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Scores of people flocked to grab close-out bargains at Tang Hua Seng department store’s Thon Buri branch today, after reports went viral online that it would close for good tomorrow. However according to an announcement issued by the store on September 6 to employees and tenants, the branch will only suspend business temporarily, because the Metropolitan Electricity Authority will disconnect the electricity supply due to non-payment of the bill. The directors are currently in negotiation with potential new investors and will resume business as soon as the talks are completed. Photo: Thai PBS World Full story: Thai PBS World -- 2024-09-09 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Controversial Monk Somchai Defrocked Amid Local Tensions File photo for reference only At 8 am yesterday, a team of senior monks and Bang Bua Thong police volunteers responded to complaints regarding monk misconduct at a market in Nonthaburi. The monk, identified as 69-year-old Somchai, had been collecting alms regularly and causing disturbances. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337729-controversial-monk-somchai-defrocked-amid-local-tensions/

At 8 am yesterday, a team of senior monks and Bang Bua Thong police volunteers responded to complaints regarding monk misconduct at a market in Nonthaburi. The monk, identified as 69-year-old Somchai, had been collecting alms regularly and causing disturbances. Upon investigation, it emerged Somchai had been residing in a rented room within an Islamic community for over a year, having been evicted from a temple. He was accused of selling alms and engaging in confrontations with fellow monks, leading locals to report his behaviour. Somchai resisted initial questioning but eventually agreed to meet with the district’s chief monk at Lam Pho Temple. There, protests continued as Somchai argued he was officially certified and suffered from a mystical illness requiring unconventional healing. The senior monks presented evidence of multiple violations, leading to the decision to defrock him. Somchai resisted forcefully, resulting in a physical struggle before police volunteers could strip him of his monastic robes. Additionally, it was revealed Somchai often resided with young women and had a history of violence with other monks, cementing his expulsion. He has been taken into police custody, pending further legal actions should he attempt to impersonate a monk again. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-09 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Woman Delivers Baby on Bus from Khon Kaen to Phuket File photo for reference only In a surprising turn of events, a woman travelling on a bus from Khon Kaen to Phuket unexpectedly gave birth en route, with the assistance of a nurse who happened to be a fellow passenger. The remarkable incident unfolded today, September 9th, at approximately 8am near Klangdong in the Pak Chong district. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337728-woman-delivers-baby-on-bus-from-khon-kaen-to-phuket/

In a surprising turn of events, a woman travelling on a bus from Khon Kaen to Phuket unexpectedly gave birth en route, with the assistance of a nurse who happened to be a fellow passenger. The remarkable incident unfolded today, September 9th, at approximately 8am near Klangdong in the Pak Chong district. The drama began when Wiroj Srisang, Mayor of Simamokhon subdistrict, reported that Yaowalak, a 31-year-old mother of three from Khon Kaen province, went into labour on a Sombat Tour Co., Ltd. bus. She was on her way to Phuket for work without knowing she was pregnant. The rescue centre was promptly alerted to the situation by the Pak Chong Nana Hospital radio centre. Medical personnel were dispatched immediately to the scene. Onboard the bus, Yaowalak had initially taken a trip to the bathroom due to intense abdominal pain. To her disbelief, she realised she was in labour. Thankfully, nurses Sata Pornwilaiwan and Sasithorn Nakornphat, who were passengers travelling from Chumphon Hospital, assisted in the delivery. The rescue team arrived just in time to find Yaowalak and her newborn daughter both in good condition. The duo were taken to Pak Chong Nana Hospital for further care to ensure their well-being. Chanchai Yingnok, the bus driver, recounted the extraordinary occurrence happened on a bus carrying 19 passengers. The quick actions of the nurses on board and the swift response from the rescue team ensured the safety of both mother and baby. Post the incident, once confirmed all was well with the mother and child, the bus proceeded on its journey to Phuket. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-09 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai man condemned for using free cafe WiFi to watch porn - video Photo via Facebook/ Kiera Suttida The owner of a coffee shop in the central province of Lopburi condemned a pervy Thai man for using the cafe’s free WiFi to watch pornography and harass female customers. He reportedly spent long periods at the cafe without buying anything. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337727-thai-man-condemned-for-using-free-cafe-wifi-to-watch-porn-video/

