[Thailand Live Saturday 4 May 2024]

Thailand Central Bank Blocks Additional 1% Fee on Credit Cards

 

File photo for reference only

 

The Bank of Thailand has discarded a proposed 1% fee on credit cardholders. This decision was prompted when card issuers announced they would dismiss the 1% fee for transactions in baht to overseas traders and online shopping sites.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326541-thailand-central-bank-blocks-additional-1-fee-on-credit-cards/

 

[Thailand Central Bank Blocks Additional 1% Fee on Credit Cards]

 

The Bank of Thailand has discarded a proposed 1% fee on credit cardholders. This decision was prompted when card issuers announced they would dismiss the 1% fee for transactions in baht to overseas traders and online shopping sites.

 

In March, the card issuers voiced their intention to introduce a 1% charge for foreign currency conversion on payments made overseas with Visa and Mastercard. This fee, known as dynamic currency conversion (DCC), was intended to begin on May 1.

 

This initiative invited criticism from Thai cardholders, pushing the central bank to pursue fair and reasonable banking fees. The fee was proposed due to the rising costs card issuers faced from increased overseas and online payments on foreign platforms.

 

An unnamed banking source hinted that card issuers might permanently dismiss the fee, with the central bank encouraging alternative payment methods. Kulthirath Pakawachkrilers, president of the Thai E-commerce Association, expressed concerns about the impact of DCC on consumers and suggested other payment options such as e-wallets.

 

She also pointed out numerous platforms impacted by the DCC, including Spotify, VIU, Agoda, Booking.com, Expedia, Klook, Airbnb, Trip.com, Facebook, Google, TikTok, Paypal, Alipay, eBay, Amazon, Alibaba, and Taobao. However, she mentioned that platforms such as Shopee (Thailand), Lazada (Thailand), and Grab Taxi (Thailand) should remain untouched.

 

Bank of Thailand's report last year showed e-payments saw a 10.4% increase from 2022, reaching 28.8 trillion baht (US$ 783 billion). Card payments were up by 8.2% from 2022, bringing the value to 5.9 trillion baht (US$ 160 billion).

 

File photo for reference only

 

-- 2024-05-04

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[Thailand Live Saturday 4 May 2024]

Thai Woman Kills Home Invader in Self-defence

 

Picture courtesy of The Thaiger

 

A 42-year-old woman, identified as Urai, defended herself fatally against an intruder in her home in the small community of Ban Non Samakkhi, Bueng Kan. The intruder, a 32-year-old man known as Bunjong, had broken into her home with the intent to sexually assault her.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326540-thai-woman-kills-home-invader-in-self-defence/

 

[Thai Woman Kills Home Invader in Self-defence]

 

 

A 42-year-old woman, identified as Urai, defended herself fatally against an intruder in her home in the small community of Ban Non Samakkhi, Bueng Kan. The intruder, a 32-year-old man known as Bunjong, had broken into her home with the intent to sexually assault her.

 

The dreadful episode unfolded late in the night. Bunjong entered Urai's home and tried to silence her by smothering her mouth with a cloth. Urai, in her fight for survival, bit his finger causing Bunjong to loosen his grip. This allowed Urai to seize the cloth around Bunjong’s neck and strangle him, leading to Bunjong's death.

 

The arrival of police from the So Phisai police station revealed Bunjong's lifeless body. Forensic examination from So Phisai Hospital confirmed the cause of death: strangulation. This supported Urai's narrative, suggesting she acted in self-defence without inflicting other physical harm.

 

Bunjong had a history of drug abuse and prior offenses including trespassing and firearm possession. His addiction caused him to become a burden to his community and family, to the extent that his mother had left home to avoid his violent behaviour.

 

Despite the self-defence claim, Urai may face charges for causing death. The police chief, Praiwal Thaoprom, revealed that evidence was being collected to clarify the nature of Urai's actions. Additionally, the police plan to posthumously charge Bunjong with trespassing and attempted rape.

 

Bunjong's family, while performing his funeral rites, indicated no intention of suing Urai, acknowledging the aggressiveness of the deceased.
 

Picture courtesy of The Thaiger

 

-- 2024-05-04

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[Thailand Live Saturday 4 May 2024]

Fatal Crash in Kamphaeng Phet Leaves Two Dead, Three Injured 

 

Picture courtesy if The Thaiger

 

A fatal collision occurred on Phaholyothin Road in Kamphaeng Phet province, killing two individuals and injuring three others. The accident, which happened yesterday at 6.20 pm, involved a Bangkok registered white Isuzu pickup. 

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326539-fatal-crash-in-kamphaeng-phet-leaves-two-dead-three-injured/

 

[Fatal Crash in Kamphaeng Phet Leaves Two Dead, Three Injured]

 

A fatal collision occurred on Phaholyothin Road in Kamphaeng Phet province, killing two individuals and injuring three others. The accident, which happened yesterday at 6.20 pm, involved a Bangkok registered white Isuzu pickup. 

 

The pickup driver swerved to avoid a taxi that was undertaking an illegal U-turn and crashed into a tree. The news of the accident was reported to Police Lieutenant Ek Srirawat of the Songtham Police Station, who immediately arrived at the site with rescue workers. They discovered the crushed pickup with its five occupants trapped inside.

 

The deceased were identified as 30-year-old Sitthiporn Pinnang, the driver, and passenger Warapong Jaemsai, also 30. Both victims hailed from Nonthaburi province. The injured, including the critically hurt Duangruethai Rungdit, and two others, Prachai Kamthong, 29, and Anuwat Srijanchom, 30, were taken to a nearby hospital.

 

The rescue operation took about an hour due to the severe vehicular damage. The survivors revealed they had been on their way to a monk ordination ceremony in Lampang province. The crash occurred when a sedan abruptly cut in front of their pickup on the road. 

 

Police reviewed the CCTV footage from a nearby checkpoint and confirmed a green and yellow taxi's involvement, making a prohibited U-turn. The taxi's plate number was indistinguishable, but the police are committed to finding the vehicle and taking legal action against the driver.

 

Picture courtesy if The Thaiger

 

-- 2024-05-04

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[Thailand Live Saturday 4 May 2024]

British tourist arrested with cocaine hidden in passport

 

Picture courtesy of Thai Examiner

 

29-year-old Jamie Louis Swain from Enfield, North London, could face up to twenty years in a Thai prison after reportedly being caught with cocaine hidden in his passport.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326536-british-tourist-arrested-with-cocaine-hidden-in-passport/

 

[British tourist arrested with cocaine hidden in passport]

 

29-year-old Jamie Louis Swain from Enfield, North London, could face up to twenty years in a Thai prison after reportedly being caught with cocaine hidden in his passport. Swain was arrested at Phuket International Airport on his arrival from an Etihad Airways flight on Thursday night. 

 

An immigration officer discovered a small plastic bag filled with white powder in Swain’s passport during routine checks for visa stamping. Authorities confirmed the substance was 0.42 grams of cocaine. Swain's questionable reaction to the discovery led to a further search of his luggage.

 

Swain was charged with importing and possessing category II narcotics, namely cocaine, a violation of Thailand's Narcotics Act. This crime could lead to a maximum sentence of 20 years to life in jail, along with a fine between 2,000,000 – 5,000,000 Baht (£43,000 to £108,000).

 

In addition to this, cocaine possession is punishable with up to five years or up to a 100,000 Baht (£2,000) fine in Thailand. Swain's case has been turned over to Sakhu Police Station for further legal action.

 

Picture courtesy of Thai Examiner

 

-- 2024-05-04

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[Thailand Live Saturday 4 May 2024]

Thai Airport Issues Warning to Pet Owners After Cat Incident

 

Picture courtesy of Khaosod

 

Airport authorities in Thailand have warned pet owners against allowing their animals to roam unattended in airport areas following a recent incident with a cat named Nuarang at Suvarnabhumi International Airport. 

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326535-thai-airport-issues-warning-to-pet-owners-after-cat-incident/

 

[Thai Airport Issues Warning to Pet Owners After Cat Incident]

 

Airport authorities in Thailand have warned pet owners against allowing their animals to roam unattended in airport areas following a recent incident with a cat named Nuarang at Suvarnabhumi International Airport. 

 

Nuarang, an orange cat, caught social attention after it was spotted unsupervised on an airport escalator. It was found that the cat's owner, a representative of a tour company working in the airport, allowed the pet to wander freely, potentially endangering the public and the airport property. 

 

Previously, the Airports of Thailand (AOT), had no explicit rules barring pets from the airport. However, the incident may prompt the introduction of regulations requiring pets to be leashed or held while in the airport. 

 

The airport authority has since reprimanded the cat's owner and urged cooperation from the public not to bring pets to the terminal unless necessary. 

 

The incident, captured on CCTV in early April, has triggered discussion about pet ownership responsibilities in public areas, especially at airports where public safety and convenience are paramount. 

 

AOT is contemplating measures to prevent similar incidents from happening in the future, including potentially requiring pet owners to keep their animals leashed or held at the airport. These reforms could align with global standards for pet regulation in public spaces, ensuring airports remain safe and comfortable for all users.

 

Picture courtesy of Khaosod

 

-- 2024-05-04

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[Thailand Live Saturday 4 May 2024]

Pheu Thai Party Leader Aims for Full Score in Problem-Solving Before Next Election

 

Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Picture courtesy of Wikipedia

 

Paetongtarn Shinawatra, leader of the ruling Pheu Thai Party, says her party is committed to solving Thailand’s significant problems before the next general elections. Speaking at the party’s headquarters in Bangkok, she insisted they would secure a 'full score of 10' for problem-solving.

Full story: 

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326532-pheu-thai-party-leader-aims-for-full-score-in-problem-solving-before-next-election/

 

[Pheu Thai Party Leader Aims for Full Score in Problem-Solving Before Next Election]

 

Paetongtarn Shinawatra, leader of the ruling Pheu Thai Party, says her party is committed to solving Thailand’s significant problems before the next general elections. Speaking at the party’s headquarters in Bangkok, she insisted they would secure a 'full score of 10' for problem-solving.

 

She defended Pheu Thai's choice 10 months prior to form a governing coalition to address Thailand's issues, which she blamed on past coups. She believes the decision was right, asserting that the coups led to decades of stalemate and missed opportunities. 

 

Paetongtarn, youngest daughter of Thaksin Shinawatra, a former prime minister deposed in one of the coups, remains confident in her party’s ability. She cites their experience in running the country and leadership of coalition governments as crucial factors in addressing existing issues.

 

She took aim at the Bank of Thailand for resisting calls to lower policy interest rates and targetted out-of-date laws, promising their replacement with modern versions designed to position Thailand as a leading hub in aviation and finance.

 

She also presented a vision for a ‘digital government’, promising transparency and speed. In the security and foreign affairs sectors, efforts to forge excellent relations with global superpowers are high on the agenda as well as positioning Thailand as a hotspot for diplomatic dialogue.

 

Under the current administration led by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, she promised the implementation of innovative policies to promote the nation's prosperity despite criticism from their opponents. 

 

The event also saw the soft launch of the PTP Academy, aimed at improving the potential of Pheu Thai's personnel and extending collaboration with external organizations.

 

TOP: Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Picture courtesy of Wikipedia

 

-- 2024-05-04

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[Thailand Live Saturday 4 May 2024]

Israel-Hamas Conflict Affects Thai Exports, Claims TPSO

 

Picture courtesy of National News Bureau of Thailand

 

The current friction between Israel and Hamas continues to influence Thai exports negatively, states the Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO).

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326531-israel-hamas-conflict-affects-thai-exports-claims-tpso/

 

[Israel-Hamas Conflict Affects Thai Exports, Claims TPSO]

 

The current friction between Israel and Hamas continues to influence Thai exports negatively, states the Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO). In the first quarter of 2024, Thai exports to Israel decreased noticeably while markets in the United Arab Emirates and Qatar performed better. 

 

Increased shipping costs and delayed delivery times arising from the conflict involving the Red Sea have added to the uncertainty in trade, even as tensions appeared to subside by April end. 

 

There has been a reduction in Thai imports and exports of particular products like rice, rubber products, and automobiles & equipment in Q1 2024, with continuous growth in canned seafood and computers. The import of crude oil and natural gas from the Middle East continues to be in high demand. 

 

In response to the rising costs, the Ministry of Commerce discussed adjusting freight charges and incremental increases with shipping companies to help exporters manage costs. They also negotiated about 'Free Time' at ports to ensure efficient container management.

 

While the conflicts involving Israel, Hamas, and Iran may drag on, the global economy's long-term impact should not be severe. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) forecasts a steady recovery with a 3.2% global economic growth for 2024.

 

Picture courtesy of National News Bureau of Thailand

 

-- 2024-05-04

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[Thailand Live Saturday 4 May 2024]

EC Champions Transparent Senate Elections

 

Picture courtesy of National News Bureau of Thailand

 

In the wake of criticism over anonymous Senate voting, the Election Commission (EC) has defended the process, stating it conforms to legal parameters that cannot be revised by the EC alone.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326530-ec-champions-transparent-senate-elections/

 

[EC Champions Transparent Senate Elections]

 

In the wake of criticism over anonymous Senate voting, the Election Commission (EC) has defended the process, stating it conforms to legal parameters that cannot be revised by the EC alone.

 

Speaking on the matter, EC Secretary General, Sawang Boonmee, reiterated the commission's unyielding compliance with the law. He highlighted that senatorial candidates are mandated to reveal their identities solely to eligible voters and emphasised the public's role in overseeing the voting process.

 

Aiming to boost transparency, the Thailand EC has launched the "Smart Vote" mobile app and a related website. These platforms will share pertinent information about candidates, including their biographies and career backgrounds. Via email or the LINE app, senatorial candidates can publicise their profiles to voters.

 

Addressing a query on the introduction of senatorial candidates, Sawang assured that all actions, including those by Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, the influential figure from the Move Forward Party, uphold legal standards. 

 

He detailed the timeline for senate candidate declaration and voting, stating that it will commence post the issuing of a royal decree and conclude within a two-month span. Modern communication channels like social media and online platforms have been incorporated for candidate introductions.

 

Sawang added that while the media can report and critically assess election proceedings, they must avoid defamation of candidates. He emphasised the EC's preventative measures against corrupt practices and ensured fair play through a well-defined legal structure and process.

 

Picture courtesy of National News Bureau of Thailand

 

-- 2024-05-04

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[Thailand Live Saturday 4 May 2024]

Several Illegal Migrant Workers Arrested in Pattaya

 

Picture: Courtesy of The Pattaya News

 

In Pattaya, 45 illegal workers from Burma were taken into custody during a police operation on Friday, May 3rd. The Chonburi law enforcement acted on a tip from residents worried about the migrant laborers occupying a building in their neighborhood.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326529-several-illegal-migrant-workers-arrested-in-pattaya/

 

[Several Illegal Migrant Workers Arrested in Pattaya]

 

In Pattaya, 45 illegal workers from Burma were taken into custody during a police operation on Friday, May 3rd. The Chonburi law enforcement acted on a tip from residents worried about the migrant laborers occupying a building in their neighborhood.

 

Under the leadership of Pol. Lt. Col. Weerachai Thinkamoot, Chonburi's Deputy Superintendent of Immigration Police, a squad descended on the reported building in the Nongprue sub-district of Chonburi province. Their investigation revealed 107 rooms catered to both Thai locals and foreign workers.

 

In the operation, some individuals tried to escape, but police apprehended 45 persons, comprising of 13 women and 32 men. Immigration authorities further held these detainees at the Chonburi Immigration Office in Pattaya for processing.

 

The review of their passports and visas uncovered a breach of immigration laws. Eight laborers had breached their visa tenure, and 15 others were in Thailand unlawfully without correct documentation.

 

Mr. Ittipat and his son, Mr. Kriangsaak, managers of the said property, reported to the immigration office, denying knowledge about renting to individuals residing in Thailand illegally. They added that they were oblivious to the laws concerning accommodation rental to migrant workers.

 

Pol. Lt. Col. Weerachai briefed Mr. Ittipat and Mr. Kriangsaak on Thai rental laws concerning alien employees. Following this, the detained laborers were informed about their infringements and the possible deportation to their homeland.

 

Picture: Courtesy of The Pattaya News

 

-- 2024-05-04

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[Thailand Live Saturday 4 May 2024]

Pattaya Removes Motorbike Taxi Stand to Restore Walkway Access

 

Picture courtesy of Siam Rath

 

The city authorities of Pattaya, under the direction of Deputy Mayor Mr. Wuthisak Rermkitchakit, interfered with a motorbike taxi stand that was reportedly encroaching upon a public footpath on Second Road.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326527-pattaya-removes-motorbike-taxi-stand-to-restore-walkway-access/

 

[Pattaya Removes Motorbike Taxi Stand to Restore Walkway Access]

Picture courtesy of Siam Rath

 

The city authorities of Pattaya, under the direction of Deputy Mayor Mr. Wuthisak Rermkitchakit, dismantled a motorbike taxi stand that was reportedly encroaching upon a public footpath on Second Road.

 

The stand was alleged to have unauthorized makeshift sunshades, constructed from old umbrellas and advertising boards, obstructing the pedestrian path near the Tops Intersection. This action was taken on Wednesday, May 1st.

 

The unattractive sunshades created a displeasing visual. Officials, therefore, removed these makeshift constructions to restore the public footpath to its original state. The move is a bid to enhance the aesthetics of the area and make the footpath more accessible to pedestrians.

 

Additionally, an agreement was reached with the motorbike taxi drivers who were operating from this stand. They were instructed not to invade public spaces further, and any future encroachment may lead to legal consequences.

 

-- 2024-05-04

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[Thailand Live Saturday 4 May 2024]

Rescue Operation Saves Chinese Student from Kidnapping Attempt 

 

Picture courtesy of Khaosod

 

A Chinese student was rescued by Thai police following a kidnap attempt by a scam gang who demanded a seven-million-baht ransom. The 23-year-old, Dan Wei Su, was lured from Australia and threatened with visa revocation if she didn't comply.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326526-rescue-operation-saves-chinese-student-from-kidnapping-attempt/

 

[Rescue Operation Saves Chinese Student from Kidnapping Attempt]

 

A Chinese student was rescued by Thai police following a kidnap attempt by a scam gang who demanded a seven-million-baht ransom. The 23-year-old, Dan Wei Su, was lured from Australia and threatened with visa revocation if she didn't comply.

 

She first received communication from the scammers impersonating Chinese police, who falsely accused her of financial fraud. Under threat of arrest, Su was coerced to fly to Thailand.

 

Upon arriving in Suvarnabhumi Airport on April 30, Su was scheduled to proceed to Chiang Mai and then to Chiang Rai, with plans to cross into another country.

 

Local police were alerted about her activities around 7:50 pm, and with joint efforts from the Region 5 Provincial Police and the Crime Suppression Division of Samut Prakan, she was found in a hotel room in Chiang Mai's Mueang district.

 

The rescue occurred while Su was on a call with the gang. After the intervention, she was safely transported to the police headquarters for investigation and assistance. Following the rescue, Su was returned to her family, and legal actions are underway with the Chinese embassy being notified.

 

Police Major General of Region 5, Kritthaphon Yisahakorn, revealed that the case falls under the jurisdiction of Samut Prakan province, where Su will file her complaint. Efforts are underway to track down the scam gang within Region 5, with promises of swift action upon their location.

 

The incident underscores the dangers of international scam syndicates and the necessity of intercountry law enforcement cooperation. The ongoing investigation aims to apprehend the culprits and dismantle the network to prevent similar attempts in the future.

 

Picture courtesy of Khaosod

 

-- 2024-05-04

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[Thailand Live Saturday 4 May 2024]

Thai Chamber of Commerce Promotes 10 Provinces for Tourism

 

Mun River. Picture courtesy of Wikipedia

 

The Thai Chamber of Commerce (TCC) has revealed plans to develop ten provinces as prime tourist locations. The scheme, approved by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, aims to spotlight provinces such as Phrae, Lampang, Nakhon Sawan, Nakhon Phanom, Sisaket, Chanthaburi, Ratchaburi, Kanchanaburi, Trang, and Nakhon Si Thammarat.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326525-thai-chamber-of-commerce-promotes-10-provinces-for-tourism/

 

[Thai Chamber of Commerce Promotes 10 Provinces for Tourism]

 

The Thai Chamber of Commerce (TCC) has revealed plans to develop ten provinces as prime tourist locations. The scheme, approved by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, aims to spotlight provinces such as Phrae, Lampang, Nakhon Sawan, Nakhon Phanom, Sisaket, Chanthaburi, Ratchaburi, Kanchanaburi, Trang, and Nakhon Si Thammarat. The goal is to distribute tourism benefits evenly and stimulate local economies effectively. 

 

The initiative's purpose is threefold. First, it illustrates these provinces' untapped attractions, like Lampang's historical temples and Trang's pristine natural beauty. Second, it focuses on infrastructural development in these cities so they are ready to comfortably accommodate higher numbers of tourists. Lastly, the plan aims to strengthen domestic tourism and small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs), major contributors to Thailand's economy.

 

In line with this, TCC is developing schemes to support SMEs. Measures include enhancing access to funds, encouraging digital transformation, and offering mentoring programmes to improve competitiveness. The intention is to equip SMEs with resilience and adaptability, preparing them for a higher influx of tourists.

 

Furthermore, to boost Thailand's economy further, TCC is joining forces with international collaborators such as Food Valley Netherlands, with a focus on improving agricultural productivity and revenue. The TCC also plans to explore branding opportunities for Thai products globally, particularly silk. The Prime Minister's forthcoming visit to Italy provides an excellent opportunity to promote Thai products to the international market.

 

TOP: Mun River. Picture courtesy of Wikipedia

 

-- 2024-05-04

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[Thailand Live Saturday 4 May 2024]

Suspected Arson in Ayutthaya Warehouse Fires

 

Picture courtesy of Naewna

 

Officials are suspecting arson for the recent fires engulfing chemical and industrial waste warehouses in Phachi district, Ayutthaya, according to Jullapong Thaveesri, the outgoing director-general of the Industrial Works Department. This is due to evidence from a previous fire at one of the affected warehouses, also attributed to arson. 

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326524-suspected-arson-in-ayutthaya-warehouse-fires/