A tragic incident unfolded at a popular resort in Chiang Mai, Thailand, at 7.30 am today, where a newly constructed balcony collapsed, leaving several attendees of a seminar injured amidst chaos and cries of pain.

Rescue teams from Ban Waen and Hang Dong swiftly responded to the scene at the Rom Mai Ruean Ngam Resort, situated behind the Ban Waen Subdistrict Office in Hang Dong District, Chiang Mai. Upon arrival, they discovered that the second-floor balcony, which had recently undergone extension works, had given way, injuring approximately 13 individuals. The sounds of distress echoed as the injured were in visible agony, awaiting assistance.

The victims, primarily from the San Kamphaeng District of Chiang Mai, had travelled to the resort for a seminar. The gathering on the newly extended balcony turned disastrous when it collapsed, causing a sudden and violent plunge of the attendees to the ground below. Rescue and emergency medical teams acted promptly, transporting the injured to nearby hospitals for urgent medical care.

Investigations into the cause of the collapse are currently underway by the Hang Dong Police. The incident has raised concerns over building safety regulations and the enforcement of construction standards, particularly in tourist-heavy areas where the influx of visitors necessitates stringent safety measures, reported KhaoSod.

The quick response of the local emergency services highlighted the preparedness of the teams in handling such unforeseen events, but the occurrence itself has left many questioning the integrity of structures at holiday destinations. This tragic event serves as a grim reminder of the critical importance of construction safety and the potential consequences of its neglect.

As the investigation continues, the community awaits answers, hoping for a resolution that will prevent such incidents in the future and ensure the safety and security of both residents and visitors in Thailand’s bustling tourist destinations.

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Thailand and Sri Lanka signed a free trade agreement (FTA) and more in Colombo yesterday, aimed at boosting bilateral trade.

Prime Minister Srettha, who was in Sri Lanka to witness the signing, the second of its kind between the two countries, said in his Facebook post that the FTA will enable Thailand to expand trade to other markets in South Asia and Sri Lanka to use Thailand as a beachhead to expand its trade with other ASEAN countries.

Since many Thai companies already do business in Sri Lanka, the prime minister said that the FTA will open an opportunity for those companies to utilize infrastructure in Sri Lanka and tax privileges granted to Sri Lanka to expand their trade to other countries.

The prime minister also said that Thailand and Sri Lanka signed an agreement on air travel services and agreed to push for visa free travel to promote air travel between the two countries.

Additionally, the two countries agreed to cooperate on clean energy, maritime security and the development of the fishing industry in Sri Lanka, according to the prime minister.

Meanwhile, Thai Airways International will operate its maiden flight between Bangkok and Colombo on March 31^st.

The post Thailand and Sri Lanka sign FTA to boost bilateral trade first appeared on Thai PBS World : The latest Thai news in English, News Headlines, World News and News Broadcasts in both Thai and English. We bring Thailand to the world.

The traditional Chinese delicacy Huabobo, a steamed bun with a history stretching back three centuries, is enjoying a surge in production as the Spring Festival approaches. In the eastern Chinese province of Shandong, food factory workers are busily crafting these colourful, charmingly shaped buns, which carry significant cultural and festive importance.

With Spring Festival around the corner, the atmosphere in Shandong’s food factories is one of bustling activity. Workers are diligently preparing Huabobo, a type of steamed bun that is not only appealing due to its delightful shapes and vibrant colours but also steeped in a rich history dating back 300 years. These buns are an indispensable part of the celebrations, symbolizing hopes for an improved life in the new year, reported Sanook.

In anticipation of the Lunar New Year celebrations on February 10, Bangkok’s Chinatown is preparing for a grand event officially inaugurated by Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. The two-day festivity will showcase lion dance performances, exhibitions highlighting Thai-Chinese ties, and stunning Chinese lantern decorations. Deputy Governor Tavida Kamolvej, at a press conference, underscored the implementation of safety measures, deploying security officers for public well-being. Furthermore, selected Chinese shrines and department stores are set to host independent events. This cultural celebration not only holds significant cultural importance but is also expected to contribute to Thailand’s tourism sector, aligning with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s optimistic projection of a 137% growth in Chinese tourists, seen as crucial for economic recovery.

On top of that, the city’s renowned restaurants are gearing up for the Chinese New Year festivities with specially curated menus. From Royal Orchid Sheraton to JW Marriott, these establishments are offering a diverse array of delectable dishes to usher in the auspicious Year of the Dragon. From opulent feasts to enticing all-you-can-eat dim sum, these culinary experiences promise to elevate the celebration of this significant cultural event. For a detailed guide on where to savour these festive delights, explore our comprehensive list of recommendations for celebrating the Chinese New Year in Bangkok in 2024!

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The Chinese ambassador to Thailand and the Thai-Chinese Cultural Relationship Council (TCCRC) have expressed optimism that the visa exemption scheme for nationals of both countries will boost outbound tourism and reinforce bilateral relations.

Pinit Jarusombat, President of TCCRC, highlighted the special significance of this Chinese New Year as it signifies the onset of a new epoch in Sino-Thai relations. The president further noted the uniqueness of the Chinese Foreign Minister, Wang Yi’s three-day stay in Thailand after signing the contract on January 24, as an exceptional gesture.

The visa-free scheme, set to commence on March 1, promises to permanently exempt citizens of both countries from visa requirements. The primary objective of this waiver is to alleviate travel hindrances for Thai and Chinese travellers and encourage an increased number of Chinese tourists to visit Thailand.

Thailand is a preferred destination for affluent Chinese travellers due to the similarity in the cultures of both nations. Thailand is also perceived as a hub for investment and education within the Asean region, said Pinit.

Pinit also emphasised the benefits to Thai citizens travelling to China as they will no longer endure months of waiting for a visa. He projected a tenfold increase in travel frequency between the two nations within the next two years.

Pinit also stated that Chinese tourists tend to spend approximately 20,000 yuan or 100,000 baht per person while visiting Thailand. This tourism revenue will significantly contribute to various levels of business, reported Bangkok Post.

The Chinese ambassador to Thailand, Han Zhiqiang, stated that the visa exemption would foster a closer bond between the two countries, akin to siblings. “More associations will lead to stronger relationships, and make the saying that Chinese and Thais are not distant but brothers and sisters even more true,” he added.

Han also reaffirmed China’s commitment to promoting world peace following a meeting with the Chinese government. He said, “China has a policy to collaborate with neighbouring countries and other nations in the world. Several policies have been issued to tighten such collaborations. Cooperation with Thailand will improve much more in the future.”

TCCRC president Pinit projected that the bilateral trade value between Thailand and China may hit US$200 billion (7.1 trillion baht) by 2024.

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Fishermen in Phang Nga Bay, Thailand, witnessed an unusual spectacle as they reeled in several giant squids from the waters. The squids, each tipping the scales at 5 kilograms, sparked a flurry of online interest, as netizens began questioning both the origins of these marine creatures and their potential culinary delights.

The massive catch was made by the crew of the fishing boat Chokpapimo, operating from Krabi province, directly across the bay from Phuket. The images of the colossal squid were shared on Facebook by seafood stall operator, Nuch Juraluck, eliciting a wave of comments from fascinated social media users.

While the exact species of the squid remains unknown, local vendors have taken to calling them Muek Jeen, or Chinese Squid. Approximately four to five of these unique squids were caught off the coast of Krabi and their meat was offered for sale at 100 baht per kilogram, reported Phuket News.

Charoenchai Srisuwan, a senior fisheries official in Krabi, corroborated the identification of the unusual sea creature as Muek Jeen and noted its rarity in the region. According to him, such encounters are reported only every three to five years, usually by large trawlers using extensive nets. Notably, there have been no previous reports of these squids being caught near the shore.

Charoenchai proposed that the sudden appearance of the Muek Jeen squids near Krabi’s coast might suggest an increase in biodiversity, possibly due to seasonal fishery closures in the area. However, he also conceded the possibility that these squids may have been forced to migrate due to underwater volcanic activity.

In related news, the rare Oarfish, scientifically known as Regalecus glesne, was discovered near Adang Island, Satun Province, Thailand. Sighted by the fishing vessel Thepcharoenporn 15, the marine creature, resembling mythical sea dragons, can grow up to 9 meters. Debunking myths, the find doesn’t predict earthquakes or tsunamis, likely surfacing due to illness or changing currents. Samples will be preserved for further study.

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The government claims an advantageous outcome of job creation and economic growth for the 1-trillion-baht land bridge project, which connect the Gulf of Thailand and Andaman Sea, but foreign investors are concerned over the pragmatic plans for investment and profitability. 

By Franc Han Shih, Thai PBS World

The post Foreign investors need more clarification on land bridge project first appeared on Thai PBS World : The latest Thai news in English, News Headlines, World News and News Broadcasts in both Thai and English. We bring Thailand to the world.

Two people were killed and 18 others injured when a six-wheel bus carrying a group of workers crashed into a roadside concrete barrier before plunging into a canal in the Bang Bo district of Samut Prakan province Saturday night.

Quoting accounts from some of the workers, police say that the bus, which was carrying more than 20 employees of the Kim Pack company, based in the Welco industrial estate, was travelling at high speed and, because there was no street lighting at a bridge, the driver might not have seen the barrier and crashed into it.

Several construction workers nearby rushed to the rescue and managed to pull everyone from the semi-submerged bus. They were sent to three hospitals in the district.

It is not known as this stage whether the driver was injured, as police try to establish the cause of the accident.

The post Two killed, 18 injured in Samut Prakan bus accident first appeared on Thai PBS World : The latest Thai news in English, News Headlines, World News and News Broadcasts in both Thai and English. We bring Thailand to the world.

Japanese businesses based in Thailand have urged the government to simplify customs duty rules and enhance transport infrastructure, in addition to introducing economic strategies to increase public spending.

The Japanese Chamber of Commerce (JCC) in Bangkok recently communicated with the press to share insights from its newest survey assessing the business outlook amongst Japanese firms and investors in Thailand.

The survey has been conducted twice yearly for the past 53 years to gauge the business environment for Japanese companies in Thailand. The latest iteration, representing the latter half of 2023, concluded on the 20th of December.

Of the 1,646 company members of JCC Bangkok, 539 participated in the survey.

The prime modification sought by Japanese investors was a refinement in customs duty and clearance regulations.

Following this, the second most anticipated improvement was an enhancement in transport infrastructure.

Ranked third was the wish for the government to adopt policies aimed at increasing public consumption.

Jun Kuroda, the chair of the JCC Economic Research Group, stated, “The majority of the Japanese corporations in Thailand face lengthy and time-consuming customs and clearance procedures. The process of tax refunds is unsystematic and confusing.”

Kuroda revealed that the JCC had forwarded its recommendations to the government, and 35% of its members reported experiencing enhancements.

“We have seen improvement in tax regulations, but we’d like them to be better,” he added.

While transport infrastructure has seen progress with the addition of more railways and sky trains, traffic congestion remains a significant issue that requires a solution, reported Bangkok Post.

With the global economic recovery experiencing a slowdown, export demand has dwindled, and domestic consumption of long-lasting goods has been lacklustre, according to Kuroda.

Consequently, JCC members hope the government will take further steps to encourage local expenditure.

Kuroda suggested that revising tax regulations, investing in fundamental infrastructure, and introducing measures to boost government consumption could stimulate spending.

“The second half of the last year showed negative sentiment. However, the first half of 2024, the diffusion index looks more optimistic,” he noted.

The Japanese private sector anticipates a sustained recovery in inbound tourism, the execution of the government’s economic stimulus strategies, and a revival in export demand, he shared.

“We don’t know what policy the government will use to stimulate its economy, but we hope it’s successful,” Kuroda concluded.

In related news, Thailand’s Cabinet has given the green light to extend the 30-day visa-free entry privilege for Japanese visitors, including Japanese business travellers.

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The anticipated 10,000-baht digital wallet scheme, initially scheduled for a May launch, has encountered delays due to a study by the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) warning of potential legal complications. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who is also the finance minister, emphasised on Saturday the need for expedited discussions with Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat to determine the next steps for the initiative.

Despite the obstacles, the government is steadfast in its commitment to the project. The prime minister refrained from specifying the extent of the delay, stating that consultations with the NACC are ongoing. Nevertheless, he acknowledged the public’s anticipation of the scheme, reiterating his commitment to addressing their expectations.

Prommin Lertsuridej, secretary-general to the prime minister, assured that the flagship policy is on course. He revealed plans to proceed with a bill seeking a 500-billion-baht loan to fund the initiative. He stated that the government is set to answer any queries about the scheme once the NACC report is submitted to the government and the digital wallet committee reconvenes next week.

The urgency of implementing the digital wallet scheme is underscored by the current economic downturn in the country. Data from the Fiscal Policy Office (FPO) reveals that the GDP growth was only 1.8% in 2023, falling short of the projected 2.7%. The FPO anticipates a 2.8% economic growth this year.

“Whether or not it’s a crisis, the government will decide. It’s the government’s job to formulate policies to alleviate the people’s plight and take action based on the real situation. This is what it hopes to achieve with the digital wallet” Dr Prommin expressed.

Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai also emphasised the necessity of the digital wallet policy to address economic challenges. He cited a group of economists’ warning that without boosting purchasing power and stimulating the fiscal multiplier effect, Thailand might struggle to manage an economic crisis akin to the 1997 crash, reported Bangkok Post.

In a related development, the Thai government secured a 500-billion-baht loan to stimulate the economy. Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat underscored economic worries, highlighting the necessity for stimulus measures and the substantial loan. Issues involved household debt and slow GDP growth.

The story Thailand’s 10,000-baht digital wallet scheme delayed due to legal complications as seen on Thaiger News.

A deployment of over 4,000 personnel aboard the USS Somerset and USS Miguel Keith is on the horizon for the upcoming Cobra Gold 2024, a joint military exercise taking place in Thailand from February 26 to March 8.

The American soldiers form a significant part of the 9,590-strong contingent from 30 nations participating in these annual drills. The announcement came from General Thitichai Tiantong, Chief of Joint Staff of the Royal Thai Armed Forces, during an event briefing.

The USS Somerset, a San Antonio-class transport dock, and the USS Miguel Keith, a Lewis B Puller-class mobile base, exemplify the US Navy’s advanced capabilities. The focus for the United States this year is primarily on amphibious drills, as disclosed by Colonel Kurtis A Leffler, Chief of the Joint US Military Advisory Group Thailand.

An intriguing aspect of Cobra Gold this year involves the Thai and US navies cooperating to salvage the wreckage of HTMS Sukhothai. The US embassy shared that the ship sank 35 kilometres off the coast of Prachuap Khiri Khan on December 18, 2022, due to a storm, reported Bangkok Post.

The exercise’s core parts will see the active participation of seven nations, namely Thailand, the US, Singapore, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, and Malaysia.

Meanwhile, China and India will restrict their involvement in humanitarian civic assistance training. Australia, on the other hand, will only participate in the command-post exercise.

An additional ten countries, grouped as the multinational planning augmentation team, will rotate their attendance during the exercise. This team includes Bangladesh, Canada, France, Mongolia, Nepal, New Zealand, the Philippines, Fiji, Britain, and Brunei.

The final group, dubbed the combined observer liaison team, consists of ten other countries. These include Cambodia, Laos, Brazil, Pakistan, Vietnam, Germany, Sweden, Greece, Kuwait, and Sri Lanka. They will contribute to different aspects of the exercise.

In related news, US Army Major Andrew Cotter, participating in Cobra Gold military exercise in Thailand, was found dead in a Lop Buri army camp.

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