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Wednesday’s news-Sept 24

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Memorial Sunday for American/Wyndham Hua Hin Pranburi sponsors youth football/Miss Grand PKK may get her title back/Thailand faces fresh flood fears/Flooding in 16 provinces/Massive Road Collapse n Bangkok/New ride-sharing rules/ECONOMY: Senate Sends Casino Plan Packing/Cheaper fares and 60 billion baht stimulus/Thai vehicle production falls/Gen Z favors Thai products/TOURISM: Can Tourism Help Save Itself?/7.4% y/y drop in foreign visitors/Assurance sought on Land Bridge/TAT woos Chinese tourists/Air India Express Bangkok to Bengaluru/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Dining Solo At Thai Restaurants/Bangkok restaurants to recommend/Top destinations this October/CLIMATE THAILAND: Solar Projects in Sattahip/New electricity supply model/Oil exploration in Andaman/Toxin levels rise in Kok River/Thailand 3rd in ASEAN e-waste generation/FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS

Memorial planned Sunday for American found dead in Cha-am

The hash community is holding a gathering to remember James, an American who was found dead in Cha-am this past weekend, after having been reported missing for seveal weeks. The event will raise some money for his widow. The event will start around 4:45 PM on Sunday at the beach access behind the 7-11/Amazon complex in Khao Takiab town, accepting donations of Bt200 a head. Location.

At about 5 PM there will be a run/walk. After the run/walk, some water and soft drinks, and a few cases of beer, will be available.

According to one friend, “He was a really nice, happy, energetic and intelligent guy, and was friends with people all across the spectrum, from local petanque champions to the pub quiz crowd to the dog rescue folks and on, you name it. We genuinely do miss having him around, so we wanted to have one event between all of us to celebrate our friend and do what we can for his wife.”

Wyndham Hua Hin Pranburi sponsors local youth football club

As part of its ongoing commitment to empower Thai youth through sports, Wyndham Hua Hin Pranburi Resort & Villas is championing youth sports by sponsoring local youth football club PP United.

Wyndham Hua Hin Pranburi initially donated Bt4,000 to help provide essential training resources for 40 young athletes, including sports equipment, apparel, coverage for competition fees, and travel and accommodation support during tournaments. Earlier this year, the resort also provided financial assistance to the football team at Paknampran School. Continued …

Miss Grand Prachuap Khiri Khan may get her title back

The head of Miss Grand Thailand is considering reinstating the crown to a former beauty queen who was stripped of her title on Sunday over explicit videos and images from her past.

The Miss Grand Thailand 2026 competition announced the removal of 27-year-old Suphannee “Baby” Noinonthong, the representative from Prachuap Khiri Khan province, on Sunday. Her title was revoked just one day after she was crowned on Saturday. Continued … 

Typhoon Ragasa fuels storms as Thailand faces fresh flood fears

Thailand’s Meteorological Department (TMD)has warned residents nationwide of heavy rain, thunderstorms and rough seas as the monsoon trough and a nearby typhoon intensify.

The TMD warned that the north and northeast remain under the influence of the monsoon trough, while the southwest monsoon is prevailing over the Andaman Sea, Gulf of Thailand, and much of the southern, central and eastern regions. Officials urged residents in the upper country to be on alert for flash floods and river overflows, particularly near foothills and lowlands. Continued …

Flooding in 16 provinces reported, impacting 200,000+, with 4 fatalities

The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) reported yesterday) that 16 provinces remain affected by flooding, covering 63 districts, 372 subdistricts, and 2,077 villages. A total of 74,972 households, or 251,382 people, have been impacted, with 4 fatalities reported: 1 in Phetchabun, 1 in Phichit, and 2 in Ayutthaya.

In the Chao Phraya River basin, following adjustments to water discharge from the Chao Phraya Dam, floodwaters have overflowed the riverbanks, affecting 8 provinces in central Thailand: Uthai Thani, Chai Nat, Sing Buri, Ang Thong, Suphan Buri, Ayutthaya, Pathum Thani, and Nakhon Pathom. Continued …

Massive Road Collapse Near Hospital in Bangkok Triggers Evacuation

A road collapsed yesterday to a depth of 50 meters near Bangkok’s Vajira Hospital, prompting On Tuesday morning (September 24, 2025), Dusit district authorities announced the immediate closure of traffic from Vajira intersection to Sanghi intersection and the surrounding areas after a section of Samsen Road severely subsided, damaging nearby utilities and posing risks to commuters.

At around 7am, traffic police from Samsen station reported that the road surface in front of Vajira Hospital had collapsed, causing a burst water pipe. Authorities shut down traffic to allow urgent repairs. Continued …

New ride-sharing rules present some roadblocks

Thailand plans to enforce new regulations for ride-hailing platforms in October, aiming to enhance safety, transparency, and reliability for passengers, drivers, and platform operators.

The announcement made by the Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA) assigns additional responsibilities to ride-sharing platforms involving public cars and motorcycles that have specific characteristics defined by the Digital Platform Service law. Continued …

Thai Senate Sends Casino Plan Packing, Cites High Risks

Thailand’s Senate has decisively rejected the bill to create integrated entertainment complexes with casinos, citing severe concerns about societal impact, economic disruption, and national security threats. This bill, backed by the administration of Paetongtarn Shinawatra, was scrutinized by a special Senate committee, resulting in a damning report that warned of increased money-laundering risks and the potential erosion of public trust.

The evaluation urged that any future casino legalization efforts require public input via a national referendum. Sen. Sornchat Vichaya Suwannaprom proposed forming a new study group to explore alternative models, such as complexes without casinos or tightly regulated casino zones, using international examples like Sydney’s tourist-only casino access as a potential template. Continued …

Cheaper fares and 60 billion baht stimulus boost planned

The government announced a two-phase transport plan aimed at cutting travel costs and easing living expenses, with fare and subsidy details expected soon.

Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn announced a short-term, four-month initiative to cut public transport costs, covering electric rail fares, bus services, and expressway fees. Specific details are expected within a week, while long-term strategies are also being drafted. Continued …

Thai vehicle production falls

The Automotive Industry Club of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) yesterday reported on August 2025 production, domestic sales, and exports of cars and motorcycles in Thailand:

Total vehicle production in August 2025 reached 112,366 units, up 1.6% from July but down 6.1% from August 2024 due to a 10.7% decline in exports. Domestic production rose 4.1%, driven by increased electric vehicle (EV) output replacing imported EVs from 2022-2023. From January to August 2025, total production was 947,697 units, a 5.8% decrease from the same period in 2024. Continued …

Gen Z favors Thai products while working adults turn away

Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, director-general of the Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO), revealed the findings of a nationwide survey conducted in August 2025 involving 5,467 respondents. The study examined Thai consumers’ preferences for domestic products across categories.

The survey showed that Thai products remain popular overall, particularly in the food and beverage sector, which retained the highest level of consumer preference. Meanwhile, beauty and fashion items are gaining increasing traction, especially among younger generations, with strong potential for further growth in the years ahead. Continued …

Can Tourism Help Save the Places It Endangers?

On Maya Bay in Thailand, the turquoise water once shimmered like a screensaver. But after the movie “The Beach” put the small cove on the global map 25 years ago, boatloads of tourists came chasing the fantasy. The heavy crowds contributed to cloudy water, crumbling coral reefs, and catastrophic drops in fish populations. Officials now close the bay for two months each year to allow the ecosystem to recover.

The pattern extends far beyond Thailand. In Iceland, a country of just 380,000 residents, nearly 2.3 million tourists arrived in 2024, leaving its volcanic landscapes scarred by erosion and overuse. In the Galápagos Islands, nearly 330,000 visitors prompted officials to double entry fees in an effort to protect fragile habitats from mounting pressure. And on Mount Kilimanjaro, increasing numbers of trekkers have left trails eroded and litter-strewn, prompting stricter regulations on climbing expeditions. Continued …

Thailand records 7.4% y/y drop in foreign visitors so far in 2025

Thailand’s foreign tourist arrivals from Jan. 1 to Sept. 21 fell 7.4% from the same period a year earlier, the Tourism Ministry said yesterday. There were about 23.45 million foreign visitors during the period. Malaysia was the largest source market with 3.38 million visitors, followed by China with 3.3 million.

In August, the state planning agency cut its forecast for foreign tourist arrivals this year to 33 million from 37 million. There was a record of nearly 40 million visitors in 2019, before the pandemic. – Reuters

Assurance sought by tourism operators on land bridge impact

Southern tourism operators want the government to ensure the environmental impact will be minimal if it intends to press on with the land bridge megaproject, as locals hope the scheme will enhance southern cities’ competitiveness and increase household income.

The government under Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has vowed to proceed with the project that connects shipping routes between the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea with deep-sea ports, even though the government’s tenure is likely only four months. Continued …

TAT woos Chinese tourists with stars and shopping perks

Thailand has launched a tourism campaign  to attract more Chinese visitors, enlisting popular actors and offering perks as part of cultural celebrations.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) officially launched the Nihao Month initiative this month, running until the Chinese New Year in 2026. The campaign marks the 50th anniversary of Thai-Chinese relations and is timed to capture visitor traffic during China’s Golden Week holiday before sustaining momentum into the year-end. Continued …

Air India Express launches daily Bangkok link from Bengaluru

Air India Express will launch daily direct flights linking Bengaluru and Bangkok, offering travelers more convenience and competitive fares.

The new non-stop service begins on Oct. 18 and aims to boost connectivity for both leisure and business travelers. To mark the launch, the airline has rolled out introductory fares starting at 16,800 Indian rupees (about 7,300 baht) for a round trip. One-way fares are priced at 9,000 rupees (Bengaluru–Bangkok) and 8,850 rupees (Bangkok–Bengaluru). Continued …

Why Dining Solo At Thai Restaurants Can Feel Like A Mistake

One of the joys of Thai dining is discovering the variety of dishes available. Think rich coconut curries, fiery papaya salads, and fragrant soups. But when dining solo, your appetite can hinder the experience. One entrée and a mound of rice is usually plenty, which means you’ll miss out on the diversity of flavors — and that can feel like a huge mistake.

You see, Thai food isn’t built for the one-dish-at-a-time approach many Western diners are used to. In Thailand, meals are shared family-style. Several dishes hit the table at once, and everyone takes small portions from each. The dishes generally complement one another, balancing sweet, spicy, sour, and salty elements. Many Thai restaurants design their menus with this communal format in mind, with some offering portions meant for two or more. Continued …

Bangkok restaurants you’ll want to recommend again and again

Almost every Bangkokian has been there: your friends are visiting, and they start texting you weeks in advance, asking for your top recommendations. “Where shall I eat? What are the best Thai restaurants and food in Bangkok? Send me all your Bangkok food recommendations!”

Some of us end up recommending the same places over and over again, while others set out to really tailor to specific needs. This list aims to incorporate everyone from first-timers and picky eaters, all the way to adventurous pla raa regulars. Continued …

Top destinations to visit in Thailand this October

October marks the transition between Thailand’s rainy and cool seasons, offering travelers a unique blend of lush landscapes and vibrant cultural festivals. From mystical fireballs on the Mekong to serene mountain escapes, this month is one of the most enchanting times to explore the country.

One of the most iconic events is the Lotus Receiving Festival at Wat Bang Phli Yai in Samut Prakan, held from Sept. 30 to Oct. 8 Locals gather to toss lotus flowers onto a boat carrying a revered Buddha image, believing their wishes will be granted. The festival also features boat races, floating alms offerings, and bustling market stalls. Continued …

PEA and Navy Launch Solar Projects in Sattahip

The Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) has signed an agreement with the Royal Thai Navy to advance renewable energy projects in Sattahip. The initiative involves installing floating solar and ground-mounted solar farms across six naval sites, with a combined capacity of no less than 9,230 kWp.

The project will provide electricity generated on-site through solar systems integrated with a digital platform, allowing energy usage analysis and efficient power management. This approach is expected to reduce utility costs for the participating naval units while supporting national energy sustainability goals. Continued …

Panel urged to adopt new electricity supply model

Energy experts appointed to sit on a panel tasked with drafting a new power development plan (PDP) are being urged to reform the nation’s electricity supply policy. Thailand has long utilised the enhanced single buyer (ESB) system. The ESB system allows the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) to be the sole purchaser that sells electricity to the public.

If power companies want to sell electricity produced by renewable resources at present, they are required to sell it to EGAT and state power distribution agencies, which then distribute electricity via the grid to companies and households. Continued …

Oil exploration planned for Andaman

Energy authorities are planning to call for bids for petroleum exploration and production in the Andaman Sea during the new government’s tenure to increase Thai extraction levels.

They are working on the details of the Round 26 auction, preparing to announce an application date for prospective bidders, said an official at the Department of Mineral Fuels who requested anonymity. Continued … 

Toxin levels rise in Kok River

A Senate committee has warned of worsening arsenic and heavy metal contamination in the Kok River in Chiang Rai from mines in Myanmar’s Shan State.

The committee sounded the alarm after severe contamination levels of both were detected in the river, traced to mining operations in Shan State. It described this as a cross-border environmental crisis with serious economic and health consequences. Continued …

Thailand ranks 3rd in ASEAN for highest e-waste generation

Thailand produces 439,000 tons of electronic waste each year, behind Indonesia and the Philippines, as the region’s e-waste climbs to 12.3 million tons.

When it comes to “Zero Waste,” many people still wonder whether separating rubbish really makes a difference – or if, in the end, everything simply gets mixed again. The answer, according to Saichon Supmakudom, head of corporate communications and public affairs at Advanced Info Service (AIS), is no. Continued …

  • Naked Foreign Man Goes Wild in Phuket and Strangles Cop – Continued …
  • Korean scam gang in Pattaya busted for 478 million baht fraud haul – Continued …
  • Foreign Guides Arrested Over Illegal E-Bike Tours on Phangan – Continued …

Super typhoon Ragasa hits Hong Kong after battering Philippines and Taiwan

Super typhoon Ragasa has caused severe devastation in the Philippines and Taiwan, leaving many dead, injured, and missing, before bearing down on Hong Kong and southern China. Continued … 

Trump says Kyiv can win back ‘all of Ukraine’ in major shift

US President Donald Trump said yesterday that Ukraine could win back all of its territory from Russia – and even go further – in a major pivot after meeting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The astonishing turnaround came shortly after Trump also called for NATO countries to shoot down any Russian jets that violate their airspace. Continued …

Trump attacks UN and Europe in scathing speech

dent Donald Trump blasted the United Nations and Europe on his return to the world body yesterday, warning that migration is sending Western nations “to hell” and dismissing climate change as a “con job.” Continued …

NEW PAGE – Hua Hin 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

bangkok, exports, hua hin, pattaya, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thailand, tourism

Thursday’s news-July 31

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Slightly cheaper power bills/Thai Army vows decisive response/All Drone Flights Banned Nationwide/Nine die in firecrackers inferno/Storm Wipha update: 7 dead, 143 injured/Bomb Attack in Narathiwat/ECONOMY: US official says Thai trade deal done/Agency lifts GDP forecast/Automotive output rise/Thai Manufacturing Growth/Pet paradise unleashed/TOURISM: Thailand pulls out every trick/Tourism impact of border spat/Travel agents upbeat on Chinese/CAAT Considers Raising Airport Service Charge/Indian wedding tourism/Pattaya beach to get more sand/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: 5 Must-Try Bib Gourmand Restaurants/CLIMATE THAILAND: Missing pieces in clean power bid/FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/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

Slightly cheaper power bills seen on the horizon

The price of electricity will become slightly cheaper during the last four months of the year, as authorities have agreed to decrease the power tariff by 0.03 baht per kilowatt-hour (unit), says Energy Minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga.

