snoop1130

Man scammed out of 16,000 baht in Facebook amulet auction Picture courtesy of Siamrath A man reported being scammed out of 16,000 baht after attempting to bid on a valuable amulet on Facebook, only to be blocked by the page and left empty-handed. The police are now investigating the incident. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336108-man-scammed-out-of-16000-baht-in-facebook-amulet-auction/

A man reported being scammed out of 16,000 baht after attempting to bid on a valuable amulet on Facebook, only to be blocked by the page and left empty-handed. The police are now investigating the incident. Yesterday, August 20, a 38 year old man identified as “A” went to the Mueang Udon Thani Police Station to file a report. He explained that he had participated in an online auction for a Luang Pu Thuat amulet, a highly revered item, through a Facebook page called เนท ลำปาง LIVE, which boasted around 50,000 followers. Given the page’s substantial following, it appeared reputable, prompting him to join the auction. “I saw the page advertising an auction for a Luang Pu Thuat amulet from Wat Pradu Chimphli, dating back to 1978 to 1980. This particular amulet is known for its high value, often reaching millions of baht due to its historical and religious significance.” The auction began with a starting bid of 13,000 baht (US$380), with increments of 500 baht (US$15). The auction was set to close at 3pm. As the bidding progressed, A noticed several participants, potentially shill bidders, driving up the price to 15,000 baht (US$440). Determined to secure the amulet, he placed a final bid of 16,000 baht (US$470). Shortly after the auction closed, he received a message at 3.03pm confirming his winning bid and providing bank account details for the payment. To ensure the transaction’s legitimacy, he requested to see the seller’s ID card to verify that the name matched the bank account details. The page complied and sent a matching ID. Although the page offered additional amulets for purchase, A declined and asked them to ship the item he had won. He also requested the tracking number for the shipment for his verification. Amulet scam However, when he checked his messages the next morning, he found that he had been blocked by the auction page, and the page itself was no longer visible. Realising he had been deceived, he also received warnings from others who had fallen victim to the same scam, prompting him to file a police report, reported KhaoSod. “I felt uneasy when I couldn’t see the page anymore. Then, I received messages from others who had been scammed by the same page, which confirmed my fears. That’s when I decided to go to the police.” The Mueang Udon Thani Police are now investigating the case, aiming to track down the individuals behind the fraudulent Facebook page. They are urging others who may have been scammed by the same page to come forward and provide information to assist in their investigation. By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Siamrath Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-21 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai women fight Kuwaiti tourists in Soi Bangla, Phuket - video Photo via Facebook/ โหดจัง จังหวัดภูเก็ต Netizens have called on Patong Police Station officers and Phuket administrative officials to intensify their efforts in safeguarding the province’s reputation, following yet another physical altercation on Soi Bangla. Reports indicate that the incident involved Thai women and Kuwaiti tourists. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336107-thai-women-fight-kuwaiti-tourists-in-soi-bangla-phuket-video/

Netizens have called on Patong Police Station officers and Phuket administrative officials to intensify their efforts in safeguarding the province’s reputation, following yet another physical altercation on Soi Bangla. Reports indicate that the incident involved Thai women and Kuwaiti tourists. The news Facebook page, โหดจัง จังหวัดภูเก็ต (translated as “So Brutal, Phuket Province”), shared a video today, August 21, showing Thai women and foreign tourists, later identified as Kuwaiti, engaged in a physical altercation. The page also criticised the work of Patong Police Station officers and the superintendent. “You all make a living on Soi Bangla, Patong, and Phuket, but never protect its image. You always damage the reputation of this tourist destination. So brutal. Fighting each other over a man. “Patong Police Station officers and the superintendent, please be more active. Stop boasting about your football skills. Have as much passion for your work as you do for football. Locals know that drugs and illegal items are everywhere in the area you supervise, but you don’t. It’s so embarrassing. Please work as hard as the Commissioner of Police Region 8 trusts you to. Do more, speak less.” In the video, a Thai woman in a long black dress can be seen arguing with a group of foreign tourists, consisting of three men and one woman, on Bangla Road. Another Thai woman in a white dress joined the argument before the first one in black threw her shoe at a Kuwaiti man in a black shirt. Police criticised The foreign man attempted to kick her in the head but she managed to avoid it. The group of foreigners then tried to leave the scene but the Thai women followed and attacked them in the middle of the road. A Thai man in a blue shirt suddenly appears, brandishing a knife. He attempted to slash one of the foreign men but missed and then left the scene. Many Thai netizens condemned the police for their inaction, stating that altercations occur almost every day at the same time, between 4am and 6am, but no police officers are ever present. Others focused on the man in the blue shirt, saying he should not be carrying a knife in public. According to a report on Amarin TV, the incident did not involve Thai women on Soi Bangla, but rather four Kuwaiti nationals and three Thai women. The altercation began inside an entertainment venue when a Thai woman poured alcohol over the Kuwaiti woman. The media reported that the police intervened and escorted both parties to the police station for questioning and further legal proceedings. However, the police have not yet come forward to clarify the incident and the legal punishment for those involved. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ โหดจัง จังหวัดภูเก็ต Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-21 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Mystery death in Nonthaburi linked to blue notebook message Picture courtesy of Matichon A mysterious death in Nonthaburi has taken a significant turn with the discovery of a blue notebook containing a poignant message. Police found the body of a 72 year old woman, hanging in her home, with officers unsure whether the death was suicide or murder. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336106-mystery-death-in-nonthaburi-linked-to-blue-notebook-message/

A mysterious death in Nonthaburi has taken a significant turn with the discovery of a blue notebook containing a poignant message. Police found the body of a 72 year old woman, hanging in her home, with officers unsure whether the death was suicide or murder. Sommai’s body was discovered in her residence in the Suhrao Phranangklao Community, Bang Krasor subdistrict, Mueang district, Nonthaburi province. Inside the house, her daughter, 47 year old Famai, was found in a drug-induced state, unable to coherently explain the situation. She claimed ignorance about her mother’s death, despite the body having been there for nearly two days. At 4pm yesterday, August 20, Police Colonel Pisut Chantarasuwan, along with forensic officers, revisited the crime scene to conduct a more thorough investigation. During this visit, they discovered a blue notebook under a kitchen shelf near where Sommai’s body was found. The notebook contained a handwritten message. “I can’t live with a drug addict. I want to die.” The police presented the notebook to Sommai’s relatives, who confirmed that the handwriting matched Sommai’s. This evidence has been seized and will undergo further analysis to confirm its authenticity and relevance to the case, reported KhaoSod. By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Matichon Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-21 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pita vows to reform Thailand’s broken political system Photo courtesy of The Nation Thailand’s political arena has been thrown into disarray once again, as Pita Limjaroenrat, the embattled leader of the now-dissolved Move Forward Party (MFP), issues a stark warning: without judicial reform, the country will continue to go around in circles. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336105-pita-vows-to-reform-thailand’s-broken-political-system/

Thailand’s political arena has been thrown into disarray once again, as Pita Limjaroenrat, the embattled leader of the now-dissolved Move Forward Party (MFP), issues a stark warning: without judicial reform, the country will continue to go around in circles. Pita’s comments follow two seismic court rulings that not only disbanded his progressive party but also ousted a prime minister, leaving the nation in a state of uncertainty. The former MFP leader, who was barred from politics for a decade, remains defiant. “A 10-year ban won’t break my resolve.” The 43 year old former politician emphasised his commitment to pushing for major reforms aimed at depoliticising independent institutions. Reflecting on the chaotic cycle of coups and court rulings that have plagued Thailand for two decades, Pita remarked that people confuse movement with progress. “It’s almost like we’re going somewhere, but actually, we’re going nowhere.” The political turbulence in Thailand is far from new, with the country trapped in a relentless tug-of-war between popular political parties and an entrenched establishment closely linked to the military and judiciary. This ongoing struggle has seen multiple governments toppled, often by court rulings that critics argue overstep their jurisdiction. In a scathing critique, 134 Thai academics and legal experts echoed Pita’s concerns, accusing the courts of damaging public trust in both the legal system and democracy itself. Despite the recent blows, Pita is not stepping away quietly. He plans to return to Harvard University as a democracy fellow and is even contemplating writing a memoir of his tumultuous political journey, reported The Nation. While Thailand’s political landscape remains volatile, Pita remains optimistic about his eventual return. “I’ll be waiting for my time. I still very much want to bring about change in Thailand.” Pita promises to come back stronger and more prepared to lead the nation through its most challenging times. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-21 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Key to the scam: Woman’s repair complaint uncovers fraud ring Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A 27 year old woman questioned the high cost of a motorcycle key repair, leading to the discovery of numerous scam victims and a subsequent police report. Victims were overcharged and received substandard repairs from a deceitful technician. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336104-key-to-the-scam-woman’s-repair-complaint-uncovers-fraud-ring/

