continued …

KEX Express changes name to KEX

KEX Express (Thailand) has announced a strategic rebrand, changing its name and trademark to “KEX”. The express delivery provider aims to elevate its service strength through creativity and innovation to meet customers’ needs, said Chief Executive Alex Ng.

Ng said the rebranding reflects the company’s readiness to handle the complexities of modern logistics, ensuring high-quality, reliable deliveries and laying the foundation for continued market leadership. Continued …

Immigration and the New Government

The shock ousting of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is bound to reverberate in all sorts of directions. But it’s virtually certain that the new Pheu Thai-led administration will get around to immigration and visas sooner rather than later.

Thavisin’s vision was to expand massively the entry and extension opportunities for visa-exempt tourists, while creating a new visa for long-stayers with a lawful activity in mind. But the foreign affairs ministry, which pushed through the changes in Cabinet, may have bitten off more than the new government can chew. Continued …

Medical Tourism In ASEAN

RHB investment has relased an outlook report on ASEAN’s medical tourism, titled “ASEAN countries – the preferred medical tourism (MT) destination”. The report attempts to identify key investment ideas under the MT theme, given the region’s growing attractiveness to affluent travelers seeking premium medical treatment.

The report notes that beyond value-for-money service offerings, the rise of qualified professionals will continue to drive the MT industry in Southeast Asia. Among healthcare service providers in the region, the broking house identified its top picks – Medikaloka Hermina, Bundamedik, IHH Healthcare, KPJ Healthcare, Sunway Healthcare Group, Raffles Medical Group (RFMD), and Thailand’s Bangkok Dusit Medical Services (BDMS) and Bumrungrad Hospital (BH). Continued …

New app to make Chinese tourists feel at home

Pattaya launched an initiative aimed at enriching the travel experience for Chinese tourists. The Pattaya Business and Tourism Assn. hosted a meeting at the Sabai Sabana Hotel on Pattaya Soi 2 to unveil the “Wei Tai Guo” application.

During the event, Panawika Limpaphan, executive chairman of Digilink (Thailand) Co., introduced the new app. Panawika emphasized its partnership with WeChat Pay, aiming to make it a tool for Chinese tourists visiting Thailand. Continued …

Hyundai unveils EV plans in Thailand with Bt1 billion investment

South Korean auto giant Hyundai Motor has announced plans to invest 1 billion baht to manufacture electric vehicles under the Ioniq brand in Thailand, following investment promotion approval by the Board of Investment. Production is set to start in early 2026, with Thonburi Automotive Assembly, a long-time partner, handling assembly.

Hyundai Mobility Manufacturing (Thailand) said the investment would be used to establish EV and battery production facilities in Thailand, in line with the Thai government’s EV3.5 policy supporting the EV industry. Continued …

Smart Cities in Southeast Asia: Paving the Way for Sustainable Urban Development

In the dynamic landscape of Southeast Asia (SEA), smart cities are emerging as a beacon of hope for sustainable urban development. With rapid urbanization, cities in the SEA region are facing a multitude of challenges, from traffic congestion to environmental degradation. However, the integration of smart city technologies is beginning to make a significant difference.

Thailand is recognized as a frontrunner in the smart cities sector within the Southeast Asia region. According to data provided by Statista, the smart cities market will reach a revenue of US$228.70 million by the end of the year in the country, with a compound annual growth rate of 13.66%. Continued …

The 7 Best Historical Sites in Bangkok

Once a small village, now one of the most populous urban areas in the world, Bangkok has long been a top tourist destination. Beyond its striking food scene, over-the-top nightlife offerings, and buzzy night markets, Bangkok’s historical sites also offer an array of diverse experiences to inspire.

