Thailand Targets Tougher Alcohol Laws to Align with Global Norms. Thailand’s government is pushing forward with the Alcoholic Beverage Control Bill, which is slated for parliamentary submission next month as part of its effort to enhance alcohol regulation. ASEAN NOW

FILE photo courtesy: Wikipedia

 

Thailand's government is pushing forward with the Alcoholic Beverage Control Bill, which is slated for parliamentary submission next month as part of its effort to enhance alcohol regulation.

 

On Sunday, Nipon Chinanonwait, Director of the Ministry of Public Health's Office of Alcohol Control Committee, revealed the bill's progress, aiming to harmonise local laws with international standards.

 

Anticipated to be deliberated in January, alongside other related bills, the draft law focuses on the regulation of alcohol sales hours, potentially altering the current 2–5pm ban to match global norms.

However, round-the-clock sales will remain prohibited. Crucially, the bill proposes the establishment of provincial committees to enforce age restrictions robustly, ensuring minors have no access to alcohol.

 

This legislative push coincides with a recent plea from over 30 anti-alcohol advocacy groups, who submitted a petition to the Public Health Ministry on 6th December. These groups are calling for stricter controls on alcohol-related activities, such as "drinking games," which pose significant health and legal risks, including alcohol poisoning and unconsciousness.

 

Thanakrit Chit-areerat, the Vice Minister of the Ministry of Public Health, has voiced concerns over drink-driving, especially during the upcoming New Year celebrations. He has urged the public, particularly motorists, to remain sober, citing the long-term health risks young drinkers face.

 

In response to these concerns, the ministry plans to increase scrutiny of alcohol-selling establishments and enforce responsibilities among producers and vendors regarding public safety.

 

Additionally, a campaign against drink-driving has been launched by the Thai Health Promotion Foundation in collaboration with the Child Youth and Family Foundation, Life Quality Development Network, and Stop-Drink Network Thailand.

 

Rungarun Limlahaphan, Director of the Social and Health Risk Control Section at the Thai Health Promotion Foundation, reported a slight decline in national drinking rates, from 28.4% in 2017 to 28% in 2021.

 

Despite this decrease, binge drinking remains a critical issue, with over 5.7 million adults admitting to such behaviour last year. Notably, 34% of fatal accidents during last year's New Year festivities were attributed to drink-driving.

 

In light of the proposed legislative changes, road safety expert Thatchawut Jardbandista has cautioned that extending sales hours might exacerbate road safety issues. He advocates for the introduction of stiffer penalties, such as mandatory imprisonment for individuals caught driving under the influence.

 

As the government continues refining its approach to alcohol regulation, the impending debates in parliament will be pivotal in shaping Thailand's stance on aligning with international standards while addressing domestic concerns, reported Bangkok Post.

 

-- 2024-12-16

Thailands 2024 Tourist Arrivals Surpass 32 Million, 2025 Target Set at 40 Million. On December 11th, 2024, Mr. Adith Chairattananon, the Secretary-General of the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA), disclosed that Thailand recorded 32,719,298 international tourists from January 1st to December 8th, 2024, generating approximately 1.535 trillion baht in revenue.- The Pattaya News

Thailands 2024 Tourist Arrivals Surpass 32 Million, 2025 Target Set at 40 Million

Kittisak PhalaharnThursday, 12 December 2024, 14:18

National — 

On December 11th, 2024, Mr. Adith Chairattananon, the Secretary-General of the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA), disclosed that Thailand recorded 32,719,298 international tourists from January 1st to December 8th, 2024, generating approximately 1.535 trillion baht in revenue. 

The top five countries contributing to these figures were China with 6.32 million visitors, Malaysia with 4.58 million, India with 1.96 million, South Korea with 1.72 million, and Russia with 1.55 million. Monthly arrivals averaged over 2 million, with the year-end total expected to reach 35 million, aligning with the revised target of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

Although Thailand remains a favorite destination for its service quality, food, and accommodations, Adit highlighted persistent challenges, including underdeveloped transportation infrastructure and limited innovation in tourism products. 

Thailand also lags in digital advancements, such as online marketing and service platforms, which are crucial for attracting more tourists. Addressing these issues is seen as vital to maintaining competitiveness in the global market.

