snoop1130

Minimum wage decision delayed after employer reps’ no-show Picture courtesy of Thairath The Wage Committee’s scheduled meeting was abruptly cancelled due to the absence of employer representatives, postponing the decision to raise the minimum wage to 400 baht set to take effect on October 1. Government and employee committee members were left waiting at the Ministry of Labour yesterday. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338418-minimum-wage-decision-delayed-after-employer-reps’-no-show/

The Wage Committee’s scheduled meeting was abruptly cancelled due to the absence of employer representatives, postponing the decision to raise the minimum wage to 400 baht set to take effect on October 1. Government and employee committee members were left waiting at the Ministry of Labour yesterday. Pairote Chotikasathien, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Labour and Chairman of the Wage Committee, presided over the 22nd Wage Committee’s 8th meeting for the year, intended to review the proposed minimum wage increase. The tripartite committee, composed of five representatives each from the government, employer, and employee sides, was supposed to deliberate on the wage adjustment according to the government’s policy. The new minimum wage of 400 baht (US$12) would apply to certain sectors nationwide. At the scheduled time of 1.30pm, only the government and employee representatives were present, while all five employer representatives were absent. The absent employer representatives included Supanan Plodhet, Natthakit Khetrakan, Atthayut Liyavanich, Naowarat Songsawatchai, and Chaiyan Jeruenchokthawi. An earlier meeting on September 9 revealed that 22 provinces, or 28.57% of all provinces, had chosen not to submit or had no interest in proposing an increase in the minimum wage. This meeting was part of the third review of minimum wage adjustments for the year. Eighteen provinces reached a unanimous decision to support the wage increase. These provinces include Kanchanaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Phetchaburi, Phatthalung, Krabi, Phang Nga, Narathiwat, Pattani, Nong Khai, Nong Bua Lamphu, Udon Thani, Mukdahan, Kalasin, Roi Et, Sisaket, Mae Hong Son, Nan, and Nakhon Sawan, reported KhaoSod. However, four provinces did not reach a unanimous decision. These provinces are Nonthaburi, Chaiyaphum, Buriram, and Lampang. By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Thairath Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-17

Thai Police Arrest Chinese Duo Using Signal Jammers to Steal Cars File photo for reference only In a dramatic turn of events, Thai police have arrested two Chinese nationals involved in a sophisticated gang targeting car owners using signal jammers. The suspects, 38-year-old Zhang Jin and 31-year-old Zheng Hong, were caught in the act at a motorway rest stop in Chachoengsao province. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338348-thai-police-arrest-chinese-duo-using-signal-jammers-to-steal-cars/

In a dramatic turn of events, Thai police have arrested two Chinese nationals involved in a sophisticated gang targeting car owners using signal jammers. The suspects, 38-year-old Zhang Jin and 31-year-old Zheng Hong, were caught in the act at a motorway rest stop in Chachoengsao province. The arrests were the result of a meticulous investigation into a spate of car thefts plaguing the area. Authorities had long suspected a Chinese gang behind the crimes, devising a strategy to capture the elusive culprits. The gang's modus operandi involved operating in pairs. One would distract the car owner while the other used a signal jammer to prevent the vehicle from locking. Once the coast was clear, they would proceed to steal any valuables left inside. During the arrest, police seized several pieces of equipment, including signal jammers and mobile phones, as well as a vehicle utilized by the suspects. A subsequent search of a condominium linked to the gang revealed ketamine, adding another layer to the criminal activities. While Zheng Hong confessed to the crimes, Zhang Jin maintained his innocence. Authorities believe this gang isn’t working in isolation but may have ties to an international call centre syndicate. Stolen credit cards were allegedly used for fraudulent purchases abroad, broadening the scope of their criminal enterprise. This arrest is a significant victory for Thai law enforcement, as it sends a clear message about their zero-tolerance stance on sophisticated criminal activities. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-16