Temple of the Reclining Buddha

The Temple of the Reclining Buddha, also known as Wat Pho in Thai, is one of the largest temple complexes in Bangkok. It is home to over 1,000 Buddha statues, the country’s most extensive collection. The complex’s crown jewel is the 46-meter-long gold-plated Buddha. 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, healthcare, hua hin, pattaya, phuket, thai economy, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Saturday’s news-Aug 17

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Thailand’s 31st Prime Minister/Very much her father’s daughter/Is New PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra Or Her Father/PM’s 8.4-billion-baht business ventures/Policies under microscope/Thai PBS, TJA Slam Prawit/Tough road ahead for new PM/Hua Hin condos, Holiday Inn, water park/Heavy rain to hit 49 provinces/Secondhand smoke ‘kills 9,400 per year’/Consume less salt/Homelessness Remains Concern for Pattaya/Bangkok hails food bank/Convoy with illegal Chinese imports/Foreigners behaving badly/Economy: Likely scenarios for digital wallet/Investors await clarity/Manufacturing sector enjoying resurgence/Boost for elderly care industry/Tourism: Uncertainty looms over Thai tourism/Pattaya welcomes 12 miilion/Thai Lion Air expands fleet/Thailand Experience: Planet and people-friendly travel/How Social Media Threatens Wildlife//Visitors flock to Khamchanod/Where Tourists Travel Most/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

Thaksin’s daughter Elected as Thailand’s 31st Prime Minister

Paetongtarn Shinawatra, 37, was elected as Thailand’s 31st prime minister on Friday, gaining majority support from the House of Representatives. She becomes the country’s youngest and second female leader.

The House approved Paetongtarn with 319 votes in favor, 145 against, 27 abstentions, and 2 non-votes. As the daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, she brings a blend of political legacy and business expertise to the role. She holds degrees from Chulalongkorn University and the University of Surrey in the UK and has served as CEO of Rende Development, managing hotel and golf course enterprises. Continued …

Paetongtarn Shinawatra: very much her father’s daughter

Thaksin Shinawatra, who served as prime minister from 2001 to 2006 before being ousted in a bloodless coup, is leaving no doubt about his daughter’s Paetongtarn capacity to be prime minister, noting that she has inherited both his and her mother’s DNA. Acknowledging that his sister, Yingluck, was also removed from office in 2014, Thaksin says Paetongtarn is different.

Perhaps, but it’s all in the wording. During Yingluck’s 2011 election campaign, the slogan was “Thaksin thinks, Pheu Thai acts”, but when Paetongtarn led Pheu Thai in the 2023 election, Thaksin suggested the slogan should be: “Thaksin’s DNA thinks, Thaksin’s DNA acts.” Continued …

Is Thailand’s New PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra Or Her Father, Thaksin Shinawatra?

Finally, Paetongtarn Shinawatra has been voted by members of parliament as Thailand’s 31st prime minister and became the youngest prime minister in Thai history at the age of 37.

Her chief qualification seems to be that she’s a daughter of arguably the most influential (former) politician in Thailand – ex-convict-cum-former-premier Thaksin Shinawatra, who is still on parole. This is not to say she has no abilities whatsoever. Continued …

A peek into new PM’s 8.4-billion-baht business ventures

Businesswoman Paetongtarn Shinawatra, leader of the Pheu Thai Party, was elected as Thailand’s 31st prime minister in a parliamentary voting on Friday. At 37, she became the country’s youngest prime minister and second woman premier after her aunt Yingluck Shinawatra, who served from 2011 to 2014.

The youngest daughter of billionaire business tycoon and former PM Thaksin Shinawatra (2001-2006), Paetongtarn has mirrored her father’s career path by investing in a diverse range of businesses before entering politics. Continued …

New PM’s policies under microscope

Business leaders are eager to know the direction of Thai economic policies after the Pheu Thai Party leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra was elected prime minister, which could cause a dramatic shift in the country’s political landscape.

Amonthep Chawla, chief economist at CIMB Thai Bank, said, “I anticipate the new administration may cancel the digital wallet scheme, and is likely to introduce new stimulus measures aimed at supporting lower-income individuals and enhancing liquidity in vulnerable segments of the population.” Continued …

Thai PBS, TJA Slam General Prawit for Reporter Intimidation

The Thai PBS and the Thai Journalists’ Assn. (TJA) are urging Palang Pracharath party leader Gen. Prawit Wongsuwan to take responsibility for allegedly intimidating a Thai PBS reporter.

Prawit, known for his ambitions to become Thailand’s prime minister, showed visible agitation when approached by the Thai PBS reporter. She had questioned him about whether he had watched the MPs’ live broadcast voting to appoint Pheu Thai party leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra as Thailand’s 31st prime minister. Continued …

International media predicts tough road ahead for Thailand’s new PM

International media reports have highlighted the challenges facing Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Thailand’s youngest-ever prime minister, after being elected by parliament yesterday.

According to Reuters, despite Paetongtarn’s relatively easy victory in the vote, her lack of political experience means she faces a “baptism of fire” as she takes over from former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who was ousted by the Constitutional Court just two days earlier. Continued …

Hua Hin condos, Holiday Inn, water park in partnership

Continued …

Heavy rain to hit 49 provinces

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued a warning for heavy rainfall across 49 provinces, affecting the northern, northeastern, eastern, southern regions, as well as Bangkok, with 70% of the area expected to experience storms this afternoon and evening.

The southern region (east coast) will see thunderstorms and heavy rain in 60% of the area, particularly in Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. Temperatures will range from 23 to 26°C, with highs of 35 to 36°C. Southwesterly winds are expected at speeds of 15 to 30 kilometers per hour. Sea waves are expected to reach heights of approximately 1 meter, with waves over 2 meters in stormy areas. Continued …

Secondhand smoke ‘kills 9,400 per year’ in Thailand

More than 9,000 people die as a result of secondhand smoke in Thailand each year, a rate higher than that of the United States, says a recent report.

The Office of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) reported on the country’s social situation for the first quarter of 2024 to the cabinet recently, a source said. Continued …

Experts call on Thais to consume less salt

Experts are urging the public to consume less salt to reduce the risk of preventable diseases, such as heart disease and stroke, after a report found that the average Thai consumes almost twice the recommended daily intake.

In an effort to raise public awareness of the dangers of consuming too much sodium, Less Salt – a network of health advocacy groups that is pushing for clearer guidelines on sodium consumption – has been cataloging the average sodium content of food typically consumed by Thais. Continued …

Homelessness Remains Pressing Concern for Pattaya

Pattaya municipal officers have been intensifying their daily efforts to address the issue of homelessness in the city, yet the problem persists. Municipal officers conducted a recent operation to manage and relocate homeless individuals around the city.

During their patrol, they found two homeless individuals, a man and a woman, lying across the entrance of a residence near the TIP shop on Thepprasit Road, blocking the doorway just before the Thappraya intersection. Continued …

Bangkok hails food bank scheme for the poor

Bangkok City Hall said its food bank initiative has turned over 315 tons of surplus food that would have otherwise been discarded as waste into over 1.3 million meals for the city’s poor and vulnerable residents.

Since BKK Food Bank launched on Aug. 8, individuals and businesses across the city have donated 315,741.42 kilograms of surplus food, which have been redistributed to 67,449 residents in need, said Pornphrom Vikitsreth, adviser to Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt on sustainability. Continued …

Police intercept convoy with illegal Chinese imports in Kalasin

Highway police intercepted three 10-wheel trucks loaded with illegal Chinese imports Thursday. The operation took place on Highway 299, kilometres 19-20, in Phai subdistrict, Mueang district, Kalasin province.

The convoy, consisting of Hino trucks, was traveling from Somdet district toward Kalasin province when officers flagged them down for inspection due to suspicions about the contents. Continued …

  • Hong Kong Nationals Arrested for Smuggling 14kg of Heroin – Continued …
  • Vietnamese man held in robbery of cryptocurrency from Chinese businessman – Continued …

Four likely scenarios for the digital wallet scheme under new PM

Political analysts have been pondering about the future of the government’s digital wallet scheme after Srettha Thavisin was removed as prime minister on Wednesday by the Constitutional Court due to lack of integrity.

The scheme is the flagship election promise of the ruling Pheu Thai Party. Under the scheme, Thai citizens aged 16 years and above, whose annual income is less than 840,000 per annum and do not have 500,000 baht in bank deposits, will receive 10,000 baht per person as a digital handout to spend at local businesses. The move is estimated to boost domestic spending and improve the country’s sluggish economy. Continued …

Investors await clarity on cabinet, digital wallet

The SET index plunged at midweek after the Constitutional Court ruled against Srettha Thavisin in an ethics case, removing him as prime minister.

