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Popular television host Kan Kantathavorn has been suspended from all Workpoint Entertainment programmes as the investigation into his alleged involvement with the controversial The iCon Group heats up. The company swiftly announced yesterday, October 10, that Kan would be removed from hosting duties with immediate effect until his ties with the scandal-plagued business are cleared up. Kan, in a bid to clear his name, took to Facebook to reveal that he had offered to step down from his role as a presenter on all shows. “I’ve already offered to end my role as host and moderator of all television programmes.” At the centre of the storm is The iCon Group, an e-commerce giant known for hiring celebrities to endorse its products. However, the company was quick to defend its ambassadors, stating that Kan, alongside Yuranunt Pamornmontri and Peechaya Wattanamontree, are neither shareholders in the company nor executives authorised to act on behalf of the firm. They clarified that these stars only assist with marketing efforts, while Pakorn Chatborirak and Pakorn Lam serve as brand ambassadors. The scandal erupted after 80 investors lodged complaints with the police, accusing The iCon Group of duping them out of a staggering 31 million baht. These investors claim they were lured in by a business course and then persuaded to invest as dealers, with the promise of lucrative returns that never materialised, reported Thai PBS World. With a police investigation underway, Kan’s future in television hangs in the balance. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Thai PBS World Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-11

Move over ChatGPT, Meta’s AI chatbot now speaks Thai Photo courtesy of Punch Newspapers In a bold move to challenge OpenAI’s ChatGPT, Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook, is rolling out its artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot, Meta AI, to 21 new markets, including Thailand. With Thai language support now on the table, Meta is upping the stakes in the race for AI chatbot supremacy. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340362-move-over-chatgpt-meta’s-ai-chatbot-now-speaks-thai/

In a bold move to challenge OpenAI’s ChatGPT, Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook, is rolling out its artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot, Meta AI, to 21 new markets, including Thailand. With Thai language support now on the table, Meta is upping the stakes in the race for AI chatbot supremacy. Big tech companies have been fiercely competing to attract consumers to their AI platforms, and Meta is no exception. By adding language support for Thai, Indonesian, Vietnamese, and Arabic, the company is making sure its chatbot is more accessible than ever. “Meta AI, which currently has almost 500 million monthly active users, will be available in the UK, Brazil, and more countries across Latin America and Asia beginning Wednesday.” This expansion is part of a strategic push to dominate the global AI market. Once the rollout is complete, Meta AI will be available in 43 countries and support a dozen languages, keeping the company on track to become the most used AI assistant worldwide by the end of 2024. However, Meta’s expansion comes with a catch. Despite the wider availability, the flashy new character voices for the AI chatbot, teased by CEO Mark Zuckerberg at Meta’s annual Connect conference, aren’t part of this wave. The company clarified that these features are being rolled out on a separate timeline, leaving users eager for the upgrade to wait a little longer, reported Bangkok Post. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Punch Newspapers Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-10

Chiang Mai Fabric Stores Offer Discounts on Flood-Damaged Stock File photo for reference only Several fabric store owners in Chiang Mai's primary marketplace are selling their flood-impacted merchandise at reduced rates in order to recover a portion of their losses. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340361-chiang-mai-fabric-stores-offer-discounts-on-flood-damaged-stock/

Several fabric store owners in Chiang Mai's primary marketplace are selling their flood-impacted merchandise at reduced rates in order to recover a portion of their losses. The owners have set up an impromptu outdoor market at Waroros Market, close to their still-closed shops that are undergoing post-flood repairs. This novel roadside market is gaining quite a few customers, especially since the marred products are being sold at a discount ranging from 50% to 90%. Waroros Market is one of the most bustling business spots in downtown Chiang Mai. However, due to recent severe floods, numerous shops and their stocks suffered substantial damage. Navin Batra, an owner of a fabric store in the marketplace, expressed that this year's flood happened abruptly and took him by surprise. He admitted that he wasn't prepared enough, causing his products stored in the warehouse to sustain damage worth over 20 million baht. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-10

Alleged MLM Scam Victims Press Charges Against Celebrities, Company File photo for reference only People who claim to have been scammed in a supposed multi-level marketing fraud have taken legal steps in Thailand. They have implicated a popular direct sales company and several celebrities in fraudulent acts. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340360-alleged-mlm-scam-victims-press-charges-against-celebrities-company/

People who claim to have been scammed in a supposed multi-level marketing fraud have taken legal steps in Thailand. They have implicated a popular direct sales company and several celebrities in fraudulent acts. The Foundation Campaigning to Reclaim Social Justice's lawyers joined approximately 20 victims on Thursday to lodge complaints with the Consumer Protection Police Division (CPPD). They claim to be representing almost 500 individuals who invested in the company's business initiative program. According to the alleged victims, they were initially attracted to the company by its online advertisements along with social media campaigns, and were persuaded to invest, enticed by the promise of high profits and celebrity endorsements. Many people committed during the post-COVID economic downturn as they were looking for additional ways to make money. However, after investing large amounts of money, they found they couldn't sell the company's merchandise but were instead urged to bring in more investors. Some victims even resorted to taking loans or selling their possessions to fund their investment. Many ended up losing their life savings. The victims claim that the company was operating a pyramid scheme, where earnings come primarily from recruiting more members than from selling products or services. Decha Kittiwittayanan, a lawyer representing another group of victims, said they are calling on the authorities to examine whether the company's actions breached public fraud, pyramid schemes, false advertising, and direct sales regulations. Victims reported average losses of 500,000 baht ($14,000) per person. The Consumer Protection Board (CPB) is now looking into the issue and is asking other potential victims to report their experiences. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-10

Rising Cases of Bacterial Infections Linked to Flooding in Thailand File photo for reference only The Disease Control Department in Thailand is warning citizens about a sharp increase in bacterial infections, specifically Leptospirosis and Melioidosis, during the rainy and flood seasons. These infections pose a particular threat to children and require careful monitoring. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340358-rising-cases-of-bacterial-infections-linked-to-flooding-in-thailand/

The Disease Control Department in Thailand is warning citizens about a sharp increase in bacterial infections, specifically Leptospirosis and Melioidosis, during the rainy and flood seasons. These infections pose a particular threat to children and require careful monitoring. These diseases have led to approximately 6,000 reported cases and 119 deaths in the first three quarters of this year, according to Dr. Weerawat Manosuthi. Leptospirosis can spread via animals like rats, pigs, cows, buffaloes, goats, sheep, and dogs. The bacteria can infect humans through cuts, abrasions, or skin that has been soaked in dirty water for an extended period. This year, Thailand has reported at least 2,926 cases of Leptospirosis. Interestingly, over 66% of the infected individuals are farmers who have direct contact with water and mud. Death from the disease typically results from delayed medical attention, or attempts at self-medication. People between the ages of 55-64 are the most diagnosed demographic, but children are also at risk from playing in flood waters. Parents are urged to keep a close watch on their children during the rainy season. Dr. Akkaratan Chitnuyanan, the Director of the Queen Sirikit National Institute of Child Health, indicates that symptoms can include high fever, headaches, muscle or joint pain, chills, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and eye irritation. Another alarming disease is Melioidosis. The bacteria responsible for it resides in soil and water and can infect humans through prolonged direct contact, consumption of contaminated food or water, or inhalation of soil dust. Around 76.7% of patients who contract Melioidosis are also farmers. From January to late September, there were 2,881 reported cases of Melioidosis, including 90 resulting in death. The Disease Control Department suggests these preventive measures: Try to stay out of water for long periods and don't wade in water and mud barefoot. Washing your body immediately after getting out of water can minimize exposure to the disease. Ensure your drinking water is clean and your food is fully cooked and fresh. Maintain cleanliness in your living area and dispose of food waste properly to prevent disease spread. If you experience prolonged symptoms like high fever, headache, or muscle pain, seek medical attention immediately to avoid any severe health complications. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-10

Muay Thai Recognized Globally, Drives Economy Photo: Thai News Agency BANGKOK, Oct 10 (TNA) – Muay Thai, the national sport of Thailand, has seen a surge in global recognition. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340356-muay-thai-recognized-globally-drives-economy/

BANGKOK, Oct 10 (TNA) – Muay Thai, the national sport of Thailand, has seen a surge in global recognition. The combat sport is now professionally regulated by the World Boxing Council (WBC) Muaythai and the International Federation of Muaythai Amateur. This increased recognition led the United Nations to acknowledge Muay Thai as a sport for all, signing agreements with both governing bodies. Photo: Thai News Agency Full story: Thai News Agency -- 2024-10-10

Thai PM urged to seek extradition of Tak Bai Massacre suspect from Japan at ASEAN Summits Photo: Thai PBS World Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra should ask her Japanese counterpart during the ASEAN Summit in Laos to extradite a suspect in the Tak Bai massacre to stand trial in Thailand before the statute of limitations runs out on October 25. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340354-thai-pm-urged-to-seek-extradition-of-tak-bai-massacre-suspect-from-japan-at-asean-summits/

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra should ask her Japanese counterpart during the ASEAN Summit in Laos to extradite a suspect in the Tak Bai massacre to stand trial in Thailand before the statute of limitations runs out on October 25. People’s party leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut, also the Opposition leader, told a press conference today that two of seven suspects due to stand trial have fled the country, one to Japan and another to the UK. The suspect believed to be in Japan can either be extradited as a wanted man or deported as a persona non grata. Since there is no extradition treaty between Thailand and Japan, Natthaphong suggested that the PM takes an opportunity during the ASEAN plus 3 summit in Laos to ask the Japanese prime minister for help in getting the unnamed suspect deported to Thailand for trial. Photo: Thai PBS World Full story: Thai PBS World -- 2024-10-10

Unsafe at work: Thai experts sound the alarm on Mental Health Day Photo: Thai PBS World Workplaces in Thailand lack psychological safety nets for employees facing stress, depression and other mental health issues, according to campaigners marking World Mental Health Day 2024. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340353-unsafe-at-work-thai-experts-sound-the-alarm-on-mental-health-day/

Workplaces in Thailand lack psychological safety nets for employees facing stress, depression and other mental health issues, according to campaigners marking World Mental Health Day 2024. The World Health Organisation has chosen “Mental Health at Work” as the theme for this year’s World Mental Health Day, observed on Thursday, October 10. The theme aims to encourage governments, employers, workers’ organisations, and other stakeholders to collaborate in creating safe, healthy working environments that serve to protect mental health. Photo: Thai PBS World Full story: Thai PBS World -- 2024-10-10

Body of foreign man discovered near Patong Beach, police launch investigation File photo for reference only The police are trying to identify a foreign man's body that was found floating in the water at the southern end of Patong Beach earlier today. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340351-body-of-foreign-man-discovered-near-patong-beach-police-launch-investigation/

The police are trying to identify a foreign man's body that was found floating in the water at the southern end of Patong Beach earlier today. A guest staying at a hotel on Muen Ngern Road saw the body and informed the authorities at around 9:10 this morning, the 10th of October. A police team, along with members of the Kusoldharm Foundation, quickly responded to the call. They located the man's body in the water, dressed only in shorts, face down. Following the recovery of the body by rescue workers, it was sent to Patong Hospital for an autopsy. Early indications suggest that the first people to detect the body were hotel staff members. They saw it near the shore, leading to an urgent call to emergency services. Police are now focusing on identifying the man and are looking at any recent missing person reports in the area that might aid their investigation. Information regarding the man's nationality or what led to his death hasn't yet been provided by the police. As the investigation continues, the detectives are committed to finding out the truth. Anyone with any useful information is urged by police to step forward. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-10

Big Buddha Phuket Foundation Charged Over Fatal Landslide Incident File photo for reference only Authorities have charged the Big Buddha Phuket Phraphutthamingmongkhol Sattha 45 Foundation and its president, Suporn Wanichakul, following a devastating landslide triggered by heavy rains in Thailand. The charges, which stem from forest encroachment and unauthorised construction on Nak Koet Hill, come in the wake of the tragedy that claimed 13 lives and injured 19 others on August 23. The landslide primarily affected residents along Soi Patak 2 Road in the Mueang district's tambon Karon, impacting 209 households. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340350-big-buddha-phuket-foundation-charged-over-fatal-landslide-incident/

Authorities have charged the Big Buddha Phuket Phraphutthamingmongkhol Sattha 45 Foundation and its president, Suporn Wanichakul, following a devastating landslide triggered by heavy rains in Thailand. The charges, which stem from forest encroachment and unauthorised construction on Nak Koet Hill, come in the wake of the tragedy that claimed 13 lives and injured 19 others on August 23. The landslide primarily affected residents along Soi Patak 2 Road in the Mueang district's tambon Karon, impacting 209 households. Karon police have forwarded the charges related to forest destruction to public prosecutors, highlighting the gravity of the situation. The Royal Forest Department identified the clearing of trees at the hilltop for the construction of the enormous 45-metre-tall Buddha statue as a significant factor in the landslide. This statue, standing under the auspices of the National Office of Buddhism, prompted safety concerns, eventually leading to the site's closure to the public on September 2. As the investigation progresses, it underscores the tension between development and environmental preservation. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-10

Thailand triumphs in UN Human Rights council bid Photo courtesy of Thai PBS World Thailand emerged victorious in its bid to join the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) with an impressive 177 votes—the highest of all candidates—securing a coveted three-year term to champion human rights across the globe. The decision was revealed yesterday, October 9, following a secret ballot by the UN. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340349-thailand-triumphs-in-un-human-rights-council-bid/

Thailand emerged victorious in its bid to join the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) with an impressive 177 votes—the highest of all candidates—securing a coveted three-year term to champion human rights across the globe. The decision was revealed yesterday, October 9, following a secret ballot by the UN. In a closely watched contest, Cyprus and Qatar each received 167 votes, followed by South Korea with 161, and the Marshall Islands with 120. However, Saudi Arabia’s campaign failed, gathering just 117 votes, the lowest among the six candidates for five available seats. Thailand’s successful bid comes at a critical time, as the nation seeks to boost its international reputation following the recent election of a new government. With a focus on promoting dialogue among UNHRC members and enhancing the capacity to protect rights and freedoms, Thailand’s campaign struck a chord with UN members. The UNHRC, established in 2006, is responsible for strengthening the protection of human rights worldwide. It consists of 47 member countries, divided into five regional groups. Alongside Thailand, Ethiopia and Qatar were among the 18 nations elected to serve three-year terms on the council. Saudi Arabia’s failure to secure a seat was met with applause from human rights groups. Reprieve, a campaign group, stated, “For far too long, [Crown Prince] Mohammed bin Salman’s regime has acted as if it has complete impunity to commit grave human rights abuses.” Tess McEvoy, Programme Director at the International Service for Human Rights, added, “States voted down the less deserving candidate, refusing to hand powerful actors who violate basic rights an ability to bend key human rights processes in their favour.” With this victory, Thailand is set to begin its term in 2024, alongside fellow winners from Africa, Asia-Pacific, and other regions, reported Thai PBS World. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Thai PBS World Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-10

Don’t ban TEMU: Thai experts call for enhanced trade standards Photo courtesy of The Nation Thailand should embrace trade opportunities with China rather than follow Indonesia’s lead in banning the Chinese e-commerce platform TEMU, say experts. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340348-don’t-ban-temu-thai-experts-call-for-enhanced-trade-standards/

Thailand should embrace trade opportunities with China rather than follow Indonesia’s lead in banning the Chinese e-commerce platform TEMU, say experts. In light of Indonesia’s recent decision to prohibit the TEMU application, the International Institute for Trade and Development (ITD) voiced its opposition to a similar move by Thailand. Wimol Pankong, Deputy Director (Academic) of ITD, urged the Thai government to pursue a more balanced approach focused on establishing rigorous standards rather than outright bans. “I believe that Thailand and China can create trade opportunities together.” Wimol explained that Thailand’s smaller population makes it unwise to emulate Indonesia’s stringent measures. Instead, he emphasised the need for a free trade environment, highlighting the substantial trade relationship between Thailand and China. He noted that China provides favourable conditions for Thai products, allowing tax-free exports at specific thresholds, which could significantly benefit local businesses. There is a growing demand for Thai food products among Chinese consumers, and Wimol encouraged Thai entrepreneurs to tailor their goods to effectively target this market. With the potential for Thai soft power to penetrate the Chinese market, he remains optimistic about the possibilities that lie ahead. Moreover, Wimol reassured that banning TEMU would be counterproductive, especially considering the Chinese ambassador’s commitment to working with the platform to ensure compliance with Thai regulations. These regulations require that foreign products meet local standards, allowing for a collaborative approach that could foster stronger trade ties, reported The Nation. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-10

Thaksin and Pheu Thai Party face constitutional showdown Photo courtesy of The Nation Independent lawyer Thirayut Suwankesorn, renowned for dismantling the Move Forward Party, has launched a scathing complaint against the ruling Pheu Thai Party and its influential patriarch, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340347-thaksin-and-pheu-thai-party-face-constitutional-showdown/

Independent lawyer Thirayut Suwankesorn, renowned for dismantling the Move Forward Party, has launched a scathing complaint against the ruling Pheu Thai Party and its influential patriarch, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. The complaint, submitted to the Constitutional Court at 10.30am today, October 10, accuses them of a serious breach of constitutional protocol, alleging attempts to undermine the country’s constitutional monarchy. Thirayut’s extensive 65-page document accuses both Thaksin and the Pheu Thai Party of violating Article 49 of the Constitution, which prohibits anyone from exercising his or her rights and liberty in a way that undermines the democratic system with the king as head of state. This explosive news was disclosed by Paiboon Nititawan, Secretary-General of the Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP), who emphasised that his party had no involvement in this legal move. This comes after the PPRP was expelled from the Pheu Thai-led coalition in August, a decision that reportedly angered its leader, Prawit Wongsuwan, who has since vowed political retribution. Paiboon revealed that Thirayut requested the Constitutional Court to compel Thaksin and Pheu Thai to cease all actions deemed hostile to the constitutional monarchy. This latest move echoes a previous complaint by Thirayut that led to the dissolution of the Move Forward Party in August, with the court ruling that it had violated the Constitution by seeking to amend Article 112 of the Criminal Code, known as the lese majeste law. When queried about specific actions included in his complaint, Thirayut confirmed that the controversial August 14 meeting at Thaksin’s Bangkok mansion—where coalition partners deliberated forming a new government—was among them. He expressed confidence in his case. “I have witnesses ready to testify against the two defendants.” Thirayut’s decision to approach the Constitutional Court directly stemmed from the lack of action following his previous complaint to the Office of the Attorney-General on September 24, reported The Nation. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-10