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  • Nongprue police focus on building stronger community relationships
    PATTAYA, Thailand – The Nongprue Police Station Committee held its annual meeting for the fiscal year 2024 at the Nongprue Police Operation Center on September 3. The meeting aimed to ensure effective management and oversight of the local police force. A key focus of the meeting was enhancing community engagement. “Our goal is to make […]
    Noppadol Kongvisaisuk chaired the meeting with Pol. Col. Thawee Kudthalaeng, Superintendent of Nongprue Police Station and other senior police officers to discuss strategies for strengthening community relationships.

    PATTAYA, Thailand – The Nongprue Police Station Committee held its annual meeting for the fiscal year 2024 at the Nongprue Police Operation Center on September 3. The meeting aimed to ensure effective management and oversight of the local police force.



    A key focus of the meeting was enhancing community engagement. “Our goal is to make the Nongprue Police more accessible and approachable to the public,” said Pol. Col. Thawee Kudthalaeng, Superintendent of Nongprue Police Station. “By fostering closer relationships between the police and the community, we aim to build trust and improve the efficiency of our operations.”

    The meeting included a review of current police operations, discussions on recent community visits, and planning for future outreach efforts. “Strengthening our connection with the community is crucial for maintaining public trust and ensuring smoother police operations,” Pol. Col. Thawee added. A significant topic was the appointment of new advisors to the Chonburi Provincial Police Advisory Board, with several new names proposed. The meeting also reviewed the minutes from the previous session.

    Pol. Col. Thawee provided updates on recent efforts in crime prevention, investigation, law enforcement, and administrative duties. “We are committed to continuous improvement and will reconvene every two months to address on-going challenges and enhance our relationship with the community,” he concluded.















    9 September 09 2024
    Pattaya
    https://www.pattayamail.com/?p=471552
  • Children at CPDC Pattaya train in the art of Muay Thai
    PATTAYA, Thailand – A Muay Thai training session was held on September 1, for children at the Child Protection and Development Center (CPDC) by Kombat Group. This initiative aims to provide the young participants with self-defense skills, physical exercise, and the potential to pursue a professional career in Muay Thai. The program, which highlights the […]
    Children at CPDC practice Muay Thai techniques during a training session organized by Kombat Group, focusing on self-defense, fitness, and potential career opportunities.

    PATTAYA, Thailand – A Muay Thai training session was held on September 1, for children at the Child Protection and Development Center (CPDC) by Kombat Group. This initiative aims to provide the young participants with self-defense skills, physical exercise, and the potential to pursue a professional career in Muay Thai.



    The program, which highlights the cultural and practical benefits of Muay Thai, aims to preserve this ancient national art form while enhancing the children’s physical fitness, fighting instincts, and self-confidence. Muay Thai, often referred to as the art of eight limbs, is deeply rooted in Thai heritage and offers significant benefits, including self-defense, physical conditioning, and career opportunities.

    Young participants at the Child Protection and Development Center hone their Muay Thai skills in a session designed to enhance their physical fitness and self-confidence.

    The training sessions will be held every Saturday until further notice, focusing on instilling discipline, sportsmanship, and respect. By participating in this program, the children not only engage with a vital aspect of their cultural legacy but also prepare for both personal growth and professional success in the future.















    9 September 09 2024
    Pattaya
    https://www.pattayamail.com/?p=471548
  • Scaffolding collapse topples power pole, blocks road in Central Pattaya
    PATTAYA, Thailand – On September 8, heavy rainfall and strong winds in Pattaya led to the collapse of scaffolding at a seven-story hotel construction site in Soi Arunothai on Pattaya Central Road. The incident caused metal plates and debris to fall onto the road, damaging electrical wires and toppling a high-voltage power pole, obstructing traffic. […]
    Collapsed scaffolding from the hotel construction site and a toppled power pole block Pattaya Central Road following heavy rainfall and strong winds on September 8.

    PATTAYA, Thailand – On September 8, heavy rainfall and strong winds in Pattaya led to the collapse of scaffolding at a seven-story hotel construction site in Soi Arunothai on Pattaya Central Road. The incident caused metal plates and debris to fall onto the road, damaging electrical wires and toppling a high-voltage power pole, obstructing traffic.



