Paetongtarn "must be afraid of" ghosts from the past. August 19, 2024: According to former Red Shirt warrior Jatuporn Prompan, who is sounding more and more conservative, Thailand’s newest and youngest prime minister will be ousted from Government House by early next year. He gave a list of “old wounds” that can resurface to compromise Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s legal and constitutional legitimacy. The already-big mess can get even messier over the next few days. PBS Would

Paetongtarn "must be afraid of" ghosts from the past

August 19, 2024: According to former Red Shirt warrior Jatuporn Prompan, who is sounding more and more conservative, Thailand's newest and youngest prime minister will be ousted from Government House by early next year.

He gave a list of "old wounds" that can resurface to compromise Paetongtarn Shinawatra's legal and constitutional legitimacy. Among them is curious ownerships of the previous Alpine Golf Course, which had led to a big political scandal that blew up in many Pheu Thai faces.

Some conservative analysts or activists have said the same thing. They think Alpine can undermine Paetongtarn, with official complaints seeking to remove her certain to be launched.

"Oong-ing (the new prime minister) must check the records to see if she had anything to do with Alpine," Jatuporn said. "If she did, it could be a similar case that ended the political path of (ex-Palang Pracharath politician) Pareena Kraikupt."

He also mentioned education matters that raised ethical questions, "nominee purchases" of Thai properties by foreigners, and election campaign policies that seemed to benefit foreigners at the expense of Thai sovereignty.

"The country is not a toy, (in other words) an experimental playground for risky policies like Digital Wallet or increased foreign stakes in condominiums," Jatuporn said.

He added in his Facebook Live that opponents of Pheu Thai must be drooling while sharpening their knives.

August 18, 2024: The Constitutional Court essentially ruled that Srettha Thavisin lost his legitimacy as prime minister because of a Cabinet appointment, but what actually tested his integrity as a leader more was the Pheu Thai Party's flagship policy.

Newly-appointed Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is facing the same ultimate test. She has hinted that the "Digital Wallet" scheme may need to be reviewed, but her statement was still ambiguous to the point of making certain mainstream media outlets believe that there would be no significant changes to the controversial programme.

So much debate has focused on whether Digital Wallet would really help the poor effectively and boost the Thai economic rather than ruin it in the long run. If she wants to continue it essentially in its current form, she must be able to defend it scientifically and rationally. She must not invoke the key Srettha argument that claimed "conspiracy" and virtually offered no valuable explanation to back up the plan.

Srettha's integrity also dimmed because of his handling of the Thaksin issue. For obvious reasons, the Thaksin affair will complicate Paetongtarn's political status more than it did to Srettha's. Thaksin is a former convict who is now the father of Thailand's prime minister and still faces legal charges.

Paetongtarn's path will be strewn with legal and constitutional landmines. How the justice system will function in the current circumstances remains to be seen and will be a telltale sign as to the country's direction.

August 17, 2024: You have to lead a superpower nation to be able to be rudely playful with a reporter and get away with it.

This is not to downplay what Palang Pracharath leader Prawit Wongsuwan did the other day. (According to some LINE comments, he might have put an end to any prime ministerial aspiration with that little "patting".)

This is to say that a politician's aggressiveness toward members of the press is perceived differently from place to place. What is considered rude also seems to increase in seriousness in reverse proportion to the sophistication of politics.

For example, in one of President Joe Biden's hot mic moments, he was overheard murmuring while being inquired about inflation: "What a stupid son of a @#$%&"

Imagine Prawit was overheard saying something like that when a reporter asked him about the House of Representatives vote to elect Paetongtarn Shinawatra as the new prime minister.

Peter Doocy is a senior White House correspondent, mind you. What happened in the studio of Fox News? They laughed at it. They found it hilarious. Most pro- and anti-Biden news networks gave it a rest after two days.

Again, this is not in Prawit's defence. This is to bring back a record that the leader of the free world could call a member of a major element of democracy "stupid" and all everyone did was laugh.

August 16, 2024: If someone had predicted early last year that Move Forward would sweep the May 2023 election but would not be in the government and would finally be dissolved, that Pheu Thai would form an administration with the main conservative parties, that a Pheu Thai prime minister would be removed by the Constitutional Court, only to be replaced by another Pheu Thai prime minister, that the cannabis deregulation policy that the conservatives were so proud of would be reversed at their own "approval", that the Digital Wallet policy that the conservatives decried would sleepwalk through Parliament, again at their approval, that predictor would be sent to a mental institution.

That's how crazy the past 16 months has been. Bad news is it can get crazier, at the expense of development policies that will be written, rewritten, revoked and reintroduced for fun.

Nobody can really celebrate. The "conservatives" and "liberals" are both swallowing bitter pills. Pheu Thai will have to keep looking over its shoulder. Backstabbing will be the most vital part of the Thai political game. Alliance will be based on vested interest, not trust or desire to give Thais utmost benefits.

August 15, 2024: The last thing people thought on hearing Wednesday's Constitutional Court verdict against Srettha Thavisin was that Parliament would vote less than two days later to elect the new prime minister.

