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A replica of China’s Fuxing bullet train, bedecked in Thailand’s national colours and gifted during the 29th APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Bangkok in November 2022, now finds itself at the epicentre of a transformative railway saga between China and Thailand. As the wheels of progress turn, the construction of the China-Thailand Railway, a flagship venture under the Belt and Road cooperation framework, gains pace, promising to redefine Southeast Asia’s transportation landscape with cutting-edge rail technology. Last April marked a pivotal moment as a freight train laden with durians embarked on a historic journey, traversing Thailand, Laos, and China, culminating in Guangdong province. Clocking a mere five days, this odyssey highlighted the railway’s efficiency, outstripping traditional maritime routes by at least a week. Upon completion, the China-Thailand Railway will seamlessly merge with the China-Laos Railway, weaving a tapestry of connectivity across the Indochina Peninsula, and bolstering infrastructure ties throughout Southeast Asia. Pitiwat Angsuviriya, a mechanical engineering protégé hailing from Khon Kaen University, reflects on President Xi’s visit, resonating with the spirit of international cooperation amidst post-pandemic uncertainties. “President Xi’s visit to Thailand remains a beacon of hope, symbolising unity amidst global challenges.” The aftermath of Xi’s visit ushered in a new era of collaboration, with China resuming group tour services, facilitating Pitiwat’s enrolment in a transformative railway training programme. Armed with newfound expertise, Pitiwat envisions spearheading Thailand’s railway renaissance, underscoring the pivotal role of high-speed rail in Southeast Asia’s economic ascendancy. Xi’s inaugural visit to Thailand left an indelible mark on locals, with messages of camaraderie emblazoned across Bangkok’s skyline, reinforcing the enduring bond between China and Thailand. In the realm of commerce, China remains Thailand’s largest trading partner, with Thai durian, a prized commodity, finding a voracious market in China, exemplifying the fruits of robust transportation infrastructure, reported The Nation. Wichai Kinchong Choi, a banking luminary, extols the virtues of China’s investment, fuelling Thailand’s economic renaissance. “China’s steadfast commitment to openness and cooperation is steering Southeast Asia towards a brighter future.” Amidst calls for green development, China’s support for Thailand’s EV ambitions underscores a shared commitment to sustainability. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of CNBC Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Can a radical proposal save Phuket’s tourism crisis? by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod English In a bid for autonomy, Phuket Mayor Saroj Angkanapilas is leading a daring move to transform the city into a special administrative organisation to save it from a tourism crisis. The current system, he claims, is holding back progress, leaving the island paradise struggling to keep pace with global rivals. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325342-can-a-radical-proposal-save-phuket’s-tourism-crisis/

In a bid for autonomy, Phuket Mayor Saroj Angkanapilas is leading a daring move to transform the city into a special administrative organisation to save it from a tourism crisis. The current system, he claims, is holding back progress, leaving the island paradise struggling to keep pace with global rivals. “Tourist cities in many countries are far ahead in their development, so Phuket will lose its competitive edge if it continues to use the same administrative system.” Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has yet to receive the proposal but indicated willingness to consider it. With over 10 million tourists inundating Phuket annually, the strain on infrastructure is palpable. Current funds, based on registered residents, fall woefully short of meeting the island’s needs. The proposed Phuket City Administration Act 2018 promises a radical overhaul, envisaging a directly elected mayor and a slew of new laws to tackle pressing issues like waste management and traffic congestion, reported KhaoSod English. If successful, Phuket could emerge as a global contender in the tourism arena. In related news, as the extended Songkran holiday wrapped up on Tuesday, tourists bid farewell to the sun-kissed islands surrounding Pattaya, turning the Bali Hai Pier area into a buzzing hub of activity. Local authorities ramped up services to cater to the influx, ensuring convenience for visitors throughout the holiday period. Officers stationed at the pier witnessed a remarkable influx of tourists from April 12 to 15, with an average of 30,000 Thai visitors and foreign tourists per day seeking leisure and relaxation on the islands. On April 12 alone, 8,102 tourists set sail on island adventures via 42 ferry services. The numbers surged the following day, reaching 16,885 visitors served by 87 ferry trips. In other news, Thailand welcomed over 10 million foreign tourists this year alone, leading to revenue exceeding 500 billion baht, reported the Tourism and Sports Ministry. The data, up to date as of yesterday, shows 10,723,953 foreign visitors have contributed to an income of 518 billion baht. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod English Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand advances its bid for OECD membership to boost economy by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand is forging ahead with its application to become a member of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), a move that is anticipated to significantly enhance the country’s economic growth. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325341-thailand-advances-its-bid-for-oecd-membership-to-boost-economy/

