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Thursday’s news-July 4

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British Couple Outraged/Bluport adds convention hall/Special offers at Hua Hin golf courses/Minibus driver found using meth/PKK road safety programs/Abbot arrested for possession of endangered wildlife remains/Regional haze challenges discussed/Nationwide Crackdown on Drug Abuse/COVID-19 Surge To Peak in July/Red Bull Co-Owners Top Richest List/Bangkok-Vientiane train service/US, Thailand kick off academic program/Is cannabis really safe?/Foreigners behaving badly/Economy: Current crisis facing Thai businesses/Contractions in auto, property sectors/Condo association warns of crisis/Invest in infrastructure, green economy/Decentralizing power to secondary cities/Digital wallet signs up vendors/Trade talk to ramp up/Set to boost Thai exports/Soft power to reduce social inequality/Integrate transport modes/Southeast Asia needs more renewables/Tourism: Security and tourism infrastructure upgrades/Airports see 20% more passengers/Koh Samui’s drought nightmare vs Phuket’s flooding/Thailand Experience: Chef’s Koh Samui cooking school/Lisa’s new solo single sets guideposts/Chinatown paved with flowers/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

British Couple Outraged Over £9 Tin of Heinz Beans in Thailand

A British couple holidaying in Thailand discovered that some home comforts come at a jaw-dropping price abroad.

Mark and Nadine, originally from the UK and Ireland but now residing in Australia, were having a tropical getaway when they were floored by the cost of a simple can of Heinz baked beans in a local Thai supermarket. Continued …

Bluport adds convention hall to Hua Hin mall

Hua Hin Asset, the developer and operator of Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, is adding a 3,000-square-meter convention hall to attract new target visitors and tenants, aiming to boost occupancy to 90% and reach the break-even point within three years.

Vajee Klomkliang, a member of the company’s executive committee, said the expansion stems from a recovery of tourism business in Hua Hin and increased traffic at its mall last year. Continued …

Special offers at Hua Hin golf courses

Golf enthusiasts in Hua Hin have a special reason to hit the greens over the next couple of months. To celebrate the 100th anniversary of Thai Golf Day, several local golf courses are offering not-to-be-missed deals and tournaments.

The Royal Hua Hin Golf Course, along with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and the Prachuap Khiri Khan-Phetchaburi Golf Assn., is hosting a series of tournaments in July and August. For a fee of THB 1,750, participants can enjoy a round of golf, caddy services, and dinner. Continued …

Email link: sivanavillas@gmail.com

PKK to Bangkok minibus driver found using meth for trip

Minibus passengers sought help from Nakhon Pathom Highway Police after the drug-addicted driver drove dangerousl  on a trip from the southern province of Prachuap Khiri Khan to Bangkok.

Officers from Nakhon Pathom Highway Police Station yesterday were alerted that the Bangkok-Prachuap Khiri Khan minibus driver was driving at a very high speed, and the vehicle was swerving dangerously throughout the journey. The passengers believed that the driver must be under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Continued …

Funds sought for PKK road safety programs

Prachuap Khiri Khan Province is stepping up efforts to secure funds from the Road Safety Fund for 2024 to enhance road safety and reduce accidents.

Yesterday at Prachuap Khiri Khan Provincial Hall, Gov. Somkid Chantamanu chaired a meeting of the subcommittee on the allocation of the Road Safety Fund. Continued …

Abbot arrested for possession of endangered wildlife remains in Hua Hin

Park officials have arrested the abbot of a local monastery in Bueng Nakhon subdistrict in Hua Hin for possessing remains of endangered and protected wildlife.

Somjet Janthana, director of Protected Areas Regional Office 3 (Phetchaburi Branch), revealed that he received a report from the head of the patrol and suppression unit of the Wildlife Conservation Division, Protected Areas Regional Office 3 (Phetchaburi Branch). Continued …

Regional haze challenges discussed

Thailand has affirmed its commitment to stepping up efforts to combat transboundary haze pollution in cooperation with regional partners, says Environment Minister Phatcharavat Wongsuwan.

Phatcharavat made the declaration on Wednesday at a meeting of an ASEAN sub-regional ministerial committee on haze pollution in Bangkok. Delegates from Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand were represented, along with aspiring ASEAN member Timor-Leste as an observer. Continued …

PM Launches Nationwide Crackdown on Drug Abuse

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has launched an aggressive nationwide crackdown on drug abuse and trafficking, named the “X-ray” operations. This initiative seeks to root out drug abusers and dismantle trafficking networks across Thailand.

Government spokesperson Chai Wacharonke announced that drug abusers will be directed to rehabilitation centers, while traffickers will face arrest and rigorous legal consequences. Provincial governors will lead the charge, ensuring individuals aged 16 and above undergo mandatory urine tests. Continued …

Thailand’s COVID-19 Surge Expected to Peak in July

Thailand faces a significant surge in COVID-19 cases, with infections expected to peak in July, according to Dr. Thongchai Keeratihattayakorn, chief of Thailand’s Disease Control Department. The country reported 3,256 hospital admissions and 16 fatalities between June 23-29, highlighting an alarming rise in cases.

Out of these recent hospital admissions, 709 patients suffered from severe lung infections, and 336 required ventilators. Since the start of the year, Thailand has seen a total of 31,205 COVID-19 hospital admissions, resulting in 172 deaths, predominantly among those over the age of 69. Continued …

Red Bull Co-Owners Top Thailand’s Richest List

Chalerm Yoovidhya and family, co-owners of Red Bull, have emerged as the wealthiest individuals in Thailand, according to Forbes’ latest ranking. Their combined wealth surged by $2.6 billion, hitting a record $36 billion, thanks to Red Bull’s robust performance, with over $11 billion in revenue from more than 12 billion cans sold globally in 2023.

This advancement crowns them as the new leaders in the Forbes list of Thailand’s top 50 richest, overshadowing the long-reigning Chearavanont brothers. Continued …

Bangkok-Vientiane train service begins July 19

A new international train service connecting Bangkok and Vientiane in Laos will begin services on July 19, the State Railway of Thailand announced on Wednesday.

The SRT is extending the Bangkok-Nong Khai route for this new service. The train will depart from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station (Bangkok Central) at 9.25 pm on July 19 and arrive in Vientiane at 9.05 am on July 20. Continued …

US, Thailand kick off new academic program

The United States has launched a new academic flagship program to boost education ties with Thailand. The move was announced by Robert Godec, the U.S. ambassador, during a press briefing on Tuesday.

He said the embassy has introduced an education initiative called the International Academic Partnership Program (IAPP) by partnering with the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation, as well as the Institute of International Education (IIE) as the implementor of IAPP Thailand. Continued …

Is cannabis really safe? Here’s what you need to know

Thai society’s views on cannabis continue to change for the better as the industry grows. More and more people are starting to embrace the plant for its medicinal and holistic wellness benefits.

But despite growing acceptance, some stigma and perception persists, especially with government plans to outlaw cannabis again in the near future. The uncertainty isn’t unique to Thailand. Around the world, cannabis continues to be a hot topic in political, legal, and social discussions about its safety and benefits. Continued …

  • Canadian military man confesses to gangster’s murder in Thailand – Continued …
  • Phuket Immigration Crackdown: Four Foreign Nationals Arrested – Continued …
  • Chinese-Kazakh Couple Deceive by Selling Fake Luxury Watches – Continued …

Current crisis facing Thai businesses ‘worse than during Covid-19’

A mix of factors such as the rapid technology transition, global polarization and economic slowdown have plunged the Thai business sector in a crisis more severe than what it encountered during the Covid-19 pandemic, the Marketing Association of Thailand said on Wednesday.

Association President Buranin Rattanasombat said business operators were expected to face those challenges until next year. The business sector would be affected by changes in technology for the next five to 10 years, as well as the global polarization, which would aggravate, he warned. Continued …

Contractions in auto, property sectors a blow to economic expansion

Contractions in the automotive and property sectors have severely impacted the Thai economy in the first half of the year and prompted several institutes to adjust downward their estimates on economic expansion this year, the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB) announced.

