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Former Aussie cop’s epic run across Thailand for tsunami victims Photo courtesy of Peter Baines via X A former forensic cop from Australia is gearing up for his biggest physical challenge yet—a gruelling 1,400-kilometre run across Thailand in December. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340346-former-aussie-cop’s-epic-run-across-thailand-for-tsunami-victims/

A former forensic cop from Australia is gearing up for his biggest physical challenge yet—a gruelling 1,400-kilometre run across Thailand in December. Dubbed “Run to Remember,” this endurance test marks the 20th anniversary of the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami, which claimed 230,000 lives worldwide, including 5,400 in Thailand. Starting on December 1, charity Hands Across the Water founder Peter Baines will run from Yasothon to Khao Lak, the site devastated by the disaster, arriving on December 26, exactly 20 years after the tragedy. His goal is to raise a whopping 25 million baht for the charity which helps Thai children impacted by the tsunami. The funds will support education centres, including one focused on training students for Thailand’s tourism sector. Baines recalls his time identifying victims after the tsunami. “When I arrived, the scene was unimaginable.” His experience in the aftermath fuelled his mission to help the children left behind. Since founding the charity in 2005, it has expanded to care for over 350 children across seven projects. The run will push Baines to his limits, with 33 marathon distances to cover in the scorching Thai heat. “The heat and humidity will make this especially tough.” If a 1,400-kilometre run sounds too intense, supporters can join the Run to Remember 2024 in Bangkok’s Chatuchak Park on December 15, with proceeds going to Hands Across the Water, reported Hua Hin Today. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Peter Baines via X Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-10

Businessman Sued over Holiday Home that Looks Like Temple Pavilion Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV In an unexpected twist, a 21-year-old businessman, Pitiya, finds himself in a legal battle after his holiday home, built in the Kumpawapi district of Thailand's Udon Thani province, turned out to look more like a temple pavilion than a dream house. Pitiya, supported by his mother, Dr Dolly Sui, and legal advisor Anantachai Chaidej, has filed a formal complaint at the local police station. They accuse the contractor, architect, engineer, and designer of fraud and professional misconduct, invoking Sections 227 and 341 of the Penal Code. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340337-businessman-sued-over-holiday-home-that-looks-like-temple-pavilion/

Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV In an unexpected twist, a 21-year-old businessman, Pitiya, finds himself in a legal battle after his holiday home, built in the Kumpawapi district of Thailand's Udon Thani province, turned out to look more like a temple pavilion than a dream house. Pitiya, supported by his mother, Dr Dolly Sui, and legal advisor Anantachai Chaidej, has filed a formal complaint at the local police station. They accuse the contractor, architect, engineer, and designer of fraud and professional misconduct, invoking Sections 227 and 341 of the Penal Code. The trouble started on March 10, when Pitiya contracted a builder to create a single-story reinforced concrete home for 7.5 million baht (approximately £180,000). Despite promises to file building permits and provide proper oversight, the contractor failed to deliver. Instead, what stands today is a structurally unsound edifice, far from the agreed design. Anantachai detailed how the contractor's deviance from the original plan came to light after an independent engineer's inspection on September 6. The absence of appropriate permits and oversight, alongside substandard material use, breached both project specifications and trust. Pitiya recounted the ordeal, citing a monk's recommendation as the basis of their faith in the contractor's abilities. The journey, however, took a sour turn with the home remaining uninhabitable. Anantachai intends to press charges to thwart future indiscretions by the involved parties, additionally seeking to have their professional licenses revoked by the Council of Engineers. Despite the contractor's stance of the matter being civil, the severity of the offence indicates potential punishment under penal law, which includes fines and imprisonment. Dr Dolly Sui and her son hope justice prevails, offering a pivotal lesson on due diligence and contractual clarity. Meanwhile, the fate of the unfortunate home remains uncertain, clouded by a mix of regret and determination to seek accountability. -- 2024-10-10

Thailand Launches King’s Birthday Urban Park Initiative Across Bangkok File photo for reference only In celebration of His Majesty the King's 6th cycle birthday, Thailand has embarked on 10 royal projects under the theme "Forest, Water, People." Central to these initiatives is the Elevate Pocket Park project, a collaboration between the Thai government and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) to foster urban greening. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340336-thailand-launches-king’s-birthday-urban-park-initiative-across-bangkok/

In celebration of His Majesty the King's 6th cycle birthday, Thailand has embarked on 10 royal projects under the theme "Forest, Water, People." Central to these initiatives is the Elevate Pocket Park project, a collaboration between the Thai government and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) to foster urban greening. The project proposes the development of 72 parks scattered throughout Bangkok, strategically located within a 15-minute walk for residents, providing easy access to nature amidst the city’s hustle and bustle. These compact green spaces are not merely decorative but signify a thoughtful approach to urban living, integrating environmental conservation with everyday life. Prime Minister Office Minister Jiraporn Sindhuprai emphasised the community-centric nature of the initiative. Residents are encouraged to join in the design process to ensure the parks meet local needs, while also promoting collective responsibility for their upkeep. This collaborative effort bridges community participation with cross-sector learning, establishing a joint stewardship culture. Currently, 42 of these eco-friendly parks have been constructed, offering vital green lungs that serve as both relaxation spots and natural dust filters. The 15-minute parks are poised to enhance air quality, mental health, and community bonds, highlighting a lifestyle where convenience aligns with environmental care. This initiative, part of a broader effort to mark the King’s birthday, aims to set a precedent for how conservation can seamlessly blend with urban living. It's a bid to transform Bangkok into a more sustainable, green city, creating a lasting legacy of environmental awareness and community empowerment. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-10

Police hunt for gang rape suspects as more victims step forward Photo via MGR Online In a chilling tale of intimidation and sexual violence, a 19 year old woman from Phetchabun has bravely stepped forward to expose a nightmarish ordeal that saw her and several other young women fall prey to a brutal gang rape. The vicious attack, reportedly carried out by a mob exceeding 10 men, left the victims too terrified to seek justice due to sinister blackmail tactics. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340335-police-hunt-for-gang-rape-suspects-as-more-victims-step-forward/

In a chilling tale of intimidation and sexual violence, a 19 year old woman from Phetchabun has bravely stepped forward to expose a nightmarish ordeal that saw her and several other young women fall prey to a brutal gang rape. The vicious attack, reportedly carried out by a mob exceeding 10 men, left the victims too terrified to seek justice due to sinister blackmail tactics. The young woman’s courageous decision to break her silence was supported by her mother, who accompanied her daughter to consult a lawyer. They approached officers at the Mueang Phetchanuri Police Station, compelling the officers to launch a full-scale investigation. The victim revisited the harrowing scene yesterday, October 9, to aid in piecing together the dreadful events. In an exclusive interview with Channel 3, the victim recounted her terrifying experience. The evening began innocently enough on September 9, with a night out at a local hotspot. But as the clock ticked past 3am on September 10, the night took a sinister turn when she found herself separated from her friends. A phone call from a friend named Jun led her to a dangerous trap. Asked to rendezvous at a rented house in Sadiang sub-district, Phetchaburi province, she initially declined because she didn’t have transport. Yet, Jun’s insistence turned to coercion, sending a man to collect her, sealing her fate in a horrifying ordeal. Upon arriving at the rented house, the victim did not find Jun. She asked the man to take her back home but he ignored her request. More than 10 men in the house immediately approached her. They restrained her arms and legs before forcing white powder into her nose and mouth. The victim said she lost control of herself and was brutally raped by the group. She could remember each suspect clearly. They used mobile phones to record the assault and shone flashlights on her face. The gang later took her back home and she was too embarrassed to share the ordeal with her family. However, she eventually decided to tell her mother and older brother after the gang threatened to release explicit videos of her. The victim identified the suspects to Mueang Phetchanuri Police Station, and officers later discovered more victims in the case. These victims were also too ashamed and afraid to take legal action against the gang. Police are now searching for all relevant suspects, including the victim’s friend, Jun. By Petch Petpailin Photo via MGR Online Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-10

Thai society’s con man unmasked: Smooth criminal pledges to change his stripes Photo via Facebook/ สืบนครบาล IDMB Officers from the Investigation Division of the Metropolitan Police Bureau (IDMB) arrested a fake Thai Hi-So (high-society) man for deceiving more than 30 victims, mostly women, for money. The suspect promised to change his ways after serving his punishment. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340333-thai-society’s-con-man-unmasked-smooth-criminal-pledges-to-change-his-stripes/

Officers from the Investigation Division of the Metropolitan Police Bureau (IDMB) arrested a fake Thai Hi-So (high-society) man for deceiving more than 30 victims, mostly women, for money. The suspect promised to change his ways after serving his punishment. The 27 year old suspect, Krittidate, also known as Sia Meen or Meen Vogue, shared his fake luxurious lifestyle on social media platforms to gain the trust of his victims. He posted pictures of luxury cars, expensive watches, and other valuables, pretending to be wealthy. Krittidate also approached other people in the high-society community and befriended them to make his fake perfect life seem more credible. He then contacted multiple people online, particularly women, gaining their trust before borrowing money or cars from them and disappearing with the valuables. Krittidate reportedly chose his victims at random. He even tricked one victim in financial difficulty into transferring him 21 baht. IDMB officers investigated the case and found that more than 30 people had fallen victim to the scammer, and he was wanted on nine arrest warrants. The total damage Krittidate caused was more than 10 million baht. Officers tracked Krittidate and discovered that he had been contacting many car showroom owners, attempting to deceive them into investing in his fake business. He was also found selling car registration plates with lucky and beautiful numbers on social media. Police successfully arrested Krittidate outside Bangsue Grand Station on Tuesday, October 8, at about 11pm. Despite clear evidence presented by officers, Krittidate insisted on his innocence and denied all allegations. Krittidate recounted his difficult life to the police, saying he had left school at the age of 12. His parents divorced, leaving him without proper care, and he had to look after himself, which led him to make reckless decisions. He eventually confessed to deceiving his victims, admitting that his good looks helped him date four to five women at a time. After dating them for a while, he would borrow money from them and disappear. He said he spent most of the money on online gambling. Krittidate also issued a warning to women seeking true love online, advising them to be cautious, as profiles might not reflect the truth. He promised to change his behaviour after serving his legal punishment. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ สืบนครบาล IDMB Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-10

Thai woman accuses renowned lawyer of stealing 1.8 million baht Photo via DailyNews A Thai woman came forward to expose a renowned lawyer who tricked her into signing a power of attorney document, stealing 1.8 million baht from her in the process. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340269-thai-woman-accuses-renowned-lawyer-of-stealing-18-million-baht/

A Thai woman came forward to expose a renowned lawyer who tricked her into signing a power of attorney document, stealing 1.8 million baht from her in the process. The 47 year old victim, identified only as Ple, sought help from non-profit organisation Saimai Survive to retrieve the 1.8 million baht from the well-known lawyer, whose name was not made public. In this case, Ple explained that she lent her neighbour 3.6 million baht, and the neighbour signed a contract to repay the debt within two years. However, the debtor only paid her 300,000 baht and begged her to extend the repayment period. Ple said she agreed to the debtor’s request but still did not receive her money. As a result, she hired a lawyer in September 2015 to sue her neighbour over the debt. In 2017, the Nakhon Pathom Provincial Court ordered the debtor to pay her 3.3 million baht. Ple then signed a power of attorney document allowing the lawyer to conveniently follow up on the repayment on her behalf. However, the lawyer allegedly used this power illegally for his benefit. Ple disclosed that she repeatedly asked the lawyer about her money but he told her that the debtor had not yet paid, claiming the debtor was waiting to sell valuables to repay the debt. Ple eventually sought the truth from the Legal Execution Department and discovered that the debtor already paid more than 1.8 million baht but the money went to the lawyer. Moreover, her lawyer also took a bribe of 50,000 baht from the debtor to manipulate the case in the debtor’s favour. Saimai Survive added that this was not the first accusation against the lawyer. The organisation revealed a complaint from another victim in October last year, alleging that the lawyer failed to pay home rent for over a year. The organisation has promised to help Ple seek justice and retrieve her money, but the next steps in their operation were not disclosed in the report. By Petch Petpailin Photo via DailyNews Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-09

Eastar Jet resumes daily flights to Chiang Mai in December Photo courtesy of Thai Inter Flying Facebook page South Korea’s budget airline, Eastar Jet, is bringing back its daily flights to Chiang Mai after a pandemic-induced hiatus. The airline confirmed that from December 19, it will resume the Busan-Chiang Mai route, offering travellers a convenient link between two major cities known for their tourism and event-hosting prowess. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340268-eastar-jet-resumes-daily-flights-to-chiang-mai-in-december/

South Korea’s budget airline, Eastar Jet, is bringing back its daily flights to Chiang Mai after a pandemic-induced hiatus. The airline confirmed that from December 19, it will resume the Busan-Chiang Mai route, offering travellers a convenient link between two major cities known for their tourism and event-hosting prowess. Using a Boeing 737-800, with a capacity of 189 seats, the flights will provide a much-needed boost to both South Korea’s second-largest city, Busan, and Thailand’s second-largest, Chiang Mai. Busan, famous for its beaches, seafood, and vibrant festivals, will once again connect seamlessly with Chiang Mai, a cultural and historical gem nestled in northern Thailand. Both cities rely heavily on tourism, incentive travel, and conventions, and this flight resumption couldn’t come at a better time. Flight ZE947 will depart Busan at 6pm local time and touch down in Chiang Mai at 9pm Thailand time, while the return flight ZE948 will leave Chiang Mai at 10.20pm, arriving back in Busan at 6.05am local time the next day. Eastar Jet, founded in 2009 and based in Seoul, has a history of serving passengers with affordable fares. Having started with a domestic route between Gimpo and Jeju, it now operates flights to 14 destinations across eight countries. The revival of this international route highlights the resurgence of post-pandemic travel demand, reported TTR Weekly. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Thai Inter Flying Facebook page Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-09

Koh Samui hide ‘n’ seek: Fugitive’s 19-year retreat ends in arrest Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Police apprehended a fugitive on the island of Koh Samui who had been evading capture for 19 years. The 47 year old suspect was only one year away from the statute of limitations expiring for his crimes. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340267-koh-samui-hide-‘n’-seek-fugitive’s-19-year-retreat-ends-in-arrest/

Police apprehended a fugitive on the island of Koh Samui who had been evading capture for 19 years. The 47 year old suspect was only one year away from the statute of limitations expiring for his crimes. Police, under the direction of Lieutenant General Jiraphop Phuridech, Commissioner of the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB), and led by Major General Montri Theskhan, Colonel Phongpanot Chukaew, and Lieutenant Colonel Thanakorn Uchanarasamee, executed the arrest. Rathakorn, under a warrant issued by the Phatthalung Provincial Court on December 1, 2005, was charged with premeditated murder, illegal possession of firearms and ammunition, carrying firearms in public without permission, and carrying firearms without urgent necessity. Rathakorn had been living a secluded life on Koh Samui in Surat Thani province, avoiding any contact with police. He even refrained from seeking medical attention after being involved in a car accident and did not attend his father’s funeral to avoid detection. His evasive behaviour included not renewing his identification card and avoiding hospitals during the Covid-19 pandemic. The police finally tracked him down to a residence in Maenam, Koh Samui, where he was arrested while heading to work in the morning. Despite being shown the arrest warrant, Rathakorn denied all allegations. He was subsequently taken to Phatthalung Police Station, where the original crime took place, to face legal proceedings. The case dates back to late 2005 when Rathakorn and his accomplices visited a nightclub in Phatthalung. A dispute with another group escalated, leading Rathakorn and his associates to follow the rival group in a car after the nightclub closed. They encountered the rival group in front of Kanchanaphisek Park on Ramesuan Road in Kuhasawan, Mueang Phatthalung. Rathakorn then allegedly shot and killed one of the rivals. Fugitive arrest Following the incident, Rathakorn and his accomplices went their separate ways to evade arrest. While his friends were eventually apprehended, Rathakorn managed to remain at large, constantly relocating to avoid capture. He believed that hiding on Koh Samui, a remote island, would keep him safe from police detection. In a police interview, Rathakorn admitted to being aware of the arrest warrant against him and said he had been in hiding ever since. He thought the remote location of Koh Samui would prevent the police from finding him. For nearly two decades, he avoided all forms of identification and government transactions. He even skipped getting a Covid-19 vaccine and stayed away from his father’s funeral in Phatthalung, knowing that police were monitoring the event, reported KhaoSod. “I thought I could endure just one more year until the statute of limitations expired but the police managed to catch me.” By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-09