Thailand is forging ahead with its application to become a member of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), a move that is anticipated to significantly enhance the country’s economic growth. The Thai Foreign Affairs Minister, Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara, took a proactive step on Tuesday, April 16, by submitting an official letter of intent to Mathias Cormann, the secretary-general of the OECD, at the organisation’s French headquarters. In a compelling speech, Minister Parnpree articulated Thailand’s readiness and resolute commitment to fast-track its OECD membership. He highlighted that Thailand aligns with the core values and objectives of the OECD, encompassing democracy, the rule of law, human rights, a free-market economy, sustainability, inclusivity, and a dedicated green transition. Minister Parnpree brought attention to Thailand’s four-decade-long involvement with the OECD and its ambitious goal of achieving the status of an advanced economy by 2037. The desire for OECD membership was met with support from member nations, who encouraged an expedited process for Thailand’s accession. The OECD, a pivotal player in international governance, influences crucial sectors such as economy, trade, investment, anti-corruption measures, education, innovation, the environment, and climate change. With 38 member countries, the organization aims to assist in formulating effective public policies under the mission statement “Better policies for better lives.” Reflecting on his address, Minister Parnpree noted that Thailand is the sole country within ASEAN that has maintained close relations with the OECD for a remarkable 42 years. This affiliation has helped to elevate Thailand’s business standards, governance, trade, environmental considerations, competitiveness, and green economy. GDP increase Pointing to a study conducted by the Thailand Development Research Institute, Minister Parnpree noted that OECD membership could potentially increase GDP by 1.6%, equating to an estimated economic value of around 270 billion baht. He argued that OECD membership could bolster Thailand’s economic security, given the developed status of its other member nations. As Thailand aims to navigate beyond the middle-income trap and achieve developed nation status by 2037, Minister Parnpree believes OECD membership would attract increased foreign investment, thereby creating more jobs for Thai citizens. He also noted the potential benefits of OECD’s Green Growth Strategy for Thailand, particularly in human resources development in the environmental sector. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin will lead a committee dedicated to accelerating Thailand’s efforts to secure OECD membership. The Green Growth Strategy, as Minister Parnpree explained, offers guidance and measurement tools to aid countries in pursuing sustainable, environmentally friendly economic growth, reported Bangkok Post. by Alex Morgan Top Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Bangkok aims to reduce plastic use with more water refill stations by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of The Nation To combat plastic pollution, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA)’s Bottle Free Seas project has proven to be a roaring success, with plans now underway to expand its reach by installing an additional 200 drinking water refill points across the city. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325340-bangkok-aims-to-reduce-plastic-use-with-more-water-refill-stations/

