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- Thailand offers visa-free travel to Russian visitors for 3 months
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin today announced that Thailand is offering a visa-free scheme to Russian visitors for three months from May 1 to July 31.
PM Srettha held a press conference at Government House at 11.50am, today, April 23, following a Cabinet meeting earlier in the day. In a part of his speech, the 62 year old Thai PM mentioned that the Cabinet agreed to offer visa-free travel to government officials from Bangladesh while also approving visa-free travel for Russian nationals.
The PM explained that Russian visitors would be allowed to enter Thailand and stay for 60 days without the need to apply for a visa. This special measure will come into effect for three months, from May 1 to July 31, according to a report on PPTV HD.
This measure will replace the former visa-free arrangement, which expires at the end of this month. Under the previous arrangement, Russian citizens were permitted to enter Thailand and stay for 90 days from November 1 of last year to April 30 of this year.
While Thailand prepares to extend a visa-free plan for Russian nationals, MRG Online reported last month that Sri Lanka had cancelled its visa exemption plan for both Russian and Ukrainian nationals due to racism.This decision followed an incident at a nightclub called The Sarayka Lounge, where locals were banned from entering with a sign that read “Face Control: White.”
Thai people, especially in Phuket, previously expressed concerns about the behaviour of Russian nationals on social media. They accused Russians of taking their jobs by illegally working and operating businesses. Several crimes committed by Russian nationals have also made headlines in Thai news outlets.
According to a report from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, more than 9.9 million foreign visitors entered Thailand between January 1 and April 7, generating over 480 billion baht in income for the country.
Russian nationals ranked among the top three foreign visitors with 661,000 people entering during the period. The other two top countries were China (1.8 million people) and Malaysia (1.2 million people).
Thailand began implementing a visa-free scheme for visitors from China and Kazakhstan last year. The country then reached a mutual visa-free agreement with China to allow residents from both countries to travel and stay for 30 days without visas, starting from March 1 onwards.
by Petch Petpailin
Photo via Facebook/ เศรษฐา ทวีสิน - Srettha Thavisin
Full story: The Thaiger 2024-04-24
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23 April 23 20241325757 - Officials Concerned Over Potential Overcrowding in Pattaya and Phuket
The Federation of Thai Tourism Associations has issued a warning to the Thai government alerting that the level of tourism has reached a critical point. According to forecasts, the number of foreign visitors in 2024 will be about 40 million, similar to the last pre-COVID year, 2019. This could strain both local environments and tourist experience.
Phuket and Pattaya are the cities most affected, with 118 and 99 foreign visitors for every local resident respectively, as per a study by MoneyTransfers. But this data is already several months old and the actual ratios could be even higher. Chris Flynn, CEO of the World Tourism Association, suggested that Thai officials appear to have not foreseen the toll the influx could take.
Signs of excessive tourism in Pattaya include heavy traffic, worsened by tour buses jamming insufficient roads, and ongoing road repairs in and around the city center. As British tourist John Leeman described, "After dark, it takes me at least an hour to travel from Jomtien to central Pattaya, double the time it took last year, and finding a parking spot when you arrive is nearly impossible."
The already dire situation could intensify due to potential water shortages brought on by inadequate rainfall and the possible increase in passengers at U-tapao airport near Pattaya. Some airlines currently do not use the airport due to the lack of regular bus transportation into Pattaya. But, if this changes, daily arrivals at U-tapao may significantly increase.
Recently, the number of tourists in Thailand has risen, in part because the country has waived holiday visas for large markets like Russia, China, and India. In response, Thai authorities are attempting to divert tourists to less popular provinces to relieve pressure on traditional resorts. The Thai Tourism Council is also urging the government to charge a 300 baht entry fee to fund development and improvements. However, travel experts question whether such measures can effectively control over-tourism.
Tourism control is not just a Thai issue. For instance, Greece now requires advance booking and pre-payment for visits to the Acropolis. The Netherlands has strengthened drug laws and stopped the construction of new hotels to curb unruly behavior among tourists. Some believe Thailand's recent crackdown on foreign crime and the potential ban on recreational cannabis suggest it also aims to deter certain types of tourists. In the words of a Thai Cabinet minister, "We want quality tourists from now on."
Caption: Creative Common License via Google
-- 2024-04-25
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25 April 25 20241325908 - Big Joke demands top job at Royal Thai Police HQ
General Surachate Hakparn, popularly known as 'Big Joke', made his return to the Royal Thai Police headquarters this Thursday.The former top police officer pledged to take legal actions against what he strongly believes is an internal conspiracy aimed at thwarting his chances of becoming Commissioner.