A 27 year old woman questioned the high cost of a motorcycle key repair, leading to the discovery of numerous scam victims and a subsequent police report. Victims were overcharged and received substandard repairs from a deceitful technician. Thidarat shared her experience of being scammed on a popular Rangsit community page. On August 12, her Honda Wave 110 motorcycle key broke, and she sought a repair technician through the page. The perpetrator contacted her, claiming to be a reliable technician. Expecting the repair to cost no more than 2,000 baht (US$60), Thidarat was shocked when she was charged 4,500 baht (US$130) after the repair. Thidarat paid the amount in cash as she was alone and the technician provided a minimal explanation, claiming that the LED parts used were expensive, costing 2,500 baht (US$75). Later, when her partner returned from work, they questioned the high cost, noting that such a repair should only cost a few hundred baht. Moreover, the technician did not provide any receipts. “I was alone and felt pressured to pay. When I asked for an explanation, he blocked me.” Thidarat then returned to the Rangsit community page to ask if the price was reasonable and was quickly informed she had been scammed. Upon investigating further, Thidarat found numerous complaints about the same technician by searching his name on Google. She had his name because she transferred him 1 baht to obtain his phone number. With this information, Thidarat decided to file a police report. Similarly, Weerayut, a 36 year old man, shared his ordeal. His home air conditioner began leaking, so he posted on the same Rangsit community page seeking a technician. Chaiwat responded, and Weerayut called him for the repair. Chaiwat seemingly fixed the issue by stuffing a rag into the unit and charged Weerayut 2,700 baht (US$80). “Initially, the air conditioner seemed fine, but shortly after, it started leaking again.” When Weerayut posted his experience on the Rangsit page, he found numerous comments from others who had been deceived by Chaiwat. Victims reported that Chaiwat’s repairs were ineffective, and they were charged exorbitant prices, reported KhaoSod. With mounting evidence, Weerayut decided to report the incident to Police Lieutenant Sawat Kongkaew at the Pratunam Chulalongkorn Police Station to prevent Chaiwat from scamming others. By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-21 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Two Boys Die in Reservoir While Looking for Lost Motorcycle Key File photo for reference only A tragic incident took place at a reservoir when two young boys drowned while they were attempting to retrieve a lost motorcycle key from the water. Their bodies were not recovered even after a four-hour search by divers. The search operations were stopped on August 19. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336035-two-boys-die-in-reservoir-while-looking-for-lost-motorcycle-key/

A tragic incident took place at a reservoir when two young boys drowned while they were attempting to retrieve a lost motorcycle key from the water. Their bodies were not recovered even after a four-hour search by divers. The search operations were stopped on August 19. The incident was reported to Police Lieutenant Methasit Wongpadsa of Khemarat Police Station in Ubon Ratchathani. Two rescue teams from Ubon Ratchathani-Jeetamko Foundation and Thewa Khemarat Rescue Association were immediately assembled to look for the boys in the Huai Na Muang Reservoir in Na Waeng subdistrict, Khemarat district. The two boys, aged 14 and 15, had travelled to the reservoir with the 15-year-old's elder sibling and four of their friends from their village. They reached the reservoir on three motorcycles, intending to play in the water and clean their motorcycles. The tragedy occurred when the 14-year-old kid's pants' pocket tore, which resulted in his motorcycle key falling into the reservoir. He enlisted the help of the older boy to find his lost key. Unfortunately, both boys got caught in a strong current and vanished under the water. The rescue team conducted an underwater search for over four hours, but their efforts were hindered by dense layers of water hyacinths in the reservoir, and the search had to be halted. Awaji, the elder brother of the 15-year-old and a 17-year-old himself, narrated that they had arrived at the reservoir at 4pm the previous day to swim and wash their motorcycles. The younger boys ventured into the water to play when the 14-year-old reported losing his key due to a torn pocket. Awaji had advised against going into the water to retrieve the key due to the risky current. Sadly, his advice was not heeded, leading to the boys being swept away by the strong current and their subsequent drowning. File photo for reference only -- 2024-08-20 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Suspect in Police's killing granted bail by Hua Hin court File photo for reference only The accused in a fatal shooting of a sergeant in a local pub has been given bail by a Hua Hin court. The head of the Hua Hin Police Station's Police Affairs Monitoring Committee confirmed that the suspect has been suspended to ensure a fair investigation and comfort the victim's family. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336034-suspect-in-polices-killing-granted-bail-by-hua-hin-court/

