Thailand News Agency

The Prime Minister, Gen. Prayut Chan-o-cha, has voiced support for the execution of convicted murderers. Concerning the execution of a 26-year-old convicted murderer by lethal injection on Monday (June 19th), the Prime Minister said capital punishment is in line with the law, which specifies the death sentence for manslaughter. Gen. Prayut said most people are also in favor of capital punishment, because it is meant to induce fear in those who are inclined to commit capital crimes. Information and Source Reporter : supawadee wangsri Rewriter : Praphorn Praphornkul National News Bureau & Public Relations

The Thai Prime Minister was scheduled to meet with his British counterpart in London today as part of his official visit to the United Kingdom. Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha arrived in London at London Stansted Airport today for his official visit to the UK until 22 June 2018. He will meet with British Prime Minister Theresa May at 16:15 pm. London time at 10 Downing Street. He met with Thai people in London who came to welcome him at Royal Lancaster Hotel where the officials will be staying. He will also meet with Thai officials working in the UK, as well as major Thai investors in the UK. This visit was considered the first official visit to the European region by this government since December 2017. Information and Source Reporter : Tanakorn Sangiam Rewriter : tewit kemtong National News Bureau & Public Relations

The national reform steering commission approved a ban on import of electronic waste for which an ad hoc committee was set up. Interior Minister Anupong Paochinda said the commission, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister/Defense Minister Prawit Wongsuwan, discussed the issue of improper imports of electronic and plastic waste. He said the panel agreed that import of electronic waste should be halted as so much of it would violate the regulations, and agreed with the banning of all imports of electronic waste in the future. A committee will be established to address this issue, covering the procedures of import permit issuance, shipments and factory establishment permits. The committee will also look into what practices could be more of a burden to the country, and prohibit such activities. "The committee will be responsible for allowing or prohibiting the import of each item, while items already imported must be investigated to find the responsible persons and to see if the pr...

The Ministry of Transport discussed with firms registered in the capital market to find ways and means to establish a special organization in charge of regulating High Speed Rail projects. Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning (OTP) Director-General Chaiwat Tongkamkoon said the agency held a meeting chaired by Deputy Minister of Transport Pailin Chuchottaworn on the establishment of such organization to regulate the High Speed Rail projects. The meeting agreed to the establishment of the special organization to supervise the projects and perform as an independent agency. Three firms have so far offered to help with the establishment of such organization, but the authorities have yet to select one as an official partner. Information and Source Reporter : Tanakorn Sangiam Rewriter : tewit kemtong National News Bureau & Public Relations

Technology Crime Suppression Division (TCSD) Police are seeking a second warrant against the administrator of the “KonthaiUK” Facebook page after an initial warrant failed to deter the site from posting messages attacking the government and the Prime Minister. Deputy Commander of the Tourist Police, Pol Maj Gen Surachet Hakpal has announced the arrest of five individuals wanted for violations of the Computer Crimes Act after posting to the KonthaiUK Facebook Page images and messages attacking Prime Minister Gen Prayut Chan-ocha and his deputy Gen Prawit Wongsuwan, and considered likely to incite confusion and panic among the public. Six others are still at large for disseminating false information via computers. Investigations have found that the administrator of KonthaiUK is registered as WatanaEbbage and is likely to be 56 year old Watana Ebbage, who resides in London in the United Kingdom. A warrant for her arrest has been issued for entering data that could impact national secu...

A former foreign minister has been sentenced to serve two years in prison for aiding a fugitive to legally stay abroad. The Criminal Division for Political Office Holders of the Supreme Court, on Tuesday delivered a guilty verdict in a malfeasance case against former foreign minister Surapong Tovichakchaikul for reissuing two passports for former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra. The court found Mr. Surapong’s offense, which occurred during his tenure of office in the government of then-Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, was against a Foreign Ministry regulation as his action assisted Thaksin to travel to foreign countries legally after being sentenced to a jail term in Thailand and also facing charges in other cases. However, the court released Mr. Surapong on five-million-baht bail and imposed a travel ban on him. Information and Source Reporter : Kitti Cheevasittiyanon Rewriter : Rodney McNeil National News Bureau & Public Relations

The government has confirmed its readiness to meet with representatives of political parties to discuss the future of Thai politics. Deputy Prime Minister Wissanu Krea-ngam said on Tuesday that he can't confirm if every step in the election roadmap will proceed as planned as yet, partly because not all draft laws on local and provincial elections are ready at this stage. When asked about the projection that local and provincial polls will take place in May 2019, Mr. Wissanu said that it was only the Election Commission, that had suggested so. Interior Minister Gen. Anupong Paochinda added that all six draft local election laws are now with the Council of State and the next step has to wait for this review and the correct timing. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Gen. Prayut Chan-o-cha said that Deputy Prime Minister Gen. Prawit Wongsuwon will be in charge of meetings to hear the problems of all involved and any suggestions about the lifting of the ban on political activities, as he...

