Thai PM Paetongtarn Outlines 10 Urgent Policies for National Reform. On September 12th, 2024, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra delivered the government’s policy statement to the parliament, emphasizing 10 urgent policies aimed at tackling pressing national issues. - The Pattaya News

Thai PM Paetongtarn Outlines 10 Urgent Policies for National Reform

Kittisak PhalaharnThursday, 12 September 2024, 18:03

National —

On September 12th, 2024, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra delivered the government's policy statement to the parliament, emphasizing 10 urgent policies aimed at tackling pressing national issues. 

These include comprehensive debt restructuring, particularly for housing and auto loans, supporting both formal and informal debtors without compromising financial discipline. The government also aims to protect Thai SMEs from unfair competition, especially from foreign online platforms.

Other key measures include reducing energy and utility costs through energy price restructuring, negotiating overlapping claims with Cambodia to secure additional energy sources, and introducing single-rate fares for public transport in Bangkok. 

The government plans to create new revenue streams by integrating the informal economy into the tax system, supporting social welfare, education, and healthcare.

To boost the national economy, the government will launch the digital wallet scheme, prioritizing vulnerable groups, and modernize the agricultural sector to increase the value of agricultural products. Tourism will also be expanded through new attractions like entertainment complexes featuring casinos, hotels, and other leisure facilities.

Paetongtarn also addressed drug issues, vowing a comprehensive approach to eradicating narcotics, and pledged stronger efforts to combat crime, particularly online and transnational crimes. Additionally, the government aims to enhance social welfare systems and adjust them to the changing societal landscape. Cannabis shall be regulated for medical use and to protect youth, but not recriminalized as a narcotic.

Paetongtarn highlighted long-term national development plans, such as advancing Thailand's creative industries, soft power, and digital economy. She emphasized infrastructure development, including large-scale transportation projects, and improving land management to increase access to housing and farming opportunities.

On foreign policy, Paetongtarn reaffirmed Thailand's neutral stance in international conflicts, focusing on promoting peace and economic cooperation with other nations. The government also aims to strengthen the monarchy, promote a correct understanding of royal duties, and ensure that royal initiatives are continuously implemented.

Paetongtarn concluded by assuring the public of her dedication to governing with integrity, placing the people's interests at the forefront, and working to restore pride and dignity to the Thai nation.

Phuket Named World’s Most Overcrowded Destination Amid Tourism Boom. Phuket, Thailand’s picturesque island getaway, has earned the unfortunate distinction of being the world’s most overcrowded destination. Once renowned for its serene beaches and tranquil atmosphere, Phuket now sees tourists outnumbering locals by an astonishing 118 to one. ASEAN NOW

 

Phuket, Thailand's picturesque island getaway, has earned the unfortunate distinction of being the world's most overcrowded destination. Once renowned for its serene beaches and tranquil atmosphere, Phuket now sees tourists outnumbering locals by an astonishing 118 to one.

 

The issue of overtourism has been thrust into the spotlight since the global travel industry roared back to life post-Covid. Holidaymakers, eager to make up for lost time, have inundated many popular spots, putting immense pressure on local infrastructure and environments. Recently, Venice took the drastic step of introducing a tourist tax to curb the influx of visitors, joining Thailand, which imposed a similar levy earlier this year.

 

Other Thai holiday destinations such as Pattaya and Krabi also feature high on the list of crowded hotspots, ranking second and third, respectively. Meanwhile, Macau in China and Miami in the United States round out the top ten.

 

Phuket, the largest island in Thailand, boasts 90 miles of stunning coastline and world-famous beaches like Kata and Karon. Nevertheless, not all parts of the island are idyllic. Patong, the most popular resort area, is heavily crowded with tourists, beach gear, and vibrant nightlife, leading to a less than peaceful experience for many visitors.

 

 

 

 

One disillusioned tourist expressed their frustration: "Nothing could have prepared me for the hordes of people. The island, the beaches, even the tours to nearby islands felt overwhelmingly crowded."

 

Despite the throngs of visitors, there are still quieter corners of Phuket to be discovered. The northern and eastern regions of the island offer a more genuine Thai experience with fewer tourists and more affordable prices. However, the island's infrastructure is struggling to cope. The influx of tourists, particularly arriving on non-stop, large aircraft, has pushed Phuket to its limits.

 

In response, Thailand has implemented a 300-baht tourist tax on all airline tickets to the country. This measure aims to regulate the soaring visitor numbers, which plummeted from 40 million in 2019 to just 200,000 during the pandemic, before surging back dramatically.