But here we are, just hours before the House of Representatives is scheduled to make it seem like Wednesday was another normal day in Thai politics.

This is the idea. A lot of people concerned would not want things to drag on for various reasons. Big businesses do not want great uncertainties. Politicians in power do not want mathematical formulas to emerge that could encourage the previously hopeless or entice potential rebels into upping bargains.

The swift schedule means much remains in Pheu Thai's control as there is not enough time for the likes of Anutin Charnvirakul or Prawit Wongsuwan to conjure up a competing scenario. As for the newly-dissolved party, they did not stand a chance in the first place due to the complications of last week's ruling and the mistake of failing to name substitute prime ministerial candidates. (This candidacy naming issue would give everyone a valuable lesson, not just the "Orange" camp.)

Also, we are seeing the importance of being able to control House schedules. (In addition to the ballooning irony of government leaders' cars entering and leaving the house of you-know-who.)

August 14, 2024: Today's Constitutional Court ruling on the prime minister's case can ensure escalation of Thailand's political turmoil, which has been kept from exploding by a fragile and absurd political equilibrium where partnership exists not on ability and willingness to work together, but on developments caused and dictated by utmost extremism and self-interest.

Things were always heading toward a dead end either way. The equilibrium is so sensitive that the most minuscule change can cause a turbulent upheaval, let alone a gigantic development like the dissolution of the Move Forward Party or the prime minister's removal.

The court verdict ousting Srettha would only hasten the inevitability, a free-for-all political fight that cannot guarantee the winner but can ascertain one thing _ whoever emerges "triumphant" will not be able to bring peace and will have to continue looking over his or her shoulder.

As everyone knows, Pheu Thai's relationship with the conservatives depends on how the latter group perceives Move Forward or its reincarnation. It is never based on public interest. Pheu Thai and what remains of Move Forward, meanwhile, have crucially-conflicting interests as well.

Horse-trading will take place at full throttle. Who is needing whom more and who is holding whom hostage are slippery questions invoking slippery answers.

The already-big mess can get even messier over the next few days.



Hon är Thailands rekordunga premiärminister. Den thailändske kungen har formellt utnämnt Paetongtarn Shinawatra till landets nya premiärminister vid en ceremoni på söndagen. SVT Nyheter



Hon är Thailands rekordunga premiärminister

UPPDATERAD IDAG 14:25

PUBLICERAD IDAG 08:00

Den thailändske kungen har formellt utnämnt Paetongtarn Shinawatra till landets nya premiärminister vid en ceremoni på söndagen.

37-åriga Paetongtarn Shinawatra, dotter till den kontroversielle miljardären och tidigare premiärministern Thaksin Shinawatra, är kungadömets yngsta person hittills på posten och tar över rodret efter en turbulent tid där hennes föregångare tvingades sluta och det största oppositionspartiet upplösts av en domstol.

Hon blir den tredje i släkten Shinawatra att utses till premiärminister. Sannolikt hoppas hon dock att undvika att sluta på samma sätta som fadern och fastern Yingluck Shinawatra som båda avsattes i militärkupper.

"Öppet hjärta"

Paetongtarn Shinawatra mottog kung Maha Vajiralongkorns formella, skriftliga uppmaning att bilda regering i ceremonin som hölls på huvudkontoret tillhörande en tv-kanal som tidigare varit känd som Shinawatra-trogen.

– Som regeringschef kommer jag att arbeta tillsammans med parlamentet med ett öppet hjärta och vara mottaglig för alla idéer som kan vara till hjälp vad gäller att utveckla landet, sade hon efter ceremonin.

Thailändsk politik har präglats av instabilitet de senaste två årtiondena, med kupper, maktkamper och stora folkliga protester. Bakom kulisserna anses militären fortfarande styra med järnhand efter sin kupp 2014. Så sent som förra veckan upplöste landets konstitutionsdomstol det stora partiet Kao Klai, som vann förra årets val med löften om minskad makt för militären och kungahuset – men som inte släpptes fram till regeringsmakten.

Gravid under valkampanj

Paetongtarn Shinawatra, ledare för partiet Pheu Thai, växte upp i Bangkok och studerade senare i Storbritannien. Under valkampanjen i fjol skapade hon rubriker då hon var gravid i åttonde månaden – och födde barn knappt två veckor före valdagen.

Hennes största utmaning blir att få Thailands pandemidrabbade ekonomi på rätt köl igen, spår analytiker – liksom att bevisa att hon inte enbart är sin pappas hantlangare.

BAKGRUND: MAKTKAMP MELLAN ELIT OCH OPPOSITION

Thailändsk inrikespolitik kan beskrivas som en maktkamp mellan anhängare till en traditionell elit – militären, kungahuset och statsförvaltningen – och en bred grupp som står i opposition.

Störst i parlamentet efter valet 2023 blev det progressiva och ungdomsvänliga Kao Klai. Partiet gick till val på löften om att lätta på landets strikta majestätslagar och avskaffa militärens politiska inflytande – men släpptes trots valsegern aldrig fram till regeringsmakten.

