Tourism operators are urging the new tourism minister to give cash coupons to foreign visitors to spend in Thailand, similar to practices in other countries, and plan ahead for next year’s low season immediately.

The potential reintroduction of the “Khon La Khrueng” co-payment scheme is expected to support Thai businesses amid the current sluggish economy, while an academic believes the scheme could boost GDP growth to 2-2.5% this year.

Cannabis advocates in Thailand are calling on the new government to deliver legislation that protects users, businesses, non-users and minors, following concerns that recent regulatory changes have created monopolistic industry conditions.

Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra returned to Bangkok when his private jet landed at Don Mueang airport on Monday afternoon, the day before the Supreme Court’s ruling on his prolonged hospital stay instead of serving prison time.

Thai and Cambodian security authorities were meeting on Monday to discuss issues including border incursions and the elimination of landmines ahead of a key meeting between the two defence ministers in Cambodia on Wednesday.

A Bombardier Global 7500 jet like the private airplane used by former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra was seen arriving in Singapore on Monday morning after departing from Dubai Sunday night, according to media reports.