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Thailand Prepares for Historic Futsal Clash Against France File photo for reference only In Bukhara, Uzbekistan, this Friday (Sep 27), Thailand's national futsal team is gearing up for a significant round-of-16 contest against France in the FIFA Futsal World Cup. Under the leadership of coach Miguel Rodrigo, the Thai team aims to secure a historic quarter-final berth, buoyed by their recent triumph over Croatia during the group stage. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339068-thailand-prepares-for-historic-futsal-clash-against-france/

In Bukhara, Uzbekistan, this Friday (Sep 27), Thailand's national futsal team is gearing up for a significant round-of-16 contest against France in the FIFA Futsal World Cup. Under the leadership of coach Miguel Rodrigo, the Thai team aims to secure a historic quarter-final berth, buoyed by their recent triumph over Croatia during the group stage. Rodrigo has been diligently formulating a strategy to counteract France's formidable physicality and skill, traits they share with Croatia. The emphasis in the lead-up to this crucial match is on refining tactics and bolstering the team’s confidence. With just four days remaining, preparations are intensifying. Experienced player Itticha Praphaphan underlined the importance of a united team effort, particularly in defence, to face a French squad bolstered by talents from Spain's top futsal league. The Thai team is optimistic, recognising that a display akin to their last performance could pave the way to their first-ever quarter-final appearance in the World Cup. All eyes will be on Thailand come Friday, as the nation hopes to witness a momentous victory. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-25

Thai Baht's Strength Poses Economic Challenges: Economists Warn File photo for reference only The Thai Baht is experiencing considerable strength against the US dollar, but this financial trend is causing concern among Thai economists and exporters. Despite some benefits, the overall impact on Thailand's economy appears to be negative. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339067-thai-bahts-strength-poses-economic-challenges-economists-warn/

The Thai Baht is experiencing considerable strength against the US dollar, but this financial trend is causing concern among Thai economists and exporters. Despite some benefits, the overall impact on Thailand's economy appears to be negative. Dr. Naris Sathapholdeja, head of Data and Analytics at TMB Thanachart Bank, points out that a stronger baht makes Thai exports and tourism more costly. While it reduces the cost of importing oil—estimated at 1.5 trillion baht annually—this saving is overshadowed by potential losses in tourism revenue and export earnings, which collectively exceed 3.6 trillion baht per year. Naris forecasts the baht could strengthen to below 32 per USD, prompting exporters and tourism operators to urge government intervention. Dr. Amornthep Chawla of CIMB Thai Bank attributes the baht's rise to a weaker US dollar and inflows of capital into emerging markets. He highlights that the Bank of Thailand's decision not to cut the base rate is drawing investments into the Thai bond market, further bolstering the baht. Increased confidence in Thailand's economic policies and its status as a gold trading hub also contribute to the currency's appreciation. Kanchana Chokpaisarnsilp from Kasikorn Research Centre expects short-term fluctuations in the baht, ranging between 32.50 and 32.10 per USD. This financial climate is hitting Thai rice exports hard. Chukiat Opaswongse of the Thai Rice Exporters Association reveals a significant slowdown, with exports likely to reach only 8.5 million tonnes this year, down from earlier projections. Rivals such as India and Vietnam, with weaker currencies, are poised to benefit at Thailand's expense. The pressure is on as the economic effects of a strong baht ripple across Thailand, prompting calls for strategic financial measures to mitigate adverse impacts. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-25

Landslide Aftermath Haunts Phuket Community Photo: Thai News Agency PHUKET, Sept 24 (TNA) – August 23 marked one month since a devastating landslide from Nakkerd Hill buried homes and claimed 13 lives in the Karon district of Phuket. Residents and the affected area continue to bear the scars of this tragedy. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338998-landslide-aftermath-haunts-phuket-community/

PHUKET, Sept 24 (TNA) – August 23 marked one month since a devastating landslide from Nakkerd Hill buried homes and claimed 13 lives in the Karon district of Phuket. Residents and the affected area continue to bear the scars of this tragedy. Despite a month having passed, the trauma remains a haunting reality for residents, especially during heavy rainfall. Suthep Rodklaew, one of the victims whose home was destroyed, lost two family members in the disaster. Pointing at the remains of his home, he expressed uncertainty about how he would rebuild, as the government’s compensation of 20,000-30,000 baht is far from sufficient to cover the millions of baht needed for repairs. Many other homes in the affected area, including rental houses and luxury villas, remain abandoned and damaged. This is partly due to the frequent rainfall and the perception of the area as unsafe. Photo: Thai News Agency Full story: Thai News Agency -- 2024-09-24

Boy returns lost gold necklace worth hundreds of thousands of baht Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A nine year old student of Ban Khan Moo School in Phatthalung province, Thailand, returned a gold necklace with a sacred amulet worth hundreds of thousands of baht to its rightful owner after finding it in a market water gutter. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338997-boy-returns-lost-gold-necklace-worth-hundreds-of-thousands-of-baht/

A nine year old student of Ban Khan Moo School in Phatthalung province, Thailand, returned a gold necklace with a sacred amulet worth hundreds of thousands of baht to its rightful owner after finding it in a market water gutter. Yesterday, September 23, teachers, students, and parents of Ban Khan Moo School in Phatthalung gathered to commend Kris, a Primary 3 student, for his honesty and integrity. Kris found a gold necklace weighing 45 grammes and adorned with a Luang Pu Thuat amulet. He promptly returned it to the market owner, who then returned it to the owner of the lost item. Kris recounted how he discovered the necklace while shopping with his mother at Sai Yuan Market. He spotted the large gold chain and amulet in a water gutter near a fruit stall. He immediately picked it up and informed his mother, who then handed it over to the market owner to help find the rightful owner. “I was very happy to get my necklace and amulet back,” said the fruit stall owner, 37 year old Pla. She expressed immense relief and gratitude, explaining that she had no idea when or where she had lost the necklace. She only realised it was missing on September 16, and Kris found it on September 20. Pla had been searching for the necklace ever since she realised it was missing. She even prayed and made vows to sacred entities hoping for its return. Losing the necklace was bad enough but she was particularly distressed over the missing amulet, which held significant sentimental value. It was a family heirloom given to her by her late father, who had worn it since childhood. The school held a ceremony where Kris officially returned the 45 grammes gold necklace and the amulet to Pla. The event was filled with joy and admiration for Kris. Also present were Kris’s parents, Phromsorn and Khanittha, who have instilled in him a strong moral foundation, and teachers who have nurtured his good character, reported KhaoSod. Pla rewarded Kris with cash as a token of appreciation for his education fund. The school also presented Kris with a certificate of appreciation in front of his peers, highlighting his exemplary behaviour and encouraging other students to follow his example. By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-24

Pattaya Pier Canopy Project Pushed to Complete in Two Months Photo: The Pattaya News After missing the original March deadline, the contractor responsible for the Bali Hai Pier canopy project in Pattaya has committed to finalising construction within two months. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338996-pattaya-pier-canopy-project-pushed-to-complete-in-two-months/

After missing the original March deadline, the contractor responsible for the Bali Hai Pier canopy project in Pattaya has committed to finalising construction within two months. On 24th September, local reporters checked on the progress at the pier and discovered that the installation of the roof, ceiling, and lighting had accelerated. The contractor has segmented the installation into 100-metre sections, which has sped up progress significantly. They assured that barring any unforeseen challenges, the project should be finished in approximately two months. The canopy project, funded by an 8.8 million baht allocation from the Pattaya City Council, aims to provide shelter from the sun and rain for both tourists and residents. The construction has been ongoing alongside structural repairs beneath the pier. Initial delays led to the contractor missing the March deadline and incurring fines. Despite these setbacks, work continues on the canopy, which has a wave-like design fitting the coastal theme. The contractor remains optimistic about meeting the new deadline, hoping to soon offer a more comfortable experience for pier visitors, reported The Pattaya News. Photo: The Pattaya News -- 2024-09-24

Thailand to Launch SMS Alerts for Natural Disasters Next Year File photo for reference only The Government of Thailand has announced a new initiative to send SMS alerts for natural disasters, Digital Economy and Society Minister Prasert Chanthararuangthong revealed today. This move aims to keep the public informed and save lives by issuing timely warnings of impending threats. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338994-thailand-to-launch-sms-alerts-for-natural-disasters-next-year/

The Government of Thailand has announced a new initiative to send SMS alerts for natural disasters, Digital Economy and Society Minister Prasert Chanthararuangthong revealed today. This move aims to keep the public informed and save lives by issuing timely warnings of impending threats. During a crucial meeting held yesterday, attended by key stakeholders including the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department, the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD), mobile operators, and the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC), the plan was solidified. These agencies will collaborate to make the alert system as effective as possible. The warnings, to be issued under the aegis of the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department, will use information from specialised agencies. For instance, flooding alerts will come from the TMD, while landslide warnings will be managed by the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry. The alerts will have five levels of severity and will provide guidance on how to stay safe. Citing the recent floods in Chiang Rai, Minister Prasert stressed the critical nature of the system: "When disasters like these are predicted, swift warnings can save lives." To enhance the reach and effectiveness of these alerts, mobile operators have been instructed to expand their communication networks. Additionally, the Public Relations Department will broadcast the alerts on TV. By mid-next year, the NBTC plans to roll out a cell broadcast service that will directly send warnings to all mobile phones in the affected areas, bypassing the need for individual phone numbers. This initiative represents a significant step in disaster preparedness, ensuring that Thai citizens receive timely and potentially life-saving information. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-24

Environmental Crisis: Garbage Inundates Patong Beach Amid Monsoon Season File photo for reference only Patong Beach in Phuket has been engulfed by a sea of trash and plastic waste, as relentless monsoon rains batter the island's west coast. On Sunday, 22nd September, an alarming amount of debris was discovered covering a large stretch of the beach, highlighting an ongoing and escalating environmental problem. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338992-environmental-crisis-garbage-inundates-patong-beach-amid-monsoon-season/

Patong Beach in Phuket has been engulfed by a sea of trash and plastic waste, as relentless monsoon rains batter the island's west coast. On Sunday, 22nd September, an alarming amount of debris was discovered covering a large stretch of the beach, highlighting an ongoing and escalating environmental problem. A long-term expatriate resident of Phuket recounted their experience, stating: "It had finally stopped raining and I went over the hill to enjoy the sunset, and this is what greeted me." They described the situation as "typical after a big storm," with trash frequently washing ashore. The expatriate noted that the level of waste echoed scenes from the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic when beach cleanups were sparse. Observing the extensive littering, they shared, "We see this in the news all the time, but you never truly appreciate it until you see it like this yourself." Traditionally known for its swift cleanup responses, Patong Municipality has yet to detail the extent of the debris or announce any immediate cleanup plans. The expat highlighted a striking proportion of discarded food containers, speculating that waste is sourced both from local land activities and maritime operations in the Malacca Strait. "People need to be more aware of what they do with their waste," the expat urged. They stressed the environmental impact, pointing out how plastic waste, if not promptly cleared, breaks down and perpetuates marine pollution, visibly staining the beach. This incident underscores the urgent need for effective waste management and public awareness initiatives to prevent such environmental degradation in the future. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-24

Man Arrested in Sisaket for Selling Illegal Kratom Drinks to Students File photo for reference only In a decisive operation in Sisaket, local police arrested a man suspected of illegally selling kratom-infused drinks to students. The arrest, made on a road in the Nong Wa subdistrict, Benchalak district, followed intense local complaints and led to the seizure of critical evidence: eight bottles of kratom tea, 16 bottles of cough syrup, and a boiling pot. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338991-man-arrested-in-sisaket-for-selling-illegal-kratom-drinks-to-students/

In a decisive operation in Sisaket, local police arrested a man suspected of illegally selling kratom-infused drinks to students. The arrest, made on a road in the Nong Wa subdistrict, Benchalak district, followed intense local complaints and led to the seizure of critical evidence: eight bottles of kratom tea, 16 bottles of cough syrup, and a boiling pot. District Chief Thanadet Phra-arak ordered the crackdown, directing Deputy District Chief Supoj Chaikuchin alongside the 18th Benchalak Volunteer Defense Corps and local police officials. The operation was spearheaded by Police Lieutenant Colonels Thaniya Boonyarangkuan and Mukda Metipanyakul. Local authorities had received numerous complaints about a suspect peddling kratom tea to students. In response, officers meticulously investigated, culminating in the apprehension. The suspect now faces severe charges, including selling kratom tea without a permit, distributing it to minors, and promoting its use mixed with other psychoactive substances among young people. The confiscated items and the suspect have been handed over to investigators as legal proceedings commence, highlighting the region's stringent approach to illegal substance control and the protection of its youth. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-24

Thai Govt Tackles Soaring Pork Prices, Plans Domestic Solutions File photo for reference only In response to public concerns over the high cost of pork, Thailand's Ministry of Commerce has announced measures to address the issue. Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan noted that domestic pork prices are significantly higher than imported pork, prompting the ministry to act. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338990-thai-govt-tackles-soaring-pork-prices-plans-domestic-solutions/

In response to public concerns over the high cost of pork, Thailand's Ministry of Commerce has announced measures to address the issue. Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan noted that domestic pork prices are significantly higher than imported pork, prompting the ministry to act. The Ministry of Commerce has tasked the Internal Trade Department with collaborating with various agencies to find solutions. The objective is to make the pork pricing chain fairer for consumers. Ministry spokesperson Witthaya Maneenate stated that importing pork is not currently part of the plan. The focus remains on resolving domestic issues so that the public does not bear the burden of high pork prices. The government is particularly worried about the high price structure within Thailand. Minister Pichai has directed an examination of the entire pork supply chain, including piglets’ costs, feed prices, and farming management practices. The goal is to enable all actors in the supply chain—producers, slaughterhouses, and processors—to reduce costs and improve competitiveness. With the average price of live pigs at 72.3 baht per kilogramme and domestic pork at 133.94 baht per kilogramme, the ministry aims to find cost-saving measures. These measures will then be reported to the minister to ensure swift action. The initiative aligns with growing public concerns over rising food costs, which have strained household budgets. By meticulously examining costs in pig farming and pork production, the government hopes to find sustainable solutions that benefit both producers and consumers. The overarching aim is to keep pork affordable for Thai consumers while maintaining efficient operations within the food supply chain. The ministry has also urged relevant agencies to quickly propose strategies to reduce production costs. It's essential that any savings are passed on to the public, easing the financial strain on households. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-24

Thai Government Faces Backlash Over Charter Amendment Proposal Photo: The Thaiger The Thai government is facing growing criticism over its proposed charter amendment, which opponents claim could weaken ethical standards for political officeholders. On September 23, PM Office Minister Chousak Sirinil defended the Pheu Thai Party's controversial revisions, insisting they would strengthen the constitution by clarifying ethical guidelines, not diminish them. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338988-thai-government-faces-backlash-over-charter-amendment-proposal/

The Thai government is facing growing criticism over its proposed charter amendment, which opponents claim could weaken ethical standards for political officeholders. On September 23, PM Office Minister Chousak Sirinil defended the Pheu Thai Party's controversial revisions, insisting they would strengthen the constitution by clarifying ethical guidelines, not diminish them. Chousak said, "The proposal doesn't eliminate ethical standards; it defines them to prevent issues with national governance." The changes are intended to prevent situations like the recent removal of former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, ousted by the Constitutional Court for appointing a convicted criminal as Cabinet minister. The proposed amendments focus on defining what constitutes a breach of ethics for political figures. Current laws demand politicians to be "evidently honest" and free from severe ethical violations. Pheu Thai Party leaders argue that the new clarifications will solidify these standards, but critics view it as a move to protect politicians' interests. Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai is set to discuss the proposal with coalition partners on October 1. Meanwhile, the Senate, led by figures like Senator Nantana Nantavaropas, is considering support if the amendments address current charter flaws. However, voices of dissent grow louder. Former Senator Somchai Swangkarn warned on Facebook that the changes could spark another political crisis, potentially aiding corrupt politicians rather than serving the public good. The political storm brewing over this issue promises to intensify as debates continue. Photo: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-24

Durian dispute turns deadly: Vendor kills couple over prime location Photo via DailyNews A 62 year old durian vendor killed a couple on a roadside in the Chana district of the southern province of Songkhla following a dispute over a prime location for their fruit stalls. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338986-durian-dispute-turns-deadly-vendor-kills-couple-over-prime-location/

A 62 year old durian vendor killed a couple on a roadside in the Chana district of the southern province of Songkhla following a dispute over a prime location for their fruit stalls. Officers from Chana Police Station were called to arrest the suspect, 62 year old durian vendor named Huan Saetan on Ratsarat Road yesterday, September 23. Upon arrival, officers found Huan standing at the scene with a .38 mm pistol and a knife in his hands. The severely injured couple, 64 year old Siti-airsor Amarn and 44 year old Arduenan Musaw, were rushed to hospital. Siti-airsor suffered multiple stab wounds across her body, while Arduenan had both gunshot and stab wounds. They later succumbed to their injuries in hospital. Huan told police that he killed the couple because they took over his prime location where he regularly sold durians. He asked them to move to another spot because he had been selling in this area first but the couple refused. They argued over the location many times before and Huan admitted to losing his temper this time. According to a Channel 3 report, CCTV footage captured the brutal murder from the beginning. The two parties were seen engaging in an argument before Huan pulled out the gun and shot Arduenan six times. The shooting led Siti-airsor to flee the scene to save her life. Huan followed her brandishing a knife and repeatedly stabbed her until she collapsed to the ground. Huan then returned to Arduenan, who was lying on the ground due to his injuries and stabbed him. Following the shocking incident, the municipal office and Chana Police Station announced a ban on street stalls along the footpath on Ratsarat Road to prevent similar incidents in the future. The legal proceedings against Huan have not yet been concluded. Police plan to question Huan in more detail before pressing charges. Huan’s family members told ThaiRath that he had a congenital disease but forced himself to work as a vendor to make a living. The dead couple had previously operated their stall in a market near the scene and later moved to the same spot as Huan, which angered him. By Petch Petpailin Photo via DailyNews Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-24

Thai man alleges police officer assault over Laotian bar girl Photo via 77 KaoDed A Thai man accused a police officer and his friends of physically assaulting him over a Laotian bar girl in the Isaan province of Sa Kaeo on Saturday, September 21. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338985-thai-man-alleges-police-officer-assault-over-laotian-bar-girl/

A Thai man accused a police officer and his friends of physically assaulting him over a Laotian bar girl in the Isaan province of Sa Kaeo on Saturday, September 21. The 40 year old Thai man, Sarawut, asked Channel 7 to help him seek justice, claiming he was assaulted by a police officer and his two friends at around 2am on Saturday outside a karaoke bar on Sa Kaeo-Chantaburi Road in Sa Kaeo province. Sarawut explained that the karaoke bar was owned by a community leader in the province. The bar always opened late but the owner had never faced any punishment due to his influence in the area. Moreover, many Laotian nationals worked at the bar and there were suspicions regarding their work permits. Sarawut stated that he visited the karaoke bar with another friend and they were enjoying singing together. While singing and drinking alcohol, Sarawut also flirted with a Laotian bar girl who was working at the cashier counter that night. Subsequently, a group of suspects arrived at the bar, including a police sergeant major and his friends. The officer complained to the bar staff about why they allowed Sarawut and his friend to use the karaoke service until very late, at 2am. Consequently, Sarawut and his friend stopped singing. They were enjoying their drinks as usual when the police officer and his friends approached them. One of the suspects separated and restrained Sarawut’s friend while the police officer and another man punched Sarawut in the face. Sarawut’s friend managed to break free and intervene, causing the attackers to stop. The police officer then accused Sarawut of flirting with his girlfriend, the bar girl at the counter. “Don’t mess with me and my girlfriend!” Sarawut stated that he and his friend apologised to the police officer multiple times but the officer would not accept their apologies. They immediately rushed home and later reported the incident at Mueang Sa Kaeo Police Station the following day. However, Sarawut was worried that he would not receive justice because the security camera footage of the attack had been deleted. He was also concerned that the bar owner would side with the police officer, allowing the officer to escape punishment. As of now, there is no update on the case, and no relevant authorities have come forward to clarify the matter. By Petch Petpailin Photo via 77 KaoDed Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-24

Thailand delays minimum wage hike to 400 baht by two weeks Picture courtesy of Apichart Jinakul Thailand’s decision to delay the planned increase in the minimum wage to 400 baht per day will extend the wait by about two weeks, according to a senior labour official. This postponement, initially set for October 1, is due to the committee responsible for the hike not meeting quorum requirements in its recent sessions. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338984-thailand-delays-minimum-wage-hike-to-400-baht-by-two-weeks/