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Thailand maintained its position as the tenth most powerful and influential country in the Asia-Pacific region, according to the Asia Power Index 2024 released by the Lowy Institute. Scoring 19.8 points, Thailand gained 1.1 points from last year but remains in the same ranking as in 2023. The Lowy Institute praised Thailand for its cultural influence and economic relationships, where it ranks seventh, highlighting its successful integration with other Asia-Pacific countries through economic activities and people exchanges. Additionally, Thailand was commended for its foreign relations policies. The country, however, scored poorly in the future resources category due to its ageing population and the projected impact on its future demographics. Thailand’s lowest ranking (16th) in this category reflects a less favourable demographic outlook by 2050, as noted by the institute. Singapore emerged as the most powerful member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, ranking eighth, with Indonesia following closely behind. Malaysia was ranked just below Thailand, with Vietnam in twelfth place. The United States retained its top spot on the index, scoring 81.7 points, closely followed by China with 72.7 points. Japan, which had consistently held the third position since the index’s inception in 2018, slipped to fourth place, overtaken by India, which rose due to its fast-growing economy. The Asia Power Index evaluates the comprehensive power of 27 countries and territories in the region, and uses a weighted average across eight measures, including military capability, economic resources, diplomatic influence, and cultural influence, calculated by 131 indicators. Japan’s slip to fourth place was attributed to its prolonged economic stagnation. The country lost 1.4 points in economic capability and 4.2 points in economic relationships. The report indicated that Japan’s technological advantage has eroded sharply due to competition with South Korea, China, and Taiwan, leading to a redirection of foreign investment away from Japan’s technology sector and contributing to declining productivity. India, on the other hand, gained 8.2 points in future resources. The report highlighted that India’s youthful population could deliver a demographic dividend over the coming decades, referring to economic growth resulting from a growing working population outpacing the overall population growth, reported Bangkok Post. By Ryan Turner Image: HelpAge Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-14

Woman Arrested in Thailand for Fake Mall Shooting Threats File photo for reference only In Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, a 31-year-old woman was arrested for fabricating shooting threats aimed at local malls through a series of Facebook posts. The suspect, known as Bang-on, was detained yesterday at her home in Pak Thong Chai district. The hoax exploited past traumas in the community, leading to heightened fears and increased security measures at the locations mentioned. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340615-police-locate-suspect-behind-hoax-threats-to-korat-shopping-malls/?do=findComment&comment=19304142

Woman Arrested in Thailand for Fake Mall Shooting Threats In Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, a 31-year-old woman was arrested for fabricating shooting threats aimed at local malls through a series of Facebook posts. The suspect, known as Bang-on, was detained yesterday at her home in Pak Thong Chai district. The hoax exploited past traumas in the community, leading to heightened fears and increased security measures at the locations mentioned. The Nakhon Ratchasima police chief, Police Major General Narongrit Dansuwan, reported that Bang-on, who had a criminal history involving theft and firearms offences, managed multiple Facebook accounts to carry out the hoax. According to police, she posed as a young man, posting menacing messages with images of a boy and weapons. During interrogation, Bang-on confessed that her actions stemmed from stress due to unemployment and personal conflicts with her husband's family. However, authorities confirmed she had no recorded mental health issues. The alarming threats prompted police to bolster their presence at the threatened malls, recalling the dark memories of a 2020 incident in the city that claimed 30 lives. This recent ordeal underscores the community's heightened sensitivity to such threats. The suspect is set to be handed over to public prosecutors for legal proceedings tomorrow. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-14

Ex-Officer Nabbed for Stealing 10 Million Baht File photo for reference only A former special operations officer of the Department of Corrections, accused of stealing 10 million baht from state funds, has been arrested. The 36-year-old suspect, Pornchai Paripreecha, was caught in a barbecue diner in Nong Khai, reportedly waiting for his wife to bring him money. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340663-ex-officer-nabbed-for-stealing-10-million-baht/

