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New opposition leader takes the helm after party collapse Photo courtesy of The Nation People’s Party leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut has officially taken on the role of opposition leader, following a royal command issued by His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339755-new-opposition-leader-takes-the-helm-after-party-collapse/

People’s Party leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut has officially taken on the role of opposition leader, following a royal command issued by His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua. This appointment, made on September 25, marks the beginning of a crucial chapter for Natthaphong and the People’s Party, as they step into the role of holding the government to account. The royal command, which was countersigned by Parliament President Wan Muhamad Noor Matha, was published in the Royal Gazette on Tuesday, October 1, solidifying Natthaphong’s appointment as the opposition leader. The statement referred to Article 106 of the Constitution, which empowers the king to appoint the leader of the largest opposition party once the prime minister delivers the government’s policy statement. PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra presented the government’s policies on September 12 and 13, paving the way for this appointment. The People’s Party, which Natthaphong leads, was formed in the wake of the Move Forward Party’s dissolution on August 7. The Constitutional Court ruled that the now-defunct MFP had violated constitutional provisions by allegedly attempting to undermine the monarchy. Following the court’s decision, all MFP MPs joined the newly formed People’s Party, with Natthaphong taking the helm. During the formal ceremony in Parliament, Natthaphong paid respects to the king’s portrait while receiving the royal command. Deputy House Speaker Paradorn Prissananthakul, representing the coalition leader Bhumjaithai Party, congratulated him with a bouquet. Though not all People’s Party MPs were present, many were on hand to offer their well-wishes to their new leader, reported The Nation. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-03

New ‘Dee-Delivery’ regulation to combat COD fraud epidemic Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail With online scams skyrocketing, the Government of Thailand is stepping in to crack down on delivery fraud. Enter the new Dee-Delivery regulation, designed to shield cash-on-delivery (COD) shoppers from getting duped. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339753-new-‘dee-delivery’-regulation-to-combat-cod-fraud-epidemic/

With online scams skyrocketing, the Government of Thailand is stepping in to crack down on delivery fraud. Enter the new Dee-Delivery regulation, designed to shield cash-on-delivery (COD) shoppers from getting duped. According to Minister Jiraporn Sindhuprai from the Prime Minister’s Office, this drastic move comes after a jaw-dropping 365,000 scam cases were reported in the last 18 months, causing financial losses of 45 billion baht. With e-commerce crimes making up 40% of these incidents, it’s clear that something had to give. But the Dee-Delivery regulation isn’t just a band-aid. It’s part of a broader government strategy to tackle online scams head-on. To back it up, the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (MDES) has launched the Anti-Online Scam Operation Centre (AOC). This new body will act swiftly to freeze bank accounts linked to fraudulent activities and help victims recover their money faster. The regulation itself tightens the screws on COD services. From now on, delivery companies must include key details on packages, like the sender’s information, tracking numbers, and a description of the item. To add another layer of protection, the government is introducing a five-day payment hold. This grace period gives buyers time to inspect their purchases and request refunds if something’s amiss. Kicking off today, October 3, the Dee-Delivery regulation promises to give scammers a run for their money and make online shopping safer for everyone, reported Pattaya Mail. “This is a critical step towards consumer protection in e-commerce.” By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-03

Thailand’s Bold Move: Decriminalising Sex Work Sparks National Debate File photo for reference only Thailand's Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, is causing a stir with a proposal to develop an entertainment complex that would bring underground businesses, including sex work, into the formal economy. This initiative aims to boost government revenue through taxation, funding crucial welfare programmes in education, public health, and infrastructure. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339668-thailand’s-bold-move-decriminalising-sex-work-sparks-national-debate/

Thailand's Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, is causing a stir with a proposal to develop an entertainment complex that would bring underground businesses, including sex work, into the formal economy. This initiative aims to boost government revenue through taxation, funding crucial welfare programmes in education, public health, and infrastructure. Surang Janyam, director of SWING, an organisation advocating for sex workers' rights, underscores the importance of decriminalising sex work. "During Covid, many sex workers were left without compensation or welfare. Over 50% of the 500 sex workers we spoke to expressed a desire to be part of the labour system and pay taxes." Brothel owners also support the plan, citing protection from extortion and illicit payments as key benefits. In Pattaya, focus groups revealed unanimous backing for the proposal, with local businesses ready to comply with taxation for legal protections. However, Surang clarifies that the goal is decriminalisation, not legalisation, aiming to abolish laws criminalising the profession. Critics fear potential increases in child exploitation and trafficking. Surang counters that existing laws can address these issues and stresses that participation should be voluntary, allowing freelance workers to operate as small business owners. Public perception remains a major obstacle, with moralistic debates often overshadowing economic arguments. Surang argues that economic realities should take precedence over subjective morality. "People need jobs and income. Morality is just an excuse to avoid tackling the real problem," she concludes. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-02

Thai sex workers rally at Parliament for protection act Photo via ThaiRath Thai sex workers protested outside Parliament today, October 2, to follow up on a protection act proposal in Thailand. This marked the third protest on the matter. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339667-thai-sex-workers-rally-at-parliament-for-protection-act/

Thai sex workers protested outside Parliament today, October 2, to follow up on a protection act proposal in Thailand. This marked the third protest on the matter. Workers from entertainment venues, massage parlours, karaoke venues, go-go bars, as well as freelance sex workers and members of the Empower Foundation, hosted the event called “I come to demand my laws. Sex work is work.” Each protester was seen holding signs with various messages calling for their rights and equality. The messages on the signs stated… “Laws protect workers in every industry, except us.” “Blacklist for 100 years, for who? It’s for us.” “Sex workers really exist. Stop acting like we are absent.” “New laws to protect everyone in the entertainment industry. No more illegal prostitution. Not only help us but help everyone.” “We are working to take care of our families but all we get are imprisonment and fines.” “Victims are not the same as workers who willingly offer sex services. Stop the stereotype.” The group also placed a turtle sculpture with its mouth taped shut outside Parliament to symbolise how the protection of sex workers and other workers in the nightlife industry is progressing very slowly. They submitted a formal request to Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and a representative came to receive the letter on the sex workers’ behalf. This marked the third time the sex worker group has come forward to seek justice and equal treatment, like other workers. They expressed that they did not want to protest a fourth time, hoping the laws would come into effect soon. The Department of Women’s Affairs and Family Development, which oversees the legislation, told ThaiRath that the laws were on hold due to changes in the government committee. The department promised to follow up on the legislation for the protest group. In a related report, PM Paetongtarn sparked controversy with her plan to develop an entertainment complex that would allow sex workers to legally offer services and require them to pay taxes, just like other occupations. Some critics opposed the idea, arguing that legalising sex work could lead to child exploitation and trafficking. As a result, both the entertainment complex plan and the decriminalisation of sex work remain under debate. By Petch Petpailin Photo via ThaiRath Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-02

Thai School Bus Tragedy Claims Lives, Prompts Safety Overhaul Photo: The Pattaya News Bangkok, October 2, 2024 – A devastating bus fire near the Monument of Honor has claimed multiple lives, including students and teachers from Wat Khao Phraya School in Uthai Thani. With 23 people still missing, including 20 students and 3 teachers, the nation mourns the tragic incident that unfolded on Vibhavadi Road. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339544-school-bus-fire-claims-multiple-lives-and-injures-young-students-in-rangsit/?do=findComment&comment=19276877

Thai School Bus Tragedy Claims Lives, Prompts Safety Overhaul Bangkok, October 2, 2024 – A devastating bus fire near the Monument of Honor has claimed multiple lives, including students and teachers from Wat Khao Phraya School in Uthai Thani. With 23 people still missing, including 20 students and 3 teachers, the nation mourns the tragic incident that unfolded on Vibhavadi Road. The blaze, which consumed a 54-year-old bus, underscores severe safety lapses, prompting immediate governmental action. The deceased teachers—Ms. Pimthong Sombat, Ms. Saranya Homkasorn, and Ms. Kanokwan Sriporn—have been lauded for their courage and dedication, drawing widespread tributes online. In an urgent meeting chaired by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, along with Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit, crucial safety measures were announced. These include comprehensive inspections of all 13,426 CNG buses within 60 days and heightened safety protocols for non-regular buses. A focus will be placed on ensuring rented buses for school trips undergo rigorous checks. Future bus operations will see stricter regulations on vehicle age and condition, coupled with mandatory crisis response training for drivers and staff. In a bid to avert future tragedies, new legislation will enforce safety briefings, akin to those on flights, detailing emergency equipment use. Compensation for victims is set at 2.4 million baht per deceased person, combining insurance payouts and government funds. Severely injured individuals will receive 700,000 baht, while those with minor injuries will get 200,000 baht. Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin reported three individuals in ICU with severe burns, who are now receiving specialized ointment from China for treatment. Mental health teams are deployed to assist affected families and communities. This heart-wrenching incident has sparked a national call for improved safety measures, aiming to prevent such future tragedies and ensure the wellbeing of all passengers on Thai roads, reported The Pattaya News. Photo: The Pattaya News -- 2024-10-02

School Bus Fire Victims Identified Photo: Thai News Agency BANGKOK, Oct 2 (TNA) – Relatives of the 23 victims killed in Tuesday’s school bus fire in central Thailand gathered at the Institute of Forensic Medicine on Wednesday morning to claim the bodies of their loved ones. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339544-school-bus-fire-claims-multiple-lives-and-injures-young-students-in-rangsit/?do=findComment&comment=19276868

School Bus Fire Victims Identified BANGKOK, Oct 2 (TNA) – Relatives of the 23 victims killed in Tuesday’s school bus fire in central Thailand gathered at the Institute of Forensic Medicine on Wednesday morning to claim the bodies of their loved ones. Forensic officials began preparing coffins early in the day, planning the transportation of the remains back to Uthai Thani province. On the third floor, designated as a waiting area, grieving parents and guardians arrived to provide DNA samples for identification. Photo: Thai News Agency Full story: Thai News Agency -- 2024-10-02

Young victims of coach inferno returning home Photo: Thai PBS World Families of the victims of the fatal school coach fire have sought consultations with the psychologist team at the Police General Hospital. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339664-young-victims-of-coach-inferno-returning-home/

Families of the victims of the fatal school coach fire have sought consultations with the psychologist team at the Police General Hospital. The hospital’s Surgeon General, Pol Lt Gen Dr. Thaweesilp Vejvitarn, said that ten of the families have contacted the hospital’s psychologists so far, seeking advice on their grief over the deaths of their beloved family members. The doctor was speaking a day after 20 schoolchildren and three teachers from a school in Uthai Thani’s Lan Sak district perished when an inferno engulfed the coach in which they were travelling. They were on a trip to Nonthaburi province when the deadly accident occurred. Photo: Thai PBS World Full story: Thai PBS World -- 2024-10-02

Field trips don’t hurt students, poorly-maintained transport does : PM Photo: Thai PBS World Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has expressed disagreement with suspending educational field trips for students, saying that the measure does not solve the basic problem. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339663-field-trips-don’t-hurt-students-poorly-maintained-transport-does-pm/

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has expressed disagreement with suspending educational field trips for students, saying that the measure does not solve the basic problem. She said that such trips are not harmful to children and blamed poorly-maintained public transport for road accidents, adding that all transport used for educational field trips should be properly checked, especially for long journeys. The prime minister made the comments after the Education Ministry ordered the immediate suspension of all educational field trips by schools under its supervision, except for trips which are deemed necessary, and that the trips should be confined within the schools’ province. Meanwhile, Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit announced today that all the 13,000 plus public buses which use compressed natural gas (CNG) as fuel must be subjected to thorough checks within 60 days. Photo: Thai PBS World Full story: Thai PBS World -- 2024-10-02

Thon Buri Revamp: BMA to Boost Tourism Through Site Assessments File photo for reference only The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has launched an extensive evaluation of Thon Buri's historical sites to enhance tourism and support city development. Thaiwut Khankaew, director of BMA’s City Planning and Development Department, alongside consultancy firm A-Seven Corporation, have been surveying numerous communities and landmarks in Thon Buri. Their goal is to optimise land use potential and stimulate local economies. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339662-thon-buri-revamp-bma-to-boost-tourism-through-site-assessments/

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has launched an extensive evaluation of Thon Buri's historical sites to enhance tourism and support city development. Thaiwut Khankaew, director of BMA’s City Planning and Development Department, alongside consultancy firm A-Seven Corporation, have been surveying numerous communities and landmarks in Thon Buri. Their goal is to optimise land use potential and stimulate local economies. The survey covered key locations in Khlong San district, such as Wat Anongkharam, Goowatin Islam Mosque, Seyfee Mosque, the Guan Yu Shrine, and the Princess Mother Memorial Park. In the neighbouring Bangkok Noi district, sites like Wat Rakhang Khositaram were also included. “We gathered detailed information on social, cultural, economic, and physical features that might be influenced by our development plans,” Thaiwut explained. The team also examined public transport routes and identified issues like overcrowding and land encroachments. A-Seven Corporation is set to study land leases and the feasibility of creating a riverside walkway from the Kadi Chin area to Din Daeng Pier. Additionally, they will review the ownership of vacant plots along the Chao Phraya River, including one near Seyfee Mosque. City Hall has suggested building a bridge over the Chao Phraya River to connect the Lhong 1919 community mall with Sawasdee Pier. Furthermore, several public parks in Thon Buri are slated for landscape renovations. Thaiwut stated, “The BMA will use economic and social data to determine Thon Buri’s growth potential, aiming to add value to its historical areas.” File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-02

Bangkok Raid Unveils Contraband Goods in Chinese-Owned Minimarts File photo for reference only In a dramatic crackdown, police in Bangkok's Huai Khwang district have raided 10 Chinese-owned minimarts, responding to complaints about the sale of smuggled foreign goods. The operation, led by Vice Minister of Public Health Thanakrit Chit-areerat, marks a significant step in the Thai government's fight against contraband and unregistered products. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339661-bangkok-raid-unveils-contraband-goods-in-chinese-owned-minimarts/

In a dramatic crackdown, police in Bangkok's Huai Khwang district have raided 10 Chinese-owned minimarts, responding to complaints about the sale of smuggled foreign goods. The operation, led by Vice Minister of Public Health Thanakrit Chit-areerat, marks a significant step in the Thai government's fight against contraband and unregistered products. The Network for Thai Entrepreneur Protection initially raised the alarm, providing compelling evidence that the goods lacked both Thai language labelling and the necessary Food and Drug Administration (FDA) certification. This illegal practice has unfairly undercut local businesses by setting artificially low prices, making competition nearly impossible for legitimate operators. Known for its Chinese tourist and business presence, the Huai Khwang area has often attracted scrutiny. Yet, this raid highlights the broader issue: it’s not solely a matter of public health but an economic concern, with substantial sums of money allegedly being sent directly back to China, bypassing local economic circulation. “We won’t stop at malpractice against FDA regulations,” Thanakrit emphasised. “We will investigate further whether there is any money laundering involved. The issue is not just about health but also the economy.” While the results of this raid remain undisclosed, the government’s actions have set a precedent. Officials from the Department of Revenue and anti-money laundering units are expected to scrutinise the financial practices of these stores, ensuring thorough investigations. This operation coincides with another critical raid involving eleven Chinese supermarkets across four Bangkok districts, including Samphanthawong, Lak Si, Bueng Kum, and Huai Khwang, found selling products failing to meet legal safety standards. As authorities continue their crackdown on illegal practices, the message is clear: compliance with Thai laws is non-negotiable, and protective measures for both consumers and local businesses are strengthening. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-02

Thai School Cancels Field Trip After Tragic Bus Fire Incident File photo for reference only In response to an unforeseen tragedy, St. Anthony Bang Pa-in School in Ayutthaya has cancelled its field trip scheduled for October 9. This decision follows the devastating bus fire on October 1 that claimed the lives of 23 students and teachers from Wat Khao Phraya Sangkharam School. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339660-thai-school-cancels-field-trip-after-tragic-bus-fire-incident/

In response to an unforeseen tragedy, St. Anthony Bang Pa-in School in Ayutthaya has cancelled its field trip scheduled for October 9. This decision follows the devastating bus fire on October 1 that claimed the lives of 23 students and teachers from Wat Khao Phraya Sangkharam School. The fire broke out on a coach bus carrying 44 students and teachers during a field trip; 23 lives were lost, while three others were injured. This harrowing event has deeply unsettled not only Thailand but also garnered international attention, causing widespread panic among families with young children. Thai parents have taken to social media, urging schools to reconsider organising field trips, especially for primary school students. These concerned parents highlighted that this isn't an isolated incident. Past accidents include a 2019 bus crash in Prachin Buri with one fatality and 24 injuries, and another in Chumphon last year, injuring 25 students. Earlier this year, a similar incident in Pathum Thani resulted in 25 injuries. Acknowledging the gravity of the situation, St. Anthony Bang Pa-in School announced the trip cancellation on their Facebook page. The school stated, "The executives and teachers are aware of parents’ concerns and the safety of all students." They added that extracurricular activities would be adjusted, expressing gratitude towards parents and apologising for any inconvenience caused. Public opinion diverged on this issue. Some praised the school's swift action, while others argued that banning field trips isn't a solution. Critics, including People’s Party MP, Rukchanok Srinork, stressed the importance of addressing root causes like vehicle and driver safety rather than cancelling trips outright. Rukchanok highlighted the essential role of field trips in child development, especially for those who might not have other travel opportunities. Rukchanok called for stricter measures on vehicle inspections, driver health, and emergency preparedness education for students, urging authorities to scrutinise these aspects to prevent future tragedies. While St. Anthony Bang Pa-in School has led the way in cancelling its field trip, other institutions may follow suit as parental concerns about safety continue to grow. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-02

Clash Erupts Over Fishing at Sacred Thai Sanctuary File photo for reference only A major dispute has erupted at Wat Yan Sangwararam in Bang Lamung, Chon Buri, leading to a dramatic intervention by the Royal Thai Navy. On 27th September, a group of fishermen, defying the sacred status of the area, set up their rods within the temple grounds. The fishermen, notably teenagers, faced immediate action as navy officers confiscated their equipment. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339658-clash-erupts-over-fishing-at-sacred-thai-sanctuary/

Anutin Denies Influencing Senate on Referendum Rule Change File photo for reference only Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, rejected accusations yesterday, October 1, that his party swayed the Senate's vote to retain the double majority requirement for constitutional referendums. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339657-anutin-denies-influencing-senate-on-referendum-rule-change/

A major dispute has erupted at Wat Yan Sangwararam in Bang Lamung, Chon Buri, leading to a dramatic intervention by the Royal Thai Navy. On 27th September, a group of fishermen, defying the sacred status of the area, set up their rods within the temple grounds. The fishermen, notably teenagers, faced immediate action as navy officers confiscated their equipment. In an unexpected turn, the teenagers resisted, raising suspicions about potential backing from influential figures. This incident has drawn widespread attention, with many questioning the true origin of this unsanctioned fishing activity. Further complicating the situation, authorities discovered a middleman buying large quantities of fish from the sanctuary. This raises further questions about the scale of illegal fishing operations. Phra Khru Wimon Phawanathorn Wi Chantha Santipanno, the assistant abbot, addressed the issue yesterday, underscoring that the reservoir is part of a royal initiative by King Rama IX aimed at agricultural development, prohibiting fishing activities to safeguard the sanctuary. The abbot stressed the need for public cooperation to maintain the integrity of the sanctuary, urging individuals to cease illegal fishing and sales. Responding to public outcry, Bang Lamung District Chief Wikit Manarojkit ordered an immediate inspection. Although inspectors found no violations in the initial sweep, they acknowledged the community's concerns and pledged rapid, coordinated intervention to address the issue. Local residents and regular patrons of the sanctuary praised the officials for their decisive response. The authorities now face the complex task of upholding sanctuary regulations while considering the livelihood needs of the villagers. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-02