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  2. Seems a lot of people that read this forum still do not understand anything about the LTR visa, it is just another option for people that meet the qualitifications and there are ads from the Thai BOI (Board of Investment). has 4 categories for applicants, depending on financial and health insurance situations. It is a 5+5 (10 year) visa with yearly providing the immigration folks with residence (can also be done by an agent) and I assume REQUALIFICATION after 5 years but haven't received info on that. One can obtain a work permit while holding the LTR also but while all funds remitted from overseas are tax exempt by royal decree, if one earns money in Thailand that is taxed but at a better rate for the individual. The one-year report of residence to immigration can have the date reset to the following year if one leaves the country and then returns later. If one gets a retirement visa O with multiple exits/returns, the LTR is actually cheaper (50K baht) and some have provided the figures on this forum. In my opinion, for me, the benefits and costs are much better under the LTR than a retirement visa. That doesn't mean it is better for YOU. One should check out the BOI ad on this visa and if there are still unanswered questions, contact the BOI (they speak English well) and they have always been very helpful and patient with this old guy. It took a total of 3 weeks to get the visa once I applied plus several phone calls. If one can fit into one of the categories then I think that they too will agree in the long run that this LTR is the best one for them. And like all the Thai visas, if one checks with the BOI they will inform you that to keep the visa, one must maintain the qualifications - that is the same for all visas. It doesn't mean right now anyway that they are going to be doing yearly checks on LTR holders - if one goes to an immigration office elsewhere in Thailand, then that office might have additional requirements just like with other visas and other immigration officers. Good luck.
  3. More than 25,000 individuals have signed a petition calling on the Department of Justice (DOJ) to launch an investigation into the recent deaths of two whistleblowers from Boeing, as the company faces heightened scrutiny. Organized by the progressive advocacy group MoveOn, the petition highlights the deaths of John Barnett and Joshua Dean. Barnett, a seasoned Boeing employee of 32 years, raised concerns about safety and quality control issues within the company's production line before his death in March, which was deemed an apparent suicide. Dean, a former quality auditor at Boeing supplier Spirit AeroSystems, passed away last week due to a bacterial infection after accusing the company's leadership of overlooking manufacturing defects related to the 737 Max. Britt Jacovich, spokesperson for MoveOn, emphasized the urgency of investigating these tragic deaths and addressing the mounting allegations against Boeing. The company faces accusations of silencing employees who speak out about safety concerns, including Sam Salehpour, a quality engineer at Boeing, who testified before a Senate committee about retaliation for raising manufacturing process concerns related to the 787 Dreamliner fuselage. Additionally, Santiago Paredes, a former quality inspector at Spirit AeroSystems, disclosed new allegations against the Boeing supplier, alleging pressure to conceal defects in airline parts. Paredes detailed being demoted after challenging changes in defect reporting protocols, only to be reinstated to a leadership role after lodging a complaint, citing threats and retaliation. The spotlight on Boeing has intensified following a midair incident involving a Boeing 737 Max 9 aircraft in January, where the plane's door plug blew off after takeoff, necessitating an emergency landing due to a significant hole in the aircraft's side. Boeing has chosen not to comment on the matter, as concerns about safety protocols and whistleblower protection continue to reverberate within the aviation industry. 2024-05-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe
  4. Dear Folks, How many times have I read on these hallowed pages, the complaining and backsliding, and pure negativism, mostly spoken from the more JADED amongst us? When, in fact, most of us should GLORY in being alive! Just think to yourselves how very fortunate you are to be in Thailand, and not in North Korea, for example. There is just too much complaining around here, on this forum....don't you think? Just as you, I do, once in a while, get down in the dumps, and I know not how to get out of my slumps. But you can find a way, if only you have the will. Are you just too old to seize the day? Or, seize, at least,....SOMETHING of interest to you? My advice to you is to NOT seize a woman, but seize something more substantial. In my case, I have chosen to seize upon my love of computers, and also posting Topics on Forums. And, if you cannot seize upon something that makes your blood boil, then how, in the heck, can you even expect to eek out your remaining days in such a way that... Might help you to become further self-actualized throughout your remaining years. You are just too young to throw in the towel, just because you may have lost your teeth, or a leg, or an arm, along the way, during your younger years. You know, I remember reading a novel by John Barth, who taught at Penn State, titled End Of The Road, who spoke about some dude losing everything, as he aged, figuratively speaking, on some journey from the East Coast of the USA to the West Coast. John Barth. You gotta love this author. John Barth, he was the guy who also wrote Giles Goat Boy. And, everyone here knows about the Goat Boy, right? I am only cautioning those who think that they might be OVER THE HILL to NOT think this way. You are younger than you think. Buy a new SUPER COMPUTER, if this is what floats your boat. Or, buy a single shell from Maine, and get out an row. CARPE DIEM, I say. Do whatever you must do to stay young enough to enjoy your remaining days. Do NOT spend the rest of your lives just moping around, because...what... What good is that to anyone? So then...how might you be able to pull yourselves up by your bootstraps, as they say? The longer you wait, the more difficult it will be for you. And, what does a single shell from Maine look like, and where to get out an row it? This is what I am talking about, Folks! Get out an row 10 klicks in the chop! Take a good look, Folks.... Do you see? This guy is the epitome of happiness and contentment. He is combining exercise with the salt air. I have many other good ideas which might help you Folks to seize the day. This is just one. Are you old guys willing to get up from your chairs and get out and row for happiness and healthiness? Or, if not...then... What is your plan....because... Everyone needs a plan. Regards, Gamma Note: ROSEBUD (What was the meaning, anyway?) NOTE7: Please, I beg of you...don't end up like Giles Goat-Boy...
  5. Forgetaboutit. Go to Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Korea or Japan. America is for making money if you're educated and can get a high tech job in a startup in Silicon Valley. Not cleaning out a restroom in a fast food joint in Silicon Valley, minimum wage, no education. That's a more difficult life than here in Thailand. See the difference? 🤯
  6. Rebecca Joynes, a 30-year-old teacher, faces six counts of engaging in sexual activity with minors, including two instances while in a position of trust. Shocking revelations emerged in court as it was alleged that Joynes laughed off concerns about age raised by one of the teenage boys she allegedly had sex with. During the trial at Manchester Crown Court, testimony revealed a chilling exchange between Joynes and a 15-year-old boy, identified only as Boy A. After picking up Boy A from school and taking him to her flat, where they reportedly engaged in sexual activity, Joynes allegedly made a comment about driving. When Boy A mentioned his age-related inability to drive, Joynes purportedly laughed and dismissively responded with, "Oh shut up. Stop saying that." The prosecution outlined the disturbing details of Joynes's alleged actions, including her encounters with two teenage boys, one of whom she reportedly became pregnant by while on bail for the charges related to Boy A. Testimony from Boy A's police interview revealed that Joynes initiated contact with him by providing most of her phone number, leading to exchanges on Snapchat and eventually to their meeting after school. According to Boy A's account, Joynes picked him up in her white Audi A1 and drove to her flat after collecting her dog from day care. Despite Boy A's age and appearance, Joynes allegedly engaged in sexual activity with him twice during their encounter. The court heard that Joynes even purchased an expensive Gucci designer belt for Boy A during a visit to the Trafford Centre. However, the situation escalated when rumors began to circulate, prompting a police investigation and Joynes's subsequent suspension from her school. Despite denying any sexual activity with Boy A and being released on bail with restrictions, it was later revealed that Joynes had a long-term sexual relationship with another teenage boy while suspended, who is also the father of her young daughter. Throughout the trial, Joynes has maintained her innocence, claiming that sexual activity with the second boy did not begin until he turned 16. However, the case highlights the grave implications of allegations involving the abuse of trust by individuals in positions of authority, especially concerning vulnerable minors. As the trial continues, questions remain about the extent of Joynes's alleged actions and the impact on the victims involved. 2024-05-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe
  7. Are we inadvertently rewarding terrorism? Recent events suggest so. The aftermath of the October 7 attacks has revealed a disturbing pattern: instead of standing firm against extremism, some Western nations seem to be offering concessions. This shift raises critical questions about the effectiveness of our foreign policy and the message it sends to terrorist groups worldwide. If you're like me, deeply concerned about the rise of Islamist extremism, you'll find these developments alarming. The danger it poses to Jewish communities globally and the threat it poses to liberal values and national security should not be underestimated. Yet, Western support for Israel's efforts to combat terrorism, particularly against Hamas, appears inconsistent and wavering. Most of us want our governments to defend democracy and stand against terrorist threats. But why do our leaders seem hesitant to unequivocally support Israel's fight against Hamas? Why the reluctance to condemn terrorist acts and provide unwavering backing to those combating them? These are questions that demand answers. Instead of adopting a stance of strength and resolve, some Western politicians appear to be pursuing a misguided approach of "peace without victory." This policy, reminiscent of Ronald Reagan's critique during the Cold War, risks emboldening our enemies and undermining our security. By avoiding direct confrontation, we may inadvertently signal weakness, encouraging further acts of terrorism. The aftermath of the October 7 attacks serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of appeasement. The brutal massacre of innocents, accompanied by scenes of unspeakable horror, should have united us in condemnation and a resolve to combat terrorism. Yet, shockingly, we've witnessed a troubling phenomenon: a growing sympathy for the perpetrators and their cause. From prestigious universities to city streets, there's a worrying trend of support for terrorism under the guise of "intifada." This wave of terror, claiming countless lives in suicide bombings and violent attacks, should not be met with tolerance or indifference. Yet, we find ourselves confronted with a disturbing lack of moral clarity and a reluctance to confront evil head-on. Instead of confronting terrorism directly, we seem to be avoiding the difficult decisions necessary to combat it effectively. The reluctance to acknowledge the gravity of the threat posed by extremist groups like Hamas only emboldens them further. It's a dangerous game of appeasement that history has shown leads to disastrous consequences. Reagan's warning about the dangers of appeasement rings true today more than ever. By appeasing our enemies and failing to confront them directly, we risk sending a dangerous message: that terrorism works. This is a message that must be unequivocally rejected if we are to ensure the safety and security of our communities. The reluctance to confront terrorism head-on is not just a failure of leadership; it's a betrayal of our values and principles. We cannot afford to capitulate to the demands of terrorists or allow them to dictate our foreign policy. It's time for Western nations to stand united against extremism and send a clear message: terrorism will not be tolerated, and those who perpetrate it will be held accountable. As we reflect on the events of October 7 and the troubling trends that have emerged since, let us remember the importance of standing firm against terrorism in all its forms. Our resolve and determination to combat extremism must not waver, for the sake of our security, our values, and our future. 2024-05-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe
  8. Declassified documents unveil a clandestine pursuit by top senators, including Chuck Schumer and the late Harry Reid, to uncover and disclose UFO secrets allegedly held by the U.S. government. The documents detail bipartisan efforts to establish covert programs aimed at retrieving and reverse-engineering unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP) of "non-human" origin, citing "credible sources" alleging governmental concealment of UFO-related information. Despite pushback from department leadership and skepticism from Pentagon officials, senators persist in their quest for transparency, introducing extraordinary legislation and challenging official denials. As congressional scrutiny intensifies and whistleblowers come forward, questions loom over the existence of illicit UFO programs and the possibility of criminal investigations. The recently declassified documents shed light on a covert endeavor spearheaded by prominent senators, transcending party lines, to unravel the mysteries surrounding unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP) or UFOs. Led by stalwarts like Chuck Schumer and Harry Reid, this bipartisan effort aimed to establish clandestine programs for the retrieval and study of UFOs allegedly in the possession of the U.S. government. Central to these revelations are the extraordinary legislative proposals introduced by senators Schumer and Mike Rounds, alleging the existence of secretive "legacy programs" tasked with retrieving and reverse-engineering UFOs of "non-human" origin. Schumer's impassioned remarks on the Senate floor underscored the urgency of disclosing information long withheld from the American public, citing allegations of illegal concealment by elements within the government. However, these legislative endeavors have faced challenges, with key elements stripped from the bills amidst opposition from House lawmakers. Yet, senators remain undeterred, vowing to continue their pursuit of disclosure and accountability. At the forefront of these efforts are revelations from whistleblowers, including Air Force veteran David Grusch, who testified to the existence of covert UFO programs shielded from congressional oversight. Despite official denials and attempts to discredit whistleblowers, senators persist in their quest for transparency, raising questions about the credibility of Pentagon officials and the veracity of government statements. The Pentagon's UFO analysis office, once tasked with investigating such phenomena, now finds itself embroiled in controversy, with allegations of flawed reports and institutional credibility at stake. As congressional scrutiny intensifies, recent comments from senators like Kirsten Gillibrand cast doubt on the efficacy of official denials, hinting at ongoing investigations and potential criminal implications. With the Department of Justice reportedly involved in assessing whistleblower complaints, the specter of criminal charges looms large, challenging the government's blanket denials regarding UFO-related activities. In the midst of these revelations, the credibility of Pentagon officials and the veracity of government statements come under scrutiny, raising fundamental questions about accountability and transparency. As senators press forward with their inquiries, the quest for UFO disclosure enters a new phase, one marked by heightened scrutiny, legal challenges, and the relentless pursuit of truth. 2024-05-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe
  9. An appeals court has upheld Hunter Biden's federal gun charges, clearing the path for the president's son to face trial in June. The 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals rejected Biden's appeal, citing jurisdictional constraints and refusing to review the trial judge's decision. Despite this setback, Biden's attorney, Abbe Lowell, hinted at potential further review, emphasizing the importance of the issues at hand. The trial is scheduled to begin on June 3, following Judge Maryellen Noreika's affirmation, despite previous attempts to dismiss the charges on grounds of political targeting. Special counsel David Weiss has brought forth three gun-related charges against Biden, who maintains his plea of not guilty, following the collapse of a proposed plea deal. As the case unfolds, questions surrounding the alleged pressure campaign and the conduct of prosecutors remain pivotal. The recent decision by the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals marks a significant development in the ongoing legal saga involving Hunter Biden's federal gun charges. Despite efforts to challenge the trial judge's decision, the appeals court maintained that it lacked the jurisdiction to intervene at this stage, paving the way for the case to proceed to trial in June. While Hunter Biden's legal team expressed disappointment at the ruling, they hinted at potential further review, underscoring the importance of the issues at hand. The trial, scheduled to commence on June 3, has been subject to intense scrutiny and legal wrangling in recent months. Hunter Biden's defense has sought to dismiss the charges, alleging political targeting and improper conduct by prosecutors. However, these claims were dismissed by Judge Maryellen Noreika, who affirmed the trial date and emphasized the lack of credible evidence supporting allegations of outside influence on the special counsel's decision. At the heart of the case are three gun-related charges brought against Hunter Biden by special counsel David Weiss. These charges, including allegations of failing to disclose drug use and unlawful possession of a firearm, have been vehemently denied by Biden, who maintains his plea of not guilty. The case took a dramatic turn with the collapse of a proposed plea deal, which would have seen Biden plead guilty to tax offenses in exchange for avoiding formal gun-related charges and entering a pretrial diversion program. As the trial date approaches, questions surrounding the conduct of prosecutors and the alleged pressure campaign from Congressional Republicans remain unresolved. Hunter Biden's legal team has raised concerns about the changing stance of prosecutors and the lack of clarity surrounding their decisions. Despite these challenges, the upcoming trial is expected to shed light on the intricacies of the case and its implications for the broader political landscape. 2024-05-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe
  10. In recent years, the United Kingdom has experienced a surge in immigration, posing significant challenges to its social cohesion and infrastructure. Despite a long history of successful integration, the uncontrolled influx of migrants has strained resources and exacerbated social tensions. As the country grapples with the implications of mass migration, it faces critical decisions on immigration policy and societal cohesion. The UK's tradition of openness to immigrants dates back centuries, rooted in principles of religious tolerance, individualism, and the rule of law. Over time, this openness has contributed to a diverse and inclusive society, with immigrants making significant contributions to various fields, including politics, business, and culture. However, the unchecked flow of migrants in recent years has overwhelmed the country's infrastructure and resources, leading to congestion, healthcare shortages, and a housing crisis. Moreover, the government's failure to address issues such as Islamist extremism and the spread of woke critical race theory has further strained social cohesion. The rise of extremism and anti-Semitism threatens to undermine the principles of integration and inclusion that have long defined British society. To address these challenges, the UK must adopt a more discerning approach to immigration, prioritizing skilled migrants who can contribute positively to society. Additionally, efforts must be made to tackle extremism and promote moderate voices within immigrant communities. By taking proactive measures to manage immigration and address social tensions, the UK can preserve its legacy of openness and diversity while safeguarding its social fabric for future generations. 2024-05-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe
  11. Marius Gustavson, a 46-year-old Norwegian residing in north London, has been sentenced to life imprisonment for orchestrating a disturbing body modification cult, where irreversible mutilations were performed on numerous men. Alongside six co-defendants, Gustavson operated the "Eunuch Maker" website, enticing over 22,000 paying members to witness grotesque surgeries and sexual torture. Prosecutors portrayed Gustavson as a manipulative figure who exploited vulnerable individuals, earning approximately £300,000 from the website's subscribers. His heinous acts included mutilating at least 30 men between 2017 and 2021, with evidence suggesting instances of cannibalism and the sale of severed genitalia. Gustavson's sentencing revealed the extent of his depravity, as he was found guilty of electrocuting a 16-year-old boy and subjecting him to genital mutilation. The court described Gustavson's actions as "human butchery," emphasizing the absence of consent and the lifelong trauma inflicted upon the victims. Six of Gustavson's accomplices, lacking medical qualifications, were also sentenced for their roles in the gruesome enterprise. Their involvement ranged from assisting in surgeries to actively participating in the mutilations. The severity of their sentences reflects the gravity of their offenses and the lasting impact on the victims. The court heard disturbing details of Gustavson's past offenses, including fraud convictions in Norway. Despite the victims' apparent consent, the prosecution underscored the unlawful nature of extreme body modifications and the irreparable harm caused to those involved. Kate Mulholland, a prosecutor, emphasized the CPS's commitment to prosecuting such crimes, highlighting the need to deter others from engaging in similar activities. The sentencing serves as a stark warning against the exploitation and abuse of vulnerable individuals for personal gain. 2024-05-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe
  12. I've no idea. POA is possible in certain circumstances. The bank is incredibly unforthcoming. I made a final appeal to them today. Just wouldn't go away until they came out with something other than "my die". Yes, I know it was my fault, but they were just incredibly unhelpful. Of course, I got no result. But I couldn't even get their brains into gear. Like, maybe thinking? Learnt in the process the Beach Rd branch is closing, and all of the Soi post office customers have been, or are being, relocated to what they call the Pratamnak branch. Joke. It's nowhere near Pratamnak. It's on 2nd road, the Indian end.
  13. Funny enough, that's the same number as the number of virgins Muslim martyrs get. Coincidence? You be the judge. 🙂
  14. A growing number of MAGA voters are uprooting their lives and relocating to Russia, citing nostalgia for a bygone era, admiration for traditional values, and disillusionment with the state of affairs in the United States. Drawn to Russia's perceived resemblance to 1950s America, conservative expats praise the country's Christianity, scenic landscapes, and attractive populace, with some even expressing support for autocratic leader Vladimir Putin. Despite geopolitical tensions and warnings from the U.S. government, these expatriates find solace in their new surroundings, viewing Russia as a bastion of stability and spirituality. Amidst political upheaval and societal discord in the United States, a surprising trend is emerging: MAGA voters are trading the American Dream for a new life in Russia. Motivated by a yearning for a simpler, more traditional way of life, and disillusioned with the current state of affairs in their homeland, these expatriates are finding solace in the former communist state. Praising Russia's Christian values, picturesque landscapes, and abundance of beautiful women, they paint a portrait of a nation reminiscent of a bygone era. One such individual, Peter Frohwein, 62, relocated from Atlanta to Yalta in Crimea, captivated by the allure of Russia's cultural landscape. Embracing the prospect of starting a family in his new surroundings, Frohwein lauds Russia's multilingual environment and views it as a sanctuary from the political and social turmoil plaguing the United States. Similarly, Bernd Ratsch, 56, traded Texas for Moscow in pursuit of a quieter, more stable existence, echoing sentiments of disenchantment with U.S. politics and leadership. For Joseph Rose, 49, and his family, Russia represents a beacon of hope and spiritual revival. Documenting their journey on YouTube, they celebrate Russia's burgeoning Christian identity and contrast it with what they perceive as a decline of religious values in America. Rose views his relocation as a divine calling, guided by faith and a desire to escape the moral decay of contemporary American society. However, not all transitions have been seamless. The Feenstra family, originally from Canada, encountered obstacles upon their move to Russia, with financial complications and cultural misunderstandings dampening their initial optimism. Despite challenges, their decision to seek refuge from what they perceive as the encroachment of liberal ideology underscores a broader trend among conservative expatriates. Against the backdrop of deteriorating U.S.-Russia relations, the influx of American expats raises questions about the geopolitical ramifications of such migrations. As tensions escalate and incidents like the arrest of American journalist Evan Gershkovich on espionage charges strain diplomatic ties, the divide between the two nations deepens. Yet, for MAGA voters seeking sanctuary in Russia, the allure of nostalgia and stability outweighs the risks, prompting a reevaluation of traditional notions of home and belonging. 2024-05-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe
  15. Please note that this "relaxation" does NOT and will not apply to AseanNow. You want "free speech" you know where to go.
  16. I heard God can make a woman from a rib. Not sure about the BBQ sauce though.
  17. People, there is no having to reconfirm qualifications at the yearly report - at least none that I have been advised of and I have an LTR. It is to report your residence yearly only - and if you are in Thailand you or your agent who makes the report just need a to fill in a form.sign it and as for the 5-year, I haven't seen anything yet on exactly what will be needed. And yes by leaving the country, like the 90-day, one's yearly residence report resets the time for the next one. One does not need to go to the BOI to do the yearly report - only immigration and the immigration office at the BOI is much more convenient than going to some of the other immigration offices. No one is being forced to get an LTR but for me it is the cheapest and most beneficial of all the visas. I had an Retirement O for almost 20 years of doing those yearly plus 90-day reports. the LTR is for a RESIDENT in my opinion but some people have one and travel much during the year I guess.
  18. I'm trying to find a shop in or around Hua Hin / Cha Am that can install a hitch on my Honda CR-V. I have the hitch but need a shop that can install it. Thanks
  19. If I see a bad review from someone with only a few reviews I disregard it as biased. Either the competition trying to play dirty or somebody who doesn't get out much. Several hundred reviews then I look at their reviews. If I see reviews for McDonald's or other fast food places, I know they're idiots, too. If hundreds of reviews in quality joints then I pay attention. 😄
  20. An audit going back a few years would put a very quick end to that kind of practice for the audited individual I'm going to do this but while non resident in the year of realisation and remittance, I'll also reset the cost basis of the investments that remain. This is my approach, to sum it up in one sentence : Hope for the best but expect the worst
  21. Surely putting these complaints onto social media is a computer crime that puts Thailaaaaaa.......Ah! No. That's only if foreigners do it. Silly me.
  22. Anutin Joins PM in Pot Stand, Urges Arrests of Foreigners Anutin Charnvirakul. Picture courtesy of Thai Rath In a bold move, Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul orders the arrest of foreigners operating cannabis outlets illegally in Thailand. The widely criticised decision follows a government-led initiative to upscale the regulation of recreational marijuana trading in the country. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327011-anutin-joins-pm-in-pot-stand-urges-arrests-of-foreigners/
  23. Anutin Joins PM in Pot Stand, Urges Arrests of Foreigners Anutin Charnvirakul. Picture courtesy of Thai Rath In a bold move, Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul orders the arrest of foreigners operating cannabis outlets illegally in Thailand. The widely criticised decision follows a government-led initiative to upscale the regulation of recreational marijuana trading in the country. The Minister's proclamation comes in the wake of an edict from Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, the controversial call to reclassify cannabis as a banned narcotic. This impending shift could lead to the closure of nearly 8,000 marijuana retail outlets. While Mr Anutin openly supports the introduction of legislation to regulate the industry, his admonition towards foreign nationals involved in illegal cannabis sale has stirred quite a buzz. "It's a tricky situation. We've got a burgeoning cannabis industry on one hand and the potential collateral damage of this ban on the other," shared Moira McKenzie, a long-time expat running an art café in Chiang Mai. A wave of unrest swept the nation following the Prime Minister's Wednesday pronouncement. Many see cannabis as a cornerstone of a progressive, modern Thailand. More so, it has imbued a profound change in Thailand’s conservative culture. The country made history in Asia by legalising medicinal marijuana usage back in 2018, and in 2020, the growth, trade and possession of limited quantities were decriminalised. Mr Anutin himself, in his prior role as Minister of Public Health, played a crucial part in these reforms. Nonetheless, embracing a diplomatic outlook, he stated, "As I am no longer the Minister of Public Health, it behoves me to allow the incumbent to make this decision. But we must offer concise information on why cannabis has more benefits than harm”. This sentiment is highly indicative of the complex state of affairs cannabis regulation has created within Thai politics. Anutins' stance on limiting ownership to Thai nationals only has been clear for some time, aiming to safeguard local traditional practitioners and keep the benefits within national borders. He stood firm on this, calling for a systemic sweep and arrest of international operatives. While medical bodies have warned about the adverse effects of recreational cannabis use, pro-cannabis lobbyists have hit back. In particular, the Cannabis Future Network is threatening protests and legal action against the government's perceived efforts to establish a cannabis monopoly. They are demanding scientific proof of cannabis causing harm to mental health. Growing public dissatisfaction and the legalisation advocates' outcry against the government might fuel a significant shift in Thailand's political alliance, ultimately shaping the country's stance on cannabis. -- 2024-05-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe
  24. I am pretty sure that all foreign remitted funds to Thailand are exempt under the LTR benefits (by royal decree). If one works legally in Thailand with the LTR work permit, the earned funds will be taxed a a different rate than normal- BOI will probably send you confirmation soon.
  25. Thai Airways Confronts Social Media Storm Over Faulty Seats File photo courtesy: Wikipedia In response to a deluge of grievances on social media, Thai Airways has acknowledged the presence of malfunctioning seats on eight of its aircraft. They promise to have it sorted by July this year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327010-thai-airways-confronts-social-media-storm-over-faulty-seats/
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