A former special operations officer of the Department of Corrections, accused of stealing 10 million baht from state funds, has been arrested. The 36-year-old suspect, Pornchai Paripreecha, was caught in a barbecue diner in Nong Khai, reportedly waiting for his wife to bring him money. Police Major General Montree Teskhan, Chief of Crime Suppression Division (CSD), led the team that arrested Pornchai, who was once a financial officer at Khao Prik Agricultural and Industrial Correctional Institution. The arrest warrant was issued by Si Khio Provincial Court on August 19, 2024. Inquiries disclose that Pornchai, formerly holding a high post responsible for the monthly budget and cash allocations for the prison, embezzled money for personal use. He allegedly began his illegal activities in mid-2023 and by July 2024, had swindled over 10 million baht. Before absconding, Pornchai reportedly broke into the prison warden’s office, stealing and destroying financial documents. Further investigations reveal he controlled more than ten bank accounts and frequently changed his mobile number to avoid getting caught. He hid near the border in Mukdahan Province and changed his name to get a passport to cross into Laos. But as police closed in, he tried to flee to Nong Khai, planning to cross over into Laos once more. In collaboration with Nong Khai City Police, the CSD arrested Pornchai at a local market. Despite being captured, Pornchai denied all allegations and withheld information. Police discovered he had multiple wives to whom he'd transferred the majority of the stolen money. He was transferred to Klong Phai Police Station for prosecution on charges of stealing government funds, nighttime theft with damage to barriers, theft in a government facility, and unauthorized access to computer data with security measures. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-14

Short changed: Bolt rider stunned by unexpected 2 baht fare Image courtesy of the Bolt Rider, Ruslän Fäteehah A Bolt rider received a surprising fare of only 2 baht from a customer, leaving both parties bewildered. The incident occurred recently when a Facebook user shared their experience in the Facebook group Bolt Drivers Thailand. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340662-short-changed-bolt-rider-stunned-by-unexpected-2-baht-fare/

A Bolt rider received a surprising fare of only 2 baht from a customer, leaving both parties bewildered. The incident occurred recently when a Facebook user shared their experience in the Facebook group Bolt Drivers Thailand. The post revealed that the fare displayed on the app was indeed 2 baht, causing the rider to feel awkward when asked about the fare. The rider shared in his post that he accepted the fare to not upset his customer. “After completing the ride, the customer asked how much it was. I didn’t know how to respond, feeling quite embarrassed. So, I pointed to the fare displayed on the phone. The customer was willing to pay, and I accepted. I didn’t want to refuse and upset them. #RiderLife #DriversExploitedByCompanyForever!” The post included screenshots showing the fare of 2 baht, with an additional note from Bolt indicating that the company would compensate the rider with an extra 50 baht, bringing the total fare to 52 baht. Another image showed the payment of two baht made by the customer. The post quickly garnered numerous comments. Many expressed sympathy for the rider’s situation, highlighting the challenges faced by drivers with such low fares. However, some argued that since the company compensated the rider, they were not actually losing out, as they still received the total fare. The situation sheds light on the ongoing debate about the fairness of compensation for ride-hailing drivers. While some customers benefit from promotional fares, drivers often find themselves caught in a system where their earnings might not reflect the effort and costs involved in providing the service. By Ryan Turner Image courtesy of the Bolt Rider, Ruslän Fäteehah Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-14

Pheu Thai confident on referendum despite double-majority dispute Image: ASEAN Skyline/Facebook The Pheu Thai Party remains optimistic that the referendum on constitutional amendments will proceed early next year, despite disagreements regarding the double-majority requirement in the referendum bill. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340661-pheu-thai-confident-on-referendum-despite-double-majority-dispute/

The Pheu Thai Party remains optimistic that the referendum on constitutional amendments will proceed early next year, despite disagreements regarding the double-majority requirement in the referendum bill. Sorawong Thienthong, Pheu Thai Party Secretary-General, reaffirmed the party’s commitment to holding the referendum in early 2025. The initial step involves ensuring that the amended bill successfully passes through Parliament in the coming months. The initiative to amend the constitution faces a significant challenge, as the Senate attempts to reintroduce a stricter requirement for referendum approval known as the double majority rule. This rule mandates that for the referendum result to be valid, at least half of all eligible voters must participate, and the winning decision must be supported by at least half of those who vote. However, the House of Representatives decisively voted 348 to zero against the Senate’s proposal to reinstate the double majority rule. Following this decision, a joint House-Senate committee will be established to reconcile the differences. Sorawong expressed hope that the committee could reach a consensus within the next few weeks, ensuring the planned timeline remains unaffected. When questioned about the potential use of the current version of the law for the referendum if the committee fails to reach a timely agreement, Sorawong deferred to the party’s legal expert, Chusak Sirinil, who maintains that a simple majority is sufficient for passing constitutional amendments. Doubts arise Despite Pheu Thai’s confidence, Nikorn Chamnong, secretary of the House panel on the referendum bill, expressed doubt that the referendum would take place in February as initially scheduled. He cited the Senate’s delay in submitting the names of its joint committee members and the impending Parliamentary recess on October 30 as contributing factors. The joint committee is set to convene from October 16 to 23 to review the bill and determine the size of the majority needed for passing a referendum on the charter. Should an agreement be reached by October 28 and both chambers endorse it by October 30, the bill would then be forwarded to the prime minister for royal approval. Nikorn mentioned a proposal suggesting two requirements for a charter referendum to pass: one-third of eligible voters must participate, and at least half of those who vote must support the outcome. According to this proposal, approximately 18 million voters would need to back the constitutional amendment, a number Nikorn believes to be sufficient. As the Parliamentary timeline unfolds, the Pheu Thai Party remains focused on navigating these legislative hurdles to achieve its goal of constitutional reform, reported Bangkok Post. By Ryan Turner Image: ASEAN Skyline/Facebook Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-14

Thai worker killed by leftover ammunition in Israeli orchard Image: NPR The explosion in northern Israel that claimed the life of 42 year old Thai worker Nisan Meerum, prompted the Ministry of Labour to extend its condolences and seek answers from the Population and Immigration Authority (PIBA) regarding the deployment of Thai labourers in a closed military zone. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340660-thai-worker-killed-by-leftover-ammunition-in-israeli-orchard/

The explosion in northern Israel that claimed the life of 42 year old Thai worker Nisan Meerum, prompted the Ministry of Labour to extend its condolences and seek answers from the Population and Immigration Authority (PIBA) regarding the deployment of Thai labourers in a closed military zone. Israeli government officials and the Royal Thai Embassy in Tel Aviv reported the death of Nisan, a native of Buriram province, on Saturday, October 12. The explosion that occurred while he was working in an apple orchard, involved leftover ammunition. Labour Ministry permanent secretary Bunsong Tapchaiyut stated that Thai officials are currently awaiting confirmation of Nisan’s identity from Israeli officials before repatriating his body for religious rites in Thailand. The government has assured that Nisan’s family will receive all entitled benefits. Minister of Labour Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn expressed deep condolences to the families affected by the incident. He mentioned that the ministry is working to verify with PIBA whether the accident site was indeed in a closed military zone and the reasons Thai workers were permitted to enter. Additionally, the ministry is also waiting for a detailed report from the Israeli government on the incident. Nisan’s wife, 43 year old Phrueksa Meeram recounted that her husband first went to work in Israel in December 2020. He returned in October last year following the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas conflict. However, about seven months later, his Israeli employer requested he return to complete his five-year and three-month employment contract. Despite family opposition due to safety concerns, Nisan returned to Israel in June, driven by financial pressures. Phrueksa mentioned that she communicated with her husband daily out of concern for his safety. Her last call to him was at 10am on Friday local time. Subsequent messages went unanswered until a co-worker informed her of his death. Explosion casualty The Thai embassy in Tel Aviv later confirmed that a bomb in the apple orchard had exploded on Saturday morning. Bangkok Post revealed that a Thai colleague shared that he was part of a group of 24 Thai workers in the orchard at the time of the explosion. The colleague recounted that four rows of workers were picking apples, with Nisan in the second row. Upon hearing the explosion, the workers ducked for cover until another worker shouted that Nisan had been killed. Soldiers arrived to remove Nisan’s body and none of the other Thai workers saw him again. The Israeli Defence Forces declared five new closed military zones in northern Israel near the Lebanon border on Saturday. These zones include Zarit, Shomera, Shtula, Netuya, Even Menachem, Rosh Hanikra, Shlomi, Hanita, Adamit, Arab al-Aramshe, Metula, Misgav Am, Kfar Giladi, Dovev, Tziv’on, and Malkia. By Ryan Turner Image: NPR Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-14

