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Thursday’s news-Oct 22

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  • Hua Hin beachfront land hits 160 million baht a rai/Hair Therapy for Hair Loss/Raids target Pattaya nominees /Aussie job scam hits Thais/One trip, no more than 45 baht?/Loan to upgrade five Thai public hospitals/Make Longer Lives Better Lives
  • ECONOMY: Warning over $200 diesel price crisis/Measures to rescue Oil Fuel Fund/Google defends its data centers/Thailand in Chinese expansion plans/Thailand urged to focus on chipmaking/Nestlé breaks ground on coffee factory/Thai rice exports fall
  • TOURISM: Forum highlights local Thai cuisine/Ministry advises against travel to Europe/Phuket visitors bring in nearly 400 billion baht
  • THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Khao Sok: Living beneath an ancient landscape/Insider Guide for Thailand’s Best Meals/Why you should visit Thailand’s heritage-rich coastal towns
  • CLIMATE THAILAND: Chiang Mai unveils Thailand’s first electric tram/World losing ground on climate
  • IRAN WAR: US orders some diplomats out of Saudi Arabia/High oil prices permeate daily life
  • FOREIGNERS BEHAVING BADLY/INTERNATIONAL/HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS 

Easier travel lifts Hua Hin property prospects as beachfront land hits 160 million baht a rai

Uthai Uthaisangsuk, president of Sansiri Public Co., sees improving travel from Bangkok supporting a recovery in Hua Hin’s property market, where he puts beachfront land prices at 160 million baht per rai. Uthai’s assessment follows a prolonged slowdown after the Covid-19 pandemic. Better transport connections and infrastructure development are beginning to restore confidence, although the recovery remains uneven.

Large beachfront plots of five to nine rai are increasingly difficult to find in Hua Hin, according to Uthai. Many remain in the hands of families that have owned them for generations and face no pressure to sell. Continued … 

Hair Therapy for Hair Loss: What to Check Before You Commit to a Program

Most people notice thinning hair long before they do anything about it, and when they finally act, the first move is usually a trip to the pharmacy for a shampoo or serum that promises the fastest results.

The problem is that none of those products can tell you why your hair is thinning in the first place. Genetics is the usual suspect, but hormones, prolonged stress and scalp inflammation all play a part, and nothing off the shelf is built to work out which one is actually driving your case. Continued … 

Chonburi raids target Pattaya nominee addresses

Chonburi police and land officials searched 12 properties in the Pattaya area yesterday as part of an investigation into suspected foreign nominee ownership of land and buildings worth more than 800 million baht.

The early-morning operation in Banglamung district identified 12 companies, 11 houses and 16 land plots covering around 50 rai. Authorities said 85 people from eight nationalities are under investigation. Continued … 

Aussie job scam hits Thais

Victims of an alleged Australian job scam have filed a complaint with the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Division, seeking an urgent investigation into losses exceeding 10 million baht.

Tankhun Jitt-itsara, accompanied by the BSJ Law Firm legal team, brought the victims to the Central Investigation Bureau on Tuesday to submit evidence against a network accused of recruiting Thai workers via social media. Continued … 

One trip, no more than 45 baht? Bangkok rail plan heads to Cabinet

The Transport Ministry will seek Cabinet approval on Oct. 26 for a unified fare scheme covering eight electric rail lines in Bangkok and surrounding areas, with fares capped at 45 baht per trip, a deputy transport minister said yesterday.

Siripong Angkasakulkiat, deputy transport minister said the proposal would eliminate duplicate entry fees when passengers transfer between lines, with an initial fare capped at 17 baht. The scheme is scheduled to begin on Jan. 1 and would be available to Thai nationals who register through the Paotang application and pay using EMV contactless cards. Continued … 

ADB approves $212-million loan to upgrade five Thai public hospitals

The Asian Development Bank is providing $212 million to upgrade five public hospitals and improve access to specialist medical care for about 14 million people living outside Bangkok.

It marks the bank’s first health-sector loan to the Thai government, building on earlier support for the country’s COVID-19 response and regional health initiatives. Plans for the project include the expansion of cancer, cardiac, surgical, and trauma services across five health regions. Continued … 

Thailand Sets Out Plan to Make Longer Lives Better Lives

Thailand is committing to build a sustainable longevity society in which people live not merely longer but better, a senior health official told a Bangkok forum on Tuesday.

