What are the implications of the new Personal Protection Data Privacy Act in Thailand for expats?

The new Personal Protection Data Privacy Act in Thailand has sparked confusion and concern among expats regarding its implications, particularly in relation to taking photographs in public. Initial reports indicated that taking pictures of individuals without their consent, including public officials, could be restricted. This has led to an outcry for clarification, especially concerning the rights to document government actions. Comments from the community suggest the law resembles Europe's GDPR, primarily affecting companies rather than individuals, but many still fear its potential consequences on everyday activities such as photography. There is an ongoing debate about the practicality and enforcement of the law, with some questioning its alignment with freedoms of expression and evidence in cases of misconduct.