reader

Glad to see that US Department of Transportation and its director, Pete Buttigeg, took the initiative in this incident.

After landing late last night, my JAL flight arrived at gate directly opposite immigration. Just as I entered “International Passport” side, young officer asked my age. When I told her, she directed me Priority lane. Either new procedure or evidence of advancing age. 🙂

They could have at least had the decency to turn around. 🙂 From The Thaiger A municipal official in Pattaya is seeking justice after two Thai men attempted to assault him for warning them not to pee in the sea. The men also refused to pay fines for their wrongdoing. The chief of Jomtien Pattaya Municipality Office, Sawate Permpoon, reached out to Channel 7 to share the confrontation with two Thai men on Sunday, October 13 at about 2pm, and also to raise awareness among other beachgoers to help keep the beach and sea clean. Sawate told the media that the office received a complaint from tourists enjoying the beach, who reported that two men were urinating into the sea in front of many beachgoers. The complainants also shared a picture of the men with the officials. Sawate and his team immediately rushed to the scene to warn the men about their illegal actions. He pointed out that their behaviour damaged Pattaya’s image and violated the Cleanliness and Orderliness Act of Pattaya City. According to Sawate, the men ignored his warning and became angry at him and his subordinates, so they left the scene and returned to the office. However, the two followed them to the office, where another argument ensued. https://thethaiger.com/news/pattaya/shorely-not-pattaya-official-demands-justice-after-sea-pee-clash

From The Nation The 29th Book Expo Thailand 2024 opened last Thursday (October 10) to a sizeable crowd and will continue until October 20, offering bookworms 10 days of literary delight. This year’s fair adopts the theme “Reading into the Afterlife” and features the legendary ghost "Krasue" as the symbol of reading, with its glowing internal light representing the ability to read books. Knowledge is compared to this guiding light, illuminating paths for people. The fair saw a bustling crowd over the weekend, with people packing the subway to reach the venue. Once inside the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre, groups of young readers could be seen shopping for books. Every aisle at the fair, filled with publishing houses and bookstores, was crowded. Interestingly, many of the visitors were young, partly because of the mid-term school holiday, with all eager to snap up works by their favourite authors. Suwit Rungwatanapaiboon, president of the Publishers and Booksellers Association of Thailand (PUBAT), told the media that the book industry grew by 5-10% in the first nine months of the year. While the number may seem small, it doesn't yet include online sales. The most popular genres among readers are: Novels – leading at 45% Manga and Japanese teen light novels – 27% Self-help and healing books – 17% Exam preparation guides – 9% General books – 2% In the novels category, BL (Boys’ Love) novels featuring same-gender relationships, particularly male-male love stories,are enjoying a strong presence. Each booth from various publishers offers a wide range of BL novels, with elaborate displays and attractive protagonists that draw readers in. Both Thai and international fans can't resist taking photos at the beautifully decorated booths. he fair also sees a strong presence of bespectacled young male readers, similar to previous years. These fans flock to booths featuring manga and light novels, not only to buy books but also to support non-book items like figures and other premium goods. The National Book Fair is spread over 20,000 square metres and boasts more than 2 million books from 286 publishers across 855 booths, along with more than 100 activities for visitors to enjoy. The association expects around 1.6 million attendees this year, up from 1.3 million previously, with sales expected to reach 460-480 million baht, surpassing last year’s 400 million baht. The overall book industry in 2024 is projected to be valued at 16 billion baht. https://www.nationthailand.com/blogs/life/art-culture/40042360

From The Nation Thailand made up for lost time last night (October 14), emerging victorious in the final of the King’s Cup in its first win in 7 years. The match, which was held at theTinsulanonda Stadium in Songkhla, saw the national team, currently ranked 100th in the world, facing Syria, ranked 92nd. Thailand took the lead in the 44th minute with a goal from Ekanit Panya. However, in the 53rd minute, Syria equalised with a goal from Ezequiel Ham. In stoppage time, at 90+1, Thailand's captain, Chanathip Songkrasin, scored the winning goal, securing a 2-1 victory. This marks Thailand's first King's Cup win in 7 years and their 16th title overall. Continues with photos https://www.nationthailand.com/blogs/news/sport/40042361

From Pattaya Mail Thailand – It will not be possible to purchase alcohol in Thailand, except at international airports, for the whole of Thursday 17 October (from midnight to midnight). This is in recognition of the End of Buddhist Lent, Auk Phansa, a very significant date in the Buddhist calendar. However, Auk Phansa is not a public holiday: thus immigration, banks and public services will be open as usual. However, they will be closed for the public holiday celebrating Chulalongkorn Day on Wednesday October 23. Chulalongkorn is not an alcohol-free day.

From Barron's / AFP Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet kept a low profile at the ASEAN summit in Vientiane, holding meetings on the sidelines with fellow leaders but making no public statements to the media. An ex-military man, he marched straight past waiting reporters as he arrived for summit sessions, his most animated moment a jovial conversation with Singapore's foreign minister. More than a year after inheriting power from his father Hun Sen, he has yet to hold an open news conference to explain how he will navigate challenges including balancing China and the West. In contrast, Hun Sen regularly opines on government policy to his millions of social media followers. Analysts say the father remains the power behind the throne in the Southeast Asian nation. Officially, Hun Sen stepped down last year after nearly four decades of iron-fisted rule, passing the baton to his eldest son following a landslide win in national polls held without any significant opposition parties. In February, Hun Sen took over as president of the senate, the country's second-highest ceremonial role after King Norodom Sihamoni, and has since hosted every foreign dignitary visiting the country -- just as he did when prime minister. A few months later, he openly stated his enduring authority. "I have not finished my political life," he told an audience of government officials and foreign dignitaries. "I am the father of the prime minister." Continues at https://www.barrons.com/news/the-son-almost-rises-cambodia-s-hun-sen-the-power-behind-throne-b8bc2b5d ============= From MSN Anti-Vietnam Sentiment Is Raising the Heat on Cambodia's Huns Cambodia is packing it in on a 25-year-old regional agreement with neighboring Laos and Vietnam. In a surprise move, Prime Minister Hun Manet and his father, former Prime Minister Hun Sen-who stepped down a year ago but remains the head of the all-powerful Cambodian People's Party-announced the country's withdrawal from the Cambodia-Laos-Vietnam Development Triangle Area, or CLV, in late September. The announcement came after a protest movement and subsequent crackdown fueled by fears of Vietnamese encroachment, raising questions about Cambodia's future role in regional affairs. The CLV has long roots. It was first broached in 1999 at an unofficial meeting between the then-leaders of the three countries-including Hun Sen himself-as a way to strengthen stability and trilateral interconnectivity, while also acknowledging that many of the countries' provincial communities have long had transborder cultural, social and business ties. When it was officially launched in 2004, the agreement covered 10 border provinces-four in Vietnam and three each in Laos and Cambodia-with an additional province in each country added in 2009. For nearly two decades, investments and development through the CLV gathered pace without incident. Then, earlier this year, an online movement of Cambodians began objecting en masse to the agreement, citing border security and sovereignty as their key sources of concern. Continues at https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/anti-vietnam-sentiment-is-raising-the-heat-on-cambodia-s-huns/ar-AA1rXKqA

From The Nation Your gateway to understanding Thai cuisine, offering an immersive journey into its diverse flavours, traditions and culinary techniques. Continues with video https://www.nationthailand.com/the-journey/gastronomy-tourism/40042253

Kloster was Col. Vikon's favorite in "Bangkok 8".

Sure, hasn't your's?

Don't be surprised if boys are thinking same thing: what has happened to the Thai skills of farangs?

Tip: it pays to advertise: make it clear in your Grndr post that you are only interested in those only with dicks equal to a certain length and girth. And, of course, that you're willing to reward those who possess such characteristics.

From The Nation Thailand's 200-billion-baht beer market is poised for intensified competition as Chang, the country's second-largest brewer, has announced its bid to become the market leader. Chang is brewed by Thai Beverage (ThaiBev). Currently, the Thai beer market is dominated by Boon Rawd Brewery, owner of the Singha and Leo brands, with a 62-63% market share. Chang Beer holds a 32% share, while Carabao Beer of the Carabao Group accounts for the remainder. Songwit Sritham, ThaiBev first vice-president and chief of its beer business, projects that Thailand's total beer market in 2024 will approach 2 billion litres, valued at around 200 billion baht, with single-digit growth expected. Chang Beer's strategy to claim the top spot includes expanding its premium mass product portfolio, led by Coldbrew, Federbroy, and unpasteurised Chang. The company aims to broaden its distribution channels, increase shelf space, and incorporate new technologies and innovations. The overall market in 2025 is anticipated to surpass 2 billion litres, returning to pre-Covid levels, driven by an influx of tourists to Thailand. In response to Chang's ambitious plans, Boonrawd Brewery's chief marketing officer, Thitiporn Thammapimookkul, expressed confidence in maintaining market leadership. She said Singha and Leo beers continue to dominate with a combined 62-63% market share. "Having a brand that wants to increase its market share and become a market leader is a normal part of market competition. We have been proactively marketing every year to maintain our strong leadership in the Thai beer market," she remarked. She suggested referring to the Excise Department for official market-share data, noting that Leo Beer alone held a 50% market share last year and has been the leading brand for 17 years. The Thai beer market is predominantly controlled by domestic companies, which hold about 98% of the market share, with European imports accounting for roughly 1%. Boon Rawd Brewery Group, with its 90-year history in the beverage business, leads with Singha and Leo as its flagship brands. ThaiBev Group, which entered the market in 1994 with Chang Beer, has its main production plant in Bang Ban, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya. A newcomer to the scene, Carabao Group, known for energy drinks, expanded into the beer market with Carabao and Tawan Daeng beers. In 2023, the company invested more than 4 billion baht in a new brewery in Chai Nat, targeting a 10% market share after its first year of operations. As the competition heats up, industry observers are keenly watching to see if Chang can successfully challenge Boon Rawd's long-standing dominance in Thailand's lucrative beer market. https://www.nationthailand.com/business/corporate/40042303

From Bangkok Post Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has ordered law changes to protect conscripts and low-ranking soldiers, with stricter legal enforcement against superior commanders for failing to intervene in military misconduct. After a Defence Council meeting on Friday, Defence Ministry spokesman Maj Gen Thanathip Sawangsaeng said Mr Phumtham outlined a framework for the online recruitment of soldiers, with a focus on their well-being once enlisted. The changes are thought to be partly in response to the recent death of a private tortured during military training. Pvt Siriwat Jaidee, 21, died at Sattahip Naval Base in Chon Buri in July. The conscript was allegedly beaten to death by a military trainer. Pvt Siriwat was forced to run under the hot sun until he collapsed. Pvt Siriwat's tragic death became public when his sister petitioned the House committee on military affairs this month. His death is not an isolated case -- five conscripts have died this year alone from similar brutality. Earlier, People's Party list MP Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn also asked Mr Phumtham to respond to the tragedy.Under broader changes approved at the meeting, Mr Phumtham said soldiers would receive benefits including accommodation, healthcare, opportunities to enrol in the non-commissioned officer academy, and scholarships both here and internationally. The minister also stressed the need for military reform to reduce the size of the armed forces. One pilot project involves replacing military personnel with civil servants from the ministry, particularly those specialising in nursing, education, and budget management, with their salaries, benefits, and pensions to be adjusted accordingly. https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2882808/new-thai-law-to-protect-conscripts

From The Thaiger Local officials have issued a warning about potential flooding in central provinces, starting tomorrow, October 13 and lasting until October 24. Jirayu Huangsub, advisor to the prime minister, highlighted the risk for regions including Chai Nat, Ayutthaya, Pathum Thani, Nonthaburi, Bangkok, and Samut Prakan, particularly in areas outside flood barriers. Efforts to mitigate flooding have seen the Thai Royal Irrigation Department (RID) reducing water discharge from the Chao Phraya Dam. This strategy has successfully improved conditions in Singburi and parts of Ang Thong provinces. Flood relief operations have intensified in Lamphun, focusing on areas affected by the overflow of the Ping River. Water pumps and pushers have been deployed in locations such as Ban Sob Pa and Ban Pa Phai. Officials expect full drainage by October 15. https://thethaiger.com/news/national/warning-issued-for-central-provinces-flooding-risk-from-tomorrow

This is not a make/break issue for me. Too many other metrics factor into a good experience. If it's simply size, you're on the wrong continent.

Usually busy after work.

From the BBC When it comes to longevity, few places in the world have seen such a drastic jump in life expectancy as the island city-state in Southeast Asia. A child born in the country in 1960 was only likely to live (at the time) to 65, but a child born in Singapore today can expect to live to more than 86 according to estimates. In addition, the number of centenarians in Singapore doubled over the 10-year period from 2010-2020. This huge leap in longevity has largely been driven by intentional government policy and investment. The distinction even was enough to have the country named the world's sixth "Blue Zone" in August 2023. Though recently questioned for their accuracy by demographers, the Blue Zones were discovered and coined by National Geographic journalist Dan Buettner, who claimed to identify regions where people lived longer, healthier lives, in large part due to a combination of culture, lifestyle, diet and community. Singapore was the first new region to be added to the Blue Zones in decades (dubbed a "Blue Zone 2.0" by Buettner) and stands apart from the other Blue Zones in part because the longevity of its people comes more from forward-thinking policies than long-established cultural traditions in other Blue Zone communities like Ikaria, Greece or Nicoya, Costa Rica. But it's not just the quantity of life, but also the quality of life that residents here appreciate. We spoke to a few of them to understand which policies and practices make their lives healthier, and happier – and what they recommend to others seeking to live here in search of a longer life. Residents in Singapore have witnessed the government's gradual policy changes that affect their health and wellness. "Having grown up here, I've seen firsthand the transformation in community health consciousness," said resident Firdaus Syazwani, who runs the financial advice blog Dollar Bureau. "The heavy taxation on cigarettes and alcohol coupled with stringent public smoking bans not only improves individual health but also enhances public spaces, making them more welcoming and cleaner. No more second-hand smoke!" He was surprised to learn about the Blue Zone designation, if only because of the high amount of sugar, salt and coconut milk used in local dishes. But even that's changing (if slowly) because of policy. "Given our local cuisine's penchant for richer ingredients, the Health Promotion Board has initiatives to encourage healthier dietary choices among residents," he explained. "Measures like mandatory nutritional labelling and the reduction of sugar content in beverages have made a noticeable difference in public health awareness and choices. Although it's yet to be known exactly how effective this initiative is, I personally tend to steer away from sugary drinks when I see these labels." Continues at https://www.bbc.com/travel/article/20241002-singapore-the-worlds-sixth-blue-zone

From The Nation If you're in Bangkok and eager to explore contemporary art, visit its diverse galleries and museums showcasing everything from bold modern pieces to cutting-edge installations across the city. Continues with video https://www.nationthailand.com/the-journey/cityscape/40042256

From Pattaya News Thailand Legalizes Buffalo Racing and Traditional Card Games On October 10th, 2024, Thailand’s Royal Gazette published ministerial regulations under the Gambling Act, legalizing gambling under the traditional Buffalo Racing Festival (known as “wu laan”) to take place between 6 PM and 6 AM. The regulation aims to align with local customs, particularly in regions where Buffalo Racing is a nighttime tradition, such as Phetchaburi Province. Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has instructed provincial governors to ensure compliance with the law, focusing on promoting tourism, job creation, and preserving local traditions. Strict guidelines are in place to prevent animal abuse, drug use, and underage gambling. The regulation also authorizes 23 additional traditional games with specific time limits, including: Boxing and Wrestling between 12 PM and 12 AM Ring Toss from 7 AM to 12 AM Bingo from 7 AM to 12 AM Mahjong, Tile Games, and Card Games, including poker, from 12 PM to 12 AM on Sundays, and 6 PM to 12 AM on other days Each game is restricted to specified hours and locations as outlined in the permit. The government’s intention is to regulate these games while enhancing local tourism, ensuring public safety, and preventing illegal activities such as drug use and youth delinquency, remarked Anutin. https://thepattayanews.com/2024/10/12/thailand-legalizes-buffalo-racing-and-traditional-card-games-under-new-gambling-rules/ =========================== From Pattaya Mail Play your cards right in Pattaya warns local bridge club The recent arrest of two groups of foreigners in Pattaya for playing poker for money has sparked renewed interest in Thai laws relating to card playing and gambling. Reaction on social media has suggested that card playing here is always illegal, quoting the arrest of 32 bridge players in the resort in 2016. The resulting publicity was a major international news story at the time. But Jomtien and Pattaya bridge club has responded by emphasizing that card playing is not against the law, unless for cash, and that the bridge club was never prosecuted. Club director Jeremy Watson, a former business executive and Thai permanent resident, said, “Our arrest was based on a misunderstanding, which was quickly resolved, and none of our members ever appeared in court or paid a fine.” He added that bridge is regarded as mind sport by the International Olympic Committee, the club being a lifetime member of the provincial sports association in Thailand. Barry Kenyon, the club founder in 1994 and a former British embassy official, said, “The club is 30 years old this week and still going strong. Gambling is irrelevant as bridge is the ultimate trick-taking game, easily the greatest source of fun that four people can have with a pack of cards.” He added that he had actually started two bridge clubs in his long life, one in Pattaya and the other in Port au Prince, capital of Haiti, over 50 years ago. “Papa Doc’s wife was the Haitian sponsor,” Barry recalled. https://www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/play-your-cards-right-in-pattaya-warns-local-bridge-club-475606

From Pattaya Mail Chonburi Immigration carried out a rigorous inspection of foreign workers in Pattaya to address concerns over illegal immigrants competing for jobs with Thai citizens on October 10. A special investigative unit conducted a widespread operation targeting two major fresh markets in Pattaya, Lan Pho Market in Naklua and Rattanakorn Market in South Pattaya. During the crackdown, authorities apprehended over 20 Cambodian and Myanmar nationals working as employees in meat stalls, vegetable shops, and wholesale stores, with some individuals serving as cashiers. In addition, officials intercepted a vehicle transporting undocumented construction workers headed to job sites with contractors. All detained individuals, along with their employers, were taken to Pattaya Immigration Checkpoint for further investigation. Those found violating immigration laws will face prosecution and deportation. Pol. Col. Napaspong Khositsuriyamanee, Superintendent of Chonburi Immigration, emphasized that they had received numerous complaints about foreign workers, particularly from neighboring countries, flooding into local markets, fresh markets, bars, and tourist areas, thereby disrupting local businesses. Chonburi Immigration has taken these concerns seriously and implemented proactive measures to enforce the law more strictly. https://www.pattayamail.com/news/crackdown-on-illegal-foreign-workers-at-local-markets-bars-and-tourist-spots-in-pattaya-475757

Expect that the GoGo bars will close. Hotels will likely continue to serve.

@Verchiele alerted me to the opening of a new shop on Intramara 25 (LINE @Phoenix25). Location link: https://goo.gl/maps/kpzDPXdKakFTrJct5 I'm fairly sure that several years back this shop was occupied briefly by a massage shop that later merged with KK Massage a short distance away. Photos posted today: The shop is offering a promotion of three (3) hour long sessions for $1,000 bht.

Cross currency rates this morning: USD 33.34 EUR 36.44 GBP 43.52 CND 24.20 From Reuters The Bank of Thailand (BOT) will leave its key interest rate unchanged at 2.50% next week and for the rest of the year, according to a Reuters poll of economists who brought forward their first rate cut expectations by a quarter. Inflation quickened in September to 0.61% from 0.35% in August but remained below the BOT's target range of 1-3%. However, median forecasts in the poll showed inflation will return to within the range this quarter. Growth in Southeast Asia's second-largest economy has lagged its regional peers due to high household debt but is expected to improve with an increase in tourists and a pick-up in public spending supported by the government's digital wallet scheme. A strong majority of economists, 24 of 28, in the Oct. 7-10 poll forecast the BOT to keep its benchmark one-day repurchase rate (THCBIR=ECI). https://www.reuters.com/markets/rates-bonds/bank-thailand-hold-rates-steady-oct-16-cut-q1-2025-2024-10-11/

From The Thaiger Thailand emerged victorious in its bid to join the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) with an impressive 177 votes—the highest of all candidates—securing a coveted three-year term to champion human rights across the globe. The decision was revealed yesterday, October 9, following a secret ballot by the UN. In a closely watched contest, Cyprus and Qatar each received 167 votes, followed by South Korea with 161, and the Marshall Islands with 120. However, Saudi Arabia’s campaign failed, gathering just 117 votes, the lowest among the six candidates for five available seats. Thailand’s successful bid comes at a critical time, as the nation seeks to boost its international reputation following the recent election of a new government. With a focus on promoting dialogue among UNHRC members and enhancing the capacity to protect rights and freedoms, Thailand’s campaign struck a chord with UN members. The UNHRC, established in 2006, is responsible for strengthening the protection of human rights worldwide. It consists of 47 member countries, divided into five regional groups. Alongside Thailand, Ethiopia and Qatar were among the 18 nations elected to serve three-year terms on the council. https://thethaiger.com/news/national/thailand-triumphs-in-un-human-rights-council-bid