The accused in a fatal shooting of a sergeant in a local pub has been given bail by a Hua Hin court. The head of the Hua Hin Police Station's Police Affairs Monitoring Committee confirmed that the suspect has been suspended to ensure a fair investigation and comfort the victim's family. The accused is 34-year-old Jagkrit, an advisor to the Hua Hin Police Affairs Monitoring Committee in Prachuap Khiri Khan province. He is accused of shooting and killing 31-year-old Sergeant Rochnaporn, also known as Sergeant Punch, a soldier from the Thanarat Camp in Pranburi. The incident happened after a fight at a pub in the Hua Hin 80 area within the Hua Hin municipality. The fight, which happened late at night on August 18, also resulted in three people being injured from stray bullets. Sergeant Punch's family has declared they won't cremate his body until justice is served. On August 19, it was reported that the Hua Hin Provincial Court has approved Jagkrit's bail, with a bond set at 500,000 baht. Worapot Limakom, the head of the Police Affairs Monitoring Committee, revealed that an investigative panel was quickly formed to look into the incident after it happened. After finding evidence of Jagkrit's guilt, the committee decided to remove him from his advisory role. This was done to ensure a thorough police investigation and to show Sergeant Punch's family that Jagkrit would not be given any special treatment. As for the appointment of advisors, Worapot emphasized that a thorough background check is standard procedure. Anyone can become an advisor as long as they have a clean criminal record and no tainted past. Worapot said, “We have done everything necessary for a fair and transparent investigation. Our committee does not tolerate misconduct, and we want the public and the victim's family to know this.” Meanwhile, the pub where the shooting happened, which lacked proper licensing, has been ordered to close for five years. The police are also taking legal action against the owner for running an illegal venue. File photo for reference only -- 2024-08-20 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

After 62 Years of Operation, Tang Hua Seng Department Store Struggles In Customer Numbers File photo for reference only For more than six decades, the Tang Hua Seng Department Store has been a favorite shopping spot in Thonburi. However, this well-known store is currently experiencing a troubling drop in customer numbers. It's become increasingly deserted, leading to concerns that it might close down soon. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336033-after-62-years-of-operation-tang-hua-seng-department-store-struggles-in-customer-numbers/

For more than six decades, the Tang Hua Seng Department Store has been a favorite shopping spot in Thonburi. However, this well-known store is currently experiencing a troubling drop in customer numbers. It's become increasingly deserted, leading to concerns that it might close down soon. Tang Hua Seng has two branches in Thonburi and Bang Lamphu and has been a regular stop for most locals. A Twitter user, @Ma_Mon, recently highlighted the challenging situation at the Thonburi branch using pictures and personal stories, indicating a noticeable drop in shoppers and activities. The store looked empty and gloomy, it seems like just a few floors were running. The craft sections based on the third floor were a bit busy, while the first floor that sold clothes and cosmetics carried only a few brands. Additionally, the store's grocery section was now limited to the basement. A multitude of sentimental comments recalling old memories flooded in from social media users when they learnt about Tang Hua Seng's struggling state. A large number of them confessed they hadn't visited the store in several years, while some were upset about the possible shut down. Some comments spoke of special experiences and a longing to keep the store open. Others looked back on their earlier interactions while expressing sadness at the store's current state. Many acknowledged the store's efforts in trying to stay afloat amid increased competition from larger retail chains. The plight of Tang Hua Seng showcases an overarching shift in customer behavior and the growing dominance of more contemporary, larger retail formats. There were also nostalgic mentions of various services offered in earlier times and the hope that such unique offerings could help its revival. File photo for reference only -- 2024-08-20 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Tipsy temple: Chiang Mai abbot arrested for boozing during Lent Photo courtesy of Shutterstock Police arrested the abbot of a well-known Chiang Mai temple after he was found drinking beer with monks during the Buddhist Lent. This arrest followed multiple complaints from locals. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336032-tipsy-temple-chiang-mai-abbot-arrested-for-boozing-during-lent/

