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- Thai beauty queen sparks online drama over airline seat
A misunderstanding involving Thai beauty queen Nampech Teeyapa and renowned YouTuber Spin9 has sparked significant online drama.
Nampech criticised an airline for providing a lower-grade seat than she expected despite paying nearly 400,000 baht, which she believed would secure her a Qsuite seat. However, her ticket was for a standard business class seat on a Boeing 777-300ER, which does not feature Qsuite or Premium Economy seating as she had thought.
The beauty queen’s initial outrage appeared to be directed solely at the airline but the situation escalated when she tagged Spin9, a popular tech and travel reviewer, in an Instagram story. In her post, she accused Spin9 of misleading content and seeking engagement at her expense.
“When booking tickets, it clearly states which flights have Qsuite and which don’t, with different prices. Who is really at fault here, Spin9? Don’t just make your content famous at the expense of others. You benefit from free reviews, but others are genuinely affected. Don’t add to their troubles.”
Nampech mistakenly believed that Spin9’s content had referenced her specific issue with the airline, but Spin9’s video had been created three months earlier. This was clarified by Spin9’s wife, Suching, who responded on social media.
“Nampech, have you misunderstood something? Spin9 has never mentioned or known you before being tagged today. The website that wrote about you referenced Spin9’s earlier review. Please read carefully and post a new story to apologise.”
Realising her mistake, Nampech later apologised via her Instagram story, stating that she had resolved the misunderstanding with Spin9. She acknowledged that Spin9 had not created any content about her but maintained that her confusion was understandable. She urged everyone to avoid further drama and mentioned her willingness to take legal action if necessary.
Despite Nampech’s attempts to settle the matter, social media users continued to discuss her actions. Many criticised her for not fully grasping her mistake and dragging an unrelated party into the dispute. While she expressed a desire to move past the issue, her comments about seeking benefits and readiness to go to court kept the conversation going, reported KhaoSod.
By Puntid Tantivangphaisal
Photo courtesy of KhaoSod
Full story: The Thaiger 2024-07-26
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26 July 26 20241333918 - Biothai Links Thai Farm to Blackchin Tilapia Spread
The Biothai Foundation has revealed striking claims regarding the rapid proliferation of the Blackchin tilapia fish species in Thailand, asserting that the invasive spread can be linked to a single source: the Yeesarn fish farm in Samut Sakhon’s Ampawa district, operated by Charoen Pokphand Foods (CPF).
Witoon Lianjamroon, the secretary-general of Biothai Foundation, shared these allegations during a seminar held yesterday.
He underscored that CPF has been the sole private company authorised by the Fisheries Department to import Blackchin tilapia into Thailand since 2010. This exclusivity places CPF in the spotlight as the primary suspect in the current ecological disruption.
Lianjamroon cited reports from the Fisheries Department, which detailed how the Yeesarn fish farm, nestled among numerous local canals like Don Jan, Luang, Jek, Somboon, Saphan Han, Tamon, and Phi Lok, utilises these waterways for its operations.
He contended that breaches in bio-safety protocols at this fish farm facilitated the release and subsequent spread of the invasive species.
The ripple effects of this breach have been significant. The National Human Rights Commission, tasked with probing the impact of invasive species on local communities, has identified the Yeesarn fish farm as a critical failure point.
Their findings suggest that the Blackchin tilapia has not just contaminated local canals but has also infiltrated fish and shrimp farms in Samut Sakhon and the neighbouring province of Phetchaburi.
Lianjamroon criticised the misleading public statements suggesting that all 2,000 imported Blackchin tilapia had perished within 16 days of arrival in Thailand, with proper disposal measures purportedly taken. He argued that this narrative was constructed to downplay the severity of the ecological invasion.
The Biothai Foundation, affiliated with the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) Watch group, continually monitors the impacts of international trade agreements on resources and small-scale farmers. Their analysis suggests this incident underscores the need for stringent bio-safety measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Picture courtesy: Thai PBS
-- 2024-07-27
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27 July 27 20241333955 - Thaksin Says He's Too Old to Run for PM Again at 75
Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has declared he is too old to return to Thailand’s top political post. Despite his retirement from active politics, Thaksin hinted he might still guide his daughter, Pheu Thai Party leader Paetongtarn, but only in a private and advisory capacity.
Today, Thaksin marked his 75th birthday at his Ban Chan Song La residence surrounded by family, close friends, and prominent Pheu Thai party members. Among those present were Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit,
Pheu Thai Secretary-General Sorawong Thienthong, deputy party leader Chusak Sirinil, and Deputy Interior Minister Kriang Kaltinan. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, however, was absent, engaged on official business in Nakhon Phanom province.
Thaksin, set to complete his parole by August 22, mentioned that he does not anticipate holding any political office post-parole. He openly shared that he will continue to depend on the government's monthly elderly subsidy of 700 baht, reported Thai PBS
The former PM indicated no concern about Prime Minister Srettha potentially losing his position due to a Constitutional Court ruling set for August 14. The court will decide on the legitimacy of Srettha's appointment of Pichit Chuenban as PM Office Minister.
Thaksin expressed confidence that the prime minister acted in good faith and would be able to defend his decision adequately.
Amid these political uncertainties, the focus of today was clearly personal and celebratory. Yesterday, a pre-birthday event for Thaksin hosted at a hotel in Bangkok’s Phaya Thai district saw only close friends and colleagues come together to honour the political veteran.
Despite his proclaimed political retirement, Thaksin’s influence on Thai politics remains significant, particularly through his daughter and the Pheu Thai party, ensuring his legacy endures.
Thaksin Says He's Too Old to Run for PM Again at 75
Picture courtesy: Thai PBS
-- 2024-07-27
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26 July 26 20241333953 - Thailand eases visa rules to attract long-term visitors
New visa regulations issued by Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs have made it significantly easier to visit and stay in the country long-term. The number of countries eligible for visa-free entry has increased from 57 to 93, now including India and China.
Visitors from these countries will receive a 60-day entry stamp, which can be extended for another 30 days at an immigration office. Additionally, certain types of short-term work in Thailand, up to 15 days, are permitted with prior permission from a labour office or at the airport.For travellers from countries not on the visa exemption list, the visa-on-arrival option has expanded to 31 countries, up from the previous 19. However, this visa allows a single-entry stay of only 15 days and costs 2,000 baht.
Retirement visa holders will benefit from a reduction in the minimum health insurance coverage requirement, which has decreased from 3 million baht to 400,000 baht. This change aims to make it more accessible for retirees to live in Thailand.
Foreign students at Thai colleges and universities, numbering around 40,000, are now allowed to stay for one year after graduation. Previously, they were required to leave the country immediately after completing their courses. These graduates will also be able to take jobs in their field of study, enhancing their career prospects within Thailand.
The new Destination Thailand visa has garnered significant attention from those wishing to stay in the country for extended periods. This visa permits stays of up to 180 days, with the potential to extend up to a year in total. However, this visa is subject to specific eligibility criteria and requirements.Visa process
Naruchai Ninnad, a senior official in Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs who played a key role in devising the new rules, elaborated on these changes in a recent interview. Ninnad highlighted the efforts made to streamline the visa process and accommodate the needs of various groups of visitors and expatriates.
“These new regulations are part of our ongoing efforts to make Thailand more accessible and welcoming to international visitors and long-term residents.”
The changes reflect Thailand’s commitment to boosting tourism and making the country an attractive destination for retirees, students, and professionals. The visa reforms are expected to have a positive impact on the country’s economy and international relations.
By expanding the list of countries eligible for visa-free entry and visa-on-arrival, Thailand aims to encourage more tourists and business travellers to visit and explore the country. The extension of stay periods and the introduction of the Destination Thailand visa are likely to attract more long-term visitors, contributing to the growth of the local economy.
As Thailand continues to adapt its visa policies, these changes signify a step towards a more inclusive and flexible approach to international travel and residency. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is expected to monitor the impact of these regulations and make further adjustments as needed to ensure that Thailand remains a top destination for visitors from around the world, reported Bangkok Post.by Bob Scott
Thailand eases visa rules to attract long-term visitorsSource: The Thaiger 2024-07-26
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26 July 26 20241333884 - Thailand’s economy to grow 2.7% this year
Thailand’s economy is projected to grow 2.7% this year, an increase from the previous forecast of 2.4%, driven by higher foreign tourist arrivals and stronger exports, according to the Ministry of Finance.Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul highlighted the positive outlook, attributing it to improving economic conditions among trading partners. He noted that growth could potentially reach 3% this year, contingent on the implementation of forthcoming policies.
“We see positive signs from exports due to improving economic growth from trading partners, It’s a good number, but we have to do better.”
The growth forecast does not include the impact of a 450-billion-baht (US$12.5 billion) cash handout scheme set to be introduced in the fourth quarter. Paopoom mentioned that this initiative could contribute an additional 1.2 to 1.8 percentage points to the growth rate.
Exports are anticipated to rise by 2.7% this year, surpassing the earlier forecast of 2.4%.
Tourism remains a crucial component of The Thaiger’s economy, the second-largest in Southeast Asia. The ministry now expects 36 million foreign arrivals this year, who are likely to stay longer and spend an estimated 1.69 trillion baht more, thanks to relaxed visa requirements.The previous forecast expected 35.7 million foreign arrivals with projected spending of 1.59 trillion baht, Paopoom added.
