THAI NEWS

Chinese woman reunites with Thai rescuers after surviving cliff fall

Wang Nan, a 37-year-old Chinese woman, had an emotional reunion with the four national park officials who saved her after a tragic incident in 2019 at Pha Taem National Park in Thailand. Wang was pushed off a cliff by her husband, falling 34 meters, but survived thanks to trees that cushioned her fall. Despite severe injuries and losing her unborn baby, Wang expressed deep gratitude to her rescuers during the reunion. The attack by her husband was reportedly motivated by a financial dispute over his gambling debts. He was later sentenced to over 33 years in prison. The reunion was heartfelt but tinged with sadness due to the loss of her child.

Indian coffee trader busted with 10 anacondas on Bangkok flight

Customs officials at Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru intercepted a 56-year-old coffee trader from Sakleshpur, India, who had arrived from Bangkok on Thai Air Asia Flight No. FD-137 with a suitcase containing 10 baby yellow anacondas. The incident occurred on Saturday night, leading to an investigation into the illegal trade of exotic reptiles. The trader was reportedly lured by the promise of quick money and offered 20,000 Rupees (approximately 8,900 baht) for the delivery at the airport. This case highlights Bangkok's role as a major hub for wildlife trafficking. The trader now faces serious charges under the Customs Act 1962 and the Wildlife Protection Act 1972 for importing prohibited exotic animals.

Free online therapy for Bangkok’s teenagers launched by DMH

On April 24, 2024, the Department of Mental Health (DMH) launched the Wall of Sharing for Teens campaign in Bangkok, providing free online therapy sessions for teenagers through a collaboration with the Wall of Sharing Foundation, NHSO’s Bangkok division, and the Ooca platform. Data showed that over 60% of teenagers assessed were at risk of depression, with 43.65% at suicide risk, underscoring the need for accessible mental health services. The campaign offers teens aged 15-25 therapy options with professionals via the Ooca app, supported financially by the NHSO Bangkok Division. Dr. Kanpassorn Suriyasaengpetch emphasized this as the foundation's inaugural effort to promote quality telemedicine in mental health.

Bangkok and Chiang Mai are among the top Asian cities for expats in 2024

A recent study by an online language-learning marketplace ranked Bangkok and Chiang Mai among the top 10 Asian cities for expats in 2024. Bangkok, in second place, was highlighted for its high rate of return for expats, dramatic cost of living reductions, vibrant culture, and diverse opportunities. The cost in Bangkok has decreased by over 50%, from $2,715 per month in 2022 to $1,048 in 2024. Chiang Mai, ranked fifth, is noted for its serene environment, digital nomad community, and affordable living, making it an attractive destination for those relocating to Thailand.

Health Ministry greenlights medical opium and magic mushrooms

The Public Health Ministry of Thailand has authorized the use of opium and magic mushrooms, known for their hallucinogenic effects, for medical and research purposes. This decision, announced in a directive published in the Royal Gazette and effective from today, represents a significant shift in the country's drug policy. The directive, signed by Public Health Minister Cholnan Srikaew, reclassifies these substances as Category 5 narcotics, differentiating them from marijuana and hemp extracts. This move follows the earlier delisting of kratom, marijuana, and hemp from Category 5, while maintaining restrictions on marijuana and hemp extracts containing more than 0.2% THC. This policy change allows medical and research uses of these drugs, excluding certain marijuana and hemp extracts.

THAI EVENTS

Jewellery & Gems ASEAN Bangkok 2024

• 01 May - 04 May 2024

• Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC) , Bangkok

New B2B jewellery fair for the fast-growing ASEAN market. Informa Markets Jewellery, the world's biggest jewellery fair organiser and the engine driving the industry's No. 1 B2B jewellery marketplace - Jewellery & Gem WORLD Hong Kong, is bringing its industry-leading in-person product sourcing experience to Thailand with the launch of Jewellery & Gem ASEAN Bangkok (JGAB) in 2023.

The fair is poised to bring jewellery buyers and suppliers together in the most important ruby and sapphire trading centre in the world and one of the sector's leading coloured gemstone and jewellery manufacturing hubs.

THAILAND UNFILTERED

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai, tucked away in the northern part of Thailand, is the perfect mix of old-school charm and modern comforts, making it a top spot to visit. Famous for its calming temples, lively markets, and stunning mountains, Chiang Mai is also a hotspot for digital nomads, thanks to its great internet and affordable living. Whether you're into thrilling adventures or soaking up culture, Chiang Mai has got something for everyone.

Keep an eye on our next newsletter where we're going to dive deeper into Chiang Mai, discovering hidden places and local secrets that make this city so magical.