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- Thai Baht Expected to Slide to 35.50 per Dollar by 2025
File photo for reference only
The Thai baht is forecasted to weaken, reaching 34.50 to the US dollar by the end of this year and sliding further to 35.50 in 2025, according to Kasikorn Research Centre (K-Research). This comes amid new US policies expected to pressure the Chinese yuan.
The baht, currently at a three-month low of 34.61, fell after the US dollar strengthened following a 25 basis points interest rate cut by the Federal Reserve. The Bank of Thailand has kept its policy rate unchanged at 2.25% as of December 18.
Kanjana Chockpisansin from K-Research said, “Despite the Fed's rate cut, a strong US outlook has bolstered the dollar, weakening Asian currencies, including the baht.” The Fed now predicts only two rate cuts next year, down from four earlier, aligning Thai expectations to see two cuts in 2025.
As of 2023, the baht dropped by 1.2%, while the Chinese yuan and Japanese yen fell by 2.7% and 9.3%. The South Korean won saw the biggest decline at 11%, whereas the Malaysian ringgit gained 2%.
Next year, the yuan is expected to further weaken with China's slowing economy and potential US trade impacts. K-Research foresees the baht ending at 35.50 to the dollar in 2025.
Recent market changes include a drop in Thai stocks and a weakening yen amid unchanged borrowing costs in Japan. Gold prices dipped to nearly US$2,600 per ounce, while Bitcoin remained stable above US$100,000.
Economist Pipat Luengnaruemitchai predicts the Bank of Thailand will make three rate cuts in 2025, reducing policy rates to levels from 2015-2018, aiming to ease financial conditions amid inflation and slowing domestic demand.
-- 2024-12-20
20 December 20 20241346773 - Thaksin Outlines Vision for Transforming Thailand's Northeast
File photo courtesy: Facebook sorrayuth9115
In a speech at Nakhon Ratchasima Rajabhat University, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has unveiled an ambitious new vision for the Isaan region. Speaking under the theme "The Future of Isaan: Opportunities for Thailand," Thaksin called for sweeping changes across education, technology, and economic policies to rejuvenate the oft-overlooked Northeastern Thailand.
Stressing the significance of education, Thaksin proposed creating a university focused on human development in Isaan. This institution would prioritise practical knowledge alongside traditional learning, with a strong emphasis on integrating technology. "Education should not stop at degrees," he remarked, "It should empower Isaan people to thrive in a modern economy."
Innovative ideas, like using lottery funds to either send students abroad or bring foreign teachers into summer camps, formed part of his educational strategy. Thaksin referenced his earlier successes with model schools and suggested these could be revived to foster a new generation of skilled workers.
Thaksin didn't shy away from critiquing existing practices such as monopolistic approaches in critical sectors like rice exports. He urged the government to harness technology, enabling local farmers to reach international markets through e-commerce. This shift could drastically reduce intermediaries and increase profits at the grassroots level.
Further, he proposed modernising the OTOP (One Tambon One Product) programme with AI and soft power techniques, which would bolster Isaan as a competitive hub. Universities, envisioned as centres for AI learning, could drive this initiative, equipping locals with the skills necessary for a changing economic landscape.
Tackling Thailand’s ballooning public debt—over 60% of GDP—Thaksin suggested issuing public-oriented cryptocurrency-backed bonds. This maneuver could inject needed capital into regional economies, potentially increasing GDP growth from the current 2% to a robust 4%.
He highlighted the financial imbalances where profits are siphoned to Bangkok, leaving Isaan economically parched, implying bonds tailored for Isaan might just provide the financial liberation the region needs.
Labour migration remains a pressing issue, with skilled workers flocking to Bangkok for better opportunities. Thaksin proposed strengthening local job creation and enhancing educational prospects to lure talent back.
Finally, addressing alarming drug abuse rates among the youth, Thaksin cited current governmental efforts to curb this trend through proactive measures, underscoring that social development must go hand in hand with economic reforms.
Thaksin’s vision represents a comprehensive plan to elevate Isaan, aiming to maximise its potential by addressing both structural and societal challenges head-on. With these reforms, Isaan may very well be on the cusp of a revitalisation, reported The Nation.