The Prime Minister is scheduled to visit the United Kingdom this week, during which he intends to enhance bilateral relations and boost investor confidence in the Thai economy. In his remarks on a planned visit to the UK from June 19-22, Prime Minister Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha pointed out that the trip is in line with the European Union’s resolution to upgrade its relationship with Thailand. He confirmed that discussions will be held concerning Thailand’s progress in all respects, especially the economy, trade and investment and the development of the Eastern Economic Corridor. The Prime Minister added that election-related procedures being implemented under the government’s roadmap will be thoroughly explained to the UK in a bid to bolster confidence in the Thai democratic system. He is adamant the pursuit of former Prime Ministers Thaksin and Yingluck Shinawatra, who are reportedly living in exile in the UK, will not be brought up as the matter is already in the hands of responsible...

The Cabinet has agreed to offer tax reductions and exemptions to some foreign companies which set up head offices in Thailand. Following the weekly Cabinet meeting, Government Spokesperson Lt Gen Sansern Kaewkumnerd announced that a green light has been given to a draft royal decree under the Revenue Code pertaining to the adjustment of tax policy. He elaborated that the legislation will provide tax reductions and exemptions for transnational companies in exchange for their establishment of headquarters in the Kingdom. The incoming investors will also be required to bring along their subsidiaries in order to be eligible for the privileges. As this condition would allow a wide range of companies to qualify, the government has decided to reserve the tax cuts and waivers, for only those involved in technological research and development in the country. The draft law, once enacted, is expected to greatly benefit domestic trade and logistics. Information and Source Reporter : Surap...

The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) has resolved to maintain the policy interest rate at 1.5 percent as the Thai economy is considered to be growing continuously. MPC Secretary-General Jaturong Jantarangs, revealed today that members of the committee have reached a consensus to keep the interest rate unchanged at 1.5 percent per annum with a vote of 5-1. He explained that the stable monetary policy will accommodate further expansion of the Thai economy, which has been moving in an upward trend in tandem with tourism and export growth. Other supporting factors include a steady increase in private investment and progress of state investment projects despite some disbursement delays. On the other hand, among factors that should be monitored are the uncertain trade policy of the US and trade conflicts between the superpower country and its partners, which could affect Thai exports and inflation. During the meeting, the MPC also revised upwards its economic growth projections from 4.1...

Thailand's Ministry of Industry has joined hands with the private sector to organize Manufacturing Expo 2018, showcasing cutting edge technology from 46 countries that will support industrial production. The expo is intended to encourage businesses to keep pace with the latest technological developments and become 4.0 industries of the future. Deputy Industry Minister, Somchai Hanhirun, said that exposing businesses to production technologies at the event will make Thai entrepreneurs realize the importance of changing production patterns and adopting advanced technologies. The expo will feature experts consulting on robotics and automation technologies in various businesses, along with return on investment analyses. Manufacturing Expo 2018 will take place on June 23rd at BITEC Bang Na. Information and Source Reporter : Benjamin Rujopakarn Rewriter : Pichanan Inpota National News Bureau & Public Relations

Thailand's Government Housing Bank (GHBank) will celebrate its 65th anniversary by offering special mortgage programs at the upcoming GHBank Expo in Bangkok. Chairman of the Board at GHBank, Surachai Danaitangtrakul, said the comprehensive real estate exhibition will support the government’s policy of providing housing for low and middle income citizens and will stimulate the real estate sector. GHBank President, Chatchai Sirilai, revealed that the bank has prepared 6.5 billion baht for issuing loans during the four-day event, which will feature highlights such as low-interest mortgages, reduced fees for up to four years, and 1.8% interest on deposits under one million baht. Products include new homes by real estate developers at discount prices, affordable homes from the National Housing Authority for qualifying low-income citizens, second-hand homes by specialized state-run financial institutions at discounts of up to 50%, and up to 300 foreclosed properties offered by the Le...

The Thai government has promised an acceptable resolution to the oil palm oversupply problem while transport operators are poised to ask for an adjustment to their rates despite a state cap on diesel prices, currently set at 30 baht per liter. A public relations team from the Ministry of Finance has explained that, on June 19, the Cabinet approved a ministry regulation setting the price of B20 biodiesel at 5.152 baht per liter, pushing its retail price to 3 baht lower than B7 diesel at 27 baht per liter. The measure is to attract transport operators towards biodiesel, keeping capital costs of public and goods transport down while also benefiting oil palm producers. To avoid impact on the nation’s revenue however, the Excise Department has increased its duty on B7 diesel by 14 Satang from 5.85 baht to 5.98 baht. The Ministry of Energy will, nonetheless, use its oil fund to keep diesel prices stable. The lower priced B20 fuel will be made available to transport trucks from July 1. ...

