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The Chonburi Children and Families Shelter is set to care for an 11-year-old who was caught vaping an e-cigarette near a nightclub in Pattaya. This incident went viral after a video was shared on social media platforms. The woman claiming to be his guardian stated that he has lived with her since he was three, and has a history of running away from home. She also mentioned that she had no information about how or where the boy acquired the e-cigarette. Following this, the local officials of Bang Lamung district alongside Pattaya police are getting ready to launch investigations and legal proceedings against anyone involved in selling these unlawful devices in Thailand. A study on e-cigarette usage in a central Thailand's primary school, done by medical students from Ramathibodi Hospital's Medicine Faculty in January, revealed that 15% of fourth and fifth graders reported being influenced or urged to try e-cigarettes by family members. Furthermore, 73% of underage users testified to getting the e-cigarettes from family, friends, or other community members, either through lending or selling. These findings are in line with the 2022 data on tobacco usage among Thai youth, which reported a significant rise in e-cigarette usage in children and teens, moving from 3.3% in 2015 to 17.6% in 2022, an increase by 5.3 times. File photo for reference only -- 2024-08-26 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Noodle Seller in Nonthaburi Under Scrutiny for Gold Purchases File photo for reference only A noodle seller in Nonthaburi, who recently expressed his interest to buy more gold jewelry already owning more than 40 baht of gold, has triggered a debate on social media regarding the earning capacity of his business amidst a struggling economy and soaring gold prices. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336520-noodle-seller-in-nonthaburi-under-scrutiny-for-gold-purchases/

A noodle seller in Nonthaburi, who recently expressed his interest to buy more gold jewelry already owning more than 40 baht of gold, has triggered a debate on social media regarding the earning capacity of his business amidst a struggling economy and soaring gold prices. The businessman, Rangsan Suwannason, owner of Hong Te Noodle shop, situated in front of Krisada Nakorn Village on Chaeng Watthana Road, has gained considerable attention due to his prosperity. Many are curious about how a noodle shop can be so profitable to afford such extravagance. This intrigue has now attracted the attention of local tax collectors. On August 25, local tax officials revealed their plans to look into Rangsan’s earnings and cross-check if he has been keeping up with his income tax obligations. To estimate his earnings, they will examine the average daily customer visits, compare his income against his expenses, hence avoiding the old-fashioned means of counting noodle bowls. With numerous noodle sellers on Chaeng Watthana Road and stretching to Pak Kret, the authorities noticed that no other noodle business has reported such immense profits. This inconsistency led to speculations that Rangsan might have additional income sources or other business undertakings. The tax department will run an on-site scrutiny to estimate the shop's income after expenses. This will involve questioning and evaluating daily customer counts to certify the shop’s revenue, and to ensure Rangsan’s tax payments are accurate and aren't overdue. While Rangsan’s tax data are private and won't be made public, this incident underscores the significance of small business triumphs meeting tax obligations, especially when such victories become publicly well-known. It is crucial for all business owners to keep clear and precise financial records to avoid potential legal challenges. File photo for reference only -- 2024-08-26 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Dog Saved from Flooded Dam in Udon Thani File photo for reference only A Golden Retriever named Phakwan was saved from a dangerous overflowing dam in Udon Thani after spending hours battling the harsh waters. The incident happened on August 25, as a result of several days of heavy rain causing widespread flooding in the Nong Bueng Na Kham neighborhood. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336519-dog-saved-from-flooded-dam-in-udon-thani/

A Golden Retriever named Phakwan was saved from a dangerous overflowing dam in Udon Thani after spending hours battling the harsh waters. The incident happened on August 25, as a result of several days of heavy rain causing widespread flooding in the Nong Bueng Na Kham neighborhood. Surachet Phumisrikaew, the head of Moo 13 village, within the Ban Chiang section of the Nong Han area in Udon Thani, was informed by locals about a dog stuck in the flooded dam. He immediately arranged a rescue mission with help from local officials and police. The team, armed with ropes and rescue equipment, quickly headed to the location. Upon reaching Bueng Na Kham, rescuers saw the Golden Retriever, Phakwan, frantically swimming and struggling to keep afloat due to the powerful water currents coming