-- 2024-12-21
20 December 20 20241346793 - Thailand health ministry warns of new year disease risks
Photo courtesy of KhaoSod
By Puntid Tantivangphaisal
The Ministry of Public Health issued a warning about diseases to watch out for during the new year, particularly influenza and sudden hearing loss.
They urged travellers to monitor their health upon returning from trips abroad. With the weather cooling down and many people travelling internationally, the Department of Disease Control (DDC) has updated its list of diseases with potential outbreak risks.
Covid-19 cases typically rise towards the end of the year. Last week, 730 hospitalisations were reported, an increase from 577 the week before.
Severe cases are primarily among the unvaccinated. Thailand is currently seeing the JN.1 variant at 26.5%, KP3.1 at 16.2%, and XEC at 19.1%. Despite the uptick in cases, no increased severity has been noted, and the situation is under continuous surveillance.
Influenza cases appear to decrease towards the year-end compared to the rainy season but should not be overlooked. In 2023, there was a slight increase in cases at the year’s end, especially in schools with children aged five to nine.
This year, 48 fatalities were recorded, mostly among individuals with pre-existing conditions, unvaccinated, and the elderly. The predominant strain was A/H1N1. Preventive measures for Covid-19 and influenza include regular hand washing, not sharing personal items, eating cooked food, getting vaccinated, and wearing masks in crowded places.
Dengue fever
Dengue fever cases usually decline towards year-end but remain a concern in flood-prone areas like the south. Children are the main risk group for infection, whereas the elderly with underlying conditions are at higher risk of death. Preventing mosquito bites by using repellent is crucial to stop the spread. Dengue vaccines are available in some state hospitals for a fee.
Food poisoning and acute diarrhoea, caused by bacteria and viruses, have seen a rise in cases this year, the highest in the past three years. All age groups are affected, with the most cases among school children aged five to 14. Between 2018 and 2024, 729 cases of Norovirus G1 and G3 strains were reported. Though not a new pathogen, Norovirus has become more prominent due to the reduction in Rotavirus cases following the introduction of a vaccine for infants.
There were 743,697 cases of acute diarrhoea, with two fatalities but none from Norovirus. Hygiene practices, like washing hands with soap and eating freshly cooked food, are vital for prevention. Food handlers with symptoms should refrain from work until recovery.
Other notable diseases include whooping cough, with 1,245 cases and two deaths in 2024, mainly affecting infants under two months in the south. The low vaccination coverage in this region requires emphasis on vaccination, similar to Covid-19 and influenza prevention.
Sudden hearing loss is linked to the Streptococcus suis bacteria in meat, particularly pork, from undercooked consumption. December saw three deaths among individuals over 35 with pre-existing conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease, primarily in the north and northeast.
Cooking food thoroughly, separating utensils for raw and cooked food, and protecting open wounds are necessary precautions. Symptoms range from fever to long-term hearing loss, which is challenging to recover from.
Internationally, avian influenza remains a concern with sporadic H5N1 reports but no human-to-human transmission. Recent cases in Vietnam and the USA involved contact with infected poultry. Consuming cooked poultry, eggs, and dairy, and avoiding contact with sick or dead animals, are recommended. If flu-like symptoms occur, seeking medical attention and informing about exposure risks is crucial.
Monkeypox saw 19,823 cases and 73 deaths globally in 2024, with Africa reporting the majority. Thailand recorded 175 cases mainly of Clade II, with only one Clade Ib case. Avoiding crowded places, not sharing items, and regular hand washing are advised, particularly for those with chronic illnesses or weakened immunity.
Oropouche fever, spread by midges and mosquitoes, had 11,664 cases and two deaths globally in 2024, mostly in the Americas. With a low outbreak risk in Thailand, travellers to affected regions should wear long sleeves, use insect repellent, and seek medical care if symptomatic upon return.
An unknown outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo reported 527 cases and 32 deaths by December 9, mostly affecting young girls with symptoms like fever and fatigue. Further testing revealed malaria in 10 out of 12 samples, indicating the need for additional analysis.
The DDC advises those returning from abroad to maintain personal hygiene, wear masks in crowded places, wash hands frequently, and avoid sharing items. Monitoring personal health and seeking medical advice if symptoms appear within one to three weeks after travel is essential, reported KhaoSod.
