snoop1130

Bangkok Bank Public Company Limited (PCL) has made a generous donation exceeding 70 million baht to Siriraj Hospital, signalling its strong commitment to social responsibility and community support. This significant contribution unfolded through the innovative Bangkok Bank-Siriraj Card Project. On Mahidol Day, Pochanee Kongkalai, Executive Vice President of Customer Banking, proudly handed over a cheque for 70,315,053.39 baht to Professor Dr Apichat Asavamongkolkul, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at Siriraj Hospital. Also present were key figures from the bank, including Voranuch Siratharanont, VP of the Credit Card Marketing Department, and assistants Sirikun Chaiyasing and Narisa Laopanich. This initiative allows cardholders to turn their everyday spending into impactful contributions for patients at Siriraj Hospital. The project involves two principal cards: the B-First Smart TPN Siriraj Card and the Bangkok Bank Visa Platinum Siriraj Credit Card. For every medical expenditure made by cardholders at Siriraj Hospital, Bangkok Bank donates 0.2% per billing cycle. Additionally, the bank contributes 100 baht for each new B-First Smart TPN Siriraj Card application and 50 baht for annual renewals. Since its inception in 2015, the Bangkok Bank-Siriraj Card Project has successfully raised 548 million baht, highlighting Bangkok Bank’s pivotal role in supporting Thailand's healthcare sector. This effort aligns with the bank's longstanding mission to be a reliable companion to Thai society for over eighty years. Looking forward, Bangkok Bank remains dedicated to partnering with customers and the community to foster a healthier and brighter future for Thai society. This heartfelt contribution also honours His Royal Highness Prince Mahidol of Songkla, celebrated as the "Father of Modern Medicine in Thailand." File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-19

Market Assault by Creditor Raises Alarm in Udon Thani File photo for reference only In Udon Thani, a woman has reported her creditor for assaulting her in the middle of a bustling market, despite her claims of repaying a loan in full. The victim, 46-year-old Phanomphon from the Mueang district, has detailed a harrowing sequence of events culminating in a violent confrontation with her creditor's daughter. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338599-market-assault-by-creditor-raises-alarm-in-udon-thani/

In Udon Thani, a woman has reported her creditor for assaulting her in the middle of a bustling market, despite her claims of repaying a loan in full. The victim, 46-year-old Phanomphon from the Mueang district, has detailed a harrowing sequence of events culminating in a violent confrontation with her creditor's daughter. Phanomphon's ordeal began last year when she borrowed 40,000 baht from Nim, a tea seller at the local market, to cover her brother’s medical expenses. She repaid the loan, including interest, totalling 48,000 baht within five months. However, Nim asserted that an additional 40,000 baht in interest was still owed. When Phanomphon resisted converting this disputed interest into a new loan, Nim resorted to intimidation tactics. On September 16, Nim’s daughter assaulted Phanomphon in a public market, grabbing her hair and striking her forehead with a ring-covered hand, leaving a bleeding wound. Phanomphon was then coerced into signing a new loan agreement for the contested amount. Phanomphon declared, "Nim’s daughter threatened me, warning, ‘You wait for the court summons.’ When I affirmed I had cleared my debts, she attacked me. I fear for my safety and my children's because we live in the same market and face persistent threats." She has filed a complaint with Deputy Provincial Police Commander Chakat Tiamwong, who has assured her justice will be served. If the creditor is found guilty, legal actions will proceed accordingly. Phanomphon expressed her gratitude, "I am thankful to the Udon Thani police for their support in helping the community," she concluded, hopeful for a resolution and safe community. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-19

SRT Directed to Expedite Sino-Thai Railway Completion by 2025 File photo for reference only The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has been instructed to finalise the Sino-Thai high-speed railway project by the first quarter of next year. This directive, targeted at newly appointed SRT Director Veeris Ammarapala, was announced by Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338597-srt-directed-to-expedite-sino-thai-railway-completion-by-2024/

The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has been instructed to finalise the Sino-Thai high-speed railway project by the first quarter of next year. This directive, targeted at newly appointed SRT Director Veeris Ammarapala, was announced by Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit. Veeris, endorsed recently by the Cabinet, will present his policy framework to the SRT by early next month. His immediate tasks include tackling the SRT’s overwhelming 230-billion-baht debt and transitioning logistics transportation predominantly from road to rail, aligning with governmental preferences. Additionally, the SRT is tasked with expediting the selection of a private bidder for the 298-billion-baht second phase of the double-track railway project covering six routes. Another significant goal is to hasten the construction of the 356-kilometre Nakhon Ratchasima-Nong Khai section of the Sino-Thai high-speed railway, valued at 341.35 billion baht. This section's completion is targeted within the first quarter of next year, after which a private operator for the railway concession will be sought. “In 2025, Thailand and China will celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations. Therefore, the SRT must complete both phases of the Sino-Thai high-speed railway project swiftly,” emphasised Suriya. The first phase connects Bangkok to Nakhon Ratchasima over 250 kilometres, while the second phase includes the Nakhon Ratchasima-Nong Khai section. Both phases are scheduled to be operational by 2028, enhancing Thailand's rail infrastructure significantly. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-19

Thai Court Seizes Millions from Corrupt Official Over Unexplained Wealth Photo: The Thaiger In a significant move targeting corruption, the Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases Region 3 has ordered the confiscation of assets worth 5.1 million baht from a Public Warehouse Organisation (PWO) official. This ruling was announced by the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) yesterday. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338596-thai-court-seizes-millions-from-corrupt-official-over-unexplained-wealth/

In a significant move targeting corruption, the Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases Region 3 has ordered the confiscation of assets worth 5.1 million baht from a Public Warehouse Organisation (PWO) official. This ruling was announced by the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) yesterday. The court's decision on 28 March directed the confiscation of funds in two accounts held by Sarot Sutthiwong. According to Niwatchai Kasemmongkol, NACC Secretary-General and spokesperson, the investigation into Sarot's unusual wealth began after substantial evidence suggested his involvement in illicit gain. Sarot, who served as head of the warehouses owned by TSTE Plc from February 2003 to March 2004, could not sufficiently explain the source of his wealth. The NACC's inquiry not only highlighted this discrepancy but also uncovered Sarot's dereliction of duty in inspecting rice stocks under the government's contentious rice-pledging scheme. Niwatchai stated, "If the remaining funds in Sarot’s accounts are insufficient to meet the court's confiscation order, legal authorities have 10 years to track down and seize other assets to enforce the decision." This case marks a crucial step in Thailand's ongoing efforts to combat corruption and hold officials accountable for misconduct. Photo: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-19

Psychiatric patient escapes hospital, steals two bikes in Lopburi Picture courtesy of workpointnews A psychiatric patient caused quite a stir by escaping from a hospital and stealing two motorcycles, fleeing across four districts to reach his mother’s home. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338595-psychiatric-patient-escapes-hospital-steals-two-bikes-in-lopburi/

A psychiatric patient caused quite a stir by escaping from a hospital and stealing two motorcycles, fleeing across four districts to reach his mother’s home. Police from Ban Mi district in Lopburi received a report from Chakkrit Namkhot, who said his red Honda Dream motorcycle, with the registration 1กน 946 Lopburi, was stolen while he was eating at a restaurant in Ban Mi market. The suspect, dressed in hospital attire, quickly rode off with the vehicle. Shortly after, hospital staff informed the police that a 31 year old male psychiatric patient had escaped from Ban Mi Hospital. Reviewing CCTV footage, the police identified the suspect fleeing the hospital at 12.54pm, yesterday, September 18, and stealing Chakkrit’s motorcycle two minutes later. Despite efforts to locate the suspect, with an alert sent to nearby police stations, he remained at large. The last sighting on CCTV showed him in Moo 7, Bang Kapi subdistrict, Ban Mi district, Lopburi. At around 2.05pm, a resident of Moo 7, Bang Kapi, named Aumnat, reported to the village headman that his red Honda Wave motorcycle, without a license plate, was stolen. He had left the key in the ignition near an irrigation canal in a field. Interestingly, the stolen motorcycle was replaced by another, the same one reported missing earlier by Chakkrit. Police were perplexed as the first stolen bike was new and had a full tank of petrol, while the second was old with little fuel. They could not fathom the suspect’s motives. The police continued their search, coordinating with officers in Khok Charoen District, anticipating the suspect might head to his home there. Finally, at 1.07pm, CCTV footage from the route between Ban Mi and Khok Samrong showed the suspect riding the stolen motorcycle towards Nong Mueang district before disappearing into Khok Samrong. Later, a tip-off led the police to a house with no number in Moo 7, Khok Saem San subdistrict, Khok Charoen district, where the suspect was hiding. Identified as 31 year old Golf, he had changed out of his hospital attire and donned local clothes, hitchhiking to reach his mother’s home, reported KhaoSod. As the police apprehended Golf, they discovered he had hidden his hospital clothes and was attempting to blend in with the locals to evade capture. By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of workpointnews Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-19

Cyber police arrest influencer for selling explicit videos online Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Cyber police raided an apartment in the Pinklao area, arresting a well-known transgender woman with over 600,000 followers for filming explicit videos with men and selling them on social media, earning 200,000 baht per month. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338594-cyber-police-arrest-influencer-for-selling-explicit-videos-online/

Cyber police raided an apartment in the Pinklao area, arresting a well-known transgender woman with over 600,000 followers for filming explicit videos with men and selling them on social media, earning 200,000 baht per month. The operation took place yesterday following an order from Police Lieutenant General Worawat Watnakornbancha, head of the Cybercrime Investigation Bureau (CCIB). Police Major General Nipon Boonkerd, along with Police Colonel Torsak Panklinputh, led the raid with a search warrant issued by the Taling Chan Criminal Court dated the day before. The team searched the apartment and arrested 30 year old Wisut on charges related to producing and distributing obscene materials for commercial purposes. Cyber police intensified their crackdown on human trafficking cases, focusing on social media platforms. During their investigation, officers from the 4th Division of the CCIB discovered a Twitter account belonging to a popular transgender woman with over 600,000 followers. The account was used to arrange and sell explicit videos on the X application. Samples of these videos were posted, prompting followers to pay to join a private group where they could view the full content. Further investigation revealed that the account owner, Wisut, had been filming and selling pornographic videos for over three years. He resided in the Pinklao area, prompting police to seek a search warrant and proceed with the raid. The police confiscated several items, including an iPhone, an iPad used for filming and editing the videos, lamps, and lingerie used in the videos. During questioning, Wisut admitted to arranging and filming explicit videos with various men, earning between 100,000 and 200,000 baht (US$3,000 and 6,000) per month. Some men agreed to be filmed for free, while others charged between 1,000 and 2,000 baht (US$30 and 60) per clip. Wisut would then edit and sell these videos through the private group on the X application, reported KhaoSod. The police have detained Wisut and handed him over to the investigators at the 4th Division of the CCIB for further legal proceedings. By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-19

Thailand to borrow 2.59 trillion baht for 2025 budget Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post The Government of Thailand announced a borrowing plan of 2.59 trillion baht for the 2025 fiscal year, assuring that this will not hinder the private sector’s fundraising efforts, a Ministry of Finance official stated yesterday. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338592-thailand-to-borrow-259-trillion-baht-for-2025-budget/

The Government of Thailand announced a borrowing plan of 2.59 trillion baht for the 2025 fiscal year, assuring that this will not hinder the private sector’s fundraising efforts, a Ministry of Finance official stated yesterday. Jindarat Viriyataveekul, public debt adviser at the ministry, said the debt plan, which begins on October 1, should not cause concern in the markets. She explained that approximately 1.1 trillion baht (US$33 billion) would be new borrowing primarily to cover the budget deficit, with the remainder designated for refinancing and restructuring existing debt. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s administration is increasing the budget for the 2025 fiscal year to 3.75 trillion baht (US$113 billion), a 7% rise from 2024, aimed at stimulating economic growth. Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy is grappling with near-record-high household debt, weak exports, and a manufacturing sector under pressure from inexpensive imports, mainly from China. The 2025 borrowing strategy includes 1.25 trillion baht (US$38 billion) in sovereign bonds, 140 billion baht (US$4 billion) through bond switching, 520 billion baht (US$16 billion) in Treasury bills, and 120 billion baht (US$3.6 billion) in savings bonds. The rest may be covered by promissory notes and term loans. Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira noted that public debt is projected to reach 66% of gross domestic product (GDP) by the end of September next year, assuming a 3% economic growth rate. This figure remains below the 70% legal ceiling but is an increase from 63.7% at the end of July 2024, Pichai said. “Officials hope to issue dollar-denominated bonds as part of the 2025 borrowing programme,” A plan to issue the first dollar-denominated debt in two decades earlier this year was abandoned due to unfavourable market conditions. Officials have forecast revenue of 2.88 trillion baht (US$87 billion) for the new fiscal year, resulting in a budget deficit of 865 billion baht (US$26 billion). Despite the higher deficit, 908 billion baht (US$27.4 billion) is allocated for investment, marking a 27.9% increase from the 2024 fiscal year, Pichai said. “152.7 billion baht (US$4.696 billion) of the budget is earmarked for the second phase of the digital wallet consumption stimulus handout.” The first phase, costing about 145 billion baht (US$4.4 billion), starts next week, reported Bangkok Post. Additionally, another 132 billion baht (US$4 billion) for the programme is expected to be sourced from the management of other budgets, including the central budget and unused funds from various agencies. By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-19

Thailand’s golden rice grain faces storm from strong baht and India Thailand’s rice exports are teetering on the edge of crisis with looming threats from a strong baht and potential policy changes in India. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338591-thailand’s-golden-rice-grain-faces-storm-from-strong-baht-and-india/

Thailand’s rice exports are teetering on the edge of crisis with looming threats from a strong baht and potential policy changes in India. The Thai Rice Exporters Association has cast a shadow over next year’s outlook, predicting exports might flop below the eight million tonnes mark. Chookiat Ophaswongse, the association’s honorary president, revealed the unsettling news despite unabated flooding wreaking havoc in the north and northeast. This year’s exports, however, seem to be riding the storm, with hopes still high of surpassing the 8.2 million tonnes annual target. Should monthly exports hover around 600,000 tonnes, the total might even spike to nine million tonnes. Enter Indonesia’s rice import agency, Bulog, which has been snapping up supplies through monthly tenders averaging about 450,000 tonnes. Yet, Thai rice has been struggling to hit the bullseye on tender prices, losing out to more wallet-friendly options from Vietnam, Myanmar, and Pakistan. Thanks to La Niña’s generous rainfall, these countries have ramped up rice production, flooding the global market with supply. Global rice prices India, eyeing a grand comeback, might resume exporting white rice in the fourth quarter of the year. This move is set to stoke the competition, likely driving global rice prices into a nosedive and dragging down domestic prices in Thailand, the association warns. The US Department of Agriculture’s crystal ball sees India reigning as the world’s top rice exporter by 2025 with a whopping 20 million tonnes on the move, with Thailand and Vietnam trailing far behind at 7.5 million each, and Pakistan at 5.6 million. The association cautions that 2025 could hit a sour note for Thailand. With India’s export resurgence and a robust baht squeezing the market, Thai rice exports might plummet to a meagre seven to 7.5 million tonnes. Deputy Commerce Minister Suchart Chomklin recently cracked open the Thai Rice Networking Forum 2024, a grand affair aimed at bolstering the local rice market and shoring up confidence amongst trading partners in Thailand’s rice policies. Despite the stormy forecast, Thailand’s rice exports have been on an upward swing. In the first seven months of 2024, the nation shipped out 5.68 million tonnes, marking a 22% year-on-year boom and raking in a handsome 132 billion baht, up 51% from the previous year. Bangkok Post reported the surge is fuelled by rice importers racing to fill their granaries in light of India’s export restrictions and the growing need for food security. By Bob Scott Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-19

Naval Ship Rescues 130 Stranded Tourists off Koh Racha Yai File photo for reference only In a dramatic operation today, a naval vessel from the Third Naval Area Command rescued 130 tourists stranded on Koh Racha Yai due to perilous sea conditions. High waves, reaching 3-4 meters, had thwarted their efforts to return to the mainland. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338529-naval-ship-rescues-130-stranded-tourists-off-koh-racha-yai/

In a dramatic operation today, a naval vessel from the Third Naval Area Command rescued 130 tourists stranded on Koh Racha Yai due to perilous sea conditions. High waves, reaching 3-4 meters, had thwarted their efforts to return to the mainland. The tourists, including many Chinese and Middle Eastern nationals, were assisted by Naval Ship 111, which responded promptly to the emergency. The initiative was overseen by Captain Pichet Songtan, Director of Information at the Thai Maritime Enforcement Command Center. He confirmed that the rescued individuals are expected to arrive in Phuket by around 4 PM. This timely response underscores the importance of naval readiness and international cooperation in ensuring the safety of tourists. With the tourists safely en route to Phuket, plans are underway to assist them in continuing their journeys back to their home countries, providing relief to their anxious families and friends. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-18

Thailand Braces for Tropical Storm Impact Tomorrow, 19th September Photo: The Pattaya News Thailand is once again preparing for a tropical storm, forecast to bring heavy rain, flash floods, and landslides to the Northeast region starting tomorrow, 19th September. The Thai Meteorological Department has issued severe weather warnings, citing a tropical depression over the South China Sea that is intensifying into a storm and heading towards Thailand. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338528-thailand-braces-for-tropical-storm-impact-tomorrow-19th-september/

Thailand is once again preparing for a tropical storm, forecast to bring heavy rain, flash floods, and landslides to the Northeast region starting tomorrow, 19th September. The Thai Meteorological Department has issued severe weather warnings, citing a tropical depression over the South China Sea that is intensifying into a storm and heading towards Thailand. Expected to initially impact the upper Northeast, the storm will usher in heavy rainfall and strong winds. This could create low-pressure systems affecting the northern, central, and eastern parts of the country. In the south, a robust southwest monsoon will elevate the risk of adverse weather conditions. Five northeastern provinces along the Mekong River—Bueng Kan, Nakhon Phanom, Mukdahan, Amnat Charoen, and Ubon Ratchathani—are under flood warnings due to rapidly rising water levels that could potentially cause the river to overflow. Already, parts of Nong Khai have experienced significant flooding, disrupting local business activities. Although the water level in Nakhon Phanom is still below critical, officials remain vigilant, preparing for possible floods as the storm progresses. Residents across the affected areas are urged to stay updated with the latest weather advisories, reported The Pattaya News. Photo: The Pattaya News -- 2024-09-18

Attorney General Orders Prosecution in Tak Bai Case Photo: TNA BANGKOK, Sept 18 (TNA) – Thailand’s Attorney General has ordered the prosecution of eight suspects, including vehicle controllers and drivers, in the 2004 Tak Bai incident that resulted in 78 deaths. The suspects face charges of joint murder. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338527-attorney-general-orders-prosecution-in-tak-bai-case/

BANGKOK, Sept 18 (TNA) – Thailand’s Attorney General has ordered the prosecution of eight suspects, including vehicle controllers and drivers, in the 2004 Tak Bai incident that resulted in 78 deaths. The suspects face charges of joint murder. The case stems from an October 25, 2004 protest in Tak Bai district, Narathiwat province, where authorities arrested protesters and transported them in military trucks to a nearby army camp. Photo: TNA Full story: Thai News Agency -- 2024-09-18

Fugitive Singaporean Drug Trafficking Suspect Arrested Photo: TNA BANGKOK, Sept 18 (TNA) – Thailand’s Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) has arrested a Singaporean national wanted for drug trafficking who had been living luxuriously in Thailand while evading arrest warrants. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338526-fugitive-singaporean-drug-trafficking-suspect-arrested/

BANGKOK, Sept 18 (TNA) – Thailand’s Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) has arrested a Singaporean national wanted for drug trafficking who had been living luxuriously in Thailand while evading arrest warrants. ONCB Secretary-General Phanurat Lakboon announced the arrest of Benny Kee Soon Chuan, a suspected key figure in transnational drug trafficking. Kee is accused of using Thailand as a transit point for smuggling drugs to Singapore and Australia. Primarily, the drugs involved were crystal meth (ice), ketamine, and ecstasy. Photo: TNA Full story: Thai News Agency -- 2024-09-18

Thai Funeral Practice of Lighting Cigarettes Sparks Online Debate File photo for reference only In a remarkable burst of online activity, a Thai man's query about an unusual funeral custom has ignited an extensive debate on social media. The man, posting anonymously on the Facebook page Knowledge Around, wondered about the significance of lighting cigarettes instead of incense sticks at funerals. The question posed on Monday, September 16, quickly went viral, attracting a surge of reactions from intrigued netizens. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338522-thai-funeral-practice-of-lighting-cigarettes-sparks-online-debate/

In a remarkable burst of online activity, a Thai man's query about an unusual funeral custom has ignited an extensive debate on social media. The man, posting anonymously on the Facebook page Knowledge Around, wondered about the significance of lighting cigarettes instead of incense sticks at funerals. The question posed on Monday, September 16, quickly went viral, attracting a surge of reactions from intrigued netizens. Most responses pointed towards a traditional belief: lighting cigarettes at funerals is often reserved for deceased smokers as a mark of respect, symbolising a final gesture to accompany them to the afterlife. One commenter noted, "Thailand has a mixed culture. Lighting cigarettes at funerals where the deceased was a smoker is akin to pouring alcohol on graves in Japanese or Western traditions." Another participant added, "It’s a way to honour the deceased in a manner that aligns with their personal beliefs. It’s fine as long as it doesn’t disturb others or violate social norms." Offering an international perspective, one individual remarked, "In Vietnam, they light cigarettes as offerings at deity statues. Both incense and cigarettes were placed together." While most discussions emphasised cultural significance, an intriguing comment suggested a futuristic angle: “Lighting cigarettes at funerals usually relates to specific cultural traditions, serving as a symbolic farewell tied to the deceased’s lifestyle." Amidst this heated discussion, the page also delved into other intriguing topics. A deep dive into funeral expenses in northeastern Thailand revealed that costs could soar up to 300,000 baht, with significant sums allocated to monks and funeral workers. Additionally, a nurse's warning against bringing bells to hospitals, based on a harrowing experience, highlighted prevalent superstitious beliefs in medical settings. These diverse discussions underscore Thailand's evolving cultural landscape, blending centuries-old traditions with contemporary influences. From unique funeral customs to superstitions in hospitals, these stories reflect the rich tapestry of Thai cultural expressions, offering a fascinating glimpse into the nation's complex societal norms. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-18