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Chonburi zoo applies to trademark pigmy hippo calf “Moo Deng” Photo: Thai PBS World Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chonburi province has applied to the Intellectual Property Department for trademark certification for the zoo’s iconic Moo Deng pygmy hippo calf and is awaiting approval, Zoo’s director Narongwit Chodchoi said today. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340168-chonburi-zoo-applies-to-trademark-pigmy-hippo-calf-“moo-deng”/

Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chonburi province has applied to the Intellectual Property Department for trademark certification for the zoo’s iconic Moo Deng pygmy hippo calf and is awaiting approval, Zoo’s director Narongwit Chodchoi said today. The zoo is also offering an opportunity for creative individuals to design a logo and related symbols for Moo Deng, to be used as the zoo’s official trademark. Moo Deng, a three-month-old calf, whose fame has gone viral globally, is at the centre of this initiative, he added. Photo: Thai PBS World Full story: Thai PBS World -- 2024-10-08

Shinawatras Aid Flood Victims with Relief Kitchens in Chiang Mai File photo for reference only Former Thai premiers Thaksin and Yingluck Shinawatra have launched two relief kitchens in their hometown of Chiang Mai, supporting local flood victims with essential meals. This act of kindness marks Thaksin's return to Thailand after years in exile. He is financing a kitchen at Paed Kao Plaza in the Nong Hoi subdistrict, where lunch boxes are being prepared for residents unable to leave their homes due to severe flooding. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340167-shinawatras-aid-flood-victims-with-relief-kitchens-in-chiang-mai/

Former Thai premiers Thaksin and Yingluck Shinawatra have launched two relief kitchens in their hometown of Chiang Mai, supporting local flood victims with essential meals. This act of kindness marks Thaksin's return to Thailand after years in exile. He is financing a kitchen at Paed Kao Plaza in the Nong Hoi subdistrict, where lunch boxes are being prepared for residents unable to leave their homes due to severe flooding. Yingluck, although still in self-imposed exile, contributes from afar by setting up a kitchen at Ton Phayom Market, providing not only nutritious meals but also packages containing daily necessities. Her gesture comes with a message of hope for a swift return to normalcy. In a coordinated effort, the Shinawatra family goes beyond meal provision, sending out teams to distribute drinking water, dry food, and other essential supplies to the most affected areas of Chiang Mai, especially those on the outskirts. This initiative highlights their commitment to their community's well-being in times of crisis. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-08

Bangkok Suffers Severe Smog as PM2.5 Levels Soar Amidst Heat Wave File photo for reference only Bangkok and its surrounding regions are grappling with crippling air pollution, as smog levels hit hazardous peaks. The Pollution Control Department announced that PM2.5, dangerous particulate matter, surpassed safe levels of 35 microgrammes per cubic metre in numerous spots across the city and nearby provinces, putting millions at risk. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340166-bangkok-suffers-severe-smog-as-pm25-levels-soar-amidst-heat-wave/

Bangkok and its surrounding regions are grappling with crippling air pollution, as smog levels hit hazardous peaks. The Pollution Control Department announced that PM2.5, dangerous particulate matter, surpassed safe levels of 35 microgrammes per cubic metre in numerous spots across the city and nearby provinces, putting millions at risk. Come 11am today, October 8, Bangkok's air quality readings varied widely, alarmingly so, from 37 to a high of 48.8µg/m3, with Sathorn district bearing the worst. Neighbouring localities such as Nakhon Pathom, Nonthaburi, Samut Prakan, and Samut Sakhon experienced similar bleak conditions. Samut Sakhon's Krathumbaen and Mueang districts reported 38.3 to 53.4µg/m3, while Nonthaburi saw figures climbing to 45.9µg/m3 in Pak Kret. Mueang district in Nakhon Pathom wasn’t far behind at 46.1µg/m3. Disturbingly, Kanchanaburi's Mueang district reached a staggering 58.8µg/m3. Thailand's Meteorological Department predicts the pollutant haze will persist until October 16, exacerbating the situation. Officials are advising citizens, especially individuals with respiratory issues, to minimise outdoor exposure due to risks like asthma and heart disease aggravation. Residents in affected areas are urged to follow health advisories strictly as the city braces for a prolonged spell of unhealthy air quality. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-08