Tourist arrivals rose 6.3% to 2.8 million in May 2018. The Permanent Secretary for Tourism and Sports, Pongpanu Svetarundra, said the majority of visitors last month were from East Asia, followed by Europe, South Asia, and the United States. Mr. Pongpanu said the Chinese remained at the top of international arrivals. For 2018, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports aims to achieve a 10% year-on-year growth in the number of visitors, or around 37 million to 38 million. Information and Source Reporter : supawadee wangsri Rewriter : Praphorn Praphornkul National News Bureau & Public Relations

The Cabinet has approved tax incentives for multi-national corporations’ investment in research and development to promote innovations and technology in Thailand. The spokesman of the Prime Minister’s Office, Lt. Gen. Sansern Kaewkumnerd said on Tuesday that the weekly Cabinet meeting approved in principle the draft royal decree on the reduction and waiver of taxes to promote investment by multi-national corporations in Thailand. The tax incentives are specifically aimed at MNCs’ investment in research and development of technology in the country. Lt. Gen. Sansern said that details of the tax incentive program will vary from company to company, as it will be subject to the nature of each business and tailored to attract foreign investors to use Thailand as an R&D base, which will help create more jobs and bring in further investment as the implementation of the country’s Eastern Economic Corridor initiative is progressing. Information and Source Reporter : Kitti Cheevasitt...

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment has declared eight types of stingray and three types of sawfish as protected species. As recommended by the National Wildlife Conservation and Protection Committee, the Natural Resources and Environment Minister, Gen. Surasak Kanchanarat, on Wednesday (June 20th) issued an announcement to include eight types of stingray and three types of sawfish in the list of protected species. These protected species include curve-fin ghost stingray, short-fin ghost stingray, thorny-tail ghost stingray, Manda stingray, Giant Manda stingray, fresh-water Rahu stingray, Chaophraya stingray, Ronin stingray, green sawfish, sharp-mouth sawfish, small-teeth sawfish, and giant sawfish. The ministry's announcement will become effective 60 days after its publication in the Royal Gazette. Information and Source Reporter : supawadee wangsri Rewriter : Praphorn Praphornkul National News Bureau & Public Relations

The Biotechnology Alliance Association (BAA) recently held a meeting to develop measures to control the use of certain herbicides before proposing them to the Department of Agriculture (DOA). The BAA meeting looked into the use of paraquat, chlorpyrifos and glyphosate herbicides and how to use them in the farming industry. Experts from educational institutions, health and agriculture-related organizations also participated in the meeting. They all agreed that a tracking system should be developed to monitor the importation of these chemicals in order to control the amount used in the farming sector. They also wanted research to be conducted to find safer alternatives to these substances. Manufacturers of paraquat, chlorpyrifos and glyphosate must be required to provide training to farmers and retailers on how to use them safely, the meeting decided. Warning labels should also be placed on the products to provide safety instructions to users. These herbicides should only be sold...

A monsoonal system covering the Andaman Sea and Gulf of Thailand has prompted the setting up of red flags in many areas of the south to deter tourists from entering the water, where waves of 2-3 meters are now a threat, and are causing runoff in Ranong and Chumporn. A section of the Asia Highway running through Kunkrating sub-district in Chumporn province has been hit by runoff, damaging several small vehicles and motorcycles. Authorities have been placed on site to facilitate travel and warnings have been issued to nearby communities. In Ranong, mountain runoff has swelled Kraburi River canals already high after days of rain. The situation has impacted hundreds of households in Kraburi district with some single story homes already completely submerged. Power and communications have been cut to the area and residents have been forced to depend on survival kits passed out by the authorities. Red flags have been placed along beaches in Phuket province and lifeguards have been stati...