 

The world's most overcrowded destinations:

(Source: MIrror, UK)

Phuket, Thailand

Pattaya, Thailand

Krabi, Thailand

Mugla, Turkey

Hurghada, Turkey

Macau, China

Heraklion, Greece

Venice, Italy

Rhodes, Greece

Miami, USA

 

TOP PictureL: file photo for reference only

 

-- 2024-09-12

Harsher Penalties for "Drunk Driving and Repeat Offenders" Demanded. Thai Health Promotion Foundation (THPF) is calling for stricter penalties for "drunk driving and repeat offenders" in collaboration with eight organizations, urging the government to amend laws. They propose tougher punishments and improved technology to reduce road accidents sustainably. ASEAN NOW

Thai Health Promotion Foundation (THPF) is calling for stricter penalties for "drunk driving and repeat offenders" in collaboration with eight organizations, urging the government to amend laws. They propose tougher punishments and improved technology to reduce road accidents sustainably.

 

At a recent event, "Two Years of Repeat Offenses in Drunk Driving and Law Enforcement in Thailand," Dr. Pairoj Saonuam of THPF highlighted the dangers of drunk driving, citing 284,253 deaths or injuries from 2019-2023, with economic losses of 370 billion baht.

 

During Songkran 2024, 207 drunk driving incidents were reported, underscoring the need for harsher penalties.

 

Their policy recommendations include short-term monitoring systems for offenses, medium-term tech enhancements like breathalyzers and fingerprint verification, and long-term legal amendments to increase penalties based on alcohol levels.

Mr. Surasit Silpongam of the Don't Drink and Drive Foundation emphasized the rising number of victims, while Dr. Chanin Chakkraphayotin suggested using Alcohol Interlock devices to prevent intoxicated drivers from starting their vehicles.

 

Major Pote Thapnadul of the Royal Thai Police stressed the need for improved tools and enforcement.

 

Lastly, Mr. Kosolwat Intujunyong from the Attorney General's Office pledged support for victims seeking justice and called for clear processes to prevent repeat offenders from escaping justice.

 

Image by jcomp on Freepik

 

-- 2024-09-12

Finnair Increases Flights to Asia and the Middle East, Including Phuket. From November 2, the airline will start offering daily flights from Helsinki to Phuket, an increase from the current four flights per week. ASEAN NOW

 

Finnair is offering more flight options to the Middle East and Asia this winter, as part of a major expansion of their flight schedule. Starting in November, Finnair, the national airline of Finland, will boost its flights to popular destinations including Phuket and Dubai due to an increased demand from European tourists seeking warm weather.

 

From November 2, the airline will start offering daily flights from Helsinki to Phuket, an increase from the current four flights per week. Similarly, the Helsinki-Dubai route will see an increase to daily flights, up from the current three times a week. This change underlines the growing popularity of these sun drenched destinations. A spokesperson for the airline stated that they were excited to offer more flexibility for those looking to escape the winter.

 

This increased flight schedule enhances Finnair's already expansive network across Asia and the Middle East. The airline operates daily flights to various cities including Bangkok, Tokyo, and Doha, ensuring seamless connections for those travelling for either business or pleasure.

 

 

 

 

Phuket is popular with tourists due to its beautiful beaches and lively nightlife, while Dubai's modern architecture, luxury shopping, and sunny weather all year round attract a wide variety of visitors.

 

Finnair's use of a modern, fuel-efficient fleet, including Airbus A350 and A330aircraft, supports their efforts towards sustainability and reduces their environmental impact. The airline has set a goal to reduce emissions by 50% by 2025, according to Travel and Tour World.

 

File photo for reference only

 

-- 2024-09-10

Thai Government to Roll Out 10,000 Baht Cash Payments in Digital Wallet Scheme - The Pattaya News

Thai Government to Roll Out 10,000 Baht Cash Payments in Digital Wallet Scheme

Kittisak PhalaharnTuesday, 10 September 2024, 10:51

National —

On September 9th, 2024, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Phumtham Wechayachai revealed details about the 10,000-baht digital wallet scheme, set to be discussed at the first Cabinet meeting on September 17th.

Phumtham confirmed that the Thai government would proceed, with slight modifications for public assurance. The plan now includes providing cash to the 30 million registered individuals on the Thang Raj application.

In the first phase, vulnerable groups—around 14 million people—will receive 10,000 baht in cash. This distribution, using the 2024 budget, will be transferred to existing accounts and can be spent anywhere, without restrictions on stores or products, aiming to stimulate the economy.

