Top National Thailand Stories From the Past Week: Cannabis Reclassification, and More

PHOTO: Prasitthichai Nunual

Here is a look at the top NATIONAL Thailand stories, chosen by our Pattaya News/TPN National team, from last week, Monday, July 8th, to Sunday, July 14th, 2024.

They are not in any particular level of importance but are listed in the order of date of publication.

Let’s get started and see what the top stories were!

1. Thai Public Health Minister Addresses Cannabis Reclassification Amid Public Protest.
Thai Public Health Minister addressed the controversy over reclassifying cannabis as a type 5 narcotic. The review by the Narcotics Control Board is expected by the end of the month.

2. Bangkok Drunk Driving Victims Network Opposes Repeal of Train Alcohol Ban.
Bangkok Drunk Driving Victims Network petitioned against lifting the alcohol ban on trains and at train stations. They demand prioritizing passenger safety over promoting alcohol sales.

3. Rapid Response Units Deployed in Betong Following Insurgent Threats in Yala.
Yala enhances security measures following KOMPI insurgent activity, with rapid response units, checkpoints, and patrols to ensure the safety of residents and tourists.

4. Thai Interior Ministry Announces Updated Visa Measures to Boost Tourism and Economy, Effective on July 15th, 2024.
Thailand modernizes visa measures to attract tourists and boost the economy. Key updates include visa exemptions, expanded Visa on Arrival, the new Destination Thailand Visa, and post-graduate stay extensions. Note: As of press time this change is NOT yet official and waiting for final confirmation from the Prime Minister.

5. Thailand’s ERC Announces Significant Electricity Price Hike from September to December.
The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) of Thailand announces higher electricity prices from September to December due to rising fuel costs, impacting households and businesses. Residents express concerns over increased financial strain amidst economic challenges.

That’s all for this week, be safe!

The original version of this article appeared on our sister website, The TPN National News, owned by our parent company TPN media.

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Goongnang Suksawat
Goong Nang is a News Translator who has worked professionally for multiple news organizations in Thailand for many years and has worked with The Pattaya News for five years. Specializes primarily in local news for Phuket, Pattaya, and also some national news, with emphasis on translation between Thai to English and working as an intermediary between reporters and English-speaking writers. Originally from Nakhon Si Thammarat, but lives in Phuket and Krabi except when commuting between the three.