Looking forward to 2025, TAT has set a target of 40 million international arrivals, surpassing pre-pandemic numbers from 2019. The government, under the leadership of Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong, aims to achieve this through the "Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism & Sports Year 2025" campaign. Key strategies include:

1. Grand Festivity: Hosting major events year-round to attract tourists and enhance travel convenience.
2. Grand Moment: Offering exclusive VIP experiences and unique travel routes.
3. Grand Privilege: Promoting seamless shopping, tour packages, and payment solutions.
4. Grand Invitation: Inviting global icons, including musicians, athletes, and Nobel laureates, to share their experiences in Thailand.
5. Grand Celebration: Organizing special festivals and events to draw more visitors.

These initiatives aim to drive tourism growth during high and low seasons, particularly from May to October, by strengthening the market and ensuring Thailand remains a top global destination.

Massage Parlour Visits Turn Fatal: Singaporean Tourist and Thai Singer Die. These incidents have ignited a conversation on the safety and regulation of massage practices in Thailand. Massage is a cherished part of Thai culture, celebrated for its healing and relaxation benefits. However, these tragic cases highlight the potential risks involved, urging tourists and locals alike to approach massage services with caution and awareness. ASEAN NOW

FILE photo for reference only. Courtesy: Freepik

 

A holiday retreat in Thailand took a tragic turn when a Singaporean tourist and a Thai singer both reportedly died following massages in Phuket and Udon Thani.

 

Late last night, Lee Mun Tuck, a Singaporean tourist enjoying his stay in Phuket, met an unexpected fate. After a massage at a local parlour at Patong Beach, Lee collapsed and was later pronounced dead at Patong Hospital.

 

Authorities, led by Pol. Col. Chalermchai Hirasawat, are treating the situation with seriousness, with an autopsy underway to uncover the cause. While no visible wounds marred Lee's body, the suddenness of his death has left many in shock. Lee's unfortunate passing has prompted action from the Singaporean embassy to inform his relatives.

In a parallel event in Udon Thani, the loss of Thai singer Chanida Phraohom, known as Phing Chanida, has further stirred public concern. Chanida died today after an ordeal with a massage parlour that left her physically debilitated.

 

Her poignant social media posts reveal a harrowing account of her experience. What began as a routine shoulder massage to alleviate pain spiralled into a nightmare. Chanida described a sequence of treatments, during which her neck was manipulated, leaving her with severe pain, numbness, and eventual immobility.

 

Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV

 

Initially brushing off the discomfort as a typical post-massage soreness, Chanida's condition worsened after subsequent visits to the same parlour.

 

A third massage further aggravated her symptoms, leading to sensations of electric shocks and escalating numbness on her right side. Despite growing up with massages, as her mother was a masseuse, Chanida never anticipated such dire consequences.

 

These incidents have ignited a conversation on the safety and regulation of massage practices in Thailand. Massage is a cherished part of Thai culture, celebrated for its healing and relaxation benefits. However, these tragic cases highlight the potential risks involved, urging tourists and locals alike to approach massage services with caution and awareness.

 

For now, the families of Lee Mun Tuck and Phing Chanida mourn their untimely losses, as Thai authorities work to ensure that such tragedies are prevented in the future. Their stories serve as a sobering reminder of the importance of vigilance and safety in the pursuit of relaxation and relief.

 

As the investigations continue, the hospitality and wellness industries in Thailand may see heightened scrutiny and possibly new regulations, aiming to preserve the essence of Thai massage while safeguarding its patrons, reported Amarin TV.

 

-- 2024-12-09

Thailand tries again for anti-coup law. The government is planning to outlaw military coups once and for all even though previous attempts have fallen through administrative cracks. The proposals this time would establish a Cabinet-appointed committee to select generals and would empower subordinate military officers to refuse to obey their commander’s instruction to carry out a putsch.- Pattaya Mail

Thailand tries again for anti-coup law

Pattaya MailDecember 8, 2024

A lone demonstrator opposes the 2014 Thai coup d-etat.

SUNDAY EDITORIAL

The government is planning to outlaw military coups once and for all even though previous attempts have fallen through administrative cracks. The proposals this time would establish a Cabinet-appointed committee to select generals and would empower subordinate military officers to refuse to obey their commander's instruction to carry out a putsch. The prime minister would have the power to suspend from duty any military figures suspected of planning to overthrow the elected government. The overall intention would be to deprive coup makers of sovereignty or "ratthathipat".

