THAI NEWS

Facebook Thailand launches ‘Take It Down’ to combat sextortion

Meta has launched the "Take It Down" initiative in Thailand, aimed at empowering teenagers to combat sextortion by safeguarding their digital privacy. Collaborating with the National Centre for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC), the program now supports over 25 languages, extending its global reach to aid teens in controlling their online images. The initiative allows for the creation of a unique digital fingerprint of intimate images, enabling their removal across Meta's platforms without the need to share the actual content.

Highlighting the program's significance, Meta's APAC Safety Policy Manager, Malina Enlund, addressed the severe impacts of involuntary image sharing. The program is bolstered by law enforcement and partnerships with organizations like Thorn, to provide comprehensive support for affected teens, underscoring Meta's dedication to enhancing online safety and combating exploitation.

Monkey business: Disruptive macaques from Lop Buri removed

To address disturbances caused by macaques in Lop Buri, park officials have begun an operation to capture and remove the monkeys. Initiated on March 25, the effort involved setting cages around the city, specifically targeting Ratchadamnoen Road in the Mueang district, to capture at least 30 monkeys by the operation's end on Wednesday. The move comes after the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry's decision to compensate victims of monkey attacks, prompted by at least three significant incidents in Lop Buri this month. Instead of using sedative bullets, which allowed monkeys a chance to flee or endanger residents by climbing buildings, the team opted for trapping, as stated by the Khao Sompoj non-hunting area chief, Krirkwit Phuphayak.

Visa-free travel sparks surge in Thai-Chinese tourism expectations

The introduction of visa-free travel between Thailand and China from March 1 has significantly boosted tourism prospects, with expectations for a substantial increase in tourist exchanges by the end of 2024. According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) offices in Beijing, Shanghai, Kunming, Chengdu, and Guangzhou, the number of Thai tourists to China could double, while Chinese tourist visits to Thailand are expected to triple compared to 2019 levels. This policy change is anticipated to rejuvenate Thailand's tourism sector, heavily impacted by the global health crisis, especially considering Chinese travelers constitute the largest visitor group to the country.

Thailand house of representatives approves same-sex marriage bill

Thailand's House of Representatives has passed a same-sex marriage bill, marking a significant step towards marriage equality. Garnering substantial support, 400 of the 415 members present voted in favor, with only 10 opposing. The bill, championed across major political parties, aims to diminish societal disparities and foster equality, granting same-sex couples the same legal rights and benefits as heterosexual couples, including in areas like medical treatment, tax deductions, and inheritance. The bill now moves to the Senate for further deliberation, with final approval expected before the new Senate term. Once enacted, Thailand will join Taiwan and Nepal in legalizing same-sex unions in Asia, reinforcing its status as a progressive society on LGBTQ+ issues amidst its traditional values. This legislation, over a decade in the making, comes after the Constitutional Court's recommendation to extend rights to all genders.

Bangkok scoops best city prize in travel magazine survey

Bangkok was named the best city in the Asia-Pacific by DestinAsian magazine's Readers' Choice Awards, with Suvarnabhumi International Airport ranking as the second-best airport among 51 countries. This recognition highlights Thailand's appeal in several categories, including the best islands, hotels, and airlines. Phuket and Koh Samui were noted among the best islands, while Thai Airways and Bangkok Airways received accolades in the airlines category. The Prime Minister's Office highlighted these achievements as evidence of Thailand's continued popularity with international tourists, reinforcing the government's commitment to maintaining the country's status as a top tourism destination in the region.

THAI EVENTS

Songkran Festival 2024

• 1st to the 21st of April

The "Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2024," celebrating the Thai New Year, has been extended to 21 days to mark UNESCO's recognition of Songkran as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This extended festival aims to promote Thailand as a top festival destination, featuring traditional and unique activities across the kingdom, especially in Bangkok. The celebration will include Songkran parades in 16 provinces and cultural performances, aiming to showcase the diversity of Thai traditions and attract visitors worldwide.

THAILAND UNFILTERED

Koh Kood Island

Koh Kood, located in Thailand's Trat Province near the Cambodian border, is celebrated for its serene beauty, making it a prime choice for those seeking a tranquil island getaway. Known for its clear blue waters, white sandy beaches, lush jungles, and waterfalls, Koh Kood offers a variety of activities like beach bumming, scuba diving, kayaking, and exploring its waterfalls. Despite its size as Thailand's sixth largest island, it remains sparsely populated, preserving its peaceful charm. With its recent development, including paved roads and ATMs, Koh Kood caters to both adventure-seekers and those looking to unwind in seclusion.

Stay tuned for our next newsletter, where we'll dive deeper into the enchanting Koh Kood Island!