To combat plastic pollution, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA)’s Bottle Free Seas project has proven to be a roaring success, with plans now underway to expand its reach by installing an additional 200 drinking water refill points across the city. Launched last August, this eco-initiative has already made a significant dent in plastic bottle consumption, slashing the usage of a staggering 456,894 plastic bottles. Governor Chadchart Sittipunt, the brains behind this green revolution, revealed that the refill stations, set up in partnership with the Environmental Justice Foundation, aim to provide a convenient alternative to plastic bottles for the public. “Every time a bottle is refilled at these stations, one less single-use plastic bottle is used.” Currently, these free drinking water refill stations are strategically located at various hotspots across the city, including Benjakitti Park, Bangkok Art and Culture Centre, CentralWorld, Seacon Square, Fortune Town, Thanaburi Ramya Park, Wachirabenchathat Park, Na Phra Lan Tunnel, and Tha Maharaj shopping centre, reported The Nation. With plans to extend the project’s footprint to public health service centres, district offices, and more public parks, Governor Chadchart has called upon the private sector and philanthropic organisations to join forces in this noble cause. “If everybody collaborates, we will be able to achieve the installation target in the blink of an eye.” ORIGINAL STORY: Bangkok free water refill plan to reduce plastic use Central Pattana, alongside influential partners, spearheads the Bottle Free Seas campaign, urging Bangkokians to swap bottles for reusable options. With a staggering 70 million plastic bottles drowning Bangkok monthly, the initiative aims to flood the city with free water dispensers, starting with the iconic Central World shopping mall. The campaign, a collaborative effort between Central Pattana, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), the Environmental Justice Foundation, and Brilliant Power Co Ltd, was inaugurated by none other than BMA governor Chadchart Sittipunt himself. In a symbolic gesture, Sittipunt championed the cause by refilling his thermos at the newly installed dispenser in front of Central World. With plans to sprinkle nine more water dispensers across Bangkok, the BMA and private partners are tackling the ocean of plastic pollution generated by the city’s insatiable thirst for bottled water. An alarming 70 million plastic bottles are discarded monthly, prompting the launch of the Bottle Free Seas programme. The partners are determined to ride the wave towards a sustainable ecosystem, aligning with Thailand’s ambitious net-zero goal by 2050, reported The Nation. Uthaiwan Anuchitanukul, Assistant Managing Director of Central Pattana, expressed the company’s commitment to nipping single-use plastic in the bud. “Central Pattana wants to make a splash in reducing plastic waste, and that’s why we’ve enthusiastically joined the campaign, installing a water dispenser right at the heart of Central World. Tourists and locals alike are encouraged to ride the green wave by refilling their bottles at our dispenser.” by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of The Nation Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

British man arrested for begging to buy drugs in Koh Pha Ngan by Petch Petpailin Photo via Matichon Thai police arrested a British man after he allegedly begged for money to buy drugs outside a convenience store in Koh Pha Ngan, an island in the southern province of Surat Thani. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325339-british-man-arrested-for-begging-to-buy-drugs-in-koh-pha-ngan/

Thai police arrested a British man after he allegedly begged for money to buy drugs outside a convenience store in Koh Pha Ngan, an island in the southern province of Surat Thani. Locals on Koh Pha Ngan reported to authorities after seeing a foreign man begging outside a 7-Eleven convenience store and using drugs in the area. Officers from the Koh Pha Ngan Police Station and the Tourist Police went to the store near the Phan Thip Market and arrested the foreigner yesterday, April 17. The foreign beggar was identified as a 47 year old Englishman named Nicholas James Hartas. He was found sitting shirtless outside the store with a paper sign that said, “IF YOU CAN. PLEASE! MONEY FOR FOOD.” Police checked Hartas’s criminal history and found that he had escaped arrest in a drug case in Koh Samui and sought refuge in Koh Pha Ngan. Hartas confessed to fleeing from the arrest in Koh Samui, stating that he resorted to begging for food. However, residents informed the police that the majority of the money earned from begging was used to purchase drugs. Officers did not report whether they conducted a drug test on Hartas or found any drugs in his possession. According to MGR Online, Hartas faced two charges: Section 13 of the Begging Control Act: illegally begging. The penalty is imprisonment of up to one month or a fine of up to 10,000 baht. Section 145 of the Narcotics Control Act: possessing Category 1 drug (methamphetamine). The penalty is imprisonment from two to 20 years and a fine of 200,000 to 2 million baht. A similar story about a foreign beggar in Thailand was reported in February. Pictures showed a foreign beggar performing yoga in exchange for money on a footpath near Mor Chit BTS Station in Bangkok. He did several yoga gestures with a sign written in Thai, “I want money 20 baht or more for a plane ticket back home. Thank you.” Thai authorities attempted to arrest and question the foreign beggar, but he disappeared from the scene before the authorities launched the investigation. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Matichon Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Friday 19 April 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325335-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-friday-19-april-2024/

