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Friday’s news-Sept 19

September 19, 2025 Hua Hin Expat News

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Elephant charges tourist vehicle in Hua Hin/Inside Thailand’s constitutional battle/Heavy rain warnings/The real ‘Dark Side’ of Thailand/Thailand Denies BBC Documentary Interference/Thailand’s national digital health platform/ECONOMY: Baht May Strengthen Rapidly/2025 revenue shortfall/Microsoft to build 3 Thai data centers/TOURISM: Decline in visitors from Southeast Asia/Thai curry rice championship/’Marred by rampant cannabis use’/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Thailand’s 6 top souvenir snacks/CLIMATE THAILAND: Green industrial policy race in Asia/Stopping Plastic Waste before It Hits the Ocean/Thailand’s Iconic Tuk-Tuks Evolve/EVs for Thai bank fleet/FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN LINKS

Heart-stopping encounter as wild elephant charges tourist vehicle in La-U Forest, Hua Hin

Panic erupted on the Nong Phlap–Huai Sat Yai road in Hua Hin when a wild elephant with long tusks charged at a family’s vehicle en route to La-U Waterfall. Quick action by a park ranger, who reversed his truck to block the elephant , prevented serious injury. Both vehicles were slightly damaged, but fortunately, no one was hurt.

The incident showed the elephant approaching a family car, while another vehicle, believed to be a ranger’s, moved to intercept. Amid the chaos, the two vehicles collided lightly before the elephant was guided back into the forest. Continued …

Elites vs the people: Inside Thailand’s constitutional battle

The push for a new, people-driven constitution is facing formidable opposition from entrenched conservative elites who are desperate to preserve their traditional political dominance in Thailand, analysts warn.

Conservatives are striving to keep the current charter unchanged while blocking any efforts to reform traditional power structures, they add. Continued …

Heavy rain warnings issued as monsoon strengthens

The Thai Meteorological Department reported today that the monsoon trough extends across the central region, the east, and the lower northeast, connecting with an active low-pressure cell over the South China Sea. Meanwhile, the moderate southwest monsoon prevailing over the Andaman Sea, the south, and the Gulf of Thailand is expected to strengthen.

Isolated heavy rain is likely across the country, with isolated very heavy rainfall possible in Bangkok and surrounding areas, as well as the east. Scattered thundershowers and isolated heavy rain is expected in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon and Surat Thani. Continued …

The real ‘Dark Side’ of Thailand

The BBC’s “Thailand: The Dark Side of Paradise” seems to have really touched a nerve. Try replacing the country name in that title and you’ll get the picture: “Paris: The Dark Side of Romance,” “London: The Dark Side of Majesty,” or “Los Angeles: The Dark Side of Dreams.” The list goes on.

Every place has great aspects and bad sides, and that’s precisely why the BBC documentary on Thailand has been widely criticized, unsurprisingly by a number of expats and Thai influencers abroad. Continued …

Thailand Denies BBC Documentary Filming Interference Claims

Thailand’s Tourism and Sports Ministry has strongly denied claims that government officials interfered with BBC documentary filming in Bangkok, following viral reports that sparked concerns about the country’s film production environment.

Tourism and Sports Permanent Secretary Natriya Thaweewong revealed that the government immediately launched an investigation after the major international broadcaster alleged that Thai officials obstructed their documentary production in the capital. Continued …

Thailand connects 10,000+ facilities to national digital health platform

The Ministry of Public Health has reported major progress in Thailand’s digital health policy, with more than 10,000 service units now connected to the national Personal Health Record (PHR) system. The platform contains records for over 64.7 million patients, while more than one million electronic referrals and nearly 1.7 million radiographic images have been processed through linked digital systems.