    Fortunately, no injuries were reported. Pattaya Special Operations officials swiftly responded by closing both lanes of the road to ensure public safety. They coordinated with the Pattaya Electricity Authority and other relevant agencies to inspect the damaged electrical systems and cleared the road for traffic.
















    9 September 09 2024
    Pattaya
    https://www.pattayamail.com/?p=471543
  • Driver with mental disorder on hit and run rampage in East Pattaya
    PATTAYA, Thailand – A series of hit-and-runs was reported on the evening of September 7 in East Pattaya. The Toyota Vios involved in multiple collisions, sped away from the scene before being stopped and the driver detained by a group of concerned citizens in front of Soi 6, Khao Talo. When police arrived, they found […]
    Rungrit was found in the back seat of his damaged car, gripping the front seat and refusing to cooperate. Officers had to forcibly remove him from the vehicle.

    PATTAYA, Thailand – A series of hit-and-runs was reported on the evening of September 7 in East Pattaya. The Toyota Vios involved in multiple collisions, sped away from the scene before being stopped and the driver detained by a group of concerned citizens in front of Soi 6, Khao Talo.

    When police arrived, they found the sedan with significant damage to its left front side and door. The driver, identified as Rungrit (surname withheld), was found in the back seat, gripping the front seat and refusing to cooperate. Officers had to forcibly remove him from the vehicle. A search of the car revealed a large amount of trash and a single pocket knife.



    Rungrit’s nephew, Lakyachakorn (surname withheld), arrived at the scene and explained that his uncle suffers from a neurological disorder and had been off his medication for nearly a year. The nephew had been searching for him for almost a day before finding him at the incident location.

    Police took Rungrit to the hospital for medical evaluation and treatment. The damaged vehicle was transported to Nongprue Police Station, where those affected by the collisions can file claims for damages. Authorities are also coordinating with the insurance company to arrange for repairs and compensation.















    9 September 09 2024
    Pattaya
    https://www.pattayamail.com/?p=471542
  • 11-year-old boy found chained on Pattaya Beach following viral incident
    PATTAYA, Thailand – An 11-year-old boy, previously seen in a viral video smoking an e-cigarette in August, was found chained to a chair near Pattaya Beach on September 7. The incident took place not far from a police station, where concerned bystanders alerted the authorities. The boy, identified as Pangpond, had a history of running […]
    Child and Family Welfare authorities rescue 11-year-old Pangpond, found chained to a chair on Pattaya Beach. The boy was placed in protective care, and his father is undergoing rehabilitation.

    PATTAYA, Thailand – An 11-year-old boy, previously seen in a viral video smoking an e-cigarette in August, was found chained to a chair near Pattaya Beach on September 7. The incident took place not far from a police station, where concerned bystanders alerted the authorities.



    The boy, identified as Pangpond, had a history of running away from home, which prompted several social media searches. On the day of the incident, he was discovered chained to a camping chair while his parents rented out mats to tourists. Pattaya police and officials from the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, quickly responded to the scene. Pangpond was immediately taken to the Pattaya police station for further investigation.

    The boy’s father, Sakda (surname withheld), admitted to chaining his son due to fears that Pangpond would cause further disturbances. Sakda, who tested positive for methamphetamine, explained that he acted not out of anger but out of concern for his family and the public.

    In response, the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security decided to place Pangpond in the care of the Child and Family Welfare Center in Chonburi for assessment and rehabilitation. Sakda is set to undergo drug rehabilitation. The family may apply for custody if Pangpond’s condition improves and no further incidents occur.

    A tourist who reported the event expressed dismay at the inhumane treatment of the boy, calling for more appropriate solutions. Authorities assured that Pangpond’s safety is a priority, and they are working to address the deeper issues within the family.