Once the Cabinet approves, distribution is expected by late September, remarked Phumtham.

The government plans a second phase for the remaining registered individuals, who are not in the vulnerable group. They will initially receive 5,000 baht in cash by the end of 2024, with the remaining 5,000 baht possibly distributed via digital wallets in 2025, depending on system readiness, according to Phumtham.

Phumtham emphasized that while the project has faced criticism, the government remains committed, aiming to both stimulate the economy and prepare the public for digital integration. The first phase is expected to inject around 140 billion baht into the economy, with the total impact from both phases reaching 280-300 billion baht.

Fears of Price Hikes and Unemployment as 400 Baht Minimum Wage Set for October 1st. On September 10th, 2024, Thai national media reported that Thai private sector operators in the Upper Northeastern region expressed concerns about the nationwide minimum wage increase to 400 baht per day, set to take effect on October 1st.- The Pattaya News

Fears of Price Hikes and Unemployment as 400 Baht Minimum Wage Set for October 1st

Kittisak PhalaharnTuesday, 10 September 2024, 15:50

Legal Corner: What is The Proposed Electronic Travel Authorization System For Thailand? Over the past week there has been a lot of discussion around proposals for an Electronic Travel Authorization system to enter Thailand. A lot of confusing and mixed information has come out, including some travel blogs that claimed it was already in effect (It is not, at least for most countries) and that it was a surefire thing to arrive in December. (Also a no.)- The Pattaya News

Legal Corner: What is The Proposed Electronic Travel Authorization System For Thailand?

Adam JuddMonday, 9 September 2024, 1:09

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Over the past week there has been a lot of discussion around proposals for an Electronic Travel Authorization system to enter Thailand. A lot of confusing and mixed information has come out, including some travel blogs that claimed it was already in effect (It is not, at least for most countries) and that it was a surefire thing to arrive in December. (Also a no.)

Therefore, The  Pattaya News with our friends at Anglo Siam Legal that also grand opens this week in Pattaya would like to set the record straight. It's important to note all this information is a proposal and preliminary and as such highly subject to change, especially with a brand new government in place. We can't be any more clear that it's too early to panic over this and that like many things in Thailand, this could suddenly change. 

The proposed Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system for Thailandrepresents a significant update to the country's immigration and tourism policies, aimed at enhancing security, managing visitor flows, and simplifying entry processes for foreigners. Here's an overview based on the information available up to September 8th, 2024. Again, this is a proposal, not a set in stone, guaranteed to happen plan:

– Purpose and Scope: The ETA system is designed to act as a pre-arrival security check for foreigners who are currently eligible for visa-free entry into Thailand. This includes nationals from over 100 countries. The system's introduction is part of a broader strategy to manage and monitor the influx of tourists while ensuring national security, according to the Thai government.

– Implementation Timeline: The ETA system is currently set for a limited pilot launch by December 2024, with full implementation expected by June 2025. This phased approach allows for testing and refinement before a complete rollout. These dates, as noted, could suddenly change and as December is the busiest month of the year we feel that it very well may. 

– Functionality: Unlike a visa, the ETA is more akin to a digital authorization that must be obtained before travel. It's not a physical document but a digital approval that facilitates entry through automated passport gates at immigration checkpoints. The application for an ETA will be processed online via Thailand's official e-Visa website. Thailand claims the process will be simple, fast, and hassle free…but anyone who has had experience with prior systems like Thailand Pass during Covid or even the Immigration online 90 day check-in system has been skeptical about this promise. 

– Application Process: While specific requirements for the ETA application are yet to be fully disclosed, including if longer term visa holders coming and going may need one, it's anticipated that travelers might need to provide proof of accommodation, outbound travel, and possibly other personal details. The ETA is expected to be free of charge, distinguishing it from other countries' systems where fees might apply. Again, it's too early for one to speculate or panic over the requirements.

– Impact on Travel: This system will in theory require all visa-exempt foreigners entering Thailand by air, land, or sea to obtain an ETA. It's designed to be a one-time authorization per entry, meaning travelers would need to apply for a new ETA for each visit to Thailand, unlike some other ETA systems that offer multi-entry over several years. Again, however, this could change. 

Many countries, we note, have similar systems that work fairly well, like Malaysia and Singapore or the US. The concern from many of our readers however is Thailand over complicating the system and requiring excessive steps, information, details, etc. There are also concerns about the security of personal information and possible technical failures such as mystery rejections, as seen with Thailand Pass during Covid or the Immigration online check in system.