19 December 19 20241346658 - Thai Court Rules Traffic Fines Can't Block Vehicle Tax Renewal
Picture courtesy: Thai Rath
In a landmark decision, Thailand's Administrative Court has ruled that outstanding traffic fines cannot be used as grounds to deny motorists their annual vehicle tax renewal.
This case revolved around Amnat Kaewprasong, who faced an unexpected hurdle when the Bangkok office of the Department of Land Transport refused to issue his tax decal due to an unpaid 500 baht fine related to a speeding offence.
Kaewprasong brought the issue to court, arguing that the denial was both unjust and contrary to legal procedures. The court sided with him, instructing the Department of Land Transport to provide the necessary vehicle tax decal within three days from the date the judgement took effect.
Additionally, the court mandated compensation to Kaewprasong of 3,151.50 baht for the inconvenience caused, along with interest at a rate of 3% per annum.
The crux of the court's decision emphasised that while an electronic data-sharing agreement between the Department of Land Transport and the Royal Thai Police was in place to streamline enforcement of traffic regulations, the police failed to adhere to required legal procedures.
Notably, the traffic department had not issued the formal notices required by law for the unpaid fine, nor was there evidence of communication regarding the non-compliance.
Without such notifications, the court maintained that the department had overreached its authority by refusing the tax renewal. The decision sets a significant precedent, reinforcing the principle that due process must be followed, and outstanding fines alone cannot justify withholding essential documents like a vehicle tax decal.
By ensuring these checks and balances are respected, the ruling protects motorists from bureaucratic overreach and underscores the need for lawful and transparent communication between governmental bodies and the public.
This outcome is likely to have wider implications for how traffic fines are enforced and may prompt procedural reforms within the involved agencies to avoid similar situations in the future, reported Thai Rath.
-- 2024-12-21
20 December 20 20241346811 - Thai F-16 Fighters Intercept Myanmar Jet in Airspace Breach
F-16 file photo courtesy: Wikipedia
In a swift response to a potential security threat yesterday, two F-16 fighters from the Thai air force were deployed to intercept an unidentified aircraft intruding into Thai airspace. This incident occurred over Popphra district in Tak province, which borders Myawaddy township in Myanmar.
The alert was raised at around 11 a.m. when radar systems detected the aircraft entering Thai airspace at an altitude of 4,000-5,000 feet. The air force's interception flight control promptly ordered the F-16s to take off from their base at Wing 4 in Takhli district, Nakhon Sawan province. The fighters ascended to 7,000 feet, on a mission to identify and potentially ward off the intruding jet.
The quick deployment underscores the air force's readiness to protect national sovereignty and the integrity of Thailand’s airspace, as stressed by ACM Prapass Sonjai, the air force spokesman. "The rapid interception underscores our capability to respond to threats and ensure security for our citizens near border areas," he stated.
Upon reaching the location, the Thai jets discovered that the intruding aircraft had vanished from radar screens. Concluding the initial phase of their mission, the F-16s continued to patrol the border region until returning safely to base at 12:14 p.m.
While the aircraft's origin remains officially unidentified, this incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding airspace violations and regional tensions. The interception demonstrates Thailand's proactive stance in safeguarding its airspace, particularly along volatile border areas where incursions, whether accidental or deliberate, pose severe security risks.
Such operations are critical in maintaining regional peace and stability, showcasing Thailand’s capabilities and commitment to defending its boundaries. It's pivotal for the Thai air force to remain vigilant and prepared for any future breaches that could escalate into broader conflicts. As the incident demonstrated no immediate threat, diplomatic channels may play a role in addressing and preventing future airspace violations, potentially easing tensions between neighbouring nations.
This event spotlights the continuing necessity for robust air defense mechanisms and international cooperation to prevent misunderstandings that could lead to more significant regional issues. The air force's decisive action reflects its vital role in national security, promising steadfast protection of the airspace across Thailand, reported Thai Newsroom.