The deputy national chief of police surachate harkpan and four others have been suspended after being accused of involvement with money laundering and an online gambling network, The suspensions follow a meeting yesterday between the head of police and the prime minister. a new committee was established to investigate the five suspects, all have the right to appeal. The department for Digital Economy says it’s planning to return more than 10 billion bahts worth of money and assets seized from call centre scam gangs to their victims. The Anti-Money Laundering Office known as Amlo said it was having a clear out and would distribute more than 6 billion baht cash, seized since 2021 to scam victims. The Move Forward Party has proposed a bill in order to punish ministers and officials who fail to testify after being summoned. The bill purposes that MPs who fail to show up would face investigation while government officials would be subject to disciplinary action. The draft law is meant to allow the House committees to conduct their work more effectively. The government yesterday approved 1.8 billion baht in financial assistance to the Lao government, to maintain and improve a major highway which will shorten the journey time from Nakhon Phanom in Thailand, through Laos, to the border with Vietnam. The funds will also be used to upgrade cargo terminals, storage facilities, road lighting and public utilities. Two English media companies The Tiger and Asean Now have merged, i asked George Anderssen from Asean Now to explain Around the region Indonesia: almost 12,000 civil servants will move to Nu-santara in September, marking the first phase of inhabiting the country's new capital in East Kali-man-tan. The government will cover the cost of flights. In addition, each civil servant is expected to receive one apartment unit in the new capital.. WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: sunny 37 C Bangkok: Sunny 38C Pattaya: sunny, 35C Phuket and the south: Sunny, partly cloudy 33C Hua Hin: Sunny, light cloud this afternoon 35C AQI Orange High Green clear, yellow moderate, Orange High, Red unhealthy. Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, Royal Coast Review, Kulsawek Sawekwannakorn, Thainewsroom.com, The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Windy.com. Wunderground.com -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-04-19 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pheu Thai Looks To Take Back House Speaker Seat By Thai Newsroom Reporters House Speaker Wan Muhamad Nor Matha. Photo: Thai Rath THE PHEU THAI PLANS TO quietly press the Prachachart to return the post of House Speaker to the largest ruling party soon after the first round of cabinet reshuffle has been done, a partisan source said today (Apr 18). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325328-pheu-thai-looks-to-take-back-house-speaker-seat/

THE PHEU THAI PLANS TO quietly press the Prachachart to return the post of House Speaker to the largest ruling party soon after the first round of cabinet reshuffle has been done, a partisan source said today (Apr 18). Given the fact that the Pheu Thai remains as core of the current coalition government with 141 MPs on their side, the Prachachart with only nine MPs led by Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong is sooner than later bound to return the highest seat in the legislative branch to the Pheu Thai, according to the partisan source who only spoke on condition of anonymity. The Prachachart-attached House Speaker Wan Muhamad Nor Matha was not available to comment while Tawee denied he had been pressed by the ruling Pheu Thai, albeit in behind-the-scenes fashion, over that matter. By Thai Newsroom Reporters TOP: House Speaker Wan Muhamad Nor Matha. Photo: Thai Rath Full story: THAI NEWSROOM 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Truck brake failure leads to fatal crash in Chiang Mai by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A tragic accident occurred yesterday at 2.45pm in the Hod district of Chiang Mai when a six-wheeled truck’s brakes reportedly failed, causing it to crash into a procession of revellers. The incident resulted in the death of two individuals and serious injuries to two others. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325327-truck-brake-failure-leads-to-fatal-crash-in-chiang-mai/