    Earlier report: 11-year-old boy caught vaping on Pattaya Walking Street
















    9 September 09 2024
    Pattaya
    https://www.pattayamail.com/?p=471539
  • Koh Larn Port upgrade with 900-day project to boost tourism begins this year
    PATTAYA, Thailand – Director-General of the Marine Department, Kritphet Chaichuay, announced the commencement of a major upgrade project for the Koh Larn port (also known as the Na-Baan Pier) in Pattaya, September 7. The project, with a budget of 285 million baht, is scheduled to start within 2024 and is expected to be completed by […]
    The project, with a budget of 285 million baht, is scheduled to start within 2024 and is expected to be completed by 2026, spanning a total of 900 days.

    PATTAYA, Thailand – Director-General of the Marine Department, Kritphet Chaichuay, announced the commencement of a major upgrade project for the Koh Larn port (also known as the Na-Baan Pier) in Pattaya, September 7. The project, with a budget of 285 million baht, is scheduled to start within 2024 and is expected to be completed by 2026, spanning a total of 900 days.

    The upgrade will involve the demolition of the old pier, the construction of a temporary pier, and the building of a new reinforced concrete pier measuring 19.4 meters in width and 64 meters in length. Additionally, the project will include the construction of a bridge connecting the pier, a passenger terminal building, an extension to the existing roof, two concrete boat docks, and two adjustable gangways.

    Koh Larn, a key tourist destination, attracts approximately 5 to 6 million visitors annually. The island can only be accessed by boat from Bali Hai Pier in Pattaya to Na-Baan Pier, located on the northeastern side of Koh Larn. This pier, which has been in use since 1968, is the island’s primary entry point and was originally built by local residents to connect the island with the mainland. However, the pier has become outdated, with a narrow width of just 7 meters and a lack of safety barriers, making it unsafe and overcrowded.

    Currently, the pier is in a dilapidated state, with significant wear and tear, and the high volume of users exacerbates the issues of convenience and safety. The Tourist Development Authority (TDA) commissioned a design study for the pier’s upgrade, which was completed in 2015. Following this, an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report was prepared and approved by the Marine Department at the end of 2022.



    Once the upgrade is completed, the new pier will significantly enhance the standard of the port, making it safer and more convenient for both locals and tourists. This improvement aims to boost the efficiency of maritime transport, accommodate future increases in visitor numbers, and support sustainable tourism development in Pattaya. (TNA)

    The upgrade will involve the demolition of the old pier, the construction of a temporary pier, and the building of a new reinforced concrete pier measuring 19.4 meters in width and 64 meters in length.
    The project will include the construction of a bridge connecting the pier, a passenger terminal building, an extension to the existing roof, two concrete boat docks, and two adjustable gangways.



    Once the upgrade is completed, the new pier will significantly enhance the standard of the port, making it safer and more convenient for both locals and tourists.



    This improvement aims to boost the efficiency of maritime transport, accommodate future increases in visitor numbers, and support sustainable tourism development in Pattaya.



     















    9 September 09 2024
    Business & Law
    https://www.pattayamail.com/?p=471529
  • Thai Revenue Department is drafting new tax laws
    EDITORIAL Kulaya Tantitemit, director-general of the Revenue Department, has indicated to the Bangkok Post that she is preparing significant new legislation. Under current rules, effective January 2024, Thais and foreigners residing here for 180 days or more in a calendar year will be taxed on foreign-sourced, assessable income when such cash is remitted into the […]
    The Thai Revenue Department wants to go further than taxing overseas income remitted to Thailand.

    EDITORIAL

    Kulaya Tantitemit, director-general of the Revenue Department, has indicated to the Bangkok Post that she is preparing significant new legislation. Under current rules, effective January 2024, Thais and foreigners residing here for 180 days or more in a calendar year will be taxed on foreign-sourced, assessable income when such cash is remitted into the country, regardless of when sent. A wave of panic has set in amongst the expat community, especially pensioners, although the opinions of banking and legal experts range from a don’t worry green signal to a hot potato red. Thus “savings” are not taxable, but there is no consensus about what “savings” are, or could be.




    But The Revenue, as reported in the Bangkok Post as recently as September 7, is preparing to amend the law to collect tax from any Thai or foreign resident (as defined above) who derives foreign-based income even if they do not bring such income into Thailand. This is unprecedented. The director-general justifies this move by referring to the principle of worldwide income which argues that all income earned by an individual is taxed by the country of residence. Some other south east Asian countries, including Cambodia, technically can tax the overseas income of resident aliens but choose largely to ignore the issue. For now anyway.