Thailand's Oil Reserves Steady Amid Middle East Tensions File photo for reference only The Ministry of Energy has assured the Thai public of the country's solid oil reserves amidst growing tensions in the Middle East. With concerns mounting over the conflict between Israel and Iran possibly affecting oil supplies, Thailand boasts enough reserves to last over 60 days. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340165-thailands-oil-reserves-steady-amid-middle-east-tensions/

The Ministry of Energy has assured the Thai public of the country's solid oil reserves amidst growing tensions in the Middle East. With concerns mounting over the conflict between Israel and Iran possibly affecting oil supplies, Thailand boasts enough reserves to last over 60 days. Weerapat Kiatfuengfu, the Deputy Permanent Secretary and spokesperson for the Ministry, stated that they are meticulously monitoring the situation. This vigilance stems from fears that the conflict could disrupt oil exports, causing price hikes globally. Currently, Thailand holds about 3,365 million litres of crude oil, covering 26 days' worth of consumption. Added to this, there are 2,055 million litres of crude oil in transit, good for 16 days, alongside 2,414 million litres of refined oil, providing an additional 20 days of coverage. Weerapat noted that the Ministry is equipped to stabilise domestic oil prices using the Oil Fuel Fund, which has seen improved liquidity, thus reinforcing the country's preparedness against potential oil shortages and volatile price swings. Thailand recently conducted emergency response drills, coordinating with relevant sectors to mitigate any potential impacts of an energy crisis. These efforts underscore the government's commitment to shielding the public from the conflict's fallout. The price of West Texas Intermediate crude oil recently climbed to US$74 per barrel, marking an increase of over 8% within a week. Despite this, Thailand remains poised to manage its fuel needs effectively. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-08

Ministry to Rehabilitate 20,000 Teen E-Cigarette Users in New Plan File photo for reference only The Public Health Ministry has unveiled a rehabilitation plan targeting 20,000 young e-cigarette users, as announced by Minister Somsak Thepsutin. This initiative addresses rising concerns over teen vaping—a hot topic raised by Senator Premsak Piayura during a recent Senate assembly. The surge in e-cigarette use among teenagers has spotlighted governmental oversight and the need for better control measures. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340164-ministry-to-rehabilitate-20000-teen-e-cigarette-users-in-new-plan/

The Public Health Ministry has unveiled a rehabilitation plan targeting 20,000 young e-cigarette users, as announced by Minister Somsak Thepsutin. This initiative addresses rising concerns over teen vaping—a hot topic raised by Senator Premsak Piayura during a recent Senate assembly. The surge in e-cigarette use among teenagers has spotlighted governmental oversight and the need for better control measures. The ministry's plan involves hospital-based screenings to integrate youths into a national rehabilitation programme, aiming to curb the growing e-cigarette trend. Notably, a 2021 report from the National Statistical Office revealed over 80,000 people aged 15 and above were using e-cigarettes, underscoring the urgency of tackling this issue. Further highlighting the gravity of the situation, a 2022 US CDC survey found that 17.6% of Thai youths aged 13 to 15 were vaping—a significant increase from previous years. Minister Somsak stressed that addressing underage e-cigarette use is a priority for the current fiscal year. The Ministry has set forth a comprehensive action plan that includes law enforcement, collaborations with partners, improved policy-making, and awareness campaigns about vaping hazards. Back in May, the ministry formed a task force with the National Tobacco Product Control Committee and the Department of Disease Control. They have already seized over 60,000 vaping devices, valued at approximately 18 million baht. Somsak remains steadfast in promoting healthier lifestyles among teenagers, aiming to reduce e-cigarette use. "We are committed to creating a healthier environment for our youth," he affirmed, underlining the ministry’s dedication to reversing this troubling trend. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-08

Khon Kaen MP accused of 431 million baht embezzlement Photo courtesy of KhaoSod The court of Thailand has postponed the verdict hearing for an MP of Khon Kaen province, who is facing charges of embezzling 431 million baht from the Khon Kaen Teachers’ Savings Cooperative. Ekkarat claims the case has been politically manipulated and made a statement at 2.30pm yesterday, October 7. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340162-khon-kaen-mp-accused-of-431-million-baht-embezzlement/

The court of Thailand has postponed the verdict hearing for an MP of Khon Kaen province, who is facing charges of embezzling 431 million baht from the Khon Kaen Teachers’ Savings Cooperative. Ekkarat claims the case has been politically manipulated and made a statement at 2.30pm yesterday, October 7. The Khon Kaen Provincial Court initially scheduled the verdict for Ekkarat Changlao, a Member of Parliament from the Bhumjaithai Party representing Khon Kaen’s 4th district and former chairperson of the Khon Kaen Teachers’ Savings Cooperative. He stands accused of embezzling a staggering 431 million baht between 2011 and 2019 while serving as the cooperative’s manager. The prosecution, represented by the public prosecutor and attorney Suthon Sonkhamkaew, has charged Ekkarat with embezzlement, document forgery, and using fake official documents in connection with the cooperative’s missing funds. Ekkarat faced the charges without providing an additional 130 million baht in collateral or the 100 million baht to settle damages with the cooperative by the end of July, as per the pre-trial agreement. Initially, he admitted to the charges but later retracted his plea, claiming that the funds were used to purchase land, which was then mortgaged as collateral for the cooperative’s debt. He maintained that he intended to return the money all along. His former legal team advised him to confess, but the prosecution objected, arguing that the trial had already included all witness testimonies, and changing his plea would disrupt the case’s integrity. Land for auction Ekkarat informed the court that the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) seized three plots of land intended for auction. The first auction attracted no buyers due to the high valuation exceeding 500 million baht. Ekkarat proposed to AMLO to divide the land into smaller plots, which would collectively not exceed 300 million baht, ensuring potential buyers. He asked the prosecution to wait for this fund, but they countered, stating Ekkarat had twice breached previous agreements. The cooperative’s general assembly consequently resolved to request the court to impose a penalty on Ekkarat. The court ruled that Ekkarat’s plea retraction was merely a delay tactic since he failed to secure funds to settle the debt as agreed. Therefore, the court denied his request to change the plea and decided to proceed with the original plea. Additionally, the case must be referred to the Chief Judge of the 4th Regional Court for review. The verdict reading has been rescheduled for December 18 at 9am. Ekkarat publicly stated that the issue has been politically manipulated, asserting that money is not the problem and he will eventually return the full amount. He explained that the land in Khon Kaen, currently up for sale, has yet to attract bidders. He reiterated that the funds taken from the cooperative were invested in land to secure the cooperative’s debt. Ekkarat has expressed frustration over the situation, particularly since his previous confession weighed heavily on him. He plans to hold a press conference on Thursday, October 10, to provide more details to the media, reported KhaoSod. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-08

Rayong councillor arrested for siphoning diesel from fishing boats Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Police in Rayong, Thailand, arrested a prominent municipal councillor and his workers for allegedly siphoning diesel fuel from fishing boats at a local port. The councillor denied all charges and requested bail to fight the case. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340161-rayong-councillor-arrested-for-siphoning-diesel-from-fishing-boats/

Police in Rayong, Thailand, arrested a prominent municipal councillor and his workers for allegedly siphoning diesel fuel from fishing boats at a local port. The councillor denied all charges and requested bail to fight the case. Special operations units in Rayong, in collaboration with local police, took action following complaints about illegal fuel sales to fishing boats. The incident happened at Baan Kon Puek Port in Pak Nam, Rayong City. The team, led by Rayong Governor Traiphop Wongtrairat and various high-ranking officials, arrived at the scene around 11am yesterday, October 7. Upon arrival, the police discovered a fishing vessel docked at the port with several workers on board. The officials identified the 39 year old Rayong municipal councillor overseeing the operation. They found workers using hoses to siphon diesel from the vessel, which had been modified to store large quantities of fuel. The diesel was being transferred into 20-litre containers on the pier. The officials immediately detained the councillor and his workers. A thorough inspection of the boat revealed a large tank hidden beneath the deck containing 3,000 litres of diesel. The team seized the fishing boat, a diesel pump, a 10-metre hose, and CCTV footage as evidence. The fishing vessel measured seven wa, a traditional Thai unit equivalent to approximately 14 metres. Thanyathep Amaritsathaworn, a local administrative officer, stated that the operation was part of Rayong Governor Traiphop Wongtrairat’s policy to crack down on illegal fuel trading in the province. Police had been monitoring the port following reports of illegal fuel being transported from the open sea to be sold to fishing boats. Further investigations confirmed the illegal fuel trade, leading to the raid. Police discovered that the diesel was not only being sold to other fishing boats but also to 10-wheel trucks. The officials coordinated with the Rayong branch of the Excise Department and the Regional Marine Office to inspect the fishing vessel further. The councillor, who owned the port, and the boat’s captain were taken to Rayong City Police Station for questioning, reported KhaoSod. The councillor faces charges of smuggling fuel into the kingdom, concealing and distributing contraband, and handling goods that had not cleared customs. He has denied all accusations and has applied for bail, intending to contest the charges in court. By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-08

Elderly Swiss man busted with gun at Phuket Airport Photo courtesy of Phuket News An 82 year old Swiss man was arrested at Phuket International Airport after security found a handgun tucked away in his luggage. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340160-elderly-swiss-man-busted-with-gun-at-phuket-airport/

An 82 year old Swiss man was arrested at Phuket International Airport after security found a handgun tucked away in his luggage. The Swiss national, Kurt Fritz Loliger, a seemingly unassuming pensioner, was stopped at Gate 81 of the International Passenger Terminal last night, October 7. The drama unfolded around 8.30pm when Ainah Pango, an X-ray image officer, spotted something suspicious during a routine scan. A closer inspection revealed it was a handgun—a short-barrel ASTRA cal 6.35 a25 model. Baggage check officer Phakhanat Dumlak immediately called in the police, who confirmed the disturbing find. Loliger was swiftly detained and handed over to the Sakhu Police for further investigation. It remains unclear how the elderly Swiss national came into possession of the firearm or what his intentions were. With airport security being a top priority, this incident has raised serious concerns. Phuket International Airport has strict policies regarding the possession of firearms, and Loliger could face severe legal consequences, reported Phuket News. “We take these matters very seriously. No one is above the law, no matter their age or nationality.” By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Phuket News Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-08

No more slack: Thailand tightens the noose on illegal workers Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail The Government of Thailand is tightening the noose on illegal foreign workers in a sweeping crackdown, with over 2,000 arrests in recent weeks. While the bulk of those detained are undocumented migrants from neighbouring Myanmar, the hunt is expanding to include Western foreigners working illegally in jobs reserved for Thai nationals. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340159-no-more-slack-thailand-tightens-the-noose-on-illegal-workers/

The Government of Thailand is tightening the noose on illegal foreign workers in a sweeping crackdown, with over 2,000 arrests in recent weeks. While the bulk of those detained are undocumented migrants from neighbouring Myanmar, the hunt is expanding to include Western foreigners working illegally in jobs reserved for Thai nationals. Somchai Morakotsriwan, Director General of the Department of Employment (DOE), revealed a heightened focus on roles like tour operators, masseurs, barbers, and online sellers. “We are closely monitoring foreigners in these professions.” Somchai signalled the government’s intent to stamp out illegal employment. This crackdown is a joint effort between labour officials and immigration police. Labour officials target businesses exploiting migrant workers, while immigration officers focus on unauthorised foreign individuals. Recent raids have uncovered illegal workers in restaurants, coconut farms, factories, and even construction sites across Thailand. Pattaya, in particular, has seen a focus on condominium projects. One of the most significant busts involved 20 Chinese nationals running online gambling operations from rented houses in Pattaya. Meanwhile, smaller cases include Russian taxi drivers in Phuket, a mobile Ukrainian manicurist, a Japanese tour guide in Chiang Mai, and a British DJ in Pattaya. Those found guilty face deportation, blacklisting, and, for those from distant countries, jail until they can secure a ticket home. New biometric technology is playing a critical role in tightening the net on illegal entrants, with police using advanced systems to spot facial irregularities and flag violators. Thailand’s immigration spokesperson mentioned the government’s ambition to streamline visitor authorisations with electronic visas and improved entry systems, targeting 2025 for full integration, reported Pattaya Mail. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-08

Thai Airways soars with ‘plane’-tastic gourmet menus for all classes Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Thai Airways (THAI) is taking in-flight dining to new heights, literally. The airline has rolled out premium menus across all cabin classes, offering a luxurious yet culturally immersive experience. With European routes booming at an 80% load factor, Thai Airways has decided to up the ante on its service offerings. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340158-thai-airways-soars-with-‘plane’-tastic-gourmet-menus-for-all-classes/

Thai Airways (THAI) is taking in-flight dining to new heights, literally. The airline has rolled out premium menus across all cabin classes, offering a luxurious yet culturally immersive experience. With European routes booming at an 80% load factor, Thai Airways has decided to up the ante on its service offerings. In First Class, passengers can indulge in Italian caviar sourced from Javeri Caviar, served in elegant 20-gramme tins, accompanied by premium Amarone wine. Economy passengers aren’t left out either—they can enjoy the unique Streets to Sky initiative, a mouth-watering collection of Thai street food served at 30,000 feet, said THAI CEO Chai Eamsiri. “This is part of our Soft Power mission, showcasing Thailand’s rich culinary heritage.” October’s menu highlights include Khao Soi chicken from Lamduan Fah Ham, a famous Chiang Mai restaurant, and butter toast with Thai milk tea from After You, a much-loved dessert chain. The menu is rotated every two months, keeping things fresh and exciting for repeat travellers. For November, expect pandan bread with coconut cream, and in December, the delightful taro custard bread is set to make an appearance. Business and first-class passengers will also enjoy exclusive amenities, with business class receiving redesigned kits from Jim Thompson, while first-class travellers are pampered with La Mer products. Economy class passengers won’t leave empty-handed either, as eco-friendly tote bags from Thai brand Naraya are now distributed on medium- and long-haul flights, reported Pattaya Mail. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-08

Huge Sinkhole Leads to Urgent Road Shutdown in Bangkok Photo: The Pattaya News Late in the evening of October 6, 2024, Thai news outlets reported an incident of road collapse at the Kesa Komol Intersection on Nakhon Chai Si Road in the Dusit District. This required the immediate closure of the route. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340094-huge-sinkhole-leads-to-urgent-road-shutdown-in-bangkok/

Late in the evening of October 6, 2024, Thai news outlets reported an incident of road collapse at the Kesa Komol Intersection on Nakhon Chai Si Road in the Dusit District. This required the immediate closure of the route. A big sinkhole, roughly 10 meters in width, 5 meters in length and 3 meters in depth, opened up near a bridge. Beginning around 7:00 PM, eyewitnesses reportedly noticed cracks forming on the road, but traffic continued as normal. By 9:00 PM, the road quickly caved in, creating a large hole, and forcing the closure of the Kesa Komol Bridge. Nipon Sriruang, Head of Bangkok’s Drainage System Division explained that the collapse took place at a bridge section that is currently under construction as part of a 2-kilometer canal bank project for the Prem Prachakon Canal. Nipon thinks that a broken water pipe beneath the bridge may have caused erosion, leading to the road collapse. Emergency repairs are in progress, using steel plates and asphalt to seal the hole, with expectations that traffic will be back to normal by tomorrow morning. This is according to reports from Thai news outlets, reported The Pattaya News. Photo: The Pattaya News -- 2024-10-07

Kitrat Phanphet Appointed as New National Police Chief File photo for reference only Today, the Police Commission unanimously confirmed Pol Gen Kitrat Phanphet's position as the new national police chief. He takes over from Pol Gen Torsak Sukvimol, who retired last month. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340093-kitrat-phanphet-appointed-as-new-national-police-chief/

Today, the Police Commission unanimously confirmed Pol Gen Kitrat Phanphet's position as the new national police chief. He takes over from Pol Gen Torsak Sukvimol, who retired last month. Since October 1st, Pol Gen Kitrat has temporarily occupied the position of police chief. His competition for the role included Pol Gen Kraiboon Suadsong, an inspector-general, and Pol Gen Thana Chuwong, the previous deputy national police chief. These candidates were part of a selection overseen by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and the Police Commission. A police insider explained that out of twelve members of the Police Commission, only nine were permitted to vote as the other three were up for nomination. In the end, eight members voted for Kitrat, while the Prime Minister chose not to vote. 58-year-old Pol Gen Kitrat's term is set to last until September 2026. This comes after an extensive career that began when he joined the police force in February 1988, starting as a deputy inspector in the Mueang district of Rayong. Pol Gen Kitrat is an alumnus of both the Police Academy (Class 41) and the National Defence College (Class 61). Additionally, he holds a Master's Degree in Public Administration from the National Institute of Development Administration. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-07

Face off: Chinese fraudster has surgery to evade law in Thailand Photo via Matichon A Chinese woman fled fraud charges in China, where she caused a loss of 8 million baht, and escaped to Thailand, undergoing cosmetic surgery to hide her identity. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340091-face-off-chinese-fraudster-has-surgery-to-evade-law-in-thailand/