A tragic accident occurred yesterday at 2.45pm in the Hod district of Chiang Mai when a six-wheeled truck’s brakes reportedly failed, causing it to crash into a procession of revellers. The incident resulted in the death of two individuals and serious injuries to two others. The procession was part of a traditional ceremony in which participants were enjoying themselves in a parade, carrying a revered Pho tree up the mountain, a ritual known for its vibrant and lively atmosphere. Unexpectedly, the brake failure led to the truck ploughing through the crowd in Ban Bo Luang village, striking the unsuspecting participants. The police chief of Bo Luang Police Station, Anuphap Chaisiri, was alerted to the mass casualty event by the local health centre in Ban Bo Luang. The initial assessment of the victims identified two in critical condition, classified as red patients, one with less severe injuries, a yellow patient, and one with minor injuries, a green patient. All four injured individuals were promptly transported to Hod Hospital for emergency care. Despite the efforts to save them, two of the victims succumbed to their injuries following their arrival at the hospital. The remaining injured are currently receiving medical treatment, and their conditions have yet to be updated. The Thai authorities are now investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident to determine the exact cause and to establish whether any measures could have been taken to prevent this tragedy, reported KhaoSod. The truck driver’s responsibility and the mechanical state of the vehicle are central to the ongoing inquiry. In related news, a 26 year old Thai woman crashed her pickup into a traffic police officer on Highway No. 21 in the central province of Lop Buri on April 16, causing serious injuries to the officer. The accident occurred at Ban Deelang Intersection on Highway No. 21, also known as Saraburi-Lomsak Road, in the Pattana Nikhom district of Lop Buri province. by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Major creditors to rescue distressed Italian-Thai Development by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of ITD Italian-Thai Development (ITD) Plc, currently facing financial distress, is set to receive an infusion of funds from its major creditors. The provision of fresh capital is aimed at bolstering the company’s operations without necessitating any rehabilitation plan. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325326-major-creditors-to-rescue-distressed-italian-thai-development/

Italian-Thai Development (ITD) Plc, currently facing financial distress, is set to receive an infusion of funds from its major creditors. The provision of fresh capital is aimed at bolstering the company’s operations without necessitating any rehabilitation plan. Bangkok Bank (BBL) President Chartsiri Sophonpanich, who is also a key ITD creditor, underlined the strong long-term business prospects of ITD, despite the company currently grappling with liquidity issues. Chartsiri confirmed that BBL, along with other significant creditors, is ready to offer financial support to ITD. “BBL is committed to assisting the customer by providing supplementary liquidity, working capital and facilitating debt restructuring. In addition, every major creditor has assisted ITD with its debt restructuring efforts, so ITD does not need to prepare any rehabilitation plans.” BBL, recognised as the country’s largest lender by total assets and a primary creditor to ITD, chose not to reveal the exact sum of loans it has extended to the beleaguered contractor. The bank also did not disclose the identity of the largest lender among all the primary creditors. Apart from BBL, other major creditors of ITD include Kasikornbank, Krungthai Bank, and Siam Commercial Bank. Last week, ITD communicated to the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) that it has been in discussions with primary creditors to secure financial backing for both short-term and long-term needs to resolve its liquidity challenges. It has received partial support so far and expects to finalise loan agreements to ensure the continuity of its operations. Company debt Additionally, ITD’s creditors have initially agreed to waive the company’s debt-to-equity ratio requirements, after the company failed to uphold the financial ratio condition. However, ITD is implementing modifications to its operational and control systems with an objective to cut costs and improve performance. This step is crucial to ensure the company’s ability to compete effectively and generate profits from its operations. Referring to the Dawei Special Economic Zone (DSEZ) full-phase investment project in Myanmar, ITD reaffirmed to all stakeholders, as per its statement to the SET, that its rights to reimbursement for previous investments remain protected under the Tripartite Memorandum. On the situation in Myanmar, Chartsiri noted that the operations at BBL’s Yangon branch are functioning normally despite the ongoing civil unrest, with contingency plans ready to ensure service continuity. Catering exclusively to corporate clients, BBL’s Yangon branch serves local, Thai, and international companies. Chartsiri added that large Thai corporate entities continue to exhibit a positive trend in regional business expansion, aligning with the growth potential of ASEAN, reported Bangkok Post. by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of ITD Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Russian Man Dies, His Wife Slightly Injured, in Motorbike Crash in Karon, Phuket By Goongnang Suksawat Karon –An intoxicated Russian rider was pronounced dead at the scene while his Russian passenger, his wife, sustained injuries after a motorbike crash in Karon on Wednesday morning (April 17th) which marked the first death of the Songkran Seven Days Road Safety Campaign. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325325-russian-man-dies-his-wife-slightly-injured-in-motorbike-crash-in-karon-phuket/