Recently removed from his position, 'Big Joke' voiced grave criticism on the current acting National Police Commissioner, General Kittirat Phanphet. He singled out the acting chief for particular scrutiny, stating that his dismissal process was legally flawed and argued it was based on an outdated procedure.
Surachate argued his displacement was executed based on an obsolete method, which was superseded by the updated Thailand 2022 Police Act. The assertion insinuates that his removal may have been unceremonious and potentially unlawful.
Despite the challenges, Surachate remained steadfast in his belief that he is the most suited for the role of the National Police Commissioner. He reiterated his aspiration to assume the position in October.
Asserting he was the best fit for the National Police Commissioner role, he subtly criticized the acting Police Commissioner, General Kittirat Phanphet.
Hakparn spoke out against a group within the police force he described as a 'cabal,' which he believes is trying to thwart his advancement. He promised to initiate legal action against them.
He contended that the method used for his removal a week prior was ill-conceived and based on an obsolete process replaced by the 2022 Police Act.
After retracting a complaint against the Prime Minister two days prior, Hakparn made a resolute comeback.
When addressing reporters, he affirmed his position as a deputy police chief, arguing that his dismissal hasn't been officially confirmed with a royal decree.
Picture: Creative Commons License via Bing
-- 2024-04-26
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25 April 25 20241325939 - Ex-Deputy House Speaker Blamed by NACC for Serious Breach of Ethics
The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has incriminated former Deputy Agriculture Minister, Supachai Phosu, for serious breaches of ethical political behavior. He had unlawfully possessed 35.2 hectares of land in the Tha Uthen district within the Nakhon Phanom province in north-eastern Thailand.
As shared by NACC's Secretary-General, Niwatchai Kasemmongkol, Mr. Supachai had earlier declared his assets, which included 40 plots covering the 35.2 hectares in the Dong Pathai forest. He disclosed these assets following his election as a Member of Parliament (MP) for Nakhon Phanom in 2007, his stature as deputy agriculture minister in 2008, and his subsequent election as an MP in 2019.
The NACC's investigation disclosed that Mr. Supachai wasn't legally eligible to own land through the land allocation program. Instead, he purchased the land from those who were legally entitled and given Nor Sor land ownership certificates. Later, Mr. Supachai transformed this land into rubber plantations.
Niwatchai explained that transfer or sale of such land is not permitted, but it can be inherited.
Even after Mr. Supachai decided to give up the disputed land in July last year, the NACC Secretary-General asserted that such a delayed move doesn't absolve him of his past wrongdoings. This, Niwatchai added, has denied landless or small-scale landowners from utilizing the disputed land.
In a separate case, the NACC similarly found Nakhon Ratchasima MP Suchart Pinyo at fault for serious breaches of ethical political conduct due to owning and utilizing about 40 hectares of land under a land reform program in Wang Nam Khiao forest, located in Wang Nam Khiao district.
Both cases are expected to be handed over to the Criminal Division of the Supreme Court for Political Position Holders for further evaluation.
Caption: Creative Common License via Google
-- 2024-04-25
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25 April 25 20241325901 - Thai Airways bids farewell to iconic Boeing 747 ‘Queen of the Skies’
Thai Airways has officially said goodbye to the iconic Boeing 747, also known as the 'Queen of the Skies.' This decision comes on the back of Air India retiring its last four Boeing 747-400s. The Thai airline held a grand farewell ceremony for the much-loved aircraft.
A photograph from the retirement ceremony showing the engineless Boeing 747-400 surrounded by tables and chairs was shared on Tuesday, marking the end of an era.
The plan was to retire the aircraft by the end of 2024. However, the Covid-19 pandemic caused a change of plans. Thai Airways put all its Boeing 747s into storage in March 2020, with the last one joining in December 2020 at the Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport.
As the aviation industry begins its recovery from the pandemic, Thai Airways decided it no longer needed the Boeing 747. The legendary aircraft was not the only one to retire; the airline also retired its six Airbus A380s.
Despite Thai Airways closing this chapter, Lufthansa still operates the biggest fleet of Boeing 747-400s, according to Aerotime Hub. Airlines like Atlas Air, Air Atlanta Europe, and Air China also continue to use the Boeing 747-400.
In other news, Thai Airways has decided to avoid the Middle East for its flights to Europe due to the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel. Thai Airways President Chai Eamsiri confirmed that the airline had slightly adjusted some flight routes to avoid the airspace over the Middle East. He also added that there were no immediate risks to Thai nationals in Iran and Israel.