For now, we emphasize once again that it is too early for people to worry about this in detail regarding their future trips and Thailand is well aware that putting any barriers to tourism or making things difficult for tourists will hurt their ever important tourism industry.

As more information is released we will let you know all that we learn here at TPN Media and Anglo Siam Legal.

Consider reaching out to Anglo Siam Legal for assistance with any problems you may have had or questions regarding legal matters, including legal issues around visas.

Upcoming changes to Thailand’s 60 days visa exempt. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is boosting the introduction of the new ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) which will be compulsory for visa exempt foreigners each and every time before they enter Thailand by air, land or sea.- Pattaya Mail

Upcoming changes to Thailand's 60 days visa exempt

Pattaya MailSeptember 5, 2024

Visa exempt tourists will need prior approval next year.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is boosting the introduction of the new ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) which will be compulsory for visa exempt foreigners each and every time before they enter Thailand by air, land or sea. Although the ETA is not technically a visa, it is certainly a computerized check rather like the upcoming ETIAS program for visa exempt visitors to the European Union's Schengen area which is designed to enhance security, discourage irregular migration and monitor high epidemic risks. Email confirmation that entry is permitted will normally be issued within 24 hours.




Thailand's 60 days visa exempt policy for 93 countries – in reality covering the vast majority of foreign tourists – was introduced in mid-July. No prior approval is required and the 60 days can become 90 days by applying at a Thai immigration office. It is then possible to leave the country for an hour or so – using the border run minibus tours widely available – and repeat the whole process. Indefinitely, as many people believe, making it questionable whether foreigners need bother with Elite, retirement extensions, family visas etc etc.

The advent of the ETA is scheduled for a phased entry in Thailand between December 2024 and June 2025 and is expected to be free. It will apply solely to visa exempt arrivals and require an application to the e-portal www.thaievisa.go.thwhich is fast becoming the entry norm for most visitors here across the board. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has not yet published the fine print, so nobody yet knows what documents will need to be uploaded as part of the vetting procedure. One possibility is the need to show an accommodation address in Thailand as well as a flight out of the country in addition to an inward-bound ticket. A similar system is operated in Malaysia as well as, in part anyway, Cambodia. ETAs in fact are becoming universal.

Another unknown is whether the algorithm-based ETA system will include trigger points to limit the number of 60 days entries for an individual. Until July of this year, Thai immigration limited visa-free entrants to two border trips in a year but has since apparently rescinded the rule. The ETA could reimpose limitations with a computerized rejection slip (rather than a human immigration officer) curtly informing that "you need to get a proper visa". The ETA will not be required for diplomats, but there appears to be no exemption for tourists over the age of 70. Some countries use such an exemption as many older people are believed to be non-computer literate.




Once granted, the ETA email authorization sent to applicants will allow entry through electronic immigration gates by using the QR code on the document. The ETA computerized checks will include passport authenticity, any record of criminal or outrageous behavior in Thailand and any relevant Interpol notices. These are the same checks as currently undertaken by immigration officers at airports or border posts. But they can be time-consuming or lead to arguments which will be avoided in the ETA system.

As with the completely separate Thai personal income tax move for Thais and foreigners living in Thailand for 180 days or more in a calendar year, there is much we do not know about the ETA except that it's coming for sure. Will airline staff be expected to check for the email before boarding? The ETA could even be linked to tax issues as repeated use of visa exempt (or the Destination Thailand Visa if extended at immigration) would identify these individuals as tax residents once they remit funds into the country. Hopefully, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will be forthcoming well in advance about the many details within their cognizance.

Danish Expat Faces Prison. Pattaya One News / Extrabladet



UPDATE: Phuket Landslide Death Toll Raised to 10 - The Pattaya News

UPDATE: Phuket Landslide Death Toll Raised to 10

Goongnang SuksawatFriday, 23 August 2024, 21:02

Phuket –

Ten people have been found dead including two Russian nationals while one person is believed to be still missing after a landslide in Karon on Friday early in the morning (August 23^rd).

Our previous story:

Nine people were found dead in their accommodations after a comprehensive search was launched at four points in the area. Of those two were a Russian couple. Two people are believed to be still missing.

Now for the update:

The Phuket City District Chief Mr. Worasit Putjeep told the Phuket Express that at 4:30 P.M. rescue workers found one more body who was identified only as a female Thai, with further information withheld pending contacting her relatives.

The death toll has subsequently been raised from 9 to 10. One person is believed to be still missing. However, the search has been paused at 8:00 P.M. due to the lack of light and will be continued again in the daytime tomorrow (August 24th).

Of those 10 deaths, two were a Russian couple, three were males from Myanmar, three were females from Myanmar and two were female Thais from Sakhon Nakhon and Surat Thani.

All the details of the deceased were also withheld by Phuket authorities as relatives and embassies, where applicable, were contacted.

The original version of this article appeared on our sister website, The Phuket Express, owned by our parent company TPN media.

This is a developing story.

Thailand likely detects a new, more dangerous mpox variant. Thailand announced on Wednesday a probable first case of a new lethal variant of mpox, which the World Health Organization (WHO) has termed a worldwide health crisis. ASEAN NOW

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Thailand announced on Wednesday a probable first case of a new lethal variant of mpox, which the World Health Organization (WHO) has termed a worldwide health crisis.

 

The affected person likely carrying the strain is a European visitor who traveled from Africa to Thailand, according to Thongchai Keeratihattayakorn, the Chief of Thailand's Disease Control Department.

 

The individual is currently isolated in a hospital while lab tests are being done to identify the strain, thought to be Clade 1.

 

Thongchai confirmed that the patient has mpox, but it's crucial to verify that it's not the Clade 2 variant. He showed certainty that the individual has the Clade 1 variant, but the final lab result is still two days away.

 

Over the past few months, mpox has seen a surge in Africa with outbreaks reported in countries like the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda.

 

Mpox is a virus-caused disease that spreads from infected animals to humans through close physical contact, causing symptoms like fever, muscle pain, and large skin sores similar to boils.

 

Although mpox has been known for decades, a new and more lethal strain known as Clade 1b has recently caused a surge in mpox cases.

 

According to the WHO, the Clade 1b variant results in death in about 3.6% of cases, with children being more susceptible. The virus, previously named monkeypox, was first identified in 1958 within research monkeys in Denmark.

 

The Democratic Republic of Congo reported over 16,000 cases and 500 deaths from mpox this year alone.

 

On August 15, the first case of the Clade 1 variant was confirmed outside Africa in Sweden.

 

File photo for reference only

 

-- 2024-08-21

8 Mpox subvariants found in Thailand cause only mild disease. Department of Medical Sciences, which has identified 8 sub-variants of the Mpox virus, confident that outbreak can be prevented. The Nation

8 Mpox subvariants found in Thailand cause only mild disease

Department of Medical Sciences, which has identified 8 sub-variants of the Mpox virus, confident that outbreak can be prevented

Urgent Surveillance Recommended for Mpox Variant in Thailand. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has already classified the ongoing outbreak within these African regions as a public health emergency of international concern. ASEAN NOW

FILE - Dr Yong Poovorawan. Picture courtesy: MGR online

 

Thailand's foremost virologist, Dr Yong Poovorawan, has emphasised the critical need for vigilant monitoring of the latest 'Clade 1b' Mpox (monkeypox) variant. This call to action follows the variant's concerning spread across central and eastern Africa.

 

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has already classified the ongoing outbreak within these African regions as a public health emergency of international concern.

 

Originating in the Democratic Republic of Congo, this outbreak has resulted in at least 450 fatalities. The new variant's rapid progression and high mortality rate have scientists particularly alarmed.

 

Mpox is notorious for its ease of transmission, spreading through direct contact such as unprotected sex, skin-to-skin interaction, and airborne particles from close-range talking or breathing. Symptoms include flu-like signs and distinctive skin lesions. The disease is severe, with approximately 4% of cases being fatal.

 

Dr Yong, who leads the Centre of Excellence in Clinical Virology at Chulalongkorn University's Faculty of Medicine, used his Facebook platform on Sunday to draw attention to the urgency of monitoring the 'Clade 1b' variant. He highlighted the necessity of preventive strategies, especially for children, given the prohibitively high cost of the current vaccine.

 

He further mentioned the importance of researching whether reducing the vaccine dosage could potentially retain its effectiveness, making it more viable for widespread use.

 

Anan Jongkaewwattana from the National Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology echoed Dr Yong's concerns. He clarified that the WHO's emergency declaration was due to the variant's rapid spread rather than its discovered severity.

 

With these points in mind, it's evident that Thailand must take proactive measures to track and manage the potential threat of this new Mpox variant, ensuring public health safety remains uncompromised.

 

-- 2024-08-20