The owner of a coffee shop in the central province of Lopburi condemned a pervy Thai man for using the cafe’s free WiFi to watch pornography and harass female customers. He reportedly spent long periods at the cafe without buying anything. The cafe owner shared a video of the man in a Facebook group for Lopburi residents on September 5. The man in the video appeared to be between 50 and 60 years old, dressed entirely in dark blue clothing. In the footage, he was seen watching porn on his mobile phone while inside the cafe. “Warning for everyone! I don’t mean to cause harm but what happened is completely inappropriate. It occurred today (September 5) at around 3pm. This man comes to the cafe every day for the free WiFi and never buys anything. “I hadn’t noticed him until today. He stayed for a very long time and there were many children present. This is a public place and our cafe is also located within a temple area. I have already warned him about his behaviour.” The owner shared another video showing her approaching the man and instructing him not to repeat his actions. She also noted that most of her customers were university students and children. According to the cafe owner, the man claimed that he did not intend to watch pornography in public. He said he scrolled through his social media feed and accidentally came across the video, which he then watched. The owner added that the man bought a drink for the first time on the day he was caught. The owner later revealed to Channel 7 that the man not only watched porn in the cafe but also sexually harassed female customers by staring at them. Many women in the comments section shared that they encountered this man before in other coffee shops in the area, although they did not provide specific details about his behaviour. The owner decided not to take legal action against the man but expressed hope that he would not repeat his actions, either in her cafe or elsewhere. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Kiera Suttida Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-09 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya City launches health project for night workers Image courtesy of The Pattaya News Pattaya City takes a significant stride in enhancing healthcare accessibility for night workers as Mayor Poramese Ngampiches inaugurated the Proactive Health Promotion Project for Night Workers yesterday, September 8. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337726-pattaya-city-launches-health-project-for-night-workers/

Pattaya City takes a significant stride in enhancing healthcare accessibility for night workers as Mayor Poramese Ngampiches inaugurated the Proactive Health Promotion Project for Night Workers yesterday, September 8. The launch event, held at Leela Club on Walking Street, gathered prominent city executives, including Nathamon Ajsong, Chairman of the Pattaya City Transformation Leaders, and Doctor Atthaporn Limpanyalert, Deputy Secretary-General of the National Health Security Office (NHSO). The initiative, a joint effort between Pattaya City and the NHSO, is designed to deliver crucial health promotion and prevention services to night workers over the next four months. Running from yesterday until December 20, the project aims to reach at least 5,000 individuals by visiting various locations across Pattaya City. Nathamon Ajsong emphasised the project’s goals, underscoring the critical need to make healthcare more accessible for night workers who often find it challenging to obtain medical services during regular hours. She explained that the project includes cervical cancer screenings using self-test kits, a measure that drastically reduces the necessity for hospital visits. Atthaporn pointed out the project’s alignment with the “Better Pattaya” policy, aimed at fostering sustainable tourism development. The initiative brings together government, public, and private sector network partners, creating a holistic approach to boosting public health in Pattaya. The project is set to cover a broad range of health services, including screenings and preventive care, tailored specifically to the needs of night workers. This demographic often faces unique health challenges due to irregular hours and limited access to traditional healthcare services, reported The Pattaya News. The choice of Leela Club on Walking Street as the launch venue underscores the project’s focus on reaching the heart of Pattaya’s nightlife industry. Walking Street, known for its vibrant nightlife, is home to many night workers who will benefit directly from this initiative. The project also includes educational components, aiming to raise awareness about health issues among night workers. By providing information and resources, the initiative seeks to empower individuals to take charge of their health proactively. By Ryan Turner Image courtesy of The Pattaya News Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-09 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Frenchman arrested in Krabi for eight-year visa overstay Image courtesy of KhaoSod A Frenchman was arrested in Krabi after a visa overstay of eight years. The Frenchman, Didier, entered Thailand on February 19, 2016, with a tourist visa that expired on May 18, 2016. After the visa’s expiration, Didier continued to stay in Thailand, resulting in a total overstay of 3,032 days. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337724-frenchman-arrested-in-krabi-for-eight-year-visa-overstay/

