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https://www.nationthailand.com/thailand/general/40024453

Govt seeks ways to defuse nominee accounts as online scams skyrocket

MONDAY, JANUARY 30, 2023

The Finance Ministry’s Fiscal Policy Office has been tasked with solving the problem of scammers using nominees to open bank accounts and electronic wallets to escape the long arm of the law.

One proposed solution is to allow financial institutions to freeze accounts after receiving complaints from victims, to prevent damage from escalating, said finance permanent secretary Krisada Chinavicharana on Monday.

He said increasing reports of online scams mostly involved tricking victims into clicking links or inputting their personal info, enabling scammers to take remote control of the victim’s mobile device.

The criminals then siphon the money out of the victims’ accounts into one of their nominee accounts, often when the victims are charging their devices and so don’t notice. This has also led to a widespread misconception that cheap charging cables are responsible for money being siphoned from mobile phones.

Krisada said that allowing financial institutions to take control of nominee accounts required changes to several laws and thus needed thorough study.

“In principle, once the money is transferred to an account, the owner of the destination account also legally owns the money. We are looking into ways of freezing only the transferred amount instead of the whole account,” he added.

Krisada also advised people to keep most of their money in a separate offline account for safety, using their online account only for settling and receiving daily bills.

“This second account should have only a small amount of money,” he said.

In the six months between March and October last year, over 114,000 online scams stole a total of 22 billion baht, according to the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society.

The ministry responded by proposing a draft Royal Decree on Cybercrime Prevention and Suppression.

The draft stipulates punishment of up to three years in jail and/or a maximum fine of 300,000 baht for those who open an account, electronic card, or electronic wallet for purposes other than personal use, or who let others use their SIM card for any illegal purpose. Meanwhile the penalty for asking others to open an account or to use their account, electronic card, electronic wallet, or SIM card for illegal purposes would be 2-5 years in jail and/or a fine of 200,000 to 500,000 baht.

The draft was approved in principle by the Cabinet last week.

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Cabinet okays draft Royal Decree on tackling cybercrime

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https://www.nationthailand.com/thailand/general/40024450

Video shows Thai police did extort Taiwanese actress: Chuwit

MONDAY, JANUARY 30, 2023

Thai police did indeed extort money from a Taiwanese actress and her group, as she claims, whistleblowing former politician and massage parlour tycoon Chuwit Kamolvisit said on Monday.

Chuwit also alleged that police had deleted CCTV footage of the incident in their attempt to cover up the scandal.

Taiwanese actress Charlene An (An Yu-qing) alleges she and her friends were victims of a police shakedown while visiting Bangkok early this month. Her allegation made national headlines in Taiwan, to the dismay of Thai tourism operators.

The 33-year-old actress said police stopped their Grab taxi at a checkpoint close to the Chinese Embassy on Ratchadaphisek Road at about 1am on January 5 and detained the group for two hours. She said police eventually released the group in return for a payment of 27,000 baht.

The Metropolitan Police Bureau (MPB) has denied the claims of extortion, saying that CCTV footage of the incident does not back up the actress’s story. Police have contacted Taiwanese authorities in a bid to question An, who has since returned to Taiwan.

In a Facebook post on Monday, Chuwit said a Thai friend who was part of An’s group had paid the 27,000-baht bribe to police.

“The Thai friend had joined a drinking party with Taiwanese actress,” he said, adding that she also had a video clip as evidence.

Chuwit also claimed that MPB chief Thiti Saengsawang had ordered Metropolitan Police Division 1 commander Pol Maj-General Attaporn Wongsiripreeda and Huai Khwang police station chief Yingyos Suwanno to take four steps to cover up the incident.

Chuwit alleges they were ordered to:

• Delete footage from the Chinese Embassy’s CCTV cameras and police body cameras.
• Persuade the Grab taxi driver to say that he stayed at the checkpoint for 40 minutes, had no video of the incident, and that the Taiwanese actress was drunk.
• Release video clips to discredit An.
• Counter the extortion claim by declaring that she had made up the story.

Chuwit said police scandals over collusion with Chinese triads and extortion of the Taiwanese actress had damaged Thailand’s reputation.

“Most importantly, the police made up a story, destroyed evidence and retaliated against Taiwanese actress.”

He added that he expects the police to confess to extortion of the actress soon.

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https://www.nationthailand.com/thailand/general/40024447

Rumours of prices hikes for baby formula, canned fish denied by ministry

MONDAY, JANUARY 30, 2023

Rumours that the government has permitted price hikes for baby formula and canned fish are fake news, according to the Commerce Ministry’s Department of Internal Trade (DIT). However, retailers do have the green light to raise the price of soy milk, said government spokeswoman Ratchada Thanadirek on Sunday.

The ministry was responding to rumours that the prices of infant powdered milk and canned fish were set to increase by 10% and 2 baht per can respectively due to inflation and rising production costs.

Ratchada said both items were on the controlled-products list, meaning any price hike must be approved by the DIT.

“The department has asked manufacturers to fix prices so as not to add to people’s financial burden amid inflation.”

She added, however, that some brands may have increased prices because manufacturers have reduced discounts offered to retailers, who then raise prices to maintain their profit margin.

Regarding rumours of a 1-2 baht rise for a carton soy milk, Ratchada said: “Since soy milk is an alternative product and not controlled under the Price of Goods and Services Act of 1999, manufacturers can raise the price freely.”

However, the DIT has asked manufacturers to submit their cost structure so they can check if the price hike is reasonable, she added.

The prices of 56 products are fixed under the law. The DIT conducts regular market surveys to check that the prices of staple foods such as pork, fresh chicken and cooking oil do not exceed the limit.

The prices of controlled household necessities such as soap, dishwashing liquid, instant food, powdered milk, and toilet paper are checked twice a week.

Manufacturers of controlled products must also seek approval from the DIT before changing their formula, fragrance, or container size in a bid to reduce costs while maintaining retail prices.

Related Stories

Mysteries of Thailand’s New Year gift baskets probed by Trade Dept

Fresh-food demand heats up for Chinese New Year

Price controls on 51 goods, services extended for another year

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https://www.nationthailand.com/thailand/general/40024445

Activist dies of heart attack at rally to release political prisoners

MONDAY, JANUARY 30, 2023

A 67-year-old political activist died of a heart attack in front of the Criminal Court in Bangkok on Sunday as he campaigned for the release of political prisoners.

The death of Pairoj Chotsriphanporn, aka “Uncle Pairoj”, was announced on Facebook by prominent human rights lawyer and activist Arnon Nampa.

Pairoj had joined Sunday’s march from Major Cineplex Ratchayothin to the Criminal Court on Ratchadaphisek Road in an attempt to post bail for political prisoners, Arnon said.

“As a group of lawyers went into the court to submit bail applications, Uncle Pairoj, who was standing in front of the court, suddenly collapsed and lost consciousness,” said Arnon. Medics who treated him said he succumbed to an acute heart attack, he added.

“Uncle Pairoj fought for democracy until his last day. I would like to express my condolences and respect for him as well as all those who fight for the oppressed.”

Protests at the Criminal Court were sparked when Tantawan “Tawan” Tuatulanon, 20, and Orawan “Bam” Phuphong, 23, began a hunger strike on January 16 to demand the release of all political prisoners and the end of lese majeste and sedition laws.

The young activists were charged with defaming the royal family after they conducted a public opinion poll on royal motorcades. They revoked their own bail on January 16 and began a “dry” hunger strike, refusing both food and water.

Their conditions deteriorated on January 20 and they were sent to the Department of Corrections Hospital.

Hundreds of activists gathered at the Court on Sunday to demand the bail release of detainees currently awaiting trial on royal defamation and other charges related to anti-government protests. Thai Lawyers for Human Rights says that at least 1,888 individuals have been prosecuted over their participation in political protests since 2020.

The protest at the Criminal Court is set to continue on Monday.

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Anti-government protesters arrested after five policemen injured in clashes

Arnon threatens police with legal action over assault on protesters

Infected pro-democracy protesters perfectly fine, says prison doctor

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https://www.nationthailand.com/thailand/general/40024439

Thai universities welcome return of Chinese students

SUNDAY, JANUARY 29, 2023

The reopening of China has brought broad smiles to Thai universities as Chinese students return to their classes here and many more are expected to enrol for the next year.

Their return is especially welcomed by several private universities seeing declining enrolment among Thai students in recent years, officials say.

According to the Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Ministry, 14,423 Chinese students were studying at Thai universities in 2020 before the Covid-19 pandemic.

The ministry said 102 Thai universities have enrolled students from China, including 50 in Bangkok and surrounding provinces, 19 in the North and 12 in the Northeast.

The ministry said that 10,083 Chinese students, 70% of the total, were enrolled in private Thai universities in 2020 and the rest in state universities.

The top ten universities for Chinese students in 2020 were:

– Dhurakij Pundit University (2,826 Chinese students)

– Assumption University (1,560)

– Krirk University (894)

– Chiang Mai University (882)

– Stamford International University (824)

– Shinawatra University (592)

– Bangkok University (483)

– Huachiew Chalermprakiet University (451)

– Bangkok Thonburi University (342)

– Rajamangala University of Technology Krungthep (340)

The Chinese Embassy in Thailand said the number of Chinese students studying at all school levels here was as high as 50,000 before the pandemic.

Most came from southern parts of China, including Yunnan and Guangxi provinces, the embassy said.

It quoted a recent study that found several reasons why Thailand attracted a large number of Chinese students. They include:

– China’s universities have limited seats for students.

– The cost of studying in Thailand is affordable.

– There are plenty of courses in Thai universities that Chinese students want to study.

– Chinese students love Thai food, culture and tourist destinations.

– It is not hard for them to obtain visas.

– Cooperation between Thai and Chinese universities enhances opportunities for graduates to find jobs.

The trend of Chinese students studying in Thailand has prompted several Thai universities to adjust courses for them.

Dhurakij Pundit University vice rector Siridej Khamsuprom said his university was among the first Thai universities to tap the market for Chinese students.

He said the success of its courses prompted the Chinese government and education agencies to certify degrees from the university.

Research by Dhurakij Pundit University estimated that Chines students generated 1 billion baht in income a year for Thailand, he said, adding that when they returned to China they helped promote Thai culture and language in China, which improved bilateral ties.

Siridej said the Chinese government also encouraged Chinese students to study in Thailand by granting them scholarships.

Currently, there are over 3,000 Chinese students studying at Dhurakij Pundit University. Their main areas of study are business administration, tourism, and hotel administration.

“When China reopened its borders, Chinese students returned to study in person, after studying online for a few years,” Siridej said.

He expects 1,000 freshmen to enrol in the university this year.

Siridej said his university has cooperated with Chinese universities to develop courses for Chinese students and its Chinese alumni help promote the courses in Shanghai, Beijing, Chengdu, and Kunming.

He said the university is now encouraging educational tourism among Chinese students.

The return of Chinese students is also welcomed by the Khon Kaen Chamber of Commerce.

Charnnarong Buristrakul, its chairman, said Khon Kaen is ready to welcome back Chinse students.

About 2,000 Chinese students are waiting to return to study in the province, Charnnarong said.

He added that the provincial capital is easy to reach because it receives about 20 flights a day from Bangkok. Chinese students can also travel by high-speed rail to Vientiane. It only takes about three hours to reach Khon Kaen from Laos by bus, he added.

Krirk University rector Krasae Chanawong said his university planned to open an international college with some courses adapted for Chinse students to help offset declining enrolment by Thai students.

The number of students at Krirk has declined from over 3,000 to 2,000 a year and it hopes to enrol 1,000 students from China a year, Krasae said.

Currently, about 50 Chinese students are studying language and culture courses at the university, he said.

Rangsit University said about 1,000 Chinese students were studying at the university each year and this year it expects to enrol 400 new students, compared to 300 new students last year.

The university said it had opened a Chinese-Thai Institute because China is placing more importance on Southeast Asia. The institute helps students from China study at the university.

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https://www.nationthailand.com/thailand/general/40024438

Tennis stars explore Thai culture ahead of tournament

SUNDAY, JANUARY 29, 2023

Five tennis stars participated in a range of cultural activities in the resort town of Hua Hin on Saturday ahead of the upcoming 2023 Thailand Open tournament.

The activities at Bluport mall included painting eco-friendly clothing, a gallery visit, and Muay Thai lessons.

Ukrainian Dayana Yastremska joined Anna Karolína Schmiedlová from Slovakia and Katie Boulter from the United Kingdom in an event to promote environmentally friendly clothing. The three painted attire to encourage consumers to pay more attention to the environmental impact of their fashion choices.

They also visited The Gallery Hua Hin museum on the mall’s second floor.

Tamara Zidanšek from Slovenia and Japan`s Nao Hibino studied Muay Thai at The Legend Arena Hua Hin.

All five will participate in the 2023 Thailand Open at True Arena Hua Hin Sports Club in Prachuap Khiri Khan province. The tournament starts on January 30 and runs till February 5.

Related stories:

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Federer’s emotional grand finale ends in defeat

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Along with giving fans the opportunity to watch live tennis matches, the tournament is also an opportunity to promote tourism in Thailand, said Suwat Liptapanlop, honorary president of the Lawn Tennis Association of Thailand.

The tournament’s organisers are using the event to promote Thai art, culture, sport and music, Suwat said.

Hua Hin district is well-known among Muay Thai fans because Thailand’s first world boxing champion, Pone Kingpetch, was born there, he added.

“Celebrities, such as actors, singers or athletes, can help promote Thailand’s soft power because they have fans worldwide,” Suwat said.

He said he hoped Thailand would attract 25 million foreign visitors this year, compared to 12 million last year.

“If we promote Thailand as a host country for international events, such as sports competitions and concerts, it will help attract visitors from around the world to visit here,” Suwat said.

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https://www.nationthailand.com/thailand/general/40024431

Chiang Mai beats Singapore as safest city in Southeast Asia

SUNDAY, JANUARY 29, 2023

Chiang Mai in the North of Thailand was named Southeast Asia’s safest city and the 32nd safest among 416 cities across the world.

According to the Numbeo website, Chiang Mai won 75.5 points for safety in Southeast Asia, followed by Davao in the Philippines (72.4) and Singapore (70.8).

United Arab Emirates capital Abu Dhabi was named the safest city in the world with 88.8 points, followed by Qatar capital Doha (85.5) and Taiwanese capital Taipei (84.9).

Bangkok, meanwhile, came in 170th globally and 7th in Southeast Asia with 59.5 points.

“Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has thanked all related agencies for ensuring safety among people,” government spokesman Anucha Burapachaisri said.

He added that this ranking also reflects the government’s efforts in dealing with crimes, improving people’s lives and boosting confidence among foreigners.

Numbeo is the world’s largest database providing indicators on housing, crime rates, healthcare, transportation, cost of living, etc.

Related stories:

Chiang Mai elephant camp eagerly awaits return of Chinese tourists

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https://www.nationthailand.com/thailand/general/40024428

Tennis player wanted over fatal road accident quits Thai national team

SUNDAY, JANUARY 29, 2023

A 16-year-old tennis player, who faces charges over a fatal road accident, has given up his chance of joining the Thailand national team.

The Lawn Tennis Association of Thailand (LTAT) posted the player’s resignation letter on Facebook.

The letter, addressed to the association’s president, said the player wanted to resign as member of the national team.

The player also asked LTAT to find a replacement but did not specify the reason behind his decision to quit.

The LTAT Facebook post viral, drawing 10,000 reactions and 3,100 shares as of Sunday morning.

The resignation comes after many netizens aired their dissatisfaction with LTAT for choosing a tennis player who is wanted for killing a 24-year-old man in a road accident in Nakhon Ratchasima on October 1 last year.

Many netizens also pointed out that it was not fair to let the tennis player lead a normal life when another family grieves the loss of their son.

Legal action is being taken, while the tennis player’s family has already provided compensation to the victim’s family.

Related stories:

Swede dies in motorbike crash just 5 days after meeting Thai girlfriend

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https://www.nationthailand.com/thailand/general/40024426

Swede dies in motorbike crash just 5 days after meeting Thai girlfriend

SUNDAY, JANUARY 29, 2023

A 50-year-old Swedish national died immediately after his motorcycle overshot a curve in Roi Et’s Suwannaphum district on Saturday, just five days after he met his Thai girlfriend.

Police, medical staff and rescuers rushed to the scene on Suwannaphum-Ban Dong Mai Road where the body of the Swede, identified only as Stefan, was found.

Police believe the accident occurred because the victim was speeding and possibly lost control at the curve, fell into a roadside ditch and hit his head on a concrete pipe.

His body has been taken for an autopsy with legal procedures to follow, the police added.

Meanwhile, the Swede’s girlfriend Veeranuch Buthinkong, 27, said they had been speaking over social media for the past two years before Stefan flew to Thailand for the first time five days ago.

“After lunch, Stefan said he wanted to go on a ride and take photographs, so I warned him to be careful,” she said.

Stefan died some 6 kilometres from the village, she added.

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https://www.nationthailand.com/thailand/general/40024422

Songkran set to become Thailand’s 4th intangible cultural heritage

SATURDAY, JANUARY 28, 2023

Songkran, Thailand’s renowned water festival, is set to be inscribed as intangible cultural heritage (ICH) now that it has been included in Unesco’s tentative list of nominees.

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) included “Songkran in Thailand, a traditional Thai New Year festival” in its list of nominations for 2023.

If Songkran is successfully inscribed, it will become the fourth ICH from Thailand on the prestigious Unesco list after Khon (Thai masked dance) in 2018, Nuad Thai (traditional Thai massage) in 2019 and Nora (dance drama in South of Thailand) in 2021.

Tom yam kung, Thailand’s famous spicy prawn soup, has been on the list of nominees since 2022, the Unesco website shows.

Thailand plans to seek ICH status for other Thai cultural heritage including Muay Thai, Phi Ta Khon (ghost mask festival in the Northeast), khao niao mamuang (mango and sticky rice), and khao kaeng (curry and rice).

Intangible cultural heritage refers to a practice, representation, expression, knowledge or skill considered by Unesco to be part of a place’s cultural heritage.

There are seven branches of intangible cultural heritage –
performing arts, handicrafts, traditional literature, traditional sports, old customs, folk wisdom and language.