Karon –An intoxicated Russian rider was pronounced dead at the scene while his Russian passenger, his wife, sustained injuries after a motorbike crash in Karon on Wednesday morning (April 17th) which marked the first death of the Songkran Seven Days Road Safety Campaign. The Karon Police told the Phuket Express that they were notified of the accident 6:00 A.M. at a curve on the Patak Road in Karon. Emergency responders arrived at the scene to find the motorbike in a ditch off the road. The rider was later identified by police as Mr. PAVEL URIADOVA, 40, a Russian national, who was found dead nearby. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

One-Way Traffic Takes Toll on Tourism at Jomtien Beach By Aim Tanakorn Jomtien, Chonburi — Jomtien Beach in Chonburi saw fewer tourists than expected during the recent Songkran holiday. Most businesses blame the ongoing one-way traffic system, which confuses visitors. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325324-one-way-traffic-takes-toll-on-tourism-at-jomtien-beach/

Jomtien, Chonburi — Jomtien Beach in Chonburi saw fewer tourists than expected during the recent Songkran holiday. Most businesses blame the ongoing one-way traffic system, which confuses visitors. Beachside vendor Mrs. Poolsawat Singhsawasdi, 55, complained to local media that tourist numbers between April 12nd-16th were relatively normal, without the usual large crowds witnessed during the normal Songkran holiday. Mrs. Poolsawat believed that the decline might be due to Pattaya’s recent traffic changes, including the implementation of one-way system at Pattaya Beach Road. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Suspect identified in Thai woman’s London murder, killer on the run by Petch Petpailin Photo via MET POLICE Local police announced they have successfully identified the suspect in the murder of a 27 year old Thai woman in London but added that the killer may have fled abroad. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325323-suspect-identified-in-thai-woman’s-london-murder-killer-on-the-run/