Permanent Secretary Opas Karnkawinpong said the MOPH Digital Health Platform is designed to integrate data across service units and ease workloads for both patients and medical personnel. Currently, 10,628 facilities are connected to the PHR system, 2,824 facilities utilize the MOPH REFER system for patient transfers, and 589 facilities share images through the MOPH Imaging Hub. Continued …

US Rate Cut Impact: Thai Baht May Strengthen Rapidly

Vorapak Tanyawong, nominated for Thailand’s finance minister, expressed concerns about the potential rapid appreciation of the baht following the US Federal Reserve’s de cision to cut its interest rate by 0.25%. This development could impact Thailand’s export and tourism sectors if the baht strengthens too rapidly.

As investors might turn to Southeast Asian markets, the Thai bond and investment sectors could see increased foreign investment. The US Federal Reserve’s rate cut marks a significant move, with two additional reductions anticipated later this year. The diminishing interest rate gap between Thailand and the US could attract more foreign funds into Thailand. Continued …

Finance Ministry warns 2025 revenue shortfall amid weak economy

A senior Finance Ministry source revealed that government revenue collection for the 2025 fiscal year is likely to fall short of the 2.88-trillion-baht target set in the budget documents by tens of billions of baht. The shortfall is primarily driven by slower economic growth, with the Fiscal Policy Office (FPO) projecting GDP expansion of just 2.2% for the year.

Several key tax categories have underperformed expectations. Most notably, automobile tax revenue has been hit by the government’s electric vehicle (EV) promotion scheme, which reduced the number of combustion engine cars paying tax. Continued …

Microsoft to build 3 Thai data centers amid national AI push

Microsoft Thailand is constructing three local data centers under strategic partnerships to deliver localized cloud services. The company is also introducing advanced intelligence technologies to enable Thai organizations to become “frontier firms”.

Microsoft defines a frontier firm as an organization that strategically adopts artificial intelligence (AI) to gain a competitive edge. Continued …

Thailand sees decline in visitors from Southeast Asia

Thailand welcomed more than 6.4 million tourists from nine markets in Southeast Asia during the first eight months of this year, down 9.4% year-on-year amid safety concerns and political instability.

Malaysia led the arrivals with 3 million, followed by Laos and Singapore with 630,000 and 612,000, respectively. Indonesia and Vietnam were fourth and fifth largest inbound markets with 550,000 and 482,000 arrivals. Visitors from Myanmar and the Philippines grew 18.8% and 22.4%. Continued …

TAT launches Thai curry rice championship to globalize Thai cuisine

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), in collaboration with the Thai Restaurant Assn. and several other partners, has launched the “Khao Gaeng Thai Curry Rice Championship 2025” to identify the best Thai curry rice chefs in the country.

The competition is aimed at promoting Thai curry rice as a global culinary experience and driving international awareness of Thailand’s diverse food culture. Continued …

Phuket’s image ‘said marred by rampant cannabis use’

People’s Party (PP) MP Chalermpong Saengdee has called on the newly formed government to urgently address the widespread use of cannabis in Phuket, warning the province’s image as a world-class tourist destination is at risk, especially ahead of the high season.

Chalermpong told the media yesterday that although the Bhumjaithai Party-led (BJT) government will only have four months in office, it is enough time to resolve long-standing issues, particularly since the party was the driving force behind the legalization of cannabis. Continued …

Thailand’s 6 top souvenir snacks

Souvenirs don’t always have to be keychains or fridge magnets. Sometimes the best keepsakes come in bite-sized form. After all, what better way to remember a place than through its flavors?

In Thailand, snacks are a wild mix, inspired by local flavors offering both sweet and savory bites. Local snacks capture the spirit of a city in a way nothing else can – crunchy, sweet, savory, or sometimes all three at once. Continued …

Green industrial policy race in Asia quickens despite US retreat

Despite the United States retreating from green subsidies, governments across the Indo-Pacific are accelerating their investment in green technology to address energy security, climate pressures, and industrial competitiveness.