    It is important to recognize that this latest Revenue announcement would require parliamentary approval for a clear change in the tax laws. At this stage, it is not obvious that the suggestion will receive the rubber stamp of the legislature. For example, many rich and influential Thais may dislike the notion of declaring their worldwide income wealth which remains permanently overseas. There is no timescale and no evidence that the latest proposal is under parliamentary consideration even though it was first mooted last June. There is now a new premier and Cabinet in office following the resignation of prime minister Srettha Thavisin who had originally asked the Revenue to look for ways of broadening the tax base, presumably to increase government funds to pay for populist policies.




    Ms Kulaya pointed out that the proposed rule changes will depend on international cooperation and information exchange as Thailand is already a member of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development for tax information exchange amongst countries. There are many other complications too. For example, foreign holders of the 10-year Long Term Residence visa are exempt from taxation on foreign income remitted to Thailand, a very popular marketing ploy. However, they may not be exempt from worldwide income not remitted to Thailand unless a special clause was included in any legislation.



    Many of Pattaya Mail’s readers are older foreigners living here mainly or wholly on pension income and inheritances which have already been taxed in the home country. They are aware of double taxation treaties, but mostly unaware of the complex detail in 61 very different agreements and what they actually mean. The Revenue could now or in the future ignore income under double taxation arrangements, or alternatively argue that any tax paid to the home country is merely a “credit” to put alongside any further tax liability in Thailand. Generally speaking, Thai taxes are more expensive than, say, those in the US or the UK in most categories. Our advice to readers at the moment is to wait for clarification, if any, on the grounds that any tax due for 2024 is not due for collection until January-March 2025. Thailand is no stranger to surprise announcements.















    8 September 08 2024
    Business & Law
    https://www.pattayamail.com/?p=471430
  • Postal worker rescued after falling into abandoned well in East Pattaya
    PATTAYA, Thailand – A 40-year-old postal worker narrowly escaped death after falling into an abandoned well near the entrance of Soi Khao Talo 11, East Pattaya, on the night of September 7. The incident came to light around 9 a.m. the following morning when a distress call brought a rescue team and municipal authorities to […]
    A rescue team pulls Somwang Khonkaen from a deep abandoned well near Soi Khao Talo 11 in East Pattaya after a harrowing night trapped at the bottom.

    PATTAYA, Thailand – A 40-year-old postal worker narrowly escaped death after falling into an abandoned well near the entrance of Soi Khao Talo 11, East Pattaya, on the night of September 7.

    The incident came to light around 9 a.m. the following morning when a distress call brought a rescue team and municipal authorities to the scene. They found Somwang Khonkaen, trapped in an 8-meter-deep well located about 5 meters from the roadside. He was standing chest-deep in water and covered in mud.




    Rescuers quickly used a crane to lower a sling and pull Somwang to safety, completing the operation in less than 10 minutes. First aid was administered at the scene before Somwang was transported to a nearby hospital for further evaluation.

    Somwang later recounted that he had been riding his motorcycle home around midnight, intoxicated, when he stopped in a grassy area to relieve himself and accidentally fell into the well. After hours of trying to escape and calling for help, he was finally heard by a passerby the next morning.


    Tukta, a 41-year-old Bolt app rider, had stopped near the area while waiting for a passenger. After hearing Somwang’s cries, she located the well and immediately contacted authorities for assistance.

    A local resident noted that the abandoned well had been a known hazard for years. While previous attempts had been made to prevent children from playing near it, the well remained uncovered. He urged authorities to take action and cover the well to prevent further accidents.















    8 September 08 2024
    Pattaya
    https://www.pattayamail.com/?p=471427
  • Pattaya Retirees: Bruce Janis – Learning Thai was really easy
    To say Bruce Janis has a flair for languages would be an understatement to be sure. Born in America’s Midwest, he spoke Italian before English thanks to his parents and is also fluent (or was he says) in French. After university, he specialized in a career of product design and engineering before opening up several […]
    Resident in Thailand since 1989, Bruce knows a thing or two about living here.

    To say Bruce Janis has a flair for languages would be an understatement to be sure. Born in America’s Midwest, he spoke Italian before English thanks to his parents and is also fluent (or was he says) in French. After university, he specialized in a career of product design and engineering before opening up several factories in China in the 1980s when work visas for Americans were readily available.




    Knowing that speaking and writing the local lingo is often they key to business success, he learned Cantonese before leaving for Thailand following the 1989 Tiananmen Square student-led protests and subsequent massacre. “Actually,” he confesses, “I found Thai with its five tones easy to pick up as I had already successfully tackled Cantonese with its eight or nine.” His Thai husband, Somsak, says Bruce is a natural linguist for both speaking and writing. They were married in America.


    Initially, Bruce lived in Bangkok before moving to Chiang Mai where he hosted an “immigration therapy” chatgroup online to help expats confounded by the visa rules and regulations. “In the late 1990s, the paperwork needed for your longstay visa was actually heavier than today. I have always enjoyed community liaison and see a role for me informally bridging the gap which often exists between expats and Thai bureaucracy.” He adds that Chiang Mai is still very different from Pattaya in ethos: the fall-off in the number of western expats is less pronounced in Chiang Mai than in her sister city.




    Over the past year or so, Bruce has been working in Pattaya on a major You Tube project called Let’s Live in Thailand. Running over four hours, there are 14 videos of about 20 minutes each devoted to the pros and cons and ifs and buts of living in Thailand. Mostly already uploaded, they are being publicly released one a week on Sundays. Bruce says he was encouraged to produce the videos – all his own work without outside help – by the mediocrity of similar attempts on the internet.


    “It’s amazing how much rubbish is out there, written by people who don’t understand the differences between international and domestic insurance or the best way to open a bank account if you are looking for a longterm visa.” The videos are professionally produced and include popup messages, pictures and icons to keep you engaged. Subjects include (amongst many others) moving to Thailand, the world of visas, communication and language, security and health issues. There’s also a tantalizing All The Secrets You Missed. Many rumors and myths are dispelled.

    As regards contemporary Pattaya, Bruce believes the city still offers the facilities and services for almost any lifestyle and has a zest for life which is unique in his experience. “The resort has undergone so many changes in the last 30 years and will continue to evolve in its own way.” Perhaps that’s the key to the Pattaya success story.

    https://YouTube.com/@LetsLiveinThailand















    8 September 08 2024
    Featured
    https://www.pattayamail.com/?p=471424
  • Thai government will move forward with plans for mega entertainment complex, says Julapun
    BANGKOK, Thailand – Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat has announced that the government will move forward with plans for a mega entertainment complex, including casinos. The decision follows a public hearing, where 80% of participants supported the proposal. The entertainment complex bill, drafted by the Ministry of Finance, aims to legalize such facilities, with casinos […]
    According to Julapun, the bill will be revised based on feedback from the hearing and will then be presented to the cabinet for coalition parties to consider, if approved, it will proceed to the Council of State for review before being submitted to the House of Representatives.

    BANGKOK, Thailand – Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat has announced that the government will move forward with plans for a mega entertainment complex, including casinos. The decision follows a public hearing, where 80% of participants supported the proposal. The entertainment complex bill, drafted by the Ministry of Finance, aims to legalize such facilities, with casinos being a key component.

    According to Julapun, the bill will be revised based on feedback from the hearing and will then be presented to the cabinet for coalition parties to consider. If approved, it will proceed to the Council of State for review before being submitted to the House of Representatives.


    A recent Finance Ministry study suggests the entertainment complex will primarily attract Thai gamblers, expected to account for up to 90% of customers. Companies vying for a concession must have at least 10 billion baht in registered capital and obtain a license from the Entertainment Complex Policy Committee. The license, which lasts 30 years, carries a fee of 5 billion baht, with an annual charge of 1 billion baht.

    Previous efforts to legalize gambling in Thailand have faced resistance, though proponents argue that a regulated casino industry could create jobs and increase state revenue. (NNT)















    7 September 07 2024
    Business & Law
    https://www.pattayamail.com/?p=471402