Det kan förklaras av att det politiska systemet är kraftigt riggat i militärens favör, enligt en grundlagsändring som genomfördes efter militärkuppen 2014. En tredjedel av nationalförsamlingen och hela senaten tillsätts av militären.

Tidigare i augusti upplöste Thailands konstitutionsdomstol Kao Klai. Enligt domstolen utgjorde partiets vallöften ett försök att störta den thailändska monarkin. Tilltaget mot Kao Klai har fördömts av EU, USA, FN och flera människorättsorganisationer.

Partier som utmanar det militära och monarkistiska etablissemanget i Thailand har även tidigare blivit ogiltigförklarade på olika vis.

Källor: Landguiden/UI med flera. 

Immigration and the New Government. The shock resignation of prime minister Srettha Thavisin is bound to reverberate in all sorts of directions. But it’s virtually certain that the new Pheu Thai-led administration will get round to immigration and visas sooner rather than later. - Pattaya Mail

Immigration and the New Government

Pattaya MailAugust 18, 2024

The resignation of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is set to have wide-ranging impacts, while the incoming Paetongtarn Shinawatra administration may find the more liberal immigration and visa policies quite challenging to implement.

EDITORIAL

The shock resignation of prime minister Srettha Thavisin is bound to reverberate in all sorts of directions. But it's virtually certain that the new Pheu Thai-led administration will get round to immigration and visas sooner rather than later. Mr Thavisin's vision was to expand massively the entry and extension opportunities for visa-exempt tourists, whilst creating a new visa for long-stayers with a lawful activity in mind. But the foreign affairs ministry, which pushed through the changes in Cabinet, may have bitten off more than the new government can chew.

The latest rule allows visa-exempt tourists to receive 60 days on arrival with a 30 days' extension at local immigration. Nothing in print prevents these tourists from leaving the country – for example on a border hop – and repeating the procedure indefinitely. That would mean a permanent leave to remain in Thailand, without any visa, simply by briefly leaving the country – even for an hour or two – four times a year. No need to show any paperwork of any kind.

When challenged about multiple admissions, the foreign affairs ministry spokesman said that, of course, all entries to Thailand were subject to the discretion of the immigration officer. In other words, you would never be sure what might happen further down the line. One tourist might be refused, whilst another might be hassle-free, a scenario which would create the bad publicity which the Thai government abhors. The obvious solution is for the incoming Thai government to limit entries under the visa-exempt scheme to one or two in any twelve months' period.

The new Destination Thailand Visa is a long overdue measure to address the issue of digital nomads or remote workers who have been under a legal cloud for the past 20 years. The DTV allows those who report to a foreign company and/or have overseas clients to receive a multiple entry five years' visa which, with an extension at local immigration, allows them to remain in the kingdom for up to 360 days (180 on entry + 180 at extension). They must then "leave the country" to repeat the procedure. The unclear bits here are whether the remote worker's contracts or portfolio of work need to be updated, or whether no further checks are made for the five years' duration.

One can easily imagine the scenario whereby some remote workers would be checked more thoroughly than others on repeat visits or at the extension stage. Not to mention the huge queues likely to form at airports, land borders and immigration offices if the documentation is not up to standard. One way out of the confusion would be to authorize the digital nomad DTV for one year, or maybe two, before new documentation should be presented for scrutiny. Of course, the visa is strictly for remote workers with foreign clients. Any work for customers in Thailand requires a work permit, not the DTV.

The second and quite different route to the DTV is by participating in a lawful activity broadly defined as soft power. The current rules state that a foreigner may enrol for a cookery or martial arts course or be seeking medical treatment or be attending musical festivals or have a wife and/or dependants living in Thailand. Does this really suggest that someone could present a ticket for an upcoming pop concert or show a letter for dental treatment and receive, in return, a five years' multiple entry visa? Presumably not, but the lack of precise information is spell-binding. These soft power DTV visas are in need of urgent review.

The new immigration policies show every sign of having been pushed through the Cabinet without too much deliberation. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has acted on the instruction of the previous prime minister to boost tourism and revenue come what may, leaving the awkward detail to be sorted out later at entry points and at immigration offices throughout the land. But foreigners hate ambiguity as we also see in the kerfuffle about personal tax and income from overseas. The sooner the government starts clarifying rather than dictating, the better for all concerned.

Over 9,000 Deaths Annually Attributed to Secondhand Smoke in Thailand. The report also revealed major increases in illnesses linked to epidemiological surveillance, including a sharp rise in influenza and dengue fever cases. - The Pattaya News

Over 9,000 Deaths Annually Attributed to Secondhand Smoke in Thailand

Goongnang SuksawatSaturday, 17 August 2024, 23:09

PRESS RELEASE:

A recent report by the Office of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) has raised a grave concern in Thailand, where over 9,000 deaths annually are attributed to secondhand smoke, exceeding the figures reported in the United States.

The NESDC's review, covering the social conditions of the first quarter of 2024, also brought attention to the health issues exacerbated by alcohol and cigarette consumption, among other social challenges.