-- 2024-12-21
20 December 20 20241346806 - British mother’s tourist warning after drugs kill daughter in Thailand
Picture courtesy of the Daily Mailby Bob Scott
A grieving British mother urged tourists travelling to Thailand to steer clear of drugs after her daughter overdosed on a lethal cocktail of an unknown substance in Bangkok.The 64 year old heartbroken mother, Anita Turner, from Bexhill-on-Sea, East Sussex, has been left shattered by the loss of her beloved 36 year old daughter Rebecca, who died in a Bangkok hotel room after snorting what she believed to be cocaine with her partner.
It was tragically revealed that the powder Rebecca and her partner bought was a lethal cocktail comprising nine different drugs, including painkillers, sleeping pills, and anxiety medications. Anita now warns young travellers to resist the temptations of pushy street dealers, warning that you never really know what you’re getting into.
“My heart is just broken in two. I can’t believe I’ll never see her again. Every morning, I look at her photo and just cry. It’s killing me. The pain of losing a child is indescribable. You can’t imagine such agony until it happens to you. There’s a massive drug problem out there, and you need to be really careful. It’s just not worth the risk.”
Rebecca, who had been exploring Thailand, was set to return home in April, earlier this year, but tragically died on March 15. Having previously spent four years in Laos, a place she considered her second home, she had been attending a friend’s wedding before checking into Bangkok’s Khaosan Palace Hotel with Sam, her partner.CCTV captured Sam entering the hotel half an hour before Rebecca that fateful day, having texted a friend about purchasing cocaine, according to Anita. Tragically, both Rebecca and Sam were found dead around 1pm by concerned friends. Sam’s body was discovered in bed, Rebecca’s on the floor.
Picture of Khaosan Palace Hotel courtesy of Alarmy
Police later disclosed to Anita that Rebecca had a concoction of nine drugs in her system: including opiates, morphine, codeine, noscapine, and a slew of benzodiazepines.“So many people are dying, and they need to know about this. The road where Rebecca was staying is particularly notorious: a boy died of the same thing just a day before. I just want to shake people and tell them: please don’t take anything.”
Though Anita received an autopsy report from Thailand, she claims sections were censored. A UK inquest into the tragedy is expected to be heard in January.
Picture or Rebecca and her mother Anita courtesy of LBC
Original story: Mother mourns British woman found dead in Bangkok hotelThe heartbroken mother of a 36 year old British woman from Bexhill, East Sussex, southeast England has paid an emotional tribute to her daughter, who was recently found dead in a Bangkok hotel room.
Rebecca Turner was on an adventure in Southeast Asia with friends when tragedy struck. Her mother, Anita Turner, described her as a vivacious and outgoing woman who lived life to the fullest.
“Bec was always the life of the party, loved travelling the world, and made friends wherever she went.”
During a four-year stay in Laos, Turner became an integral part of a local village community.
“I’ve only recently discovered the depth of her impact, as many people from around the world and the Laotian community have reached out to me with heartfelt messages. Bec generously supported the local school, providing significant help. The village mayor even held a ceremony to thank her, which was truly touching.”
Turner’s kindness extended beyond financial support. She and a friend from London often biked through the village, buying dolls from underprivileged children and redistributing them to those with nothing. After her death, an Irish bar where she was well-known held a memorial for her, and villagers queued to pay their respects.
“Laos captured Bec’s heart, and she loved it there.”Turner had attended a friend’s wedding in Laos in February and spent some time there before heading to Bangkok, where other friends joined her. She planned to stay in Thailand for two months, with a return to the UK scheduled for April 16, just in time for a holiday in Peru, reported the Daily Mail.
Tragically, on March 16, the British woman and her boyfriend were found dead in their Bangkok hotel room, reported Sussex Express UK.
Turner’s body was repatriated to the UK, and her funeral took place on May 10 in Eastbourne. An inquest into her death is set to open next Tuesday, June 4.
Source: The Thaiger
-- 2024-12-18
18 December 18 20241346510 - Thai Virologist Dismisses Norovirus Outbreak 'Fake News'
Dr. Yong. File photo courtesy: NNT
A wave of concern has swept through Thailand following rumours of an alleged norovirus outbreak. However, experts, including a leading virologist from Chulalongkorn University, are urging calm, labelling the reports as misinformation.
In a clarifying statement released via Facebook on Thursday, Dr Yong Poovorawan, who heads the Centre of Excellence in Clinical Virology, reassured the public that there is no cause for alarm.