Surprisingly, the proposals do not seem specifically to mention martial law. In May 2014 the Thai military imposed martial law amid a political crisis "to preserve law and order" but said the surprise move was not a coup. Soldiers took over TV and radio stations and blocked off roads in Bangkok. Then army chief Prayut Chan-o-cha called on rival parties to talk to each other and resolve the political crisis. When they failed to do so, general Prayut declared he was assuming the "supreme power".

New legislation will be opposed in parliament by minority parties which supported the former military-backed government. They are likely to say that street chaos and demonstration could happen again, or that radical politicians might try to compromise Thailand's revered monarchy. In any case, a successful military coup would obviously involve suspending the constitution and replacing it by a decree legitimizing the putsch. Historians have described a vicious cycle of Thai politics in which oftentimes unstable and democratically elected civilian governments alternate with military rule installed on the pretext of restoring order.

The best that can be said for Thai coups – 12 successful ones since 1932 – is that they put temporary sticking plaster over a wound ("ya saman pracham bahn"), and there is no evidence that they achieve higher economic growth than civilian administrations. The last coup-inspired government from 2014 saw a shrinking economy overall, although Thailand was the first country outside China to be hit by covid-19 which decimated international tourist revenue for several years.

As regards the future, anti-coup legislation in Thailand would obviously be useful if an attempted putsch failed as instanced by recent events in South Korea. Here, imposition of martial law was an immediate fiasco with impeachment now looking likely for the perpetrators. Thailand is safe from a coup as long as thousands of discontented people don't camp on the streets of Bangkok for weeks on end. But if politics sinks again to that level of ongoing conflict, best to sound the warning bell. As coup historian Timothy Snyder said, "Never underestimate the ability of the army to convince the public there isn't any alternative."

Government Cracks Down on Illegal Nominee Businesses. The Ministry of Commerce is intensifying its crackdown on nominee businesses operated by foreign nationals in Thailand. The directive, issued by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, seeks to address economic disruptions and illegal activities linked to these enterprises.- The Pattaya News

Government Cracks Down on Illegal Nominee Businesses

Goongnang SuksawatSaturday, 7 December 2024, 14:07

PRESS RELEASE:

The Ministry of Commerce is intensifying its crackdown on nominee businesses operated by foreign nationals in Thailand. The directive, issued by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, seeks to address economic disruptions and illegal activities linked to these enterprises.

Often tied to criminal networks, such businesses have been accused of defrauding Thai citizens and undermining local entrepreneurs. Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan has been tasked with leading a committee to devise measures against unlawful foreign enterprises and substandard products.

To tackle the issue, two subcommittees have been established: one to focus on preventing and suppressing nominee businesses and another to support Thai SMEs while regulating foreign goods. A key meeting, scheduled for December 9, is set to accelerate the implementation of short- and long-term measures to safeguard Thailand's business environment and protect local enterprises.

Recent enforcement operations by the Department of Business Development (DBD) and the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) targeted 46 locations, exposing violations committed by 442 legal entities with a combined registered capital of 1.189 billion baht. These entities, operating in sectors such as retail, tourism, cryptocurrency trading, and real estate, were found to be involved in activities such as online scams, money laundering, and other cybercrime.

A Memorandum of Understanding, signed recently between the two agencies, integrates business registration data with the CIB's Big Data system to enhance monitoring and identification of suspicious entities.

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

Thai PM Denies VAT Increase to 15 Percent, Reaffirms Economic Policy. On December 7th, 2024, government spokesperson Jirayu Huangsap dismissed rumors of increasing VAT from 7% to 15%, clarifying that Thai PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra firmly opposes such a move.- The Pattaya News

Thai PM Denies VAT Increase to 15 Percent, Reaffirms Economic Policy

Kittisak PhalaharnSaturday, 7 December 2024, 19:52

National —

On December 7th, 2024, government spokesperson Jirayu Huangsap dismissed rumors of increasing VAT from 7% to 15%, clarifying that Thai PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra firmly opposes such a move.

Paetongtarn emphasized that tax policy changes require gradual, well-researched implementation, often taking over a decade in other nations.

The government's priority remains reducing public expenses, enhancing state efficiency, and creating new income opportunities for citizens.

The administration pledged to make decisions carefully, consulting all sectors, and ensuring the best interests of the Thai people to drive sustainable national progress, according to Jirayu.

This effectively ends any speculation about such an increase happening anytime soon.

Read related articles about VAT 15%:

Public Input Urged on Proposed 15 Percent VAT Tax Reform Strategy.

Restaurant and Hotel Industries Fear Collapse Over Proposed 15 Percent VAT Hike.

Dual Pricing in Thai Tourism: Economic Necessity or Hidden Bias? Opinions diverge sharply on this issue. Critics label it as an unfavourable practice that creates a rift between locals and tourists. Many visitors feel targeted due to nationality-based pricing, viewing it as an implicit form of discrimination. ASEAN NOW

FILE photo for reference only

 

ANALYSIS

 

Thailand's dual pricing policy, where foreign tourists often pay more than locals at attractions, sparks ongoing conversation. This practice, grounded in economic rationale, sometimes stirs feelings of exclusion among visitors, leading to mixed reviews and accusations of inequity—although it's crucial to note the difference between nationality-based pricing and racial discrimination.

 

Visitors to popular destinations, such as temples and national parks, encounter this tiered pricing structure, which charges foreigners higher fees compared to local residents.

 

Supporters argue it boosts domestic tourism by offering locals affordable access to cultural sites and helps fund and sustain these attractions amidst the influx of foreign tourists. Defending this strategy, proponents assert it's necessary for the upkeep of the nation's cultural heritage, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

 

Opinions diverge sharply on this issue. Critics label it as an unfavourable practice that creates a rift between locals and tourists. Many visitors feel targeted due to nationality-based pricing, viewing it as an implicit form of discrimination.

While not racially motivated, this differential treatment based on nationality can unintentionally harm Thailand's reputation as a hospitable destination, provoking feelings of inequity among international travellers.

 

Furthermore, the higher costs could deter some tourists, potentially affecting Thailand's competitiveness compared to neighbouring nations without such policies. Charges for foreigners can be significantly steeper, leading tourists to question the fairness of paying more for identical experiences as locals.

 

Nevertheless, Thailand remains a magnetic tourist destination thanks to its diverse cultural offerings. Despite higher fees, many visitors continue to flock to its renowned sites, suggesting that the exotic appeal outweighs financial grievances, at least for now. Advocates for dual pricing insist that these funds are critical for sustaining the infrastructure and services that make the sites attractive and accessible to all visitors.

 

The challenge moving forward lies in balancing the financial needs of maintaining tourist attractions with maintaining Thailand's image as an open and inclusive environment for all travellers.

 

Exploring a more balanced pricing strategy that respects both local and global visitors might enhance Thailand's tourist appeal and mitigate feelings of exclusion. Transparent dialogue about the purpose and benefits could bridge divides, fostering a more understanding atmosphere among international guests and aligning economic strategies with Thailand's longstanding tradition of warm hospitality, reported Pattaya Mail.

 

-- 2024-12-06

Norse Atlantic Airways will fly from Stockholm to Bangkok. Effective October 29th 2025, Norse Atlantic will operate this route twice weekly, on Wednesdays and Sundays, with Boeing 787 Dreamliners that offer 338 seats in Premium and Economy cabins. One-way fares start from 2,550 SEK, and tickets are now available on www.flynorse.com.– Aeronews Global

Norse Atlantic Airways will fly from Stockholm to Bangkok

Teodor Stefan23-11-2024

Chaos at Don Mueang Airport as Singaporean Suspect Arrested for Bomb Threat. A bomb threat caused panic at Don Mueang Airport after a Singaporean man called to falsely claim there was a bomb aboard an AirAsia flight. Police acted swiftly, detaining the suspect and adding him to Thailand’s blacklist. ASEAN NOW

A bomb threat caused panic at Don Mueang Airport after a Singaporean man called to falsely claim there was a bomb aboard an AirAsia flight. Police acted swiftly, detaining the suspect and adding him to Thailand's blacklist.

 

On November 21, at 14:47, an individual speaking Thai with a Chinese accent called Don Mueang Airport's information desk, stating, "Do you know there's a bomb on the AirAsia flight to Hat Yai?" Authorities identified the flight as AirAsia FD 3114, carrying 162 passengers and six crew members.

 

At the time, the plane was taxiing for takeoff. Security immediately halted the aircraft and brought it back for inspection. Passengers were evacuated along with their belongings, and a thorough search was conducted. After no suspicious items were found, the emergency plan was lifted at 19:30. However, the incident caused significant disruptions to flight schedules and passenger plans.