This intensifying policy race — driven by China’s leadership and widespread economic incentives — risks global economic distortions unless managed through transparency, reciprocity, and regional cooperation. Continued …

Chula Partners with the Ocean Cleanup to Stop Plastic Waste before It Hits the Ocean

Thailand’s Chulalongkorn University has partnered with The Ocean Cleanup and the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources to use camera technology and AI to analyze the amount of waste in the Chao Phraya River, aiming to reduce environmental impacts and to promote effective waste-management policies both on land and in water sources.

“By examining the label of plastic waste found on the Chao Phraya River, we found garbage that dates back 10 years!” Suchana Chavanich, professor of marine science, Faculty of Science, and deputy director of the Aquatic Resources Research Institute, Chulalongkorn University, revealed findings from the Chao Phraya River Plastic Waste Disposal Research Project in Bangkok, where Chula researchers used cameras and AI technology to intercept and track waste in the Chao Phraya River from 2021 to 2024. Continued …

Thailand’s Iconic Tuk-Tuks Evolve: From Smoker To Zero Emission

Bangkok’s streets tell the story of Thailand’s transportation evolution through the distinctive puttering of its three-wheeled tuk-tuks. What began as noisy, smoke-belching two-stroke engines in the 1960s transformed into cleaner LPG-powered vehicles in the 1990s, and now these iconic vehicles are completing their technological journey with electric powertrains that promise to reshape Bangkok’s urban mobility landscape.

The tuk-tuk’s fuel evolution mirrors Thailand’s broader approach to environmental progress through practical, incremental change. The original two-stroke engines that gave tuk-tuks their characteristic sound also made them significant contributors to Bangkok’s air pollution problems. The transition to liquefied petroleum gas in the 1990s reduced emissions while maintaining the vehicles’ economic viability for drivers operating on thin margins. Continued …

Changan supplies 443 Deepal EVs for Thai bank fleet

Changan is supplying the 443 Deepal EVs via asap Car Rental, a service provider based in Samut Prakan District, Samut Prakan Province. Krungthai Bank is leasing all the EVs from the local rental company and has already taken delivery of the first batch.

The Chinese automaker states that the fleet order consists of three models: the Deepal S05 compact SUV, the Deepal S07 mid-size SUV, and the Deepal L07 mid-size saloon. Continued …

Phuket Police Hunt Foreign Suspects in Robbery of American – Continued …

Kirk killing sparks fierce US free speech debate

For Americans, the words are practically sacred: the First Amendment to the US Constitution guarantees freedom of speech. But that right is now the subject of bitter debate, following the killing of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk. Continued …

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Saturday’s news-May 17

May 17, 2025 Hua Hin Expat News

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Soi 94 electricutions/Illegal Hua Hin limestone mine/PKK as global wellness tourism hub/Hypertension hides in plain sight/COVID-19 cases surge/Tycoon, 14 Others Denied Bail/Pattaya’s Marina Parking Project/Police Officer Killed in Bombing/US professor Trapped in Thailand/Phuket gears up with sandbags/Foreigners behaving badly/ECONOMY: Digital wallet killed/Thailand Data Center Boom/Thai Port Authority Record Profits/Thailand-Vietnam trade target/Thai pet food sector/TOURISM: Financial evidence required for visas/Hot Springs into Spa Destinations/New flights to Vietnam/THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Destinations under the radar/Phuket’s Peranakan festival/CLIMATE THAILAND: Changan opens Thailand EV plant/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

Hypertension hides in plain sight

Thailand’s economy has surged. Its health care system is admired. Yet, a silent killer is quietly stealing lives, straining hospitals, and sapping the nation’s future. That killer is hypertension – and it’s hiding in plain sight.

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is often called the “silent killer” for good reason. It creeps up with no symptoms, quietly damaging the heart, brain, kidneys, and blood vessels. It doesn’t just hurt individuals and families – it burdens our health system with avoidable costs and robs the economy of productivity through absenteeism and premature death. Continued …

Thailand’s COVID-19 cases surge past 71,000, with 19 deaths

COVID-19 cases have surged in Thailand, with a total of 71,067 infections and 19 deaths reported between Jan. 1 and May 14, according to the government’s COVID-19 Information Center.

The number of cases continues to rise, with two significant cluster outbreaks identified. The spike follows the Songkran holiday period, during which case numbers steadily increased. Continued …

Tycoon, 14 Others Denied Bail in Fatal Bangkok Building Collapse

The Ratchada Criminal Court yesterday denied bail and ordered the detention of Premchai Karnasuta, the president of Italian-Thai Development, along with 14 others.

These individuals are implicated in the catastrophic collapse of the State Audit building in Bangkok, which occurred during the March 28 earthquake. Although the tragedy claimed the lives of around 92 people, the gravity of the incident extends beyond the casualty figures, sending ripples of fear and concern through the public. Continued …

Pattaya’s 345-Million-Baht Marina Parking Project Left Abandoned for 17 Years

A long-abandoned marina parking project in South Pattaya has become a stark symbol of failed urban planning, poor project management, and wasteful public spending, with over 345 million baht of taxpayer funds yielding nothing but rust and rubble.

The South Pattaya Marina Parking Facility, located near the Bali Hai Pier, was envisioned in 2008 as a state-of-the-art docking and vehicle parking solution to alleviate congestion and support the city’s booming marine tourism industry. Funded with 735 million baht from central government coffers, the project comprised two major components: an automated car park for 417 vehicles and a hydraulic boat parking system capable of accommodating over 360 vessels. Continued …

Police Officer Killed, Another Injured, in Roadside Bombing in Pattani

A police officer has died and another remains in critical condition following a targeted roadside bomb attack yesterday in Kapho District, Pattani Province, part of the violence-stricken deep south.

The incident occurred when officers from Kapho Police Station were patroling a known flashpoint area. The patrol vehicle was struck by an improvised explosive device (IED), believed to have been planted by insurgents seeking to ambush the security team. Continued …

Trapped in Thailand: US professor caught in royal law limbo

An American academic is stranded in Thailand despite prosecutors dropping serious royal defamation charges, sparking diplomatic concerns and fears of legal limbo.

Paul Chambers, a 58-year-old political science lecturer, was arrested last month under Thailand’s strict lese majeste law — a rarely enforced statute against foreigners that carries up to 15 years in prison. Though the state prosecutor recently dropped the charges, Chambers remains stuck in the country, with his passport confiscated and visa revoked. Continued …

Phuket gears up with sandbags ahead of rainy season

Phuket is bracing for the rainy season with a full-scale flood battle plan ready to roll out, as officials warn locals to stay alert and keep canals clear of rubbish.

To tackle potential flooding, the Phuket City Municipality Flood Prevention and Resolution Operation Center has mobilized manpower, machinery, and sandbags ready for distribution in high-risk areas. Measures also include cleaning and dredging canals to boost water flow. Continued …

Brutal Bloodshed in Pattaya: Briton Stabbed, Suspects Vanish – Continued …
31 Thai and Chinese suspects arrested in Rayong for money laundering – Continued …

Digital wallet 10,000-baht handout killed

The government has scrapped its plan to distribute 10,000 baht via the digital wallet program — one of its flagship policies — and will instead reallocate over 150 billion baht toward a new economic stimulus plan.

This decision comes amid escalating global economic uncertainties caused by the trade war and the recent imposition of U.S. tariff measures, which have affected the global economy, as well as Thailand’s exports and manufacturing sectors. Continued …

Global Tech Giants Double Down on Thailand Data Center Boom

Major global technology firms and investment powerhouses are maintaining their confidence in Thailand’s potential as a digital hub, pressing ahead with significant investments in data centers. The Thailand Board of Investment (BOI) has indicated a strong pipeline, with another four to five substantial projects poised for board approval.

Existing investments in the sector have already surpassed 380 billion baht. The latest development sees global investment giant GIP-BlackRock teaming up with Thai conglomerate CP Group for a 175-billion-baht data center venture, while both Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Microsoft have reaffirmed their ongoing investment plans for the country. Continued …

Thai Port Authority Navigates to Record Profits

The Port Authority of Thailand (PAT) is celebrating its 74th anniversary, having announced its highest-ever profits of 7,648 million baht. This financial performance for the fiscal year 2024 marks the third consecutive year of record-breaking revenue, which hit a total of 17,224 million baht.

The strong performance has continued into the first half of fiscal year 2025 (October 2024 to March 2025), with a net profit of 3,500 million baht reported. The number of ships docking at Thai ports reached 7,371, a 1.95% increase. Continued …

Thailand-Vietnam trade target of $25 billion set

Thailand and Vietnam have agreed to promote economic links and work together to boost bilateral trade to US$25 billion a year, from $20 billion now, in the near future, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra said.

She made the remarks at a media briefing after the 4th Thailand–Vietnam Joint Cabinet Retreat, which she co-chaired with Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh during her official two-day visit, which ended yesterday. Continued …

Thai pet food sector envisions bright prospects

Thailand’s pet food sector has steadily grown over the past five years, generating lucrative revenues of over 300 billion baht and average annual profits of 12 billion baht for domestic firms.

Auramon Supthaweethum, director-general of the Department of Business Development under the Ministry of Commerce, shared this update with reporters, citing changing lifestyles — particularly the growing tendency to treat pets as family members — as a key driver of this growth. Continued …

Financial evidence once again required for tourist visas

As of this month, individuals applying for a tourist visa to Thailand must once again provide evidence of sufficient financial resources. This requirement was originally removed in November 2023 as part of a broader initiative to simplify procedures for international visitors. Its reinstatement marks a slight tightening of entry rules for tourists who are not eligible for visa exemption.

Thailand’s official e-Visa website now states that applicants must present “financial evidence: an amount of no less than 20,000 THB (e.g., bank statements for the last three months, sponsorship letter).” Continued …

Thailand to Transform 118 Hot Springs into Spa Destinations

The Ministry of Tourism and Sports is pushing forward with plans to develop Thailand’s hot springs into international-standard spa towns, hoping to compete with Japan’s famous onsen resorts.

Nattareeya Thaweewong, permanent secretary of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, revealed that a 2023 survey identified 118 hot springs throughout Thailand. Of these, 71 are located in the north, 32 in the south, 12 in central Thailand, and two in the eastern region. These are categorized as isolated natural hot springs (12 locations), hot springs in natural areas (33), rural hot springs (63), and urban hot springs (10). Continued …

Thailand plots new flights to Vietnam to boost tourism

Thailand is gearing up to launch new direct flights linking its northeastern provinces to Vietnam to supercharge tourism and deepen regional ties.

The plan, revealed during Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s official visit to Vietnam, aims to make travel easier between the neighboring countries, while tapping into their growing tourism markets. Continued …

10 destinations in Thailand that are under the radar

Places like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket get most of the spotlight, but Thailand has so much more to offer if you’re willing to wander a little. Beyond the tourist trails are towns and destinations with old-school character, peaceful views, and flavors you won’t find in any travel app in Thailand.

These spots are for the curious traveler who prefers calm over crowds, and real moments over photo ops. From lakeside strolls to mountain sunrises, these 10 underrated destinations show a quieter, deeper side of Thailand, still beautiful, just less expected. Continued …

Phuket ready for Peranakan festival

Phuket is gearing up for a spectacular celebration, including a grand carnival procession, as part of the Phuket Peranakan Festival 2025. The event, to be held from June 20 to 22, is expected to stimulate the resort island’s economy by pumping in over 400 million baht.

This year’s festival has been elevated to a new level, partly to celebrate prestigious awards Phuket recently received, Phuket Deputy Gov. Adul Chuthong said yesterday. Continued …

Chinese carmaker Changan opens Thailand EV plant

China’s carmaker Changan opened its Thailand plant yesterday, as its 28.59 millionth vehicle rolled off the assembly line in the factory, marking a milestone in the company’s global expansion.

As the first overseas vehicle factory of Changan Automobile, the factory is located in Thailand’s eastern Rayong Province, with a total investment of approximately 10 billion Thai baht. Continued …

Moody’s cuts America’s pristine credit rating, citing rising debt

Moody’s downgraded the U.S. sovereign credit rating yesterday due to concerns about the nation’s growing, $36-trillion debt pile, in a move that could complicate President Donald Trump’s efforts to cut taxes and send ripples through global markets. Continued …

US tells Vietnam trade deficit ‘unsustainable’ and major concern

The United States has told Vietnam its trade deficit with the Southeast Asian country is “unsustainable” and a major concern, Vietnamese state media reported yesterday, as the two countries hold negotiations on tariffs. Continued …

South Korea’s $9-Trillion Nuclear Power Resurgence

As nuclear energy resurges, South Korea stands out as a leader, having developed the best large-scale nuclear power infrastructure. This positions the nation to benefit from the growing global demand for clean energy sources, enhancing its competitiveness in the international energy market. South Korea’s advancements could play a significant role in reshaping the future of nuclear energy. 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

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Friday’s news-Aug 23

August 23, 2024 Hua Hin Expat News

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Hua Hin pub death probe/Hua Hin property development under fire/Thailand Open tennis returns/Chachoengsao plane crash/Mpox strain hits Thailand/Northern Thailand flooding/Amcham Thailand Foundation hosts Career Camp/Rail systems in 4 provinces/Bangkok to Beijing train/NACC accuses 3 police/Thai government’s trust crisis/Foreigners behaving badly/Economy: Who’s in charge?/10k handout begins in September/Pursuing BRICS Membership/Thai Oil and Gas Industry/Toyota zooms ahead in Thailand/Duck egg prices up again/Tourism: Zero-Dollar Chinese Tours/1,200 Destination Visas/New Suvarnabhumi runway/Another Illegal Luxury Villa/Climate Thailand: Thailand on the clock/Energy plan faces delay/EV battery boom/Changan to open Thai EV factory/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Army lawyer joins Hua Hin pub death probe

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

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

Unnamed Hua Hin property development under fire

Continued …

Thailand Open tennis returns to Hua Hin in September

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

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

Nine confirmed dead in Chachoengsao plane crash

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

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

Deadly new mpox strain hits Thailand

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

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

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

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

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

Amcham Thailand Foundation hosts Career Camp for university, vocational grads

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

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

MRTA plans rail systems in 4 provinces

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

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

Bangkok to Beijing train: Mekong River railway bridge opens

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

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

NACC accuses 3 police of being ‘unusually rich’

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

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

Survey reveals Thai government’s trust crisis

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

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

Indian Gang Violence in Pattaya Sparks Public Concern

Continued …

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

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

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

10k handout begins in Sept, prioritizing vulnerable sections

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

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

What Motivates Thailand to Pursue BRICS Membership?

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

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

Exploring the Thai Oil and Gas Industry

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

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

Toyota zooms ahead in Thailand’s automobile market

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

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

Duck egg prices up again to 5.10 baht an egg

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

New Suvarnabhumi runway to open at year-end

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

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

Another Illegal Luxury Villa by Chinese Investors Found on Koh Samui

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

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

Thailand on the clock to adopt global pacts on emissions

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

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

National energy plan faces delay amid cabinet reshuffle

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

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

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

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

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

Changan to open Thai EV factory next March

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

“We expect to start producing battery EVs in March 2025,” said Shen Xinghua, managing director of Changan Auto Southeast Asia, a subsidiary of the Chongqing-based company. The company will produce right-hand drive EVs for sale in the domestic market, and use the Thai facility as its production base to export left-hand drive EVs, he said. Continued …

Bus Tickets

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

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

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