Thailand Video News | Phuket autonomy proposed amidst tourism crisis, British man arrested for using beggar earnings for drugs

In this video, Alex and Jay delve into the news across Thailand. Phuket’s Mayor proposes Special Administrative Status to rejuvenate tourism and infrastructure, while the nation seeks OECD membership to bolster economic growth. Tragedy strikes in Pathum Thani as a fatigue-induced crash claims a monk’s life. Meanwhile, in Koh Pha Ngan, a British man’s arrest for begging highlights ongoing challenges. Bangkok expands water refill stations to combat plastic bottle use, showcasing environmental commitment. Additionally, Thailand calls for positive steps in Myanmar, advocating for the release of Aung San Suu Kyi.

Phuket Mayor Proposes Special Administrative Status to Revitalise Tourism and Infrastructure

Phuket Mayor Saroj Angkanapilas is advocating for the transformation of Phuket into a special administrative organisation to address the city’s tourism crisis and infrastructure challenges. Angkanapilas argues that the current administrative system hinders progress and competitiveness with other global tourist destinations. Although Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has not yet received the proposal, he is open to considering it. The city, which attracts over 10 million visitors annually, struggles with inadequate funding based on its resident population. The proposed Phuket City Administration Act 2018 aims to establish a directly elected mayor and implement new laws targeting critical issues like waste management and traffic congestion. This initiative could position Phuket as a formidable player in the global tourism industry.

 

Thailand Submits Bid for OECD Membership to Spur Economic Growth and Sustainability

Thailand is pushing forward its initiative to join the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), aiming to boost its economic prospects and commitment to sustainable development. On April 16, Thai Foreign Affairs Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara submitted a letter of intent to OECD Secretary-General Mathias Cormann in France. Minister Parnpree emphasised Thailand’s alignment with OECD’s principles, such as democracy, human rights, and a free-market economy, and underscored the country’s four-decade-long association with the organisation. He highlighted the potential economic benefits of membership, including a projected 1.6% GDP growth, which could enhance Thailand’s economic security and help it escape the middle-income trap. The Thai government, led by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, is forming a committee to expedite the membership process, with hopes that OECD’s Green Growth Strategy will attract foreign investments and promote sustainable development.

 

Fatigue-Induced Crash Claims Monk’s Life, Injures Others in Pathum Thani

A devastating accident occurred in Pathum Thani province, on the outskirts of Bangkok, when a sleep-deprived delivery truck driver lost control and struck a group of monks during their morning alms round. The incident took place today, April 18, when 21-year-old Benjamine, driving a black Isuzu D-Max, veered into the monks in Klong Luang district. A 69-year-old monk, Areesak Pathumya from Wat Tawan Rueang, died from his injuries, while another monk and a local almsgiver were also hurt. The driver, who had been awake since midnight for work, confessed to falling asleep at the wheel. Police have charged him with reckless driving resulting in death, and investigations are ongoing. The accident scene and subsequent police findings are currently under scrutiny as legal actions against the driver proceed.

 

British Man Arrested in Koh Pha Ngan for Begging to Fund Drug Purchase

Thai authorities have arrested a British national, Nicholas James Hartas, on Koh Pha Ngan island after he was reported begging outside a 7-Eleven store, allegedly to buy drugs. The arrest occurred near Phan Thip Market on April 17, following local reports of Hartas using the money collected from begging to purchase drugs. Previously escaping arrest on a drug charge in nearby Koh Samui, Hartas admitted to fleeing to Koh Pha Ngan. Although it remains unclear if drugs were found on him at the time of this arrest, he faces charges under the Begging Control Act and the Narcotics Control Act for illegal begging and possessing methamphetamine, respectively. The legal process is underway as further investigations continue.

 

Bangkok Expands Water Refill Stations to Slash Plastic Bottle Use

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is expanding its successful Bottle Free Seas project by adding 200 new drinking water refill stations across the city to curb plastic pollution. Launched in August last year, the initiative has already reduced plastic bottle consumption by nearly 457,000 units. Spearheaded by Governor Chadchart Sittipunt in collaboration with the Environmental Justice Foundation, the project places refill stations in key city locations such as parks, shopping centers, and cultural sites. With a vision to extend these facilities to public health service centers and additional public areas, Governor Chadchart is actively seeking support from private and philanthropic sectors to rapidly meet the project’s expansion goals.

 

Thailand Calls for Further Positive Steps in Myanmar, Urging Release of Aung San Suu Kyi

Thailand’s Foreign Affairs Commission, led by Chairman Noppadon Pattama, has welcomed the relocation of Myanmar’s former leaders from prison to house arrest as a constructive development, but is pressing for more significant actions, including the release of all political prisoners such as Aung San Suu Kyi and Win Myint. This demand aligns with the ASEAN Five-Point Consensus aimed at fostering reconciliation in Myanmar. In addition, the Thai government is advocating for enhanced humanitarian support for Myanmar’s people.

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