Progressive Indian restaurant “Gaggan”, on Bangkok’s Langsuan Road, has been ranked fifth on this year’s World's 50 Best Restaurant Awards, with Thai restaurant “Nahm” in Bangkok’s Metropolitan Hotel coming in at 49th. The World's 50 Best Restaurants this year gave first place to “Osteria Francescana” in Modena, Italy, managed by Chef Massimo Bottura. His use of local materials has become a favorite among enthusiasts looking to experience traditional Italian flavors. It is the second time the restaurant has received the award, the first being back in 2016. Second place went to “El Celler de Can Roca” in Girona, Spain, which is famous for its desserts, wines and beverages. This restaurant took the top spot twice in 2013 and 2015. Third place this year went to “Mirazur” in Menton, France. Information and Source Reporter : Benjamin Rujopakarn Rewriter : hugh brammar National News Bureau & Public Relations

The Ministry of Culture has organized a seminar for religious organizations and government officials to understand the practices and traditions of different religions The Permanent Secretary for Culture, Kritsayapong Siri, said on Tuesday (June 19th) that the seminar will promote unity of people of different faiths. When people unite, they can help propel the country's interests. Mr. Kritsayapong said religions bring hope to many people, and religious leaders can use their teachings to rescue people from their misery and make them a better person. On January 31st, 2017, the cabinet instructed the Ministry of Culture to be in charge of preserving and promoting all religions, as religions are one of the three traditional pillars of Thai society alongside the nation and the monarchy. Information and Source Reporter : Suwit Rattiwan Rewriter : Suwit Rattiwan National News Bureau & Public Relations

Rayong Irrigation Project has come up with a 10-year plan to ensure water availability for the Eastern Economic Corridor project. Rayong Irrigation Project Director Prasan Prueksachart said the irrigation plan to support the EEC project which will be piloted in Rayong calls for the province to allocate more water availability over the next 10 years without affecting the water supply. He said Rayong Irrigation Project calls for the plan to get started later this year to enhance the water availability, beginning with the expansion of Khlong Yai water reservoir, and the increase in height of dam walls at other reservoirs to increase capacity. The eastern province is expected to see no shortages of water if the volume of rainfall remains normal. More water pumping systems are also being installed this year to ensure good delivery of water to all areas, espeacially at industrial estates which will receive better water supply from Khlong Yai canal after the renovation project has been ...

Siam Business Administration College (SBAC) is working with Thailand's National Council for Peace and Order, police and residents of Sai Mai district in Bangkok to launch a campaign to encourage motorcyclists to wear helmets. Over 100 residents of Sai Mai district took part in a motorcycle parade to encourage both motorcyclists and their passengers to wear helmets. The parade traveled from the SBAC campus to Ying Charoen Market. Along the route, participants educated the public on safe driving practices and raised awareness of the importance of wearing helmets. Officers from Bang Khen Police Station were also present to help encourage safety awareness and compliance with traffic laws, in order to reduce loss of life and property. Information and Source Reporter : Benjamin Rujopakarn Rewriter : hugh brammar National News Bureau & Public Relations

Thailand's Ministry of Education has confirmed it will inspect the translation quality of the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) tests, before issuing them to students. Education Minister, Dr Teerakiat Jareonsettasin, chaired a meeting on preparations for the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) for 2018. He revealed that, based on analysis of past PISA results, a lack of familiarity with the test and vague translations were sources of confusion among test takers. His ministry’s conclusions echoed those of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), which is the body responsible for administering the PISA assessment. The meeting also recognized remarks by the Director of Mahaprutaram Girls' School, Alai Phromchana, who said that past assessments were given to Mattayom 3 or Grade 9 students. However, the OECD's testing criteria stipulates that test subjects must be 15 years of age and have undergone basic educati...

The National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT) has joined the Bureau of the Budget in holding a forum titled “The Future of Thailand: Research for the People”. Representatives from various organizations attended the session which was organized to discuss how to carry out and apply research that is beneficial to the nation and effective at dealing with its issues. Matters raised at the forum included inequality, access to research and innovations and national development. Deputy Prime Minister, ACM Prajin Junthong, chaired the opening of the forum and gave a lecture titled “Modern Era Research Reaches the People”, saying research and innovations are key to economic and social development and that the government has prioritized such undertakings as part of the Thailand 4.0 agenda. ACM Prajin called for research and development that will strengthen Thailand and its competitiveness. He said citizens must be able to access research and innovations that are responsive to their needs,...

The Director-General of Thailand's Department of Industrial Works, Mongkol Pruekwatana, has ordered the closure of five waste recycling plants in the East for filing false import claims. Mongkol said today that these factories allegedly imported electronic waste illegally and allegedly made false claims in an attempt to avoid being detected. The other two waste treatment factories in the eastern region remain open on the condition that the quantity of electronic waste being recycled does not exceed one percent of all waste materials treated. Regarding the proposal to terminate the import of electronic waste altogether, the Director-General said it would be possible under the Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and Their Disposal and Thailand’s Hazard Substances Act B.E. 2535. Despite the possibility, Mongkol said that further discussion is needed. Thailand imported more than 64,000 tons of electronic waste last year and at least 52,000...

Thailand's National Legislative Assembly (NLA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Department of Land Transport (DLT) and the Don't Drive Drunk (DDD) Foundation to promote road safety, launching a campaign seeking videos inspiring social awareness of the issue. Vice President of the NLA, Surachai Liengboonlertchai, as chair of the NLA’s emergency coordination committee, explained at the signing ceremony that its intention is to reduce loss of life on roadways. He added that the DLT has received 2.32 million baht in support of its road safety programs, which it will use to carry out activities and campaigns instilling safe driving etiquette in road users. All three bodies are confident the agreement will lead to further collaboration in the future. DLT and DDD are now running a program seeking video clips inspiring road users to drive more safely and to be aware of road dangers that emerge from risky behavior and inappropriate practices. Those interested can su...

Deputy National Police Chief Pol Gen Weerachai Songmetta found illegal electronic waste at a treatment plant in Samut Prakan province during a raid on Tuesday. Pol Gen Weerachai and a group of officials including Samut Prakan Governor Chartchai Uthaiphan and those from the Ministry of Industry and related agencies visited Electro Chemical Technology Corporation in Bang Phli district after the company allegedly made false claims on imported materials. During the inspection, they found discarded television screens containing lead and mercury. Factory employees, consisting of Thai and migrant workers, claimed they worked for foreign employers. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha has instructed related agencies to take all necessary steps to prevent illegal imports of dangerous electronic waste. Information and Source Reporter : Nuppol Suvansombut Rewriter : Thammarat Thadaphrom National News Bureau & Public Relations

Education Minister Dr. Teerakiat Jareonsettasin insists that the government is serious about eradicating corruption following complaints over the embezzlement of state funds allocated to a school lunch program. Dr. Teerakiat claimed the embezzlement of the government’s money for the school lunch program took place before this government came into office. He added the money that schools received, which amounts to 20 baht per student, was adequate to provide quality food for students. The Ministry of Education has sent a team of legal officers to various schools regionally to inspect the management of the lunch program to prevent graft. Regarding complaints against 12 schools in Prachinburi, Pitsanulok, Surat Thani, Surin, Lopburi, Khon Kaen and Narathiwat, Secretary-General of the Office of Basic Education Commission Boonrux Yodpheth has already instructed local OBEC offices to investigate. They will also inspect the quality of food in addition to the management of the lunch pro...

Prime Minister Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha has urged alien workers to register and have their nationalities proven before the end of this month. Gen Prayut has been briefed on progress made during the second phase of the migrant worker registration process nationwide. The PM was advised this week that around 28,380 migrant workers have yet to have their nationalities verified. Out of that figure, 22,770 of them are Cambodians while the rest are Laotian citizens. All Myanmar workers have reportedly completed the process. Around 59,000 of those, who have had their nationalities proven, still need to obtain visa stamps and work permits. The premier urged them not to wait until the end of this month to fulfill such requirements as the one stop service centers would be crowded, adding that the registration period will not be extended. If they fail to do so, they must leave Thailand, Should they return they may find employment only via a Memorandum of Understanding that Thailand signed wit...

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha assigned the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives to hold more negotiations with pineapple buyers to alleviate the price slumps. Regarding a solution to the low prices of pineapple, which dropped from 10-12 baht per kilogram last year to only one or two baht per kilogram this year, the premier said it was partially caused by oversupply. He said the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives will now be negotiating with buyers to buy more produces from farmers, with the pricing situation expected to return to normal next month. He added he had instructed the MOAC, the Ministry of Commerce, and the Ministry of Interior, to gather a nationwide data on farming yield, domestic demands for consumption, demands from factories, as well as marketing data domestically and internationally, to analyze market capacities, and create references for farmers to plan their expected yield accordingly. Information and Source Reporter : Tanakorn Sangiam Rewriter...

The Education Minister has confirmed the government’s commitment to tackling corruption in school lunch programs. Education Minister Dr. Teerakiat Jaroensettasin, today gave an assurance that a lunch fee of 20 baht per student is sufficient, if free of corruption. According to the minister, irregularities in school lunch programs occurred long before the current administration came to power. He confirmed the government’s commitment to cracking down on graft and that authorities have been dispatched to inspect schools. Already, legal action has been pursued against the relevant parties. Meanwhile, the Education Commission in Nan province has conducted a random audit of the lunch program at Bang Puey School in Sanian subdistrict and found school lunches to be adequately nutritious and hygienic. No irregularities were found in elementary schools in Nan’s Educational Area District 1. Information and Source Reporter : Benjamin Rujopakarn Rewriter : Benjamin Rujopakarn National News...

The governor of Thailand's Nakhon Ratchasima province has carried out two surprise inspections of school lunches and ordered checks on over 1,400 schools following the discovery of corruption impacting the provision of lunches to students. Nakhon Ratchasima Governor, Vichien Chantarotai, personally led surprise inspections of school lunches at Muang Nakhon Ratchasima School and Nakhon Ratchasima Pre-School, looking into the quality of the meals. The checks follow complaints of non-nutritional lunches being served to students and possible graft in the purchasing of food. The governor found both school cafeterias to be clearly displaying signs for parents indicating the nutritional value of menu items. After, he charged his deputy, Murtathi Rakchartcharoen, with overseeing inspections of 1,400 schools by the province’s 32 district chiefs. Meanwhile, two investigations stemming from the discovery of irregularities in school lunches at Tapan Hin Wittayakarn Municipal School in Ph...

The Election Commission has begun accepting public opinion about the draft law on local elections. EC President Supachai Somcharoen said on Monday that the website of the EC now welcomes public opinion about the draft law governing the election of local councils and executives. Mr. Supachai said that the EC website will stay open for the next 30 days, as called for in the 2017 Constitution. He stated that the EC will compile all opinions gathered from the public and incorporate them into a report for the government. The EC President added that the National Legislative Assembly will be responsible for any change to the law, if the public should ask for it. Regarding five other draft local and provincial election laws, Mr. Supachai said that the Interior Ministry will be responsible for their future development. When asked whether the EC expects local and provincial elections will take place before or after the general poll, Mr. Supachai said that it remains unknown although ...

The Election Commission has taken on new allies in the fight against corruption. Representatives of the EC on Monday signed a memorandum of cooperation with representatives of the Secretariat of the Senate, the Secretariat of the House of Representatives and the Office of the National Anti-Corruption Commission to demonstrate its political determination to eradicate corruption and fraud. All four allies have declared their intention to engage in a campaign to encourage political parties and politicians to adopt the anti-graft resolution, before the election and taking office. They also all agreed to announce their stance via media platforms and to declare measures to promote ethics, while persuading the public to monitor the activities of political parties and politicians in order to help Thailand achieve political transparency, which is in line with the National Strategy and the national reform plan. Member of the National Legislative Assembly Noraniti Setthabut, who is also t...

The Chairman of the Constitution Drafting Committee has suggested the Election Commission start planing the election timeline to help alert all related parties to the upcoming poll. CDC Chairman Meechai Ruchuphan on Monday commented that criticisms from political parties and related groups about the design of the current Constitution and its impact on the political party system are merely speculation about a situation, which is yet to happen. Mr. Meechai said that, while some have been concerned about how the Constitution will change the election landscape, he pointed out that no one can predict how the public will cast their votes. The CDC Chairman, also asked all who have been worried about the adoption of the primary vote system, to be patient and wait for the National Council for Peace and Order to lift its ban on political activities before the process can begin. In addition, he asked the EC to start the planning of the election timeline in order for relevant groups to be ...

The government continues efforts to implement the Thailand 4.0 policy while welcoming opinions from all sides on helping to achieve its goal. While Thailand is transitioning into the digital age, the country’s public administrative system and public services are still lagging behind, specifically the interconnection of the database system with various state agencies. As a result, the public continues to experience slow responses as well as inefficiences affecting the government’s services. Accordingly, the Electronic Government Agency on Monday organized a public forum to collect opinions related to the draft law on digital government to help complete the draft law. Minister Attached to the Prime Minister’s Office Kobsak Pootrakool, who chaired the forum, today stressed that the government is determined to accomplish the Thailand 4.0 policy through the adoption of innovations in public administration and in changing the way the public administration operates while making any ne...

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha discussed with ASEAN Secretary-General Dato Lim Jock Hoi the development of ASEAN as a community which primarily focuses on the people. The Thai premier welcomed the ASEAN secretary-general during his official visit to Thailand to attend the eighth ACMECS meeting. The premier congratulated the ASEAN secretary-general on his inauguration into the office this year, which is an opportunity for Thailand to enhance its partnership with the ASEAN Secretariat, as this country is appointed as chair of the community next year. He expressed Thailand's willingness to work with the ASEAN Secretariat on the realization of ASEAN Community Vision 2025, while the ASEAN secretary-general has praised Thailand's success on hosting the ACMECS this year, and reaffirmed the secretariat's role to liaise with cooperations in politics and security, economy, society, and culture, as well as the preparation of Thailand to become the ASEAN chair in 2019. Both s...

 The government's focus on its Thailand 4.0 agenda continues to emphasize the incorporation of technology and innovation in public administration. Government officials must also adapt to these technological upgrades, in order to provide the public with fast and convenient service, according to the Prime Minister’s Office Minister. As Thailand transitions to digital technologies, public administrative systems and services continue to suffer from bureaucratic delays, a lack of interagency connectivity, and ineffective public services. These problems have been blamed on a shortage of personnel knowledgeable in communications technology. The Electronic Government Agency (EGA) has therefore held a meeting to receive feedback on the Digital Government bill, incorporating public participation in the lawmaking process. Minister Attached to the Prime Minister's Office Dr. Kobsak Pootrakool said today that the government has prioritized the incorporation of innovation in public adm...

The Tourist Police Bureau and the Chana Songkhram Metropolitan Police Station have continued to crack down on illegal behavior by public transportation vehicles in the area, to reduce traffic congestion and protect the country’s tourism reputation. Officials have been stationed in front of the Grand Palace to inspect the ID cards of tour guides and check whether they are adhering to their itineraries. Surveys of tuk tuks or auto rickshaws and taxis in front of Na Phra Lan Road and Tha Chang Pier have resulted in fewer instances of idle parking. Authorities have been enforcing the Land Traffic Act to issue fines of up to 1,000 baht for illegal parking. On the day of the survey, police revealed that around 20 auto rickshaws and taxis had been fined. Earlier, Tourist Police and relevant agencies had implemented stringent measures to prevent auto rickshaws and taxis from taking advantage of tourists. Authorities registered over 500 auto rickshaws and taxi drivers and advised them again...

The Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) has held discussions with the police and financial institutions on using the Anti-Money Laundering Act to seize the assets of online gambling and call center rings. AMLO held the meeting to coordinate between AMLO’s operation center and relevant agencies on the issue of call center fraud. The meeting was attended by representatives of the Royal Thai Police, the Tourist Police Bureau, 36 financial institutions, as well as mobile service providers and e-money solutions businesses. AMLO Acting Secretary-General Pol Maj Gen Romasit Wiriyasan, disclosed that AMLO’s operation center has been receiving complaints from victims of call center fraud since November last year. It has since been able to provide up to 20 million baht’s worth of immediate refunds and has prevented numerous fraudulent cash withdrawals. It has also collaborated with the authorities to crackdown on fraudulent call centers and seize assets. The most recent meeting is intended...

The Deputy Prime Minister for Security Affairs has insisted it is not yet time for the government to set clear dates for meetings with political parties or to lift the ban on political activities. Speaking to the press, Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Gen. Prawit Wongsuwan asserted that the Kingdom has achieved a certain level of reconciliation. He assured reporters that all political activities will eventually be unlocked, and dates will be set for meetings with political parties ahead of the general election. When asked about a push for amnesty by the Palang Prachachat Party for those who have committed political crimes, Gen Prawit said he believes the matter should be discussed by the elected administration. Regarding reports of several political parties expressing their intention to abandon the current administration's 20-year national strategy, Gen Prawit replied that the plan could be amended if later administrations deemed it necessary. However, he claimed t...

Thailand's National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) has voiced support for the Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC) in probing weir projects following reports of impropriety. NCPO member Col Sirichan Ngathong said the body prioritizes action against corruption in all forms and has constantly supported the PACC. She pointed out that Royal Thai Army Commander Gen Chalermchai Sittisat, as Secretary-General of the NCPO, has tasked the Peace and Order Maintaining Command (POMC) with supporting the PACC in investigating complaints and in operating complaint fielding centers, which forward reports of graft to the National Anti-Corruption Center. Recently, Gen Chalermchai ordered the army look into weir building projects under the Thai Niyom Yang Yuen campaign. A total of 1,097 weirs are being built in 45 provinces across the country. A meeting is being held at the PACC to set out guidelines to ensure the transparency and public benefit of the construction projects. Inf...

The Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Prime Minister’s Office has visited the Kuan Kanoun Regional Electricity Office in Thailand's Phattalung province to assess its public services and incorporation of technology. Deputy Permanent Secretary to the Prime Minister’s Office, Sompas Nilphan, visited the Government Easy Contact Center (GECC) at Kuan Kanoun Regional Electricity Office in Phattalung province, one of 497 locations selected from a total 541 that requested approval for establishment. GECC qualification requires that the state office provides public services with an emphasis on convenience and connectivity, allowing for fast and easy access to services that satisfy citizen needs. The GECC in Phattalung has also incorporated technological advancements to increase the satisfaction of citizens seeking to pay their electricity bills, report electricity issues and request the installation of power meters. Information and Source Reporter : Itiporn  Lakarnchua Rewriter : It...

The Ministry of Transport will begin piloting Mangmoom Card common tickets on the MRT network in Bangkok from 23 June 2018, though it is currently not accepted on the BTS Skytrain. Transport Minister Arkhom Termpittayapaisith said his agency will publicly distribute Mangmoom Card, a pre-paid card designed for payment on all modes of public transports in Bangkok, from 22 June 2018, with the MRT being the first public carrier to accept the new payment system from 23 June 2018. A total of 900 cards will initially be distributed at Tao Poon MRT station, and can be used on the MRT Blue and Purple lines. The card will then be accepted on BMTA buses and Airport Rail Link, all of which will also support payments from the welfare card for low-incomers, from 20 Juny 2018, with future implementation planned for Chao Phraya Express Boat. During the pilot phase, each person can receive only one Mangmoom card at any MRT Purple Line stations, while the Mass Rapid Transit Authority (MRTA) will c...

The cabinet approved a draft decree on tax discounts and waivers to promote the establishment of international companies' headquarters in Thailand, said Government Spokesman Lt Gen Sansern Kaewkamnerd. He said the cabinet approved the draft decree issued on basis of the Revenue Code on tax discounts and waivers. The draft law is aimed to allow the amendment to tax measures promoting the establishment of headquarters of overseas firms in Thailand, in keeping with the government's policy to promote the opening of international offices by foreign firms in this country. The tax measures will be applicable on activities related to research and technology conducted in Thailand, while the new law will greatly help boost trading and logistic businesses as well. Information and Source Reporter : Tanakorn Sangiam Rewriter : tewit kemtong National News Bureau & Public Relations

The President of Bangkok Bank spoke today at the AEC Business Forum 2018, expressing confidence in the ASEAN economy despite the escalating trade war between the United States and China. Bangkok Bank President Chartsiri Sophonpanich spoke of the economic potential of ASEAN, despite concerns over the trade dispute between the US and China. He believes the dispute won't affect ASEAN, despite the bloc producing goods in the value chain of both countries. Chartsiri asserted that ASEAN’s economic foundations remain strong at a GDP of 2.8 trillion US dollars, with the potential to grow to 4.6 trillion in the next decade. Although foreign capital is currently flowing out of emerging markets, the Bangkok Bank President believes that the region’s solid economic foundations will continue to attract foreign investment. Within ASEAN, Thailand remains a target country for investment, due to the potential of its Eastern Economic Corridor, other infrastructure projects slated for the next 3-5...

The Department of Land Transport (DLT) has introduced a smart bus terminal system at stations across the country to provide passengers with real-time travel information. DLT Director-General Sanit Promwong has announced that the smart bus terminal system installed at passenger terminals is meant to display relevant information of use to passengers, such as the times of departure and arrival, vehicle number, and travel route, to facilitate more convenient travel planning. In addition, passengers can access the smart bus terminal mobile application that connects them to information available at other stations. The new system is currently operational at 81 stations across the country. The remaining stations that belong to The Transport Company Ltd, such as those at Mo Chit, Ekamai, and Sai Tai, as well as other privately-operated stations will implement the system by the end of the year. Director-General Sanit also reported that the new van terminal in front of Mo Chit Bus Terminal ...

The Conventions and Exhibitions Bureau (TCEB) has organized TIME 2018 to expand into high-value markets catering to the meetings and incentives industry. TIME 2018 is one of several major events organized by TCEB’s Conference and Tourism Promotion Department aimed at creating marketing opportunities, maximizing the potential of MICE businesses, and focusing on “long-haul markets” such as Europe, North America, and Oceania. Clients from long-haul centers tend to extend their stay after the meeting for vacation purposes due to the long travel distance and are often repeat customers, thereby providing high economic value for Thai businesses. TCEB Vice President of Business, Nichapa Yoswee, today disclosed that meetings and incentives account for around 50% of revenue from the country’s meetings, incentives, exhibitions, and conferences (MICE) industry. In the first half of the year, the Meetings (M) group received over 150,000 visitors, growing by 11.81%, while the Incentives (I) grou...

The Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives (BAAC) is taking proactive measures to maintain durian prices in Yala province. According to the Assistant Director of the Yala Provincial Administrative Organization Assistance Thawichart Jullaprom, the BAAC will use the Yala branch of Agricultural Marketing-Co-operative Limited (AMC) as a distribution center to handle the oversupply of durians, before they are transported to markets in other provinces. The AMC branch can handle up to 750 metric tons of durians. Durians will be collected at seven designated locations across the districts of Krong Pinang, Bannangsata and Tan Toh. Three refrigeration rooms have been set up for cold storage. Each place will be able to store up to 50 metric tons of durians. The Yala branch of the BAAC has also set aside 165 million baht to provide low-interest loans to durian farmers, so they can invest in machinery to create durian-based products. Information and Source Reporter : Nuppol Suv...