Dr Yong, who has been researching noroviruses for over a decade, emphasised the natural diversity of the virus and its usual activity during cooler months. While norovirus incidents have been notably lower in recent years due to increased hygiene during the Covid-19 pandemic, Dr Yong noted a recent uptick as hygiene practices have become relaxed.
The chatter about a significant outbreak allegedly affecting Thai schools in early November gained momentum after being shared widely on social platforms. The post suggested the situation was dire, with claims of widespread sickness among students and staff. However, Dr Yong clarified that the referenced outbreak actually occurred in China, not Thailand, as social media posts mistakenly indicated.
"It's normal to see more norovirus cases during winter, similar to how we see increases in rotavirus cases. There's no need for panic," Dr Yong stated.
In a coordinated effort to dispel fears, the Department of Health also tackled claims regarding an outbreak in Rayong. Social media reports had suggested that 1,436 students and teachers fell ill after a sports day event in early November.
Officials were quick to label these claims as false, explaining that the actual culprit for the illness was identified as Escherichia coli, not norovirus. The department highlighted the importance of proper hygiene to prevent E. coli infections.
With public anxiety brewing over such unsubstantiated reports, authorities are urging citizens to verify information through trustworthy sources before accepting it as fact. The impact of misinformation can be costly, not just financially but in terms of unnecessary panic and disruption.
Despite the social media frenzy, it seems the real virus causing a stir is fake news. For the concerned Thai public, the message from health experts and officials is clear: keep calm, practice good hygiene, and always scrutinise the sources of your information, reported Bangkok Post.
-- 2024-12-20
20 December 20 20241346757 - Indian passengers turn Thai AirAsia plane into party zone - video
Photo courtesy of Odisha TV India
By Puntid Tantivangphaisal
A flight to Thailand turned into a scene of mid-air mayhem, sparking outrage online after a viral video showcased the unruly behaviour of Indian passengers.
Shared by Ankit Kumar, a content creator aboard the Thai AirAsia flight, the footage reveals groups of Indian men standing in the aisle, chatting loudly, snacking, and blatantly ignoring air hostesses’ repeated requests to return to their seats.
Social media erupted after the video, captioned with the sentiment that such antics “bring a bad name to the country,” amassed over 29,000 likes and millions of views. Many users expressed embarrassment over their compatriots’ conduct.
“Money doesn’t get you class!”
“We should never defend such behaviour. It tarnishes India’s image globally.”
Comments poured in from Indians both at home and abroad, highlighting a pattern of poor manners in public spaces.
“I’m half Indian, living in Germany, and this is common—loud talking, blocking train exits, and even playing music on phones without headphones.”
“They’ve turned the flight into a train or bus. This plane hasn’t even landed, and it’s already chaos!”
The incident reignited discussions about civic sense and cultural etiquette. Some users criticised the lack of accountability.
“This is why Bharat remains a third-world country. Stop blaming the government.”
This is not an isolated case. A similar complaint came from a Non-Resident Indian (NRI) who shared on Reddit how Indian passengers on a Munich to Delhi flight caused chaos with loud conversations and disregard for fellow travellers, reported Odisha TV India.
20 December 20 20241346756 - Living the Thai life: Kingdom rolls out red carpet for big spenders
Picture courtesy of Feel Free Travel
By Bob Scott
Thailand is upping the ante in its tourism game, spotlighting the allure of luxury and high-spending travellers to power up the economy post-pandemic.
Known for its warm hospitality, stunning landscapes, and world-class attractions, the nation is seeing a surge in plush hotels and branded properties to cater to this elite crowd.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) set its sights on affluent tourists, primarily professionals earning over US$60,000 (2.05 million baht) annually.
These big spenders splash out more than 6,000-7,000 baht daily, far surpassing the average tourist spend of 4,200 baht per day or 120,000 baht per trip. This exclusive club is largely made up of couples, families, and LGBTQ visitors.
TAT’s Deputy Governor for Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and the Americas, Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, revealed that these segments contributed a hefty 40-50% of last year’s 2 trillion baht in tourism revenue.
However, while basking in success, private sector voices are urging the government to tackle infrastructure and supply chain issues to sustain the competitive edge in luxury travel.
The US and South America have been identified as growing sources of luxury travellers looking for extended stays, while China, Australia, and New Zealand remain key short-haul markets, said Siripakorn.