Thailand wins gold at WorldSkills Lyon 2024 Photo: Thai PBS World Ariyaporn Limkamontip won the first gold medal for Thailand in the Health and Social Care category at the 47th WorldSkills competition in Lyon, France. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338345-thailand-wins-gold-at-worldskills-lyon-2024/

Ariyaporn Limkamontip won the first gold medal for Thailand in the Health and Social Care category at the 47th WorldSkills competition in Lyon, France. Ariyaporn, a fourth-year student in Ramathibodi School of Nursing, Mahidol University, won a gold medal, while silver medals went to Estéfany Mariana Marengoni from Brazil and Fatima Alhameli from the United Arab Emirates. The bronze was won by Xiaoan Zeng from China. Ariyaporn beat 19 international competitors, thanks to her background in nursing and her English skills. Photo: Thai PBS World Full story: Thai PBS -- 2024-09-16

Thailand Mourns as Heroic K9 Singto Passes at Age 11 File photo for reference only Thailand's K9 Urban Search and Rescue team is in mourning following the death of Singto, a Golden Retriever who served with unwavering dedication for 11 years. Singto, who had been battling cancer, passed away on September 15. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338344-thailand-mourns-as-heroic-k9-singto-passes-at-age-11/

Thailand's K9 Urban Search and Rescue team is in mourning following the death of Singto, a Golden Retriever who served with unwavering dedication for 11 years. Singto, who had been battling cancer, passed away on September 15. Despite his illness, Singto continued to show his indomitable spirit. Just three days before his death, he participated in promotional photo shoots and fundraising events, reflecting his commitment to the organisation. Alongkot Chukaew, his handler and the deputy director of K9 USAR Thailand, expressed deep sorrow at the passing of the dog he considered family. "I don’t have children and I raised K9 Singto as if he were my own," he shared. Singto's service was marked by acts of bravery and kindness. He often partnered with Alongkot during challenging missions, including diving in reservoirs to locate missing persons. Singto was also cherished by a group of visually impaired individuals who learned music alongside him, illustrating his gentle nature. A stalwart in both K9 USAR Thailand and the Environmental and Social Foundation, Singto's contributions were significant and far-reaching. His dedication and strength will be remembered and missed by many. Photo: Thai PBS World -- 2024-09-16

Northeast Flood Relief Accelerates as Water Levels Peak at 16-Year High File photo for reference only Government officials are rushing to improve water drainage in flood-ravaged northeastern provinces Nong Khai, Nakhon Phanom, and Bung Kan, Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul revealed today. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338343-northeast-flood-relief-accelerates-as-water-levels-peak-at-16-year-high/

Government officials are rushing to improve water drainage in flood-ravaged northeastern provinces Nong Khai, Nakhon Phanom, and Bung Kan, Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul revealed today. The 58-year-old Deputy PM stressed the urgency of diverting water into the Mekong River to reduce the impact of severe flooding, which has been intensified by water flowing from northern regions and upstream dam releases. The situation is dire in Nong Khai, where water levels hit a 16-year high of 13.8 metres, submerging the municipal office and breaching flood barriers at Phra That Lanong. With the local hospital only taking emergency cases and public transport disrupted, shelters have been established to aid affected residents. Meanwhile, Nakhon Phanom braces for a rise in the Mekong River, currently just 50 centimetres from the danger line, prompting evacuations of vendors and heightened apprehension over incoming rains. In Bung Kan, water levels have stabilised at 13.4 metres, offering a glimmer of hope if rains cease. Elsewhere, areas like Chiang Rai’s Mae Sai district report gradual improvements, despite damage wrought by mudslides and 10 fatalities since the flooding began on September 9. Officials are tirelessly working to enhance water drainage and support hard-hit communities, aiming to curtail further devastation in the region. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-16

Samyan Smart City buries cables to enhance energy solutions The Samyan Smart City project in central Bangkok is advancing, with significant efforts focused on relocating overhead power and communication cables underground, according to the Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA). Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338341-samyan-smart-city-buries-cables-to-enhance-energy-solutions/

The Samyan Smart City project in central Bangkok is advancing, with significant efforts focused on relocating overhead power and communication cables underground, according to the Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA). Last month, overhead cables along Chulalongkorn Soi 12 leading to Banthat Thong Road, and near the King Rama VI Monument close to Lumpini Park, were removed. This initiative aims to eliminate urban eyesores, as stated by Rachain Unwet, the assistant governor for distribution system service at MEA. The undertaking is a result of a collaboration between MEA and Chulalongkorn University that began in June 2019. Rachin noted that officials plan to enhance smart energy management in the area by improving the electricity supply, installing a battery energy storage system (BESS), and developing a smart grid. A BESS works alongside electricity generated by solar and wind power ensures a stable supply of electricity despite the intermittent nature of these renewable sources. The development of a smart grid in Samyan Smart City aims to better manage electricity production, sales, and consumption. This system will allow for the collection and analysis of consumer behaviour data. Samyan Smart City encompasses 1,153 rai of land bordered by Banthat Thong, Rama IV, Henri Dunant, and Rama I roads. The project’s development is overseen by Property Management of Chulalongkorn University (PMCU) and was initially funded in 2017 by the Energy Conservation Fund. This fund also supported other smart city projects, including Thammasat University’s Rangsit Campus in Pathum Thani. PMCU reported that rooftop solar panels were installed at a car park near Block 28 in Chulalongkorn Soi 5 as part of the smart energy development. BCPG, the renewable power generation arm of energy conglomerate Bangchak Corporation, was contracted to develop a district cooling system for the project, which helps save energy, according to Niwat Adirek, president and chief executive of BCPG. Samyan Smart City also promotes smart mobility by providing battery-operated shuttle buses for students and other individuals in the area, PMCU confirmed. A section of Chulalongkorn Soi 12 has also been beautified by burying overhead power and communication cables underground, reported Bangkok Post. By Ryan Turner Image courtesy of Samyan Smart City -- 2024-09-16

Urgent Mud Removal Underway in Post-Flood Chiang Rai File photo for reference only Floodwaters have receded from Chiang Rai, leaving layers of stubborn mud behind, reaching even rooftops in the hardest-hit areas. Speed is of the essence in the cleanup to prevent the mud from hardening. Sombat Boonngamanong of the Mirror Foundation has provided a practical ten-step guide to help residents tackle the daunting task of cleaning their flooded homes. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338340-urgent-mud-removal-underway-in-post-flood-chiang-rai/

Floodwaters have receded from Chiang Rai, leaving layers of stubborn mud behind, reaching even rooftops in the hardest-hit areas. Speed is of the essence in the cleanup to prevent the mud from hardening. Sombat Boonngamanong of the Mirror Foundation has provided a practical ten-step guide to help residents tackle the daunting task of cleaning their flooded homes. The initial step involves removing all movable items from the house. This not only facilitates cleaning but also avoids potential encounters with hidden venomous animals. Residents are advised to prepare large containers of water, using river water temporarily if tap water is not available. For effective mud removal, high-pressure water pumps are recommended, though electric versions should be avoided due to the risk of electric shocks. It's crucial to ensure the house’s main power supply is off and to verify that no electricity flows through the sockets. Due to shortages, rubber boots are vital, and those who've finished their cleaning are encouraged to donate their boots to neighbours in need. Emptying the house marks the next stage. Water and a squeegee are essential tools for clearing out the mud. For knee-deep or higher mud, shovels are not practical; instead, using fire trucks or large water tanks can help flush out the mud, particularly if the ground outside is lower than inside. Proper drainage channels must be prepared for this method to be effective. A thorough cleansing of the house involves using chlorine-based agents sparingly to prevent irritation. Cleaning should ideally begin from the upper floors, proceeding downwards, and from the inside of the house to the outside. Once the house is clean, all items returned inside need to be cleaned thoroughly as well. Sombat emphasised the importance of avoiding negative thoughts during this challenging period. Completing the task is more manageable and uplifting when done collectively with neighbours or friends. Volunteering to assist others can forge strong community ties, and such efforts are especially appreciated in difficult times. Since September 15, the Mirror Foundation has been coordinating volunteer efforts to help clean homes. Donations of essential items such as rubber boots, squeegees, shovels, hoes, large water containers, gloves, plastic sacks for flood debris, and water tanks over 60 litres are greatly appreciated to support these ongoing efforts. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-16

Thai Stocks Surge with New Government Policies: Investors Eye Mid-Caps File photo for reference only The Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) has surged by 6% this month, fuelled by the Pheu Thai-led administration’s progressive policies. Brokerage firm Bualuang Securities (BLS) revealed that a range of listed companies across various sectors are set to benefit significantly from these changes. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338339-thai-stocks-surge-with-new-government-policies-investors-eye-mid-caps/

The Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) has surged by 6% this month, fuelled by the Pheu Thai-led administration’s progressive policies. Brokerage firm Bualuang Securities (BLS) revealed that a range of listed companies across various sectors are set to benefit significantly from these changes. The new government initiatives include a 10,000-baht digital handout, debt restructuring, and substantial infrastructure investments. These measures are expected to drive up the Thai index and spark a frenzy of stock speculation. BLS is urging investors to focus on mid-cap stocks in sectors like retail, consumer goods, food, finance, construction, transport, tourism, and healthcare. Retail giants such as CPALL, CP Axtra (CPAXT), Berli Jucker (BJC), Home Product Center (HMPRO), and Dohome (DOHOME) are predicted to reap substantial benefits from the forthcoming digital wallet scheme. Beyond retail, the consumer, food, and finance sectors are also poised for gains. Companies like Carabao Group (CBG), Osotspa (OSP), and Ichitan Group (ICHI) are well-positioned to benefit. Financial institutions and asset management firms, including Krungthai Bank (KTB) and TMB Thanachart Bank (TTB), stand to gain from government-led debt restructuring efforts. The policy initiatives also include plans to cut electricity tariffs, expand fuel sources, and set a single price for electric trains. These are expected to boost companies like Gulf Energy Development (GULF) and Gunkul Engineering (GUNKUL). Transport sector leaders such as BTS Group Holdings (BTS) and Bangkok Expressway and Metro (BEM) are projected to benefit from an increase in infrastructure projects, spanning rail, road, air, and water transport. Tourism is another sector set for a boost, with policies aimed at easing visa processes and promoting major events. Key players like the Asset World Corp (AWC) and Erawan Group (ERW) are positioned to capitalise. Infrastructure plans further extend to firms stepping up in logistics and water management systems, such as Ch. Karnchang (CK) and Sino-Thai Engineering and Construction (STEC). The growing focus on modern agriculture and higher domestic sales could lead to gains for companies like Charoen Pokphand Foods (CPF). Finally, the medical sector is also expected to flourish, with companies like Bumrungrad Hospital (BH) coming into prominence under the new wellness hub policy. Investors are advised to stay alert and consider mid-cap stocks that align with the government's new policies for potentially lucrative opportunities. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-16

Hospital slip up swaps newborns, father demands 200,000 baht Image: KhaoSod A shocking incident of baby swapping at a hospital left a father devastated after discovering his newborn daughter had been switched with another baby. The hospital has admitted to the mistake, corrected its actions and has since scheduled a meeting to discuss compensation for the families involved. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338338-hospital-slip-up-swaps-newborns-father-demands-200000-baht/

A shocking incident of baby swapping at a hospital left a father devastated after discovering his newborn daughter had been switched with another baby. The hospital has admitted to the mistake, corrected its actions and has since scheduled a meeting to discuss compensation for the families involved. The father initially noticed the issue when his newborn daughter’s appearance seemed different after she was separated from the mother for medical reasons. The baby, who had been taken to the intensive care unit due to fast breathing, looked different from the photos taken before the hospital discharge. This prompted the father to demand blood and DNA tests, revealing that his daughter had indeed been swapped with a Burmese baby. The hospital has since issued an apology and offered special medical care rights. The incident’s details emerged yesterday, September 15, when the incident was reported on social media. The advisor to the Minister of Public Health, Thanakrit Jittareeyarat, confirmed the hospital’s error. The provincial public health officer of Samut Sakhon had already reported the matter, acknowledging it as a significant mistake. The hospital suspects the mix-up occurred during a routine examination. Today, the hospital arranged a meeting with the parents to discuss compensation, with the father demanding 200,000 baht in compensation to be shared with the Burmese family. This incident sparked outrage and concern about hospital procedures and patient safety. The hospital has apologised and promised to improve its protocols to prevent such errors in the future. The father’s distress over the situation highlights the severe emotional toll such mistakes can take on families. The scheduled meeting today aims to address the compensation and ensure both families receive the support they need. The hospital’s acknowledgement of the mistake and willingness to discuss compensation is a step towards resolution, but the emotional impact on the families involved remains significant, reported KhaoSod. By Ryan Turner Image: KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-16

Cash splash: Truck crash with 4.2 million baht, money still missing Image courtesy of KhaoSod A vehicle accident involving a pickup truck carrying 4.2 million baht in cash has led to a dispute and ongoing investigation into the missing money in Uthai Thani. The truck, driven by a local car broker, veered off the road and plunged into a pond near Wat Huai Khanang, located in the first village of Uthai Thani province. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338337-cash-splash-truck-crash-with-42-million-baht-money-still-missing/

A vehicle accident involving a pickup truck carrying 4.2 million baht in cash has led to a dispute and ongoing investigation into the missing money in Uthai Thani. The truck, driven by a local car broker, veered off the road and plunged into a pond near Wat Huai Khanang, located in the first village of Uthai Thani province. Rescuers and locals managed to recover 500,000 baht from the water but the remaining 3.7 million baht is still unaccounted for, raising concerns and suspicions from the owner of the money. Sawitree, a resident of Nakhon Sawan and owner of the cash, expressed her doubts about the broker’s claim that the remaining money had sunk to the bottom of the pond. She requested that the pond water be pumped out to verify if the remaining amount was indeed there. However, the pumping operation was stopped yesterday, September 15, due to a malfunction in the water pump. Today, police officers Phakhin Wannasri and Pojanat Ketkla from Nong Chang Police Station revisited the scene to further investigate the incident. Phakhin stated that no formal legal action had been taken yet, as no official complaint had been lodged. Both parties were expected to meet at Nong Chang Police Station to attempt a settlement, but no specific time had been set. The 500,000 baht recovered from the pond, along with the pickup truck involved in the accident, was set to be returned to the broker, Thongchai, once the investigation moves forward. Thongchai, who was expected to be discharged from Ban Rai Hospital, was anticipated to meet with investigative officers for further discussions. Sawitree had already started discussions with Thongchai regarding the responsibility for the missing 3.7 million baht. She indicated her willingness to negotiate and possibly accept the value of Thongchai’s assets as compensation, reported KhaoSod. The incident has drawn significant attention in the local community, with many speculating about the whereabouts of the missing money. The police continue to monitor the situation closely, awaiting the outcome of the negotiations between Sawitree and Thongchai. By Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-16

Cutting corners: Illegal barber snipped by cops on Koh Pha Ngan Image courtesy of KhaoSod Thai police recently apprehended an illegal Burmese national working as a barber in Koh Pha Ngan, earning nearly 50,000 baht monthly. The arrest took place following reports of foreign workers taking jobs from locals. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338335-cutting-corners-illegal-barber-snipped-by-cops-on-koh-pha-ngan/

Thai police recently apprehended an illegal Burmese national working as a barber in Koh Pha Ngan, earning nearly 50,000 baht monthly. The arrest took place following reports of foreign workers taking jobs from locals. Police Lieutenant Colonel Winij Boonchit received a tip about an unauthorised foreign worker and led a team to arrest 20 year old Wai Yan Kyaw at an unregistered residence in Koh Pha Ngan, Surat Thani. The officers confiscated a full set of barber tools. Kyaw faces charges of entering and staying in Thailand without permission and working without a valid work permit. He was handed over to Koh Pha Ngan police for further legal proceedings. Kyaw admitted to working as a barber for a year, primarily serving foreign and Burmese clients. He advertised his services in Burmese and English on the Facebook group ‘Koh Phangan Jobs’ under the name ‘Hair Cut Wai Yan Kyaw.’ Prices varied based on the hairstyle, starting at 300 baht. Kyaw moved locations based on client appointments, with clients covering fuel costs for the travel. His daily earnings ranged from 1,000 to 2,000 baht, amounting to a monthly income of 30,000 to 45,000 baht, depending on the number of customers. Kyaw confessed to entering Thailand illegally through Ranong province, paying a fee of 20,000 baht to an unidentified Thai individual for assistance, reported KhaoSod. By Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-16

Activist Mike Rayong leaves Thailand, citing safety and freedom Image: KhaoSod Mike Rayong, a Thai activist known formally as Panupong Jadnok, shared an emotional account of his decision to leave Thailand, primarily driven by a desire for safety and greater freedom. The activist expressed his pain at leaving behind his mother and homeland. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338334-activist-mike-rayong-leaves-thailand-citing-safety-and-freedom/

Mike Rayong, a Thai activist known formally as Panupong Jadnok, shared an emotional account of his decision to leave Thailand, primarily driven by a desire for safety and greater freedom. The activist expressed his pain at leaving behind his mother and homeland. Panupong took to Facebook to explain his heart-wrenching decision to leave his home country. He addressed his followers with a heartfelt message. “Hello to all my respected and beloved supporters. Today, I want to share with you the most difficult decision of my life: leaving my home, my family, and especially my beloved mother. This decision to leave the country did not come from a desire to abandon anything but out of necessity and hope for a safer life with more freedom.” The activist highlighted that his choice to emigrate was made after thorough and careful consideration, weighing the impact on his loved ones. He stressed that the decision was not due to personal weakness but a response to the unjust legal system in Thailand. “The thoughts and considerations were many but the realisation that the root cause of the impact was not from me but from an unjust judicial process that has oppressed us, causing many to lose their freedom and, in the worst cases, their lives.” Panupong’s post delved deeply into the emotional toll of leaving his mother behind. He described her as his most precious possession and the separation as indescribably painful. “I believe everyone understands that saying goodbye is never easy. Leaving Thailand was not because of weakness but due to the injustice, lack of safety, and restricted freedom I faced. The most painful part is leaving my mother, the last precious thing I have in life. This forced separation is beyond words, leaving only tears and a heavy heart.” Aims to return In his message, Panupong expressed a glimmer of hope, aiming to return and care for his mother in her final days or, at the very least, to build a better future that would ease her worries. “Despite the sadness and pain, I hold onto the hope that one day I can return to care for my mother in her final days. At the very least, I aim to create a better future to ease her worries and make her proud of her son’s journey.” Panupong also voiced his determination to advocate for political freedom and human rights. He hopes to be a voice for those oppressed by the political system in Thailand and to fight for the freedom of political prisoners, reported KhaoSod. “I also hope to be a voice for every fighter, to let the civilised world know about the oppression and restricted freedoms for political dissidents in Thailand. I demand freedom for those prosecuted for their differing opinions and all political prisoners, as a global citizen. With respect and heartfelt thanks, Panupong Jadnok.” By Ryan Turner Image: KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-16

Cluck’s up: Texas Chicken to fly the coop in Thailand after 9 years In a shock announcement, Texas Chicken has revealed that it will be shuttering all its outlets in Thailand by the end of this month, ending a nine-year run that has left fans of the crispy treat crestfallen. The bombshell was dropped on their official Facebook page, and there was no explanation for the abrupt exit. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338305-texas-chicken-bids-farewell-to-thailand/?do=findComment&comment=19237063