Thai Baht weakens as government pushes for lower rates File photo for reference only The Thai baht has started to lose value this month, leading to speculation that its recent rally could be losing momentum. This comes as conflict increases between Thailand's government and its central bank. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340658-thai-baht-weakens-as-government-pushes-for-lower-rates/

The Thai baht has started to lose value this month, leading to speculation that its recent rally could be losing momentum. This comes as conflict increases between Thailand's government and its central bank. In October, the Baht weakened 2.7% against the US dollar. This came after it had its best quarter since the Asian Financial Crisis. Mizuho Bank predicts that by the end of the year, the baht could slide to 33.6 per dollar. Increased pressure from upcoming Bank of Thailand and Federal Reserve policy meets might negatively influence the Baht. By Friday, the currency had dropped to 33.2. Thailand's government is planning to increase the inflation target next year. This could give them more leverage in their push for lower borrowing costs. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has been publicly urging the Bank of Thailand (BoT) to reduce rates to stimulate growth. This has been making investors nervous, causing the baht to depreciate further. Despite this pressure, the central bank is expected to keep its rate at 2.5% this week, resisting requests to ease and insisting on making its own decisions free from government interference. Investors have sold a total of $1.178 billion from Thailand's stock and bond market this month. This move by the government for a higher inflation target of 1.5%-3.5% for 2025 has led to a negative shift in sentiment towards the currency. As the local tourism season approaches its peak months, pressure on the baht could begin easing. Local stimulus measures, like cash handouts, expected to boost economic growth, limit the harm of a slower pace in Federal Reserve rate cuts. Lloyd Chan, a currency strategist at Mufg Bank, anticipates the baht to reach 32.5 per dollar by the end of 2024. However, market concerns remain over the potential erosion of the independence of Thailand's central bank due to government interference. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-14

Thai and Cambodian press warn of escalating tensions following Miss Grand scandal Photo: Thai PBS World The Thai and Cambodian journalists' associations have issued a joint statement expressing their deep concern over Miss Grand International’s cancellation of Miss Grand Cambodia as co-host of the beauty contest. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340464-thai-and-cambodian-press-warn-of-escalating-tensions-following-miss-grand-scandal/

The Thai and Cambodian journalists' associations have issued a joint statement expressing their deep concern over Miss Grand International’s cancellation of Miss Grand Cambodia as co-host of the beauty contest. MGI has moved the entire schedule to Bangkok despite an agreement for Cambodia to host half of the program. The Thai Journalists Association (TJA) and the Club of Cambodian Journalists (CCJ) noted that media outlets in both countries, particularly on social media, reported on the incident on October 8, causing the news to go viral. Photo: Thai PBS World Full story: Thai PBS World -- 2024-10-11

Thai national killed in missile attack on Kibbutz in Israel Photo: Thai PBS World A Thai national has died and another is suffering from severe psychological trauma as a result of an anti-tank missile attack on a Kibbutz near Israel’s border with Lebanon. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340463-thai-national-killed-in-missile-attack-on-kibbutz-in-israel/

A Thai national has died and another is suffering from severe psychological trauma as a result of an anti-tank missile attack on a Kibbutz near Israel’s border with Lebanon. The Kibbutz Yir’on is in one of the closed military zones in Israel. The Thai Embassy in Israel has instructed Thai citizens in closed military zones or other dangerous areas to contact the embassy if they need assistance to evacuate. Photo: Thai PBS World Full story: Thai PBS World -- 2024-10-11

Tourist trap: Russian national caught peddling illegal tours in Phuket Photo courtesy of Phuket News Police in Phuket are investigating a Russian national accused of illegally selling tours to tourists at a kiosk in Karon. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340295-foreign-tour-operators-flood-phuket-taking-jobs-from-locals/?do=findComment&comment=19298725

Tourist trap: Russian national caught peddling illegal tours in Phuket Police in Phuket are investigating a Russian national accused of illegally selling tours to tourists at a kiosk in Karon. A 23-second video posted online sparked outrage, with netizens criticising foreigners for allegedly taking jobs from Thai citizens. “The tour sales profession has been taken away by foreigners. Please ask the page to tell the relevant agencies to help investigate. There are a lot of them in Kata and Karon!” Tourist Police, led by Lieutenant Colonel Ekkachai Siri, visited the kiosk on Patak Road near Wat Karon yesterday, October 10. Officers from Karon Police and the Tourism and Guide Business Registration Office Southern Region 2 joined the visit. The Russian man, identified by police as Bordan, was questioned at the scene. Phuket Tourist Police confirmed that Bordan holds a valid work permit issued by the Phuket Provincial Employment Office on April 2. This permit allows him to work for Thai Dream Co Ltd as a manager and coordinator for foreign customers in the tourism business. Officers verified that Thai Dream Co Ltd is legally registered and possesses a tourism business licence. At the time of the inspection, Nusayati, a 20 year old Thai national, was working as a salesperson at the kiosk, according to Phuket Tourist Police. “All relevant individuals were asked to come to Karon Police Station for clarification. “Officers will coordinate with the Phuket Provincial Employment Office to clarify the scope of work for the foreign workers involved. If any violations are found, legal action will be taken.” The Tourist Police hotline at 1155 is available for people to report any suspicions of foreigners engaging in illegal activities, reported Phuket News. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Phuket News Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-11

Phuket Employer Faces Legal Action Over Illegal Worker Incident File photo for reference only In a notable incident in Phuket, authorities have charged a local employer for illegally hiring a Sri Lankan national, K. Piyaralala, on a construction site in Wichit without the necessary work permits. Detectives detained Piyaralala while he was working on a house extension at Ao Kham Beach on Wednesday, 9th October. This breach of Thai labour laws has led to legal proceedings against both the worker and his employer. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340460-phuket-employer-faces-legal-action-over-illegal-worker-incident/

In a notable incident in Phuket, authorities have charged a local employer for illegally hiring a Sri Lankan national, K. Piyaralala, on a construction site in Wichit without the necessary work permits. Detectives detained Piyaralala while he was working on a house extension at Ao Kham Beach on Wednesday, 9th October. This breach of Thai labour laws has led to legal proceedings against both the worker and his employer. Piyaralala has been charged for working without permission, a clear violation under Thai employment regulations. Following his arrest, officials ensured Piyaralala was informed of his rights before transferring his case to the investigation officer for further legal actions. The employer now faces charges under the Emergency Decree on the Management of Alien Employment 2018, specifically for hiring an alien without a work permit. Phuket Immigration authorities are pressing charges to highlight the enforcement of legal hiring practices, emphasising the need for strict adherence to immigration protocols. Phuket Immigration reiterated the importance of complying with Sections 37 and 38 of the Immigration Act 1979, which require accurate reporting of foreign residents’ accommodations. This regulation is fundamental in monitoring the presence of foreigners, ensuring public safety, and preserving Phuket’s reputation as a globally renowned tourist destination. The authorities emphasised that such compliance is essential to maintaining public order and instilling tourist confidence in the area. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-11

Temple Scandal: Shocking Materials Found in Cave Waterfall Project Photo: The Thaiger In a stunning revelation, Wat Pa Don Thuean's ambitious cave waterfall project in Udon Thani faced demolition after alarming construction materials were discovered. The temple, located in the Ban Phue district, planned the serene structure for meditation and tranquillity. However, it was revealed, primarily via a viral Facebook video by Phra Lin Sujitto, that inappropriate items like blood-stained hospital cloth, underwear, and sanitary pads were embedded within the construction. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340458-temple-scandal-shocking-materials-found-in-cave-waterfall-project/

In a stunning revelation, Wat Pa Don Thuean's ambitious cave waterfall project in Udon Thani faced demolition after alarming construction materials were discovered. The temple, located in the Ban Phue district, planned the serene structure for meditation and tranquillity. However, it was revealed, primarily via a viral Facebook video by Phra Lin Sujitto, that inappropriate items like blood-stained hospital cloth, underwear, and sanitary pads were embedded within the construction. Two years ago, the temple’s head monk initiated the project. During this period, Phra Lin Sujitto was on a pilgrimage, leaving the temple to oversee progress. On his return, he sensed something was amiss, confirmed by unsettling visions during meditation, prompting an immediate investigation. The shocking discovery led to the termination of the involved contractor and the decision to demolish the near-complete structure. Phra Lin Sujitto, responsible for fundraising, expressed profound distress at the misuse of funds, amounting to millions of baht. Despite the setback, a new contractor has been appointed to rebuild from scratch. When asked about potential malicious intent or black magic behind the contractor's actions, Phra Lin Sujitto rejected the notion, stating, “I choose to think positively… I hold the Buddha in my heart and follow the path of righteousness.” This incident highlights a mix of sacred intent and shocking anomaly that has left the local community bewildered and hoping for a more auspicious restart. Photo: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-11

Thai Policewoman Faces Embezzlement Charge Over Unreturned Funds File photo for reference only In the Isaan province of Surin, Thailand, a policewoman is in hot water after allegedly refusing to return funds mistakenly transferred to her account by a 30-year-old man named Warut. Warut, seeking justice after a frustrating three-year ordeal, appeared on Channel 7 to share his story, eager for resolution. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340456-thai-policewoman-faces-embezzlement-charge-over-unreturned-funds/

In the Isaan province of Surin, Thailand, a policewoman is in hot water after allegedly refusing to return funds mistakenly transferred to her account by a 30-year-old man named Warut. Warut, seeking justice after a frustrating three-year ordeal, appeared on Channel 7 to share his story, eager for resolution. The saga began on April 26, 2021, when Warut, intending to transfer money to his own bank account, entered an incorrect digit, inadvertently sending the funds to a stranger. His efforts to retrieve the money through official channels fell flat. Local police advised him to liaise with the bank, which, after a fortnight, reported their inability to contact the recipient. Determined, Warut tracked down the policewoman on social media, only to face silence. Two years on, she broke her silence, attributing her lack of response to a hacked account. Despite promising restitution after reviewing her statements, she requested a "processing fee" from Warut—an audacious demand considering the situation. Despite admitting to spending the money, the officer only refunded Warut a meagre 500 baht before vanishing again. With assistance from the media, prominent Thai lawyer Ronnarong Kaewphet intervened, clarifying that the policewoman’s conduct amounted to embezzlement, a serious offence with potential penalties of up to three years' imprisonment or a fine of 60,000 baht. Ronnarong urged Warut to pursue legal action promptly, with the case nearing its expiration. He called for accountability from the policewoman's supervisor, pressing for her removal, citing her professional duty to uphold—rather than flout—the law. This case has caught national attention, highlighting significant issues of trust and integrity within law enforcement. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-11