In its monthly meeting to discuss the economic situation on Wednesday, the JSCCIB cut its estimation of Thailand’s gross domestic product (GDP) expansion in 2024 by 0.3%-0.4% to 2.2%-2.7% year on year. Continued …

Condo association warns of crisis in property sector

The Thai property sector will face challenges in meeting sales targets this year due to a decline in demand and purchasing power, Thai Condominium Assn. President Prasert Taedullayasatit said on Tuesday.

He referred to the Asian financial crisis in 1997 and its impact on property prices, as financial institutions and asset management companies turned to offering non-performing assets at cheaper rates than the original sale prices. “The reason behind the decline in property prices during the Tom Yum Kung crisis was a weakening baht that triggered an increase in the debt burden among business entrepreneurs and banks,” he said. Continued …

World Bank urges Thailand to invest in infrastructure, green economy

The World Bank has advised the Thai government to boost investment in reviving aging infrastructure and strengthening the green economy, to help drive the country’s economic potential beyond 2.7% growth in the medium term.

The bank forecasts Thai GDP growth of 2.4% in 2024 and 2.8% in 2025. The government’s planned digital wallet initiative is not included in the baseline forecast, but it could potentially enhance near-term growth if implemented, Kiatipong Ariyapruchya, a senior economist for Thailand at the World Bank, told an ecnomic seminar on Wednesday. Continued …

Email link – kenbrown@businessclassasia.com

Decentralizing power to secondary cities key to growth

According to a report released by the World Bank on Wednesday, investing in local infrastructure and decentralization and allowing local authorities to choose and decide their own future is a key starting point for Thailand to unlock its secondary city growth potential.

“Unlocking the Growth Potential of Secondary Cities” focuses on the long-term benefits of a more balanced approach to urbanization, highlighting Thailand’s secondary cities’ untapped potential and their critical role in supporting the country’s future growth and economic prosperity. Continued …

Digital wallet scheme signs up vendors

The Commerce Ministry says up to 1.6 million vendors are ready to join the digital wallet scheme, which is expected to pump up the economy, increase store income and reduce the cost of living.

Following a visit to Nakhon Ratchasima province, Yanyong Phuangrach, adviser to the deputy prime minister, said vendors confirmed their readiness to take part in the government’s scheme. Continued …

Trade talk to ramp up

The Trade Negotiations Department has laid out its blueprint for the second half of 2024, aiming to conclude free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations with the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) by year-end, and preparing to host joint trade committee (JTC) meetings with the UK and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) this year in preparation for future FTAs.

Chotima Iemsawasdikul, director-general of the department, said plans have begun to accelerate negotiations for FTAs, with Thailand-EFTA a priority for the government. Continued … 

US-China spat set to boost Thai exports, says panel

Thai exports should gain from the latest round of the U.S.-China trade war, with growth estimated at 0.8%-1.5%, up from an earlier projection of 0.5%-1.5%, says the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB).

The committee is upbeat about some advantages from the trade war, differing from the view of the Thai National Shippers’ Council, which previously said the dispute was an unpredictable factor for shippers. Continued …

Government sees soft power as a tool to reduce social inequality

Soft power is an important strategy for the Thai economy in order to become a high-income country, the National Soft Power Development Board Deputy Chairman Surapong Suebwonglee said recently.

Apart from generating revenue for the country, he said soft power should help reduce social inequality and Thai people should benefit from it. Honing skills and creativity will benefit 20 million people, he said. Continued …

Thailand advised to integrate transport modes

To achieve its goal of becoming an aviation hub by 2030, Thailand should encourage more robust domestic travel and integrate different modes of transport, according to Alton Aviation Consultancy.

Managing Director Mabel Kwan said aviation is an integrated ecosystem that requires collaboration between different segments, including airlines, airports, customers, ground handling and transport connecting airports. Continued …

Southeast Asia needs more renewables

Renewable energy offers Southeast Asia sustainable, affordable, and reliable power, but achieving this requires bold, decisive action. Slowing down coal phase-out ambitions would undermine these efforts.

Southeast Asian countries are highly vulnerable to climate change impacts, yet they continue to rely heavily on coal for economic development. Compared to other parts of the world, the region is still to fully embrace the potential of low-cost renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power. Despite commitments to phase out coal, Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines still plan to build 45GW of new coal capacity, lacking detailed roadmaps for coal phase-out and ambition to phase in renewables. Continued …

Security and tourism infrastructure upgrades essential, ATTA says

Improving country security and standardizing tourism infrastructure will help Thailand meet its target of 36.7 foreign visitors this year, Sittiwat Chiwarattanaporn, president of the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA), said on Monday.

His remarks came after the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) released a report showing that over 14.7 million international tourists visited the Land of Smiles in the first five months of 2024. Continued …

Thai international airports see 20% more passengers YOY

In the first five months of 2024, the six international airports run by Airports of Thailand (AOT) recorded 52.16 million passengers, an increase of 20.3% over the same period in 2023, Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit announced on Wednesday.

The AOT manages six airports nationwide, namely Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, Mae Fah Luang, Phuket and Hat Yai, which account for 95% of domestic and international flights. Continued …

Koh Samui’s drought nightmare vs Phuket’s flooding chaos

Koh Samui is reeling from an acute water shortage as its reservoirs are drying up amid a prolonged drought. On the island of Phuket, residents are battling heavy rainfall and flooding.

Koh Samui’s main reservoir, with a capacity of 800,000 cubic meters, is down to a mere 10%, enough to last just two weeks. The Krajood reservoir fares slightly better at 25% capacity, sufficient for about 30 days. Chaweng Reservoir, although containing 2 million cubic meters, holds brackish water, rendering it unusable. Continued …

Chef’s Koh Samui cooking school teaches popular dishes

Lin Rattana chops the chilli, ginger and lemongrass at lightning speed as a group of guests looks on eagerly, keen to learn from the chef who grew up in the northern Thai city of Chiang Mai, where she was taught how to cook by her grandmother.

Today, Lin’s home is the Thai island of Koh Samui, where her culinary knowledge is shared with people from all over the world at the Jungle Kitchen cooking school she runs with her British partner, Tom Charlesworth. Continued …

Lisa’s new solo single sets guideposts for other Blackpink members

Since all Blackpink members terminated their solo contracts with YG Entertainment last year to embark on their individual paths, Lisa became the first among the four to release a new single.

Titled “Rockstar,” it dropped on June 28 in partnership with RCA Records, setting a milestone for the other former members as they pursue their solo careers. The Thai K-pop star’s new single instantly ranked 8th on Spotify’s Global Chart in the U.S. upon its release, the highest ranking ever recorded by a female K-pop solo artist on the platform. Continued …

Bangkok’s Chinatown paved with flowers as new sidewalk blooms

Bangkok’s most beautiful sidewalk has been unveiled in Chinatown (Yaowarat) as part of a four-year plan to improve the city’s notoriously perilous pavements while attracting more Chinese tourists.

The dark-red tiled sidewalk features a pattern of peony flowers and replaces the previous dragon-scale design, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) spokesman Aekvarunyoo Amrapala said on Tuesday. Continued and photos …

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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
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Wednesday’s news.Dec 20

Today’s news: Van To Hua Hin Crashes/Alcohol Tax Reduction/Dual-Track Railway Challenges/Drone videos come to an end/True value of older properties/Diesel, electricity prices capped/Boost Your Brain Health/Complaints over True-DTAC merger/True complies with conditions/Chilling forecast, heavy rain/Hanging wires strike again/Grab reveals changes/Talks over disputed Gulf region/Lisa Blackpink reigns/Nine Thais ‘set fire to Cambodian casino/Cardboard Box With Human Leg Skeletons/Forest Complex Has More Tigers/Economy: Minimum wage to be reconsidered/Thailand’s overlooked workforce/Cannot afford to retire/Concerns for Thai SMEs/Real estate in 2024 vulnerable/Car production down 14%/Are EVs Thailand’s auto future?/Package to bolster Thailand’s EV industry/Quicker green energy transition/Indian firm acquires Thai KFC/Tourism: Crackdown on visa overstayers/Visa scam in Pattaya/Bt300 tourist levy scrapped/Travel insurance tourist arrivals/Impact of 4am closing times/Park defends high fees/Direct Flights from India/Air Arabia begins flights to Phuket/Thailand Experience: Artist Kanchanok Inprung and the Hua Hin Sketchers/Best Thai Beef Recipes/Kissing Cave’s romantic silhouettes/3 easy Thai recipes/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

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Van On Its Way To Hua Hin Crashes, Seriously Hurting American Tourists

A passenger van with a Bangkok license plate collided with a rice-harvesting truck with a Phetchaburi license plate yesterday morning on Petchaburi Road (southbound) in Phetchaburi Province, seriously injuring two foreign tourists.