from the reservoir. The ailing dog's fight to stay above the water showed the gravity of the situation. The village leader and the town's protection unit tried numerous ways to save the dog, but the swift flow of water made the task incredibly tough. A member of the rescue team mentioned the need for careful and calculated steps, given the high speed of the water flow. The rescuers used a rope to safely get Phakwan out of the water. The exhausted dog was immediately taken care of by his owner, who rushed him to the Warm Animal Clinic in Nong Han for medical treatment. Surachet confirmed the uplifting news that Phakwan is now safe and recuperating, a relief to his owner. Surachet highlighted the community's quick response and coordination were key in rescuing Phakwan, adding "every second counts" in such situations. The heavy rain that has hit Udon Thani for several days has caused many water areas to overflow, raising the likelihood of similar incidents. Local officials have called on residents to stay alert and report any emergencies promptly to avoid similar events in the future. File photo for reference only -- 2024-08-26 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai cyber police uncover online high-end hotel booking scam File photo for reference only Officers from the Thai Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB) have exposed a substantial online fraud involving false advertising and bookings for luxury accommodation. The operation led to numerous victims being scammed out of a total sum exceeding 3 million baht. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336518-thai-cyber-police-uncover-online-high-end-hotel-booking-scam/

Officers from the Thai Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB) have exposed a substantial online fraud involving false advertising and bookings for luxury accommodation. The operation led to numerous victims being scammed out of a total sum exceeding 3 million baht. Yesterday, on August 25, the CCIB officers questioned Busnavee, 46, the owner of the company involved. It had been promoting discounted luxury accommodation but not delivering on its promises. Over 20 victims from across Thailand had made complaints to the police online about their experiences. The victims had booked rooms via a Facebook page and a group on Line, both operated by BluNavy Hua Hin. The company had taken payments for room auctions and either failed to supply the rooms booked or offered substandard alternatives. The victims' losses added up to 2,960,228 baht. A popular TV show brought further attention to the situation and prompted the CCIB to look into the matter. BluNavy Hua Hin falsely advertised rooms in four and five-star hotels, with auction starting bids as low as 100 baht. Buyers also had to pay membership fees of between 100 and 400 baht. Once an auction ended, the administrators removed all related posts before contacting the highest bidders for payment. Various additional sales tricks were used, including mystery boxes, milestone-based prizes, and large discount coupons. All of these offers turned out to be bogus, leaving buyers unable to claim the promised benefits. Further tricks were used after payments had been made, with additional conditions imposed on buyers. They were sometimes asked to pay deposits or provide review photos for the promise of free repeat visits. Victims who transferred more money often encountered delays in refund of these. In some cases, victims encountered demands for payments for an advance deposit of three to six months. Yet they found that when they arrived for their stays, their bookings had been downgraded or postponed and their deposits weren't refunded as agreed. In some instances, victims were given booking numbers from well-known hotel booking sites, but found no payment had been made when they arrived at the hotel. If they chose to stay, they had to pay themselves, with no refund. Sometimes they were offered bookings at 40 to 60% below the usual rate, but these turned out to be invalid. Investigations by the CCIB revealed that Busnavee, acting as the legal representative of BluNavy Hua Hin, had registered the company as an accommodation agent. The company had claimed to operate for several years, partially supporting itself through a supposed charity in Phuket that helped cover room costs. Busnavee recently appeared at the CCIB office to face charges of collaboration in fraud against the public. Essentially, she had used false computer data likely to harm others. Initially, she denied all accusations which led the police to retain her for further legal action. File photo for reference only -- 2024-08-26 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Deadly brawl outside police station leaves Thai man dead Photo via ThaiRath A deadly brawl erupted outside Pho Kaew Police Station in the central province of Nakhon Pathom on Friday leaving one Thai man dead. The deceased’s family condemned the police for their inaction. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336513-deadly-brawl-outside-police-station-leaves-thai-man-dead/

A deadly brawl erupted outside Pho Kaew Police Station in the central province of Nakhon Pathom on Friday leaving one Thai man dead. The deceased’s family condemned the police for their inaction. The fatal stabbing occurred in front of the police station in the Sampran district of Nakhon Pathom at about 9pm on August 23. The two injured Thai men, 47 year old Jadesada Niammueang and 17 year old Boonrit Kaewboonperm, were transferred to Mettapracharak Hospital. Jadesada sustained three stab wounds to his chest and another wound in his back while Boonrit suffered a cut to his mouth. Unfortunately, Jadesada later succumbed to his injuries. The two suspects involved in the stabbing, 44 year old Nopporn Chuenklin and 36 year old Adisak Kasemsan, were arrested and detained at the police station after the incident. Jadesada’s friend, Nattawut, told Channel 7 that an argument initially broke out between Boonrit and Nopporn’s son. As a result, the two parties arranged a meeting to settle the issue at the police station on the day of the incident. According to Nattawut, Nopporn immediately pulled out a knife and stabbed Jadesada outside the police station. Chaos ensued but police officers did not intervene to suppress the situation. Nopporn’s friend, Adisak, then approached Boonrit and cut his mouth. Police finally intervened and arrested the two attackers but their action was criticised for not acting quickly. Nattawut stated that he wanted to seek justice for his two friends, especially the deceased Jadesada. He criticised the police for allowing the fatal attack to occur right outside the police station. Pho Kaew Police Station officers revealed to MGR Online that the two parties arranged the meeting by themselves and did not inform any police officers about the matter. More than ten police officers rushed to control the situation as soon as they realised what was happening. Nopporn and Adisak confessed that they engaged in a heated argument with the other party and that those victims insulted their parents. The argument escalated into a physical altercation but they claimed they were unable to fight back and decided to attack the other party with knives. Officers reported that the two suspects would be presented in a provincial court today but did not mention anything about Jadesada’s family and friends, who accused the police of inaction and delayed response. By Petch Petpailin Photo via ThaiRath Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-26 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Family mourns paralysed brother found dead near Udon Thani kiln Picture courtesy of khaosod official website A family in Udon Thani is mourning the loss of their paralysed brother, who was found dead next to a charcoal kiln. One of the deceased’s sisters had a premonition last week while his wife described their final moments together before he left home early in the morning. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336512-family-mourns-paralysed-brother-found-dead-near-udon-thani-kiln/

A family in Udon Thani is mourning the loss of their paralysed brother, who was found dead next to a charcoal kiln. One of the deceased’s sisters had a premonition last week while his wife described their final moments together before he left home early in the morning. At 6.30am today, August 26, an inspector from Udon Thani City Police Station, Police Lieutenant Colonel Jesada Wongwai, received a report of a man found deceased next to a charcoal kiln in a public area near Ban Chan Reservoir, Ban Chan subdistrict, Mueang district, Udon Thani province. The police, including a doctor from Udon Thani Central Hospital and volunteers from Udonthani Promotion of Virtue, promptly arrived at the scene. The deceased, identified as 50 year old Boonrod, was found shirtless, wearing only grey shorts, lying on his back. His wife and relatives had gathered at the scene, their wails of grief filling the air, deeply moving both officials and onlookers. The family had rushed to the location upon hearing the tragic news. One of Boonrod’s sisters revealed that she had a premonition about his death last week. His wife recounted their final moments together before he left home at dawn. They had placed a rolled-up plastic mat under his head for comfort. Upon examination, the doctor found no injuries or signs of foul play on Boonrod’s body, nor any evidence of a struggle in the surrounding area. It is believed that Boonrod died from sudden cardiac failure or a pre-existing condition. At the time of the incident, he was alone and unable to call for help, leading to his eventual death. He had likely been dead for approximately two hours before being discovered. The first person to find the body was 85 year old Tee recounted arriving at the kiln area around 5am and seeing Boonrod lying motionless. Upon calling out and receiving no response, Tee approached and noticed saliva dripping from Boonrod’s mouth, indicating he was already dead. He immediately informed the village and Boonrod’s relatives. Tee mentioned that he had been making charcoal in the area for many years, along with others who had their own kilns. On the previous day, he had seen and briefly spoken with Boonrod. Partial paralysis Boonrod’s wife, 58 year old Charawan, stated that he had been making charcoal for a long time and would leave home early every day to tend to the kilns. Despite his partial paralysis from a car accident 20 years ago, Boonrod was diligent and hardworking. On the morning of his death, he had left home around 4am after having his coffee. Shortly after, she was informed of his death. Charawan said there were no signs of impending doom before the incident. Despite his paralysis, Boonrod had been physically strong and able to work normally. Boonrod’s sixth sister, 65 year old Lamun, mentioned that their family comprises 11 siblings, with Boonrod being the youngest. She had experienced a twitching right eye a week prior, which she considered a bad omen, though she hadn’t expected it to foretell Boonrod’s death. Lamun added that she saw Boonrod regularly as their houses were close. She had seen him just that morning when he shone a flashlight into her home, to which she remarked on his early rising. Upon hearing the news, she and the family rushed to try and resuscitate him, but it was too late. Boonrod’s tenth sister, 55 year old Somjit, led the family in lighting incense to honour Boonrod’s spirit, praying for him to return home and find peace. She expressed her sorrow, noting that Boonrod had been in good health the previous day, even helping with a sick relative. She believed his death might have been due to overwork and lack of rest. The family now grieves deeply, but they take solace in knowing Boonrod is at peace, free from suffering, reported Khaosod. By Sarishti Arora Picture courtesy of khaosod official website Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-23 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Air Force mobilises to aid northern regions in flood relief efforts Image courtesy of KhaoSod The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) mobilised aircraft to survey flood-hit regions, relaying vital data to support water drainage routes and delivering aid in a comprehensive flood relief programme. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336511-thai-air-force-mobilises-to-aid-northern-regions-in-flood-relief-efforts/

The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) mobilised aircraft to survey flood-hit regions, relaying vital data to support water drainage routes and delivering aid in a comprehensive flood relief programme. Yesterday, August 25, RTAF Chief Marshal Phanpakdee Patanakun announced efforts to assist those affected by the severe flooding in northern Thailand. The RTAF is deploying all available resources and coordinating with various sectors to offer comprehensive relief as swiftly as possible. The RTAF dispatched an EC-725 helicopter from Wing 41 in Chiang Mai to conduct aerial reconnaissance over the flood-affected areas in northern Thailand. The mission includes surveying Mueang district in Phrae province, Sirikit Dam in Tha Pla district, Uttaradit province, and Mueang district, Nan province, as well as Sukhothai province and nearby areas. The purpose was to gather aerial images that can assist relevant agencies in assessing the flood situation and planning further relief efforts. Additionally, Wing 3’s Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (drone) unit in Watthana Nakhon district, Sa Kaeo province, has been tasked with capturing aerial images to monitor incoming water masses. This data will be crucial for agencies in forecasting and preparing for potential impacts in central and other regions. The RTAF’s assistance strategy also includes the deployment of transport aircraft from Wing 46, acting under the Disaster Relief Operation Centre. The RTAF is utilising Type 2G transport planes from Squadron 461, typically used for cloud seeding missions, to deliver essential supplies. These supplies include survival kits and disaster relief boats, vital for areas where ground routes are impassable due to high water levels spreading across multiple provinces. Air Chief Marshal Phanpakdee Patanakun emphasised the importance of integrating efforts across sectors to ensure effective and timely aid to those in need. The comprehensive approach includes detailed aerial surveys to provide up-to-date information on flood conditions, enabling more accurate and responsive relief measures. The use of both helicopters and drones ensures extensive coverage and data collection, crucial for managing the flood crisis. The aerial reconnaissance and data collection efforts are not limited to the immediate affected areas but also extend to regions potentially at risk of incoming floodwaters. This proactive strategy aims to mitigate further damage and prepare communities for potential impacts, reported KhaoSod. By Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-26 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Calls for action on Chinese investments in Thailand The new Government of Thailand is facing calls to swiftly address the growing perception that Chinese products and investments pose a threat to Thai interests. This sentiment, if left unchecked, could harm Thailand’s export and tourism sectors. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336510-calls-for-action-on-chinese-investments-in-thailand/

The new Government of Thailand is facing calls to swiftly address the growing perception that Chinese products and investments pose a threat to Thai interests. This sentiment, if left unchecked, could harm Thailand’s export and tourism sectors. President of the Panyapiwat Institute of Management and an expert on the Chinese and US economies, Sompop Manarungsan, emphasised the need for cooperation between Thailand and China to develop a mutually beneficial trade model. “Negative sentiment has been growing to the point where even a Chinese fried chicken brand that recently set up franchises in Thailand is seen as a threat. There are numerous Japanese and Korean restaurants in Thailand, while Chinese fried chicken shops are relatively few.” Sompop warned that unresolved perceptions and attitudes towards Chinese investment and trade could lead to a trade confrontation with China, negatively impacting Thailand’s export and tourism sectors. While acknowledging that Chinese investment and the influx of Chinese products do affect local businesses, Sompop pointed out the dual nature of this relationship. Many factories in Thailand rely on low-cost components or raw materials from China. He stressed the importance of consultation and understanding between the Chinese and Thai governments to address the issue early and find a win-win model for both countries. One example he cited was that if China becomes a wholesaler in Thailand, it should avoid entering the retail market to compete with local businesses. Thailand faces an annual trade deficit with China of around US$10 billion, mostly due to the import of raw materials and intermediate goods, while imports of finished products from China remain relatively low. Automotive industry In the automotive industry, the competition from Chinese electric vehicle (EV) companies in Thailand was also discussed. Sompop pointed out that EVs and internal combustion engine (ICE)-powered vehicles are not directly competing in the same market, as the market share of EVs is still significantly smaller than that of ICE-powered cars. He suggested that the Thai government should study the subsidy structures of other countries to evaluate how subsidies can support the EV market while minimising the impact on ICE-powered cars. Currently, the Thai government provides a subsidy of 100,000 baht per EV, whereas the Chinese government is gradually increasing its EV subsidy from 10,000 yuan to 20,000 yuan (from 48,107 baht to 96,214 baht) per vehicle. The market is undergoing a transitional period as developed countries have imposed trade barriers on China. This has led to a reduction in Chinese exports to nations such as the US, South Korea, Japan, and European countries by more than 10% annually. Sompop noted that China has not yet reduced its production capacity, resulting in a surplus of Chinese goods flowing into developing countries. He suggested that China may need to reduce its capacity or relocate production bases in the future. During this transition, careful management of the transformation process is essential, Sompop advised, reported Bangkok Post. By Sarishti Arora Picture courtesy of Sunday gaurdian official website Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-26 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Schoolgirls Expose Teacher Over Inappropriate Instagram Images File photo for reference only In a small town in Pattalung, Southern Thailand, a group of schoolgirls has lodged a formal complaint against a male teacher suspected of creating and sharing explicit images of them on Instagram. On August 23, one student, after discovering nude images of herself on the platform, reported the matter to teachers, only to be discouraged from taking legal action by the school director, who was concerned about the school's reputation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336323-thai-schoolgirls-expose-teacher-over-inappropriate-instagram-images/

In a small town in Pattalung, Southern Thailand, a group of schoolgirls has lodged a formal complaint against a male teacher suspected of creating and sharing explicit images of them on Instagram. On August 23, one student, after discovering nude images of herself on the platform, reported the matter to teachers, only to be discouraged from taking legal action by the school director, who was concerned about the school's reputation. The girl, undeterred, went to Khok Cha-ngai Police Station with her parents and four friends, whose images had also been shared. Initial reports suggest over 10 students might have fallen victim to this alleged misconduct. The images were reportedly edited and circulated on Instagram, spurring concerns among the victims' families about the school's lack of protective measures. The allegations pinpoint a male teacher known for inappropriate behaviour around young female students and possessing photo-editing skills. However, the police have yet to initiate a full investigation, pending additional complaints from other affected students. Journalists visiting the school were met with resistance, with a male staff member insisting the matter was an internal issue and urging reporters to cease their inquiries. The situation remains tense as the community awaits further actions from both law enforcement and the educational institution involved. File photo for reference only -- 2024-08-23 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Bangkok Yai Police Hunt Trio After Brazen Early Morning Heist File photo for reference only Bangkok – Police are urgently reviewing CCTV footage to identify and apprehend three robbers who struck an apartment in Bangkok Yai in a daring early morning theft. The incident occurred around 4:30am today, seeing the trio steal 50,000 baht in cash, three mobile phones, and a gold bracelet. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336322-bangkok-yai-police-hunt-trio-after-brazen-early-morning-heist/

Bangkok – Police are urgently reviewing CCTV footage to identify and apprehend three robbers who struck an apartment in Bangkok Yai in a daring early morning theft. The incident occurred around 4:30am today, seeing the trio steal 50,000 baht in cash, three mobile phones, and a gold bracelet. Responding promptly, officers from the Bangkok Yai Police Station arrived at an apartment on Soi Charan Sanitwong 12. They found three traumatised victims: 24-year-old Pranom, 17-year-old Suttiphat, and 19-year-old Narawit, who detailed their harrowing ordeal. The assailants violently attacked them, delivering blows to their faces before making off with the loot. Pranom's losses included the substantial cash sum, a valuable gold bracelet estimated at 10,000 baht, and her mobile phone. Suttiphat and Narawit both reported their phones were taken. Descriptions provided by the victims indicated two of the thieves were about 170 centimetres tall, concealing their identities with balaclavas and motorcycle helmets. The third, also similarly tall, wore a face mask and cap, distinguishable by numerous tattoos on his body and face. Following the initial response, police escorted the victims to the station for further questioning and the start of legal proceedings. Efforts are now focused on reviewing CCTV footage from the apartment and surrounding areas to trace the suspects. This crime has sent shockwaves through the community, heightening concerns about safety and security in the otherwise quiet neighbourhood. Police urge anyone with information to come forward as they intensify their hunt for the culprits. File photo for reference only -- 2024-08-23 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Airlines Gear Up for Major Fleet Expansion Post-Covid Recovery File photo for reference only As the global aviation industry experiences a swift recovery post-Covid, Thailand's airlines are preparing for a significant fleet expansion. Anticipating a doubling in air travel by 2043, as forecasted by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), Thai carriers are positioning themselves to dominate the skies. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336321-thai-airlines-gear-up-for-major-fleet-expansion-post-covid-recovery/

As the global aviation industry experiences a swift recovery post-Covid, Thailand's airlines are preparing for a significant fleet expansion. Anticipating a doubling in air travel by 2043, as forecasted by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), Thai carriers are positioning themselves to dominate the skies. Thai Airways International (THAI) is at the forefront of this growth. Chief Commercial Officer Korakot Chatasingha has announced that THAI, which currently operates a fleet of 77 aircraft, plans to expand to 90 by next year. Long-term, the airline aims for a fleet of 143 planes over the next decade, focusing on wide-body aircraft for European routes and narrow-body jets for Asia-Pacific destinations. In addition to THAI's growth, the boutique airline Bangkok Airways will add two Airbus A319s this year, increasing its fleet to 25 aircraft. Over the next five years, President Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth plans to grow this number to 30, ensuring the airline adequately serves its high-demand Bangkok-Samui route. Low-cost carrier Thai AirAsia also has ambitious plans. By year-end, CEO Santisuk Klongchaiya aims to restore the airline's pre-Covid fleet of 63 planes and add 25-30 new aircraft over the next five years, including five Airbus A321neo planes. The goal is to serve 22 million passengers this year. Similarly, Thai AirAsia X will support its Airbus A330 fleet expansion, going from eight to 11 planes by year's end, CEO Tassapon Bijleveld announced. The airline plans to reinstate flights to Sydney and aims to serve 2 million passengers. Long-term, the fleet is set to grow to 30 aircraft within five years. Thai Lion Air is also rebuilding its fleet post-pandemic. CEO Aswin Yangkirativorn noted that the airline plans to increase its current fleet of 20 planes to 25 by year-end and add five more next year, targeting a total of 35 aircraft. Lastly, Thai VietJet Air will boost its fleet by adding two Airbus A320s this year, bringing the total to 20 planes. CEO Woranate Laprabang has plans to acquire nine to 12 new aircraft next year, with a goal of reaching a 50-plane fleet by 2028, focusing on expanding into untapped Chinese markets, Japan, and India. These strategic expansions reflect Thailand’s airlines' confidence and readiness to capture a significant share of the anticipated surge in global air travel. File photo for reference only -- 2024-08-23 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Commerce Ministry promotes Thai SELECT restaurants Picture courtesy of asianews.network official website The Commerce Ministry launched prototype Thai SELECT restaurants to boost Thailand’s soft power on a global scale. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336320-commerce-ministry-promotes-thai-select-restaurants/

The Commerce Ministry launched prototype Thai SELECT restaurants to boost Thailand’s soft power on a global scale. Celebrating its 104th anniversary, the ministry hosted the Driving the Thai Economy with Soft Power exhibition, led by caretaker Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, on the forecourt of its building. Phumtham emphasised the ministry’s dedication to enacting policies aimed at accelerating economic recovery. These policies are designed to enhance the well-being of citizens, increase income, reduce expenses, broaden opportunities, and ensure a balance between consumers, agricultural producers, and business operators, thus sustaining their livelihoods and businesses. Additionally, the ministry highlighted the importance of Thailand’s soft power in creating employment and generating income. Soft power is increasingly seen as a critical tool for economic growth, with the government striving to foster a creative economy that evolves from national identity, local wisdom, and creativity, and is intertwined with culture and society. This strategy aims to advance the production of goods and services. Phumtham stated that the ministry supports this initiative by organising meetings, seminars, and trade shows to promote Thai soft power. A press conference on Thursday at the ministry featured a model displaying local products exemplifying soft power. In a related move, the ministry is hosting an exhibition of Thai SELECT restaurants to further promote Thailand’s soft power. The Thai SELECT certification, granted by the Commerce Ministry, recognises Thai restaurants and pre-packaged Thai food products that authentically reflect local wisdom and culture, and use high-quality raw materials such as Hom Mali fragrant rice and geographical indication-registered products. The ministry plans to feature lifestyle products, fashion, and crafted designs at 1,600 Thai SELECT restaurants worldwide. Promoting Thai SELECT food as an international soft power is a significant selling point for the country and contributes to driving the economy, aligning with government policies, Phumtham said, reported Bangkok Post. By Sarishti Arora Picture courtesy of asianews.network official website Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-23 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thaksin-era furniture returns as Paetongtarn takes office File photo for reference only The iconic furniture from Thaksin Shinawatra’s administration has been reinstated in the Prime Minister’s office, just in time for his daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, to take the reins as Thailand’s youngest premier. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336319-thaksin-era-furniture-returns-as-paetongtarn-takes-office/

The iconic furniture from Thaksin Shinawatra’s administration has been reinstated in the Prime Minister’s office, just in time for his daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, to take the reins as Thailand’s youngest premier. The sofa set and wooden desk, once the centrepieces of the PM’s office during Thaksin’s tenure (2001-2006), were returned today to their original spots in the Thai Khu Fah building, located within the Government House compound. These pieces had faithfully served a string of prime ministers until General Prayut Chan-o-cha’s departure. However, Srettha Thavisin, who succeeded Prayut, opted to replace the furnishings with his own when he took office. According to the Cabinet Secretariat, other office fixtures, such as filing cabinets, have remained untouched since Thaksin’s era, preserving a piece of history in the heart of the government. Additionally, the guest waiting room and the PM’s dressing room, which had been converted into a bedroom by Srettha for his overnight stays, will be restored to their original condition, erasing the last traces of his short-lived term. Paetongtarn, sworn in as Thailand’s 31st prime minister on August 18, takes office under the shadow of her family’s political legacy. At just 38, she not only became the youngest leader in Thailand’s history but also the third member of the Shinawatra family to hold the nation’s highest office, following in the footsteps of her father, Thaksin, and her aunt, Yingluck Shinawatra (2011-2014), reported The Nation. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-23 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe