Finance Ministry considers incentives for Thais who spend on local tourism

13 Sept 12:29 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Finance Ministry plans to introduce an incentive scheme, possibly in July, to encourage domestic travel and spending by offering Thais 3,000 baht in coupons or cash.
The initiative requires hotels and food businesses to participate by offering special discounts on room rates and food prices to complement the government's support.
Phuket has reopened all its beaches after a two-month closure, with officials implementing social distancing guidelines and contact tracing for operators and customers.
Despite the reopening of public spaces, many souvenir shops in popular tourist areas like Laem Promthep remain closed due to the continued absence of foreign tourists.
Phuket has reported no new COVID-19 infections for the past 16 days, indicating an improving health situation on the island.

Six injured after car smashes into On Nut shopping mall

Today 22:44 Key points summarised by AI

A 67-year-old woman drove her car through the glass frontage of a Bangkok shopping mall, injuring six people, including a six-year-old girl.
The driver claimed she accidentally pressed the accelerator instead of the brake after being startled, causing the vehicle to surge forward.
She apologized to the victims, promising insurance coverage and additional financial aid, while police continue to gather statements before filing charges.