The current power tariff, used to calculate monthly electricity bills, is 3.98 baht a unit, and is applicable until the end of August. Continued …

Thai Army vows decisive response if Cambodia continues ceasefire violations

The Royal Thai Army issued a statement yesterday condemning Cambodia’s repeated violations of the ceasefire agreement and warned that Thailand will respond decisively and appropriately should the attacks persist.

The army reiterated its unwavering commitment to restraint, peace, and the highest standards of humanitarian conduct. Details of the statement, titled “Violation of Ceasefire Agreement by the Cambodian Armed Forces”, are as follows: Continued …

Civil Aviation Authority Bans All Drone Flights Nationwide Until August 15

The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has issued a nationwide ban on all drone flights, effective immediately until Aug. 15, in response to tensions along the Thai–Cambodian border.

Under the directive, all civilian-operated unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), including those flown for recreational, commercial ,or academic purposes, are strictly prohibited throughout the kingdom. The only exemption applies to drones operated by state security agencies. Continued …

Nine die in Suphan Buri firecrackers inferno

A fireworks explosion killed nine people and injured another in Muang district late yesterday morning. The deadly explosion occurred at a house where bird-scaring firecrackers were being produced in Ban Pho Tha Sai, tambon Ban Pho,.

Police said nine people died in the explosion. Another person was injured and was rushed to hospital. All were Thai women. One dead victim was eight-months pregnant. Continued …

Storm Wipha update: 7 dead, 143 injured, 43 health facilities damaged

Storm Wipha has caused seven deaths, 143 injuries, and damage to 43 health facilities across seven provinces in Thailand.

The Ministry of Public Health reported on the impact of severe tropical storm Wipha as of July 29, with a total of seven provinces affected: Chiang Rai, Nan, Phrae, Phayao, Lampang, Chiang Mai, and Sukhothai. Continued …

Bomb Attack in Narathiwat Injures Six Police Officers and One Civilian

A roadside bomb exploded yesterday morning in Narathiwat province, injuring six police officers and a local resident. The incident occurred in the village of Jue Rae, Sako Subdistrict, in the troubled Sungai Padi District.

The target of the attack was a patrol unit assigned to provide security for teachers traveling in the area, a common practice in Thailand’s southern provinces, where such personnel have been frequent targets of insurgent violence. Continued …

US official says Thai and Cambodian trade deals done

US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick says the United States has reached trade agreements with Cambodia and Thailand, days after they agreed to a ceasefire at President Donald Trump’s urging after deadly clashes along their disputed border.

Trump had used trade talks as a cudgel to bring both nations to the negotiating table, threatening that Washington would not reach trade deals with either as long as the fighting continued. Continued … 

State agency lifts GDP forecast to 2.2%

The Fiscal Policy Office (FPO) under the Finance Ministry has slightly increased its Thai GDP growth forecast for this year to 2.2%, up from its previous estimate of 2.1% in April.

The upgrade is based on the assumption that US reciprocal tariffs will remain at lenient rates, in line with those applied to other countries in the region, said Pornchai Thiraveja, director-general of the FPO. Continued …

Automotive output rise spurs MPI increase

Thailand’s Manufacturing Production Index (MPI) increased by 0.58% year-on-year to 97.35 points in June, driven by the recovery of the car market, an increase in exports, and state stimulus measures, says the Office of Industrial Economics (OIE). However, the MPI fell by 3.47% from May when it was 100.79 points.

Car bookings at the 12-day Bangkok International Motor Show, which ended in early April, prompted car manufacturers to increase production to deliver cars to customers, contributing to the higher May MPI. Continued …

Thai Manufacturing Growth: A Mixed Signal for Southeast Asia’s Economic Recovery

Thailand’s manufacturing sector is sending conflicting signals to investors, caught between a short-term rebound and long-term uncertainties. While May 2025 data revealed a manufacturing PMI of 51.2 — the first expansion in 20 months — the broader picture remains nuanced.

This modest rise, driven by a 1.7-point jump in new orders linked to renewed export demand, suggests cautious optimism. Yet, the 2.5% annual growth in automotive production and 8% CAGR in electronics manufacturing highlight structural shifts that could redefine Southeast Asia’s industrial landscape. Continued …

Pet paradise unleashed at Bangkok’s epic expo

Bangkok’s Queen Sirikit National Convention Center is set to transform into a wonderland of whiskers, wagging tails, and wild surprises as the Pet Expo Championship 2025 kicks off with the theme “The Magical Land of Friendship”.

Running daily starting tomorrow, from 10am to 8pm until Sunday, the event promises non-stop fun, furry festivities, and some serious four-legged competition. Continued …

Thailand pulls out every trick to revive tourism — Pattaya a top focus

With the high season on the horizon, Thailand is going all out to keep its tourism engine running — and Pattaya is once again front and center. The government is stepping up efforts not only to attract international tourists but also to encourage more domestic travel during the low season.

The Ministry of Finance is in talks with the Ministry of Tourism and Sports to finalize new tax incentive measures designed to stimulate local tourism spending, with a rollout expected by August or September. Continued …

Tourism sector braces for impact of border spat

The tourism sector will start to feel the impact of the Cambodia border conflict if both sides do not completely end fighting within two weeks, and if the cross-border committee in Cambodia does not convene as scheduled on Aug. 4, say analysts.

After a week of deadly clashes and a ceasefire agreement by the two countries on Sunday, the Royal Thai Army reported continued attacks in disputed areas with Cambodia yesterday. Continued …

Travel agents upbeat on Chinese market

Chinese tourist arrivals have already passed their low point, and tour agents are showing renewed confidence in Thailand despite safety concerns fueled by border conflicts and a recent market shooting, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

TAT Gov. Thapanee Kiatphaibool said while concerns persist, the situation is showing signs of improvement, as Chinese visitor arrivals appear to have passed their nadir. Continued …

CAAT Considers Raising Airport Service Charge by October

In a bid to enhance airport operations, the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) is anticipating a decision on increased passenger service charges (PSC) by October. A significant hike could potentially add three billion baht to Airports of Thailand’s (AOT) annual revenue.

The current PSC for outbound travelers, unchanged for years, is under review by CAAT and AOT. This assessment seeks to align charges with actual operating costs, which are vital for infrastructure development. At present, AOT’s charge of 730 baht for international departures pales in comparison to regional rivals like Singapore’s Changi Airport, which charges around 1,400–1,500 baht. Continued …

HSBC sees Indian wedding tourism sparking foreign investment

Wedding tourism presents a significant opportunity to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) from India into Thailand, given the strong business ties between the two countries, according to HSBC.

The bank sees growing FDI potential across Asia, particularly between India and Thailand, supported by the positive momentum in the economic corridor linking the two nations. Continued …

Pattaya beach to get more sand

Thailand’s Marine Department held a high-level seminar yesterday to push forward Phase 2 of the Jomtien Beach Sand Replenishment Project — a multimillion-baht effort to combat coastal erosion and bring back beachgoers.

The first phase saw the restoration of 3,575 meters of beach across Na Jomtien and South Jomtien. Now, Phase 2 will add another 2,840 meters of new beachfront. Continued …

5 Must-Try Bib Gourmand Restaurants in Bangkok

The MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2025 continues to celebrate Bangkok’s vibrant food scene with new additions to the Bib Gourmand category — where bold flavors, time-honored recipes, and unbeatable value come together in true Thai style.

This year’s list in Bangkok takes diners on a flavor-packed journey across the capital, from century-old offal dishes to bold southern Thai staples. Whether you’re a seafood lover, spice chaser, or comfort food enthusiast, there’s something to savor — like stewed pig’s brain and liver sausage for breakfast, turmeric-fried frog and lotus-root curry for lunch, and crispy garlic tofu or stir-fried crab to wrap up the day. Continued …

Missing pieces in clean power bid

Two missing pieces in Thailand’s clean energy sector cast doubt on whether Thailand can reach its ambitious goals of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 and net-zero emissions by 2065.

Behind these targets, critical building blocks are still missing – especially energy storage systems (ESS) and electric vehicles (EVs) – which are essential to making clean energy reliable and practical. Continued …

  • 18 Foreign Nationals Arrested in Chiang Mai for Running Fraudulent Call Center – Continued …
  • Chinese National Arrested in Bangkok for Producing Drug-Laced Vape Products – Continued …
  • Six Kuwaiti Nationals Arrested for Reckless Motorbike Riding, No Licenses – Continued …Bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in BangkokThe first-class bus service between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin offers two round trips daily. The fare is 200 baht each way and takes three-and-a-half hours. The Hua Hin departure is from the current Transport Co. terminal just north of Hua Hin Airport.

    (We recommend checking with the bus company about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)

    Starting May 1, the Don Mueang-Hua Hin route will offer two round trips per day. The two outbound trips from Don Mueang Airport will depart at 8 am and 3 pm. The bus will stop at eight locations, including the Service Hall at Don Mueang, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal in Bangkok, Mahachai, Phetchaburi Big C, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, and the Hua Hin Bus Station.

    For the return trips from Hua Hin, buses will depart at  9 am and 3:30 pm, stopping at seven locations, including the Hua Hin Bus Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Mahachai, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal, and Don Mueang Airport.

    Online Booking and Customer Service: Facebook Page: BorKorSor; LINE ID: @TCL99; Website: TCL99 Transport.

    Bus Tickets 

    New Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

    Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):

    (We recommend checking with the airline about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)

    Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 12:10 pm

    Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 10:20 am

    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
                  • State Railway – 1590

     

bangkok, climate change, exports, healthcare, hospitality, hua hin, immigration, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, retirement, solar, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, thailand islands, tourism

Thursday’s news-May 29

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Bangkok Bank Bars Tourists/Blame for Helicopter Crash/‘Run Khan Do II’ brings wellness focus/Liverpool fans in Hua Hin celebrate/Covid Cases Surge/Schools told to stay open/Think you won’t live to 100?/Heavy rain and storms/Thai Education on the Cusp/Growth of international schools/Refugee children face hunger/Gunmen Attack Police Station/Dane Found Dead in Bangkok/Thailand-Cambodia border tensions/Inside the farms breeding tiger cubs/ECONOMY: US court blocks Trump’s tariffs/Diversify due to US tariffs/Stimulus fund to support exporters/Warns of rising bad debts/Thai export gain expected/Food street fad hits wall/MR. D.I.Y. Hits 1,000 Stores/TOURISM: Where are the tourists going?/Foreign Arrivals Under Scrutiny/Thailand ponders outbound travel tax/Record arrivals from Oceania/Nightmare in Phuket/Phuket boosts tourism/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Fees for Thai historical sites/CLIMATE THAILAND: Wind power firm plans expansion/Community-based forest restoration/Karex’s Thai factory to use solar/FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/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

Bangkok Bank Bars Tourists from Accounts in Fraud Crackdown

Thailand’s tourists and short-term visitors are hitting a banking brick wall, with Bangkok Bank axing account services for those without long-term visas. In a bid to ward off international cybercriminals, the bank, Thailand’s largest, has stopped tourists from opening deposit accounts, applying for credit cards, and using mobile services.

The crackdown, launched in January, targets fraud from “mule” accounts but has left digital nomads, seasonal workers, and remote professionals locked out of essential banking services. The changes have spurred confusion and frustration among these groups trying to navigate without everyday financial tools. Continued …

Faulty Equipment Said to Blame for Helicopter Crash

A senior Royal Thai Police official has confirmed that the recent police helicopter crash in Prachuap Khiri Khan province was caused by mechanical failure, not sabotage or external attack.

According to the investigation, the crash occurred when the helicopter’s main rotor malfunctioned, resulting in one of the blades severing the tail rotor. This caused the aircraft to lose stability and spin out of control, ultimately leading to a violent crash. Officials stressed that the incident was not the result of pilot error or negligence. Continued …

‘Run Khan Do II’ brings wellness focus to Hua Hin

Organizers said over 1,000 participants gathered at Rajabhakti Park yesterday for the third stage of the “Run Khan Do II” wellness running series, an event aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles and boosting local tourism in Prachuap Khiri Khan.

The race, held under the theme “Wing Kan Du Season 2”, was officially opened by Deputy Gov. Kittipong Sukhpakul, who flagged off the 5-kilometer walk-run inside the park. The event forms part of a nine-week program taking place across all eight districts of the province. Continued …

Liverpool fans in Hua Hin celebrate Premier League title with parade

A few hundred Liverpool fans took to the streets of Hua Hin on Monday afternoon to celebrate the club’s 2024/25 Premier League title. The event, organized by The Kop Hua Hin Thailand–YNWA and partners, featured a parade through the city followed by an evening of community activities at Market Village.

Supporters gathered outside Wat Wang Klai Kangwon before the parade. The route passed by Chiva-Som and turned at Nong Kae before reaching Market Village. Continued …

Covid Cases Surge to 67,484 in a Single Week

Thailand is grappling with a growing Covid-19 crisis, as 67,484 new cases were reported within a week, alongside eight fatalities. The presence of the Omicron variant, specifically JN.1, is driving the pandemic wave. With this recent surge, the cumulative number of cases this year skyrockets to 211,717, accompanied by 51 deaths, marking a significant rise from the previous year.

Dr. Jurai Wongsawat, a spokesperson for the DDC, pointed out the low mortality rate of 0.02% post-Songkran amid rising cases, owing to mostly mild symptoms. However, infection numbers have now breached the five-year median, notably surpassing those recorded in the same weeks in 2024. Continued …

Schools told to stay open despite Covid

Schools should not be closed to control a seasonal surge of Covid-19, as proper screening and isolation measures are sufficient to limit the virus’s spread within education institutions, says the Department of Disease Control (DDC).

Dr. Jurai Wongsawat, spokeswoman for the DDC, yesterday said cluster outbreaks of the virus have been identified in several settings: six outbreaks in prisons involving 198 cases, five in schools with 258 cases, two in military camps, totaling 178 cases, and one hospital cluster with 35 cases. Continued …

Think you won’t live to 100? You might be wrong, and it’ll cost you

Who wants to live to 100? Not a lot of us, as it turns out. America’s century club is getting larger, and reaching 100 is a realistic goal for a growing population of retirees. Longer life is a reward for improvements in exercise, diet and medical care.

Yet, it’s a club that only one in four Americans wants to join. Nationwide Retirement Institute, a division of the Nationwide insurance and financial services company, surveyed more than 1,000 people to gauge their thoughts on living a really long time. Most of us, they found, approach the topic with a mix of wonder and fear. Continued …

Thailand braces for heavy rain and storms across 42 provinces

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued a weather forecast warning for today, predicting heavy rainfall in 42 provinces across Thailand, with thunderstorms expected in 70% of Bangkok. Residents are urged to be cautious of potential flash floods and landslides.

In the south (east coast), 40% of the area will experience thunderstorms, mainly in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, and Surat Thani. Temperatures will be 24 to 26°C in the morning and 33 to 36°C later, with southwesterly winds at 15 to 30 kilometers per hour. Continued …

Thai Education on the Cusp of Transformation

The educational landscape in Thailand is set for a significant overhaul, as highlighted by Shrewsbury International School Bangkok city campus. In a future where global connectivity is paramount, the school underscores that bilingualism will no longer be merely an advantage but an essential skill, with language proficiency extending far beyond basic communication.

The institution has identified five key trends poised to reshape learning and equip the next generation for an increasingly complex world. Continued …

Hua Hin International School

Rising demand fuels growth of international schools in Thailand

The international school business in Thailand continues to experience steady growth, reflecting the increasing demand among parents who seek high-quality education for their children.

According to data from the Department of Business Development (DBD), as of April 30 there were 7,511 registered legal entities operating in the education sector, with a total registered capital of 50.63 billion baht. Continued …

Refugee children face hunger as aid dries up

More than 28,000 refugee children are returning to school along Thailand’s border with Myanmar, but as food rations are slashed and funding dries up, many face a harsh lesson in survival before they even crack open a book.

In Mae La, the largest of nine refugee camps hugging the Thai-Myanmar border, families say food aid cuts are making it harder than ever to keep children fed, let alone focused on learning. Continued …

Gunmen Launch Attack on Narathiwat Police Station

In a deadly assault on yesterday morning, a group of approximately 10 armed insurgents launched a coordinated attack on Chanae Police Station in Narathiwat province, resulting in the death of one police officer and serious injury to another.

The attack occurred at a security checkpoint outside Chanae Police Station, with eight officers on duty. The assailants, armed with military-grade weapons, including AK-47s and M16 rifles, concealed themselves in an alley opposite the station before opening fire on the officers. Continued …

Dane, Missing since March, Found Dead in Bangkok Police Cell

A mysterious disappearance has ended tragically with the death of a Danish tourist in a Bangkok police cell. Jakob Jensen, 41, was reported missing in March, sparking a frantic search by family and expats before his body was discovered in custody.

Jensen was last seen acting erratically on March 26 in Bangkok’s Khlong Toei district. Eyewitnesses reported him causing traffic chaos, shouting threats, and displaying aggressive behavior. Police, suspecting substance intoxication, detained him and later took him to Phra Khanong Police Station after treating a cut on his arm. Continued …

Military chiefs of Thailand and Cambodia to meet amid border tensions

The top military commanders of Thailand and Cambodia were to meet this afternoon after a brief gunfight between their troops at the undemarcated border close to Ubon Ratchathani province yesterday led to a death of a Cambodian soldier.

The meeting was to take place at the Chong Chom border pass in Thailand’s Surin province. The Thai delegation will be led by Army Commander in Chief Gen. Pana Klaewplodthuk. Continued …

Inside the farms breeding cubs for TikTok and Instagram likes

Champagne glasses clink at an exclusive Bangkok party, where guests in designer clothes laugh and mingle. They take turns posing with a cat, passing it casually from one to the other. But as the camera settles, it becomes clear this is no house cat – it’s a lion cub. One woman, in a red cocktail dress, lifts the animal to her face and blows a kiss at the camera, a glass of wine balanced in her other hand.

Clips such as this are flooding Instagram and TikTok, offering a glimpse into Thailand’s booming captive lion trade. According to a new report by the Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand and the Oxford Wildlife Trade Research Group, the number of lions in captivity has more than tripled since 2018 – a trend fueled in part by the rising popularity of exotic pets among the country’s wealthy elite. A growing network of lion farms cater to this demand – many of them run by amateurs with little experience in wildlife care. Continued …

US court blocks Trump’s tariffs, says president exceeded his authority

A U.S. trade court yesterday blocked President Donald Trump’s tariffs from going into effect in a sweeping ruling that the president overstepped his authority by imposing across-the-board duties on imports from nations that sell more to the United States than they buy.

The Court of International Trade said the U.S. Constitution gives Congress exclusive authority to regulate commerce with other countries that is not overridden by the president’s emergency powers to safeguard the U.S. economy. Continued …

Southeast Asia voices ‘urgency’ to diversify due to US tariffs

Southeast Asian leaders called out United States President Donald Trump’s tariff plans as causing uncertainties in commerce with their region’s largest export customer and underscoring an “urgency of diversifying trade beyond traditional markets.”

“We express deep concern over the recent announcement by the United States to impose unilateral tariffs and their potential impact on our economies,” the leaders said, according to a statement by the chairman of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Continued …

Central bank recommends using stimulus fund to support exporters

The Bank of Thailand (BOT) has urged the government to prioritize the recently approved 157-billion-baht economic stimulus fund toward supporting exporters and domestic manufacturers facing mounting challenges from intensified import flooding and global trade tensions.

The Cabinet meeting on May 20 approved the 157-billion-baht economic stimulus plan proposed by the Ministry of Finance, which involves reallocating the budget originally intended for the digital wallet handout program (Phase 3) to other projects. Continued …

KBank warns of rising bad debts as economic pressures mount

Kasikornbank (KBank) has raised concerns over the rising number of non-performing loans (NPLs) amid Thailand’s economic slowdown driven by the ongoing trade war and structural weaknesses in the business sector that predate the Covid-19 pandemic.

Amid the pressures of Thailand’s slowing economy, exacerbated by the new wave of the trade war with the U.S. and pre-existing structural weaknesses in Thai businesses that were already present before the Covid-19 pandemic, these factors have intensified the situation. There is now a noticeable increase in the “weakness” among the general population, including a rise in defaults by debtors. This has led to a growing number of delinquent payments across various businesses and credit sectors. Continued …

Thai export gain expected to exceed 4% this year

Thai exports could increase by more than 4% in 2025, according to Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan.

During a recent meeting with representatives from both public agencies and the private sector, Pichai discussed strategies to transform challenges into opportunities for export growth in the second half of the year. He said he was confident that export growth will exceed the initial target of 2%-3%, as the first four months of this year saw gains of 14%. Continued …

Food street fad hits wall

The recent plea by Banthat Thong Road restaurateurs for urgent assistance from the government should serve as a wake-up call, not a rallying cry for rescue packages. Their predicament, while unfortunate for individual operators, epitomizes the unsustainable practices of building businesses on social media spectacle rather than culinary excellence.

The lesson applies not only to food-and-beverage ventures but also to Thailand’s broader, government-funded “soft power” agenda. Up until a few years ago, the 2.5km-long Banthat Thong Road, which runs behind Chulalongkorn University and the National Stadium, had been a quiet neighborhood known for sporting goods and second-hand machinery shops. Continued …

MR. D.I.Y. Hits 1,000 Stores Nationwide

From a single store to a nationwide sensation, MR. D.I.Y., Thailand’s leading home improvement and lifestyle retailer, is celebrating a major milestone — 1,000 stores across all 77 provinces of Thailand.

The celebration officially kicked off at The Mall Lifestore Ngamwongwan, home to MR. D.I.Y.’s 1,000th store, marking the latest chapter in a journey that began in 2016. In just nine years, MR. D.I.Y. has transformed from a single-store operation into a national retail leader, offering over 15,000 products across six categories — from hardware to household essentials. Continued …

Where are the tourists going in Thailand?

Thailand has evolved from a backpacker haven to a luxury destination with five-star resorts and wellness retreats. Despite attracting high-end tourists, many seek authentic, quiet, and less-crowded destinations beyond typical hotspots.

The land of smiles has matured into something else entirely, as lush five-star resorts now rise where hammocks once swayed between coconut palms. Bangkok is no longer just a stopover, it’s become a sleek Asian metropolis with attractions on par with Singapore and Hong Kong. The islands, such as Koh Samui, Phuket and even Koh Yao, have gone full luxury, offering wellness retreats, private pools, and butler service for those who can afford it. Continued …

Foreign Arrivals Under Scrutiny as Thailand Steps Up Security

Thailand is ramping up its efforts to clamp down on foreign nationals involved in criminal activities, with newly announced measures that could see tougher checks for international arrivals. National Police Chief Kittharath Punpetch, has directed immigration police to enhance the screening process for incoming foreigners.

This initiative aims to address prostitution rings and other transnational crimes that have been linked to foreign nationals operating within Thailand. A cornerstone of this new approach is the implementation of pre-entry screening protocols, including the introduction of a digital arrival card. Continued …

Thailand ponders reviving outbound travel tax

The Revenue Department is studying the feasibility of reviving an outbound travel tax on Thai nationals. Officials are researching practices in other countries, especially developed nations, that have similar taxes in place, said Pinsai Suraswadi, director-general of the department.

Thailand has imposed a departure tax on all travelers, Thai and foreign, since 2007. Currently 700 baht, it is automatically included in the price of international air tickets. The outbound travel tax, if adopted, would be collected separately. Continued …

TAT aims for record arrivals from Oceania

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is placing a greater emphasis on high potential short-haul markets to diversify risk away from the sluggish Chinese market, with the aim of reaching a new high of 950,000 tourist arrivals from the Oceania market, which includes the Australian market.

The agency is also monitoring challenges relating to Australia’s sluggish economic growth, which could impact the spending of Australian tourists visiting Thailand. Continued …

Nightmare in Phuket: British Family’s Pricey Villa Scam

A British family’s dream holiday in Phuket descended into chaos when their £4,000 (176,000 baht) villa booking turned out to be a scam, leaving them stranded and scrambling for shelter. The Loaders, who had planned to spend Christmas in Thailand with their children and grandchildren, found themselves without a place to stay after a grueling 30-hour journey.

Judy and Richard Loader arrived in high spirits, eager to enjoy a festive break. However, their excitement quickly turned to distress when they discovered the villa they booked through Booking.com did not exist. Continued …

Phuket boosts tourism with 7 new developments

Phuket’s booming tourism industry is set for a fresh injection of new developments, as four hotels and three condominiums received approval from the Expert Committee on Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) during a recent meeting.

Among the greenlit developments are the Madeit Hotel, DoubleTree by Hilton Phuket Banthai Resort, Holiday Inn Express Phuket Nai Yang, and SALA Phuket Mai Khao Beach Resort. Continued …

New regulation updates fees for Thai historical sites and museums

Visitors to Thailand’s national museums and registered historical sites should prepare to pay updated entry fees following a new ministerial regulation announced today.

Published in the Royal Thai Government Gazette, the regulation immediately revises the charges for entry to these cultural landmarks, aiming to modernize fees that had remained unchanged since 2008. Continued …

Top Thai wind power firm plans Bt65-billion expansion

Thailand’s largest wind power producer plans to spend 65 billion baht to almost triple generating capacity over the next 12 years, and will go public to fund the expansion.

Wind Energy Holding Co. is targeting 2,000 megawatts of domestic installed capacity by 2037, from the current 700 megawatts, Chief Executive Officer Nuttpasint Chet-Udomlap said. It is also exploring projects in the Philippines, he said. Continued …

Community-based forest restoration, sowing the seeds for a sustainable future

Southeast Asia is home to some of the world’s largest and most biodiverse tropical rainforests, including those found in Thailand. These ecosystems play a vital role in regulating the global climate, supporting thousands of plant and animal species, and providing essential resources for millions of Thais.

Indigenous and rural communities across the country rely heavily on these forests for food, water, cultural identity, and sustainable livelihoods. However, these critical landscapes are increasingly under threat due to deforestation, illegal logging, mining, and agricultural expansion. Continued …

Levanta to power condom maker Karex’s Thai factory with solar

Levanta Renewables, a portfolio company of UK investment firm Actis, has signed a long-term deal to deliver solar power for the Thailand-based factory of Malaysian condom manufacturer Karex.

The companies have signed a power purchase agreement (PPA) that will facilitate the construction of a 2.2-MWp solar array atop the production base in Hat Yai city, Levanta said yesterday. Continued …

  • Bulgarian National Arrested for Planting Malware in ATMs – Continued …
  • Chinese National Arrested in Pattaya Over Money-Laundering Scam – Continued …
  • Brit caught trying to smuggle cannabis from Thailand – Continued …

ASEAN leaders agree to admit Timor-Leste

Leaders from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have agreed to admit Timor-Leste as its 11th ASEAN member at the next Asean summit in October, according to a senior Thai diplomat. Continued … 

Musk to exit US government role after rare break with Trump

Billionaire Elon Musk yesterday announced he was leaving his role in U.S. government, intended to reduce federal spending, shortly after his first major break with President Donald Trump over his signature spending bill. Continued …

New Schedule: Bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok

The first-class bus service between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin offers two round trips daily. The fare is 200 baht each way and takes three-and-a-half hours. The Hua Hin departure is from the current Transport Co. terminal just north of Hua Hin Airport.

(We recommend checking with the bus company about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)

Starting May 1, the Don Mueang-Hua Hin route will offer four round trips per day. The two outbound trips from Don Mueang Airport will depart at 8 am and 3 pm. The bus will stop at eight locations, including the Service Hall at Don Mueang, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal in Bangkok, Mahachai, Phetchaburi Big C, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, and the Hua Hin Bus Station.

For the return trips from Hua Hin, buses will depart at  9 am and 3:30 pm, stopping at seven locations, including the Hua Hin Bus Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Mahachai, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal, and Don Mueang Airport.

Online Booking and Customer Service: Facebook Page: BorKorSor; LINE ID: @TCL99; Website: TCL99 Transport.

Bus Tickets 

New Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):

(We recommend checking with the airline about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)

Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 12:10 pm

Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 10:20 am

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
      • State Railway – 1590
exports, healthcare, hua hin, immigration, pattaya, phuket, prauchuap khiri khan, solar, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thailand, thailand festivals, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s news-May 1

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Jazz Festival starts today/PKK residents voice concerns/PKK water-management/Hua Hin election/Centara World Masters Golf/Inspection on Chomsin 13 Road/Thailand Cuts Electricity Bills/New Immigration Department Proposed/71 Updated Bus Routes/Anthrax Death Reported/When Labour Day isn’t a holiday/Thailand’s middle-aged workforce/Foreigners behaving badly/ECONOMY: Central Bank Slashes Rates/PM outlines economic plans/Moody’s downgrade sends signal/Chamber views downgrade as warning/Production index slips/Investment Applications Surge/Cross-border trade rises/TOURISM: Thailand Vows to End Dual Pricing/Crackdown on Beach Nudity/Chinese tourists killed by a truck/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Four things not to do/How to hack Thailand’s May holidays/Thailand’s Lesser-Known Wonders/Food Places on Banthat Thong Road/Fine-dining experiences in Bangkok/CLIMATE THAILAND: Thailand’s clean energy path/Solar Energy in Asia/Asia’s energy security at risk/INTERNATIONAL/LINKS: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Hua Hin Expat News has a documentary filmmaker who would like to do a film on Vietnam vet stories – vets who live in Hua Hin or even Thailand. Are you a Vietnam veteran? Do you have an interesting story to tell? Here is an example of what this filmmaker has already done on the subject. He wants to expand on the topic. Let us know if you are interested at aim@hhexpatnews.com. Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NoUhjwVd0tw

Hua Hin International Jazz Festival starts today

Continued …

 

PKK residents voice concerns to Senate meeting

Continued …

PKK water-management concerns discussed

Continued …

 

Hua Hin election to be held May 11

Continued …

Centara World Masters Golf Championship marks 10th year this June

Asia’s celebrated amateur golf tournament, the Centara World Masters Golf Championship, marks a significant milestone in June as it marks its 10th year. This landmark anniversary will be celebrated through the tournament slated for June 14-18 in Hua Hin.

This year, more than 450 golfers will tee it up at Black Mountain, Pineapple Valley, and Springfield, reaffirming Hua Hin’s status as one of Asia’s premier golf destinations. Throughout the past decade, the Centara World Masters has become a global gathering for passionate golfers, drawing over 3,700 players from 25 countries. Continued …

Inspection Conducted on Chomsin 13 Road Project

Officials conducted an on-site inspection of the reinforced concrete road construction project in Soi Chomsin 13, aimed at improving local infrastructure and drainage systems in the area.

The project involves the construction of a reinforced concrete road with an integrated drainage system in Soi Chomsin 13, near Ang Nam Soi 7. The new roadway is designed to be approximately 2.56 to 3.30 meters wide, 212.78 meters long, and 0.15 meters thick. The initiative is intended to enhance road durability and water management in the neighborhood. Continued …

Thailand Cuts Summer Electricity Bills

From yesterday, millions will see a drop in their electricity costs thanks to a new rate change by the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC). The fuel tariff (Ft) rate is set to decrease from 4.15 baht to 3.99 baht per unit, impacting the upcoming May to August billing cycle.

This announcement aligns with government efforts to alleviate financial pressures on households and businesses. The key objective is to ease living costs and mitigate energy expenses for consumers. Continued … 

New Immigration Department Proposed to Streamline Border Services

Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has championed a proposal for a specialized department dedicated to immigration matters. This move, revealed yesterday, aims to tackle the increasing complexity of cross-border activities involving Thai nationals and foreign visitors.

Anutin presented his comprehensive plan to the Immigration Commission’s chairman, highlighting the need for a focused subcommittee to evaluate this scheme. Central to Anutin’s proposal is the Interior Ministry’s fundamental role in national security, public welfare, and safeguarding legal rights. The creation of an immigration department would streamline crucial services such as residency permits, work authorizations, citizenship applications, and civil registration. Continued …

Thai Transport Boosts Travel with 71 Updated Bus Routes

The Transport Co. has announced an update to its bus schedule, introducing 71 refreshed routes across Thailand and into neighboring countries. This move aims to meet the travel demands of the public during the current rainy season, while maintaining a focus on passenger comfort and safety.

Acting Managing Director Chatchawal Pornamorntham stated that the updated timetable has been implemented to align with passenger needs and facilitate travel throughout the wetter months. Continued …

Anthrax Death Reported in Mukdahan Province

Authorities have confirmed the death of a resident from anthrax in the Don Tan district of Mukdahan province. The case has prompted swift action from local officials to contain the outbreak and prevent further infections.

According to reports, the deceased had reportedly come into contact with cattle and consumed beef prior to falling ill. The individual, whose name has not been released, developed a fever and skin lesions and was admitted to Don Tan Hospital on April 27. He was later transferred to Mukdahan Hospital, where he passed away. Medical tests have confirmed anthrax infection as the cause of death. Continued …

Why Labor Day isn’t a holiday for Thai government workers

As Thailand observes Labor Day today, the occasion serves as a reflection on workers’ rights, fair pay, and the ongoing challenges of labor equity.

While the day holds national significance, it is not classified as an official public holiday for government offices, which continue normal operations. This is because, under the Labor Relations Act of 1975, civil servants are not legally considered “laborers” and therefore are not entitled to a day off on Labor Day. Government agencies remain open and public servants are expected to work as usual. Continued … 

Fired and forgotten: The hidden crisis facing Thailand’s middle-aged workforce

Like many of her former co-workers, Nuch has little to celebrate this Labor Day. Laid off recently at the age of 46, she is now struggling to find a new job to make ends meet.

“I was suddenly made redundant … it was devastating,” said Nuch, who declined to give her full name. She joined an electronics company nearly 25 years ago and had risen up the corporate ladder to become a supervisor. Continued …

  • Chinese Tourist’s Drunken Stunt Sparks Online Outrage – Continued …
  • Phuket Police Swiftly Capture Israeli Motorcycle Thief – Continued …
  • Ukrainian Renter Wrecks Thai Condo, Then Vanishes – Continued …

Thai Central Bank Slashes Rates, Cuts Growth Forecasts Amid Tariff Fears

The Bank of Thailand’s Monetary Policy Committee has opted for a 25-basis point slash in the policy rate, bringing it to 1.75%. This decision is in line with the need to navigate a gloomy economic forecast and adapt to mounting global economic risks. Central to this move is the alignment of financial conditions with shifting economic and inflationary expectations.

Thailand’s economic prospects are dimming, hit by thorny global trade interactions and a tardy inflow of international tourists. The nation faces a subdued inflation rate poised to slip below the intended target, largely driven by supply-side anomalies, while financial conditions remain stringent. Continued …

PM outlines economic plans after Moody’s cuts Thailand outlook

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra delivered yesterday a keynote address titled “Mission Thailand: Reviving the Economy.” During her speech, she commented on Moody’s Investors Service’s recent decision to revise Thailand’s credit outlook from “stable” to “negative,” clarifying that this move does not constitute a downgrade in rating but rather reflects the agency’s assessment of reduced economic growth potential.

“This is not a rating or scoring downgrade,” the prime minister said. “It is Moody’s perspective that Thailand’s growth potential has weakened. A ‘negative’ outlook does not mean the country has lost credibility. One key factor in Moody’s assessment is the global trend of rising tariffs, particularly those imposed by the United States, which have impacted many countries and caused similar outlook downgrades.” Continued …

Moody’s downgrade sends a signal

Thailand must accelerate its economic growth potential to 3%-4% to avoid a downgrade in its sovereign credit rating, say analysts. Kobsak Pootrakool, director and senior executive vice-president at Bangkok Bank, said yesterday Moody’s Investors Service revised Thailand’s outlook from stable to negative, the first step in a potential credit-rating adjustment and possibly leading to a future downgrade.

Moody’s is the first global credit ratings agency to revise its outlook on Thailand, potentially prompting the other two major agencies – S&P Global Ratings and Fitch Ratings – to review and possibly adjust their assessments as well, he said. Continued …

Chamber views downgrade as a warning

The Thai Chamber of Commerce sees Moody’s downgrade of Thailand’s credit outlook as a critical policy warning. The move highlights the urgent need for the country to adopt prudent, transparent, and objective-driven management practices to ensure sustainable development, said Poj Aramwattananont, chairman of the chamber.

He expressed concern following Moody’s Investors Service downgrading Thailand’s credit outlook from stable to negative on Tuesday. Although the credit rating was not reduced, the shift reflects significant global concern regarding Thailand’s economic and fiscal stability in the near term, said Poj. Continued …

Production index slips on downbeat trade projection

Unpleasant trade prospects threaten to affect the Thai manufacturing sector, with the Manufacturing Production Index (MPI) dipping by 0.6% year-on-year in March to 105.03 points, says the Office of Industrial Economics (OIE). The index increased by 9.2% from February, attributed to state economic measures and exports.

Future global economic uncertainty cannot be avoided, given U.S. President Donald Trump’s reciprocal tariff policy, said Passakorn Chairat, director-general of the OIE. Washington proposed a 36% levy on imports from Thailand on April 9, but paused enforcement for a period of 90 days to allow some countries to negotiate. Continued …

Thailand’s Investment Applications Surge to $12.9 Billion in First Quarter

Thailand’s Board of Investment (BOI) reported a significant surge in investment applications during the first quarter of 2025. The total value of these applications almost doubled, reaching 431.2 billion baht (USD 12.9 billion), marking a 97% increase compared to the same period last year. This growth was primarily fueled by large infrastructure projects and a fivefold increase in applications within the digital sector.

Domestic and foreign investors filed a total of 822 project applications during the January-March period, a 20% increase from the first quarter of 2024. As many as 618 of those applications involved foreign investors. Continued …

Value of Thailand’s cross-border trade rises 7.8%

Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan said yesterday the value of cross-border trade, including trade conducted along the borders, rose by 7.8% during the first six months of the current government’s tenure. Pichai made the statement while accompanying Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to a meeting on the cross-border trade situation at the Nakhon Phanom Customs Office.

During the meeting, the prime minister and Commerce minister were briefed on progress related to the border trade development center, the advancement of special economic zones, and the development of trade routes linking Thailand with neighboring countries. Continued …

Thailand Vows to End Dual Pricing Amid Growing Tourist Backlash

Thailand’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports has committed to tackling notorious dual -ricing practices following widespread complaints from foreign tourists. Minister Sorawong Thienthong vowed to eliminate unfair pricing schemes after a meeting with tourism industry leaders and assorted agencies yesterday.

The ministry’s heightened response stemmed from a viral social media article entitled “Where Have Foreign Tourists Gone?” published last April, which showcased concerns from foreigners and expats. Complaints pointed at various issues, including tourists’ safety fears, widespread overcharging, and ongoing intimidation by transnational crime groups in popular tourist hotspots. Continued …

Koh Phangan Cracks Down on Beach Nudity, Warns Tourists of Visa Revocation

Koh Phangan, home of Thailand’s infamous full moon parties, is back in the spotlight with a new crackdown on public nudity. Signs forbidding unclothed escapades have sprung up on local beaches after numerous complaints about tourists stripping down.

These placards prominently warn of the island’s nudity ban, threatening violators with the prospect of having their visas revoked. Authorities, doubling down on preserving public decency, distributed leaflets to both tourists and local businesses, emphasizing the consequences of breaking these particular rules. Continued …

Chinese tourists in car at traffic lights hit by a truck, 3 dead

Three Chinese tourists were killed instantly in a horrific road traffic accident in the early hours yesterday in Rayong. The trio, all aged 28–49, were passengers of a white sedan that was driving carefully and had previously stopped at a red light. However, the car was hit at speed by a trailer truck that mangled the car.

Afterward, the driver of the car, 38-year-old Wong Wong, was left alive. He was whisked to Klaeng Hospital where he is presently fighting for his life. The driver of the lorry, Suphap Namnon, absconded and is being pursued by police. Continued …

Four things not to do in Thailand

Thailand has been marketed around the world as a place where couples and families can relax on golden beaches, explore lush jungle, and meet exotic animals on the way. Tourists return brandishing smartphone snaps of elephant rides, visits to a tiger temple, and close-up encounters with curious monkeys and colorful sea life.

What the advertising videos do not show is that the booming tourist trade has had a serious impact on the welfare of Thailand’s wildlife. Here are four activities animal conservationists advise against when traveling in Thailand: Continued …

How to hack Thailand’s May holidays for a 10-day break

Get ready to pack your bags — May is shaping up to be a jackpot month for long holidays, and if you play your cards right, you could be lounging for 10 days straight.

Hot on the heels of April’s Songkran break, May brings another wave of public holidays that offer golden opportunities for extended rest, road trips or relaxing staycations. Whether you’re a government worker or in the private sector, this is your chance to maximize your time off without burning through your entire leave balance. Continued …

Thailand’s Lesser-Known Wonders Pai, Trang, Lopburi, Koh Yao Noi, And Sukhothai Are Waiting

If you’re a true travel enthusiast, Thailand should undoubtedly be on your list – or at least on your radar. Whether you’re drawn to the stunning beaches of Phuket or the lively energy of Bangkok, Thailand offers the perfect blend of tranquility and adventure.

It’s easy to see why people flock to iconic destinations like Bangkok, Phuket, and Pattaya. However, beyond the well-known hotspots, Thailand boasts several lesser-known gems that deserve your attention. If you’re tired of the usual tourist crowds and crave something different, here are five underrated destinations in Thailand that should definitely be on your travel bucket list. Continued …

Top 5 Food Places to Try on Banthat Thong Road, Bangkok

Banthat Thong Road, once known for its clothing shops and car accessories, has recently transformed into Bangkok’s hottest street food destination. Drawing comparisons to Yaowarat (Chinatown) for its vibrant food scene, this trendy neighborhood is now a must-visit for food lovers, offering a diverse array of delicious treats.

After the pandemic, the area experienced a revitalization, becoming a food hub thanks to a collaboration between the Chulalongkorn University Property Management Office and local vendors. Today, tourists and locals alike flock to Banthat Thong to enjoy authentic Thai, Chinese, and Japanese dishes. Here are the top five food spots that perfectly capture the essence of this thriving street food paradise. Continued …

Discover innovative and creative fine-dining experiences in Bangkok

In addition to authentic cuisine, Bangkok is also a city full of creativity, where both Thai and international chefs combine their personal experiences with traditional cooking techniques to create a menu called innovative cuisine, which involves experimenting with new ingredients, unfamiliar seasonings, and creative plating to create a unique dining experience.

For example, using molecular cooking techniques, using liquid nitrogen, cooking food with low heat, or even presenting food in a way that is different from the original format, making each dish a living and meaningful work of art. Continued …

Sun, wind, and strategy: Thailand’s clean energy path

Amid the global climate crisis and growing pressure from international environmental agreements, many countries are accelerating their transition to clean energy in earnest. This shift is not only aimed at reducing environmental impact, but also serves as a key strategy to enhance economic competitiveness.

In 2024, global electricity demand increased by over 1,050 terawatt-hours (TWh), with the Asia-Pacific region accounting for more than 76% of the growth, most of it from clean energy sources, led by solar and wind power. Continued …

Solar Energy in Asia: Bright Prospects and Growing Challenges

The solar energy sector in Asia is rapidly expanding, driven by rising demand for sustainable energy, strong government support, and technological innovations.

This growth is particularly evident in countries like China and India, where large-scale solar projects are being implemented to meet increasing energy needs and reduce carbon emissions. Moreover, advancements in solar panel efficiency and energy storage solutions are making solar power more viable and cost-effective. Continued …

Asia’s energy security at risk as tariff wars spur LNG dependence

As Asian countries scramble to balance trade deficits with the United States through long-term liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports, experts warn that such deals may deepen energy insecurity and derail clean energy goals across the region.

“Signing long-term commitments to buy U.S. LNG would be a costly mistake,” Sam Reynolds, research lead at the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA), said yesterday. “U.S. LNG prices are already uncompetitive and growing more expensive due to rising liquefaction fees and market volatility. These deals would offer negligible benefits to trade balances and expose emerging markets to long-term energy risks.” Continued …

US economy shrinks in first quarter as tariffs unleash flood of imports

The U.S. economy contracted for the first time in three years in the first quarter, swamped by a flood of imports as businesses raced to avoid higher costs from tariffs and underscoring the disruptive nature of President Donald Trump’s often chaotic trade policy. Continued …

Trump’s Tariffs Loom Over the Economy As Shipments from China Fall

American businesses are canceling orders from China, postponing expansion plans, and hunkering down to see what trade policy surprises President Donald Trump plans to spring on them next. The president’s massive and unpredictable taxes on imports seem likely to mean emptier shelves and higher prices for American shoppers, perhaps within weeks. Continued …

Oil prices set for biggest monthly drop since 2021

Oil prices are headed for their largest monthly decline since November 2021 on signs that the U.S.-led trade war is hurting economic growth and energy demand at a time when the OPEC+ alliance has been loosening supply curbs. Continued …

Euro zone growth figure tops forecasts

The euro zone economy expanded more than expected in the first quarter of this year, official data showed yesterday, despite U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariffs, but global trade tensions threaten more pain and near-stagnation for the rest of the year. Continued …

India-Pakistan nuclear war would hit globe

India and Pakistan have had several shooting matches since they carried out a total of nine underground nuclear weapons tests in 1998. However, they don’t make Putin-style thinly veiled threats to use their nukes (around 170 nuclear warheads each at the moment), and they do understand that escalation from smaller, “conventional” wars is the real danger. Continued …

New Schedule: Bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok

The first-class bus service between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin offers two round trips daily. The fare is 200 baht each way and takes three-and-a-half hours. The Hua Hin departure is from the current Transport Co. terminal just north of Hua Hin Airport.

(We recommend checking with the bus company about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)

Starting May 1, the Don Mueang-Hua Hin route will offer four round trips per day. The two outbound trips from Don Mueang Airport will depart at 8 am and 3 pm. The bus will stop at eight locations, including the Service Hall at Don Mueang, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal in Bangkok, Mahachai, Phetchaburi Big C, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, and the Hua Hin Bus Station.

For the return trips from Hua Hin, buses will depart at  9 am and 3:30 pm, stopping at seven locations, including the Hua Hin Bus Station, Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, Cha Am PTT Petrol Station, Phetchaburi Bus Station, Mahachai, Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal, and Don Mueang Airport.

Online Booking and Customer Service: Facebook Page: BorKorSor; LINE ID: @TCL99; Website: TCL99 Transport.

Bus Tickets 

New Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):

(We recommend checking with the airline about this schedule, as it changes without notice.)

Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 12:10 pm

Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 10:20 am

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
  • State Railway – 1590
bangkok, chiang mai, hospitality, hua hin, pattaya, prauchuap khiri khan, real estate, thai economy, thai food, thailand, thailand festivals, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s news-March 20

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Our newest sponsor – Hua Hin Visa Services/Dusit Thani’s Hua Hin branded residence/Expressway inbound lane to reopen/Steps to curb accidents on Rama II/Alcohol Advertising Legalized/Mountain B pub owner sentenced/Foreigners behaving badly/ECONOMY: Waiting to hit an iceberg/Economy faces stormy skies/Digital economy GDP to rise/Entertainment complex a game changer/Inflation still within target/Foreign investors rises by 68%/Chinese Investment in Thailand/Rail ties with Laos, China/New business registrations dip/TOURISM: Bangkok’s Water Festival/Chiang Mai for Songkran 2025/Thai Airways offers 30% Songkran discounts/Tourist boat evacuates 35/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: World leader in edible insects/Motorcycle routes in Thailand/10 best 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

We are pleased to welcome of newest sponsor

Hua Hin Visa Services

Dusit Thani to develop Bt2-billion Hua Hin branded residence

Hospitality firm Dusit Thani is leveraging 114 rai of land in Hua Hin, home to Dusit Thani Hua Hin hotel, to develop a branded residence with 96 units worth 2 billion baht, offered under a 60-year leasehold agreement.

Suphajee Suthumpun, group chief executive, said the plot spans both beachfront and Phetkasem Road, with development of the branded residence on 20 rai facing the road. Continued …

Inbound expressway toll plaza near collapse site reopens

The Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT) reopened the inbound Dao Khanong toll plaza for the Chalerm Maha Nakhon expressway this morning after nearby debris from last Saturday’s expressway bridge collapse was removed.

All debris blocking road access to the toll plaza in Chom Thong district of Bangkok was removed, the tarmac surface repaired and lane markings painted in time for the 6am opening. Continued …

Engineers suggest steps to curb accidents on Rama II

The Thailand Structural Engineers Assn. (TSEA) has proposed measures to address repeated accidents occurring on Rama II Road and other large-scale projects.

The suggested steps include urgent reviews of ongoing projects, particularly those near public roads, as well as legal measures to enhance safety and oversight. Continued …

Thailand Legalizes Alcohol Advertising

Thailand’s House of Representatives has voted overwhelmingly in favor of a new Alcohol Control Act, which paves the way for the advertising of alcoholic beverages such as beer and spirits.

At the parliamentary session, chaired by the eputy Speaker of the House, Pichet Chuamuangphan, members reviewed the draft legislation, which includes 38 articles. This was achieved during the second and third readings after extensive debate. Continued …

Mountain B pub owner sentenced to 5 years for deadly fire

The owner of the renowned Mountain B nightclub faces five years’ imprisonment following the fire in 2022 that claimed 26 lives and injured multiple partygoers and workers.

The Mountain B fire took place on Aug. 5 of that year. The blaze reportedly began on the ceiling above the stage during a live music performance and spread rapidly due to the presence of flammable acoustic foam. Continued …

Massive Pot smuggling racket – Foreign tourists paid and sent to Thailand on holidays

Thailand has become a global center for cannabis smuggling to Europe and Britain. Policeyesterday revealed another series of arrests concerning foreigners smuggling cannabis through Chiang Mai International Airport.

The five suspects — three British men and two American women — were apprehended on Monday. In short, the couriers, who were hired by drug cartels, were smuggling cannabis bought in Thailand for Bt1.2 million but which was worth a minimum of £1.2 million on the streets of the United Kingdom. Continued …

  • British Cannabis Smuggler Caught in Major Thai Airport Bust – Continued …
  • Belgian MMA Fighter Battles Group of Indians in Pattaya Brawl – Continued …
  • Chinese National Arrested for Illegal Luxury Car Rentals – Continued …
  • Chinese Man Arrested at Chiang Mai Airport for Stealing from Tourists – Continued …
  • Two Vietnamese Men Arrested in Chiang Rai for Fake Visa Stamps – Continued …

The economy is waiting to hit an iceberg

On the evening of April 14 1912, a small Canadian fishing boat, skippered by a French-Canadian captain called “Jacques-Chai”, approached the Titanic wanting to convey a very important message to Captain Edward Smith. The message was that there was a sea of icebergs, one was particularly big, about 200 miles ahead.

The big one was big enough to sink the Titanic. He strongly advised the captain to change course to avoid a potential disaster. Captain Smith ignored the warning from the strangely named French-Canadian and kept the Titanic on course. Continued …

Thai economy faces stormy skies

The Bank of Thailand (BoT) is sounding the alarm over slipping asset quality among wealthier borrowers, echoing a worrying trend seen in middle- and low-income groups as the Thai economy slows to a crawl.

Minutes from the recent Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting reveal mounting concerns about loan quality deteriorating across the board. This could lead banks to become even more cautious, particularly with mortgages and hire-purchase loans. Continued …

Digital economy GDP to rise 7.3% to Bt4.85 trillion

The GDP of Thailand’s digital economy this year is expected to increase 7.3% year-on-year to reach 4.85 trillion baht, according to the Digital Economy and Society (DES) Ministry.

The digital economy’s GDP growth rate is 2.6 times higher than the country’s overall GDP growth rate, which is projected to reach 2.8% this year, generating 19.2 trillion baht. Digital investment this year is expected to expand by 9.9%, or 2.7 times higher than the anticipated growth rate of total investment in the country. Continued …

Entertainment complex (casino) a game changer for Thailand: Finance Ministry

The proposed entertainment complex (aka, casino) will positively impact Thai tourism and the economy, Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat said yesterday.

In a roundtable session hosted by Krungthep Turakij, he explained that the Council of State had made significant improvements to the entertainment complex bill, particularly regarding venue locations and accessibility. He expects the bill to be presented to the Cabinet and the House of Representatives soon. Continued …

Thai inflation still within target despite February price hikes: Ministry

The Commerce Ministry expects inflation to remain at 1.1%-1.2% in the first quarter, after rising food, fuel and electricity costs drove Thailand’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) up 1.08% in February compared to the same period last year. The ministry has maintained its inflation target for the whole year at 0.3%-1.3%.

It said the new U.S. trade policy, to be announced on April 1, is not expected to impact Thailand’s inflation rate, but it would continue to monitor the situation closely. Continued …

Number of foreign investors in first two months rises by 68%

In the first two months of 2025, 181 foreign investors were approved to invest in Thailand, marking a 68% increase, the Business Development Department (BDD) announced yesterday.

The 181 foreign firms made a combined investment of 35.277 billion baht, an increase of 8.738 billion baht, or 33%, compared to the first two months of the previous year. Continued …

Detailed Analysis of Chinese Investment in Thailand

In 2023, Chinese firms committed over 90 billion baht (about $2.5 billion USD) to projects in Thailand between January and August, nearly tripling the previous year’s figures for that period, with the full year reaching 159.3 billion baht.

By 2024, Chinese investment surged, accounting for more than 42% of the total 981.65 billion baht in foreign investment, highlighting its growing dominance. Continued …

Government eyes improved rail ties with Laos, China

The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) plans to enhance the efficiency of its freight transport with Laos and China to stimulate trade and strengthen the kingdom’s position as a regional rail hub.

SRT Gov. Veeris Ammarapala recently held talks with the Lao National Railway Enterprise and Lao-China Railway Co. The goal of the discussions was to develop a seamless and more efficient rail freight network connecting Thailand, Laos and China, as well as to enhance logistical efficiency with Malaysia, he said. Continued …

New business registrations dip 5% in first 2 months

The registration of new businesses dropped by 5% year-on-year during the first two months as operators took a cautious approach amid uncertainties, according to the Department of Business Development (DBD).

Auramon Supthaweethum, director-general of the DBD, said during the period 16,391 new businesses registered, down 5.1% year-on-year. Registered capital totaled 41.3 billion baht, down by 9.85% year-on-year. Continued …

Bangkok’s Water Festival to Dazzle in April with 12 Venues

Come April, Bangkok is set to immerse itself in a wave of cultural festivity with the grand Water Festival 2025. From April 12-15, the city will transform into a vibrant hub of traditional Thai celebrations, drawing local and international visitors alike. This year, the festival will unfold across 12 distinct locations, each promising a unique slice of Thailand’s rich heritage under the evocative theme “Great Songkran, Great Fun.”

At the heart of the festival lies an array of activities designed to captivate and entertain. A spectacular water procession will showcase revered Buddha statues from five royal temples. Festival attendees will have the chance to pass through a consecrated holy water tunnel and partake in the cherished tradition of pouring water on Buddha images — a gesture symbolizing purification and blessings for the New Year. Continued …

Chiang Mai to host water splashing and events for Songkran 2025

Water splashing and various activities are set to take place at multiple venues in Chiang Mai province this April to celebrate this year’s Songkran festival.

The traditional Songkran celebration in Chiang Mai will feature religious activities, such as pouring water to pay respects to the elderly and building sand chedis at temples. Here’s a preview of the Songkran celebrations planned for April. Continued …

Thai Airways offers 30% Songkran discounts on selected flights

Thai Airways International is offering 30% discounts on fares for selected domestic routes to accommodate travel demand during next month’s Songkran holiday, with more than 1,500 seats available.

The discounts are being offered on the following routes: Bangkok-Chiang Mai, Bangkok-Phuket, Bangkok-Khon Kaen, Bangkok-Udon Thani and Bangkok-Ubon Ratchathani. Continued …

Pattaya tourist boat evacuates 35 passengers

A tourist boat carrying 35 Russian passengers Tuesday narrowly avoided disaster after a massive cloud of black smoke engulfed the vessel near Sak Island. Fortunately, quick-thinking by the captain and emergency services ensured a safe outcome for everyone on board.

The Marine Disaster Prevention Radio Center (Marine Rescue) in Pattaya received an urgent report at 10am Tuesday, of a fire on the two-story Pattaya Bay Cruise boat, which was around 500 meters from Sak Island, near Koh Larn. Continued …

How Thailand became a world leader in edible insects

Growing up in Thailand’s northeastern Isan region, Suwimon Chantajohn learned from her grandfather which insects were best to eat. Captivated by his stories of surviving on bugs during his military service in World War II, she spent her childhood scouring the dry fields for crickets, bamboo worms, and scarab beetles hiding in the grass, under bark, or beneath cow dung.

As an adult, she wanted to start her own business and traveled the world. While visiting a game lodge in Tanzania, a German guest screamed when Chantajohn brushed a bug off her arm. The moment sparked an idea. Back in Thailand, she launched Siam Bugs, a cricket farming business. Continued …

5 stunning motorcycle routes in Thailand to take

Thailand is a paradise for motorcyclists, offering some of the most stunning and diverse routes in Southeast Asia. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or someone looking for a new adventure, these are some suggested routes that any rider should take once in their lives.

For anyone new to riding a motorcycle cross country, there are no set times and ways to get past these routes and it is entirely up to you on how you want to travel (or how certain groups of people suggest you should go about it). Continued …

Eat your way through the 10 best restaurants in Bangkok

Not yet acquainted with the effervescent city that is Bangkok? The Thai capital is a hive of activity at all hours, and delightfully devoted to all things food.

From fine-dining destinations to old-school stalls tucked into dark alleys, we’ve scoped out the standouts – these are the 10 best places to eat in Bangkok. Continued …

New bus service between Hua Hin, Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok

The new first-class bus service between Don Mueang Airport and Hua Hin will offer two round trips daily. The fare would be 200 baht each way and would take three-and-a-half hours. The Hua Hin departure will be from the current Transport Co. terminal just north of Hua Hin Airport.

  • The bus will leave Hua Hin at 7 am and 2 pm
  • It will depart from Don Mueang at 7:30 am and 4 pm
  • Online Booking and Customer Service: Facebook Page: BorKorSor; LINE ID: @TCL99; Website: TCL99 Transport.

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule from Oct 27

Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):

Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 5:15pm, Arrival at 6:30pm

Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 3:25pm, arrival at 4:45pm

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
  • State Railway – 1590
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Tuesday’s news-Jan 7

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Swedish consulate suspends operations/Prachaup Khiri Khan campaign launched/Legend Fighting Championships Sunday/Teen Cuts Off Stepfather’s Arm/Holiday death toll hits 436/Your Heart’s Early Warning System/Cook pork properly/Thailand Post to Hike Fees/Air pollution to worsen/Bangkok’s PM2.5 Battle/Bangkok Climbs in Global Cities Index/A nest egg with ostriches/Foreigner films dishwashing in Thai canal/Food shop affirms good hygiene/ECONOMY: Inflation rises slightly/Plan for Economic and Investment Expansion/Wage hike impact on hotels/Thailand’s Energy Sector in 2025/Rice exports seen dropping/TOURISM: Warning signs emerge/British Tourist Dies in Motorbike Crash/Chinese family survives Pattaya yacht capsize/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Street Food in Phuket/12 best restaurants in Bangkok/CLIMATE THAILAND: Thailand’s sustainable future/How Thailand’s Farmers Can Thrive/ACE opens five solar farms/INTERNATIONAL/LINKS: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Hua Hin Swedish consulate suspends operations after death

The Swedish Consulate in Hua Hin will become vacant starting Jan. 15, following the passing of Honorary Consul Vajaravudh Sukseree. Consequently, the consulate cannot provide consular services until a new honorary consul takes office.

In response to this situation, the Embassy of Sweden advises Swedish citizens in need of consular support to contact them in Bangkok during this interim period. The embassy offers the following clarifications: Continued …

Amazing Coast Town: Prachaup Khiri Khan campaign launched

Continued …

Grand finale of Legend Fighting Championships Sunday

Continued …

Teen Cuts Off Stepfather’s Arm in Attack in Prachuap Khiri Khan

An 18-year- old boy has been arrested after attacking his mother’s ex-husband yesterday with a machete, severing his arm in a fit of rage. The incident, captured on video, occurred in the Prachuap Siri area of Prachuap Khiri Khan municipality, leaving the 54-year-old victim critically injured.

The violent altercation reportedly began as an argument outside a grocery store, where the teenager confronted the man for insulting his biological father. Witnesses described seeing the young man wielding a machete, striking the victim’s left arm with such force that it was severed and fell onto the road. Despite his injury, the victim attempted to fight back with one arm before collapsing in front of the shop. Continued …

Holiday death toll hits 436 in 10 ‘dangerous’ days on Thai roads

A total of 436 people died and a further 2,376 were injured in 2,467 traffic accidents across Thailand from Dec. 27 to Jan. 5, the 10-day period the government considered the high-risk New Year holiday travel period.

Deputy Interior Minister Songsak Thongsri said that the number of traffic accidents and injured people was lower than in the same period last year, but fatalities rose. Continued …

Calcium Score Test: Your Heart’s Early Warning System

Coronary artery calcium (CAC) testing measures calcium deposits in the coronary artery walls using a CT scanner. It helps assess the risk of coronary artery disease, with higher calcium levels indicating an increased likelihood of arteriosclerosis, which may lead to coronary stenosis, ischemic heart disease, or myocardial infarction.

Calcium buildup in arteries results from chronic vascular inflammation and degeneration, often influenced by risk factors like age, diet, and chronic conditions. The test quantifies plaque accumulation using advanced CT imaging, revealing deposits of fats, cholesterol, and calcium that gradually narrow blood vessels, reducing blood flow and increasing the risk of heart attack. Continued …

Cook pork properly, doctor warns

People are strongly advised to avoid eating raw and undercooked pork to protect themselves from being infected with streptococcus suis, commonly known as hearing loss fever, which can be fatal. The warning follows reports of an increase in cases over the long holiday in some provinces.

Dr. Taweechai Visanuyothin, director of the Department of Disease Control’s rRegional Office 9 in Nakhon Ratchasima, said more people were found to have contracted the disease after eating raw and undercooked pork. Continued …

Thailand Post to Hike Fees Again as Costs Rise

Thailand Post, the nation’s leading postal service provider, has announced its decision to implement a second increase in postage fees in less than two years. This change, which comes amid rising operational costs, is set to affect a wide array of postal services.

Last year, for the first time in nearly two decades, Thailand Post raised its service charges. Now, facing continued financial pressures, the organization finds itself raising fees once more. These adjustments will impact a variety of services, including envelope letters, packaged letters, registered envelope letters, printed goods, postcards, and parcels. Continued …

Air pollution to worsen in the north over the rest of this week

Air pollution in and around Bangkok and in the north is predicted to worsen until Friday, due to poor air circulation caused by a cold air system over the northeast, according to the Air Pollution Communication Center of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment.

The Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GITSDA) reported 490 hotspots (burning) yesterday, including 171 in rice fields, 110 in forests, 44 in sugarcane plantations, 20 in corn fields, 73 in general farming areas and 72 elsewhere. Continued …

Bangkok’s Bold New Operation for PM2.5 Battle

The air pollution battle in Thailand’s capital has taken to the skies in an unprecedented operation, as aircraft release -70°C dry ice to punch through Bangkok’s pollution-trapping atmospheric layer.

Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt received a significant donation of dry ice from Bangkok Industrial Gas Co. yesterday, marking a new phase in the city’s battle against PM2.5 air pollution. The donation will support the Royal Rainmaking Department’s atmospheric ventilation operations across Bangkok. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Bangkok Climbs in Global Cities Index Ranking

Bangkok has climbed the 2024 Global Cities Index (GCI), moving up 11 places to secure 34th spot, marking the largest leap among the top 50 global cities. This leap forward is attributed to enhancements in Bangkok’s business activity, cultural scene, and information-exchange capabilities, according to consulting firm Kearney.

Chanchai Tanatkatrakul, the head of Kearney Thailand, highlighted that Bangkok’s business activity notably benefited from its improved sea freight ranking. “In an era when many cities faced shipping challenges, Bangkok’s strategic position bolstered its resilience in this sector,” he commented. Continued …

Retired nurse rakes in a nest egg with ostriches

A retired nurse from Trang’s Mueang district has traded scrubs for feathers, earning a tidy nest egg by raising ostriches and selling their eggs and chicks. Prachuap Singkerk has transformed a two-rai plot of land next to her home into an ostrich haven, where she cares for nine of the towering birds: four males and five females.

These industrious ostriches start laying eggs at around 18 months old, producing roughly 15 eggs per month, or more than 100 annually. Non-fertile eggs are sold at 200 baht each, while fertile ones fetch 300 baht. Continued …

Hygiene concerns after foreigner films dishwashing in Thai canal

Restaurants at the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market in the central province of Ratchaburi have come under criticism after a foreigner filmed staff washing dishes in a canal filled with murky, greyish water.

In the video, a Thai woman wearing a dark blue shirt can be seen washing kitchen utensils on a set of stairs leading into the canal. Two wooden boats are parked nearby. A bucket containing dishwashing liquid and a sponge is placed beside her. The foreign woman can be heard saying that the “The food was delicious.” Continued …

Damnoen Saduak food shop affirms good hygiene after video

The owner of a popular food shop at the famous Damnoen Saduak floating market in Ratchaburi insists the shop cleans its cooking utensils and dishes properly, not just washing them in a canal as seen on a Facebook video clip.

On Sunday, Chaiya Limpapanon, owner of Jeh Now food shop at the market, said the foreign tourist who took the video and raised a question about hygiene at the shop misunderstood the situation and the shop had explained it to her. Continued …

Inflation rises slightly in December, driven by food and fuel

Thailand’s headline inflation rate increased by 1.23 percentage points in December, marking the ninth consecutive month of positive inflation, according to a recent study from the Commerce Ministry released on Monday.

The report noted that average inflation for the entire year of 2024 was 0.40%, falling within the government’s target range of 0.2-0.8%. The Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO) confirmed that the Consumer Price Index reached 108.28, while core inflation, excluding fresh food and energy, increased by 0.79%. Continued …

Thailand Reveals Plan for Economic and Investment Expansion

The Thai government has announced a bold vision for 2025, aiming for economic expansion and increased foreign investment. By focusing on sectors like future industries, AI data centers, electric vehicles, precision agriculture, and food technology, public investments are projected to exceed 700 billion baht.

Enhanced incentives and streamlined regulations are designed to attract investors and enhance Thailand’s global competitiveness. Key projects include the establishment of two hyperscale AI data centers, worth 60 billion baht, and a 6.15 billion baht investment in the semiconductor supply chain in Chachoengsao. Continued …

Minimum wage hike starts to have impact on hotels

The minimum wage hike amid a labor shortage is prompting hotels in Chiang Mai to increase staff responsibility instead of hiring more permanent workers, while small hotels in Chon Buri with cheaper rooms could be affected the most by rising costs, according to hotel associations.

The cabinet approved a nationwide daily minimum wage hike from Jan. 1, ranging from 337 to 400 baht. Several tourism destinations were assigned the highest rate of 400 baht, including Chon Buri and Phuket, while the rate in Chiang Mai’s Muang district is set at 380 baht. Continued …

Significant Advancements Expected in Thailand’s Energy Sector in 2025

Thailand’s energy sector is gearing up for major developments in 2025, particularly in petroleum exploration and electricity management. The Ministry of Energy has announced plans for new petroleum exploration bids in the Andaman Sea in early 2025, leveraging technological advancements to make deep-water projects more feasible.

The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) is tackling issues related to coal procurement for the Mae Moh mine after Italian-Thai Development Public Co. (ITD) appealed, temporarily halting activities. EGAT aims to resolve the investigation within 30 days to restart operations before the coal contract’s expiration in February. Continued …

Thai rice exports seen dropping 25% in 2025

Thailand’s rice exports will likely drop by 25% in 2025 from last year, an industry group said yesterday, partly due to more shipments from India.

The kingdom expects to export about 7.5 million tons of rice in 2025, down from 10 million tons in 2024, Chookiat Ophaswongse of the Thai Rice Exporters Assn. said. Continued …

Warning signs emerge as Thai visitor arrivals fail to hit 2019 ‘normalcy’ level

Preliminary visitor arrivals stats for 2024 show that Thailand ended the year below expectations. In fact, they are fraught with early-warning danger signs about the future growth prospects of Thai tourism in a rapidly changing and highly unstable operating environment, locally, regionally and globally.

The preliminary stats show that Thailand ended 2024 with 35,545,714 arrivals. Although that is being spun as a positive result, being up 26.3% over the 28,150,016 arrivals in 2023, a closer look shows that it is still 10.7% lower than arrivals in 2019, the pre-Covid year seen as a benchmark for “normalcy.” Continued …

British Tourist Dies in Motorbike Crash in Phuket

A 28-year-old British holidaymaker has died in a motorbike crash while on holiday in Thailand. Corey Beavis, from Barry, South Wales, was killed in Phuket on Saturday.

Corey’s twin brother, Liam, paid a heartfelt tribute, describing him as his “best friend” and “number one partner in crime”. The family is now trying to raise £35,000 to repatriate Corey’s body to the UK, with over £10,000 donated by well-wishers in less than 24 hours. Continued …

Chinese family survives Pattaya yacht capsize, seeks compensation

A Chinese family of nine is seeking justice after a travel agency denied responsibility for a yacht capsize at Na Jomtien Bay in Pattaya on Jan. 3. They claim the operator violated a red flag, leading to their near-death experience and a loss of nearly 200,000 baht.

The 42-year-old Chinese man, identified only as Geng, and his eight family members urged Thai news agencies to help them seek justice after the travel agency that operated the trip denied responsibility. Continued …

Street Food in Phuket

There’s no shortage of delicious and unique street food in Phuket, and today we went exploring the Phuket Night Market in Thailand to try some interesting street foods, including eating goong ten live dancing shrimp salad. Video …

The 12 best restaurants in Bangkok

Thai cuisine is one of the tastiest and most versatile in Asia, offering a huge variety of salads, soups, curries, fried meats, seafood and delectable desserts, infused with an incredible range of spices.

The capital Bangkok is a foodie’s paradise and it offers the best in Thai dining, while food from virtually every other country in the world is never too far away. Continued …

Responsible growth to shape Thailand’s sustainable future

Thailand’s commitment to tackling the climate crisis is evident through its evolving environmental policies, including plans to become Southeast Asia’s second country, after Singapore, to introduce a carbon tax in 2025.

These efforts are crucial as the country continues to face the impacts of climate change. Earlier this year, the heat index hit a dangerous 52 degrees Celsius, and hazardous PM2.5 levels continue to affect millions of people with pollution-related health issues. These realities underscore the urgent need for climate action. Continued …

How Thailand’s Farmers Can Thrive Amid Climate Change

As world leaders gather at COP29 to discuss climate-adaptation financing, Thailand stands at a pivotal crossroads. Thailand gained global recognition for our climate commitments, such as unveiling a roadmap for net-zero emissions by 2065. But here’s the real question: are we doing enough to prepare our farmers for the harsh realities of climate change?

Agriculture contributes over 8% of Thailand’s GDP and employs nearly one-third of the population. However, the sector faces mounting challenges — not only from intensifying natural disasters like droughts and floods, but also from an aging farming population (average age over 58), which poses hurdles for labor and innovation. Continued …

Absolute Clean Energy opens five solar farms

Absolute Clean Energy (ACE), a local biomass power developer and operator, continues to increase its renewable power generation capacity after opening five new solar farms.

Using solar power technology is part of the company’s efforts to increase its supply of clean electricity while offering a net-zero solution to companies seeking ways to achieve similar targets, referring to a balance between greenhouse gas emissions and absorption. Continued …

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announces resignation

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced yesterday he intends to resign from his post but will stay until a new leader of the country’s Liberal Party is in place, effectively ending nine years of power. Continued …

China facing increase in viral pneumonia cases

China is currently facing a surge in human metapneumovirus (hMPV) infections, a respiratory virus that spreads more rapidly during winter. There is no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment for hMPV. Travelers to China during winter are advised to take precautions to protect their health. Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule from Oct 27

Thai Airasia has updated its flight schedule between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday):

Hua Hin to Chiang Mai: Departure 5:15pm, Arrival at 6:30pm

Chiang Mai to Hua Hin: Departure 3:25pm, arrival at 4:45pm

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
  • State Railway – 1590
baht, bangkok, cha am, hospitality, hua hin, immigration, phuket, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, thailand festivals, tourism, transportation

Tuesday’s news-Sept 17

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Allied Thailand Open in Hua Hin/Squid fishing festival/Flood victims to receive maximum 230,000 baht/Nong Khai flooding to end in two weeks/Flash flood hits Phayao/Phuket flooded again/Navigating ‘rain bombs’/Residents blame statue for floods/Vipers slither in flood season/Rescue dog Singto passes away/Online sexual abuse/Behind Major Crimes in Sweden/Myanmar migrant surge/Phatthalung airport plan/Lessons from ‘Moo Deng’/Economy: Damage to economy from flooding/Overcoming Thailand’s Economic Challenges/Minimum wage rising to 400 baht/Baht to continue to rise/Restaurants struggle to cope/Digital wallet scheme/Tweaking the casino plan/Upbeat on local herbs, spices/Tourism: 300-Baht Fee for Visitors/Hotels Urge Extend Visa Waivers/Malaysians flock to southern Thailand/Thailand Experience: Grocery shopping in Thailand/Bangkok’s Culinary Craze/Must-visit Rad Na restaurants/Climate Thailand: How single-use plastic rules the world/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

Wildcarder advances in Allied Thailand Open in Hua Hin

World No.184 Lanlana Tararudee of the host country advanced to the second round of the Allied Thailand Open tennis tournament with a 6-0, 6-1 victory over compatriot Thasaporn Naklo at Arena Hua Hin yesterday.

Both Lanlana and Thasaporn were awarded wildcard entries into the main draw of the WTA 250 event. Continued …

Squid fishing festival starts in Cha Am

Continued …

Flood victims to receive maximum 230,000 baht per household

The government will provide a maximum of 230,000 baht in financial aid to every household affected by floods in several provinces, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra said on Monday. This money is on top of the 40,000 to 50,000 baht compensation being paid for other cases, such as deaths, PM’s Secretary-general Prommin Lertsuridej, added.

Paetongtarn said that she would propose to the Cabinet that 3 billion baht be disbursed from the central budget for flood relief during a meeting today. Continued …

Nong Khai governor says flooding to end in two weeks

The governor of Nong Khai province said flooding in the province may end in two weeks because the level in the Mekong is now receding, and the provincial administration will organize a major cleanup once the situation eases.

Nong Khai Gov. Sompop Samitasiri was speaking to reporters as he led his deputy Charnchai Khongthan and Muang district chief Suchart Thonmanee to inspect the flooded area near Phrathat Klang Nam in the downtown area, which was the hardest hit by the Mekong overflowing. Continued …

Flash flood hits the heart of Phayao

Persistent overnight rain caused the Mae Ka Huai Khian stream to overflow in Muang district this morning, leaving many residents, young and old, stranded on upper floors and roofs.

According to local media, the stream burst its banks in Ban Huai Khian village in tambon Mae Ka of Muang district. Flood levels ranged from one to two meters, swamping many buildings and vehicles. Continued …

Phuket flooded again following heavy downpour

Several roads in Phuket are underwater today following heavy rainfall, which has caused flash floods and mudslides in mountainous areas, according to reports from the province.

In the Ban Kata community, where 13 people died and 19 others were injured in recent mudslides, it is reported that rocks were washed down the Nak Kerd mountain by torrents of water, raising concern among residents of a possible repeat of the recent tragedy. Continued …

Navigating ‘rain bombs’

‘Traveling around is hard, and I’m scared of snakes. Last year, the flood lasted only three days, but this year it’s been much longer. Every time it floods, the vegetables I plant die,” says Nathanicha Lamai, an 8-year-old second-grader, as she shares her feelings about the flooding that has submerged her home in Sukhothai, caused by the overflowing Yom River.

Nathanicha has missed several school days because her school was closed due to the flood, and the Chinese cabbage she planted with a neighbor has rotted and been washed away by the water. Continued … 

Statue removed to museum after residents blame it for Mae Sai floods

A sculpture inspired by a northern ethnic woman was moved to Chiang Rai Contemporary Art Museum (CCAM) in Mueang district last week following a spate of social media posts holding the statue responsible for the severe flooding in Mae Sai district.

The “Angel of Maesai” sculpted by Thai artist Kraiwut Donjuk, previously stood in front of the Thailand-Myanmar border checkpoint in Mae Sai district as part of efforts to improve the landscape. However, several netizens with strong beliefs in spirits and the supernatural claimed that the statue was the cause of severe flooding in the district. Continued …

Thailand’s venomous vipers slither in flood season

Thailand’s deadly snake brigade is on the slide! Home to seven venomous species, these serpentine killers are a force to be reckoned with, especially during the treacherous flood season. With venom that packs a punch, sometimes fatal, these snakes are not to be trifled with.

Venom from these slithering assassins delivers a double whammy: muscle weakness and paralysis. It starts innocently enough with drooping eyelids, fools you into thinking you’re sleepy, and then, BAM! The next thing you know, you’re struggling for breath. Continued …

Singto, veteran member of K9 Search & Rescue team passes away

“Singto,” a member of Thailand’s K9 Urban Search and Rescue team, has died of cancer after 11 years of dedicated service to the organization, said Alongkot Chukaew, deputy director of K9 USAR Thailand. Alongkot noted that Singto was a very strong dog, always ready to face any challenge, and worked with him through difficult times, such as diving in reservoirs to search for missing persons. K9 Singto was a Golden Retriever who had been battling cancer for four months and passed away on Sept. 15. (thaipbs.com)

Online sexual abuse now at severe levels in Thailand

The growing threat of sexual harassment on social media is having a severe impact on children and the young, according to Thailand’s National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC).

In its social outlook report, the NESDC said victims of such harassment are at risk of developing social, emotional and mental health problems, including anxiety and depression. Continued …

Thailand-Based Networks Behind Major Crimes in Sweden

A police report has revealed that approximately 600 criminals, many of them operating from countries like Thailand, are at the helm of substantial criminal activities in Sweden. This wide-reaching influence encompasses drug trafficking, violent crimes, fraud, and money laundering, as disclosed in a report by Ekot.

Thailand, in particular, has emerged as a significant stronghold for these criminal networks. Swedish police officer Håkan Wall underscored their considerable impact on Sweden’s criminal landscape. “They have a substantial impact on what is happening in Sweden, both when it comes to drug smuggling and violence,” Wall said. Continued …

Solving the Myanmar migrant surge

With the civil conflict in Myanmar showing no signs of abating soon, Thailand faces formidable challenges in irregular migration from the country. Without adequate and sustainable solutions, Thailand’s overall development, including its economy, society, and security, will be seriously impacted.

To address these issues, the Paetongtarn government should urgently prioritize immediate implementation and develop new mechanisms that streamline measures and procedures to improve the livelihoods of these migrants. It is a Herculean task. Continued … 

Phatthalung unveils 71-billion-baht airport plan

A plot of land spanning 1,496 rai near Songkhla Lake in Phatthalung has been earmarked for constructing a new airport, aimed at boosting tourism and transport in the southern province and its neighbors.

Anticipated to become a central hub for Phatthalung, Songkhla, and Nakhon Si Thammarat, the land in Khuan Maphrao subdistrict, Mueang district, is owned by the Department of Rice (DoR). The decision to select this site was finalized by Phatthalung’s public-private working group.. Continued …

Lessons from ‘Moo Deng’

The popularity of two-month-old pygmy hippo “Moo Deng” is not happenstance. It is the fruit of a laborious and systematic media campaign by the public relations team of Khao Kheow Open Zoo to promote their animals.

The zoo, in Chon Buri province, often provides entertainment activities, such as live music performed by local students. It also created an animal food fund to boost public engagement. Continued … 

Damage to the economy from flooding could reach 27 billion baht

The flooding in northern Thailand has been the most severe in the past 80 years and impacted the economy by as much as 27 billion baht, the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) said on Monday.

“We estimate that the floods have caused 25-27 billion baht in damage to the economy and entrepreneurs in the area,” federation Chairman Kriengkrai Thiennukul said, pointing to the devastation of agricultural areas and orchards from heavy rains in Thailand and Myanmar and the additional downpours forecast to hit the country this week. Continued …

Overcoming Thailand’s Economic Challenges

Thailand’s economy is confronted with long-term challenges such as an aging population and low productivity. These issues cannot be quickly resolved and necessitate reforms, including empowering local governments and liberalizing the energy sector.

As Thailand contends with the difficulties of 2024, it is anticipated that the nation’s economic landscape will encounter substantial long-term challenges. Continued …

Minimum wage rising to 400 baht despite employers skipping meeting

Labor Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn said the minimum daily wage is rising to 400 baht nationwide from Oct. 1 despite employers’ representatives not showing up for the tripartite wage committee meeting yesterday. He warned employers that if they still remain silent and not show up for the next meeting scheduled for Friday he would still proceed with the wage hike.

Phiphat mentioned that he had received letters from chambers of commerce in almost every province, including provincial industrial councils and the Federation of Thai Industries, stating that they were not ready to increase wages at this time. Continued …

Baht expected to continue to rise

The baht could appreciate further, after hitting a 19-month high of 32.2 baht to the dollar on Monday, if the U.S. Federal Reserve cuts interest rates deeper than 25 basis points at its meeting this week, as falling U.S. inflation could prompt the central bank to deliver an outsized rate cut.

The Thai currency rose from Friday’s close of 33.33 baht against the greenback as investors rushed to sell the dollar ahead of the central bank’s Federal Open Market Committee meeting on Wednesday, according to Kasikorn Research Center (K-Research). Continued …

Restaurants struggle to cope

Knowing one’s strengths and distinctiveness, along with being able to utilize online marketing tools, are seen in Thailand as the keys to survival for restaurant business operators in a highly competitive market.

Thanapong Vongchinsri, the owner of Penguin Eat Shabu, said buffet restaurants in the country are facing rising costs such as raw materials, rental fees, and management costs. Continued …

Less than 40 million expected to join digital wallet scheme

The government expects less than 40 million people to sign up for its flagship digital wallet handout scheme, with the first phase set to be distributed to 14.5 million vulnerable people from Sept. 25, a finance ministry official said on Monday.

The government has planned to give away 450 billion baht to 45 million people under its stimulus program, which will see 10,000 baht transferred to each person who registers to spend in their localities within six months. Continued …

Tweaking the casino plan

Members of the tourism sector welcome the government’s policy on integrated entertainment complex development in the hope it will stimulate the economy, suggesting that some laws and regulations be amended to support the cause. Some, however, doubt whether the project will be worth the impact.

Weerawit Krueasombat, president of the Patong Entertainment Business Assn. (PEBA) in Phuket, said it is a good idea to have an integrated complex that includes a casino in a major tourist city. Continued …

McCormick upbeat on local herbs, spices

Even though Thailand has a sluggish economy, the Thai herbs and spices market has proved to be resilient, according to McCormick & Co., an American spice manufacturer and distributor.

Priya Sharma, managing director of McCormick India-Southeast Asia, said the company believes that following the Covid-19 pandemic, people around the world now tend to cook more at home. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Tourism Minister Aims to Levy 300-Baht Fee for Visitors

Thailand’s newly appointed Tourism Minister, Sorawong Thienthong, is set to revive the previously shelved 300-baht tourism tax, aiming to enhance tourism revenue to at least 3 trillion baht this year.

“I believe the collection of the tourism fee benefits the tourism industry, as the revenue can be used for infrastructure development and ensuring tourist safety,” remarked Thienthong, who took office recently. Continued …

Thai hotel Association Urges Government to Extend Visa Waivers

As Thailand’s tourism continues to grow, the Thai Hotel Assn. (THA) has suggested that the government launch another round of stimulus measures focusing on labor and financial support. They also urged the government to consider extending the free visa requirement for destination markets and postponing the imposition of the “landing fee” for another two years.

A confidence survey in August showed an average occupancy rate of 62%, higher than the previous month. Sixty percent of hotels reported revenues at or above pre-COVID-19 levels. Continued …

Malaysians flock to southern Thailand, boosting economy by one billion baht

Nearly 100,000 Malaysian tourists took advantage of the long weekend in conjunction with Malaysia Day to vacation in southern Thailand – contributing more than 1 billion baht to the local economy.

The president of the Hat Yai Songkhla Hotel Assn., Sittipong Sitthipatprapha, stated that more than 36,000 Malaysian tourists entered the Songkhla province through three main entry points – namely Sadao, Ban Prakob, and Padang Besar – on Sept. 14, with traffic jams reported from as early as 5 a.m. until 11 p.m., especially in the Hat Yai area. Continued …

Grocery shopping in Thailand: must-buy ingredients and where to find them

People often say that to truly know Thailand, you must eat like the locals, not just on the streets but also by shopping for ingredients the way they do – in bustling markets, supermarkets and specialty stores.

Each shopping experience offers a unique insight into Thai culture and cuisine, particularly local wet and floating markets, which are often microcosms of the neighborhoods that they serve. Continued … 

Today’s “Guest” sponsor

Bangkok’s Culinary Craze: 5 Must-Try New Spots

Bangkok’s vibrant food scene is always sizzling. New street food spots, restaurants and rooftops are popping up across the city, each offering unique takes on Thai classics or exciting culinary adventures.

For adventurous eaters seeking new mouth-watering experiences, Bangkok is updated with delicious possibilities. This guide highlights five must-try new spots that you should not miss for your next visit to Bangkok. Continued …

Must-visit Rad Na restaurants in Bangkok

If you’re in Bangkok and craving Rad Na, you’re in luck! This tasty Thai dish features wide rice noodles in a savory gravy with meat and vegetables. Bangkok is full of great spots to enjoy this comforting and flavorful meal.

Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to Rad Na, the city’s top restaurants offer fantastic versions of this classic dish. Let’s explore some must-visit places where you can savor every bite of this Thai favorite. Continued …

‘Easy, convenient, cheap’: how single-use plastic rules the world

Negotiators hope to reach the world’s first treaty on plastic pollution this year, but across five very different countries, AFP found single-use plastic remains hugely popular as a cheap and convenient choice, illustrating the challenges ahead:

Bangkok

On a Bangkok street lined with food vendors, customers line up for Maliwan’s famed traditional sweets. Steamed layer cakes — green with pandan leaf or blue with butterfly pea — sit in clear plastic bags alongside rows of taro pudding in plastic boxes. Continued …

Myanmar flooding death toll jumps to 226

The death toll from massive flooding in Myanmar in the wake of Typhoon Yagi has doubled to 226, as the UN warned as many as 630,000 people could be in need of help. Continued …

Strongest Typhoon Since 1949 Hits Shanghai, the Financial Hub

The strongest typhoon to hit Shanghai since at least 1949 flooded roads with water and broken tree branches, knocked out power to some homes and injured at least one person as it swept over the financial hub Monday. Continued …

Meta bans RT and other Russian state media networks

Facebook owner Meta said on Monday it was banning RT, Rossiya Segodnya and other Russian state media networks from its platforms, claiming the outlets had used deceptive tactics to carry out covert influence operations online. 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, hua hin, phuket, real estate, thai economy, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand

Friday’s news-Aug 30

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Discovering the best TEFL programs/Thailand braces for heavy rain/New PM Faces Impeachment/All Three Workers Found Dead/Soil Indicators not Working/Bangkok Prepares for Rising Waters/Foreigners behaving badly/Economy: Commerce Ministry cracks down/Poor may be priority/Thailand Needs to Push Agriculture/Homebuyers’ confidence still low/Industrial park developer expects more land sales/EU deal gets thumbs up/Call to rev up nuclear/Pet hospital expanding/Thailand Experience: Surin Elephant Museum/Bangkok: Where to Eat, Unwind/Climate Thailand: Tackling air pollution/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

Discovering the best TEFL programs for teaching in Thailand

Thailand is a popular choice for English teachers, thanks to its rich culture, friendly communities, and beautiful landscapes. For those looking to start a teaching career here, selecting the right TEFL program is crucial.

The best programs in Thailand offer both comprehensive theoretical knowledge and practical classroom experience, helping teachers build confidence and develop their skills. Continued …

Thailand braces for heavy rain and potential flooding

The Thai National Water Resources Office (ONWR) issued a nationwide water situation forecast yesterday. A moderate monsoon trough is expected to affect northern, northeastern, and central Thailand from Sept. 1-3, merging with a strong low-pressure system over the central South China Sea.

The southwest monsoon will also impact the Andaman Sea, southern, and eastern regions, as well as the Gulf of Thailand, causing increased rainfall and heavy rain in some areas, particularly in the lower northeastern, central, eastern, and upper southern regions. Continued …

New PM Faces Impeachment Amid Ethics Allegations

Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra faces potential impeachment as deputy leader of the Palang Pracharath Party, Paiboon Nititawan, accuses her of dishonesty and unethical conduct. Allegations have surfaced following her failure to uphold promises regarding the formation of a sustained Pheu Thai-led government coalition.

Paiboon cited a precedent involving former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who was deemed severely unethical by the Constitutional Court for appointing a controversial minister. This ruling led to the abrupt end of Srettha’s tenure earlier this month. Paetongtarn, daughter of influential politician Thaksin Shinawatra, might similarly face impeachment due to breaking her coalition promises. Continued …

All Three Workers Found Dead in Tunnel Collapse

In a conclusion to a 126-hour rescue operation, three workers trapped inside a collapsed railway tunnel have been found dead. Rescue teams encountered numerous challenges in their efforts to recover the bodies and are now preparing to remove them from the site.

Ekarach Sriarayapong, head of the office of the governor of the State Railway of Thailand (SRT), provided an update on the situation. The incident occurred on Aug. 24, when the tunnel collapsed due to a soil subsidence, trapping three workers inside. On Aug. 29, at 11am, the first body was successfully recovered by the SRT rescue team in collaboration with the Hunan Sunshine Rescue Team from China. Continued …

Soil Indicators not Working During Phuket Landslide

The Department of Mineral Resources has confirmed soil indicators used in Phuket to detect possible landslides are not working due to a lack of budget and maintenance. The Geohazard Operation Center, part of the Department of Mineral Resources, said the soil indicator on Nark Kerd Mountain was not operational prior to the landslide incident. The reason for this was a lack of budget for maintenance.

Additionally, the soil indicator had been installed near a tree in the parking area close to the landslide’s starting point. Unfortunately, termites were found inside the indicator system, and some trees and structures obstructed its functionality. The indicator relies on solar cell power. Continued …

Bangkok Prepares for Rising Waters

Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt has ensured the city’s readiness as floodwaters approach, focusing on key flood defense projects. Accompanied by Deputy Gov. Wisanu Supsompol and officials from the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) Drainage and Sewerage Department, Chadchart recently inspected vital flood levee repairs along the Chao Phraya River in Yannawa district. Attention centered on the Rama III area, where a new water gate at Klong Ta Huang is under construction.

During the visit, Chadchart and his team assessed the ongoing work on the new gate, which aims to enhance water management. Plans also include dredging the canal to increase its water retention capacity. The delegation reviewed recent repairs to ruptured levees and the installation of water pumps in critical spots to manage overflow risks effectively. Continued …

Life Sentence for Spaniard in Koh Pha-ngan Murder Case

Continued …

 

Commerce Ministry cracks down on hidden foreign ownership

The Thailand Commerce Ministry is intensifying its scrutiny of businesses allegedly using Thai nominees to hide foreign ownership, focusing on sectors like tourism, real estate, and logistics.

Auramon Supthaweethum, director-general of the Department of Business Development, stated that under the Foreign Business Act of 1999, foreign firms must secure permission as outlined in specific lists before starting operations. Continued …

Poor may be priority for digital handout

The digital wallet handout may be distributed first to groups of people that most need it for spending to inject money into the economy toward the end of this year, says caretaker Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul.

Paopoom said the scheme requires discussion within the new cabinet. However, there could be considerations to adjust the distribution model for the project, potentially providing funds to high-need groups first through the state welfare card, he said. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Thailand Needs to Push Agriculture – Stop Being the Detroit of Asia

Dr. Supavud Saicheua, chairman of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC), gave a special interview in which he analyzed urgent issues of economic reform. He suggested promoting the agriculture and food sectors, as well as high-end services as new growth engines for the country to create jobs for Thais, thus ending the “Detroit of Asia” concept for Thailand.

He explained that it would be very difficult for Thailand to compete with China in the manufacturing industry. If even the U.S. and Europe are struggling, how could Thailand compete? Japan is also facing challenges. Continued …

Confidence still low among homebuyers

The housing purchase confidence index (HPCI) in Greater Bangkok improved slightly in the second quarter from the first quarter, thanks to property measures, but remained low because of persistent negative factors.

Vichai Viratkapan, acting director-general of the Real Estate Information Center (REIC), said the index in the second quarter was 39.6, up from 39.2 in the first quarter. Continued …

Thailand’s top industrial park developer expects more land sales

WHA Corp., Thailand’s largest industrial estate developer, expects rising demand from foreign manufacturers and companies to trigger a surge in land sales in the second half of the year.

The Bangkok-based company sees land sales jumping to 224 hectares between July and December, an increase of about 40% from the first half, Chief Financial Officer Natthapatt Tanboon-Ek said Wednesday. The largest contracts will be for two data-center projects over the next few months, he said, declining to specify the buyers. Continued …

Thai Parliament gives EU deal thumbs up

The Thai Parliament unanimously endorsed the framework agreement on the EU-Thailand Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA), set to come into force within 30 days.

In a joint session of the House of Representatives and the Senate, 612 votes supported the agreement. The PCA aims to enhance political dialogue on global issues and foster cooperation across various policy areas, including the environment, energy, climate change, transport, science and technology, trade, employment and social affairs, human rights, education, agriculture, non-proliferation, counter-terrorism, anti-corruption efforts, organized crime, migration, and culture. Continued …

Call to rev up small nuclear plant project

The government should speed up efforts to push for a small nuclear power plant project to develop an alternative power source, says former permanent energy secretary Kurujit Nakornthap.

Authorities must not let criticism or disagreement sway their determination to develop nuclear power-generation facilities, which can help Thailand cut carbon dioxide emissions, he said. Continued … 

Pet hospital notices scope for market expansion

Thonglor International Pet Hospital plans to add branches in Thailand and other ASEAN countries, as pet-related businesses are expected to continue to grow.

Kitika Chaisupattanakul, chief executive of Thonglor International Pet Hospital, said the company believes the pet care market looks promising and will continue to grow in Thailand due to the country’s aging demographics and the changing lifestyles of modern people, including growing populations of singles and childless couples known as “DINKS” (double income no kids). Continued …

Surin Elephant Museum trumpets into life next month

Surin province will unveil its majestic new treasure, the Surin Elephant Museum, on Sept. 5. This opening promises a trunk-load of fascinating insights and interactive exhibits dedicated to the grandeur of elephants.

The Surin Elephant Museum, born from a partnership between the Surin Provincial Administrative Organisation and the Dr. Thiam Chokwatana Foundation, is set to become a premier destination for both education and tourism. Continued …

Chef Napol ‘Joe’ Jantraket’s Bangkok: Where to Eat, Unwind

Chef Napol “Joe” Jantraket is one of Thailand’s rising young chefs. After spending more than 10 years in Canada, he and his partner Saki Hoshino decided to settle back in his homeland. He quickly earned one MICHELIN Star for 80/20 during its early years before opening his own restaurant, Samlor, which is recognized with a Bib Gourmand recognition in the MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2024.

His latest accomplishment is earning NAWA its first MICHELIN Star and the MICHELIN Opening of the Year award not long after it opened to the public. Continued …

How Asian countries could save lives, boost growth by tackling air pollution

For the people of East and Southeast Asia air pollution has become an all too familiar sight. More than 90% of the region’s 2.5 billion people breathe air that is considered unsafe by the World Health Organization. That dirty air – a combination of everything from tailpipe emissions to forest fire smoke – is responsible for millions of premature deaths each year.

“Air pollution is one of the greatest health threats facing this region right now,” says Dechen Tsering, regional director and representative of the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) for Asia and the Pacific. “But the good news is that it’s not an impossible problem to solve. We know how to reduce air pollution – we just need to act.” Continued …

China’s internet users near 1.1 billion, driven by short videos

China’s internet users approached 1.1 billion at the end of June, up 7.42 million from December, as a plethora of online entertainment options lured the young and old into joining the world’s largest online population, the latest government figures showed. 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 …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

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
baht, bangkok, healthcare, hua hin, immigration, solar, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, tourism, transportation

Saturday’s news-July 13

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Electric rate increase/Heavy rains forecast/Big jump in number of millionaires/Is 60 the new 40?/Thailand’s 30 baht healthcare policy/Drones to assist farmers/Thailand prepares for potential flooding/Scammer Kingpin’s Run Ends/Economy: Baht appreciation pressured/Thai banks called to task/Scant impact from digital wallet/Fourth largest producer of electronic circuits/Honda Thailand to halve auto production/Caltex service stations installing solar/Lifetime warranty for EV components/Tourism: 93 countries’ visa-free entry/Thai Cabbie Returns 500,000 Baht/Thailand expands airports/Illegal tour firms/Thailand Experience: Farmers Fight To Restore Vanishing Paddy Fields/SHA Undergrads Study Ecotourism/A paradise in peril/Chatuchak Market Guide/5 Hidden Gems In Bangkok/International news/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

Electric rate increase under consideration

The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) announced a public consultation from yesterday until July 26 to discuss the final electricity tariff adjustment of the year. The proposed adjustments could see electricity bills rise from September to December this year, with costs potentially increasing from 4.18 baht per unit to between 4.65 and 6.01 baht per unit.

The secretary-general and spokesperson of the ERC, Poonpat Leesombatpiboon, revealed that the fuel tariff (FT) might need to be adjusted upwards by 46.8 to 182.9 satang per unit, combined with the base electricity rate of 3.7 baht per unit. This adjustment would result in the electricity tariff for the end of 2024 increasing to between 4.65 and 6.01 baht per unit. Continued …

Heavy rains forecast for most of Thailand from Sunday to Thursday

Thundershowers and isolated heavy rains are likely in some areas of Thailand on Saturday due to the moderate southwest monsoon prevailing over the country, the Thai Meteorological Department said.

From Sunday to Thursday, however, most of Thailand will experience heavy to very heavy rains, as the strong monsoon trough will lie across the north and the northeast regions into an active low-pressure cell over the middle South China Sea, the department warned. Continued …

Thailand expected to see a big jump in number of millionaires in next 5 years

Thailand is expected to see a 24% increase in the number of millionaires over the next five years, propelling the country to ninth place in the world for the most increase in wealthy individuals, according to the recently released UBS Global Wealth Report 2024.

The UBS report highlights a notable rebound in global wealth growth, which reached 4.2% in 2023, offsetting the slump experienced in 2022. When adjusted for inflation, global wealth grew by an impressive 8.4% last year. Continued …

Is 60 the new 40? How population aging is taking shape in ASEAN countries

The proportion of the elderly population in ASEAN and the Plus-3 economies has seen a significant rise. It escalated from 5.1% and 8.1% in 2001 to 7.9% and 15.1% in 2022, respectively. Furthermore, countries like China, Thailand, and Vietnam are projected to shift from aging to aged societies more rapidly than advanced economies such as France and the U.S.

For instance, France and the U.S. experienced this transition over 115 and 69 years, respectively, while China is anticipated to complete it in 25 years, Singapore and Thailand in 22 years, and Vietnam in just 19 years, according to UNESCAP 2017. Continued … 

Thailand’s 30 baht healthcare policy gets public approval

Thailand’s 30-baht treatment anywhere policy has received widespread approval from the public, providing accessible health services for minor illnesses through community pharmacies in 45 provinces.

This initiative, part of the National Health Security Office (NHSO) and the Pharmacy Council’s ongoing efforts, aims to extend healthcare access to individuals under the national health insurance scheme, commonly known as the 30 Baht Gold Card. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

Drones to be used to assist farmers

Government spokesman Chai Wacharonke said on Friday that the government had launched a new project in which each tambon will be provided with one drone for use in farming. This could potentially help boost crop yields while cutting farming costs.

 

The “One Tambon One Digital” project aims to create a new digital ecosystem in Thailand’s agricultural sector and help generate more income from higher crop yields and lower production costs, said Chai. Continued …

Thailand prepares for potential flooding in lower Chao Phraya River basin

Thailand is stepping up efforts to prepare for potential flooding in the lower Chao Phraya River basin, anticipating the impacts of La Niña. The deputy prime minister is leading the initiative to bolster flood defenses and emergency response plans.

During a visit to Ayutthaya Province, Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai and key officials reviewed flood defense measures and emergency response plans. Continued …

From Malaysia to Pattaya: Scammer Kingpin’s Run Ends in Arrest

Officers from the Investigation Division of the 2nd Subdivision, Tourist Police Bureau 1, in collaboration with the Chonburi Immigration Office, arrested a Chinese man, Mr. Liu, 39, the leader of a call center scam gang, in front of a restaurant at a mall in Noen Plub Wan Alley of Pattaya City. He was arrested while getting into a luxury white BMW and charged with “being an alien in the country without permission.”

On Thursday, the officers received information that the gang leader of a call center gang, fleeing prosecution in Malaysia after raiding a fellow countryman’s place to collect money, was eventually arrested by Malaysian authorities. Subsequently, the Chinese gang leader was released on bail, before fleeing to Thailand.. Continued …

Baht appreciation pressured by significant challenges

The Thai economy’s lower potential growth, a weaker current account surplus and increased capital outflows are pressuring baht appreciation over the longer term, say economists.

Roong Sanguanruang, senior vice president for global markets planning at Bank of Ayudhya (Krungsri), said the baht faces higher limitations in terms of appreciating against the dollar because of the economy’s reduced growth potential. Thailand’s current account surplus has continued to decline, while foreign net capital outflows are rising, she said. Continued …

Thai banks called to task for funding weapon exports to Myanmar

A House panel on Thursday summoned banks and relevant agencies as part of its investigation into mule accounts used to support Myanmar’s military junta.

The committee in charge of state security, border affairs, national strategy and reform initiated the investigation in response to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR)’s report in late June, which revealed that Thai banks were providing financial services to the Myanmar military junta for weapon procurement. Continued …

Analyst sees scant impact from digital wallet

The government’s flagship digital wallet policy can improve the economy by only 0.4 percentage points, mostly in 2025, after the project’s budget was reduced by 50 billion baht to 450 billion, as uncertainties remain regarding the funding, according to an analyst.

The government subcommittee overseeing the 10,000-baht digital handout scheme decided to scale down the funding of the program to 450 billion baht as legal complications prevented it from utilizing the state-owned Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives, relying instead on the budgets for 2024 and 2025. Continued …

Thailand eyes becoming fourth largest producer of electronic circuits

Thailand is looking to increase its global electronics circuit market share to become the fourth largest producer and is setting up a national Electronics Circuit Center to meet labor demand for this industry, Thai Printed Circuit Assn. (THPCA) President Pithan Ongkosit said on Thursday.

Achieving this goal requires robust support and collaboration from both public and private sectors, he told the media at a joint press conference with the Board of Investment (BOI) and the Hong Kong PrinteAssociation (HKPCA). Continued …

Honda Thailand to halve auto production amid China competition

Japanese automaker Honda Motor has announced it will cut production capacity in Thailand by 50%, citing fierce competition from Chinese counterparts.

Honda has two car assembly plants in Thailand. The Ayutthaya plant will stop auto production by the end of next year and switch to making auto parts, media reported on Wednesday. Continued …

Caltex fuel service stations installing solar rooftop systems

Ponix, a solar cell system solution provider, has partnered with Caltex, a subsidiary of Star Fuels Marketing, the exclusive licensee of Caltex fuels in Thailand, to allocate station areas to install solar rooftops at Caltex fuel service stations in support of efficient use of renewable energy by using solar energy at service stations.

Ponix has installed solar rooftops at four Caltex fuel service stations and plans to increase to 50 stations nationwide in 2025. The installations are expected to help save electricity costs by 50% per station. Continued …

MG Thailand introduces lifetime warranty for EV components

As MG celebrates its 100th year, it is raising the bar in Thailand’s electric vehicle (EV) market by introducing a lifetime warranty on essential EV components.

In collaboration with SAIC Motor-CP, MG Thailand has introduced a lifetime warranty for the high-voltage battery, electric drive unit, and power electronic block across several of its electric models. The offer includes popular models like the MG4 electric, MG Maxus 9, and MG Maxus 7, as well as the MG Cyberster. Continued …

93 countries to get visa-free entry

Thailand will allow citizens of more countries to enter the kingdom via visa exemptions starting Monday, the Interior Ministry said on Friday. Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul signed four documents to ease travel for foreigners, all of which will take effect on Monday.

The directives include a new list of countries eligible for visa-free entry into Thailand, increasing from 57 to 93. Visitors from these countries will be able to stay for no more than 60 days. Continued …

Honest Thai Cabbie Returns 500,000 Baht to Saudi Tourist

In a display of honesty, 56-year-old Saneh Chaikam from Roi Et province, found himself at the center of a feel-good story this past Wednesday.

The taxi driver stumbled upon a black handbag left behind by a passenger earlier this week, which contained a staggering sum of money totalling 566,127 baht. Quickly realizing the urgency of the matter, Chaikam didn’t hesitate to contact the FM91 Traffic Police to orchestrate its return. Continued …

Thailand expands airports to meet tourism boom, aviation hub dreams

Fueled by a surge in tourist arrivals, Thailand’s aviation sector is experiencing a take-off of its own. Passenger traffic across the kingdom’s 39 airports is on a steady climb, prompting the government to invest heavily in expanding airport capacity.

This move, in line with the government’s “Ignite Thailand” strategy, aims to solidify Thailand’s position as a top aviation hub in Southeast Asia, attracting not just tourists but also business and investment. Continued …

Email link – kenbrown@businessclassasia.com

Illegal tour firms adopt new tactics

More than a hundred tour operators are at risk of breaking the law for using nominees or a price-dumping strategy, while new fraudulent tactics offer cheap tours disguised as direct sales or multi-level marketing companies, according to the Tourism Department.

Jaturon Phakdeewanit, director-general of the department, said the number of suspected illegal tour companies might be relatively small compared with 13,000 licensed firms nationwide, but their operations could inflict huge damage on Thai tourism, with most of the income flowing overseas instead of benefiting local businesses. Continued …

In Thailand’s Deep South, Farmers Fight To Restore Vanishing Paddy Fields

In the lush landscape of Thailand’s deep south, a quiet revolution is brewing. A network of farmers and activists is breathing new life into abandoned rice fields – and preserving local culture as they go along.

The grassroots movement is encouraging young people to return to their forgotten family fields, build granaries and harvest rice for community lunch programs. Continued …

Adventure in Thailand: SHA Undergrads Study Ecotourism

Thailand attracts millions of tourists every year, many traveling there to see Asian elephants. The country is home to 15% of the 52,000 Asian elephants currently in the world.

One problem facing this vacation destination is protecting these gentle giants, which are classified as an endangered species. Animal rights activists warn against the unethical activities tourists tend to flock to, such as riding the elephants, which can put pressure on their bodies and deteriorate the tissue and bones, causing spinal damage. Continued …

Thap Lan National Park: A paradise in peril

Thap Lan National Park is confronting the most significant crisis in its 43 years of existence. If the ongoing #SaveThaplan campaign fails to make an impact, Thap Lan will lose a massive area representing nearly one-fifth of its land.

The government plans to cut the size of Thap Lan by 265,286 rai to resolve land disputes that have plagued the area for decades. Local farmers who claim ownership of land on the park’s boundary argue they have lived there for generations – well before the national reserve was established on Dec. 23, 1981. Continued … 

Chatuchak Market Guide: Finding Treasures And Thrills At Bangkok’s Shopping Paradise

One of the largest and most diverse shopping places in Thailand, Chatuchak Market is the ideal place for shopaholics to traverse in Bangkok. From authentic Thai cooking paste, unique cosmetics, handcrafted furniture and electronic items to trendy apparel, organic fruits and even cute, furry little pets, this weekend market in Thailand with over 15,000 stalls overflows with treasures waiting to be discovered.

If you are planning a trip to the Land of Smiles, this is where you need to spend a weekend to treat your souvenir-hunting soul to some street-style flea marketesque retail therapy. Join us on this exploration of Chatuchak Market to find out where to pick up the exact thing you want. Continued …

5 Hidden Gems In Bangkok You Need To Check Out

Foodie fam, ever wondered where to get the best eats in Bangkok? If you’re on the hunt for some of Bangkok’s hidden culinary gems, then you’re in for a treat! As expats vibing in Bangkok, we recently embarked on a major food adventure to uncover some of the city’s best-kept culinary delights.

After savoring tons of delicious spots, we found five epic places that you totally gotta try! The best part? You can get all these tasty eats delivered straight to your door with GrabFood, and ordering is a breeze with its English menu! Continued …

Venice announces its tourist tax will increase in 2025

Venice’s experimental payment system for tourists only had a limited impact on reducing crowds in the lagoon city, meaning prices will almost certainly be hiked next year, a politician who led the project said on Friday. Continued …

Astronauts confident in Boeing capsule’s safe return despite past failures

Two astronauts who should have been back on Earth weeks ago said Wednesday that they’re confident that Boeing’s space capsule can return them safely, despite a string of vexing breakdowns. 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