Last year, the Thai economy expanded by 1.9%, a slower pace than anticipated and below the 2.5% growth recorded in 2022.
The ministry also observed that the baht is expected to trade at an average of 36.2 baht per dollar, slightly weaker than the 36 baht seen in April, due to capital outflows in the first half of the year, reported Bangkok Post.
by Sarishti Arora
Picture courtesy of Tom De Decker from pexels.comSource: The Thaiger 2024-07-27
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27 July 27 20241333961 - Thaksin Unfazed by Impeachment Case Against PM Srettha
Thaksin Shinawatra, former Thai prime minister and influential political figure, reassured reporters today that he feels no concern regarding the impeachment lawsuit filed against current Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin.
Speaking from his Chan Song Lah residence, Thaksin stated the case against Srettha appears baseless, asserting that the Prime Minister had acted "transparently and honestly" in his appointment of Pichit Chuenban to the Prime Minister’s Office.
Pichit, a former lawyer for Thaksin, was granted a ministerial seat in the Pheu Thai-led cabinet earlier this year. However, the decision drew criticism and legal scrutiny, culminating in the current impeachment proceedings.
The impeachment case, filed by a group of 40 senators, alleges that Srettha breached the constitution and ethical guidelines by appointing Pichit, who has a criminal record.
Although Pichit resigned amidst mounting pressure, the senators argue that the illegality of his appointment remains and constitutes sufficient grounds for Srettha’s impeachment.
Despite these challenges, Thaksin expressed confidence in Srettha's ability to defend himself, highlighting his belief that the prime minister did not intentionally violate any laws. The Constitutional Court is set to deliver its verdict on August 14. If found guilty, Srettha could be removed from office, throwing the Pheu Thai party into turmoil.
The stakes are high not only for Srettha but also for Thaksin, whose political legacy and influence continue to loom large over Thai politics. Thaksin insisted that the process was above board and compliant with legal and ethical standards, dismissing the lawsuit as politically motivated.
As the August 14 hearing approaches, all eyes in Thailand remain fixed on the Constitutional Court, which will determine the future of the Srettha administration and potentially reshape the political landscape.
Thaksin Shinawatra. Photo courtesy: Siam Rath
-- 2024-07-27
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27 July 27 20241333958 - Passport Sales Arrest Sparks Thai PM's Crackdown on Gray Capital
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has ordered a strict crackdown on gray capital operations following the shocking discovery of a billboard at Bangkok's Huai Khwang intersection advertising the sale of passports from four countries.
In recent weeks, government agencies have been on high alert for any influx of illegal capital disguised as tourism. Srettha recently held talks with Pol. Lt. Gen. Thiti Sangsawang, the Metropolitan Police Commissioner, to delve into the advertisement incident. He has called for a thorough investigation to uproot the issue at its core.
"I don't want to say too much as it could jeopardize the case," Srettha commented, promising the public that efforts are underway to address this disturbing trend.
Pol. Lt. Gen. Itthiphol Itthisarnronchai, the Immigration Bureau Commissioner, along with Pol. Lt. Gen. Thiti and other authorities, spearheaded the investigation. Their efforts led to the arrest of a Chinese couple: Xin Ling, 33, and his wife, Su Na, 35, who were implicated in this clandestine passport trade.
Xin Ling, identified as a fugitive and wanted in China for document forgery, was apprehended at Don Mueang International Airport while trying to leave the country. Thai immigration officials have since revoked his permission to stay in Thailand, and a deportation order has been issued.
Authorities uncovered evidence on Xin Ling's phone that implicated his wife, Su Na, in the passport sales operation.
She confessed to using her husband's phone to contact potential clients but insisted no transactions had taken place. Su Na has been charged with working without a permit, sentenced to four months in prison, and fined 5,000 baht.
However, her sentence has been suspended for one year, and she has been blacklisted from entering Thailand again.
This high-profile crackdown indicates the Thai government's robust stance against illegal operations, promising further measures to prevent similar activities in the future.
Billboard in Bangkok. Picture courtesy: Thai PBS
-- 2024-07-27
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27 July 27 20241333957 - Over 5 Million Domestic Tourists Expected During July Long Holidays in Thailand
The government estimates that over 5 million domestic tourists will travel within Thailand during the long weekend in July 2024, generating more than 18 billion Baht in economic activity.
According to Government Spokesperson Chai Wacharonke, the promotion of domestic tourism aligns with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin's policy to stimulate the Thai tourism market.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) projects that the extended holiday period will attract significant numbers of tourists, with the Central region expected to receive the highest number of visitors at 1.17 million trips, followed by Bangkok with about 948,000 trips, and the Northeastern region with 932,000 trips.
In terms of revenue, Bangkok is anticipated to generate the most income at 4.781 billion Baht, followed by the Eastern region at 4.06 billion Baht, and the Southern region at 3.01 billion Baht.
A survey conducted by the Federation of Thai Industries indicates that most Thai people plan to travel within their own provinces or nearby areas during the holidays. The survey shows that 34% plan to travel within their own province, 14% to nearby provinces, and 25% to other regions during the Asalha Puja and Buddhist Lent holidays. For His Majesty the King's 72nd birthday anniversary, 29% plan to travel within their province, 10% to nearby provinces, and 16% to other regions.
In response to these travel trends, the TAT, in collaboration with other agencies, has organized a series of events and promotions to encourage tourism across the five regions of Thailand. These include campaigns in the North, such as the "Amazing Northern Retreat Month" and "Chiang Rai Fashion to the World." Similar initiatives are planned for the Central, Eastern, and Southern regions to promote local tourism and boost economic activity.
By Naark Rojanasuvan
Photo: NNT
Full story: NNT 2024-07-26
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26 July 26 20241333939 - High hopes: Anutin’s green light for cannabis bill in Thailand
Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul expressed confidence yesterday that the cannabis control bill will be enacted within the tenure of the current coalition government. Meanwhile, a health advocacy group has pushed for a complete ban on recreational cannabis use.The Bhumjaithai Party submitted an initial version of the bill to the House last September. The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) has since prepared another draft for former Health Minister Cholnan Srikaew to present alongside the Bhumjaithai draft, according to Anutin.
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin reversed a prior government decision on Tuesday, July 23, regarding the reclassification of cannabis as a narcotic drug. Cannabis was decriminalised two years ago.Asked about the likelihood of the bill gaining enough support from coalition parties, Anutin expressed strong optimism, citing two main reasons.
“I believe in the PM’s commitment and clear order (to push to pass the bill), and now this coalition has up to 314 votes to cast in support of the cannabis control bill, unlike the past coalition, which only had 253 votes to do so (when the bill was voted down.”PM Srettha instructed the MoPH on May 8 to amend regulations to allow cannabis to be reclassified as a narcotic drug, while still permitting its use strictly for medical and health promotion purposes.
The health advocacy group, leading a public campaign to reclassify cannabis as a narcotic, argued that the Thai premier’s decision to instead push for new regulations would leave loopholes for recreational use. The group presented scientific evidence linking increased cannabis abuse to rising health and mental problems.In a statement yesterday, the group urged the government to first reclassify cannabis as a narcotic to prevent abuse. They advocated for a subsequent urgent law to permit its use strictly for medical purposes, reported Bangkok Post.
Bangkok“We believe this proposal is an ideal solution to all existing conflicts among parties with different opinions on the matter.”
The ongoing debate highlights the complexities and differing opinions surrounding cannabis regulation in Thailand.
By Bob Scott
Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post
BangkokSource: The Thaiger 2024-07-26
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26 July 26 20241333881 - Syphilis cases triple among Thai teens, fivefold increase in pregnant women
The Department of Disease Control (DDC) reported a significant increase in sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) among Thai people, particularly syphilis. Cases of syphilis among teenagers have tripled compared to previous years and the number of pregnant women with syphilis has increased fivefold.
DDC spokesperson Weerawat Manosutthi reported today, July 23, that the situation regarding STDs in Thailand worsened in the past five years, with an increase in the number of STD patients annually, especially those with syphilis.
A report concluded on July 18 showed that syphilis cases in Thailand doubled compared to 2018 (from an average of 11 to 28.1 per 100,000 population). Weerawat highlighted those cases among teenagers tripled, from an average of 27.9 to 91.2 per 100,000 population.
The spokesperson also revealed that the number of syphilis cases among Thai pregnant women increased fivefold compared to the previous year, 2023. The average number of cases in 2023 was 0.26 per 100,000 population but this year it is 1.3.
Weerawat concluded that this indicates unsafe sexual activity among Thai people which also increases the risk of contracting HIV by five to nine times.
He explained that syphilis is primarily transmitted through unprotected sex, sharing needles with an infected person, or from an untreated pregnant woman to her unborn baby. Some patients may have no symptoms in the early stages, allowing the disease to affect the brain or cardiovascular system.
To prevent the disease, Weerawat urged people of all sexual orientations to use condoms during sexual activity and undergo regular blood tests. He also advised couples with syphilis to abstain from sex during treatment.
For pregnant women, Weerawat recommended seeking prenatal care as soon as possible. The first registration should not be later than 12 weeks. Early prenatal care allows for timely treatment of syphilis in pregnant women, preventing transmission to their children.
By Petch Petpailin
Photo by Gerry Popplestone via Flickr
Full story: The Thaiger 2024-07-23
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23 July 23 20241333674