High-flying news: Siam Seaplane cleared for takeoff Photo courtesy of ch-aviation Siam Seaplane has finally soared to new heights with its freshly minted air operator certificate (AOC), issued by the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT). The certificate, AOC.0032, valid until October 2026, allows the airline to officially begin commercial flights. But there’s a surprising twist—despite the name, it won’t be flying off water just yet, announced an enthusiastic CEO, Worakanaya Siripidej. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340266-high-flying-news-siam-seaplane-cleared-for-takeoff/

Siam Seaplane has finally soared to new heights with its freshly minted air operator certificate (AOC), issued by the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT). The certificate, AOC.0032, valid until October 2026, allows the airline to officially begin commercial flights. But there’s a surprising twist—despite the name, it won’t be flying off water just yet, announced an enthusiastic CEO, Worakanaya Siripidej. “With our AOC certification in hand today, we are now ready to operate. I want to assure everyone that our standards will always exceed expectations.” However, those expecting thrilling amphibious flights will have to wait. Siam Seaplane’s launch will feature land-based operations instead, relying on a single Cessna 208EX, registered as HS-SSP. According to Seaplane Asia CEO Dennis Keller, approvals for water-based take-offs and landings are proving more complicated than anticipated. “We realised that the process and approvals for the water take-offs and landings will take time to secure. We knew this from the start, but it is taking longer than initially planned.” While amphibious operations remain on hold, Siam Seaplane’s parent company, Seaplane Asia, secured funding earlier this year, with plans to expand its footprint across Southeast Asia. The company has its sights set on acquiring two more Cessna 208EXs. Thailand has not seen amphibious aircraft in the skies for 15 years, but Keller is confident that the necessary approvals will come through. Once they do, Siam Seaplane will be able to live up to its name and introduce amphibious operations, bringing water-based flights back to Thai skies, reported ch-aviation. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of ch-aviation Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-09

Luxury Cars Seized in Thai Gold Scam: Fraud Accusations Unfold File photo for reference only In a high-profile fraud investigation in Thailand, the Consumer Protection Police Division has impounded several luxury vehicles owned by gold retailers Mae Tuck and Pa Bia, accused of cheating customers with impure gold jewellery. Officers led by Pol Maj Gen Withaya Sriprasertparp seized four opulent cars in Bangkok and Pathum Thani, including a Porsche, a Lamborghini, a Ford Mustang, and a Volkswagen van, valued at 50 million baht. Previously, five other luxury automobiles were confiscated, totalling 120 million baht. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340265-luxury-cars-seized-in-thai-gold-scam-fraud-accusations-unfold/

In a high-profile fraud investigation in Thailand, the Consumer Protection Police Division has impounded several luxury vehicles owned by gold retailers Mae Tuck and Pa Bia, accused of cheating customers with impure gold jewellery. Officers led by Pol Maj Gen Withaya Sriprasertparp seized four opulent cars in Bangkok and Pathum Thani, including a Porsche, a Lamborghini, a Ford Mustang, and a Volkswagen van, valued at 50 million baht. Previously, five other luxury automobiles were confiscated, totalling 120 million baht. The couple, Kornkanok "Mae Tuck" Suwannabut and Kanpon "Pa Bia" Rueang-aram, attracted online attention by showcasing an extravagant lifestyle. However, the police determined their social media posts had been manipulated to exaggerate their wealth. Investigations have also frozen 24 million baht in their bank accounts and scrutinized their holdings, including nine houses, 16 plots of land, and luxury watches worth over 28.7 million baht. Adding intrigue, police are extending their probe to include celebrities and influencers involved in marketing the couple's dubious gold products. Arrested on September 30, Mae Tuck and Pa Bia remain detained until early November, with authorities aiming to conclude the investigation by then. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-09

Senate Probes Alleged Mistreatment in Conscript's Tragic Death File photo for reference only In a disturbing turn of events, the Senate military committee has launched an investigation into the untimely death of a conscript at the Naval Military Police in Sattahip, amid allegations of mistreatment by a drill sergeant. Pvt Siriwat Jaidee reportedly died during training, raising serious concerns about the treatment of the conscripts. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340264-senate-probes-alleged-mistreatment-in-conscripts-tragic-death/

In a disturbing turn of events, the Senate military committee has launched an investigation into the untimely death of a conscript at the Naval Military Police in Sattahip, amid allegations of mistreatment by a drill sergeant. Pvt Siriwat Jaidee reportedly died during training, raising serious concerns about the treatment of the conscripts. The committee's spokesperson, Vithavee Prathumsawat, announced today that Major Korapot Runghirunwat and Lt-Commander Wuthipong Pongsuwan have been assigned to delve into the circumstances surrounding Siriwat's passing. As part of their comprehensive approach, the committee's secretary, Chaiyong Maneerungsakul, is set to visit the victim's family in Songkhla province, providing support and listening to their perspective on the tragic event. The death of Pvt Siriwat has sent ripples of concern through the ranks, impacting overall morale. Wuthipong emphasised the importance of the investigation, suggesting that clearing up whether Siriwat's death was due to foul play or an unfortunate accident is crucial. Last Friday, in a move highlighting the seriousness of the issue, Nitchanan Wangkahart, a former election candidate, accompanied the victim’s sister to file a formal complaint, urging a thorough probe. The complaint alleges that Siriwat endured severe training conditions, including assault by the drill sergeant and prolonged exposure to the sun as punishment for ostensibly feigning illness. The incident has raised questions about military training practices and is a stark reminder of the duty of care owed to those who serve. The investigation seeks not only to ascertain the facts but also to restore confidence in the military's treatment of its conscripts. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-09

Thailand and Laos Strengthen Ties with Six New Agreements File photo for reference only In a significant move to bolster their bilateral relations, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra of Thailand and her Lao counterpart, Sonexay Siphandone, signed six detailed agreements on Wednesday. This historic signing took place just ahead of the ASEAN summits, aimed at enhancing their nations' cooperation across various sectors. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340263-thailand-and-laos-strengthen-ties-with-six-new-agreements/

In a significant move to bolster their bilateral relations, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra of Thailand and her Lao counterpart, Sonexay Siphandone, signed six detailed agreements on Wednesday. This historic signing took place just ahead of the ASEAN summits, aimed at enhancing their nations' cooperation across various sectors. The agreements cover crucial areas such as integrated water resource management and establish a formal connection between Thailand's Khon Kaen province and the Lao capital, Vientiane. Cooperation in civil servant management, technical assistance, rail freight transport, and the reinforcement of the Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge also featured prominently in the discussions. Prime Minister Paetongtarn presented the design for a new bridge over the Mekong River to the Lao leader, and both expressed a strong commitment to tackle shared challenges, including drug trafficking and air pollution. Moreover, they pledged to deepen ties in trade, investment, infrastructure, and labour, while upholding their mutual support in regional matters. Their meeting highlighted the enduring strength of the relationship, especially as they approach the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations next year. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-09

Thailand Eyes UN Human Rights Council Seat with Optimism File photo for reference only Thailand is hopeful for a place on the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) as voting approaches. The election takes place this Wednesday, October 9, involving all 193 UN members casting secret ballots at the UN headquarters in New York. Cherdchai Chaivaivit, Thailand’s Permanent Representative to the UN, expressed "cautious optimism" regarding their bid. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340262-thailand-eyes-un-human-rights-council-seat-with-optimism/