“We’re promoting Thailand as an affordable luxury destination with exclusive experiences under budget, unmatched by other hotspots.”
Siripakorn also noted the impact of Michelin-approved eateries elevating the fine dining scene for luxe tourists.
“Many tourists have saved for years to create magical moments in Thailand.”
A focus on sustainable activities is driving luxury tourists towards responsible travel experiences, a trend gaining traction globally.
To lure even more premium tourists, TAT is teaming up with US luxury travel advisor Virtuoso and discussing a chic new city guidebook with Louis Vuitton for the upscale European market. Plans are also afoot to make waves at the International Luxury Travel Mart in France.
In the world of luxe retail, Central Retail Corporation Plc (CRC)’s Piyawan Leelasompop sees huge potential in Thailand’s world-class shopping centres. A boost in luxury sales, particularly from Middle Eastern shoppers, hints at Thailand’s potential as a leading luxury tourism hub.
Yet, with stiff competition from Hong Kong and Singapore due to their lower import taxes, Piyawan advocates for tax cuts to woo more international tourists and keep locals shopping at home.
With an ambitious target of welcoming 9 million Chinese tourists next year, a resurgence in Chinese luxury shoppers, previously top consumers before the pandemic, is on the horizon. Economic shifts, including Beijing’s push for domestic spending and anticipated US tariff hikes on Chinese goods, remain pivotal factors, says Piyawan.
The luxury travel sector also finds promise in wellness offerings. Bill Barnett, Managing Director of C9 Hotelworks, noted Thailand’s wellness economy ranked 24th globally in 2022, with 22.4% of its 1.2 trillion baht market stemming from wellness tourism.
Phuket, in particular, shines as a wellness beacon, offering holistic health programmes and housing international hospitals and resorts.
Krabi, famous for its natural allure and upscale hotels, presents additional opportunities to attract luxury guests. Chamnan Srisawat, President of the Tourism Council of Thailand, is investing in a cutting-edge wellness centre in Krabi and planning to expand his fleet of boats for premium tourist services.
Despite these sunny prospects, challenges loom. Siripakorn highlights the need for stronger tourism infrastructure, including enhanced safety, cleanliness, and language skills among workers. Chamnan echoes this, noting that while private operators are raring to deliver luxury, public amenities often lag behind. Taking cues from Japan’s impeccably designed facilities and stellar service could be the golden key to boosting Thailand’s pull with the luxury set.
16 December 16 20241346363 - Thailand Unveils Digital Global Driving Licence via Mobile App
Photo: The Thaiger
In a major move towards tech-driven public services, Thailand's Department of Land Transport (DLT) and Krungthai Bank have launched a new service allowing Thai citizens to apply for international driving licences digitally through the Paotang app. This initiative aims to provide citizens with unprecedented convenience and accessibility by enabling applications 24/7, regardless of location.
Spearheaded by Deputy Minister of Transport Suparpong Piyachote, DLT Director General Jirut Wisanjit, and Krungthai Bank's Head of Product & Business Solutions, Thawatchai Chiwananth, this collaboration marks a pivotal shift in public service delivery. The initiative aligns with the Thai government’s broader goal to integrate digital solutions into everyday administrative processes, thereby enhancing the overall efficiency and quality of life.
Beginning today, the system simplifies obtaining an international driving licence by offering a seamless application process via the app. Applicants can complete all necessary steps—application submission, identity verification, payment, and licence issuance—without needing to visit a government office. The service caters to those driving in countries under the Geneva and Vienna Conventions.
The significant demand for international licences, exceeding 160,000 in fiscal year 2024, highlights the need for such a service among Thais travelling abroad. The digital service incorporates data integration from various agencies and includes a postal delivery option, reducing the associated costs and effort traditionally required.
Beyond this initiative, Krungthai Bank aims to broaden its offerings, including processing vehicle tax payments, managing traffic fines, and providing digital medical certificates for domestic licence renewals. These expansions are set to reinforce accessible, efficient service delivery, showcasing a commitment to digital innovation and public convenience. The project promises a streamlined future for countless citizens navigating international and domestic driving requirements.
-- 2024-12-18
18 December 18 20241346568