Local police announced they have successfully identified the suspect in the murder of a 27 year old Thai woman in London but added that the killer may have fled abroad. The dead body of 27 year old Thai woman Kamonnan “Angela” Thiamphanit was found at her luxury mansion on Stanhope Place, on Bayswater Road, near Hyde Park on April 8. She reportedly bore multiple stab wounds all over her body. A neighbour told local media that she heard a high-pitched scream before Kamonnan’s body was discovered. However, she did not go out to investigate because she did not think she could help. Kamonnan worked in real estate but further details about her career were not disclosed. She rented the mansion through Airbnb but there was no report of whether she lived there alone or with others. Local police believe Kamonnan was acquainted with the murderer because no signs of theft or forced entry were visible at the scene. Moreover, the front door of Kamonnan’s mention was equipped with a camera allowing her to screen the visitors, revealed Detective Chief Inspector Alison Foxwell. “We believe that the person who attacked her was known to her. This isn’t a stranger attack but at some point after April 6 at 6.15am she was attacked in the address and sustained several stab injuries.” The Daily Mail reported on April 16 that police already had the name of the main suspect in Kamonnan’s case but officers believe the person has fled England. Foxwell added that she did not think it would be possible to arrest the suspect within the next two weeks. She added that she would consult with the Crown Prosecution Service about whether or not they had enough evidence to extradite the suspect from outside the UK. According to the Daily Mail, Foxwell and the relevant authorities planned to return Kamonnan’s body to her family in Thailand for a funeral ceremony. ORIGINAL STORY: Delayed police response to Thai woman’s brutal murder in London The brutal stabbing murder of a 27 year old Thai woman, in her residence in Westminster, London, has stirred up public fire against the local police over their delayed response to distress calls from her friends. The unfortunate incident unfolded in a home located on Stanhope Place, near Hyde Park, valued at around US$4 million. The victim Kamonnan Angela Thiamphanit’s lifeless body was discovered on Monday morning. Her neighbours reported hearing screams prior to the gruesome discovery, according to British media. The search for the culprit is still ongoing. The Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed last night that the deceased was indeed a Thai national who had been stabbed. The ministry further revealed that the Thai embassy in London had reached out to the victim’s family and was working closely with the police on the case. As reported by the Daily Mail, law enforcement authorities were alerted by a worried friend of Kamonnan on Sunday evening. Despite this, they failed to arrive at the scene until 13 hours later. The Metropolitan Police confirmed receiving two calls from the same individual at 7.05pm and 9.34pm respectively, as reported by the BBC. Multiple wounds The police force revealed in a statement that the woman was initially graded as a medium-risk missing person prior to the discovery of her body. Officers visited the property on Stanhope Place at 8.30am on Monday. They were confronted with the grim sight of a woman who had suffered multiple stab wounds upon forcibly entering the premises. An autopsy report revealed sharp force trauma as the cause of death. Before Kamonnan’s body was found, neighbours reported hearing two high-pitched screams, followed by an eerie silence. Given the lack of forced entry and the presence of a video entry system at the front door, it is speculated that Kamonnan might have been acquainted with her attacker. The Metropolitan Police has referred the case to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) due to the criticism received for their handling of the investigation. Detective Chief Inspector Adam Clifton made a public appeal for information. “I would appeal to anyone who has information that could assist us, no matter how insignificant you think that may be, to come forward and speak to us. Kamonnan’s family and friends have been devastated by this murder and we must ensure whoever is responsible is held to account.” Neighbours revealed that Kamonnan lived in the £4-million (182 million baht) property situated in the posh neighbourhood of the City of Westminster, just a stone’s throw away from Hyde Park. The property, which served as the Ethiopian Embassy until four years ago, has since been converted into several Airbnb units. Kamonnan’s specific rental spaces within the property remain unknown. The three-storey, five-bedroom terraced home originating from the 1820s is rented, according to a local hotel owner, who was oblivious to the identity of the tenant, reported Bangkok Post. by Petch Petpailin Photo via MET POLICE Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand scraps visa requirements for Kazakhstan tourists by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Xinhua The Thai Cabinet gave its nod for the permanent removal of visa requirements for tourists from Kazakhstan, a government spokesperson announced. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325321-thailand-scraps-visa-requirements-for-kazakhstan-tourists/

The Thai Cabinet gave its nod for the permanent removal of visa requirements for tourists from Kazakhstan, a government spokesperson announced. This move aims to increase the influx of tourists from Kazakhstan, one of the rapidly evolving markets for Thailand’s tourism sector and a significant contributor to the nation’s economic development. Data released by the Tourism Authority of Thailand indicates a remarkable surge in the number of Kazakh tourists, with figures rising from 60,000 to 172,000 within a single year. The majority of these travellers comprise families and couples who choose to spend an average of 14 days in Thailand. Their preferred destinations are beach resorts where they spend approximately 75,000 baht per individual. The TAT anticipates an increase in these numbers, estimating more than 220,000 Kazakh visitors this year. In response to the growing travel demand, Air Astana, the airline of Kazakhstan, has amplified its number of flights to Thailand. The government had earlier initiated visa exemptions for Kazakh passport holders in September as part of a trial project. The policy was further extended until August 31 earlier this year. Thai citizens have been enjoying visa-free travel to Kazakhstan since 2019, permitting them to stay in the country for up to 30 days, reported Bangkok Post. Following suit, a permanent visa waiver for Chinese tourists visiting Thailand was implemented on March 1, reciprocated by China for Thai travellers, under a bilateral agreement. In related news, the Government of Thailand has halted the obligatory TM 6 immigration forms for foreigners arriving in the country via land or sea, effective from April 15 to October 15. This resolution, approved by the Cabinet on April 9, is a response to a suggestion by Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, according to ministry spokeswoman Traisuree Taisaranakul. In other news, Thailand Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin recently announced the country’s ambitions to boost its tourism industry and international relationships, following a promising discussion with French President Emmanuel Macron. Held at the prestigious Élysée Palace in Paris, the meeting centred around a visa-free agreement with Schengen area countries, a strategic move that France has expressed support for. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Xinhua Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe