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Somying Buabut, a former Pheu Thai MP, has received a three-year and four months prison sentence—suspended for three years—and a 100,000 baht fine for her role in a corruption scandal linked to the construction of a futsal field. The Supreme Court's Criminal Division for Political Office Holders issued the verdict on September 5, as part of case number AM.18/2565. Buabut, along with 11 others, faced charges due to the misallocation of budgetary funds during the 2012 fiscal year meant for the Amnat Charoen province’s educational services. The funds were mishandled during the procurement process for building and equipping the sports field, which ultimately failed to meet standards. Key individuals implicated include Chinapat Bhumrat, former Secretary-General of the Basic Education Commission, and Adul Kongthong, former Director of the Amnat Charoen Primary Educational Service Area Office. Various companies and individuals were found to have manipulated the bidding process to secure government contracts improperly. The sentences ranged from suspended prison terms to hefty fines. Chinapat Bhumrat received a five-year sentence and a 150,000 baht fine, while other defendants, including corporate entities like TVN Technology Co., Ltd. and Sport and Game Co., Ltd., faced substantial penalties. Charges against Adul Kongthong, however, were dismissed. The court's ruling underscored the manipulation of the procurement process, showing a stark breach of trust and mismanagement of public funds intended to benefit community recreation facilities. Photo: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-06 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand has taken a monumental step to protect refugee children by fully embracing a crucial international convention. The country’s final reservation to the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) has officially been withdrawn, reinforcing its commitment to safeguarding children’s rights. H.E. Cherdchai Chaivaivid, Thailand’s Ambassador to the United Nations in New York, formally deposited the Instrument of Withdrawal to Article 22 with David Nanopoulos, Chief of the Treaty Section at the UN’s Office of Legal Affairs. The reservation withdrawal, which took effect on August 30, marks Thailand’s last reservation to the CRC, a convention it has been a part of since 1992. Thailand had previously placed reservations on certain aspects of the CRC but has gradually lifted these over the years. Article 22 focuses on the protection of children seeking refugee status or those already recognised as refugees, and this final withdrawal aligns with Thailand’s pledge during the 2nd Global Refugee Forum in Geneva in December last year. “Thailand’s commitment to upholding the rights of children, especially those most vulnerable, is unwavering. This action reaffirms our dedication to the best interests of all children, in line with national and international laws.” The move also demonstrates Thailand’s readiness to meet its international obligations and strengthens its stance on non-discrimination. Thailand remains a party to the Convention and all three of its Optional Protocols, setting a high standard for child rights on the global stage, reported Pattaya Mail. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtey of Pattaya Mail Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-06 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Airports of Thailand Ground Aviation Services (AOTGA) has inaugurated a new Customs Service Centre at Suvarnabhumi International Airport’s Free Zone 3, designed to boost Thailand’s logistics industry. Covering over 4,872 square metres and costing 150 million baht, this centre aims to streamline various transport and warehousing services. Sirivat Towachirakul, General Manager of AOTGA, announced the launch, highlighting its strategic importance in transforming Thailand into a regional logistics hub. He emphasised that the new centre integrates multiple transportation modes—land, rail, sea, and air—along with container consolidation and storage services, all under one roof. This will facilitate customs procedures, creating new business opportunities and supporting the growth of e-commerce. The centre is divided into two main service areas: the Fixed Area, and the Public Area. The Fixed Area is dedicated to private transport operators, including global giants like FedEx, DHL, and AGS. These companies will collaborate at the centre to provide streamlined customs services. In contrast, the Public Area will be managed by AOTGA, targeting domestic and international freight forwarders and express consignment operators. There’s a particular focus on air cargo, which has seen significant growth, leveraging Thailand’s strategic position as a hub for the CLMV countries (Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam) and its extensive aviation network connecting to Europe and other continents. AOTGA has introduced advanced innovations at the new centre, such as an E-lock System for tracking customs movements and an E-inventory system for inventory control. The company aims to generate 80 million baht in revenue for the fiscal year 2025 (October 2024 to September 2025), handling between 40,000 and 50,000 tonnes of cargo. Sirivat also provided an overview of AOTGA’s performance for the fiscal year 2023, reporting a total revenue of 2,700 million baht and a profit exceeding 500 million baht. The company offers comprehensive ground services and cleaning at six airports: Don Mueang, Phuket, Suvarnabhumi (partially), Hat Yai, Chiang Mai, and Mae Fah Luang in Chiang Rai. Looking ahead, AOTGA expects to increase its revenue to 3,000 million baht in 2024 and to 3,800 to 3,900 million baht in 2025. The company plans to bid for additional ground services and warehousing contracts at Suvarnabhumi Airport. If successful, Sirivat anticipates investing over 1,000 million baht in new equipment and technology, potentially doubling its revenue, reported KhaoSod. “This collaboration marks a significant milestone that will revolutionise Thailand’s logistics industry like never before, aligning with the government’s policy to elevate Thailand as the true logistics centre of the region.” By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of TAT Newsroom Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-06 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Rising prices of fresh vegetables and fruit, influenced by flood-damaged production areas, have driven up inflation by 0.35% in August. Director-General of the Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO), Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, reported that headline inflation in August saw a 0.35% year-on-year increase. The surge in food prices, particularly fresh vegetables and fruit, was primarily due to flooding in agricultural regions, which reduced crop yields. Additionally, the costs of rice, glutinous rice, and ready-to-eat meals have also risen. The consumer price index (CPI) for August showed a 0.07% month-on-month increase, with a notable 0.79% rise in the food and non-alcoholic beverages category. Over the past eight months, the average CPI climbed by 0.15% year-on-year. Core inflation, which excludes fresh food and energy, grew by 0.62% year-on-year. For the first eight months of the year, core inflation averaged 0.44%. Looking ahead to September, the TPSO expects headline inflation to rise, driven by three main factors. Firstly, the price ceiling for diesel is now 33.00 baht (US$1) per litre, higher than the same period last year due to the termination of government support measures. Secondly, continued flooding impacts have led to increased prices for fresh vegetables and fruit, although this is anticipated to be a short-term effect. Thirdly, geopolitical conflicts may cause uncertainty in key commodity prices and increase freight and shipping costs. August inflation Poonpong noted that certain factors might help temper inflation. For instance, government measures have led to a year-on-year decline in electricity prices. Additionally, heightened competition among large-scale wholesale and retail traders could also play a role. The growth of e-commerce is another mitigating factor, promoting trade policies that include continuous price reductions. Furthermore, Poonpong highlighted that the base price of Dubai crude oil in 2023 was higher than the current price, with oil prices slowly recovering due to sluggish global economic growth. “The digital wallet scheme will not increase inflation but is expected to lift household purchasing power.” For the fourth quarter, the TPSO forecasts an average headline inflation rate of 1.5%, attributing it to rising global crude oil prices and the end of government support measures for fuel and electricity prices. The Commerce Ministry projects headline inflation for the year to fall within a range of 0.0% to 1.0%, averaging 0.5%, which aligns with current economic trends, reported Bangkok Post. In a broader context, Thailand’s inflation rate in July 2024, which increased by 0.83% year-on-year, places the country in the low-inflation group, ranking 10th out of 128 economies that reported figures. Within ASEAN member nations, Thailand holds the second-lowest inflation rate. By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Somchai Poomlard Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-06 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Airports of Thailand Ground Aviation Services (AOTGA) anticipates that its newly inaugurated Multimodal Transportation Centre at Suvarnabhumi Airport will bolster Thailand’s position as a regional logistics hub, enhancing goods transportation among Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam (CLMV). The new centre is designed to integrate various transportation modes, including land, rail, sea, and air, with the added benefit of consolidating customs clearance procedures at a single point. Siriwat Tovachirakul, president of AOTGA, a subsidiary of Airports of Thailand Plc, highlighted the centre’s multifaceted capabilities. “The new centre integrates multiple modes of transportation, including land, rail, sea, and air, while enabling customs clearance procedures at a single point.” This integration is expected to reduce costs for logistics companies and support the government’s initiative to make Thailand a regional aviation hub. Siriwat projects that services offered by the centre will generate 80 million baht (US$2.4 million) in revenue in fiscal 2025, with cargo volumes estimated to range between 40,000 and 50,000 tonnes. The official opening of the centre, located in the airport’s Free Zone 3, was attended by executives and officials from Airports of Thailand and the Customs Department. More than 10 logistics and goods transportation companies have already started utilising the centre’s services, and the number is anticipated to grow in line with the continuous expansion of e-commerce, added Siriwat. “We expect revenue and cargo volume to increase by 10 to 15% a year.” AOTGA, in partnership with the Airports of Thailand and the Customs Department, invested 150 million baht (US$4.5 million) in developing the centre, which spans an area of 4,872 square metres. The facility aims to connect all transportation modes, offer centralised cargo handling and storage, and provide a comprehensive customs clearance system. Particular focus is given to the air cargo sector, which has seen significant growth due to Thailand’s strategic location as a hub for CLMV countries, especially for e-commerce goods. AOTGA anticipates breaking even within seven to eight years. The company expects its total revenue, including earnings from other ground services such as passenger luggage management, to reach between 3.8 and 3.9 billion baht (US$113.3 million and 116.3 million) in fiscal 2025, up from 3.4 billion baht (US$1 billion) in fiscal 2024, reported Bangkok Post. The increase in revenue is attributed to the company’s airport cleaning business and ground services at Phuket and Don Mueang airports. By Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-06 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

A former local administrative chief was fatally shot outside a house in Moo 5, Nikhom Lam Narai, Chai Badan district, Lopburi province. Witnesses reported that two assailants had been lurking for an hour before ambushing the victim and fleeing on a motorbike. Officers Phukanwik Chotiksathien, Chaimit Sitthipoon, and Winai Khamsuk interviewed the 55 year old administrative chief Thawatchai Thongtae’s 60 year old sister, Janthana Thongta yesterday, September 5, who lived next door. She recounted noticing two unfamiliar men on a motorbike parked 50 metres from her house near a cornfield. The men, who kept their helmets on, sped off after a while, followed by three gunshots. Janthana then discovered her brother had been shot dead. Janthana described Thawatchai as outspoken and loud. He had been divorced for a long time and had a new girlfriend who regularly visited him in a white car. That morning, Thawatchai was working on a house he intended to turn into a resort for his new love. Janthana had heard that the woman was married and was warned about her potentially dangerous double life. Despite these warnings, she did not intervene, believing her brother was mature enough to make his own decisions. Janthana expressed her conviction that this woman was responsible for bringing death upon her brother. Police are reviewing CCTV footage from Soi 130 in Nikhom Lam Narai, identifying the two suspects: a heavy-set driver and a tall, slim gunman, on a black Honda Wave motorbike. The assailants fled into a village within a cornfield with multiple exits and paths. The calm and deliberate manner of the gunmen suggests they might be professional hitmen, possibly luring Thawatchai out through a phone call. Police are hopeful of apprehending the culprits soon, reported KhaoSod. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-06 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Indian tourists arrested in Pattaya for stealing camera battery Photo courtesy of Pattaya News Pattaya Tourist Police apprehended two Photo courtesy of Pattaya NewsIndian tourists on their first day in Thailand for allegedly stealing a camera battery and then strolling along Walking Street. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337504-indian-tourists-arrested-in-pattaya-for-stealing-camera-battery/

Pattaya Tourist Police apprehended two Indian tourists on their first day in Thailand for allegedly stealing a camera battery and then strolling along Walking Street. Police Lieutenant Colonel Piyapong Ensan, Chief of Pattaya Tourist Police, along with other officers, arrested yesterday, September 5, at 5.16am two Indian nationals, identified as 29 year old Abhishek and 28 year old Akash (surnames withheld). The arrest came after a complaint by 34 year old Shaik, also from India, at the Pattaya Police Station. Shaik reported that his camera battery pack had been stolen at a cannabis shop located on Walking Street. Shaik entered the cannabis shop and placed his camera’s battery pack on a sofa while browsing products. Three fellow Indian tourists then entered the shop. The suspects noticed the battery on the sofa, with one reportedly sitting on the item to cover it while the other discreetly slipped the battery into his bag. The suspects then left the shop and continued to stroll along Walking Street as if nothing had happened. Pattaya Tourist Police, stationed on Walking Street, were informed of the alleged theft by the Pattaya Police Station and swiftly reviewed CCTV footage from the shop and along the suspects’ escape route. They soon discovered that the thieves had not fled but were walking leisurely not far from the incident scene. Upon realising they were about to be arrested, the suspects attempted to return the stolen battery, claiming it had been dropped and they were intending to return it. However, the officers remained unconvinced. The suspects were taken to the Tourist Police Station, where, after being confronted with clear CCTV evidence, they reportedly confessed to the crime. Both suspects, who had only arrived in Thailand a day earlier, were taken into custody along with the stolen camera battery, valued at around 5,000 baht. They were then handed over to the Pattaya Police Station for further legal proceedings, reported Pattaya News. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya News Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-06 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Flood Hit Phayao Faces Aid Controversy Over Miscommunication File photo for reference only Yesterday, September 4, the flood-stricken communities of Ban Fang Min and Ban Mae Tam Muang Chum in Phayao province were severely impacted. Homes, roads, and temples in these areas were inundated with water, prompting a desperate need for immediate relief. Responding to the call, both individuals and local leaders spearheaded relief efforts to help those affected. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337430-flood-hit-phayao-faces-aid-controversy-over-miscommunication/

Yesterday, September 4, the flood-stricken communities of Ban Fang Min and Ban Mae Tam Muang Chum in Phayao province were severely impacted. Homes, roads, and temples in these areas were inundated with water, prompting a desperate need for immediate relief. Responding to the call, both individuals and local leaders spearheaded relief efforts to help those affected. Chaos ensued when an individual, aiming to support the residents with 400 food and water packages, faced an unexpected hurdle. Upon arriving with 100 cooked meals and water, the local leaders refused the aid, citing a lack of prior coordination and the risk of food waste. Phanu, the benefactor, voiced his dissatisfaction: “Yesterday, I travelled over 20 kilometres to deliver food to Ban Fang Min, but was told to take it elsewhere. The local leader mentioned they already had enough food for the day and suggested I distribute it myself if I wanted recognition.” Consequently, the food and water supplies were redirected to Wat Muang Chum in the Mae Tam subdistrict. This forced the residents to navigate through floodwaters, travelling over 2 kilometres to collect the aid, adding to their already severe hardship. Narong Namwong, the head of the Dok Kham Tai Subdistrict Administrative Organisation, addressed the situation, emphasising that the miscommunication was a result of the municipality's prior distribution efforts. He clarified, “The municipality had already provided food to the villagers. To avoid duplication, we advised the benefactor to direct the aid to Ban Mae Tam Muang Chum, which hadn't received any yet.” He further explained that the Dok Kham Tai subdistrict Municipality and community leaders have been assisting the villagers for over two weeks, ensuring every household got aid. According to Narong, “We did not reject the donations; it was merely a communication issue. We have since coordinated with the benefactor to distribute the chicken rice meals again.” As the floodwaters persist, the need for effective coordination and clear communication between benefactors and local authorities is paramount, ensuring that aid reaches those who need it most without unnecessary complications. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-05 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Five Senior Police Officers Transferred Post Nightclub Shooting File photo for reference only In a swift and unexpected move, five senior police officers in Hua Hin have been reassigned following a tragic shooting incident at an unlicensed nightclub, which left one soldier dead and three individuals injured. The incident has sent shockwaves through the serene resort town of Prachuap Khiri Khan. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337429-five-senior-police-officers-transferred-post-nightclub-shooting/

In a swift and unexpected move, five senior police officers in Hua Hin have been reassigned following a tragic shooting incident at an unlicensed nightclub, which left one soldier dead and three individuals injured. The incident has sent shockwaves through the serene resort town of Prachuap Khiri Khan. Among the reassigned officers is Police Colonel Kampanart Na Wichai, the station superintendent, according to Hua Hin Today. These officers have been temporarily relocated to the Prachuap Khiri Khan police operations centre pending an in-depth investigation into the incident. The tragedy unfolded in the early hours of August 18 at the Tiny Bar on Soi 80, a bustling nightlife area located just 500 metres from the local police station. The victim, Rojchanaphon Rojchanapanich, was an intelligence officer with the Infantry Regiment Centre in the Pran Buri district. He was shot dead by 34-year-old Jakkrit Worakul, who had recently been removed from his advisory role with the Hua Hin police following various charges. Eyewitnesses report that Rojchanaphon was socialising with friends when he accidentally bumped into a woman believed to be Jakkrit’s girlfriend. In a shocking turn of events, Jakkrit allegedly shot the officer without any prior altercation. After surrendering to the authorities the following day, Jakkrit was released on bail set at 500,000 baht. The abrupt transfer of the police officers underscores the seriousness of the event and the intensity of the ongoing scrutiny surrounding it. This development hints at a broader effort to restore order and reassure the community after such a distressing episode. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-05 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Woman Denied Entry to South Korea Over Odd Immigration Query File photo for reference only A Thai woman's trip to South Korea ended abruptly after she was surprisingly denied entry for failing to answer peculiar questions about her hotel. The incident occurred on Tuesday, September 3, and it has since ignited a spirited debate online. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337428-thai-woman-denied-entry-to-south-korea-over-odd-immigration-query/

A Thai woman's trip to South Korea ended abruptly after she was surprisingly denied entry for failing to answer peculiar questions about her hotel. The incident occurred on Tuesday, September 3, and it has since ignited a spirited debate online. The woman recounted her ordeal on the Facebook group "Travelling to Korea by Yourself". She shared, "I was asked about the number of trees at my hotel and the colour of my room. I couldn’t answer and was sent back. They said my responses were unclear." Her bemusing experience has led to a flood of reactions on social media. Opinions are sharply divided. Some users found humour in the situation, offering facetious advice such as, “Just say two trees, one small, one large!” Others took a more serious stance, criticising the immigration officers’ line of questioning as excessive and disrespectful. One sarcastic comment highlighted the perceived absurdity, “Why not ask the airport how many bathrooms it has?” The woman also noted that she was not alone in facing this issue, alleging that more than 10 travellers were denied entry under similar circumstances. Her account has drawn attention to broader frustrations among travellers, particularly those from Thailand, who feel unfairly targeted by Korean immigration practices. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-05 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Filipino thief’s gem blunder: Nabbed on return to Bangkok airport Photo via KomChadLuek A Filipino man who stole a 250,000 baht necklace from a shop in a Bangkok shopping mall in March returned to Thailand today, leading to his arrest at Suvarnabhumi International Airport. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337425-filipino-thief’s-gem-blunder-nabbed-on-return-to-bangkok-airport/

A Filipino man who stole a 250,000 baht necklace from a shop in a Bangkok shopping mall in March returned to Thailand today, leading to his arrest at Suvarnabhumi International Airport. The 49 year old Filipino thief, Rolly, committed the crime at an accessory store within a shopping mall in the Pathum Wan district of Bangkok on March 26. He posed as a client and requested to see the necklace, which was made from diamonds and 20 grammes of gold. Rolly seized the opportunity while the staff member was busy with her work and walked out of the store with the necklace. Police were able to identify him after reviewing security camera footage. However, officers were unable to arrest him in time as he left Thailand immediately after the theft. Police closely monitored Rolly and discovered that he would arrive in Thailand via Suvarnabhumi Airport in the early hours of today, September 5. Officers kept watch on the security camera screens until they spotted the foreign thief and arrested him at about 3.30am. Rolly attempted to present himself as trustworthy by wearing formal attire similar to that of a businessman. At the time of his arrest, he was wearing a white sweater over a blue-striped long-sleeve shirt. The Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police Bureau, Teeradate Thammasutee, issued a warning to jewellery stores across the country to be wary of clients who dress well and present a perfect profile. Employees at each shop must exercise caution when showing valuable products to customers. Teeradate also suggested that each store install high-resolution security cameras to aid police in identifying criminals and increasing the chances of recovering stolen valuables. He added that an alert signal connected to a nearby police station is also necessary. By Petch Petpailin Photo via KomChadLuek Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-05 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai PM urged to probe environment minister’s state land claims Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The Seub Nakhasathien Foundation urged Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to investigate the qualifications of Chalermchai Sri-on, the newly appointed minister of natural resources and environment, due to allegations surrounding his possession of 120 rai of state land. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337423-thai-pm-urged-to-probe-environment-minister’s-state-land-claims/