The report also revealed major increases in illnesses linked to epidemiological surveillance, including a sharp rise in influenza and dengue fever cases. While cigarette usage saw a slight decline, the persistent problem of secondhand smoke has led to calls for stricter enforcement of public smoking bans and the creation of designated smoking areas to protect the public

Health experts are acutely concerned about the impact of e-cigarettes, debunking myths among parents who believe them to be harmless. Experts warn that the dangers of nicotine exposure from e-cigarettes can severely affect cognitive functions and development in children, potentially leading them to traditional smoking and even illegal drug use later in life.

The situation also calls for robust public health strategies to lower smoking rates and safeguard young and vulnerable populations from the detrimental effects of nicotine addiction.

The preceding is a press release from the Thai Government PR Department.

Thaksin Shinawatra granted Royal pardon. The Thaiger

The Shinawatra family continues to face challenges. The future of the Pheu Thai Party and the Shinawatra family is at stake as they strive to avoid repeating past mistakes and potential exile from Thailand. ASEAN NOW

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The future of the Pheu Thai Party and the Shinawatra family is at stake as they strive to avoid repeating past mistakes and potential exile from Thailand.

 

After several political upheavals, Paetongtarn Shinawatra has been elected as Thailand's 31st prime minister. The political landscape remains unsettled following the Constitutional Court's ruling to dissolve the Move Forward Party, leading to a rebranding as the People's Party.

 

Recently, the Constitutional Court ordered Srettha Thavisin to step down as prime minister due to ethical violations, prompting further legal challenges. Srettha faces additional scrutiny from the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), reported Daily News.

 

These developments have led to significant shifts in the government, with Thaksin Shinawatra, the influential figure behind Pheu Thai, calling for a meeting with coalition partners. Thaksin announced the cancellation of the 10,000-baht digital wallet scheme, Pheu Thai's flagship policy, due to economic concerns.

 

With Paetongtarn now in power, attention shifts to forming a new Cabinet and potential reshuffles within key parties like Palang Pracharath and Ruam Thai Sang Chart. The upcoming policy announcement on August 28th will set the stage for Paetongtarn's administration.

 

Paetongtarn now faces the challenge of leading the country, guided by her father, Thaksin. The 2026 general election will be crucial, with the newly formed People's Party emerging as a major competitor.

 

Paetongtarn, now aligned with conservatives, must find a way to counter the "Orange Camp" representing younger voters.

 

Picture courtesy: Daily News

 

-- 2024-08-17

Thailand has a new PM. The Nation



Paetongtarn Shinawatra to be Nominated as Thailand's New PM. Paetongtarn, 37, the youngest daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, was elected as the Pheu Thai leader last October. If elected by parliament during a special session today (Friday), she would become Thailand's 31st and youngest-ever Prime Minister, the second female to hold the position, and the third Shinawatra family member to do so, following her father Thaksin and her aunt Yingluck Shinawatra. ASEAN NOW

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Leader of Pheu Thai Party, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, daughter of Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, wave before press conference in Bangkok, Thailand, Thursday, Aug. 15, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit)

 

The Pheu Thai Party has announced that it will nominate Paetongtarn Shinawatra as its candidate for Prime Minister to succeed Srettha Thavisin, who was removed from office by the Constitutional Court on Wednesday.

 

Paetongtarn, 37, the youngest daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, was elected as the Pheu Thai leader last October. If elected by parliament during a special session today (Friday), she would become Thailand's 31st and youngest-ever Prime Minister, the second female to hold the position, and the third Shinawatra family member to do so, following her father Thaksin and her aunt Yingluck Shinawatra.

 

The press conference announcing her nomination was attended by government coalition leaders who expressed their support, making her political future appear assured. "We are confident that we will work together to help the country move past its economic problems and advance into the future," Paetongtarn said, thanking both the public and the coalition government parties for their support.

 

Initially, a meeting of government whips at Thaksin's residence had agreed to nominate Chaikasem Nitisiri, 76, as their candidate. However, a meeting of Pheu Thai MPs today decided to nominate Paetongtarn instead.

 

Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul also expressed his full support for Paetongtarn. "All the parties in the coalition government show their spirit in working together to ensure continuity in running the country," said Anutin, whose Bhumjaithai Party is the second biggest partner in the coalition. His endorsement is crucial.

 

Paetongtarn, nicknamed "Ung-ing," was born in the United States on August 21st, 1986, to Thaksin and Potjaman Na Pombejra. She has a bachelor's degree in political science from Chulalongkorn University and a master's in international hotel management from the University of Surrey in England reported Thai PBS.

 

Before her political career, she was a major shareholder in SC Asset Corporation and held shares in around 20 other companies in real estate, telecom, and media sectors. She has experience as the chief executive of Rende Development Co. Ltd.

 

Married to airline pilot Pidok Sooksawas, with whom she has two children, Paetongtarn was recently appointed as deputy chair of two national committees, on soft power strategy and public health system development, under Srettha's government.

 

-- 2024-08-16

Useful Phone Numbers for Tourists and Residents in Thailand for 2024 - The Pattaya News

Useful Phone Numbers for Tourists and Residents in Thailand for 2024

Adam JuddThursday, 15 August 2024, 22:39

Chaikasem to be Nominated as New Thai PM at Special House Meeting. haikasem Nitisiri, a former justice minister and senior figure in the Pheu Thai Party, is expected to be nominated as the new prime minister of Thailand. This comes after the unexpected dismissal of Srettha Thavisin by the Constitutional Court for ethical breaches. ASEAN NOW

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BREAKING: PM Srettha axed over controversial cabinet appointment



Thailand's Schengen-Style Visa Proposal Faces Hurdles. The success of the visa proposal will hinge on the adoption of sustainable tourism practices and effective regional cooperation. ASEAN NOW

Picture courtesy: Facebook/Phi Phi World

 

Thailand's Prime Minister, Srettha Thavisin, has proposed a unified visa system, similar to Europe's Schengen Area, to boost tourism in Southeast Asia. Despite the economic benefits of increased tourist numbers, concerns about feasibility, overtourism and potential inflationary pressure persist. The success of the visa proposal will hinge on the adoption of sustainable tourism practices and effective regional cooperation.

 

Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has recently proposed a novel approach to reinvigorate tourism in Southeast Asia — a Schengen-style visa scheme. Modelled after Europe's Schengen Area, this unified visa system would allow travel to Thailand, Cambodia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Vietnam and Laos.

 

This initiative is a key component of Thailand's efforts to boost tourism, aiming to attract 80 million tourists annually by 2027.

 

The Schengen-style visa proposal has potential to significantly enhance Thailand's economy. Tourism is a vital sector for Thailand, contributing approximately 12 per cent to the country's GDP annual and providing around 20 per cent of its jobs. The COVID-19 pandemic severely impacted this sector and its recovery has been slow, which has left Thailand unable to buffer a concurrent decline in manufacturing and exports.

 

In this proposed visa scheme, tourists must first pass through Thailand as a central hub, enhancing Thailand's appeal as a travel destination. It promises to attract more tourists, especially high-spending visitors who stay for extended periods.

 

Increased tourist arrivals are expected to boost tourist spending, benefiting sectors such as hospitality, retail and transportation. A surge in tourism could also create further job opportunities and stimulate economic growth in regions heavily reliant on tourism.

 

Thailand's well-developed tourism infrastructure positions it to benefit greatly from the consequential influx of tourists. Its burgeoning wellness industry, including traditional Thai massages, spa treatments and holistic healing practices, are particularly appealing to tourists seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.

 

The visa initiative could enhance accessibility for tourists interested in wellness experiences and help Thailand capitalise on the thriving global wellness tourism industry.

 

This Schengen-style proposal could also diversify Thailand's tourism markets. Thailand is traditionally dependent on tourists from the Southeast and East Asia regions, such as Malaysia, China, Russia, South Korea, India and Singapore.

 

But Thailand now seeks to attract tourists from markets farther afield like Europe, the Americas and Africa. This strategy could enhance the Thai tourism sector's resilience against global economic fluctuations.

 

Despite the initiative's potential economic benefits, there are widespread concerns about its feasibility, the risks associated with overtourism and inflation.

 

Southeast Asia's political landscape is remarkably diverse and intricate. Achieving consensus among the member states of ASEAN on visa policies is no small feat. Each country maintains its own immigration laws, security concerns and economic interests. Harmonising these disparate elements into a cohesive visa policy requires extensive negotiation and compromise.

 

Efforts to create a unified visa system in Southeast Asia are not new. In the 2000s, a joint visa proposal under Ayeyawady–Chao Phraya–Mekong Economic Cooperation Strategy — an organisation of Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia and Myanmar — only saw Cambodia coordinating with Thailand, reported East Asia Forum.

 

In 2019, an 'ASEAN Visa' plan also failed to materialise. Other attempts at regional integration, such as the ASEAN Economic Community, have shown that while progress is possible, it is often slow and fraught with challenges.

 

Infrastructure and technological readiness vary significantly across Southeast Asian countries. Implementing a unified visa system necessitates significant investments in border control infrastructure, data sharing mechanisms and security protocols. Countries with less-developed infrastructure may struggle to meet these requirements, potentially delaying the implementation of the scheme.

 

Additionally, this initiative raises broader questions about regional integration and mobility. One important consideration is whether this visa scheme could pave the way for ASEAN citizens to freely work, study or reside across national boundaries, including in Thailand. This potential development carries significant implications for logistics, infrastructure and immigration policies within the Southeast Asian region.

 

While this Schengen-style visa scheme will undoubtedly enhance travel convenience for international tourists, it stirs apprehension regarding overtourism. Thailand has already experienced the negative impacts of overtourism in popular destinations such as Pattaya, Bangkok, Phuket and Chiang Mai.

 

Implementing such a visa scheme without addressing existing overtourism challenges might exacerbate these issues, potentially leading to environmental degradation, strained infrastructure and diminished quality of life for permanent residents.

 

Overtourism may also dilute the tourist experience, making popular sites overcrowded, more expensive and less enjoyable. This could ultimately harm Thailand's reputation as a travel destination and reduce the long-term sustainability of its tourism sector.

 

Another potentially detrimental consequence is the inflationary pressure emanating from a unsustainable influx of wealthy visitors. This would drive up demand for food, daily necessities and housing, which in turn raises prices and increases living costs for residents.

 

To mitigate these risks, Thailand needs to adopt sustainable tourism practices. This includes implementing measures to manage tourist flows, promoting lesser-known destinations and investing in infrastructure that can accommodate increased tourist numbers without compromising the environment or local communities. Regional cooperation is also crucial to ensure the benefits and burdens of increased tourism are equitably distributed among participating countries.

 

Srettha's proposal for a Schengen-style visa scheme in Southeast Asia is an ambitious and innovative idea with the potential to boost tourism and economic growth in the region. But its successful implementation requires overcoming substantial political, logistical and infrastructural challenges. While Thailand stands to gain economically, there is also a significant risk of exacerbating the overtourism crisis.

 

To maximise the potential benefits and minimise the risks, a balanced approach is necessary. Addressing these challenges could make this Schengen-style visa scheme a transformative initiative for Southeast Asian tourism, benefiting both Thailand and the broader region.

 

-- 2024-08-09



Thai immigration mysteries unveiled as recent visa overhaul explained at PCEC - Pattaya Mail

Thai immigration mysteries unveiled as recent visa overhaul explained at PCEC

Pattaya MailJuly 31, 2024

Duncan Foster enlightens his PCEC audience on the mysteries of Thai Immigration services. He explained that each Immigration Office has varied interpretations of the rules which results in each having their own set of requirements.

PATTAYA, Thailand – At the July 24 meeting of the Pattaya City Expats Club (PCEC) Duncan Foster, company director of MOT'S services, spoke about the mysteries of Thai Immigration and recent changes for tourists wanting to obtain a Thai driving license. He was followed by Barry Kenyon who spoke about the recent changes, that went into effect on July 15, 2024, for those entering Thailand Visa Exempt or with a. Visa. Their presentation was highlighted in a recent Pattaya Mail article at https://www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/pattaya-city-expats-hear-about-myth-and-mystery-at-immigration-466619.

First up was Duncan Foster. He delivered an enlightening presentation on the complexities of Thai immigration and driving license procedures. With over 36 years of experience in customer service and sales, Duncan brought clarity to the often confusing and misunderstood processes of immigration and the land transport office.
Duncan began by addressing the 'myths and mysteries' of immigration, explaining the autonomy of provincial immigration offices and their varied interpretations of the rules. He emphasized that each office operates independently, often leading to unexpected requirements for those seeking Immigration services such as extensions of stay.

Duncan Foster warns his PCEC audience about Thai driving license scams prevalent on Facebook offering to obtain licenses without the need to visit the Land Transport Office.

A significant update from the land transport office was also shared, affecting tourists in obtaining or renewing driving licenses. The new rule requires a minimum of 15 days left on one's permission to stay at the appointment date, not the day of making the appointment.

Duncan warned the audience about a prevalent scam involving fake driving licenses sold through Facebook, urging vigilance and caution. The scams on Facebook promise driving licenses without needing to visit the transport agency, exploiting people by using fake profiles and advertisements.

These scams are operated by illegal call centers known as boiler rooms, which make substantial amounts of money by deceiving people. The scammers use multiple Facebook profiles, including Mot's Services, and advertisements offering services at half the usual cost, claiming they will handle all the paperwork. These scammers repeatedly ask for additional payments under various pretexts, with some victims losing over 12,000 baht before realizing the scam.

Barry Kenyon brings his PCEC audience up to date on the recent Thai Immigration changes for Visa and Visa Exempt entries into Thailand that went into effect on July 15, 2024.

He concluded with a brief history of Mot's Services, which evolved from a motorbike rental company to a full-fledged visa and licensing agency. Foster's personal touch and customer-centric approach have been instrumental in the company's success.

This was followed by a lively question and answer session. This included questions about retirement extensions as well as penalties for overstaying. The process of obtaining international driving permits was also covered, with Duncan confirming that such permits can be obtained for those with a five-year Thai license. Duncan cautioned that using a Yellow House book and a pink ID card for renewing a driving license was not recommended as it would result in the license showing it was restricted to driving only in Chonburi Province, thus he recommended using a residency certificate to avoid such limitation.

This resulted in a discussion on the costs and processes of obtaining a residency certificate, with some participants sharing their experiences and the speaker confirming that fees are typically involved, though they may vary by location.

MC Ren Lexander presents Duncan Foster with the PCEC's Certificate of Appreciation for an informative and interesting talk about Thai Immigration and obtaining Thai Driving Licenses.

Barry Kenyon, a well-known individual knowledgeable on Thai visa regulations and requirements, delivered an insightful presentation on the recent overhaul of visa rules and its impact on expatriates and tourists.

He noted that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs handles entry requirements, while the Immigration Bureau manages extensions and regulations once in Thailand, leading to confusion because of the lack of a single authority. Consequently, there can be confusion in the application of Visa rules stemming from the division of responsibilities.

Barry highlighted the significant changes introduced by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on July 15, which now allows citizens from 93 countries to enter Thailand without documentation for 60 days. He then discussed the introduction of the new five-year multiple entry Destination Thailand Visa (DTV), designed for remote workers among others, and the associated application process.

He noted that the DTV also caters to medical tourists and those enrolling in cultural activities like Muay Thai training or cookery courses. Further, applicants must apply for the DTV from outside Thailand, and that there are risks involved in falsely claiming to be in another country during the application process.

Despite the uncertainties and speculations surrounding the enforcement of activity-based visas and future financial proof requirements, Barry provided a much-needed clarification on the recent visa regulation changes and their implications for the expat community in Thailand.

The presentations can be viewed on PCEC's YouTube channel. For Ducan's talk, visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yGhTuQo5fBA&t=1s and for Barry's talk, visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jfO4u1RJDXA&t=41s.

Following the presentations, MC Ren Lexander brought everyone up to date on upcoming events and invited George Wilson to conduct the Open Forum portion of the meeting where questions are asked and comments made about Expat living in Thailand, especially Pattaya. To learn more about the PCEC, visit their website at https:/pcec.club\.

Thailand anticipates record 2.2 million Russian tourists in 2024. Thailand’s tourism sector is set to witness a surge in Russian travellers, with projections indicating a record 2.2 million arrivals next year, buoyed by a new 60-day visa-free scheme. However, a shortage of aircraft in Russian airlines poses a challenge, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). | Thaiger

Thailand anticipates record 2.2 million Russian tourists in 2024

Bob ScottPublished: 09:34, 30 July 2024

Thailand's tourism sector is set to witness a surge in Russian travellers, with projections indicating a record 2.2 million arrivals next year, buoyed by a new 60-day visa-free scheme. However, a shortage of aircraft in Russian airlines poses a challenge, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

In 2025, TAT aims for a 7.5% increase in revenue, targeting 39 million foreign tourists and 205 million domestic trips.

Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, TAT Deputy Governor for Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and the Americas, stated that the estimate of 2.2 million Russian tourists for next year is based on the expected growth rate observed in 2024, which should elevate the market to 1.9-2 million visitors.

This year's achievements are predicted to surpass the figures from both 2019 and 2023, each of which saw 1.48 million Russian tourists. In the first half of the year alone, 920,989 Russian tourists visited Thailand, making them the fifth largest group of foreign arrivals, Siripakorn said.

"Based on the first quarter report, their expenditure per trip tallied around 62,000 baht."

For 2024, the Russian market is expected to generate 124 billion baht in revenue for Thailand's tourism industry.

Tourism operators

Aeroflot and S7, two major Russian flag carriers, currently operate over 40 flights per week to Bangkok and Phuket. The Thai tourism authority is in ongoing discussions with airlines and tourism operators to boost both scheduled and chartered flights in the final quarter to meet the peak season demand from Russian tourists.

Despite Thai Airways expressing interest in resuming flights to Russia, there is no concrete plan in place yet, Siripakorn added.

Khanittha Phanworawat, Director of TAT's Moscow office, highlighted that the aircraft shortage among commercial and chartered airlines remains a significant hurdle, exacerbated by the Russia-Ukraine conflict. This situation prevents airlines from leasing new aircraft.

"The majority of 61 long-range aircraft among all operators in Russia have been allocated to domestic routes and other rising destinations such as China, Vietnam, and India."

To address these challenges, TAT plans to promote extended-stay travel packages for Russian tourists, combining cultural and historical tours with wellness activities and beach destinations to increase their length of stay.

Another issue is the ban on accepting Russian credit cards in Thailand, which discourages spending. Consequently, many Russian tourists opt for inclusive tour packages that cover all expenses, including transport, accommodation, and food.

However, more operators in major Thai cities are now offering currency exchange services for rubles, and some Russian visitors are choosing to register new debit cards in other countries that can be used in Thailand.

Thailand's efforts to accommodate and attract more Russian tourists signal a strategic move to boost the tourism industry, despite the logistical and financial challenges posed by current geopolitical tensions, reported Bangkok Post.



Thai Prime Minister Delighted as Tourist Arrivals in Thailand Exceed 20 Million. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin announced on X that Thailand has welcomed over 20 million foreign tourists during the first seven months of this year, marking a significant 34% increase compared to the previous year.- The Pattaya News

Thai Prime Minister Delighted as Tourist Arrivals in Thailand Exceed 20 Million

Aim TanakornMonday, 29 July 2024, 1:09

National —

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin announced on X that Thailand has welcomed over 20 million foreign tourists during the first seven months of this year, marking a significant 34% increase compared to the previous year.

In his July 26th post, Mr. Srettha emphasized that this achievement is not merely due to luck but the result of combined efforts across various sectors. He also highlighted the government's free visa schemes, increased flight services, expansion into an aviation hub, and the development of tourist attractions as key factors contributing to this growth.

Prime Minister Srettha further commended Thailand's service industry for providing hospitality and warm welcome to the tourists. He noted that the tourism sector is poised for further growth, supported by positive forecasts from Kasikorn Research Center, which predicts that the sector will experience a better-than-expected recovery.

Additionally, over 6.4 million Thai tourists have traveled domestically since the beginning of this year, representing an increase of over 50% from last year, Mr. Srettha concluded.

Thaksin isn’t too old to be prime minister at 75. Ex Thai premier and former exile Thaksin Shinawatra says he won’t stand again to become prime minister as 75 years is too old to lead a country.- Pattaya Mail

Thaksin isn't too old to be prime minister at 75

Pattaya MailJuly 28, 2024

Thaksin is still a young man to scale the heights of political power.

Ex Thai premier and former exile Thaksin Shinawatra says he won't stand again to become prime minister as 75 years is too old to lead a country. Of course, advancing years are often a factor in high office, especially in countries defined loosely as democracies. Joe Biden has recently withdrawn his hat from the American presidential ring at age 81, although suggestions of mental decline (rather than age as such) were likely the key determinant. Yet advancing years in world leaders have been a constant factor since Old Testament times.

In Thailand, General Prem Tinsulanonda died in 2019 at the age of 98, having retired as Regent of Thailand only three years before. Whilst prime minister in the 1980s, he became the ninth oldest man in the 20th century to hold that position. The head of state currently being the most mature is president and dictator Paul Biya of the Cameroons at 91 years. He has been in power for four decades and supporters want him to run again in the 2025 elections. Biya's health is claimed to be good although a doctor who divulged to an American journalist that the president had a heart condition was found two days later in a roadside ditch.

Other record breakers have included Giovanni Paolo Lascaris who died as ruler of Malta and head of the Knights Hospitaller at age 97 in the 17th century. More recently, Queen Elizabeth II died in office in 2022 at 96, whilst pope Francis is still battling at age 87. It is very rare to have legislation in place to force leaders to stand down at a given age. A US senator two years ago did propose 75 years as the cut-off point to be a presidential candidate, but the matter was never even discussed officially.

Old men over 70 are currently heads of state in two thirds of countries, mostly third world dictaorships. Research published by Business Insider suggests that historically such guys are at considerable risk of a violent death. In the last one hundred years, 40 percent of presidents and prime ministers have met their doom by assassination or in suspicious air crashes with the occasional suicide also thrown in. But if they made it into retirement, almost all died in bed of heart disease, cancer or a stroke.

Perhaps the last word on ageing and power should go to Brunhilde Pomsel, Joseph Goebbels' secretary, who died in 2017 at age 106. Asked what she remembered best about Adolf Hitler, she replied "Not a Thing!" before adding she couldn't give any more details as it was lunchtime.

The 60 days visa exempt and Destination Thailand Visa empower immigration officers. An interview between the Bangkok Post and a deputy director general of the foreign affairs ministry has clarified some visa ambiguities but left others to immigration discretion.- Pattaya Mail

The 60 days visa exempt and Destination Thailand Visa empower immigration officers

Pattaya MailJuly 27, 2024

The latest visa rules boost short term holidaymakers and "activity" tourists, but the rule book has ambiguities.

An interview between the Bangkok Post and a deputy director general of the foreign affairs ministry has clarified some visa ambiguities but left others to immigration discretion. The actual recording is, according to the newspaper, available only by downloading the digital web player Spotify. Naruchai Ninnad, representing the ministry, emphasized that the new policies were designed to increase foreign tourism, in accordance with the prime minister's desire to benefit the economy.

Khun Naruchai clarified that tourists from 93 countries receiving the visa-exempt 60 days on entry could indeed extend for a further 30 days at local immigration. They could then, if they wished, leave the country and return the following (not the same) day to obtain a new 60 days and repeat the whole procedure. This has implications for the celebrated, single-day border runs which have traditionally operated through agencies in Bangkok and the provinces. If implemented fully, repeat if, these tourists would need to pay for a night's accommodation in a foreign country, thus raising costs.

The deputy director general emphasized the number of repeatable visa exempts will depend on individual immigration officers who have absolute discretion. Accordingly, it appears that tourists could still be challenged with the cry "you come to Thailand too often without a visa". The interview also clarified that if visa-exempt tourists wanted to do ad hoc work – lasting fewer than 15 days – they needed to inform the immigration officer on entry or report to the employment ministry soon afterwards.

Turning to the new Destination Visa Thailand, available only at foreign embassies or via the e-portal of the foreign affairs ministry, Khun Naruchai emphasized that the main target group were digital nomads and remote workers employed by overseas companies. But applications are also welcome from "activity" based tourists, assuming they have suitable documentary evidence such as enrolment for Thai boxing or cookery classes. Or even as hospital patients. Another surprising category is "music festivals" though precisely what evidence and updates would be required for any of the above remains blurry. These matters are presumably for the discretion of the immigration officer on entry throughout the multiple-entry five years validity of the DTV.
Expats with one year extensions of stay based on marriage or retirement or the Elite visa are virtually ignored in the latest set of changes. It will probably be many months before the visa exempt and DTV ambiguities begin to clear up, so expats are probably safer to stick with what they have. Separately, any foreigner (with any visa or no visa at all) now residing in Thailand for 180 days or more in a calendar year is subject to taxation on "assessable" overseas income with many details yet to be unfolded. There is no elephant in the room. There are several.