  

Police Major General Choengron Rimpadee, spokesperson for the Immigration Bureau, reported that investigators traced the threatening call to Mr. Ho Wai Chong, a Singaporean national. Coordination between airport security, immigration, and Don Mueang Police revealed that the suspect had overstayed his visa by 28 days.

 

Authorities discovered Mr. Ho was still inside the airport. On November 22, at approximately 19:00, officers located and arrested him in the terminal. Upon questioning, he confessed, citing stress over family problems as his motive for the hoax.

 

Mr. Ho is now in custody at Don Mueang Police Station and faces multiple charges. Initial charges include overstaying his visa, with further charges under Thailand's 2015 Aviation Offenses Act, which criminalises false threats that cause panic or jeopardises aviation safety. Convictions under this law carry penalties of 5–15 years in prison and fines ranging from 200,000 to 600,000 baht.

 

Police revealed that Mr. Ho entered Thailand using an APEC Business Travel Card, allowing him frequent entry and exit. However, following his legal proceedings, he will be deported and permanently banned from re-entering Thailand.

 

Additionally, Don Mueang Airport, the airline, and affected passengers may pursue civil lawsuits for damages caused by the disruption.

 

Major General Choengron warned both Thais and foreigners against engaging in such reckless behaviour, emphasising the severe criminal and financial consequences. He stated, "This is not a joke. Such actions can lead to imprisonment, massive fines, and civil liabilities that outweigh any momentary thrill."

 

This incident serves as a stern reminder of the gravity of aviation-related threats and the consequences of such misconduct.

 

Picture of the suspect courtesy Matichon.

-- 2024-11-23

British lawyer latest to fall in Laos alcohol poisoning tragedy. A British lawyer has become the latest fatality of alcoholic poisoning in Laos taking the death toll to five people. The chilling incident has sent shockwaves across the globe. | Thaiger

British lawyer latest to fall in Laos alcohol poisoning tragedy

Bob ScottPublished: 09:23, 22 November 2024

Thai court delivers justice: Cyanide serial killer sentenced to death. The Criminal Court of Thailand delivered a nail-biting verdict today, sentencing the notorious cyanide serial killer to death for her chilling role in the murder of 14 innocent people. The Criminal Court wasn’t pulling any punches, as her accomplices didn’t get off lightly either. | Thaiger

Thai court delivers justice: Cyanide serial killer sentenced to death

Bob ScottPublished: 13:39, 20 November 2024

New Alcohol Control Bill Nearly Finalised; Set for December House Vote. ASEAN NOW

FILE photo courtesy: MGR online
 

The Alcoholic Beverage Control Bill is nearing completion and could be put before Thailand's parliament by mid-December. Leading the review, Mr Wisarn Techathirawat, head of the special scrutinising committee, stated the bill is now 80% complete.

 

Born out of five distinct drafts, the proposal underwent a demanding eight-month integration process.

 

The five preliminary drafts, originally submitted by various entities including the government, the Pheu Thai Party, and public health advocates, had unique approaches to alcohol control.

 

However, the committee has successfully amalgamated their key points into a single draft, currently 70–80% realised.

 

Central to the new legislation is the devolution of power to local provincial alcohol control committees. This move aims to empower these bodies with the authority to determine zoning areas and establish tailored regulations.

Discussions around the draft were held during a national conference on alcohol. Mr Wisarn remarked that alcohol prevention among youth remains a focal point.

 

As such, representatives from youth councils are set to join provincial committees. This ensures young voices influence pivotal decisions on alcohol zoning and sales restrictions.

 

The timeline is tight. By December 11, the bill should be ready for inclusion in the House of Representatives' draft agenda.

 

The new parliamentary season begins December 13, providing a narrow window for initial review. Mr Wisarn hopes parliament will prioritise this legislation.

 

One of the bill's principal aims is to tackle Thailand's increasing trend in alcohol consumption, especially among women.

 

Control of alcohol sales promotions is covered extensively, with the law envisaged to curb related societal issues like health risks and road accidents.

 

The legislation introduces strict penalties for selling alcohol to minors or visibly drunk persons, alongside empowering provincial committees with localised authority.

 

Such provisions promise to fundamentally alter how alcohol is regulated, fitting concerns of public health with practical governance adjustments, reported Bangkok Post.

 

-- 2024-11-19