The Seub Nakhasathien Foundation urged Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to investigate the qualifications of Chalermchai Sri-on, the newly appointed minister of natural resources and environment, due to allegations surrounding his possession of 120 rai of state land. The foundation emphasised that officials responsible for natural resources must be free from any involvement in the holding of state land. Chalermchai, leader of the Democrat Party, recently assumed his ministerial role, sparking widespread criticism among the officials expected to work under his leadership. In 2008, Chalermchai declared his assets, including Phor Bor Tor 5 land—a tax payment document issued by local authorities that does not confer legal ownership rights—for an area of 120 rai. However, in 2010, when he became labour minister, he did not declare this land. The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) is reportedly investigating this case, along with the holdings of 20 other politicians. Panudet Kerdmali, the foundation’s president, highlighted the need for transparency and the avoidance of any association with state land holdings, especially in forest areas. “I saw the news that the coming Cabinet under Paetongtarn is very strict about the qualifications of every minister. Therefore, I request this matter be considered thoroughly.” A source from the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) clarified that Phor Bor Tor 5 is merely a local tax payment document that does not grant ownership rights. The land remains state property, and this form of tax collection has been abolished due to illegal encroachments on national forest reserves. Meanwhile, Democrat Secretary-General Dech-it Khaothong, the new Deputy Public Health Minister, addressed criticism related to Tedy Teow Wooi Huat, a Malaysian accused of leading a fraud syndicate who has been extradited from Thailand to China. Dech-it stated there was no evidence supporting claims of ethical misconduct against him, reported Bangkok Post. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-05 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Palang Pracharath executives including key MPs jump ship Photo courtesy of The Nation Caretaker Agriculture Minister Thamanat Prompow and five key executives of the Palang Pracharath Party resigned from their posts yesterday, sparking speculation about the party’s future. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337422-palang-pracharath-executives-including-key-mps-jump-ship/

Caretaker Agriculture Minister Thamanat Prompow and five key executives of the Palang Pracharath Party resigned from their posts yesterday, sparking speculation about the party’s future. A well-placed source revealed that the six executives have already notified the Election Commission (EC), adding that their departure was imminent. Among those leaving with Thamanat were influential figures such as Samphan Mayusoh, Narathiwat MP; Atthakorn Sirilattyakorn, Chachoengsao MP; Boonsing Warinrak, Thamanat’s adviser; Boonying Nitikanchana, Ratchaburi MP; and Pai Leeke, Kamphaeng Phet MP. The resignations sent shockwaves through the political landscape, with insiders suggesting Thamanat’s fallout with Palang Pracharath leader General Prawit Wongsuwan was the catalyst. Thamanat, who once served as the party’s secretary-general, had been left out of the new government coalition under Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Speculation is rife that Palang Pracharath’s internal rift became unbridgeable, forcing Thamanat to form his faction within the party, with loyal members rallying behind him. The political drama doesn’t stop there. Three of Thamanat’s allies have already secured Cabinet positions: Narumon Pinyosinwat as Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister; Itthi Sirilatthayakorn as Deputy Agriculture Minister; and Thamanat’s younger brother, Akara Prompow, as Deputy Agriculture Minister. Meanwhile, Palang Pracharath is set to hold a general meeting tomorrow to reappoint its executive committee, reducing the number of members to 19. Paiboon Nititawan, the party’s deputy leader, is tipped to be nominated as the new secretary-general, while General Prawit is expected to stay on as party leader, reported The Nation. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-05 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Northeast Thailand: Duo nabbed smuggling 10 Chinese migrants Photo courtesy of Pattaya News In a dramatic late-night pursuit, immigration officers, together with Pa Rai police, intercepted a pickup truck smuggling 10 illegal Chinese migrants in the Don Tan district in the northeastern province of Mukdahan yesterday, September 4. Acting on a tip-off, officers were ready and waiting when the truck appeared. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337421-northeast-thailand-duo-nabbed-smuggling-10-chinese-migrants/

In a dramatic late-night pursuit, immigration officers, together with Pa Rai police, intercepted a pickup truck smuggling 10 illegal Chinese migrants in the Don Tan district in the northeastern province of Mukdahan yesterday, September 4. Acting on a tip-off, officers were ready and waiting when the truck appeared. Officers spotted the suspicious vehicle at around 11pm and signalled for it to stop. But instead of complying, the driver rammed through the police barrier and made a desperate dash for freedom. A high-speed chase ensued, with police hot on their tail. The truck was eventually forced to stop, and the suspects’ night took a turn for the worse. The driver, identified only as Nampol, attempted to flee on foot but was quickly apprehended. According to police reports, a search of his belongings uncovered a Glock 19 pistol loaded with two rounds of ammunition. His accomplice, Natthapol, also tried to escape but was later tracked down and arrested. Inside the truck’s cramped cargo area, police discovered 10 Chinese nationals, along with a stash of over 100 mobile phones. Both Thai men now face charges of assisting illegal entry and illegal possession of firearms. Meanwhile, the Chinese nationals have been charged with unlawful entry. All suspects have been handed over to Pa Rai police for further legal proceedings. Officers hailed the operation as a successful crackdown on human trafficking in the region, reported Pattaya News. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya News Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-05 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Extends Maternity Leave to 98 Days and Increases Social Security Benefits File photo for reference only Thailand's Ministry of Labour has announced that starting next year, increased benefits will be provided to members of the Social Security Fund (SSF). The most noteworthy adjustment includes an extension of the contribution period from age 60 to 65. This change will permit members to earn more substantial benefits. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337417-thailand-extends-maternity-leave-to-98-days-and-increases-social-security-benefits/

Thailand's Ministry of Labour has announced that starting next year, increased benefits will be provided to members of the Social Security Fund (SSF). The most noteworthy adjustment includes an extension of the contribution period from age 60 to 65. This change will permit members to earn more substantial benefits. Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn detailed the new rules for SSF management. These adjustments, according to him, will also be available to employees of private firms covered by Section 33 of the Social Security Act and to those under Section 39. They are still entitled to benefits, although they have stopped contributing. These enhancements consist of higher insurance payments in cases of accidents, illnesses, disability, or death. Moreover, the period for maternity leave benefits will also be expanded. Previously, SSF members on maternity leave were given an allowance equivalent to half of their daily salary for 90 days. This period will now cover 98 days. Members with disabilities will see a boost in their monthly support, which will go up from 50% to 70% of their income loss. Freelancers insured under Section 40 of the Social Security Act will also receive increased benefits. This includes a lifelong monthly support of 3,000 baht (US$90) if they become disabled. There are also plans underway to prevent the SSF from going bankrupt within the next three decades. The minister explains that keeping a steady number of fund members is key for the SSF to continue operating. Therefore, the aim is to enroll more workers, both Thai and foreign, who work in farming, gardening, or domestic services. Currently, only 1.4 million out of Thailand's five million legal and illegal migrant workers are part of the SSF system. According to Phiphat, increasing this figure to four million would significantly strengthen the fund. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-05 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Influencer Market Soars to 45 Billion Baht Amid Digital Surge File photo for reference only Thailand’s influencer marketing sector has surged to a striking 45 billion baht (US$1.3 billion) this year, marking a substantial 25-30% increase from the previous year, according to Tellscore Co Ltd. Pioneering this growth is the intense demand for content spanning news, science, education, and family topics. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337416-thai-influencer-market-soars-to-45-billion-baht-amid-digital-surge/