Picture: :Thai Airways International Boeing 747-400. Creative Common License via Google
-- 2024-04-25
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25 April 25 20241325895 - Private Talks Between Thaksin, Srettha Fuel Cabinet Reshuffle Speculation
Thaksin Shinawatra, de facto Pheu Thai boss and convict on parole, had a private meeting with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. The meeting, suspected to discuss a cabinet reshuffle, was conducted at a high-end Sukhumvit Road hotel in Bangkok.
Thaksin, known to have the final say over these changes, previously supported the rise to power of Srettha, a real-estate tycoon turned Prime Minister. Srettha, who also holds the finance portfolio, is predicted to resign this role in favor of Pichai Chunhavajira, former chair of the Stock Exchange of Thailand. Speculation points to Srettha taking over the defense portfolio from Defense Minister Suthin Khlangsang.
Possible additions to the cabinet may include Nattapon Nakpanich, a former deputy army chief and pupil of former Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha. Other anticipated members are Paopoom Rojanasaku as deputy finance minister, Jiraporn Sindhuprai as deputy commerce minister, and Pichit Chuenbarn as a minister in the Prime Minister's Office.
Current members that may be out in this reshuffle include Public Health Minister Chonlanan Srikaew, Deputy Agriculture & Cooperatives Minister Chaiya Promma, and Prime Minister’s Office Minister Puangpetch Choonla-iad. The third and fourth largest coalition partners, Palang Pracharath and Ruam Thai Sang Chart respectively, are anticipated to change some ministers.
Picture: Creative Commons License via Bing
-- 2024-04-26
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25 April 25 20241325945 - Thailand Eradicates 22 Tonnes of Confiscated Illicit Drugs
On April 24, 2024, Thailand's Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) spearheaded an operation to destroy a gigantic 22-tonne haul of illegal drugs, seized from 68 different cases, said Pol. Lt. Gen. Panurat Lakboon, ONCB's Secretary-General.
The cache of illicit drugs, valued at several million dollars, was predominantly composed of amphetamine (17,806.87 kilograms) and methamphetamine (2,871.77 kilograms).
Additionally, it had 1,371.42 kilograms of ketamine and 41.16 kilograms of heroin. To obliterate the seized drugs, the ONCB employed a hazardous waste incinerator exceeding temperatures of 1,200 degrees Celsius, fueled by natural gas.
The high-temperature incineration method ensured the complete destruction of the drugs while minimizing the environmental impact, stated the Thai national media.
The location for this operation was in Samut Prakan, where ONCB officers and police escorts previously oversaw the transportation of these drugs 24/7, keeping them under tight security.
Post-incineration, the officers scrutinize the remains for legal processing requirements. As per the Secretary-General of the ONCB, this episode marks the third major drug incineration operation in a year's span, totalling to an impressive 387 tonnes of illicit substances destroyed, all under the purview of transparent and monitorable procedures.
Picture: Creative Commons License via Google
-- 2024-04-26
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26 April 26 20241325950 - Bangkok sizzles at 40°C, heatwave scorches Thailand at 43°C
Thailand is currently experiencing sweltering heat, with temperatures soaring to a blistering 43 degrees Celsius in some areas, while Bangkok faces highs of around 40 degrees Celsius. Amid this intense heatwave, the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) cautioned the public to avoid prolonged outdoor activities and to take care of their health.
The northern region is particularly affected, with temperatures ranging from 24 to 30 degrees Celsius at night and hitting highs between 37 and 43 degrees Celsius during the day. Thunderstorms are expected in about 10% of the area, accompanied by strong winds in places like Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Tak, Kamphaeng Phet, and Phetchabun.
The northeastern region is not spared, with scorching temperatures and sporadic thunderstorms also expected in about 10% of the area, particularly in Loei, Chaiyaphum, and Nakhon Ratchasima. The lowest temperatures at night will hover between 25 and 29 degrees Celsius, with daytime highs reaching between 39 and 42 degrees Celsius.
Central Thailand is also grappling with the heat, with similar conditions of thunderstorms in 10% of the region and gusty winds in areas such as Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Uthai Thani, and Lopburi. The temperatures range from 27 to 29 degrees Celsius at the coolest part of the night to 39 to 41 degrees Celsius at the peak of the day’s heat.