Dr. Ekachai Piensriwatchara, deputy permanent secretary of the Ministry of Public Health, said the ministry would pursue an action plan over the next five years, built on integrated primary care, long-term care and a larger care workforce, to support a fast-aging society. Continued … 

Warning over $200 diesel price crisis

Analysts predict diesel prices could surge to $200 per barrel due to worsening supply disruptions in the Middle East. This potential crisis is driven by a new wave of geopolitical conflicts that have thrown the global energy market into turmoil.

Specific factors contributing to this volatility include attacks by Yemen-based Houthis on Saudi energy infrastructure and disruptions in the Red Sea, which force tankers to take longer, more expensive routes around Africa. Additionally, ongoing conflicts between Iran and Israel, alongside the war in Ukraine, continue to threaten global supply chains and refinery capacities. Experts note that if these geopolitical tensions persist, they could drive prices to unprecedented levels, complicating global inflation outlooks and placing significant strain on national energy funds like Thailand’s Oil Fuel Fund. – Bangkok Post AI

Five measures proposed to rescue Thailand’s Oil Fuel Fund

Energy Minister Akanat Promphan has been presented with five urgent proposals, including fuel excise tax cuts of 1–2 baht a liter, to shore up Thailand’s Oil Fuel Fund before further borrowing is considered.

The Oil Fuel Fund’s deficit stood at 103.561 billion baht as of Oct. 18. This comprised a 62.359-billion-baht deficit in its oil account and a 41.202-billion-baht deficit in its liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) account. Continued … 

Google insists its data centers do not compete for water and electricity resources

Data centers are a new industry attracting significant investment in Thailand, but they are also under public scrutiny. It’s well known that data centers consume vast amounts of resources, including electricity and clean water, and also release heat and generate noise pollution, causing concern for communities located near them.

Brian Yu, senior vice president of global infrastructure at Google for the Asia Pacific region, was interviewed regarding efforts to understand and alleviate public concerns, as well as the use of resources at Google’s data center currently under construction in the WHA Industrial Estate, Nong Yai District, Chonburi Province. Continued … 

Why more Chinese firms have Thailand in their expansion plans

With domestic profits narrowing and production capacity expanding, China’s firms are continuing to widen their overseas footprints in search of new, more lucrative markets. In this series, we examine China Inc’s next phase of “going global” and the complex, challenging international environment its companies have chosen to enter.

A subtle shift is taking place among Chinese businesses as they adopt a “China plus one” outlook and redirect domestic investments to neighboring economies – a strategy largely designed as a hedge against tariffs and geopolitical risks. Continued … 

Thailand urged to focus on chipmaking

JPMorgan Chase executives suggest that Thailand should prioritize the production of advanced products such as chips and electronic components. This focus would allow the country to capitalize on the ongoing global supply chain shift and the emergence of power from artificial intelligence.

Executives emphasize that focusing on these high-tech areas could provide a longer manufacturing lifespan for Thailand compared to chasing cutting-edge chip production seen in Taiwan or South Korea. They also note that for these investments to have a significant long-term economic impact, the country needs to maintain government stability and ensure a consistent direction for investors. – Bangkok Post AI

Nestlé breaks ground on US$685 million coffee factory in Thailand

Nestlé has begun construction of a 23-billion-baht (US$685 million) coffee manufacturing facility in Samut Prakan, with the factory expected to begin operations in late 2028 and create more than 500 jobs.

The facility will produce soluble coffee, coffee mixes and ready-to-drink coffee beverages, using advanced production technologies, artificial intelligence (AI), robotics and automated systems. Continued … 

Thai rice exports fall as India and Pakistan compete

Thailand exported 4.99 million tons of rice in the first nine months of 2026, down 19.3% year-on-year, as stronger competition from India and Pakistan and a sharp fall in Iraqi demand weighed on sales.

Export value between January and September fell 16.8% to US$2.962 billion, according to figures discussed by the Commerce Ministry and the Thai Rice Exporters Assn. Continued … 

Forum highlights local Thai cuisine to boost tourism growth

Government representatives and leading figures in Thailand’s food industry discussed how to modernize local cuisine while preserving its original identity at Nation Forum: Thailand’s Agenda. “Gastronomy Tourism Boosts Creative Economy”, explored that balance through the concept of “Root to Rich”.

Saratsanun Unnopporn, secretary to the culture minister, described Thai food as tourism’s “star attraction”. Preserving its distinctive character, flavors and the stories behind local ingredients was essential to encouraging foreign visitors to travel to Thailand to experience those dishes. Continued … 

Ministry advises against travel to Europe

The Thai Foreign Affairs Ministry has advised travelers to postpone non-essential trips to several European countries, specifically France, Italy, and Spain, due to ongoing unrest and rapidly changing conditions. The ministry recommends that those planning to travel to these regions closely monitor updates from the Foreign Affairs Ministry and Thai embassies to ensure safety amid the protests.

The travel advisory is prompted by widespread protests and civil unrest linked to rising living costs, employment, and education issues. In France, the situation involves mass demonstrations and instances of urban violence, including looting and clashes with police, which have created significant security concerns. Similar instability has been reported in Italy and Spain, where the ministry is tracking developments to provide guidance to Thai nationals in the area. – Bangkok Post AI

Phuket visitors bring in nearly 400 billion baht

Phuket generated nearly 400 billion baht in tourism revenue in the first nine months of 2026 despite a slight decline in visitor numbers, as four international airlines prepare to launch direct routes ahead of the high season.

The island welcomed 10.25 million visitors between January and September, down 1.6% year-on-year. Tourism revenue fell about 1% to 399.96 billion baht. Thai visitors increased 1% to 2.65 million, generating 30.5 billion baht, up 1.8%. Foreign arrivals declined 2.4% to 7.6 million, while revenue slipped 1.2% to 369.49 billion baht. Continued … 

Khao Sok: Living beneath an ancient landscape

There are places where the landscape provides a backdrop to the journey, and there are places where the landscape is the journey. Khao Sok belongs firmly in the latter category.

From the moment we entered this extraordinary corner of Surat Thani, the great limestone mountains seemed to be everywhere. They rose beyond the road, appeared unexpectedly through breaks in the forest and towered above the river. Even from our accommodation, they formed a dramatic natural skyline. Continued … 

Travel Expert Unveils Insider Guide for Thailand’s Best Meals

Travel content creator David Mondore, a New York-based entrepreneur, is publishing a guide to eating well and cheaply across Thailand, which he calls one of the best value destinations for adventurous eaters anywhere in the world.

Over two months in the country, Mondore ate his way through restaurants, markets, and street carts, often for an average meal that landed somewhere between roughly $1.20 and $1.60. The combination of quality and affordability, he says, is almost impossible to find elsewhere at the same level. Continued … 

Trang

Here’s why you should visit Thailand’s heritage-rich coastal towns

Thailand is often imagined in neon nights and island escapes. Yet, step a little away from the usual routes and you’ll find towns where heritage lingers in facades painted in pastel shades, in flavors shaped by Thai kitchens, and in waterfronts that once welcomed travelers from across the seas. These coastal towns carry stories in their architecture, in the morning markets where languages mingle, and in the evening light that falls over lakes and shorelines.

Phuket, Trang and Songkhla show this side of Thailand in their own ways. In one place, the morning might begin with the scent of fresh noodles drifting through the old town, and in another with a boat ride into the Emerald Cave, while elsewhere the day winds down beside the lake. Each place is best savoured at an unhurried pace. Each place is best enjoyed without trying to pack too much into a day. Continued … 

Chiang Mai unveils Thailand’s first electric tram

Chiang Mai has unveiled what is described at the launch as Thailand’s first electric sightseeing tram, intended to connect more than 40 major attractions across the city. The announcement followed the signing of a sustainable urban-development agreement on Tuesday.

Known as the Chiang Mai Tram By Lannatique, the electric vehicle is part of the Lannatique Destination project. It is powered entirely by clean energy and combines a contemporary design with Lanna cultural identity, according to the provincial authorities. Continued … 

World losing ground on climate as US emissions rise, UN warns

The world is heading for more warming than scientists projected a year ago, and the United States is a big reason, the United Nations Environment Program said in its annual assessment.