However, shares rallied as Paetongtarn Shinawatra was quickly confirmed as his replacement, and investors looked forward to the formation of a new cabinet. Continued …

Thai manufacturing sector enjoying a resurgence within ASEAN

Thailand’s manufacturing sector is experiencing a resurgence, positioning itself as a key player in the ASEAN region, according to Board of Investment (BOI) Deputy Secretary-general Narucha Ruchuphan.

Speaking at a press conference earlier this week, he said Thailand was strategically positioned to become a manufacturing powerhouse in Southeast Asia, citing government support, skilled workforce, and robust infrastructure as key factors. Continued …

Aging society a boost for elderly care industry

The country’s aging society is helping the elderly care industry to thrive, says the Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO). Director-general Poonpong Naiyanapakorn said Thailand is now an aging society, as the number of elderly continues to rise while the birth rate declines.

According to United Nations (UN) data, 13.06 million people in Thailand were aged over 60 last year, accounting for 20% of the total population. This represented a 4.3% increase on the previous year. Continued …

Uncertainty looms over Thai tourism policies after PM reshuffle

Thailand’s tourism policies face uncertainty following the forced resignation of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin on Aug. 14. The new government, led by new Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, daughter of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, must now decide whether to continue the tourism policies of the previous administration.

According to Thai law, ongoing policies with approved budgets will continue to be implemented, regardless of the change in leadership. However, proposed initiatives whose budgets have not yet been approved will depend on the new administration’s priorities. Continued …

Pattaya welcomes 12 miilion-plus visitors

Pattaya welcomed more than 12 million tourists in the first six months of this year, a million more than in 2023, according to the local Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) office.

TAT Pattaya office director Urai Mukpradabtong said tourism in Chon Buri province saw a 9.3% increase in visitors, rising from 11.61 million reported during the same period last year. Continued …

Thai Lion Air expands fleet, aims for 7 million passengers

Thai Lion Air is expanding its fleet and reinstating routes in response to rising tourism demand, aiming for 6-7 million passengers and achieving its first post-pandemic profit.

Thai Lion Air chief Nuntaporn Komonsittivate made known that domestic and international routes have recovered by 60%, supported by an increase in operational jets to 20 from 11 in recent years. Continued …

Discover planet and people-friendly travel in Thailand

Thailand is known for its picture-perfect beaches, beautiful temples, culinary delights and friendly locals, but the country is also becoming a leader in sustainable and responsible travel.

The Southeast Asian paradise is encouraging visitors to make ethical choices when visiting wildlife centers and animal sanctuaries, to book with local businesses when it comes to accommodation and tourism services, and also suggesting to venture further afield to the unspoiled parts of the country, meaning you can immerse yourself in its natural wonders and fascinating culture safe in the knowledge that they will be respected, preserved and supported for years to come. Continued …

How Social Media Threatens Wildlife

Social media’s ability to make remote locations instantly famous has become a major threat to sensitive habitats. When stunning photos of “undiscovered” natural wonders go viral on TikTok or Instagram, they can spark an influx of visitors that overwhelms delicate ecosystems.

This phenomenon has impacted species across the globe. In China, the critically endangered blue-crowned laughingthrush has been forced to alter its nesting habits due to an onslaught of photographers seeking rare shots. Fragile orchid populations have been decimated after location data was shared online, with one newly discovered species in Vietnam driven to extinction in just six months. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Visitors flock to Khamchanod for sacred water bowl ritual

Visitors flocked to Khamchanod Island yesterday to catch a glimpse of the sacred water bowl ritual and seek lucky numbers. The ceremony, led by Chawakan Khamwansa, drew a large crowd hoping for good fortune and blessings from Father Pu Sri Sutho and Mother Ya Sri Pratumma.

Tourists from across Thailand journeyed to the island, navigating the bridge to pay their respects at the main shrine. Guided by Chawakan, the visitors offered prayers before moving to the giant fig tree and the holy well, both significant spots on the island. Continued …

Where in Thailand Do Tourists Travel Most

Consistently ranked among the world’s top 10 most visited travel destinations, it’s no surprise Thailand’s capital, Bangkok, welcomed over 25 million tourists in 2023. 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, cha am, climate change, healthcare, hua hin, immigration, medical tourism, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, retirement, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, tourism, transportation

Tuesday’s news-Aug 13

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Santorini Park for sale/Sheraton Hua Hin launches Kids Club/New dual-track railway opens/Retiring to Thailand/How to detect call center scams/Tough on hazardous waste/Toxic Waste Cargo/Economy: Inflation falls slightly/Rules for digital wallets/Informal workers’ welfare/Chinese Target Thai Bus and Restaurant Sectors/Chinese steel investments/Tesla cancels factory plans/MG leads investment push/Race for Electric Vehicle Dominance/Search for tech talent/Tourism: Blowback begins about visa exemptions/Key to future travel?/Solutions for overtourism/Thailand Medical Tourism Analysis/6 tourists stranded in floods/Fight Between Tourists and Local Workers/Phuket to boost safety initiatives/Etihad Airways’ New Flights/Thailand Experience: Taste tinglers in Bangkok/International/Links: Climate Thailand/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

Cha Am’s Santorini Park for sale

Continued …

Sheraton Hua Hin launches Kids Club

Continued …

New dual-track railway opens on southern line

The southern dual-track route from Nakhon Pathom to Chumphon covering 421 kilometers was opened to passengers on Monday, the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) said.

Ekkarat Sriarayanpong, chief of the office of the governor of SRT, said that although signal installation on the route is not expected to be completed until next year, it will reduce travel time to tourist attractions in Prachuap Khiri Khan and Chumphon, as well as facilitating logistics. Continued …

Retiring to Thailand leads to a busy life for US man

When Jonathan Dawson was looking for a place to move from Rochester (New York state) to retire, he looked to East Asia. After visiting China, Vietnam and Philippines among other destinations, he decided to settle in Thailand. The country seemed to fit his needs for cost, beauty, and in quality of medical care and food.

“Thailand is just very special,” he said during a visit to Minnesota in early August. “What got me to go there is that you can explore all those things that you might be wanting to do in retirement, I found it easier to do in Thailand.” Continued …

How to detect call center scams with two simple steps

A simple trick reveals how to check if a strange number calling you is from a call center scam. Just follow two easy steps to know immediately if it’s a scammer.

Call center scams have become a widespread issue in Thailand, affecting people of all ages, professions, and backgrounds. Many individuals have become wary and have started avoiding answering calls from unfamiliar numbers. Continued …

Ministries get tough on hazardous waste

The Industry Ministry is working with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment and related agencies to draft a plan to assist areas recently contaminated with chemical waste, its boss told media on Monday.

Nattapol Rangsitpol, permanent secretary of the Industry Ministry, went on to say that he is aware of the problems caused by the illegal dumping of hazardous substances in Rayong, Ayutthaya, Chachoengsao, Nakhon Ratchasima and Phetchabun. The ministry has dispatched a team to monitor complaint hotspots while it tries to find a lasting solution. Continued …

Email link – kenbrown@businessclassasia.com

Thailand Races to Stop Toxic Waste Cargo

Thai authorities are racing to stop about 100 shipping containers allegedly filled with hazardous industrial waste from Albania reaching the nation’s ports.

Basel Action Network, a U.S.-based nonprofit that tracks toxic trade, which previously alerted Malaysia to illegal e-waste shipments, last week informed Thailand that containers the organization believes is filled with potentially harmful electric arc furnace dust were heading its way. Continued …

Inflation falls slightly for fourth consecutive month

Thailand’s inflation rate continued its downward trend in July, easing by 0.83%, marking the fourth consecutive month of deceleration, according to the Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO), Commerce Ministry.

While overall inflation for the first seven months of 2024 is expected to be a modest 0.11%, the TPSO warns that fluctuations in oil, food and service prices will remain key drivers of consumer costs. Continued …

Government clarifies rules for withdrawing cash from digital wallets

Deputy government spokesperson Karom Polpornklang recently clarified the procedures for cash withdrawals by merchants participating in the digital wallet scheme. His remarks were in response to incorrect online claims that suggested limitations on merchant transactions, specifically that cash withdrawals were not permitted and transactions were confined to large retail stores.

Karom explained that the project is designed to support small merchants. It allows them to conduct transactions within their local districts through an electronic payment system, ensuring these are direct and face-to-face. The system explicitly excludes transactions with large department stores and wholesale entities. Continued …

Thailand to introduce bill for informal workers’ welfare

The government of Thailand is set to introduce a bill aimed at enhancing the quality of life and providing welfare protection for the country’s 20 million informal workers, including internet influencers and farmers who currently lack access to a social safety net.

This new legislation seeks to encompass independent workers such as farmers, freelancers, vendors, artists, actors, YouTubers, influencers, and food delivery riders within a formal social welfare scheme. These groups now represent a significant portion of the workforce, yet are not formally recognized under current labor laws. Continued …

Chinese Companies Target Thai Bus and Restaurant Sectors for Expansion

Chinese companies have set their sights on Thailand’s struggling bus and restaurant sectors, sparking concern among local business owners. Plagued by high operational costs and continuing losses, many Thai bus operators are now contemplating selling their businesses. This dire situation has caught the attention of Chinese bus manufacturers and operators keen on expanding their market into Thailand.

Sources indicate that Chinese firms are particularly eager to introduce electric buses. This initiative comes at a critical time, when nearly half of Thailand’s bus fleet is out of commission due to financial difficulties. Continued …

Chinese steel investments threaten Thai industry, warns FTI

The Thai steel industry is at risk of being dominated by Chinese companies setting up steel factories in the country, the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) warned on Monday.

Kriengkrai Thiennukul, the federation’s chairman, said that the Thai steel industry’s capacity utilization rate has dropped to its lowest in seven years, with the first six months of this year showing a rate of 29.3%, down from 31.2% in the same period last year. Continued …

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Tesla cancels factory plans in ASEAN

Tesla has scrapped plans to build plants in the ASEAN countries, according to reports. Quoting an anonymous official source, media reported that Tesla had pulled out the team overseeing the project late last year.

Tesla is currently only discussing charging stations, with factory plans suspended in Thailand and worldwide. “They are not proceeding in Malaysia, Indonesia, or anywhere else except for China, America, and Germany,” said the source. Continued …

MG leads investment push for hybrid EVs

The hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) market in Thailand is expected to intensify as automakers announce investment plans, with Chinese-Thai joint venture SAIC Motor-CP and MG Sales (Thailand) unveiling plans to produce HEVs under the MG brand in Chon Buri by 2025.

MG is looking for a new business opportunity in the domestic market where HEV sales have increased rapidly, especially after the Board of Investment (BoI) launched an investment incentive package to promote HEV manufacturing, said Pongsak Lertruedeewattanavong, vice president of MG Sales (Thailand). Continued …

Thailand Advances in the Race for Electric Vehicle Dominance

BYD, the Chinese new energy vehicle manufacturer and second largest manufacturer by sales globally, and BMW, the renowned German luxury car brand, have both decided to establish manufacturing bases in Thailand for electric vehicles (EVs) and batteries.

Despite their very different journeys, their decision to set up operations in Thailand alongside a multitude of other EV car and battery manufacturers highlights the country’s growing appeal as a manufacturing hub for the industry. Continued …

Thailand continues search for tech talent

Thailand can become a home for global tech talent by leveraging its geopolitical advantages, natural resources, and designing policies to attract young workers, according to executives.

This would facilitate knowledge transfer and talent exports in the future, said panellists at a discussion entitled “Home for Tech Talent: Driving Mobility in a Globalized World”, part of the Techsauce Global Summit 2024 held last week. Continued …

Blowback begins about latest visa exemptions and DTV

It’s less than a month since the latest immigration-related changes were introduced. But Thai spokespeople are having some trouble swallowing the detail and repercussions.

Sisdivachr Chweewarattanaporn, president of Thai Travel Agents, said, “The 60-days visa-free scheme for foreign tourists will allow more foreigners to work illegally in Thailand. Typically, those visiting Thailand for tourism tend to stay less than a month.” Continued …

Do blue zones hold the key to future travel?

What constitutes a perfect holiday? Clearly there are vastly divergent views on this. Pundits and peripatetics have long struggled with this conundrum, never quite finding a satisfying answer.

The Chinese, Japanese, Australians, Indians, Americans and Europeans all travel with different expectations. Europeans chase the sun, Indians detest the heat and favor mad monsoon binges. Some crave delicacy in food to intrigue the palate, while others need head-exploding chillies and spice. Dreams are different from country to country. When it comes to romance, one shoe will never fit all. Continued …

Solutions in sight for global overtourism

If you recently visited Barcelona, Mallorca or Venice, you’re a bad tourist who should have stayed home. At least that’s what the anti-tourism protests this summer in certain parts of Europe would have you believe.

Already this year, 142 countries are projected to exceed their pre-pandemic tourism performance, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council. (That’s out of a total of 185 countries that the organization tracks.) In the next decade, tourism is predicted to grow into a $16 trillion industry that will generate 12.2% of global jobs. But the crowds and rising costs that come with it have locals in many cities feeling weary. Continued …

Thailand Medical Tourism Analysis Report 2024-2030

Medical treatments and procedures in Thailand are more affordable as compared to that in Western countries, making it a better option for those looking for high-quality medical care at a lower cost.

Thailand is well-connected by air to major cities around the world, making it convenient for patients to travel to the country for medical treatment. The country also offers visa-free arrivals for citizens of many countries, making it easier for patients to access healthcare services. Continued …

6 tourists stranded in heavy floods in Mae Hong Son rescued

Heavy overnight rainfall left Mae Hong Son’s Pang Mapha district so paralyzed from heavy flooding that officials had to be dispatched to evacuate six stranded tourists.

Weerapong Ratanasri, the district’s chief, was alerted at 7am that heavy rain through the night and early morning had flooded the Pang Mapha Field Crops Research Center and made the main road inaccessible. Continued …

Fight Breaks Out Between Tourists and Local Workers on Karon Beach

A photograph sparked online controversy yesterday when it depicted a physical fight involving Indian tourists and local umbrella handlers at Karon Beach in Phuket. The image, which showed the locals throwing punches, was posted on a popular social media page and quickly went viral, creating a flurry of reactions from internet users.

Users left a variety of comments on the post. Some blamed the free visa program for lowering the caliber of tourists. The focus then shifted to the behavior of the Indian tourists. Continued …

Phuket to boost safety initiatives for high season

Tourist safety needs to be a top priority in Phuket for the upcoming high season, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said. Srettha made the comments when meeting with tourism-related agencies in Phuket on Sunday to prepare for the upcoming tourist high season from September to February.

According to a source, the premier stressed that all relevant agencies, especially police officers, should be ready to provide services to tourists and address potential crimes, whether committed by or against tourists. Continued …

Etihad Airways Introduces New Flights to Thailand

Etihad Airways has revealed its plan to significantly expand its operations to Singapore and Thailand, which is expected to have a considerable impact on global travel. The UAE’s national carrier, known for its commitment to luxury and service, announced that it will introduce its A380 double-decker aircraft on the Singapore route starting from Feb. 1, 2025.

Etihad also plans to increase its flight frequency to Thailand, aiming to boost its weekly flights from the current 35 to 41. This increase will take effect from Oct. 27. Specifically, the new schedule will include 21 flights to Bangkok and 20 flights to Phuket, compared to the current 18 and 17 flights, respectively. Continued …

New taste tinglers in Bangkok for your palate

Bangkok is a city that never sleeps, at least in the food and beverage department. Blink and you’ll miss another new restaurant opening or a drink launch. Guru By Bangkok Post is making sure that even if you blink, you don’t miss out on the new taste tinglers that are worth mentioning.

Beer Pradith

A new bar on the up-and-coming Banthat Thong Road, Beer Pradith serves a collection of Thai craft beers from four regions, all on 24 taps. Continued …

ASEAN eyes nuclear energy, but airs safety concerns

Members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) are keen to explore nuclear energy to meet climate commitments and promote energy security, but they still need to overcome concerns over safety and funding, a regional forum heard recently. Continued …

Russia evacuates another border region amid growing Ukraine threat

Russia on Monday evacuated parts of another region next to Ukraine after Kyiv sharply increased military activity near the border just days after its biggest incursion into sovereign Russian territory since the start of the 2022 war. Continued …

Prabowo commits to continue building Indonesia’s new capital

Indonesia’s President-elect Prabowo Subianto said he is committed to “continue, and if possible finish” the new capital, dispelling uncertainty as to whether the incoming leader will abandon the multibillion-dollar project of his predecessor to pursue his own policy agenda. 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