The eastern part of Thailand is generally hot, with scattered thunderstorms in 10% of the region, notably in Nakhon Nayok, Prachinburi, Chon Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat. The mercury dips to between 26 and 30 degrees Celsius at night and climbs to between 35 and 41 degrees Celsius during the day. The sea is relatively calm with waves under 1 metre, but during thunderstorms, the waves can exceed 1 metre.The situation is similar in the southern east coast provinces like Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Songkhla, Yala, and Narathiwat, where the temperatures fluctuate between 24 and 28 degrees Celsius at night and 35 to 40 degrees Celsius during the day. Sea conditions are generally calm, with waves below 1 metre rising above 1 meter during thunderstorms.
Temperature rises
The southern west coast, comprising provinces like Phang Nga, Phuket, Krabi, Trang, and Satun, experiences hot weather with a higher chance of thunderstorms, affecting 30% of the region. The temperatures here range from 25 to 29 degrees Celsius at night to 35 to 38 degrees Celsius in the daytime. The sea has waves averaging around 1 metre, increasing in height during thunderstorms.
In Bangkok and its vicinity, the heat is pervasive, with occasional cloud cover during the day and isolated areas of extreme heat. The temperature at night is expected to be between 28 and 30 degrees Celsius, while daytime temperatures are predicted to reach between 36 and 40 degrees Celsius, reported KhaoSod.
During this period of intense heat, the public is advised to stay hydrated, seek shade, and limit outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day. The elderly, children and those with health issues should be particularly cautious.
by Nattapong Westwood
Picture courtesy of wirestock, Freepik
Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-24
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24 April 24 20241325794 - Rise in Malaria Cases Spurs Action in Thailand
Thailand's Tak province is seeing a surge in malaria cases according to the Department of Disease Control (DDC). Since January, 2,913 infections have been identified, largely among foreign residents accounting for 60% of the cases. Other regions affected include Mae Hong Son, Kanchana Buri, Ranong and Prachuap Khiri Khan.
DDC Chief, Thongchai Keeratihuttayakorn, confirmed a comprehensive strategy is underway to handle the increase, especially in the border provinces. Health officials are now on high alert to ensure early detection and prompt treatment to prevent further spread.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reported 249 million malaria cases across 85 countries in 2022, causing 608,000 deaths. Accordingly, Thailand is striving to enhance its plan to eliminate malaria from 2017 to 2026, in cooperation with the WHO, USAID and the Asia Pacific Leaders Malaria Alliance. Currently, 49 provinces in Thailand are malaria-free.
During the World Malaria Day on April 25, USAID Mission Director Steve G Olive praised Thailand's real-time monitoring of malaria, crucial for quick detection and intervention. DDC's preventive plan, called 1-3-7, aims to issue a warning within one day of identifying a case, trace the source in three days, and launch preventive measures within seven days.
Marsh mosquitoes, found in mountain forests, rubber plantations and near natural water sources, have been identified as the carriers of malaria. People, especially tourists lodging in mountain forests, are advised to protect themselves from mosquito bites between dusk and dawn. Those experiencing symptoms like fever, headache and chills must seek immediate medical attention and monitor the symptoms for 10 to 14 days.
Picture: Jim Gathany. Creative Commons License via Google
-- 2024-04-26
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26 April 26 20241325958 - UN Report Warns Of Asia's Increasing Climate Crisis
Picture: Creative Commons License via Bing
A recent report from the United Nations reveals that Asia, identified as the world's disaster centre, is significantly affected by climate-related disruptions like floods, storms, extreme temperatures, and melting glaciers.
The World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) concludes that Asia, warming at an alarming rate, is the most affected region in the unfolding climate crisis, with forecasts predicting an increase in catastrophic events.
WMO Chief Celeste Saulo warns that "the report's conclusions are sobering." The impacts of these climate changes, ranging from record-breaking heatwaves to consistent heavy rains, have severe effects on human lives, economies, and ecosystems.
The 'State of the Climate in Asia 2023' report highlights worsening climate indicators and their grim outcomes. Asia continues to bear the brunt of these weather-related disasters, with floods and storms causing considerable loss of life and livelihoods.
From the vanishing glaciers to the rising sea levels, and heatwaves encompassing areas from Siberia to Japan, Asia is teetering on the brink of a climate catastrophe. Floods have decimated communities and storms caused extensive destruction, resulting in the loss of over 2000 lives and displacing millions, according to TRT World.
However, the WMO urges immediate action on reducing emissions and adapting to the climate changes.
In a related development, northern Thailand anticipates a severe heatwave, with temperatures predicted to break previous records, reaching up to 44 degrees Celsius.
The intense heatwave is due to a low-pressure area covering northern Thailand. Concurrently, the Ministry of Public Health highlighted the dangers of heatwaves after identifying 30 heatstroke-related deaths this year.
-- 2024-04-26
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26 April 26 20241325955
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