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Death toll in Phuket landslide rises to 9, including 2 Russians Photo by Andaman top news via Phuket Times The death toll from the flash flood and landslide in Phuket rose to nine, with two of the deceased being Russian nationals. Ten people were injured while dozens remain missing. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336269-heavy-rains-cause-landslides-in-phuket-1-dead/?do=findComment&comment=19174008

Death toll in Phuket landslide rises to 9, including 2 Russians The death toll from the flash flood and landslide in Phuket rose to nine, with two of the deceased being Russian nationals. Ten people were injured while dozens remain missing. The heavy rain from 1am today, August 23, led to a flash flood and landslide in the community near Kitti Sangkatam Temple in the Mueang district of Phuket. The residential area located near the mountain was affected. According to a report in the Phuket Times this morning, one resident was killed in the incident, while four others were injured. However, many residents in the area remain missing, prompting relevant government officials and rescuers to search for them. According to the latest update on Amarin TV this afternoon, the death toll has risen to nine, and the number of injuries has now reached ten. The first body was found in Soi Patak 2, while the other seven bodies were found in Soi Patak 8. One of the deceased is a Thai national, six are Burmese, and two are Russian. However, the search operation has not yet been called off, as some residents remain missing in the flood and damaged accommodation. Three sub-districts in the area have been declared disaster areas/emergency disaster relief zones, including Karon, Rawai, and Chalong sub-districts. A 34 year old Thai woman, Sukhon Nakmart, who survived the incident, revealed to ThaiRath that the landslide took place while she was sleeping. She heard a noise like some parts of her home breaking, and the ceiling and roof suddenly collapsed. Sukhon said she decided to run out of her home and climb onto the roof of another building nearby. She suffered only mild injuries near her eyebrow, as well as to her arms and legs. By Petch Petpailin Photo by Andaman top news via Phuket Times Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-23 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Baby Elephant's Heart-Wrenching Calls as Mother Swept Away in Thai Floods File photo for reference only In a heartrending scene, the cries of a baby elephant echoed through the forests of northern Thailand as its mother was carried off by torrential floodwaters. Overnight rains triggered severe flooding across Phayao, Nan, Chiang Rai, and Phrae provinces, wreaking havoc on homes and farmlands. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336318-baby-elephants-heart-wrenching-calls-as-mother-swept-away-in-thai-floods/

In a heartrending scene, the cries of a baby elephant echoed through the forests of northern Thailand as its mother was carried off by torrential floodwaters. Overnight rains triggered severe flooding across Phayao, Nan, Chiang Rai, and Phrae provinces, wreaking havoc on homes and farmlands. The distressing event transpired when a mother elephant, Mae Noi Noi, was caught in the violent currents while attempting to cross a swelling river. Her calf, named Phu Phing, could only watch and trumpet in fear from the riverbank. The dramatic moment, captured on video by local Facebook user Kwan Daeng Phu Phing, has since gone viral. The footage depicts Mae Noi Noi struggling against the surging waters, with Phu Phing's desperate calls adding to the tension. "A tense moment as Mae Noi Noi tries to cross the powerful current. Will she make it back? Phu Phing is calling for her," recounted Kwan Daeng Phu Phing in a caption accompanying the video. These unexpected floods, a consequence of continuous and heavy rainfall, have severely impacted the northern provinces. Houses and agricultural lands are submerged, making recovery a formidable task. Witnesses noted the river's abnormally high and fast-moving waters, attributed to the relentless downpour. Authorities are currently managing the disaster response, with local officials and various agencies collaborating to provide aid and support to the affected residents. The severity and rapid onset of the flooding have, however, posed significant challenges. With weather forecasts predicting more rain in the coming days, the situation remains precarious. Residents in the affected areas have been advised to stay alert and ready for potential evacuations. The Thai government, along with local organisations, is committed to responding swiftly to mitigate further damage and ensure the safety of all those affected. Photo: The Thaiger -- 2024-08-23 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Department of Rice aids northern farmers after floods Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Thailand’s Department of Rice, in collaboration with three rice associations, has donated survival bags and over 50 tonnes of rice to assist northern farmers affected by recent floods. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336317-thailand-department-of-rice-aids-northern-farmers-after-floods/

Thailand’s Department of Rice, in collaboration with three rice associations, has donated survival bags and over 50 tonnes of rice to assist northern farmers affected by recent floods. Recent floods have ravaged the northern provinces of Phayao, Nan, Chiang Rai, and Phrae, leading to extensive damage to homes and farmlands. This disaster has severely impacted the agricultural sector in these regions. In response, the Department of Rice, following the directive from Thammanat Prompao, Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, has swiftly moved to provide aid. The department has prepared 2,000 survival bags containing essential supplies, along with 50 tonnes of rice, to support those affected by the floods. The Director-General of the Department of Rice Natakit Khongtip expressed deep concern for the farmers in the flooded areas. He stated that the department had received significant support from the Thai Rice Millers Association, the Community Rice Centre Association (Thailand), and the Thai Farmers and Agriculture Association. These organisations collectively donated the 50 tonnes of rice and the survival bags, distributed through the Department of Rice to aid the affected farmers. “We are committed to standing by our farmers during these challenging times. The support from these associations is invaluable, and it allows us to provide much-needed relief to those who have lost so much due to the floods. We are hopeful that this assistance will help them recover and rebuild.” Thammanat conveyed his support and encouragement to the agricultural community, emphasising the government’s commitment to assisting farmers in their recovery efforts, reported KhaoSod. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-23 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Oil Spill in Bang Saray Bay Sparks Urgent Cleanup Efforts File photo for reference only Local officials in Chon Buri’s Sattahip district are racing against time to prevent an oil spill from reaching Bang Saray Beach. Yesterday, August 22, residents and tourists noticed oil slicks about 3 to 4 kilometres offshore. The spill, believed to be from a large ship, remains unidentified. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336315-massive-oil-slick-threatens-sattahip’s-pristine-shores/?do=findComment&comment=19173934

Oil Spill in Bang Saray Bay Sparks Urgent Cleanup Efforts Local officials in Chon Buri’s Sattahip district are racing against time to prevent an oil spill from reaching Bang Saray Beach. Yesterday, August 22, residents and tourists noticed oil slicks about 3 to 4 kilometres offshore. The spill, believed to be from a large ship, remains unidentified. Government responses include teams from the Bang Saray Sub-District Office, the Maritime Interests Protection Centre, the First Naval Area Command, and the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources. Boom barriers have been installed to block the oil, and cleanup operations are underway. Local fisherman Prajob Rengreep, 60, reported first seeing the spill near Rang Kwian Island days ago. He estimates it to be engine oil, not linked to local fishing boats. Rengreep's concerns were echoed by Rattanawalee Kongsanor, President of Bang Saray Local Fisheries, who warned of severe risks to marine life and the tourism industry if the oil reaches the beach. Efforts to contain and remove the oil are intense, with expectations to complete the task today, August 23. No word yet on investigations into the spill’s origin or potential penalties for responsible parties. File photo for reference only -- 2024-08-23 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Massive oil slick threatens Sattahip’s pristine shores Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail A massive oil slick has been discovered just 4 nautical miles from Bang Saray Beach, sending shockwaves through the local community and environmental groups. The slick, stretching over 2 kilometres, was first reported in the afternoon, igniting fears of its devastating impact on marine life and the booming tourism industry. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336315-massive-oil-slick-threatens-sattahip’s-pristine-shores/

A massive oil slick has been discovered just 4 nautical miles from Bang Saray Beach, sending shockwaves through the local community and environmental groups. The slick, stretching over 2 kilometres, was first reported in the afternoon, igniting fears of its devastating impact on marine life and the booming tourism industry. Bang Saray Community Enterprise for Tourism and Sports chairperson Udom Jittthanom confirmed the grim reality after a thorough investigation via speedboat and aerial surveillance. He disclosed that the oil was initially spotted by a boat operator near Khram Island before spreading towards Koh Ped and the Royal Thai Navy (RTN)’s Chumphol Naval School. The slick is now dangerously close to the shores of Bang Saray Beach. The discovery has left local fishermen and residents in a state of panic, urging authorities to take immediate action. “If this contamination isn’t tackled now, the damage to our marine ecosystems and tourism could be catastrophic.” ourism is the lifeblood of this coastal community, and any harm to its beaches could cripple the local economy. Udom has already sounded the alarm to Mayor Somwang Eamdee of Bang Saray Municipality, pushing for urgent measures to contain the spill before it reaches the beach. The mayor is expected to spearhead an investigation to uncover the source of the spill, determining whether it resulted from illegal discharge or an accidental leak. Those responsible will face the full force of the law, reported Pattaya Mail. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-23 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thaksin Calls for Tax Cuts to Boost Thai Banking Liquidity File photo for reference only Former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra has urged the Bank of Thailand to halve the withholding tax on commercial banks. Speaking at the “Dinner Talk Vision for Thailand 2024” event organised by Nation TV, Thaksin highlighted that reducing this tax would provide banks with the liquidity needed to issue more housing and car loans, thereby tackling the nation’s chronic household debt problem. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336314-thaksin-calls-for-tax-cuts-to-boost-thai-banking-liquidity/

Former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra has urged the Bank of Thailand to halve the withholding tax on commercial banks. Speaking at the “Dinner Talk Vision for Thailand 2024” event organised by Nation TV, Thaksin highlighted that reducing this tax would provide banks with the liquidity needed to issue more housing and car loans, thereby tackling the nation’s chronic household debt problem. 91% of Thai household debt comprises mortgages and vehicle leasing. Thaksin recalled a similar approach during his administration in 2001, where commercial banks eased retail loan restrictions. The government helped by purchasing non-performing loans (NPLs) from banks at half their book value. In his speech, the former prime minister shared his observations since returning from a 17-year self-imposed exile. He noted a decline in the overall wellbeing of Thai citizens, attributing it to economic stress and reduced opportunities. Thaksin emphasised that many have resorted to superstition as a coping mechanism. He criticised the current state of provinces, pointing out unclean towns and poorly designed constructions. Moreover, he raised concerns about the burgeoning underground economy, suggesting its legalisation could help alleviate debt issues. Thaksin also stressed the need for technological advancements in agriculture and industry to enhance the nation's global competitiveness. Expressing desires for a responsive government, Thaksin criticised the bureaucracy for being oversized and inefficient. He has placed hopes on the new government to designate responsible leaders to address these pressing issues, aiming for a brighter economic future for Thailand. The speech underscores Thaksin’s enduring influence and his continued vision for Thai economic and social reform, even after years away from the political spotlight. File photo for reference only -- 2024-08-23 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Unveils 77 Billion Baht Light Rail Plans for Four Cities File photo for reference only The Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) has launched ambitious plans to introduce a light rail system in Phuket, Chiang Mai, Nakhon Ratchasima, and Phitsanulok, with a total budget of 77 billion baht. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336313-thailand-unveils-77-billion-baht-light-rail-plans-for-four-cities/

The Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) has launched ambitious plans to introduce a light rail system in Phuket, Chiang Mai, Nakhon Ratchasima, and Phitsanulok, with a total budget of 77 billion baht. According to the MRTA Deputy Governor, Wittaya Phanmongkol, the estimated costs break down as follows: Phuket at 35 billion baht, Chiang Mai at 30 billion baht, Nakhon Ratchasima at 7 billion baht, and Phitsanulok at approximately 5 billion baht. Detailed project models and investment options are being prepared for submission to the Office of the Commission for the Management of Road Traffic. The MRTA plans to start the bidding process for these projects in 2026, with completion expected by 2027. Construction is slated to commence around 2028. Additionally, the MRTA is advancing the development of the Brown Line, a 22-kilometre route connecting Khae Rai in Nonthaburi to Lam Sali (Bueng Kum) in Bangkok. This 42-billion-baht project is under review, with a 20-baht flat fare policy being considered. Bidding for this project is expected in 2025, with construction beginning in 2026 and operations starting in 2029. Since its inception 32 years ago, the MRTA has launched four electric train lines covering nearly all of Bangkok—spanning a total distance of approximately 150 kilometres—and is working on extensions, including the challenging Orange Line's western section, which will traverse central Bangkok, historic areas, and cross the Chao Phraya River. The MRTA also plans to transfer plots of public land managed by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration to private contractors starting this year. File photo for reference only -- 2024-08-23 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thaksin:10,000 Baht to Reach Vulnerable Groups in Sept Photo: Thai News Agency BANGKOK, Aug 23 (TNA) – Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has announced that 14.5 million vulnerable individuals will receive 10,000 baht each in September. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336246-15-million-people-to-receive-cash-instead-of-digital-wallet-payments/?do=findComment&comment=19173836

Thaksin:10,000 Baht to Reach Vulnerable Groups in Sept BANGKOK, Aug 23 (TNA) – Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has announced that 14.5 million vulnerable individuals will receive 10,000 baht each in September. At the “Vision for Thailand 2024” event, Thaksin presented his vision for the first time since his return. The event was attended by numerous dignitaries, including cabinet ministers, business leaders, and corporate executives. Upon arriving, Thaksin was greeted by a continuous stream of attendees. He shared a table with prominent Thai business figures, including Dhanin Chearavanont, Dhanin Chearavanont, the senior chairman of Charoen Pokphand (CP) Group. Photo: Thai News Agency Full story: Thai News Agency 2024-08-23 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand unveils National Cyber Academy to enhance cybersecurity Picture courtesy of BlueKey IT official website The National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA) has introduced the Thailand National Cyber Academy in a bid to enhance cybersecurity literacy across the nation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336307-thailand-unveils-national-cyber-academy-to-enhance-cybersecurity/

The National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA) has introduced the Thailand National Cyber Academy in a bid to enhance cybersecurity literacy across the nation. Caretaker Digital Economy and Society Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong emphasised that the academy will significantly contribute to the development of IT professionals at all age levels, thereby bolstering national cybersecurity. This initiative is part of the second phase of the NCSA’s comprehensive cybersecurity capacity-building programme, which offers courses on both basic and advanced cybersecurity to those managing critical information infrastructure in the public and private sectors. Prasert noted that the academy serves as a hub for raising cybersecurity awareness among the public, including operational and executive levels within organisations. “We need to have personnel who are well equipped with the capacity to deal with increasingly complex cyber threats.” NCSA Secretary-General Amorn Chomchoey highlighted that in the first phase of the capacity-building programme last year, the agency delivered knowledge and courses via its platforms to various demographics, including youth, working-age individuals, the older, and disabled people. This phase reached over one million users and accumulated more than two million hours of learning. The initial phase also saw the agency collaborate with 14 universities to develop cybersecurity courses for students and launch a cyber-clinic programme, which engaged over 4,000 participants. In related news, the Thailand Cyber Wellness Index 2024, conducted by Advanced Info Service, revealed that more than half of the respondents lacked adequate knowledge and understanding of cybersecurity and safety, particularly in areas posing personal and organisational risks. The survey had 50,965 respondents from across the country. The findings showed that many Thais are unaware of the risks associated with ransomware attacks, using public WiFi for financial transactions, and setting easily guessable passwords like their date of birth, reported Bangkok Post. By Sarishti Arora Picture courtesy of BlueKey IT official website Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-23 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai-Myanmar gates reopen after sudden closure Photo courtesy of The Nation The Burmese border town of Phayathonzu, straddling Thailand and Myanmar, was thrown into chaos when its gates were abruptly shut on August 16. The gates, crucial for the movement of goods and people, left locals in a lurch. However, on August 20, relief came as the gates were reopened, much to the delight of residents and traders, one Phayathonzu local said. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336306-thai-myanmar-gates-reopen-after-sudden-closure/

The Burmese border town of Phayathonzu, straddling Thailand and Myanmar, was thrown into chaos when its gates were abruptly shut on August 16. The gates, crucial for the movement of goods and people, left locals in a lurch. However, on August 20, relief came as the gates were reopened, much to the delight of residents and traders, one Phayathonzu local said. “From this morning, people have been freely crossing the border again, including through the Kyaung Pauk Wa gate in Ward 1. “Coffee milk packages are finally being transported to the Thai side. Essential items like rice, onion, and chilli powder can be imported again. When the border was suddenly closed, goods stranded on the Myanmar side were finally allowed to be delivered.” The border closure had caused significant disruption, particularly for Myanmar migrant workers who rely on daily access to the Thai side for employment. Schoolchildren who attend classes in Thailand were also left stranded, and vendors who frequent the Shan market in Thailand faced severe setbacks. The shutdown was a response to protests by locals on the Thai side, who blocked Road No. 323, connecting Samkhla Buri and Dulaghapon in Kanchanaburi province. This led to a halt in the flow of goods, workers, students, and vendors, all of whom were left in limbo. In desperation, Phayathonzu residents staged their protest on August 17, demanding the reopening of the gates. The outcry prompted border officials from both countries to negotiate, leading to the eventual reopening. In total, 22 border trade gates, including the Phayathonzu Border Gate, have resumed operations, though locals report frequent closures and reopenings. Among the officially opened crossings are Tachileik-Mae Sai, Myawady-Mae Sot, Htikhee-Phu Nam Ron, and Kawthoung-Ranong, where people can now travel using passports or temporary permits, 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

Thaksin drops bombshell on fallout with Prawit Photo courtesy of Thai PBS World Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has finally broken his silence on the real reason behind his dramatic fallout with General Prawit Wongsuwan, the ex-military strongman and current leader of the embattled Palang Pracharath Party. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336305-thaksin-drops-bombshell-on-fallout-with-prawit/

Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has finally broken his silence on the real reason behind his dramatic fallout with General Prawit Wongsuwan, the ex-military strongman and current leader of the embattled Palang Pracharath Party. During a question-and-answer session following his keynote speech on Thailand’s future at an event hosted by The Nation media group last night, Thaksin spilled the beans on the tensions that severed his relationship with Prawit. The 75 year old former premier recalled that the cracks began to show when Prawit, then set to retire as army chief in 2005, sought Thaksin’s backing to head Thailand’s top anti-corruption agency. Thaksin, in a tone laced with condescension, reminisced about how Prawit owed his rise through the military ranks to him. “It was me who appointed him as commander of the First Army Region.” Thaksin referred to the powerful unit notorious for its involvement in past coups. Prawit eventually climbed to the top of the military hierarchy, becoming army commander-in-chief and playing a pivotal role in the 2006 coup that ousted Thaksin’s government. The breaking point, according to Thaksin, came when Prawit requested to be made chairman of the National Anti-Corruption Commission after retiring. “‘What? A general in charge of an anti-corruption agency? What does he know about all the laws involved?’” This remark, Thaksin revealed, was somehow conveyed to Prawit, marking the end of their camaraderie. Since his return from self-exile last August, Thaksin admits he hasn’t been in contact with Prawit. “Why would I want to talk to him?” Meanwhile, Prawit’s Palang Pracharath Party is facing internal turmoil, with MPs rebelling against his leadership as they seek to continue their alliance with Pheu Thai on their terms, reported Thai PBS World. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Thai PBS World Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-23 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Tragedy in Bangkok: Woman Dies After Livestream Argument File photo for reference only In the early hours of August 23, a tragic incident occurred in Bangkok's Khlong San district, where a woman fell to her death from a fourth-floor balcony following an altercation with her husband. The argument reportedly began when the husband attempted to livestream himself nude on TikTok. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336304-tragedy-in-bangkok-woman-dies-after-livestream-argument/

In the early hours of August 23, a tragic incident occurred in Bangkok's Khlong San district, where a woman fell to her death from a fourth-floor balcony following an altercation with her husband. The argument reportedly began when the husband attempted to livestream himself nude on TikTok. Emergency services were alerted to the event at approximately 3:30am. Responders included police from Samre Police Station, forensic officers, and medical examiners from Chulalongkorn Hospital. Upon arrival, they found the body of 32-year-old Han, a Laotian national, lying outside her residential building. Han had sustained severe injuries, including a fractured skull and broken limbs. The incident took place in a four-story building with rental apartments. Han’s husband, 41-year-old Somsak, was present at the scene and provided his account to the authorities. He explained that the couple had been drinking heavily throughout the evening. The situation escalated when Somsak attempted to disrobe on a TikTok livestream, causing Han to protest vehemently. “This is disgusting, why would you do that?” Han reportedly exclaimed, which then led to a heated argument. Amidst the dispute, Han suddenly leapt from the balcony. Somsak, still under the influence, hurried downstairs, wrapped in only a towel, to find his wife deceased. He notified the police immediately. Captain Thaworn from the local police shared that preliminary investigations suggest Han’s jump was an impulsive act driven by emotional distress following the argument. Further evidence, including witness interviews and analysis of CCTV footage, is being collected to corroborate this theory and better understand the circumstances that led to this tragic event. Both Han and Somsak were working-class individuals, with Han employed as a garment worker and Somsak engaged in casual labour. The full impact of this event on their community remains to be seen as investigators continue to piece together the pivotal moments that led to Han’s untimely death. File photo for reference only -- 2024-08-23 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai man accuses cop of assault after he honked truck horn - video Photo by Ian Fuller via Flickr A Thai man accused a police officer in Samut Prakan province, near Bangkok, of physically assaulting him, even though he did not violate any laws and only honked his truck horn to greet a passing friend. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336302-thai-man-accuses-cop-of-assault-after-he-honked-truck-horn-video/