The rescue team from Tha Yang Hospital used cutting tools to free the two trapped American women from the wreckage at Kilometer 167-600, Moo 3, Tha Yang subdistrict, Tha Yang District, and take them to Tha Yang Hospital. Continued …

Thai Excise Department Eyes Alcohol Tax Reduction

On Dec. 18, Lawan Saengsanit, the director-general of the Revenue Department, publicly revealed the Thai Excise Department is scrutinizing reducing the alcohol tax structure appropriately to support Thailand’s tourism sector.

Initially, the conclusion would be made and presented to the next cabinet meeting due at the end of this month, and it is expected to be effective within January 2024. Continued …

Dual-Track Railway Challenges: Delays and Upgrades

Suraphong Piyachote, the minister of transport, conducted on-site inspections last week to evaluate the operational efficiency of the newly inaugurated dual-track railway spanning from Ban Kubua Station in Ratchaburi province to Sapli Station in Chumphon province, covering an extensive distance of 348 kilometers. The visit aimed to scrutinize the initial implementation of the revamped timetable accommodating 60 train services.

Challenges have emerged for the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) in adhering to the new timetable. Initial findings indicate that while the dual-track operation has marginally reduced travel time by approximately one hour, it falls short of the targeted 1.5-hour reduction. Although deemed faster than the previous system, certain trains in the initial phase experienced delays, deviating from the newly established schedule. Continued …

Hua Hin train station drone videos come to an end

After documenting the development of Hua Hin’s new train station and dual track train line for over two years, Mike’s Tropical Tech YouTube channel has concluded its popular drone series.

Video 

The series’ final episode coincides with the much-anticipated opening of the train station, a significant milestone in Thailand’s transportation infrastructure development. Continued …

The true value of older properties in Hua Hin: Expert tips

“Luxury houses for sale.” “Hot deal.” “Well-built homes at discounted prices.” It seems like we encounter these types of advertisements often in the Hua Hin real estate market.

Of course, it is possible to find great deals through panic sales for personal reasons, health reasons, relocations, or even just clients that bought on a higher exchange rate now repatriating funds on a weakened currency. Continued …

Cabinet caps diesel, electricity prices

The Cabinet has resolved to cap the price of diesel and electricity for households in a bid to ease people’s financial burden, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said on Tuesday.

Srettha, who also doubles as finance minister, said under the measure proposed by the Energy Ministry, diesel will be retailed at no more than 30 baht per liter for three months, while the price of electricity for households using less than 300 units per month will be capped at no more than 4.2 baht per unit. Continued …

11 Foods Experts Say Can Boost Your Brain Health And Help Ward Off Dementia

Most people know which foods to avoid for a healthy heart. Yet, do you often think about the foods you eat and how they affect the brain?

It’s been scientifically proven that diet can influence brain health. “The brain represents about 2% of our body weight, but it consumes about 20% of all of our calories,” said Dr. Robert Melillo, a brain researcher, clinician, autism expert, and founder of The Melillo Center in Long Island, New York. “The brain uses more calories than any other organ in our body; what we eat can have a big impact on our brain.” Continued …

Public complaints mount over the service impacts of the True DTAC merger

Public disquiet over the quality of services being provided by the firm forged by the True-DTAC merger sparked a crisis within the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) this week. It comes with allegations that the body’s role in conducting oversight of the merger’s impacts on the consumer market is being delayed or ignored.

Move Forward’s Sirikanya Tansakul has been stinging in her criticism of the body, while her party has introduced robust new legislation giving public watchdogs the power to break up business concerns that are pursuing anti-competitive practices. Continued …

True complies with NBTC’s conditions

True Corp. has complied with the conditions set by the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) for consumer protection, according to officials.

NBTC Acting Secretary-general Trairat Viriyasirikul and Prawet Moolpramuk, spokesman for the NBTC chairman, held a press conference on Tuesday to report the results of the regulator’s supervision following the merger of True and Total Access Communication (DTAC), in response to public complaints about the NBTC’s lack of consumer protection. Continued …

Chilling forecast for northern Thailand, while south braces for heavy rain

The Thai Meteorological Department has issued a level 4 warning, forecasting a sharp drop in temperatures across northern Thailand and heavy rainfall in the southern region. The warning, which came into effect from 5am today, is expected to last until Dec. 25.

The cold spell is due to a high-pressure system from China that is set to cover Thailand and the South China Sea. This will result in cooler weather and strong winds across Thailand, with temperatures plunging by up to 8 degrees Celsius. Continued …

Hanging wires strike again

A motorbike taxi driver in Pattaya narrowly escaped a life-threatening situation when he collided with a hanging cable on Dec. 17, resulting in a gruesome neck wound.

The driver, identified as Ethan Ketwongsa, 22, shared his horrific experience on Facebook, stating he drove a motorbike into a hanging cable on Soi Ban Nern Thang Rotfai 1, off the parallel railway road in east Pattaya. Continued …

Grab reveals changes in user behavior

Grab Thailand has unveiled its “Food and Grocery Trends Report 2023”, highlighting delivery preferences such as omni-commerce and the integration of digital platforms with out-of-home activities.

Grab reported som tum poo pla ra (papaya salad with crab and fermented fish) and coffee were the most popular menu items this year, with more than 4.4 million and 4.6 million orders, respectively, via GrabFood. Continued …

Thailand and Cambodia to resume talks over disputed Gulf region

February will see the reignition of talks between Thailand and Cambodia regarding a disputed region in the Gulf of Thailand, spanning 26,000 square kilometers. This area, rich in energy resources, is a matter of contention as both nations lay claim to it.

Experts suggest that the discussions should primarily concentrate on the mutual development of energy resources in the overlapping claims area (OCA) rather than on territorial disputes. This cooperative approach is believed to be a potential solution to reducing Thailand’s reliance on costly liquefied natural gas imports. Continued …

Thailand’s Lisa Blackpink reigns as best solo K-pop artist in 2023

Thailand’s first K-pop princess, Lalisa “Lisa” Manoban, has been named by the Guinness World Records as the world’s top solo K-pop artist of 2023 and the best in the history of the genre. Lalisa is the only Thai member of the South Korean all-girl K-pop band Blackpink.

As 2023 draws to a close, Guinness World Records’ list of outstanding performances and achievements highlights the global appeal of K-pop, with Lisa standing out as one of its most influential figures. Continued …

Nine Thais ‘set fire to Cambodian casino to escape murderous call center gang’

Nine Thais rescued near a border checkpoint in Sa Kaeo province on Monday claimed they had set fire to a nearby casino on the Cambodian border to escape a call center gang.

The eight men and one woman told rangers and immigration police at Aranyaprathet’s Ban Klong Luek border checkpoint that they lit a fire at the PuLi Casino in Poipet before fleeing back over the border near the checkpoint. Continued …

Cardboard Box From US Comes With Human Leg Skeletons

An employee of a material-sorting company in Chonburi Province found the skeletons of human legs attached to a cardboard box from the United States.

The Sri Racha police station in Sri Racha District, Chonburi Province, was notified that human legs were discovered in skeletal condition, compressed, and affixed to a cardboard box inside the container transported from the United States. Continued …

Thailand’s Western Forest Complex Has More Tigers

The Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation released yesterday the first photos of two tiger cubs and their mother in Slap Phra Wildlife Sanctuary, Kanchanaburi Province, western Thailand.

Mana Permpool, director of Wildlife Conservation Division, Regional Office 3 (Ban Pong), announced that the discovery of tiger cubs during the installation of automatic camera traps to track the long-term tiger population in Slap Phra Wildlife Sanctuary shows the potential of the area in terms of prey abundance and the condition of the forest area conducive for tiger reproduction. Continued …

New minimum wage to be reconsidered

A pivotal meeting is set to take place on Tuesday, led by the tripartite committee on minimum daily wages in Thailand.

The discussion is centered around the possibility of revising the new daily wage rate that was established on Dec. 8. This comes in the wake of comments made by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin criticizing the newly determined rate as being too low. Continued …

The hidden struggle of Thailand’s overlooked workforce

Thailand’s National Statistical Office (NSO) Director Piyanut Wuthison has exposed the stark reality of the nation’s labor force, where 21 million workers in the informal sector constitute a staggering 52.3% of Thailand‘s workforce.

“Our annual survey sheds light on the silent warriors of the informal labor sector, a staggering 21 million strong. These workers, often grappling with irregular hours and wages, find themselves on the fringes of legal protection.” Continued …

50% of Thais of working age cannot afford to retire

Some 50% of Thais of working age are not financially ready to retire, a survey by the Faculty of Commerce and Accountancy at Chulalongkorn University has found, with the institute recommending that government take steps to increase public education in financial planning, investment, and saving.

The survey, which was conducted among 2,400 Thais of working age nationwide, found that 49.3% of the respondents are financially prepared for retirement, Prof. Wilert Puriwat, dean of the commerce and accountancy faculty, said on Monday. Continued …

Study unveils rising stars, contraction concerns for Thai SMEs

A recent study has pinpointed the six rising-star small- and medium-sized businesses that are poised for substantial growth next year, and three that are at risk of potential contraction. The study was conducted by the Office of Small and Medium Enterprise Promotion (OSMEP).

OSMEP Director Weerapong Malai revealed on Tuesday that the office has been analyzing expansion trends among SMEs over the past few years by drawing data from operators and relevant agencies. Continued …

Real estate in 2024 vulnerable to four factors

A research and development company is predicting that four factors could negatively impact real estate in 2024: interest rates, labor costs, expenses, and banking.

For 2023, loan rejection rates are expected to rise by 60%-65% beyond credit approval, according to Prapansak Rakchaiyawan, the managing director of LWS Wisdom and Solution (LWS), a real estate research and development company in the LPN group. Continued …

November car production down 14% y/y, pickup output down

Car production in Thailand declined 14.1% in November from a year earlier to 163,337 units, on weaker production of pickup trucks and last year’s high base, the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) said yesterday.

The figure compared with October’s 7% year-on-year fall. Domestic car sales in November fell 9.76% year-on-year after October’s 8.75% drop from a year earlier. That was largely down to banks tightening loans for pickup trucks, spokesman Surapong Paisitpattanapong said. Continued …

Are EVs Thailand’s auto future?

The automotive industry is crucial to driving the Thai economy, as it contributes to exports and employment and, at over 2,300 entities, boasts a large number of manufacturers in the auto supply chain. But what is the future of electric vehicles (EVs) in Thailand’s future as carbon reduction target dates draw nearer?

In 2022, Thailand produced approximately 1.9 million vehicles, making it the largest automotive production base in ASEAN and ranked 10th globally. Continued …

Cabinet green lights 34-billion-baht package to bolster Thailand’s EV industry

The Cabinet has earmarked 34 billion baht to subsidize the purchase of electric vehicles and reduce import tariffs, a senior official said.

Narit Therdsteerasukdi, Board of Investment secretary-general, said on Tuesday that the approval of the “EV 3.5 package” marks the second phase of subsidies and tax reductions for battery electric vehicles’ sales. Continued …

Energy management giant calls for quicker green energy transition

Foreign investors warn that Thailand’s progress in mitigating greenhouse gas emissions falls short of expectations, despite the government’s commitment to carbon neutrality in and net zero emissions. Urgent action, particularly a rapid shift to renewable energy, is essential to address this critical issue.

In an interview, the president of Delta Electronics Thailand, Jackie Chang, emphasized the significance of green energy, education, smart city initiatives, and the issue of labor shortage. Video

Indian firm acquires Thai KFC franchisee

Devyani International of India says it will begin operating KFC outlets in Thailand after it acquired Restaurants Development Co. in deal a worth USD28.9 million, expected to be completed by March.

Restaurants Development Co. is one of three KFC franchisees in Thailand, running 274 KFC outlets and employing more than 4,500 people. Continued …

National crackdown on visa overstayers underway

Immigration police have launched another national crackdown targeting visa overstayers, and most especially foreign tourists overindulging in alcohol in the runup to Christmas and the New Year. On Monday, a 51-year-old German man drowned his sorrows after suffering rejection in love on the island of Ko Lanta. Later, he was nabbed after a tip-off to Krabi Police from locals.

It was a case of Murphy’s law, for a 51-year-old German tourist on Monday. The European found himself amid a pre-Christmas nightmare on Dec. 18 on Ko Lanta, the picturesque island in southern Thailand, near Krabi. Continued …

Pattaya visa scam leaves hundreds of tourists out of pocket and overstaying

Hundreds of victims have been financially swindled by an unscrupulous visa extension agency in Pattaya, with some foreign victims being illegally overstayed in the Kingdom.

The victims, with 40 passports, reported to the Pattaya City police that they had given their passports to the accused for visa extensions at the immigration office, but they were not returned. This led to some foreigners overstaying in the Kingdom. Continued … 

State eyes alternative to Bt300 tourist levy

The government is sidelining the 300-baht tourism fee that was postponed many times during the previous administration, seeking alternative insurance for foreign tourists.

Amid a deterioration in confidence regarding Thailand’s safety, the Tourism and Sports Ministry is studying several options to offer insurance coverage of 500,000 baht per person in case of injury and 1 million baht in the event of death from an accident. Continued …

Travel insurance to be arranged for all tourist arrivals over holiday season

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has ordered the Ministry of Tourism and Sports to arrange travel insurance to cover accidents and death for all foreign tourists arriving in Thailand during the New Year holiday period.

The prime minister’s order, issued at the cabinet meeting on Tuesday, follows two incidents involving foreign tourists who died recently in Thailand. Continued …

Police chief says too soon to determine impact of 4am closing times

Thailand’s national police chief says it’s too soon to determine the impact of extending closing time for nightlife venues.

Since Dec. 15, registered bars and clubs in parts of Phuket, Bangkok, Chon Buri (Pattaya), Surat Thani (Koh Samui) and Chiang Mai have been permitted to remain open until 4am, two hours later than the earlier legal closing times of 2am. Continued …

Park defends high fees for Tham Luang cave rescue tour

The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) has defended the admission fees of 950 baht for Thais and 1,500 baht for foreigners at Chiang Rai’s famed Tham Luang cave, saying they are required for operational and safety measures.

The cave caught the world’s attention in 2018, when the Wild Boars – 12 boys and their football coach – became trapped in its flooded passages before being rescued in a breathtaking international effort. Continued …

U-Tapao Airport Eyes Direct Flights from India

U-Tapao International Airport, located near Pattaya, is making an effort to attract direct flights from India, eyeing the vast potential of the Indian tourism market.

In a meeting held on Dec. 15, Admiral Ekasittichai Tangjai, director of U-Tapao airport, met with Natsuda Mettaprasert, deputy consul general to India, and Navaid Desai, general manager of customer relations at Indigo Airlines. Continued …

Air Arabia begins flights to Phuket

Air Arabia, the leading low-cost carrier in the Middle East and North Africa, has launched its maiden flight to Phuket, lifting off from Sharjah International Airport in the UAE.

Air Arabia Group Chief Executive Officer Adel Al Ali, celebrated this milestone, emphasizing the airline’s dedication to making travel accessible, and fueling growth in the travel and tourism sectors. Continued …

The journey of Phetchaburi artist Kanchanok Inprung and the Hua Hin Sketchers

Kanchanok Inprung, a Phetchaburi-based artist and art teacher, has gained international recognition for her evocative paintings and sketches that capture the essence of the region’s culture and lifestyle.

Known affectionately as “Mew”, her artistic journey recently took an exciting turn when she was approached by Mango Edition, a French publishing house, to illustrate a book focusing on Asian cuisine. Each nation in the book is represented by a different artist, with Mew being chosen to bring Thailand’s rich culinary heritage to life through her art. Continued …

The 20 Best Thai Beef Recipes

Are you tired of cooking the same old dishes for dinner? Have you ever wanted to explore the rich flavors of Thai cuisine but felt intimidated by the complexity of the recipes? Well, fret no more, fellow home cooks!

Today, I am going to take you on an exciting culinary journey through the vibrant and aromatic world of Thai beef recipes. Continued …

Kissing Cave’s romantic silhouettes captivate tourists in Prachuap Khiri Khan

Embark on an enchanting boat ride through the gorges of Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park, where nature unveils a captivating sight of rocks resembling a kissing couple during sunset.

The “Kissing Mountain Cave”, nestled in the national park in Prachuap Khiri Khan province, offers a unique spectacle. As the sun sets, tourists can witness the rocks transform into a dark silhouette, creating the illusion of two people locked in a tender kiss. Continued … 

3 easy and delicious Thai recipes

The cuisine of Thailand effortlessly lures food lovers with its aroma. Its rich and creamy curries, fragrant sauces, flavorful snacks and sinful sweets are bound to make you go back to indulging in them, time and again.

According to experts, the key to cooking any Thai dish lies in balancing the five key flavors – sour, bitter, salty, sweet and spicy, which takes skill to master. Continued …

US Steel to be acquired by Japan’s Nippon Steel for nearly $15 billion

Nippon Steel Corp., the largest steelmaker in Japan, is acquiring the United States Steel Corp. for almost $15 billion, the two companies announced Monday. Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

Hua Hin train schedule

To book online

 

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, immigration, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai environment, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism, transportation

Thursday’s news-Nov 30

1 Comment

Today’s news: Christmas in Hua Hin/Price of electricity to rise/Fire at Hua Hin university/Improving Thais’ English proficiency/Thai berry pickers in Finland/Lisa poised to hit record-breaking per-post earnings/PM2.5 haze in Bangkok/Man Selling tiger carcasses Online/Water, soil management under fire/’Hostages would be in grave danger’/Economy: GDP Forecast To Rise 3.8%/Herbal market worth skyrockets/B2B e-commerce trends/Domestic industries suffer from cheap imports/Shrimp exports to surge by 10%/Price war as Chinese EVs flood in/Mega checkpoint for trade and tourism/Tourism: Beverage tax restructure to boost tourism/Laos railway a boon/26 Chinese tourists arrested/Graffiti Art Draws Tourists/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

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Christmas in Hua Hin

From themed menus to stunning spaces, there are plenty of hotels, restaurants, bars and pubs pulling out all the stops to ensure you have a Christmas celebration to remember.

Whether you’re in the mood for a full-on Christmas feast complete with turkey and all the trimmings, or something entirely different but equally delicious, this guide will help you every step of the way. Continued …

Price of electricity from January-April to rise

The Energy Regulatory Commission of Thailand has set new electricity charges, ranging from 4.68 baht to 5.95 baht/unit from January until April, 2024. The price from September until December this year has been 3.99 baht/unit.

The commission approved an 89.55 satang/unit fuel tariff (FT) for the January-April period, which will raise the price of electricity to an average of 69.07 satang/unit. When adding in the power base rate of 3.78 baht/unit, the new price of electricity will average 4.68 baht/unit, excluding VAT. Continued …

Fire at a Hua Hin university causes Bt3M in damage

A fire ripped through a building of a university in Prachuap Khiri Khan’s Hua Hin district yesterday afternoon, destroying computers and other property.

The damage is estimated at about Bt3 million. No one is reported to have been injured. Witnesses said the blaze started on the roof of a building in the Rajamangala University of Technology Rattanakosin’s Wang Klai Kangwon campus. Continued …

Education Ministry assigned to take urgent steps to improve Thais’ English proficiency

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has ordered the Education Ministry to come up with measures rapidly to improve English proficiency among Thai people, students in particular, after Thailand’s very poor ranking on the global Education First (EF) English Proficiency Index 2023.

EF ranks 113 countries, where English is not the first language, based on scores in 2.2 million Education First standardized English tests taken in 2022. At the top of the list is the Netherlands, with an average score of 647 out of 800, followed by Singapore (631), while Denmark, scoring 615, and Norway, with 614, swapped places at fourth and fifth place. Continued …

Large human trafficking case involving Thai berry pickers in Finland

Finnish authorities have wrapped up an investigation into a human trafficking and bribery scandal. The case involves Thai berry pickers who worked in Finland from 2020 to 2022.

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) suspects five individuals linked to berry companies for aggravated human trafficking. The investigating officers say they have spoken to about 170 Thai nationals in Finland who they believe to be victims of human trafficking. The investigation is still ongoing in Thailand. Continued … 

Lisa poised to hit 100M Instagram followers – and record-breaking per-post earnings

With Blackpink’s Lisa poised to become the first K-pop star to hit 100 million Instagram followers, the true impact of her social media presence is in the spotlight.

Lalisa Manoban, widely known as Lisa, stands as a global icon and pivotal member of the internationally renowned South Korean girl group. Continued …

PM2.5 haze rises above safe threshold in Bangkok

PM2.5 air pollution rose above the safe level in many areas of Bangkok on Wednesday as the fine-dust haze collected in stagnant air.

Levels of PM2.5 in the capital ranged from 28.9 to 56.2 micrograms per cubic meter, according to the Bangkok Air Quality Information Center of Bangkok. Levels above 37.5µg/m3 are categorized as “Orange Zone”, or potentially impacting health. Continued …

US Helps Thais Catch Man Selling Tiger Carcasses Online

More than 500 carcasses, including leopard carcasses, black panther carcasses, clouded leopard carcasses, and Asian golden cat carcasses, were found and seized at a house in Ban Chang subdistrict, Mueang District, Pathum Thani Province, yesterday.

Police officers from the Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Suppression Division, along with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service officers and Thailand’s Department of National Park, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation, arrested MKan Panyayong, 41, a resident of Phrae province, on charges of “trafficking and possession of protected wildlife without permission.” Continued …

 

Water, soil management under fire in Asia Pacific

Here, in the world’s most populous region, there is a crisis slowly unfolding that involves the earth beneath our feet. The soil that has been producing the food we eat and supporting the livelihoods of millions of farmers and others is under threat.

Often referred to as the “Skin of the Earth,” soil acts as a silent steward, supporting the production of 95% of the food we eat in this region. It retains water, serves as a habitat for animals, and plays a key role in regulating our climate by storing more carbon than all the world’s forests combined. Continued …

‘If we did like in the movies, the hostages would be in grave danger’

On Tuesday night, two Thai workers recently released from captivity in Gaza by Hamas arrived at a hospital in Be’er Ya’akov, Israel, to join 17 other farm workers. As soon as they saw each other, they all huddled up into an embrace. “We survived! we survived!” they cheered, as one was seen wiping away tears.

The release of the Thai hostages on Nov. 24, the first day of the Israeli-Hamas ceasefire, came as a surprise to many. It came through a vigorous push by the Thai Foreign Ministry, said its minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara, and a lot of behind-the-scenes talks with various counterparts from the Middle Eastern countries who can communicate with the Islamist militant group that occupies Gaza. Continued …

GDP Forecast To Rise 3.8%, Partly Due To Digital Wallet Campaign

Thailand’s gross domestic product (GDP) is forecast to rise 3.8% next year, partly due to the Pheu Thai-initiated digital wallet campaign, the Bank of Thailand’s Assistant Gov. Piti Disyatat said Wednesday.

Without the much-heralded digital wallet project, under which a sum of 500 billion baht will be spent up by an estimated 50 million people in a six-month period, the GDP would only rise 3.2% next year, according to the central bank’s assistant governor. Continued … 

Thailand’s herbal market worth skyrockets

Minister of Health Santi Prompat yesterday highlighted the significant growth in the market for Thai massage and food as a form of soft power for the nation. He also emphasized the rising value of herbal consumption, which has increased to 90,000 billion baht (Editor: this number doesn’t sound right but it is what was published), making Thailand the third highest in Asia.

Thailand’s unique wisdom in traditional Thai medicine and herbs can drive health tourism by blending well with modern medicine, clearly driving health economy policies. This was evident during the Covid-19 situation, as people became more interested in health, Thai food, and herbs. Continued …

Unveiling 2024 B2B e-commerce trends in a dynamic world

In an era marked by ongoing digital transformation, business-to-business (B2B) companies find themselves in need of adapting to the rapid shift.

The landscape is evolving swiftly, driven by the unyielding force of digital disruption, the millennial workforce, shift in purchase behaviors, hyper-personalization and so on. Strategic foresight is important for B2B companies to overcome challenges, thrive and gain a competitive edge in a dynamic world. Continued …

FTI seeks urgent action as domestic industries suffer from cheap imports

Many domestic industrial groups are struggling to survive as cheaper, substandard imported goods were flooding the market, the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) said.

These imported goods were often falsely labeled, fake and/or substandard, and clandestinely brought in and sold at prices 10%-20% cheaper than the domestic counterparts, the FTI said. Continued …

Thailand’s shrimp exports forecast to surge by 10% next year

A 10% surge in Thailand’s shrimp exports is on the horizon for the upcoming year, brought about by a minor uptick in local shrimp production and bolstered demand primarily from the United States.

Thai Shrimp Assn. President Ekapoj Yodpinit disclosed that shrimp production in Thailand this year mirrored the previous year’s figure of 280,000 tons. Meanwhile, the country’s shrimp exports for this year are estimated to stand at approximately 120,000 tons, priced at 50 billion baht (US$1,436,493,500). Continued …

Thai auto market anticipates price war as Chinese EVs flood in

The Thai auto market is bracing for a potential price war, as the influx of affordable electric vehicles (EVs), mainly from China, threatens the traditional dominance of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.

Over the next few years, the competition is set to escalate, as two to three Chinese automakers plan to roll out their EVs in Thailand, capitalizing on the government’s investment incentive policy, according to Ratthakarn Jutasen, managing director of Ford Thailand. Continued …

Thai and Malaysian prime ministers unveil mega checkpoint for trade and tourism

Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and his Malaysian counterpart Anwar Ibrahim orchestrated a historic agreement this week, with plans to improve border trade through the new Sadao checkpoint in Songkhla province.

The leaders converged at the customs office of the newly minted Sadao border checkpoint on Nov. 27, with both governments pledging to turbocharge road access to the Thai side of the border. The move aims to propel cross-border trade and travel, rendering the obsolete old Sadao checkpoint an inconvenience of the past. Continued …

Thai finance ministry considers beverage tax restructure to boost tourism

A proposed restructuring of the beverage tax framework is under consideration by the Finance Ministry, as revealed by the permanent finance secretary, Lavaron Sangsnit. The restructure aims to bolster tourism and domestic spending.

Tomorrow, Lavaron plans to engage in a discussion with officials from the Customs Department and the Excise Department. The proposed measures align with Thai governmental policies aimed at boosting consumption and tourism. Continued …

Laos railway a boon for overland travel by Chinese

The number of Chinese crossing to Thailand overland is expected to exceed 300,000 next year, thanks to the China-Laos railway that should increase the tally, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT.

Chuwit Sirivejkul, TAT regional director of marketing for East Asia, said this segment of Chinese tourists can add volume to second-tier cities in the northeast. Continued …

26 Chinese tourists arrested in raid on secret casino in Nonthaburi

Immigration police raided a hotel in Nonthaburi province, which was modified as a casino to cater to Chinese tourists, and nabbed 26 alleged gamblers on Wednesday morning.

Acting on a tip-off, the immigration police obtained a warrant for searching the eighth and ninth floors of a hotel in Ngam Wong Wan. Apart from the 26 alleged gamblers, the immigration police arrested 23 Thai staff. Continued …

Vibrant Graffiti Art Selfies Draw Tourists to Nakhon Ratchasima

Tourists flocked to capture vibrant graffiti art selfies along the mural-lined streets of Nakhon Ratchasima, showcasing the skills of over 30 graffiti artists from across the country.

This artistic spectacle, spanning the longest stretch in the Isaan region, unfolded near the Nakhon Chai Transport tour bus depot on Chaiyaphum Road in the city center of Nakhon Ratchasima. Continued …

Five elections in 2024 that will shape the global order

Could Donald Trump make a comeback? Will anyone in Russia challenge another six years for Vladimir Putin? With half the world heading to the polls in 2024, and some 30 countries electing a president, here are five key elections to watch. Continued …

Study reveals world’s most expensive cities

Singapore and Zurich tied for the world’s most expensive city this year, followed by Geneva, New York and Hong Kong, the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) said on Thursday, as it cautioned that the global cost-of-living crisis was not yet over. Continued …

Stagnant world economy to lower oil prices next year

Dubai crude oil reference prices are expected to fall to US$83-85 per barrel next year based on slow global economic growth, says Phichin Aphiwantanaporn, senior executive vice president of IRPC Plc, the petrochemical arm of Thailand oil and gas conglomerate PTT Plc. Continued …

President Of UN Climate Summit Planned For Oil And Gas Deals Behind The Scenes

The president of the United Nations’ annual climate summit planned to use the talks to lobby dozens of countries and business leaders to increase exports of oil and gas, according to leaked documents obtained by media outlets this week. Continued …

Henry Kissinger, singular US diplomat, dead at 100

Henry Kissinger, the former United States secretary of state, whose unapologetic promotion of raw American power helped shape the post-World War II world, died Wednesday at the age of 100, his consulting firm said. Continued …

Bus Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

 

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
hua hin, immigration, prauchuap khiri khan, thai economy, thai environment, thailand, tourism, transportation

Saturday’s news-Sept 16

Today’s news: Reader Feedback/Tourist survey for Hua Hin flights/Online platform for foreign tenant registration/Sex, drugs and bid-riggingChonburi ‘Green Sea’/Crop burning shortening life expectancy/Teachers Slams Free Tablet SchemeThai flag third most commonly misidentified/Minimum wage hike/New challenges emerge/Thailand’s airlines resist price war/Scams on Chinese Tourists Return/Myanmar: US dollars and insurance needed/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

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“Hi. Been reading Hua Hin Expat News for over a year. Very enjoyable to read and following your topics. I live in Los Angeles County, California, and there are over 250,000-plus expat Thai’s living here. There was a time when a Thai Airline used to fly direct to Los Angeles. It was wonderful, just a little over 13 hours flight time. Does anyone know when Thailand might have an airline to fly direct to Los Angeles?” – Bob

Are you a tourist? Then have your say about Hua Hin flights

Prachuap Khiri Khan officials are asking tourists, Thai and foreign, to participate in a survey regarding potential new flight routes to and from Hua Hin Airport. The goal of the anonymous survey, according to the officials, is to tailor transportation development, particularly in aviation, to meet the exact needs and preferences of tourists.

Expat News has viewed the survey and it is meant only for tourists, not local Thai and foreign residents. It asks only about travel preferences within Thailand. International flights to and from Hua Hin are not mentioned. The survey

Thailand launches online platform for foreign tenant registration

Immigration has called for property owners and managers across Thailand to register for the new online notification platform for foreign tenants. This system, which became operational yesterday, replaces the previous one.

This digital registration demands the submission of pertinent documents, but immigration officials have guaranteed that the approval process will be automatic. They further stipulated that property owners previously registered on the old system would need to re-register on the new platform. Continued …

Sex, drugs and bid-rigging: How ‘influential figures’ thrive in Thailand

The murder of a highway police officer at the residence of Praween Chankhlai, also known as “Kamnan Nok” – an influential figure in Nakhon Pathom province – has raised questions about how ‘influential figures’ make fortunes in Thailand – and get away with it.

The tragic event that triggered a national discussion occurred at a birthday party on the night of Sept. 6 when highway police officer Major Siwakorn Saibua was shot dead. Continued …

Chonburi ‘Green Sea’ Raises Concerns, Lasting Until End of October

The marine environment in Chonburi is in serious trouble, according Dr. Thon, an acclaimed specialist in marine and environmental matters, who is sounding the alarm about the continuous occurrence of the “green sea” phenomenon.

This crisis has now transformed the region into an area where marine organisms are perishing in significant numbers, rendering it off-limits. This critical condition is projected to endure until the conclusion of October. Continued …

Crop burning shortening average life expectancy

Air pollution, notably PM2.5 fine dust, caused by the burning of plantations, especially sugarcane, affects around 44 million people in Thailand every year, the Industry Ministry reported on Thursday.

PM2.5 refers to dust particles 2.5 micrometers or less in diameter, long-term exposure to which is linked with chronic diseases, including lung and heart problems. Continued …

Teachers Slam Free Tablet Scheme, Want More Teachers Hired

Just as Education Minister Permpoon Chidchob moved to relaunch the Yingluck Shinawatra government’s project of distributing free tablet computers to all students and teachers nationwide, a large number of teachers pointed out that this scheme was not that effective when carried out almost a decade ago and it would be better to use the budget to hire more teaching staff.

Permpoon, from Bhumjaithai Party, announced the revival of this project when outlining his “Study Well, Be Happy” policy to officials at this ministry with this being divided into two parts – education for excellence and education for stability of life. Continued …

Thai flag ranks as the third most commonly misidentified flag

With hundreds of countries across the globe, it’s not surprising that there is some overlap in color scheme and design. But how well can travelers identify the different flags?

Flags are an important symbol of national identity, and they can be a source of pride for many people. But how well do we know their flags? To find out, tailor-made holidaymaker Travelbag asked 2,000 adults to name which country a selection of flags from around the world represented. Continued …

Labor minister promises minimum wage hike as New Year’s gift

Labor Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn promised on Friday that the minimum daily wage would be raised by November as a “New Year’s present” for Thai workers.

“The minimum daily wage would definitely be hiked within this year. The proposal would be submitted for the Cabinet’s consideration on September 25 so that the new wages could be announced within November, in time to become a New Year’s present for Thais,” Phiphat said. Continued …

New challenges emerge as Thailand’s population continues to age

Thailand’s elderly population is projected to reach 20.4 million people in 2040, accounting for 31.3% of the total population, according to the director of the Commerce Ministry’s Trade Policy and Strategy Office, Poonpong Nainapakorn.

The transition to an aging society began in 2021 when there were 13.8 million elderly Thais, representing 20% of the total population, Poonpong said. Continued …

Thailand’s airlines resist price war, as operational costs rise

In light of escalating operational costs, Thailand’s airlines are unlikely to trigger a new price war, while the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) intends to retain the existing ceiling for ticket prices. This information was shared by Suttipong Kongpool, the CAAT director, during a seminar co-hosted by the Airlines Association of Thailand (AAT) and CAAT this week.

Suttipong indicated that with jet fuel prices, a significant component accounting for 30%-40% of operational costs, not expected to rise beyond US$120 per barrel in the near term, the regulated ceiling price would remain unchanged for at least three years. Continued …

As Chinese Tourists Return to Thailand, So Do Scams Targeting Them

As Chinese tourists return to Thailand after the pandemic curtailed travel, so are the scams that Thai authorities worry will taint the country’s reputation even if most of the victims and perpetrators appear to be Chinese.

Deputy Police Chief Surachate Hakparn said at a news conference last month that 18 Chinese were charged with fraud for allegedly selling overpriced, supposedly holy, amulets to Chinese tourists visiting Khao Chi Chan temple in Chonburi province. Continued …

Myanmar: US dollars and insurance needed for entry

According to the Royal Thai Embassy in Yangon, Myanmar has announced that it will randomly inspect foreign tourists on arrival. U.S. dollars in cash and medical insurance are required for entry.

The embassy reported that the Burmese authorities urged foreigners entering the country for less than 14 days to prepare for a random inspection upon arrival. Continued …

US auto workers target Detroit Three plants for historic strike

About 13,000 U.S. auto workers stopped making vehicles and went on strike Friday after their leaders couldn’t bridge a giant gap between union demands in contract talks and what Detroit’s three automakers are willing to pay. Continued … 

Aid groups sound alarm in Libya as hopes dwindle for survivors

Aid groups have warned of growing risk posed by the spread of disease that could compound the humanitarian crisis in Libya, as hopes of finding more survivors fade days after deadly flooding. Continued …

Blackpink’s Lisa rejects $37.6-million contract

The YG Entertainment stock in South Korea dropped by nearly 9% yesterday after reports in South Korean media stated that Lisa Blackpink of the K-Pop girl group BLACKPINK has rejected a contract renewal offer from the agency. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 11am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 5:10pm, and 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm, 5pm, and 6:30pm

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

The VIP bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has a new Cha Am boarding location in front of Government Savings Bank.

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has once-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and departing from Pattaya at 8am. Tickets are 473 THB.

Tickets can be bought in person at the Hua Hin bus station or online. Buses depart from the Hua Hin bus station and in front of Government Savings Bank, Cha Am.. Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

Book a flight

 

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
climate change, hua hin, medical tourism, phuket, thai economy, thai environment, thai food, thai wildlife, thailand, tourism

Wednesday’s news-June 7

“Timing has a lot to do with the outcome of a rain dance.”

  • Thailand and SE Asia ‘caught off guard’ by record heatwave/
  • Hidden cameras at Monsoon Valley Vineyard showcase a wide variety of animals/
  • Heavy rainfall to hit 54 provinces, Bangkok at risk of flash floods/
  • Public healthcare system facing doctor shortage, workload concerns/
  • Alleged cyanide serial killer faces highest number of charges in Thai history/
  • Abandoned Dog Has Been Waiting for Her Owner for 2 Months/
  • Economy: Sluggish commodity prices positive for core inflation/Government addresses agricultural sector climate risk/How climate-smart techniques are giving Thailand’s farms a boost/TPIPP to phase out coal-fired power generation by 2026/
  • Tourism: Lisa puts Ayutthaya back on radar for TAT/Phuket: The Epicenter of Tourism Politics in Thailand/
  • Thailand Experience: Expat News visits Phetchaburi wildlife rescue foundation/An exotic culinary journey featuring Thai rice/10 delicious Thai dishes you should try that aren’t pad Thai/
  • International: World Bank revises global economic growth forecast/Wheat Prices Jump Following Bombing Of Major Dam In Southern Ukraine/10 billion global population unsustainable, says climate envoy Kerry/Arctic could be ice-free a decade earlier than thought/PGA Tour and LIV Golf merge to end golf’s ‘civil war’/
  • 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

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Thailand and SE Asia ‘caught off guard’ by record heatwave

Millions of Vietnamese workers, including drivers, street vendors, cleaners, builders, and farmers, who form the backbone of society, have been disproportionately impacted by the recent extreme heat wave in Southeast Asia. This region experienced its most severe heat wave on record, causing detrimental effects on the health and livelihoods of these individuals.

Typically, April and May are known as the hottest months in Southeast Asia, with temperatures rising before the monsoon rains provide some relief. However, this year witnessed unprecedented heat levels across the region, even in popular tourist destinations such as Thailand and Vietnam. Continued …

Hidden cameras at Monsoon Valley Vineyard showcase a wide variety of animals

A yellow-throated marten striking a pose. Click. A bird of prey spreading its wings. Click. A masked palm civet exploring under the cover of darkness. Click.

Hidden camera traps installed around Monsoon Valley vineyard near Hua Hin have revealed an abundance of wildlife. Continued …

Heavy rainfall to hit 54 provinces, Bangkok at risk of flash floods

Heavy rainfall and floods are expected to hit 54 provinces in Thailand, with a 70% chance of precipitation across the country, according to the Meteorological Department. Bangkok could face flash floods, while increased wave heights are predicted for the Andaman Sea today.

The Meteorological Department’s 24-hour forecast predicts heavy rainfall and thunderstorms due to a trough of a low-pressure area over the South China Sea, combined with a strong southwest monsoon covering the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand. Continued …

Public healthcare system facing doctor shortage, workload concerns

The Public Health Ministry has taken a close look at the reported shortage of physicians and the reasons behind the heavy workload of personnel in an attempt to improve conditions for all involved in the country’s healthcare system, including ensuring they enjoy a good work-life balance in the future.

Deputy Minister Dr. Taweesin Visanuyothin noted that the shortage of personnel is across all healthcare professions, including physicians, nurses and radiologists. Continued …

Alleged cyanide serial killer faces highest number of charges in Thai history

The alleged Thai cyanide serial killer, Sararat “Am” Rangsiwuthaporn, faces 80 charges for the murders of 14 victims and the attempted murder of one surviving victim. This makes her the criminal with the highest number of charges in Thai history.

The deputy commissioner of the Royal Thai Police (RTP), Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn, today confirmed that the number of victims of the cyanide killer is 15, with 14 of them tragically losing their lives due to poisoning. Continued … 

Abandoned Dog Has Been Waiting for Her Owner for 2 Months

An online social media account posted texts and pictures searching for the owner of a dog in Uthai Thani Province, 200 kilometers north of Bangkok.

The caption reads: “She has been waiting for 2 months for the owner to pick her up. The owner is her whole world. She’s been standing here all day for 2 months and not going anywhere. She is waiting. I am not sure if she was abandoned or fell out of the car. She is on the roadside of Ban Khao Pha Rad, Nam Rop subdistrict, Lan Sak district, Uthai Thani.” Continued …

Sluggish commodity prices positive for core inflation

The Ministry of Commerce said the domestic general inflation rate for May increased by only 0.53% year-on-year, the lowest level in the past 21 months, due to sluggish prices of petroleum, electricity, and food products. This figure is much lower than the 2.7% figure the financial market projected for May of this year.

According to Wichanun Niwatjinda, deputy director-general of the Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO), the main reasons for this relatively low inflation rate are slow-moving prices of petroleum, electricity, and food products, combined with the low base price used for calculating the inflation rate in May. Continued …

Government addresses agricultural sector climate risk

The government has approved the draft of a financial instrument exchange program aimed at adapting to climate-change risks, particularly in the agricultural sector in the ASEAN region, as part of the moves toward environmental sustainability.

Resolutions related to environmental cooperation and adaptation to climate change, particularly in the agricultural sector, were approved at the Cabinet meeting on June 6, along with the exchange of a draft agreement concerning the implementation of the Innovative Climate-Risk Financing for the Agricultural Sector in the ASEAN Region (ICRFAAR) project. Continued …

How climate-smart techniques are giving Thailand’s farms a boost

Rain machines, water canals, and laser-leveling are some of the methods being adopted in Thailand in an effort to ensure the country has a more sustainable agricultural supply chain amid the global food crisis.

Triggered by climate change, conflict, and the COVID-19 pandemic, food agencies are warning that as many as 828 million people are now food insecure and that over 10 times more people are living in famine-like conditions compared to five years ago. Continued …

TPIPP to phase out coal-fired power generation by 2026

TPI Polene Power Plc (TPIPP), a leading waste-to-energy project developer and operator in Thailand, is set to continue its five-year capital expenditure plan of 14 billion baht. The plan, which began last year, aims to replace coal usage with renewable energy sources and increase the company’s power-generation capacity.

TPIPP has earmarked 3 billion baht for projects focused on reducing coal imports and eliminating coal-fired power generation by 2026, according to Worawit Lerdbussarakam, the company’s vice president. In 2021, coal accounted for half of the total electricity generation of 440 megawatts. By 2024, coal usage is projected to decrease by 30% to 150MW of the new total capacity of 502MW. Continued …

Lisa puts Ayutthaya back on radar for TAT

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has jumped at the chance to promote tourism in Ayutthaya after Lalisa “Lisa” Manoban from the South Korean girl group Blackpink, posted photos while visiting the old city of the World Heritage site on her Instagram account on Monday.

The starlet’s IG account (@lalalalisa_m) has 94.5 million followers. She visited several ruins and temples in Ayutthaya after the Blackpink World Tour Bangkok gigs on the last weekend of May. During her trip with close friends, they donned traditional dress, short-sleeve blouses and indigo tie-dyed, mud-fermented woven, a long fabric wrapped around the waist like a skirt. Continued …

Phuket: The Epicenter of Tourism Politics in Thailand

Tourism on Thailand’s most popular island has bounced back since the pandemic. Now, proposed visitor taxes and uncertainty around cannabis use are placing tourism high on the political agenda.

Almost two years have passed since Thailand’s then Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha personally greeted tourists arriving at Phuket International Airport. On July 1, 2021, during the dark days of Covid-19, he launched the Phuket Sandbox, the first coordinated attempt to rebirth tourism in Southeast Asia. Continued …

Expat News visits Phetchaburi wildlife rescue foundation

We had the opportunity to tour the Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand facility in Phetchaburi recently. More about the foundation HERE.

WFFT currently houses more than 800 animals in 70 different species, including a cougar from Canada and a chimpanzee from Africa. The facility is huge, with concrete construction and metal cages prominent throughout, and extensive new construction underway.

They need the space, as they expect to add as many as 20 tigers and 20 leopards to the mix after a camp in northern Thailand closed. WFFT currently has 4 tigers and no leopards.

The tour provides excellent information on the animals and the facility; however, the tour does not use Thai translators, so Thais not knowing English gain zero knowledge from the visit. There also are no signs in Thai.

WFFT provides transport from Hua Hin for those interested. For tour information.

An exotic culinary journey featuring Thai rice

When one talks about Thai rice, the spotlight is not only on Hom Mali or Jasmine rice. Thailand’s fertile and abundant land has given the country’s rice a global reputation. Thailand is currently the second largest rice exporter, lending credence to its claims to be the “The kitchen of the world”.

Across the country, from the North down to the South, rice is a staple crop and plays an important role in the Thai cultural and gastronomical heritage. Continued …

10 delicious Thai dishes you should try that aren’t pad Thai

Thai food is known for its variety of signature ingredients, like lemongrass, ginger, lime, chili, garlic, pandan leaves, and coconut milk, which create distinctive combinations of sweet, salty, and spicy flavors.

While stir-fried noodle specialty pad Thai — undoubtedly delicious — is one of Thai cuisine’s most famous dishes, there’s so much more to try. In fact, did you know that Thailand is home to four distinct regional cuisines? Continued …

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World Bank revises global economic growth forecast

A new World Bank report looking at global economic trends adjusts the projected expansion of the global economy this year to 2.1%, higher than the previously forecast figure of 1.7% in January but lower than the growth rate in 2022 of 3.1%. Continued … 

Wheat Prices Jump Following Bombing Of Major Dam In Southern Ukraine

The bombing of a major dam in southern Ukraine sent global prices of wheat and corn higher early on Tuesday. Wheat prices gained 2.4% in early trading on Tuesday at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, to $6.39 a bushel. The cost of corn rose more than 1% (to $6.04 a bushel) and oats gained 0.73% ($3.46 per unit). Continued …

10 billion global population unsustainable, says climate envoy Kerry

U.S. special climate envoy John Kerry told AFP that the world’s population will not be tenable in 2050, when it is projected to hit nearly 10 billion, but refrained from asking Americans to give up steaks. Continued …

Arctic could be ice-free a decade earlier than thought

The Arctic Ocean’s ice cap will disappear in summer as soon as the 2030s and a decade earlier than thought, no matter how aggressively humanity draws down the carbon pollution that drives global warming, scientists said yesterday. Continued …

PGA Tour and LIV Golf merge to end golf’s ‘civil war’

The PGA Tour and DP World Tour announced on Tuesday that they have merged their commercial operations with the Saudi-backed LIV Golf and ended all litigation, bringing to a close the sport’s bitter two-year rift. Continued …

Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

  • Leaving Hua Hin: 6am, 8am, 10am, 11am, 12:00, 2pm, 4pm, 5:10pm, 6pm
  • Leaving Suvarnabhumi: 7:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:00, 1pm, 2:30pm, 4pm, 5pm, 6:30pm

The one-way fare is 325 baht.

The VIP bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has a new Cha Am boarding location in front of Government Savings Bank.

UPDATED: Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, leaving Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departing from Pattaya at 8am and 4pm. Tickets are 473 THB.

Tickets can be bought in person at the Hua Hin bus station or online. Buses depart from the Hua Hin bus station and in front of Government Savings Bank, Cha Am.. Tickets 

Hua Hin-Chaing Mai flight schedule through October

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