If all countries deliver on their promises to cut heat-trapping emissions, Earth will still warm by about 2.6 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial times by 2100, yesterday’s report calculated – a tenth of a degree worse than last year’s projection. On its current path, the world is heading for 2.8 degrees. Continued … 

Brent rises to US$110.11 a barrel as US orders some diplomats out of Saudi Arabia

Brent crude rose to US$110.11 a barrel today after fresh Houthi attacks in Saudi Arabia prompted the United States to order some diplomats and family members to leave its missions in the kingdom.

Brent futures gained US$1.29, or 1.2%, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude increased by 97 US cents, or 1%, to US$98.12 a barrel. Continued … 

From groceries to home loans, high oil prices permeate daily life

The shock of oil prices at a five-month high of $110 a barrel and gas prices in Asia and Europe hitting their highest levels since December 2022 is making its mark on household budgets. As well as raising the costs of transport and heating, it adds to pressure on food, clothing and packaging prices, and contributes to elevated levels of inflation and borrowing costs.

The Iran war has already pushed global diesel prices to record highs. Average British diesel pump prices hit £2.00 ($2.64) per liter for the first time this month and US prices hit a record of $6.53 a gallon in September. Continued … 

‘Behemoth’ El Niño to upend global weather, UN warns

The warnings about El Niño continue to roll in. The United Nations’ weather agency weighed in yesterday, calling the potent climate pattern a “behemoth” and a “wrecking ball.” “It will tear through Latin America, eastern and southern Africa, Asia and the Pacific with extreme heat, droughts and flood,” the U.N.’s Tom Fletcher said, warning of profound humanitarian consequences. Continued … 

US court orders Meta to pay $25bn in data-harvesting case

A New Mexico judge ruled yesterday that Meta must pay $25 billion to the state after a jury found last month that the social media giant had deceived users in a case related to the Cambridge Analytica scandal, according to media reports. Continued … 

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Saturday’s news-April 13

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Today’s news: Prime Minister visits Hua Hin/PM orders Chat Chai street food/Hot Songkran weekend ahead/Twenty-five people killed/Exodus to Thailand/Solution to Thailand’s aging crisis?/Sexually transmitted diseases surge/Foreigners behaving badly/Tourism: Songkhla buzzing/Phuket’s ‘Russian invasion’/Environment: Phi Phi Islands’ water shortage/More welfare domesticated elephants/Ending human/wild elephant conflict/Links: Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Hua Hin train schedule/Market Village bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

Prime Minister visits Hua Hin Railway Station

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, accompanied by key government officials, visited the new Hua Hin Railway Station yesterday, during the start of the Songkran festival holidays.

The prime minister, also serving as the minister of finance, was joined by Suriya Juengrungruangkit, minister of transport, and Puangpet Chunla-ied, a minister in the prime minister’s office. The delegation was received by the governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan, the Hua Hin district chief, the mayor of Hua Hin City, and other leaders from both public and private sectors. Continued …

PM orders Chat Chai street food for 100 people

During his visit to Hua Hin yesterday, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, after previously touring Hua Hin’s new railroad station, made his way to the Chat Chai market, where he ordered grilled pork skewers from Anan Thongbutdee, the 67-year-old owner.

He ordered a substantial amount including grilled pork skewers, grilled meatballs, and sticky rice sufficient to feed about a hundred people, all to be delivered to his condo the next evening. Anan, who the PM has ordered food from many times in the past, will personally prepare 500 pork skewers, 200 meatball skewers, and 100 packets of sticky rice for the occasion. – HHT

Email link: kenbrown@businessclassasia.com

Hot Songkran weekend ahead

Scorching heat is expected over the Songkran Thai New Year holiday that wraps up on Monday. Surajit Jit-areerat from the Meteorological Department on Friday said hot weather conditions would continue over the weekend after many parts of the country recently experienced summer storms.

The department is expecting temperatures in some locations — including the capital — could rise up to 41 degrees Celsius in the coming days and warned people to avoid staying outdoors for too long. Continued …

25 killed, 248 injured in road accidents on first day of Songkran travel

Twenty-five people were killed and 248 others injured in 234 road accidents across the country on Thursday, Chaiwat Chuntirapong, director-general of the Department of Public Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, told a press conference today.

Forty-four percent of the accidents were caused by speeding, 20.9% by cutting in and 16.7% by drunk driving; 86% of the accidents involved motorcycles and 85.9% took place on straight roads, 47% on main roads and 23.5% on secondary roads. Most of the accidents took place between 4pm and 5pm. Continued …

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Exodus to Thailand continues after fall of Myawaddy

A stream of people, some fearing air strikes, queued at a border crossing to flee Myanmar on Friday, a day after the strategically vital town of Myawaddy near Thailand fell to anti-junta resistance that is gaining strength.

The loss of the town robs the junta, already grappling with an economy in free fall, of vital earnings from border trade, while strengthening rebel groups such as the Karen National Union (KNU) that led the assault on Myawaddy, analysts say. Continued …

Time banks: Are they the solution to Thailand’s aging crisis?

The millions of Thais heading back to their home provinces to visit elderly parents over Songkran underlines the harsh reality that many of these seniors spend most of the year all alone.

Research by Mahidol University’s Institute for Population and Social Research shows the percentage of elderly couples living alone rose from 16.9% in 2011 to 20.6% in 2017. And that figure is on course to climb to 23% by 2050. Continued …

Sexually transmitted diseases surge among young

Continued …

Fat farang strips naked and poops in Bangkok shrine

Continued …

 

Songkhla buzzing with tourists as Songkran kicks off

Hat Yai’s Sanaehanusorn Road was busy, as tourists, many from Singapore and Malaysia, flocked there to join the fun water-splashing activities on the first day of Songkran.

Before heading to the area, which was blocked to traffic, many tourists bought supplies like buckets filled with cold water in preparation for the water fight. Video …

Phuket’s ‘Russian invasion’ – they’re here to stay

The conflict in Ukraine has reached far beyond its borders, affecting not only the lives of those inside Ukraine but also on global markets and economies. Thailand, although remaining neutral on the matter has been an unexpected beneficiary of Russia’s invasion and the ongoing war.

Thailand even took advantage of the situation, extending the usual 30-day visa exemption for Russian passports to 90 days. More than 60 other countries only receive a 30-day visa exempt period (extendable for another 30 days). This favoring the Russian tourists has not gone unnoticed by just about every other country on 30-day visa exemptions. Continued …

Phi Phi Islands tackle critical water shortage

Krabi’s renowned Phi Phi Islands are currently wrestling with a critical freshwater shortage. The local governing body, Ao Nang’s tambon administration organization (TAO), is considering two primary solutions: establishing a pipeline for water provision from the mainland or resorting to seawater desalination.

Over the last few years, the absence of tap water during the tourist high season, coinciding with the dry spell, has presented a persistent problem. Phankham Kittitorakul, who presides over Ao Nang’s TAO, confirmed the receipt of a budget to explore the aforementioned options. Continued …

More welfare urged for domesticated elephants

The welfare of domesticated elephants is crucial if a negative impact on tourism is to be prevented, experts said in a recent interview. Unlike wild elephants, domesticated elephants have helped build Thailand’s economy by hauling logs since the Rattanakosin era.

The turning point in that role came when more than 50,000 logs swept by floods and landslides hit a community in Nakhon Si Thammarat’s Phipun district in 1988, killing 90 residents and injuring more than 200 others. Former Agriculture Minister Sanan Kachornprasart ordered the suspension of forest concessions in response to the incident. Continued …

Dynamic solutions needed to end human/wild elephant conflict

A solid database and dynamic solutions are necessary to sustainably tackle the conflict between wild elephants and people in Thailand, several experts said. The elephant is Thailand’s national animal and plays a major role in traditions, culture and beliefs. The country celebrates National Elephant Day on March 13 to promote the preservation of the great beast.

The kingdom is home to both wild and domesticated elephants. While wild elephants are protected under the Wildlife Preservation and Protection Act, domesticated elephants come under the Beasts of Burden Act. Continued …

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Hua Hin-Chiang Mai flight schedule

Hua Hin Chiang Mai flight schedule May 4-June 14

Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday

  • Chiang Mai–Hua Hin, 10:20am–11:50am
  • Hua Hin Chiang Mai, 12:20pm–13:35pm

Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday

  • Chiang Mai–Hua Hin, 9am–10:30am
  • Hua Hin–Chiang Mai, 11am–12:15pm

Hua Hin train schedule

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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.

 

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Emergency hotline numbers:

  • Emergency hotline – 191
  • Emergency medical services – 1554
  • Water accident – 1196
  • Motorway hotline – 1586
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  • Department of Highways – 1586

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Friday’s News-Feb 24

2 Comments

  • Adverse weather expected through Feb 28/
  • Academics ask Westerners to donate rare blood/
  • Bangkok professor says air pollution cost Thailand 4.6 trillion baht in 2019/
  • Thai food and kidney disease – an unholy alliance/
  • Aging with grace: New health and social care model for older people in Thailand/
  • Chinese agencies devouring Chiang Mai property market/
  • Foreigners invest 5 billion baht in Thailand in January/
  • Investors target high-end Pattaya hotels/
  • Thailand’s EV exports double in 2022/
  • Forest encroachment at Thap Lan puts tigers at risk/
  • CP Foods installing solar panels at 180 facilities in renewable energy push/
  • Want a sex toy? Try Thai rubber/
  • Bhumjaithai party to champion cannabis bill next term/
  • Tourism: The growing popularity of traditional Chinese medicine among western tourists/Pattaya Resurrects, Tourist Spending Increases to ฿100 Million Per Night/
  • Thailand Experience: Traditional Songkran promoted in Bangkok, Chonburi, Chiang Mai/
  • International: UN marks one year of Ukraine war with ‘historic’ vote/One year of the Russia-Ukraine war – a loss for all/Ransomware 3.0 strikes on the rise/Global wildlife contaminated by ‘forever chemicals’/
  • Links: Calendar of events/airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers

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Adverse weather expected through Feb 28

Adverse weather conditions are forecast across much of Thailand through at least Feb. 28. The Thai Meteorological Department has issued a weather warning for a combination of factors affecting different parts of the country Feb. 25-28.

The northeast monsoon prevailing over the Gulf of Thailand is likely to bring waves of 2-3 meters (6.5-10 feet) in the upper Gulf of Thailand from Surat Thani Province northward and waves of 2-4 meters (6.5-13 feet) in the lower Gulf of Thailand from Nakhon Si Thammarat Province southward, as well as waves of 1-2 meters (3-6.5 feet) in the Andaman Sea. Authorities have requested that all vessels navigate with caution and avoid thunderstorms. Small boats are advised to refrain from leaving the shore. Continued …

Academics ask Westerners to donate rare blood

Rh-Negative blood reserves in Thailand are extremely low, academics told a panel discussion on Wednesday evening, during which they encouraged the international community in Thailand to donate blood. Continued … 

Bangkok professor says air pollution cost Thailand 4.6 trillion baht in 2019

A Bangkok professor has come forward with some troubling facts about the financial cost of Thailand’s air pollution in 2019.

The Kasetsart University professor, Wissanu Attawanich, said that air pollution from PM2.5 particles caused a staggering 2.173 trillion baht economic damage to Thai households that year. Wissanu said that when counting the damage from all pollutants (PM10, PM2.5, CO, NOx, NO2), the total was 4.616 trillion baht.

Wissanu’s research paper, disseminated by the Puey Ungphakorn Institute for Economic Research (PIER), revealed five provinces with the highest cost of damage to households. The top five provinces were Bangkok, Chon Buri, Nakhon Ratchasima, Chiang Mai, and Khon Kaen. Bangkok had the largest cost of 436.330 billion baht per year for PM2.5, and 927.362 billion baht per year when all air pollutants are considered. Continued … 

Thai food and kidney disease – an unholy alliance

About 17.6% of the Thai population, or eight million people, are suffering from chronic kidney disease, of which 200,000 are in the final stages. These figures are increasing by an average of 7,800 a year, according to Professor Dr. Atiporn Ingsathit, deputy director of Ramathibodi Hospital, quoting a 2020 report by the Ministry of Public Health.

According to the U.S. Renal Data System, Thailand ranks fifth in the world for kidney disease.

One of the causes of the high incidence of the disease is excessive consumption of sodium, averaging 3,635 milligrams per day, or about two teaspoons full, which is twice the amount recommended. Sodium is present in seasonings, such as soy sauce, fish sauce, shrimp paste, soup and seasoning powder. Continued …

Aging with grace: New health and social care model for older people in Thailand

In several poorer countries, aging populations and a lack of universal access to long-term care place the burden of care for older adults on their family. To mitigate this, researchers have successfully implemented a community-integrated intermediary care model in Thailand.

This care service has proven effective in reducing caregiver burden and improving the functional ability and independence of seniors. The multi-pronged model includes care prevention activities, capacity-building for family caregivers, and community respite services.

Rapidly aging populations are a problem that many low- and middle-income countries are currently facing. However, for several of these countries, inclusive health and social care is not a reality. Since older adults require constant attention and monitoring due to age-related morbidities and disabilities, the onus of caring for them usually falls on their families. Continued …

Chinese agencies devouring Chiang Mai property market

Property agents warn that an increasing number of Chinese nationals are buying houses in Chiang Mai via Chinese agencies opened using Thai nominees.

The Real Estate Trade Assn. of Chiang Mai Northern said on Thursday that around 1,000 houses worth over 3 million baht in Chiang Mai are now owned by Chinese nationals, with total value of at least 5 billion baht.

“Chinese have been buying real estate in Chiang Mai for more than a decade,” said association President Non Hirunchetskul. Continued … 

Foreigners invest 5 billion baht in Thailand in January

In the first month of 2023, foreign investment in Thailand amounted to 5.129 billion baht, the biggest investors being the Japanese, investing 3.588 billion baht.

Foreign investment is expected to reach 100 billion baht by the end of the year.

Today, Deputy Minister of Commerce Sinit Lertkrai revealed 52 cases of foreign investment in January under the Foreign Business Act (1999). Continued … 

Investors target high-end Pattaya hotels

Hotel investors are focused on buying upscale establishments because of high demand from independent guests, instead of hotels targeting mass tour groups, which have unfavorable locations and produce low returns, say Pattaya operators.

Thanet Supornsahasrungsi, president of the Chon Buri Tourism Council, said 4- and 5-star properties, or those located near beaches and city centers, are more attractive investments because their customers tend to have high spending power.

“Investors learned from Covid-19 that location is an important factor,” said Thanet. Continued …

 

Thailand’s EV exports double in 2022

Exports of electric vehicles (EV) in 2022 rose to 9,515 units, double the number sold in the previous year, according to the Federation of Thai Industries’ Automotive Industry Club.

Total EV production last year reached 92,746 units, increasing 37.9% year-on-year, the club reported on Thursday.

Of these, 84,685 units were hybrid electric vehicles, a 44.9% year-on-year increase in production, while 8,061 units were plug-in hybrid EV, whose production dropped 21.2%. Continued … 

Forest encroachment at Thap Lan puts tigers at risk

Forest encroachment at Thap Lan National Park in Prachin Buri – the heartland of Thailand’s tiger population – has become so severe that Natural Resources and Environment Minister Varawut Silpa-archa is considering the possibility of new borders being drawn up.

“I’m confident the government won’t be disadvantaged by using forest borderlines to solve this problem inside the park. We would accept any borderline that ends the encroachment problem.”

Throughout Thailand, tigers have been driven to extinction. Until recently, there was only one known viable population of tigers in the country, along its western border with Myanmar. Then, in 2017, a population of at least 18 cats was found in Thap Lan National Park. Khao Yai National Park next door lost its tigers due to poaching. Continued … 

CP Foods installing solar panels at 180 facilities in renewable energy push

Agro-industrial and food conglomerate Charoen Pokphand Foods Public Co. (CP Foods) announced it plans to increase its usage of green energy via the installation of solar panels at 180 animal farms, feed mills, and processing plants across Thailand.

The total energy capacity of the company’s Thailand-based operations will be 65 MW by 2023 the Bangkok-based company stated in a press release. It added that it aims to reach 100 MW of solar energy across its supply chain by 2025.

“CP Foods works to promote the use of solar energy throughout the value chain to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enable cost optimization. The company had earlier this year announced that it had successfully phased out coal use across all of Thailand’s operations in accordance with coal-free 2022 campaign. The business substitutes biomass energy for coal,” CP Foods Executive Vice President Peerapong Krinchai said. Continued …

Want a sex toy? Try Thai rubber

In an effort to boost the price of natural rubber, Agriculture Minister Chalermchai Sri-on said this commodity should be channeled to the production of sex toys and dolls, which would draw additional income for the country.

Chalermchai, who is also the secretary-general of the Democrat Party, said, “Made in Thailand sex toys and dolls produced from the best natural rubber will raise the value of this commodity, with these sex products not just being about pornography but “a matter of sexual health.”

In 2021, the global sex toy market was worth 1.3 trillion baht, having grown 300% since 2016, he said, also estimating that it will increase to 2 trillion baht by 2030. Continued …

Bhumjaithai party to champion cannabis bill next term

The Bhumjaithai party yesterday pledged to push for the passage of a bill on cannabis and hemp after the next election as the controversial draft law appears unlikely to clear the House of Representatives before the end of its current term.

Supachai Jaisamut, chairman of the House committee vetting the draft law and a Bhumjaithai list-MP, seemed resigned to the fate of the bill sponsored by his party.

On Wednesday, the House continued its second reading of the draft law, and it took almost three hours to try and meet a quorum and vote on Section 15/3. Continued … 

The growing popularity of traditional Chinese medicine among western tourists

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has become increasingly popular among western tourists visiting Thailand and other Asian countries where TCM is widely practiced and easily accessible.

Western tourists are often attracted to TCM for various reasons, including its perceived effectiveness, natural remedies, and holistic approach to health and wellness.

At Chinglian TCM Clinic, which is located next to Ratchathewi BTS station, we are seeing a particular increase in younger westerners seeking out alternative treatments for a wide range of ailments. Continued …

Pattaya Resurrects, Tourist Spending Increases to ฿100 Million Per Night

The tourism industry in Pattaya, both day and night, including Walking Street and entertainment venues, is experiencing an increase in spending by tourists from Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Vietnam.

The level reaches 100 million baht per night, the figure trumping the record set pre-COVID-19. Business owners in the area are calling on the government to make it a free zone for entertainment until 4 am, like Phuket.

Tourism Authority of Thailand Pattaya Director Anoma Wongyai said Pattaya is in high season right now and many Russian tourists, along with travelers from India, Indonesia and China, want to visit the city, starting with private and family groups. Continued …

Traditional Songkran promoted in Bangkok, Chonburi, Chiang Mai

Following the inclusion of the Songkran Festival to a tentative list for recognition as an intangible cultural heritage by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), Thai authorities plan to promote the festival in a more traditional way in key tourist provinces this April.

Kowit Pakamart, director-general of the Department of Cultural Promotion, said his department is collaborating with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration to promote traditional Songkran to showcase Thai culture for this year. Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt reaffirmed the collaboration, adding that the city’s cultural council will host events throughout the year to promote the nation’s intangible cultural heritage (ICH) in the capital. It will also promote information on ICHs, including cultural displays in Bangkok’s 50 districts. Continued …

UN marks one year of Ukraine war with ‘historic’ vote

The United Nations overwhelmingly isolated Russia on Thursday, marking one year since Moscow invaded Ukraine by calling for a “comprehensive, just and lasting peace” and again demanding Moscow withdraw its troops and stop fighting. Continued …

One year of the Russia-Ukraine war – a loss for all

One year into Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the West is convinced that, with more powerful arms support to Ukraine, the country will win the war. After all, the U.S. and NATO can still take comfort in the fact that it was Russia’s blatant contravention of the UN Charter, by violating the territorial sovereignty of an independent state, that caused the conflict. Continued … 

Ransomware 3.0 strikes on the rise

Thailand recorded the second-highest number of targeted ransomware attacks in Southeast Asia and hackers are expected to increase their extortion and inflict greater damage on financial and reputational victims with Ransomware 3.0, says Russia-based cybersecurity firm Kaspersky. Continued …

Global wildlife contaminated by ‘forever chemicals’

From pandas to sea lions to tigers, hundreds of wildlife species across the globe are contaminated by potentially harmful “forever chemicals”, according to a review of hundreds of peer-reviewed studies. Continued …

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Hua Hin-Suvarnabhumi bus schedule

The VIP bus service from Hua Hin to Suvarnabhumi Airport has a new Cha Am boarding location in front of Government Savings Bank. The one-way fare is 325 baht.

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

Hua Hin-Pattaya bus service twice a day

Hua Hin now has twice-daily bus service to Pattaya, starting Feb. 19. The bus leaves Hua Hin at 9am and 3pm, and departs 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 

 

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