A Frenchman was arrested in Krabi after a visa overstay of eight years. The Frenchman, Didier, entered Thailand on February 19, 2016, with a tourist visa that expired on May 18, 2016. After the visa’s expiration, Didier continued to stay in Thailand, resulting in a total overstay of 3,032 days. Police were alerted on September 9 when Police Lieutenant General Itthipol Ittisarnronnachai, along with other senior officials, ordered an inspection of foreign workers to enforce the Immigration Act of 1979 and other relevant laws. The primary objective was to ensure public safety and maintain social order for both residents and tourists. Police Major General Songprod Sirisukha, along with his team, coordinated with the Krabi Immigration Office and local police to inspect accommodations and businesses employing foreigners. During these inspections, 65 year old Didier was found and questioned. Didier recounted that he initially arrived in Thailand on a tourist visa and entered through the Sadao Immigration checkpoint. He met a Thai woman and stayed with her in Bangkok. However, after their relationship ended, Didier found himself without employment or income. In search of a friend, he travelled from Bangkok to Krabi. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Upon verification, Didier’s visa overstay was confirmed, he had remained in the country far beyond his permitted stay. The officials charged him with overstaying his visa and promptly transferred him to the Krabi City Police Station for further legal proceedings, reported KhaoSod. The operation was part of a broader initiative led by senior immigration officers, aimed at cracking down on illegal foreign workers and ensuring compliance with Thai law. The enforcement efforts are in line with the Royal Ordinance on the Management of Foreign Workers of 2017 and the 1999 Act on Alien Business Operations. By Nattapong Westwood TOP Image courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-09 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya Tops Agoda’s List for Quick Weekend Escapes from Bangkok Photo: The Pattaya News Pattaya has emerged as the number one most-searched destination for a quick weekend getaway from Bangkok this August, according to Agoda. The travel site unveiled its list of top five nearby destinations, lauding Pattaya for its diverse attractions and convenience. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337532-pattaya-tops-agoda’s-list-for-quick-weekend-escapes-from-bangkok/

Pattaya has emerged as the number one most-searched destination for a quick weekend getaway from Bangkok this August, according to Agoda. The travel site unveiled its list of top five nearby destinations, lauding Pattaya for its diverse attractions and convenience. Located in Chonburi province, Pattaya is renowned not only for its vibrant beach parties but also for its array of activities suitable for both families and solo travellers. Visitors can enjoy the city's nightlife, unique architecture, and family-friendly spots. A highlight is Koh Larn, a serene island just a short boat ride away, ideal for sunbathing, snorkeling, and quiet retreats. Other top contenders include Khao Yai, famed for its lush landscapes and hiking trails, perfect for nature enthusiasts. Chonburi, with its scenic beaches and local culture at Bangsaen, and Rayong, a hotspot for water sports with attractions like Laem Yai Beach, also make the list. Rounding out the top five is Kanchanaburi, known for its historical sites and stunning waterfalls such as Erawan and Huai Mae Khamin. Each of these destinations offers a unique experience, making them perfect for a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of city life in Bangkok. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, these locations are within easy reach, providing the ideal getaway for weekend travellers, reported The Pattaya News. Photo: The Pattaya News -- 2024-09-06 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Cabinet Sworn In Today Photo: Thai News Agency BANGKOK, Sept 6 (TNA)- Thailand’s new Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and her cabinet posed for photographs at Government House on Friday before heading to the royal palace for their oath-taking ceremony. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337531-thai-cabinet-sworn-in-today/

BANGKOK, Sept 6 (TNA)- Thailand’s new Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and her cabinet posed for photographs at Government House on Friday before heading to the royal palace for their oath-taking ceremony. The newly appointed ministers, dressed in white uniforms, arrived at the Santi Maitri Building for individual photos, greeting waiting media with smiles. Key figures present included Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, and Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul. Photo: Thai News Agency Full story: Thai News Agency -- 2024-09-06 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Durians Remain a Top Choice in China Photo: Thai News Agency NANNING, Sept 6 (TNA) – Thai durians continue to be a top choice among Chinese consumers, according to the Thai Consul-General in Nanning. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337530-thai-durians-remain-a-top-choice-in-china/

NANNING, Sept 6 (TNA) – Thai durians continue to be a top choice among Chinese consumers, according to the Thai Consul-General in Nanning. Despite the lack of a direct land border, Thailand has been able to efficiently transport its agricultural products to China through border crossings in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, such as Youyiguan, utilizing neighboring countries like Laos and Vietnam. Currently, a total of 23 Thai fruits have successfully passed China’s stringent quality and safety assessments, making Thailand the largest exporter of fruits to China. Photo: Thai News Agency Full story: Thai News Agency -- 2024-09-06 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Phuket art festival: Thai dancers to take over Venice canals Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail In an unprecedented cultural spectacle, Thai dancers commandeered Venice’s iconic gondolas, leaving locals and tourists in awe as Phuket stakes its claim as the next global art hotspot. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337524-phuket-art-festival-thai-dancers-to-take-over-venice-canals/

In an unprecedented cultural spectacle, Thai dancers commandeered Venice’s iconic gondolas, leaving locals and tourists in awe as Phuket stakes its claim as the next global art hotspot. Thailand’s Office of Contemporary Art and Culture, under the Ministry of Culture, held a press conference in Venice, Italy, on Monday, September 2 to promote the Phuket Biennale 2025. Modelled after the illustrious Venice Biennale Art Exhibition, this international contemporary art festival promises to transform Phuket into a pulsating city of art. Scheduled from November 2025 to April 2026, the Phuket Biennale 2025 will feature works by over 60 Thai and international artists, displayed across various venues around the island. David Teh, the festival’s Artistic Director, unveiled the theme for this edition: Eternal [Kalpa], which delves into the sustainable relationship between humans and nature. The event aims not only to elevate Phuket’s artistic landscape but also to promote sustainable tourism in the province, already famed as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy and a world-renowned tourist destination. One of the press conference’s show-stopping moments was a Rong-Ngeng performance, a traditional dance from Thailand’s southern region, staged aboard a gondola navigating the Venetian canals. This mesmerising display symbolised the fusion of Phuket’s rich cultural heritage with contemporary artistic flair, captivating onlookers and igniting excitement for the forthcoming festival, reported Pattaya Mail. “We are thrilled to bring a piece of Thailand to Venice. This performance represents our commitment to blending tradition with modernity, much like what attendees can expect at the Phuket Biennale 2025.” By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-06 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Coastal Ship Relocation Marks Royal Vision in Chonburi Streets Photo: The Pattaya News In a remarkable event this morning, the Royal Thai Navy conducted the historic transfer of Coastal Patrol Ship T.99 through the streets of Chonburi. This rare spectacle, observed by many local residents, started from Juk Samet Pier and traversed over 10 kilometres to the Naval Fleet Command in Sattahip district. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337523-coastal-ship-relocation-marks-royal-vision-in-chonburi-streets/

In a remarkable event this morning, the Royal Thai Navy conducted the historic transfer of Coastal Patrol Ship T.99 through the streets of Chonburi. This rare spectacle, observed by many local residents, started from Juk Samet Pier and traversed over 10 kilometres to the Naval Fleet Command in Sattahip district. T.99 holds a special place in Thailand’s naval history, embodying the vision of His Majesty King Rama IX The Great for the nation’s self-sufficiency in shipbuilding. Commissioned on January 9th, 1988, and retired on October 1st, 2022, this vessel served the Royal Thai Navy dutifully for over 34 years. The transport highlighted a key chapter in the Royal Thai Navy’s history, with T.99 being one of nine vessels built from 1968 to 1987, aligning with King Rama IX’s Sufficiency Economy Philosophy. His inspiration stemmed from a visit to Germany in 1960, where he envisaged a self-reliant Thai naval force. Today’s event was not only a nod to the past but also a means to honour the King’s foresight and contributions to Thailand’s maritime security and shipbuilding autonomy. The journey along Sukhumvit Road offered locals a rare glimpse into a significant part of their national heritage, reflecting the enduring legacy of King Rama IX’s vision for self-reliance, reported The Pattaya News. Photo: The Pattaya News -- 2024-09-06 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand's newly-appointed Deputy Finance Minister, Julaphan Amornvivat, has announced significant progress in the country's Entertainment Complex (Casino) project. Following a series of comprehensive public hearings, over 80% of respondents expressed approval for the initiative, propelling it closer to realisation. The casino project, initially developed in Parliament, is poised to proceed to discussions among coalition parties. If consensus is achieved, it will then be submitted to the Cabinet and Parliament for further evaluation. This development underscores the Thai government's commitment to leveraging the booming tourism and entertainment sectors to boost the national economy. Julaphan highlighted the expertise within the new economic team, including Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira and Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul. Both bring substantial experience in capital markets, the private sector, and academic insights, promising a balanced approach to steering economic policies. Major initiatives in the pipeline include a digital wallet scheme, the creation of a financial hub, and the Vayupak Fund. “Our economic team is well-rounded, combining practical experience with academic knowledge to drive our initiatives forward,” Julaphan stated confidently. Meanwhile, the Tourism and Sports Minister, Sorawong Thienthong, expressed his vision for sustaining and growing Thailand's tourism sector. He plans to continue former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin's policies, especially regarding visa-free agreements and promoting domestic tourism to bolster the local economy. "We intend to maintain the momentum in tourism by extending visa-free agreements and encouraging local travel, which will significantly benefit our economy," said Sorawong. The Entertainment Complex Act, a keystone of this initiative, is currently in draft form and will undergo further scrutiny in a public hearing mandated by Section 77 of the constitution. This feedback is crucial before the bill proceeds to the Cabinet. The bill outlines stringent regulations for the casino industry, including a substantial licence fee, regular assessments, and specific entry restrictions. Key features include a 5 billion baht registration fee, an annual fee of 1 billion baht, and a significant entrance fee for Thai citizens. With a potential 30-year licence, renewable for up to another 10 years, this could be a long-term economic boon for Thailand. Proponents argue that these complexes will significantly bolster tourist spending, echoing successes seen in places like Macau and Las Vegas. The global business value of casino-based entertainment complexes was reported at US$1.5 trillion in 2022, with expectations to reach US$2.2 trillion by 2028. While the proposal is largely supported, it has faced criticism from opposition figures concerned about regulatory enforcement. As Thailand moves toward a potentially lucrative future in the global casino market, much hinges on meticulous planning and effective governance to ensure the initiative's success. With broad public support and a robust policy framework, the Entertainment Complex project is set to be a transformative venture for Thailand's economy. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-06 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand is gearing up for a major railway overhaul with nine projects worth a staggering 661 billion baht (US$19.7 billion) slated for Cabinet approval next month, confirmed Deputy Transport Minister Surapong Piyachote. Amongst these, the second phase of the Thai-Chinese high-speed train system, stretching 357 kilometres, holds a significant emphasis. The ambitious plan includes six double-track rail routes, demanding 298 billion baht (US$8.9 billion). These will span several key locations: Paknam Pho-Den Chai, Chumphon-Surat Thani, Thanon Chira Junction-Ubon Ratchathani, Hat Yai Junction-Padang Besar, and Denchai-Chiang Mai. Each of these developments aims to improve connectivity and reduce travel times within the country. In addition, two projects focus on expanding Bangkok’s Red Line system into suburban areas, earmarked at 21.6 billion baht (US$6.4 billion). This covers extensions to Rangsit-Thammasat University Rangsit Campus and Siriraj-Taling Chan-Salaya, enhancing commute options for university students and locales. A standout in this lineup is the second phase of the Thai-Chinese high-speed train system, projected to cost 341.3 billion baht (US$10 billion). This phase extends from Nakhon Ratchasima to Nong Khai, closing the gap on what will eventually be a high-speed rail link stretching from Bangkok towards China. Construction bids are expected later this year with completion targeted for late 2028. The initial phase from Bangkok to Nakhon Ratchasima began in late 2017 but has faced delays, currently standing at 34.9% completion as of July. Adding a grim note, a recent tragedy in Nakhon Ratchasima saw the collapse of a rail tunnel due to heavy rains, tragically claiming the lives of three workers from China and Myanmar. Meanwhile, promising news for international travellers emerged with the completion of a rail bridge over the Mekong River, linking Thailand and Laos and bringing the vision of a Bangkok to Beijing rail journey one step closer. These developments signal a transformative era for Thailand's rail infrastructure, with projects promising both domestic benefits and international connectivity. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-06 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Yesterday, September 5, saw heartfelt mourning as fans of the iconic 80s Thai rock band Carabao bid farewell to Chawalit Chalorngpong, affectionately known as Ko Carabao. Ko passed away peacefully, marking the end of an era for one of Thailand’s most influential music groups. The band's official page delivered the sombre news with a heartfelt message, sharing a touching picture and a note that read, “Deep condolences on the passing of Chawalit Chalorngpong (Ko Carabao). May Ko rest in peace and journey to a better place with love and sorrow.” Carabao, established in 1981 and forever shaping Thailand’s music landscape, remains beloved for their socially conscious and reflective songs. Led by National Artist Yuenyong Opakul, popularly known as Add, the band’s blend of rock, blues, and traditional Thai music captured the hearts of many across generations. Ko’s contributions to Carabao were immense, from his musical prowess to his humble, inspiring personality. His passing has left fans and fellow musicians deeply saddened, resonating throughout the Thai music community. Tributes have been pouring in since the announcement, highlighting Ko's integral role in Carabao’s enduring legacy. One fan echoed the collective sentiment: “Ko Carabao was an inspiration to many. His music and spirit will live on.” As the band’s vast discography, including hits like “Made in Thailand” and “Welcome to Thailand,” continues to inspire, Ko Carabao’s memory will be cherished forever. Photo: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-06 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

The Royal Thai Army (RTA) firmly denied allegations from the opposition People’s Party (PP) about overpricing mess trays during the national budget expenditure bill review. The PP claimed the army overspent on 10,000 mess trays, citing excessive budget allocations. Deputy RTA spokesperson Colonel Richa Suksuwanon clarified on September 5 that the trays, funded under the 2024 budget, are made from high-quality SUS 304 food-grade stainless steel, 0.8 millimetres thick, and used extensively. Col. Richa emphasised their durability and frequent usage, noting that each tray costs 520 baht, aligned with discounted rates from top brands like Zebra and Seagull. Countering the opposition, Col. Richa stated that cheaper alternatives, priced at 360 to 380 baht, are made from inferior stainless steel and are unsuitable for long-term use. He reassured that the contracted price was competitive and justified. PP list MP Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn critiqued the army’s expenditures, suggesting a 1.5 million baht reduction in the defence budget. He also questioned the licensing and procurement practices of the firm awarded the contract. The debate underscores ongoing tensions over defence spending, spotlighting the need for transparency and prudent financial management in public expenditures. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-06 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe