Honda Maintains Strong In Thailand Despite Market Challenges

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9 February 2024, 11:46

honda presscon2 — Mr. Shigeto Kimura, president of Thai Honda Co., Ltd., described the Thai motorcycle market at the 'Thai Honda Meets Motoring Press 2024' event held on February 8, 2024 at the Renaissance Bangkok Ratchaprasong Hotel.

BANGKOK – Thai Honda dominates 2023 motorcycle sales after winning all segments, solidifying its leading position in the Thai motorcycle industry in 2023 with 1.47 million units. A.T. Group also sees growth, highlighting the resilience of the Thai motorcycle industry.

With an impressive 1.47 million units registered out of the total 1.88 million new motorcycle registrations in 2023, Honda demonstrates a growth rate of 6% compared to the previous year, maintaining its stronghold as the top contender for the 35th consecutive year. Furthermore, Honda secures its position among the top 5 in total registrations.

Mr. Shigeto Kimura, President of Thai Honda Co., Ltd., remarked at the press conference on February 8 that the overview of the Thai motorcycle market in 2023 indicates a favourable trend, evident in the registration of over 1.47 million new Honda vehicles. The A.T. vehicle segment, ranging between 110CC and 300CC, emerges as the most favored segment, commanding a market share of 49%, marking an increase from the previous year.

shigeto honda scaled — Mr. Shigeto Kimura

Additionally, the 5% growth observed in the fourth quarter signals a segment with continuous potential. The introduction of the New Honda Giorno+ model has resonated positively among the young custumers, contributing to the robust growth of motorcycles in the A.T. group over the past year.

In the family car category, Honda secures the second position with a 47% market share, while the sports car segment demonstrates a 3% growth.

The Honda Wave retains its status as one of Honda’s top-selling motorcycle models, maintaining its position since 2009. In 2023, the Honda Wave110i leads with 511,659 units, followed by the Honda Wave125i with 254,141 units.

The Honda Scoopy leads the AT car group with 218,113 units sold, while the Honda PCX160 and Honda Click Series follow closely with registrations of 146,212 units and 114,202 units, respectively. In the sports motorcycle category, the Honda CRF300L leads with sales of 7,840 units.

In the big bike category, comprising motorcycles with a size of 400cc and larger, a total of 15,468 units were registered in 2023, with Honda accounting for 7,035 units. Honda anticipates a stable outlook for the big bike market in 2024, with sales projected to remain around 7,000 units, consistent with the previous year’s figures.

Shadow over 2024 Motorcycle Market

Reflecting on the dynamics of the motorcycle market, Thai Honda observes a robust growth trend throughout 2023, with motorcycle sales surging to 1.88 million vehicles. This surge is attributed to the easing of Covid restrictions, which has spurred increased consumer spending. Consequently, demand for finance loans, including those for motorcycles and cars, has surged, propelling significant growth in the motorcycle market for 2023.

Mr. Wiwat Lertphati, Chief Executive Officer of the Sales and Marketing Division at Thai Honda Co., Ltd., anticipates a more subdued outlook for the motorcycle market in 2024 compared to the previous year. Honda projects the overall motorcycle market to range between 1.70 million to 1.75 million units, representing a decline of approximately 7% to 10% compared to 2023 sales figures.

Three primary factors underpin this cautious projection. Firstly, stringent lending regulations, particularly concerning hire purchase loans, enforced by the Bank of Thailand, are expected to curtail financing options. Secondly, the prevailing economic landscape, characterized by sluggish export performance and supply chain disruptions due to geopolitical tensions, is dampening overall motorcycle sales. Lastly, the persistently rising household debt poses a significant challenge, exerting downward pressure on consumer spending.

“Considering these factors, Thai Honda anticipates Honda motorcycle sales to hover around 1.30 million to 1.35 million units in the small car market, marking a decline from the previous year. However, in the Big-Bike segment, Honda expects sales to remain stable, mirroring the 7,000 units sold in the previous year,” stated Mr. Wiwat.

He attributes the resilience of big bike sales to the segment’s immunity to financing and interest rate fluctuations, as buyers typically possess substantial purchasing power.

“Motorcycles play a vital role as the fifth essential factor for many households, serving both daily transportation needs and livelihoods. The confluence of high interest rates, tightened finance, and escalating household debt in the 2024 market, coupled with lower sales figures, raises concerns about the accessibility of motorcycles, a quintessential aspect of Thai households.” Mr. Wiwat explained.

Given that approximately 70% of motorcycle purchases in Thailand are made through installments, Thai Honda remains committed to providing quality motorcycles at affordable prices to its customers, prioritizing their needs amidst challenging market conditions.

EV motorcycles still not the answer

Electric motorcycles have yet to emerge as the definitive solution in Thailand’s transportation landscape. Despite the burgeoning popularity of electric cars in the country, Honda notes that the adoption of electric motorcycles remains gradual. In 2023, sales of electric motorcycles surged to 21,800 units, marking a remarkable 221% increase from the previous year. Projections for 2024 indicate a continued upward trend, with anticipated sales ranging between 32,000 to 35,000 units.

However, significant challenges persist, particularly concerning infrastructure. Unlike electric cars, which predominantly rely on charging stations, electric motorcycles in Thailand predominantly utilize battery swapping systems. Furthermore, consumers perceive minimal disparity in fuel efficiency between electric and gasoline-powered motorcycles. Additionally, both electric motorcycles and cars face depreciating resale values, further deterring widespread adoption.

Thus, despite the evolving electric vehicle (EV) trend, Honda acknowledges that a complete transition to 100% electric motorcycles in Thailand remains impractical for drivers. Nevertheless, Honda reaffirms its commitment to aligning with the EV trend while recognizing the existing barriers to full-scale adoption

In his concluding remarks, Mr. Shigeto Kimura expressed heartfelt gratitude to Thai customers for their unwavering support throughout his five-year tenure as President of Thai Honda Co., Ltd. He announced his imminent departure in April, marking the conclusion of his service in Thailand as his transition back to Japan to assume administrative responsibilities.

Regarding inquiries about the evolving landscape of Japanese automotive companies in Thailand, particularly concerning the appointment of Thai executives, Mr. Kimura elucidated Honda’s flexible approach. He emphasized that Honda does not impose strict rules or restrictions dictating the nationality of executives.

While acknowledging the advantages of having Thai executives for clear user communication, Mr. Kimura underscored the importance of seamless coordination between Thailand and Japan. He highlighted that the timing and mutual understanding between executives in Japan and Thailand play pivotal roles in decision-making, indicating openness to considering senior executives of Thai nationality when circumstances align appropriately.

Honda’s profit rose on the back of strong U.S. demand

In Tokyo, the Associated Press reported that Honda’s profit rose 3.5% in the October-December quarter from a year earlier on the back of solid demand in the U.S. and Europe and a recovery in its home market, the company said Thursday.

Tokyo-based Honda Motor Co.’s profit in the last quarter was 253.3 billion yen, or $1.7 billion. Quarterly sales jumped 21% to 5.39 trillion yen ($36 billion).

A favorable exchange rate helped amplify Honda’s overseas profits in yen terms and is expected to continue through the rest of the fiscal year, which ends in March.

The dollar has been trading at about 148 Japanese yen, up from about 140 yen last year.

AP24009709439343 — The newly unveiled concept car, Honda Zero Series “Saloon” electric vehicle is displayed during a Honda news conference during the CES tech show Tuesday, Jan. 9, 2024, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/Ryan Sun)

All the automakers have been hurt by shortages of computer chips and other parts, partly due to disruptions in manufacturing because of the coronavirus pandemic. The latest results show Honda has mostly but not yet fully recovered to pre-pandemic levels in some locations.

Honda’s motorcycle sales grew in recent months in Brazil and Europe, according to the manufacturer of the Fit small car, Super Cub motorcycle and Asimo robot.

Honda said it remained committed to “initiatives toward electrification,” pointing to the global electric vehicle concept models shown at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, such as the Saloon and Space Hub.

Japanese automakers including Honda have lagged in the global push toward pure EVs, partly because of their strength in other green models such as hybrids and fuel cells.

Over the first nine months of the fiscal year, Honda sold 3.1 million vehicles, up from 2.7 million vehicles the previous year, with sales especially strong in the U.S.

A decline in Honda’s vehicle sales in Thailand and Indonesia was offset by rising sales in China.

Thailand Says Deliveries Of Humanitarian Aid To War-wracked Myanmar Are Expected To Start Soon

By

Associated Press

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9 February 2024, 01:27

MAE SOT, Thailand (AP) — Thailand expects to open up a humanitarian corridor in about a month to deliver aid to suffering civilians in war-torn Myanmar, Thai Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara said Thursday after inspecting the planned staging area in the northern Thai province of Tak.

Humanitarian AidThe plan, initiated by Thailand with the endorsement of Myanmar and other fellow members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, is relatively small in scale and initially would reach just a tiny proportion of the 2.6 million civilians the U.N. estimates are displaced throughout Myanmar.

Myanmar is wracked by a nationwide armed conflict that began after the army ousted the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi in February 2021 and suppressed widespread nonviolent protests that sought a return to democratic rule.

AP24039578559118 — Thailand’s Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara inspects a customs checkpoint near the border with Myanmar, in Mae Sot, Thailand on Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. (AP Photo/Jintamas Saksornchai)

Large areas of the country, especially frontier areas, are now contested or controlled by anti-military resistance forces, pro-democracy fighters allied with armed ethnic minority organizations that have been fighting for greater autonomy for decades.

Thai officials have said they expect about 20,000 displaced people will benefit from the plan in its initial stage. The Thai and Myanmar Red Cross societies would implement distribution, to be monitored by the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management.

Other details of the cross-border aid plan remain incomplete or unrevealed, but Parnpree described it at a news conference as a government-to-government deal, meaning activities on the Myanmar side of the border will be handled by that country’s ruling military council.

The ongoing hostilities, however, make unlikely any expansion of what is considered a pilot project, confined for now to a small area just across the river border from Thailand.

AP24039583168673 — A camp for internally displaced people in Myanmar as seen across the Moei river from Mae Sot in western Thailand on Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. (AP Photo/Jintamas Saksornchai)

“We have long been calling for a program of direct cross-border humanitarian assistance to the refugees and civilians truly in need of help,” said Nay Phone Latt, a spokesperson for Myanmar’s shadow National Unity Government, the leading political body of the anti-military resistance.

He rejected the Thai plan, however, urging that the aid instead go through the ethnic minority groups that control much of the border area, and charging that previous efforts to assist displaced person had been diverted to help the military.

Asst. Prof. Surachanee Sriyai, a visiting fellow at Singapore’s ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute, also doubts that Myanmar’s military government has the will or the competence to run a legitimate assistance program. Neither the Thai nor the Myanmar Red Cross is capable of dealing with delivering assistance in such complicated circumstances, she believes.

At his news conference in Mae Sot, in Tak province, Parnpree defended Thailand’s approach, saying, “If we don’t start with the government, eventually, if we start with other people, we will have to come back to start with the government anyway.

“We will not interfere with their internal affairs,” said Parnpree, declaring it was up to Myanmar to try to solve its own internal problems. “Our objective is to help in relation to humanitarian issues only.”

AP24039578740840 — Thailand’s Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara meets the media at a customs checkpoint near the border with Myanmar, in Mae Sot, Thailand on Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. (AP Photo/Jintamas Saksornchai)

In other forums he has acknowledged that the Thai initiative has deep roots in regional geopolitics. Speaking last month at the Diplomacy Dialogue on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Switzerland, he said that with no end in sight to Myanmar’s conflict, “The fear among the regional countries is Myanmar becoming increasingly fragmented and becoming an arena for major-power competition.”

As Myanmar’s eastern neighbor, Thailand especially fears an influx of refugees.

Parnpree said ASEAN needs to actively push to implement what it calls the Five-Points Consensus, which it agreed just a few months after the army’s 2021 takeover in Myanmar.

The agreement called for the immediate cessation of violence, a dialogue among all concerned parties, mediation by an ASEAN special envoy, provision of humanitarian aid through ASEAN channels, and a visit to Myanmar by the special envoy to meet all concerned parties.

Myanmar’s generals, despite initially assenting to the consensus, failed to act on it.

Parnpree told his Davos audience that while it was desirable to have Myanmar return to the path of democracy, it was meanwhile imperative to address its peoples’ humanitarian needs.

He said Thailand hopes its aid plan “will be the building block for constructive dialogue and engagement within Myanmar and between Myanmar and the international community as the process goes forward.”

An aid worker in Mae Sot who has been involved for about a decade in humanitarian activities involving displaced people in Myanmar’s Kayin state, where the project will be implemented, described what he knows so far about the plan as a good initiative but far too limited, given huge numbers of displaced people across Myanmar.

Speaking on condition of anonymity because he feared interference in his work from the authorities, he blamed Myanmar’s military for the humanitarian crisis and said they should not be involved at all in the assistance plan. He added that he believed Myanmar’s military authorities were incapable of carrying out such a program, charging that had failed to deliver assistance to people in need during the coronavirus pandemic.

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Jintamas Saksornchai and Jerry Harmer reported from Mae Sod. Associated Press writer Grant Peck in Bangkok contributed to this report.

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A Tourist Who Opened Airplane Door Is In Chiang Mai Custody

By

Khaosod English

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9 February 2024, 00:56

open door plane1 — Mr. Wong (green shirt) has been detained after he opened the emergency door of the plane, flight TG121, at the Chiang Mai airport on February 7, 2024.

CHIANG MAI – Police have detained a foreign tourist for unlocking an airplane door, disrupting 13 flights at Chiang Mai Airport. The results of the test revealed no drugs and no evidence of mental disorder.

On February 8, officials from Chiang Mai Province’s Phupingkhachanivet Police Station discussed the findings of an inquiry into a foreign visitor who caused a disturbance at Chiang Mai International Airport on February 7 at 9:00 p.m.

Mr. Wong, a 40-year-old Chinese-Canadian computer engineer, opened the emergency door of Thai Airways aircraft TG121 from Chiang Mai to Suvarnabhumi at the moment the jet was about to take off, making the evacuation slide unfold. The airplane was unable to fly and became stuck in the middle of the runway, disrupting other jets. There were 13 flights involved, with a total of 2,296 passengers affected at Chiang Mai Airport.

airplane — A passenger on the plane shared a photo of the incident.

According to the investigation, Wong arrived in Bangkok on February 3 and then went to Chiang Mai. and was set to travel back from Chiang Mai to Suvarnabhumi on the night of February 7.

Wong claimed he was afraid of the underground movement from Vietnam, which would destroy the plane. Therefore, he wanted to escape from the plane. Officials found some medicine with him, but the physical examination results that came out on the evening of February 8 did not find any drugs. The police have not found any evidence of his mental illness yet.

open door plane3 — Mr. Wong opened the emergency door, making the evacuation slide unfold.

Pol. Lt. Col. Nattawut Noison, deputy superintendent of the Phuping Police Station, said that law enforcement filed two serious charges:

(1) act in whatever manner, maintaining the aircraft in a way that may endanger individuals. (2) A person on board the aircraft during flight violates or fails to follow the directions of the aircraft commander or crew by opening the aircraft’s emergency door without an appropriate reason.

According to Pol. Lt. Col. Nattawut, officials continue to detain Wong, and new charges under the Aircraft Act may be filed.

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Chilean Ex-President Piñera Drowned After a Crash in a Helicopter He Was Piloting

By

Associated Press

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8 February 2024, 20:32

Chile Pinera Funeral — Honor guards carry the coffin that contain the remains of the late Chilean President Sebastian Pinera into the Congress building in Santiago, Chile, Wednesday, Feb. 7, 2024. The two-time former president died Feb. 6 in a helicopter crash. He was 74. (AP Photo/Matias Basualdo)

VIÑA DEL MAR, Chile (AP) — Chilean prosecutors on Wednesday released more details about the death of former President Sebastian Piñera, saying he drowned after the helicopter he was piloting crashed into a lake.

Piñera, 74, died on Tuesday after a flight over Lake Ranco, more than 560 miles (900 kilometers) south of Santiago. The crash remains under investigation, but bad weather conditions were reported in the area.

As more details of his death were released, tributes hailing him as a champion of democracy continued to pour in.

AP24038704718455 — The coffin of the former Chilean President Sebastian Pinera is carried by honor guards inside the Congress building in Santiago, Chile, Wednesday, Feb. 7, 2024. (AP Photo/Esteban Felix)

On Tuesday night, the former president’s body was taken to Valdivia for an autopsy. On Wednesday morning, Chilean President Gabriel Boric received Piñera’s body at Santiago airport, accompanied by his widow, Cecilia Morel, and other relatives.

The public can start paying their last respects to Piñera on Wednesday night, with a state funeral to be held on Friday.

Piñera was an experienced helicopter pilot, former Defense Minister Alberto Espina said Tuesday night, and was flying the aircraft in which three other people were also traveling. Of the four occupants, the other three passengers survived the crash.

The crash occurred shortly after takeoff in an area that Piñera knew well. The former president had a summer residence there, which he frequented for adventure sports.

AP24037697999676 — FILE – Sebastian Pinera, former Chilean president who is running again for office, addresses supporters at his closing campaign rally in Santiago, Chile, Nov. 16, 2017.(AP Photo/Luis Hidalgo, File)

After the news of his death on Tuesday, the political world reacted with messages of condolences, honoring the leader as a democratic beacon in a country once plagued by a military dictatorship. Thousands of Chileans paid tribute to him.

Piñera served two terms — from 2010 to 2014 and again from 2018 to 2022. Boric declared three days of national mourning. Piñera’s death came as Chile already was recovering from deadly wildfires in the county’s central region.

Piñera led Chile during moments of profound crisis, including a devastating earthquake and tsunami and during the coronavirus pandemic, in which Chile became one of the global leaders for vaccination.

AP24038586492801 — Cecilia Morel, the widow of former Chilean President Sebastian Pinera, center, is embraced by relatives while receiving the remains of her husband at the airport in Santiago, Chile, Wednesday, Feb. 7, 2024.. (AP Photo/Esteban Felix)

He was also president during the rescue of 33 miners trapped in a mine in the barren Atacama Desert for 69 days that captured the world’s attention.

Jimmy Sánchez, one of the rescued miners, said that it was a pleasure to meet Piñera.

“I am very grateful,” Sánchez said. “He gave us our lives back.”

But his legacy was marred by his government’s violent repression of protesters in 2019, in which his government stood accused of using disproportionate force against demonstrators and torturing detainees.

Piñera was the first person from the political right to lead the South American country since Chile’s return to democracy in 1990.

He entered politics representing the center-right, which was the civilian support of the military regime. However, when he served as an independent senator, he voted against the extension of dictator Augusto Pinochet (1973-1990).

AP24037829330849 — People lay flowers outside the home of late former President Sebastian Pinera after learning that he died in a helicopter crash, in Santiago, Chile, on Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024. (AP Photo/Matias Basualdo)

Thailand Sees Increase in Tourism Spend Over Chinese New Year

By

Khaosod English

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8 February 2024, 20:15

phuket airport chinese1 — Phuket Airport held the Chinese New Year 2024 Celebration with dragon dance and lion dance performances.

BANGKOK – Data from Trip.com Group, a global travel service provider, has revealed that Thailand will see an increase of 44.3% in total trip expenditure for inbound bookings when comparing this year’s Chinese New Year (CNY) festive period with the same period last year. The expenditure for outbound travellers is increasing by 70.8%.

Part of the reason for increased spending could be due to Southeast Asian tourists making longer-haul trips, with more travellers travelling beyond Southeast Asia (SEA) for the 2024 CNY period. Last year, 72% of CNY travel was intra-SEA, but this has gone down to just over half (50.2%), with the other half visiting destinations further afield.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, SEA countries which have public holidays for Chinese New Year (Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, Indonesia, Philippines, Brunei) are seeing more travel during the week of CNY than countries which do not have CNY public holidays (Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar).

In the week of CNY, countries with CNY public holidays make up 69.1% of all SEA bookings, versus 59% of all SEA bookings for the week before CNY.

Another two trends that cut across markets are the lengthening of booking windows, and the popularity of theme parks.

Travellers are now planning their trips further in advance, with the booking window for trips originating from Thailand more than quadrupling – from nine days to 40 days – this CNY compared to last year.

This was similar to Malaysia, where the booking window surged from 12 days to 51 days, with Singapore seeing an increase of two and a half times – from 18 days to 46 days.

Meanwhile, theme parks rule the roost for most popular attractions for tourists from Southeast Asia. Hong Kong Disneyland is the top choice for travellers from Thailand, Singapore and Malaysia, with Universal Studios Japan; Tokyo Disneyland; Universal Studios Singapore; and Warner Bros Studio Tour Tokyo – The Making of Harry Potter making up the rest of Thai travellers’ top five overseas attractions.

Ms Diane Cui, General Manager, Trip.com Thailand, said: “Last week, we collaborated with the Tourism Authority of Thailand to host a Super World Trip BOSS Live livestream session in Bangkok, which grossed THB100 million of GMV in a day. We are expecting the travel industry in Thailand to continue its healthy recovery this year, especially with the recent signing of the visa-free travel agreement between the Thai and Chinese governments, and look forward to welcoming more visitors from around the world to this beautiful country.”

British Man Caught Exchanging Bogus Euros in Phuket; Another Flees

By

Khaosod English

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8 February 2024, 19:35

PHUKET – Police in Phuket have arrested a British man who was exchanging counterfeit euros at bureaux de change in various places in the province, including the districts of Kathu, Thalang, Mueang and Sakoo. However, his accomplice has already fled the country.

On February 6, 2024, Ms. Janjira Laowlang, 50, reported to Sakoo Police Station that she had been scammed by a foreigner who exchanged 1,000 euros (five 200-euro bills) for 37,850 baht. She later discovered that the bills were counterfeit.

At 3:15 pm on February 7, police detained 33-year-old British citizen Tobias Drew and confiscated 89 counterfeit 200-euro bills (worth 682,585 baht), 272 20-pound bills, 54 10-pound bills, 198 1,000-baht bills, one 500-baht bill, and 5 100-baht bills.

fake euro3 — Police officers checked on the confiscated 89 counterfeit 200-euro bills on February 7, 2024.

Mr. Tobias confessed that he entered Thailand on December 2, 2023 and extended his stay until January 31, 2024. On February 1, he met Mr. Ozeias Da Silva, 46, also a British national, and they stayed together at MBC Condotel in Maikhao Subdistrict, Thalang District, Phuket.

Mr. Tobias said he transferred Mr. Ozeias 34,900 USDT (about 1.24 million baht) in cryptocurrency on February 5 and received about 200 200-euro bills (worth about 674,800 baht) in return. He used some of the money to exchange it for Thai baht with Ms. Janjira.

fake euro1 — The CCTV footage shows Tobias on February 5, the day he received about 200 200-euro bills from Ozeias Da Silva.

Police investigations revealed that Mr. Tobias exchanged 1,000 euros at a bureau de change in Kamala on February 7 at 3:00 pm and at another bureau de change in Kathu at 4:00 pm. Mr. Ozeias exchanged 3,000 euros (about 111,600 baht) at three different booths in Thalang.

After the incident, Mr. Ozeias Da Silva fled the country at 8:50 p.m. on February 7. Police are gathering evidence to track him down and prosecute him. Mr. Tobias was charged with using counterfeit money under Section 240 and forgery under Section 241 of the Thai Penal Code, which carries a penalty of 1-15 years in prison and a fine of 20,000-300,000 baht. Mr. Tobias has denied the charges.

Samui Airport Asks for More Flights as Chinese Tourists Increase

By

Khaosod English

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8 February 2024, 18:18

samui3 — Tourists arrive at Samui Airport on Feb. 7, 2024.

SAMUI – The tourism atmosphere on Koh Samui, Surat Thani Province, in February is filled with foreign tourists, both Europeans and Chinese tourists, continuously traveling to Koh Samui. Samui Airport is decorated with red lanterns to welcome the Chinese New Year.

Ratchaporn Poolsawadee, president of the Koh Samui Tourism Promotion Association, said on 7 February that in addition to European tourists visiting Samui this month for Chinese New Year, direct flights from Chengdu and Chongqing, China, will also be flown to Koh Samui.

More than 5,000-6,000 Chinese tourists are expected to visit Koh Samui this month, which is a good thing after a long period of no Chinese tourists. Ratchaporn believes that the government’s visa-free policy also has a positive effect.

samui2 — Currently, there are 50 flights a day to Koh Samui. Samui authorities have requested an increase to 73 flights per day in order to increase convenience for tourists.

Chinese tourists who come to Koh Samui are not the type to buy tours, but they come to relax and can travel on their own, similar to European tourists in general. This has dispersed revenue and allowed tourism businesses to recover and rebuild their business.

The overall picture of room reservations is quite dense. The hotels on the main beaches, such as Chaweng Beach and Lamai Beach, are almost fully booked. It is currently at 80-90 percent and Chinese tourists are still coming, so Koh Samui is expected to generate about 5 billion baht in tourism revenue during Chinese New Year, when European and Chinese tourists are expected.

samui1 — Samui Airport in Surat Thani Province has been decorated with red lanterns to celebrate the Chinese New Year.

Luecha Narkban, owner of Mit Samui restaurant, is another who sees the upsurge in Chinese tourists. He said his restaurant now sees more Chinese customers coming to eat, 3-4 groups a day, and each group consists of no less than 10 people. This is different from before when there were none. Chinese tourists order dishes that are quite expensive, such as stir-fried lobster with spices and crispy fried mantis shrimp. So we can clearly see how much money we are taking in.

Kanokkittika Kritwutthikorn, director of the TAT office on Koh Samui, informed that in 2023, 2,273,351 tourists traveled to Koh Samui by air, an increase of 66.65 percent from the previous year. In December, there were 207,096 passengers arriving and departing on 2,497 flights, an increase of 15.25 percent.

Jirawat Vuthiwatworakul, director of Samui Airport, said there will be 25 direct flights from Chengdu and Chongqing, China, to Samui Airport in February and March. Tourists traveling directly here want to visit the tourist attractions on Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao.

There are currently 50 flights a day to Koh Samui. Samui has requested an increase to 73 flights per day in order to increase convenience for tourists. This is to cope with the increasing number of passengers in the future. Technology will be used, such as an automatic check-in system and various information signs that can automatically change their messages. This will enable passengers to check in quickly.

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LIVING NETWORK Enhancing Life Beyond Communication by AIS

By

Contributor

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8 February 2024, 16:36

AIS reaffirms its goal to become a Cognitive Tech-Co, aiming to elevate the capabilities of Intelligence infrastructure and AI delivery to provide a superior digital experience for Thais. Marking a first in Thailand, AIS unveils the LIVING NETWORK, a network with life, for both mobile and broadband, empowering customers to control, choose, and design their usage according to their lifestyles.

This includes delivering speed network experiences through Smart Devices such as gaming phones from partner brands like ROG Phone 8 Series and RedMagic 9 Pro.

These devices, along with top smartphones from various renowned brands, come packed with exclusive promotions and discounts of up to 80% at the biggest mobile event in the country, “Thailand Mobile Expo 2024,” from February 8th to 11th, 2024, at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, AIS Booth, Hall 5, Entrance 1.

Saran Phaloprakarn Head of Mobile and Consumer Products AIS, stated, “Advancing towards becoming a provider of Cognitive Tech-Co is a crucial mission for AIS, where we aim to elevate intelligence and deliver added value to users through the AIS network limitlessly. Today, we are ready to introduce LIVING NETWORK, an innovative network with life for both mobile and home internet, for the first time in the industry, aiming for superior customer experiences in every dimension.”

The LIVING NETWORK service is developed based on understanding the usage needs of customers in different groups and time frames. For AIS 5G device customers can access the myAIS application and select the myNetwork, various functions such as 5G Mode are available, allowing customers to adjust usage modes and select packages according to their lifestyles.

Whether it’s BOOST Mode for high-speed 5G usage when using 5G in dense area, GAME Mode for stable network gaming, or LIVE Mode for seamless live streaming, continuous usage without interruption is made possible.

Additionally, the service includes intelligence on the broadband like Fibre Mode, where customers can adjust usage modes according to their needs. Features like Toggle Speed enable customers to adjust internet download/upload speeds, while Speed Boost allows customers to increase home internet speeds with On Demand supplementary packages.

Moreover, an Interactive Map provides real-time insights into mobile internet signal quality (Network Status) and notifies customers of any usage limitations, along with recommendations for utilizing mobile network internet and resolving, reporting, and tracking broadband issues conveniently through the Fix and Track Cases smart troubleshooting system.

Saran further added, “Beyond elevating both mobile and home network innovations, today, we also collaborate with global partners to bring network experiences directly to customers’ hands, such as showcasing top gaming phones that customers can use on the 5G network, including ROG Phone 8 Series and RedMagic 9 Pro, for firsthand experiences at Thailand Mobile Expo 2024, exclusively at the AIS booth.”

ROG Phone 8 Series: A new dimension of gaming on smartphones, powered by Snapdragon® 8 Gen 3 processors, redesigned heat dissipation systems, and a stunning 6.78-inch Samsung E6 AMOLED display with LTPO technology and a peak brightness of 2500 nits.
RedMagic 9 Pro: The latest generation of gaming smartphones, Red Magic 9 Pro , equipped with Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipsets, new heat dissipation systems, up to 16GB of RAM, and ultra-fast 80W charging , catering to every gaming scenario (coming soon).

For Thailand Mobile Expo 2024, AIS and its partners are preparing a special lineup of superior experiences for customers and Thais, including an innovative broadband product that allows transparent fiber optic cable inside the house, like Home FibreLAN, which is now available in 77 provinces nationwide.

In addition to this, top smartphones, lucky numbers, and special promotions of up to 80% off will also be available from February 8th to 10th, 2024, at the AIS Booth, Hall 5, Entrance 1, Queen Sirikit National Convention Center.

Chinese Tourist in Patong Reports Robbery but Then Calls It Dispute

By

Khaosod English

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8 February 2024, 15:27

PHUKET – On February 8, 2024 at 1:00 a.m., Patong Police Station received a report that a foreign tourist had been robbed by a motorcycle taxi driver in front of a hotel on Phra Metta Road, Patong Sub District, Kathu District, Phuket Province.

After receiving the report, patrol officers from Patong Police Station investigated and found that the foreign tourist had lost about 20,000 baht in cash. Investigators from Patong Police Station then questioned Mr. Xing Jingwei, a Chinese national, at the scene.

Upon questioning people who had witnessed the incident, it turned out that Mr. Xing had taken a motorcycle cab to the roadside near the hotel where the incident occurred. When he got there, he paid the motorcycle taxi driver before arguing with him.

The motorcycle taxi driver then drove away and the victim reached back and fell, injuring his elbow. Mr. Xing then went to the hotel and reported that he had been robbed.

patong notrob2 — The scene happened in front of a hotel on Phra Metta Road, Patong Sub District, Kathu District, Phuket Province.

Patong Police Station investigators later tracked down the motorcyclist, identified as Mr. Pan, 22, who was riding a red and black Honda Wave motorcycle with a Nakhon Si Thammarat license plate.

When questioned, Pan stated that he had picked up the tourist in Baan Mon and dropped him down at the spot. He and the tourist couldn’t agree on a fare because he couldn’t communicate with him, so they argued and he drove away. He did not take 20,000 baht in cash, as the visitor said.

At 7:00 a.m., the Patong Police Station investigators called Mr. Xing in for further questioning about the incident. He admitted that there was no pickpocketing or robbery and that he still had his 20,000 baht in cash.

A tourist claimed that he had distortedly reported after drinking alcohol and being frightened. The police then notified the Chinese consulate about his behaviour.

The PARQ Celebrates Chinese New Year 2024 with the ‘ENDLESS WEALTH’

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Contributor

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8 February 2024, 15:01

The PARQ Celebrates Chinese New Year 2024 with the ‘ENDLESS WEALTH’ concept and welcoming the Auspicious Year of the Dragon

Bangkok – The PARQ is set to welcome the Year of the Dragon through the Chinese NEW YEAR 2024 campaign with a range of activities designed to enhance well-being and prosperity in both mind and body, offering a complete experience of shopping, dining, leisure, and fortune-boosting under the concept “Endless Wealth”, reflects the abundance and richness that symbolize the beginning of the new year, as majestic as the dragon itself, reinforcing The PARQ’s position as the epicenter of a Life Well Balanced in the heart of the city.

To empower individuals throughout the year, The PARQ is hosting a Special Talk featuring the renowned astrologer ToktakA4, sharing insights into career paths, investment directions, money-making tips, and astrological secrets for each zodiac sign. Revealing the top four zodiac signs that are predicted to flourish in the Year 2024, ToktakA4 highlights the ‘Year of the Pig’ as the standout performer, particularly in financial and career aspects.

Following the ‘Year of the Tiger’ brings strength not only in personal influence but also in successful negotiations, especially with international connections.

Another outstanding zodiac sign for this year is the ‘Year of the Monkey’, guaranteeing support and opportunities from patrons. The ‘Year of the Snake’ invites individuals to prepare for advancement and growth in their positions.

Expect Business endeavors to flourish and be successful, and professional reputations will be further enhanced. The direction for investments and wealth creation is promising in the Golden Dragon Year including real estate, rental spaces, houses, and hotels are particularly intriguing businesses for consumers, or businesses catering to the tourism sector. And the auspicious colors for this year—red, gold, and black—will amplify commercial success.

“It is not merely about your zodiac sign; it is about cultivating positive thoughts and deeds. A kind heart is a blessing, and the Chinese New Year is an opportune time to believe in receiving positive outcomes. As we celebrate this festive occasion, I wish everyone a prosperous and joyous year ahead.” ToktakA4, the astrologer, emphasizes this sentiment.

Moreover, there are exciting activities to take part in with our honored astrologer, ToktakA4, offering personalized astrological consultations to five fortunate individuals and a chance for another five to be selected as recipients of auspicious blessings Vessavana. Only those who register and join the event on Thursday, February 1st, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

To elevate the festive experience, visitors can indulge in auspicious products, delectable food, refreshing beverages, and trendy lifestyle items available at marketplace. Spend a minimum of 500 Baht at any shops and restaurants in The PARQ Life from February 1st to February 9th, 2024, between 12:00 PM and 6:00 PM, to join a free astrological reading session.

Begin the new year with a selection of traditional Thai Chinese dishes offered at The PARQ’s leading restaurants:

Sanyod WOK: Indulge in a range of traditional Chinese dishes, such as fried Hokkien Rice Noodles with Roasted Duck, Stir-Fried Noodles with Shrimp Paste, Shrimp Wonton, and the auspicious Boiled Rice with Fish,

Kope Hya Tai Kee: Experience the rich flavors of this time-honored coffee shop, open for 68 years, featuring special Chinese New Year dishes like Baked Pork Rib with Rice, Chinese Steamed Rice Noodle Rolls, Green Curry Chicken with roti and Chinese Salted Black Olive Fried Rice.

Cheat Day by Modish: Enjoy trendy and healthier dishes at this all-day dining restaurant, offering two special Chinese New Year dishes – Sea Bass with Vegetables and Taiwanese Dumplings – designed to bring luck and prosperity.

MX Cakes & Bakery: Savor the legendary flavors of this Hong Kong-based bakery, established since 1960, with traditional delicacies such as Mx Original Egg Rolls, available at a special 20% discount when ordered online during the Chinese New Year 2024 celebrations.

Chongjaroen OSOD: The Lost Chinatown restaurant blends Thai-Chinese fusion cuisine with a touch of bar ambience, presenting special menus tailored for the festive season. Indulge in Vietnamese-style Pizza, Fried Lotus Roots, Pumpkin Fritters with Salted Egg Yolk, Eggplant French Fries, and Vietnamese-style Fried Spring Rolls.

The Coffee Club: A renowned all-day dining coffeehouse originating from Australia. Join us in commemorating this joyous festival with our exquisite Rice Sets, offering a variety of 3 side dishes to complement your choices, such as Stir-Fried Water Spinach, Stir-Fried Chinese Salted Black Olives, and our signature Spicy Salted Egg Yolk Salad. Alternatively, indulge in the richness of uniquely crafted Pork Congee, in The Coffee Club style.

To celebrate Chinese New Year with full of happiness, prosperity, and richness through our “ENDLESS WEALTH“, there is a selection of auspicious dishes, both savory and sweet, for you to savor. Accompanied by exclusive promotions from shops, restaurants and services. Join us in the CHINESE NEW YEAR 2024 celebration at The PARQ Life (MRT Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre, Exit 2) from February 1st to 9th, 2024.

For updates and more information on ‘Chinese New Year 2024,’ please visit

Facebook: The PARQ Instagram: @THEPARQBKK Website: www.theparq.com Tel. 02-080-5700
#CHINESENEWYEAR2024 #ThePARQ #LifeWellBalanced

For more information, please contact

Frasers Property Thailand

Kanokpong Amnart

Phone: 0-86979-1916

Email: [email protected]

Branded The Agency Sutadta Lertsanongboon Anchalee Chuakhamhod
Phone: 0-82941-6141 Phone: 0-99735-9614
Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

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