Police arrested the abbot of a well-known Chiang Mai temple after he was found drinking beer with monks during the Buddhist Lent. This arrest followed multiple complaints from locals. Officers from Mae Jo Police Station in Chiang Mai, led by Police Colonel Naruebal Jittayanunk, were asked yesterday, August 19, by Buddhist officials to investigate and apprehend monks at a temple in the Nong Han, San Sai district. The monks were reported to be drinking alcohol within the temple grounds. Upon arrival, the police detained two monks who were caught drinking beer. Among them was the abbot. The monks were taken to Mae Jo Police Station for questioning. The abbot was defrocked and released on bail, with a court appearance scheduled for August 20. The charges included drinking alcohol or intoxicants within a temple, punishable by up to six months in prison or a fine of up to 10,000 baht, or both. Furthermore, monks found guilty of such offences face dual penalties: defrocking for violating Buddhist monastic codes and legal punishment under the Alcohol Control Act. Walla Namwongphrom, a member of the Chiang Mai Provincial Cultural Council, stressed that the law prohibits the consumption of alcohol in temples and schools. The penalties are severe, especially for monks who, in addition to fines and imprisonment, must also be defrocked. He emphasised the importance of adhering to these regulations and issued a stern warning to monks, novices, and businesses near temples or schools. Selling or consuming alcohol in these areas is strictly forbidden. Establishments such as hotels and service venues near temples or schools are also prohibited from selling alcohol. He urged all monks and novices to strictly follow the rules and reminded business owners of their responsibilities under the law, reported KhaoSod. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Shutterstock Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-20 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Viral video captures playful water theft at red light in Phuket File photo for reference only A viral video has taken social media by storm, showing a young man on a motorcycle stopping next to a pickup truck at a red light and quenching his thirst with water from a cooler at the back of the truck. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336031-viral-video-captures-playful-water-theft-at-red-light-in-phuket/

A viral video has taken social media by storm, showing a young man on a motorcycle stopping next to a pickup truck at a red light and quenching his thirst with water from a cooler at the back of the truck. A TikTok user named Golfkador yesterday, August 19, shared the clip, which quickly became popular across various social media platforms. In the video, the poster is seen stopping at a red light behind a man sitting on a motorcycle. The man then reaches over to open the cooler at the back of a nearby pickup truck and helps himself to a drink. The person inside the truck looks back and smiles. The 14-second clip, captioned someone stealing water has garnered significant attention and sparked lively discussions online. The video not only amused many but also prompted a variety of reactions. It received 11K likes and was shared over 400 times shortly after being posted. Commenters joined in the fun, speculating and joking about the situation. “Wait, did they come together?” “Hey, what kind of water was that, young man?” Others found the interaction endearing. “Both the drinker and the owner’s smile are so cute.” “Who to pity first, the person inside the car or the one outside?” “The traffic light took too long; he got thirsty.” Further inquiry Upon further inquiry, the original poster revealed more context about the incident. The poster stated that they had stopped at a three-way intersection near Prince of Songkla University, Phuket Campus, in Kathu district, Phuket province. “The young man on the motorcycle in front of their car is their younger brother, and they are acquainted with the pickup truck’s owner. The entire video was shared on TikTok as a playful teasing of the poster’s sibling.” Social media users continued to engage with the video, adding their thoughts and jokes. Despite the initial impression of a stranger stealing water, the revelation that the individuals involved knew each other added a layer of humour and camaraderie to the clip. The playful nature of the interaction and the friendly smile from the truck’s owner resonated with viewers, making the video a light-hearted highlight amid the daily hustle and bustle. The TikTok post, shared under the username Golfkador, demonstrated the power of social media in turning everyday moments into viral sensations. The clip’s success underscores how simple, relatable content can capture the attention and imagination of a wide audience, sparking conversations and connecting people through shared experiences and laughter, reported Khaosod. By Sarishti Arora Picture courtesy of Khaosod official website Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-20 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Parliament rings in complaint strategy with medieval twist Photo via Channel 3 The Government of Thailand reintroduced a traditional 13th-century method of lodging complaints, by encouraging residents to ring a bell outside the Parliament building to voice their grievances and concerns. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336030-thai-parliament-rings-in-complaint-strategy-with-medieval-twist/

The Government of Thailand reintroduced a traditional 13th-century method of lodging complaints, by encouraging residents to ring a bell outside the Parliament building to voice their grievances and concerns. Channel 3 reported today, August 20, that a brand-new bell, crafted in a traditional Thai style, was placed outside the government contact centre at the Parliament building about a week ago. The media explained that this bell is intended to be used by residents seeking assistance from government officials. This reminded Thai history enthusiasts of the traditional method of filing complaints during the Sukhothai Kingdom under the reign of King Ram Khamhaeng, around the 13th century. The king offered a similar bell outside his palace, urging locals to ring it when they needed help from the king. The media questioned whether this complaint-lodging method contradicts the government’s policy to create a “Smart Parliament,” which was pursued while Chuan Leekpai was the Speaker of the House of Representatives between 2019 and 2023. The second Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Pichet Chuamuangpan, explained in an interview with Channel 3 that the bell is merely a symbol representing the place where people can seek help. According to Pichet, government officials would be on standby in the office behind the bell, ready to listen to people’s complaints, especially during parliamentary meetings on Wednesdays and Thursdays when multiple complaints are typically lodged. When asked whether the bell contradicts the “Smart Parliament” policy, an official in the office behind the bell told the media that it is not about modernity but rather about the different working styles of each Speaker of the House of Representatives. However, the bell and the office behind it have not yet been officially operated, as evidenced by the plastic sheet still wrapped around the bell. Parliament officials have not yet disclosed when the bell and officials will be ready to receive complaints. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 3 Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-20 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Government to Restrict Use of Digital Gadgets in Schools File photo for reference only The Education Ministry has voiced its intent to limit the use of digital gadgets in schools, sparked by worries over the negative effects on children's development. Education Minister, Pol Gen Permpoon Chidchob, mentioned research that suggests excessive use of smartphones and tablets can distract students and slow down their intellectual growth. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336026-government-to-restrict-use-of-digital-gadgets-in-schools/

The Education Ministry has voiced its intent to limit the use of digital gadgets in schools, sparked by worries over the negative effects on children's development. Education Minister, Pol Gen Permpoon Chidchob, mentioned research that suggests excessive use of smartphones and tablets can distract students and slow down their intellectual growth. This same strategy has been adopted across the globe, with some nations prohibiting students under 16 from using digital gadgets during school time. In Thailand, it has been found through research that children who engage with screens for more than six and a half hours daily tend to display lower IQs and shorter concentration spans. To tackle these problems, the Education Council Office has suggested an increase in outdoor activities, such as music classes and sports. They are also advocating for more reading and storytelling periods to increase children's ability to focus. Parents will be urged to spend more quality time with their kids to lessen their dependence on digital gadgets. File photo for reference only -- 2024-08-20 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya Mayor Unveils Plan to Address Ongoing Flood Issues Photo: The Pattaya News The Mayor of Pattaya, Mr. Poramase Ngampiches, has unveiled plans to deal with the chronic flooding problem in Pattaya city. The plan will focus on reducing the water that flows from higher regions into Pattaya, through a water redirection scheme to the Huai Yai water storage area. This project had been previously delayed by a high-speed rail project. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336024-pattaya-mayor-unveils-plan-to-address-ongoing-flood-issues/