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A 69 year old man has been arrested for stealing expensive branded shoes from outside a renowned temple in Bangkok. The suspect confessed to selling the stolen shoes at a low price in the second-hand market. On June 4, the Superintendent of Samran Rat Police Station, Police Colonel Thotsaphon Ampaipipatkul alongside the investigation team ordered the arrest of the 69 year old Thirawat for shoe theft. He was caught with a pair of white and grey New Balance shoes in front of the main chapel of Wat Suthat, located in the Sao Chingcha district of Phra Nakhon, Bangkok. The arrest followed a report filed on May 25 by a victim who visited Wat Suthat. The victim had left his shoes outside the chapel for about an hour and returned to find them missing. The authorities reviewed CCTV footage from the area, which showed an elderly Thai man picking out the shoes. The footage led the police to identify the suspect, who matched the description of an individual previously reported for similar thefts. Further scrutiny of the CCTV evidence revealed that the suspect was attempting to steal another pair of shoes from Wat Suthat. The police intervened and apprehended him on the spot. During questioning, the suspect admitted to being the same person who had stolen the branded shoes. He revealed that he had kept the stolen shoes in a rented room in Nonthaburi, intending to sell them as second-hand goods at a lower price. The suspect also confessed that he specifically targeted expensive branded shoes and had committed similar thefts multiple times before being caught in the act this time. The police have charged him with theft or receiving stolen property and transferred him to the Samran Rat Police Station for further investigations, reported Khaosod. Wat Suthat, a significant cultural and religious site in Bangkok, attracts numerous visitors daily. Incidents like these disrupt the peaceful environment and cause inconvenience to devotees. This incident highlights the effectiveness of CCTV surveillance in solving crimes. The police’s swift response and thorough investigation led to the arrest of the suspect, ensuring that justice was served and preventing further thefts in the area. By Nattapong Westwood Image courtesy of Khaosod Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

British mum’s dengue fever warning after son’s Thai holiday tragedy Picture of Bob Toulson-Burke courtesy of his mother Jane A crestfallen British mother urged travellers ahead of the holiday season to be wary of dengue fever after losing her son to the disease while he was on holiday in Thailand. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328951-british-mum’s-dengue-fever-warning-after-son’s-thai-holiday-tragedy/

A crestfallen British mother urged travellers ahead of the holiday season to be wary of dengue fever after losing her son to the disease while he was on holiday in Thailand. The heartbroken mother, Jayne Toulson-Burke, recalled the last devastating phone call from her son, Bob, just before he died from the disease several years ago. The 59 year old revealed her son’s last words after he called to say he was in a hospital in Phuket in December 2016, where he would eventually succumb to dengue fever. “I’ve got to go now. I can’t breathe and they are putting a tube down my throat.” Toulson-Burke from Davenport in Stockport made known that it was the last time she ever heard from her son as he died on December 7, 2016. “He went into a coma and never regained consciousness.” Patong hospital Bob took ill on a flight from Laos to Thailand. He and his friends sought medical attention in Patong, where he was initially diagnosed with just flu. Despite being transferred to Phuket for further treatment, he never recovered. The grief-stricken mother reflected on whether her son’s fate could have been different with better knowledge about the virus. “I have absolutely no doubt in that. He’s a sensible boy. He wouldn’t take risks. He doesn’t even like heights. He’s a sensible lad. If he had known, if I had known, the outcome would surely have been different because when he first fell ill, he would have insisted on a test.” She stressed the importance for travellers to recognise the symptoms of dengue fever and to demand a blood test at hospitals to confirm the virus and begin treatment, reported the Manchester Evening News. The World Health Organisation highlights that around four billion people across 130 countries are vulnerable to dengue, a mosquito-borne virus prevalent in tropical and subtropical areas globally, including some European regions. Travel Health Pro, part of the Foreign Office, issued warnings that dengue is encroaching into areas previously considered disease-free. Since the beginning of 2024, there have been more than five million reported cases of dengue and over 2,000 deaths linked to the virus as of April 2024. Dengue fever has surged worldwide, with Asia, Central and South America, and the Caribbean bearing the brunt. Although not endemic in Europe, Travel Health Pro warned that if the environment encourages mosquito populations – the primary carriers of dengue – travel-related spread could result in local outbreaks in parts of Europe where these insects thrive. Several countries, including France, Italy, and Spain, reported local cases in 2023, according to the Foreign Office subsidiary. Amidst this tragedy, Toulson-Burke was at Liverpool’s passport office sorting out a replacement for her expired document so she could travel to Asia. It was then that the devastating news about her son’s passing reached her ears from another son, Mark, who had hurried to Thailand to be with his dying brother Bob. Toulson-Burke has turned her grief into an awareness campaign against dengue. “You might think this only happens in the tropics or Asia. It doesn’t. It’s in Europe now. If Bob had known, if I had known more about this, he would have had more of a chance. People think it won’t affect them, but it may affect them if they travel.” What is dengue Dengue is an illness caused by a virus transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito, primarily active during daylight hours, according to an alert published on Travel Health Pro’s website in early May. There are four distinct types of the dengue virus: DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4. As per Travel Health Pro, the majority of individuals infected with dengue may not exhibit any symptoms. Dengue treatments If illness develops, it typically manifests suddenly with symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, muscle and joint pain, nausea, vomiting, and a rash. Most infections are self-limiting, with rapid recovery usually occurring three to four days after the rash appears. Are there treatments available for dengue? A small percentage of infected individuals may progress to develop a severe form of the illness, known as severe dengue, previously referred to as dengue haemorrhagic fever. Symptoms of severe dengue include dangerously low blood pressure (shock), fluid accumulation in the lungs, and severe bleeding (haemorrhage). According to Travel Health Pro, all four types of dengue virus infection can lead to either dengue or severe dengue. Currently, there is no specific drug treatment for severe dengue illness. However, supportive treatments for shock and bleeding are available, which can improve survival rates. Without such interventions, severe dengue illness can be fatal. Travelling advice Travel Health Pro says all travellers, including cruise passengers, who are visiting areas where dengue cases have been reported or where dengue is believed to be present, are at risk of infection. Refer to the ‘other risks’ section on Travel Health Pro’s country information web pages to assess the dengue risk at your destination and for specific advice about other health risks. Check the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) country advice for safety and security information for your destination. Consult your GP, practice nurse, pharmacist or travel clinic to ensure all your recommended travel vaccines and UK routine vaccines, including MMR, are up-to-date. There is a live, attenuated (weakened) dengue vaccine called Qdenga licensed in the United Kingdom, but it is not suitable for all travellers. By Bob Scott Picture of Bob Toulson-Burke courtesy of his mother Jane Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Indonesia seeks Thai help to capture fugitive drug lord Picture courtesy of CBS News Indonesian police have requested Thailand’s assistance in locating and arresting a wanted drug lord believed to be hiding in the kingdom. This request follows the recent arrest of fugitive Chaowalit Thongduang by Indonesian authorities. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328948-indonesia-seeks-thai-help-to-capture-fugitive-drug-lord/

Indonesian police have requested Thailand’s assistance in locating and arresting a wanted drug lord believed to be hiding in the kingdom. This request follows the recent arrest of fugitive Chaowalit Thongduang by Indonesian authorities. The chief of Indonesia’s narcotics division, Police Brigader General Mukhi Juharsa, announced on Sunday that the Indonesian National Police (POLRI) are seeking the capture of Fredy Pratama. This exchange is being proposed in return for the extradition of Chaowalit, also known as Paeng Nanode, said Juharsa in a statement issued on Sunday. “There’s a favour, there’s a return. We ask Thailand to also capture Fredy.” The request was officially submitted to the Royal Thai Police Office, as stated by Polri on its X account, formerly Twitter. According to reports, the fugitive is hiding in a forest in Thailand, reported by Malaysia’s Bernama news agency. Fredy Pratama is alleged to be the leader of a syndicate connected to gangs across Southeast Asia, including Thailand and Malaysia. His network is involved in the trafficking of methamphetamine pills sourced from the Golden Triangle, Indonesian police claim. Authorities from Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand dismantled part of this gang in September last year, arresting 39 individuals during a coordinated three-nation operation. Despite these efforts, Fredy remains at large. Wahyu Widada, the chief of the Indonesian national police criminal investigation department, revealed in September that Fredy’s network had accumulated assets worth more than 10.5 trillion rupiah (around 24 billion baht) since 2020. These assets include significant real estate holdings, according to Reuters. Chaowalit is scheduled to be extradited from Indonesia to Nakhon Si Thammarat tomorrow, according to the chief of the Indonesian narcotics division. Chaowalit escaped from Maharaj Nakhon Si Thammarat Hospital during a dental visit on October 22 last year. He will be taken directly to Mueang Police Station. At the station, the murder suspect will face interrogation and formal charges related to his escape. The Royal Thai Police have planned robust security measures both at the airport and along the convoy route, although specific details remain undisclosed. By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of CBS News Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Justice Minister Announces Close Watch on Prisoner Who Escaped and Returned from Indonesia File photo for reference only On June 4th, 2024, Thailand's Minister of Justice, Pol. Col. Thawee Sodsong, gave an update on the situation of Mr. Chaowalit "Pang Nanod" Thongduang. Thongduang, a convicted criminal, was recently caught in Indonesia and is in the process of being extradited to Thailand. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328942-justice-minister-announces-close-watch-on-prisoner-who-escaped-and-returned-from-indonesia/

On June 4th, 2024, Thailand's Minister of Justice, Pol. Col. Thawee Sodsong, gave an update on the situation of Mr. Chaowalit "Pang Nanod" Thongduang. Thongduang, a convicted criminal, was recently caught in Indonesia and is in the process of being extradited to Thailand. Thongduang, also known as Pang Nanod, has a previous conviction for theft and misuse of firearms. He was initially given a 21-year sentence in a prison based in Phatthalung Province, his hometown. Later, due to suspected involvement in criminal activities with the mafia while in prison, his custody was transferred to Nakhon Si Thammarat Provincial Prison. Whilst detained in Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thongduang broke free from a hospital after a shootout with the police. He fled to Indonesia, pursued by law enforcement, and managed to escape capture again. It was only after an altercation with a local woman that the Indonesian police were able to arrest him. Thongduang had managed to fool authorities with a fake passport until the Indonesian police detected the forgery. Utilizing modern technology, they were able to verify his true identity. Upon his return to Thailand, it is expected that Thongduang will be held in Nakhon Si Thammarat for questioning and court proceedings, and then he will likely be sent to one of Bangkok's higher security prisons. The Justice Minister plans to meet with the head of the Department of Corrections and other concerned bodies about Thongduang's final destination. To prevent any harm to himself, Thongduang will be under strict monitoring by prison officers. Meanwhile, the Thai police will carry on their investigation to identify anyone that may have assisted in his escape, making sure they too face justice. There are rising concerns that Thongduang, who is known to have a considerable following and network, especially in southern Thailand, may plan another escape. The Ministry of Justice is sparing no effort to avoid such a scenario. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Lack of Digital and Literacy Skills May Result 3.3T Baht Loss for Thailand's Economy File photo for reference only On June 3rd, 2024, Mr. Danucha Pichayanan, the head of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC), disclosed the employment numbers for the first three months of 2024. The data showed there were slightly fewer people employed, 39.6 million in total, a small decrease of 0.1% from the previous year. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328941-lack-of-digital-and-literacy-skills-may-result-33t-baht-loss-for-thailands-economy/

On June 3rd, 2024, Mr. Danucha Pichayanan, the head of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC), disclosed the employment numbers for the first three months of 2024. The data showed there were slightly fewer people employed, 39.6 million in total, a small decrease of 0.1% from the previous year. Mr. Danucha explained that one significant shift was a drop of 5.7% in jobs in the agricultural sector after the season ended. However, other sectors saw an increase in employment. The hospitality industry, for example, had a 10.6% rise in workers, and the construction sector's workforce grew by 5%. In reaction to the Thai government's policy to increase the minimum wage starting January 1st, 2024, private companies boosted their employees' wages by an average of 0.5%, raising the average monthly salary to 13,789 baht. However, when looking across all sectors, the average monthly wage decreased by 0.4% to 15,052 baht. Even so, with an inflation decrease, the actual wages were improved. In addition, the unemployment rate was better, with a decrease of 3.2% in the number of people out of work, which was now estimated to be above 410,000. This resulted mainly from fewer out-of-work graduates who had work experience. Nevertheless, there was an increase in unemployment among recent graduates aged 20-24, who made up the most significant proportion of those unemployed. Mr. Danucha also highlighted an issue about the lack of skilled workers in Thailand, which could cause long-term problems for the country's economy. According to a survey called Adult Skills Assessment in Thailand (ASAT), over 64.7% of people have lower-than-average reading skills, and more than 74.1% have lower than average digital skills. This means that there are a lot of Thai adults who have trouble with basic reading and computer use. Also, a survey called "We are Social" that looked into Social Media Statistics, ranked Thailand 39th in digital skills out of 63 countries. Mr. Danucha pointed out that poor digital skills could lead to an economic loss of up to 3.3 trillion baht per year for Thailand. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Police Stops Buses Carrying Over 105 Illegal Immigrants from Chiang Rai to Bangkok File photo for reference only On June 3rd, 2024, Thai highway police were tipped off about a large group of illegal immigrants being transported by coach from Chiang Rai to Bangkok. After receiving this anonymous tip at 11 PM, the police, along with other authorities, launched a strategic response. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328938-thai-police-stops-buses-carrying-over-105-illegal-immigrants-from-chiang-rai-to-bangkok/

On June 3rd, 2024, Thai highway police were tipped off about a large group of illegal immigrants being transported by coach from Chiang Rai to Bangkok. After receiving this anonymous tip at 11 PM, the police, along with other authorities, launched a strategic response. Officers and officials from Phrae immigration as well as related bodies took positions at pivotal points along Yantrakitkoson Road, which runs through the Song District, Rong Kwang District and Mueang Phrae District. They identified three suspicious coaches run by a private tour bus company that operates on the Mae Sai-Bangkok route. On boarding these coaches in Mueang Phrae, police found 85 Burmese nationals who, lacking legal documents, had illegally entered Thailand. During similar policing efforts in Uttaradit, the authorities captured an additional 20 people in similar situations. The total number of undocumented Burmese nationals apprehended surpassed 105. The police reported that bus drivers, whose identities remain unknown, admitted picking up the immigrants from different areas including the Mae Sai bus station and Phayao University, all headed for Bangkok. After thorough examination of the drivers, immigrants and other passengers, the police escorted them to local police stations to undertake legal procedures and start extradition processes. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

American Tourist Dies After Falling Off a Hotel Balcony in Pattaya File photo for reference only A US tourist was discovered dead on Tuesday morning after a fall from the seventh floor of a hotel in Pattaya. The Pattaya police received a call about the incident around 6:06 AM on June 4th. They, along with rescue workers, rushed to the unnamed hotel situated on Soi Thappraya 15. There they found the body of the deceased, a 43-year-old American named Michael Jeffery Bruggink. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328937-american-tourist-dies-after-falling-off-a-hotel-balcony-in-pattaya/

A US tourist was discovered dead on Tuesday morning after a fall from the seventh floor of a hotel in Pattaya. The Pattaya police received a call about the incident around 6:06 AM on June 4th. They, along with rescue workers, rushed to the unnamed hotel situated on Soi Thappraya 15. There they found the body of the deceased, a 43-year-old American named Michael Jeffery Bruggink. Bruggink was found without a shirt and showed no evidence of violence on his body or signs of forced entry in his hotel room. However, police found cannabis and numerous syringes in the room, now locked for further forensic study. The hotel's security guard, 34-year-old Supornchai Hadkham, reported that he didn't see the fall and doesn't know how or when it happened. He found Bruggink during his patrol and called the authorities when he found the tourist unresponsive. The reason behind this incident is unclear. The police are looking at possible scenarios such as an accidental fall or suicide. A forensic examination will be done to establish the exact cause. The incident will also be reported to the US embassy. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Foreigner unharmed after motorcycle crash with van in Phuket A foreigner narrowly escaped death without a scratch after crashing his motorcycle on a mountain road in Phuket, sliding down Patong Hill, and colliding with a van. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328936-foreigner-unharmed-after-motorcycle-crash-with-van-in-phuket/

A foreigner narrowly escaped death without a scratch after crashing his motorcycle on a mountain road in Phuket, sliding down Patong Hill, and colliding with a van. The van driver, Weerapong, shared a video of the accident on his TikTok account, Smith.van, yesterday, June 3. The footage showed Weerapong braking suddenly as the foreigner and his motorcycle lost control on a curve and slid down the hill. Luckily, Weerapong stopped his car in time. The road was visibly wet from the rain. In another video, Weerapong is seen exiting his van to check on the foreigner, who miraculously escaped the accident without injury. The foreigner expressed his gratitude to Weerapong by performing a wai, a traditional Thai gesture of respect. In an interview with Channel 7, Weerapong revealed that the accident occurred around 11pm on June 1 on Patong Mountain while he was driving home. Due to the heavy rain and poor visibility, he was driving at a reduced speed and with extra caution. Weerapong said he noticed the motorcycle crash and slowed down to ensure the safety of both himself and the rider. Initially, Weerapong feared the foreigner might be seriously injured upon impact with his van. However, the man was unharmed and able to get up and speak to him. He did not ask for the foreigner’s details and parted ways after confirming he was uninjured. The videos of the accident have garnered significant attention on Thai TikTok, with the first video receiving over 13,000 likes and 400 shares. Netizens expressed relief that the foreigner was safe, while others appreciated his gesture of performing a wai to thank the van driver. One woman shared that she had also crashed her motorcycle at the same spot, urging other motorists to exercise caution when using the route. By Petch Petpailin Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Man fatally stabbed after stopping to help stranger in Buriram A tragic incident occurred involving the son of a sub-district assistant village headman, who was fatally stabbed at a roadside pavilion after stopping to help out a stranger who was seemingly in need. One of his friends was also injured in the unprovoked attack in Buriram. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328935-man-fatally-stabbed-after-stopping-to-help-stranger-in-buriram/

A tragic incident occurred involving the son of a sub-district assistant village headman, who was fatally stabbed at a roadside pavilion after stopping to help out a stranger who was seemingly in need. One of his friends was also injured in the unprovoked attack in Buriram. Deputy Inspector of Nong Ki Police Station, Police Lieutenant Colonel Thongsuk Prongthale, reported that they received a distress call about a stabbing late yesterday. Officers arrived at the scene on the Chok Chai-Det Udom Road, finding only bloodstains as the victims had already been taken to Nong Ki Hospital by relatives and locals. The deceased, identified as 33 year old Sorosak, was the son of the assistant headman of Khu Khat Noi village. He suffered a fatal stab wound to the heart. The friend, 32 year old Wutthichai, sustained a cut to the right side of his face. According to Wutthichai, he and Sorosak had just finished working as eucalyptus tree cutters and were returning home on a motorcycle, accompanied by a third friend. As they approached the roadside pavilion at the village entrance, a man aged between 30 and 40 years, whom they did not recognise, signalled them to stop. Assuming he needed assistance, Sorosak halted the motorcycle. Good deed punished Both Wutthichai and Sorosak approached the man, asking if he needed help. But without uttering a word, the man first attacked Wutthichai, slashing his face with a knife, before setting his sights on Sorosak who intervened and fatally stabbed him in the heart. The assailant then fled the scene with the blood-stained knife. Despite his injuries, Wutthichai managed to ride to nearby villagers for help. He confirmed that neither he nor Sorosak knew the attacker or understood the motive behind the assault. Sorosak’s mother, 53 year old Pien is the assistant headman of village No. 4 in Khu Khat Noi. She expressed her profound grief. She shared that her son was a hardworking boy who had given her 1,000 baht that morning to save for the completion of their house and had promised to buy her a fan in the evening. Following these events, a Nong Ki Police Station officer confirmed that the suspect had been apprehended. The police are currently interrogating the individual to determine the reasons behind the violent attack that resulted in injury and death, reported Khaosod. By Ryan Turner Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Vietnam overtakes Thailand in tech exports, posing a challenge File photo for reference only Thailand's export industry, which accounted for more than half the country's GDP in 2020, is threatened due to emerging technologies and direct competition with Vietnam. In high-tech product exports, Vietnam leads as a top player in the electronics sector due to a global recovery in demand for technology like computers, semiconductors, and smartphones. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328882-vietnam-overtakes-thailand-in-tech-exports-posing-a-challenge/

Thailand's export industry, which accounted for more than half the country's GDP in 2020, is threatened due to emerging technologies and direct competition with Vietnam. In high-tech product exports, Vietnam leads as a top player in the electronics sector due to a global recovery in demand for technology like computers, semiconductors, and smartphones. Thailand mostly trades electronic products like integrated circuits (IC) and printed circuit boards (PCB). These products, however, are facing high competition regarding price and technological development, and therefore, add little value. According to Danucha Pichayanan, the Secretary-General of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC), hard disk drives and peripherals have been staples in Thailand's trade for a while. However, rapid technological changes have decreased the demand for hard disk drives, which are now mainly used in data centers. Thailand has been unable to establish chip manufacturing facilities due to a lack of necessary incentives from the investment board. Attracting high-tech industries goes beyond offering incentives. A well-trained workforce is crucial since historically, Thailand has not produced enough skilled tech workers. To address this, some universities have initiated partnerships with international institutions to launch chip design centers in Thailand. Despite certain laws enacted to improve competitiveness, the financial support provided isn't adequate. In the 2024 budget, 16 billion baht were allocated for the Competitiveness Enhancement Fund, aiming to draw major chip production firms to Thailand. The government may implement a continuous funding mechanism to bypass the traditional annual budget process, which would help attract essential industries, like battery production plants. Plans are being made to allocate some revenue from the global minimum tax (GMT) to this fund. This GMT was initiated by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) to ensure that large multinational enterprises (MNEs) pay 15% tax in every country they operate. If the taxes paid are less than 15%, the difference must be paid in the parent company's home country. Thailand signed the global tax reform agreement and drafted the Top-Up Tax Act in accordance with OECD's principles. This law, if passed, will take into effect from the coming year and is hoped to strengthen the country's high-tech sector. Kriengkrai Thiennukul, the Chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), spoke about how Thailand's role as a manufacturer in the electronics industry has been affected by increasing labor costs and technological disruptions. He stated that Thailand's earning from this industry is falling behind those of China and Malaysia. In his opinion, to get attracted from the midstream industry, the government must improve infrastructure, develop a skilled workforce, and ensure enough provision of clean energy. An independent analyst, Aat Pisanwanich, states that Thailand's problems in growing its high-tech industries are due to its inconsistent foreign direct investment (FDI) policies. He claimed that compared to Thailand, Vietnam's consistent policies and strict laws such as anti-corruption measures have attracted investors from the US, China, and Taiwan. According to a recent NESDC report, Thailand's manufacturing output has been declining for six quarters, leading to a 1% drop in Thai goods exports in the year's first quarter. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Srettha turns to Wissanu for legal advice amid Pichit controversy File photo for reference only Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is preparing his defense concerning the controversial appointment of Pichit Chuenban as a minister in the PM’s Office. To assist him, Srettha has sought advice from his new adviser, Wissanu Krea-ngam. Although a defense has been prepared, it still needs honing before being presented to the Constitutional Court by June 10. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328881-srettha-turns-to-wissanu-for-legal-advice-amid-pichit-controversy/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is preparing his defense concerning the controversial appointment of Pichit Chuenban as a minister in the PM’s Office. To assist him, Srettha has sought advice from his new adviser, Wissanu Krea-ngam. Although a defense has been prepared, it still needs honing before being presented to the Constitutional Court by June 10. The PM, who is 62 years old, stressed the importance of Wissanu's advice to his defense. He insists that Pichit's appointment was within the boundaries of the law. Following Srettha's announcement that Wissanu was assisting him, Wissanu confirmed he would indeed be serving as the PM's adviser. Wissanu brings a wealth of experience, having served as a deputy prime minister in charge of legal affairs under the administration of Prayut Chan-o-cha after the 2014 coup. From 2002 to 2006, he was also a deputy prime minister under Thaksin Shinawatra, and he served as the Cabinet secretary-general from 1993 to 2002. Srettha's decision to appoint Wissanu has received support from Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. The PM is willing to give everyone a chance to help with government work, according to Phumtham. The government aims to move past political differences, he added. Sorawong Thienthong, a Pheu Thai MP for Sakaeo, dismissed rumors of discontent amongst Pheu Thai MPs over Srettha’s decision. He voiced Pheu Thai's readiness to back what the PM views as the country's best interests. On May 23, the court took on a petition seeking Srettha's removal over Pichit's appointment. However, Srettha was given 15 days to provide an explanation and was not suspended as PM awaiting the verdict. A similar petition against Pichit was denied by the court. Pichit resigned last Tuesday, a move that is seen as an attempt to protect Srettha from legal issues tied to his appointment. Pichit's appointment had been in question because of his past legal issues. In the past, Pichit served as a lawyer for ex-Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and as an adviser to Srettha. He previously served a sentence for contempt of court related to a dubious land deal in 2008. Pichit and two others were sentenced to six months in prison after attempting to bribe Supreme Court officials. At that time, they were representing Thaksin and his ex-wife in the land case, in which Thaksin was sentenced to two years. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pita Declares His Readiness to Succeed Srettha as Prime Minister File photo for reference only Pita Limjaroenrat, a key member of the Move Forward Party (MFP) and former prime ministerial candidate, recently said he is ready to step up as Prime Minister if the current holder of the office, Srettha Thavisin, is removed through a court decision. The statement comes amid growing political uncertainty in the country. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328880-pita-declares-his-readiness-to-succeed-srettha-as-prime-minister/

Pita Limjaroenrat, a key member of the Move Forward Party (MFP) and former prime ministerial candidate, recently said he is ready to step up as Prime Minister if the current holder of the office, Srettha Thavisin, is removed through a court decision. The statement comes amid growing political uncertainty in the country. Limjaroenrat shared his thoughts during an exclusive interview held at the Bangkok Pride Parade at the National Stadium on Saturday. His comments were made in the context of the Constitutional Court recently accepting a petition, filed by 40 senators, that seeks Thavisin's removal from office over an alleged ethics breach in a cabinet appointment. Limjaroenrat declared his preparedness for any potential election, expressing his commitment to follow due processes, rather than attempting to suddenly seize or compete for power. He said, "If the law allows it, I must become a prime ministerial candidate, as chosen by MFP leader Chaitawat Tulathon". Limjaroenrat expressed gratitude for public support, acknowledging the MFP's top spot in opinion polls administered by the King Prajadhipok’s Institute. However, he also stated that the polls' results, based on 1,600 samples, should be seen as a reason to work harder, not for self-satisfaction or complacency. He emphasised the significance of continued hard work and used public support as motivation for the MFP to continue working meticulously. He stated, “We need to be vigilant in the face of economic, social, and political challenges." File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Free zoo entry for children in Thailand for Queen Suthida’s birthday Photo courtesy of Pattaya News Zoos across Thailand are offering free admission for children under 12 years old today in celebration of Her Majesty Queen Suthida’s birthday. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328879-free-zoo-entry-for-children-in-thailand-for-queen-suthida’s-birthday/

Zoos across Thailand are offering free admission for children under 12 years old today in celebration of Her Majesty Queen Suthida’s birthday. This initiative, announced by the director of the Zoological Park Organisation of Thailand (ZPO), Attapon Srihayrun, will include several prominent zoos, such as Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chon Buri, Chiang Mai Zoo, Songkhla Zoo, Khon Kaen Zoo, Nakhon Ratchasima Zoo, Ubon Ratchathani Zoo, and The Kingdom Project in Surin. Khao Kheow Open Zoo prepared a host of attractions to mark the occasion. Visitors can look forward to a fancy mascot parade, an agricultural product promotion zone, mini-games, a penguin parade, and a night zoo experience. The zoo aims to offer an engaging environment for children and families to learn about wildlife. Other zoos in various provinces will also participate in the celebration by organising special activities. These include game shows, lucky draws, animal shows, talks by zookeepers, and numerous fun activities throughout the day. Each zoo is committed to providing an enjoyable and educational experience for all visitors. “We are thrilled to offer free admission to children on this special day. It’s a great way for families to spend quality time together and for children to learn more about animals and nature.” The initiative presents an excellent opportunity for families to enjoy a national holiday immersed in the natural world. By opening their doors for free to young visitors, the zoos under ZPO’s jurisdiction aim to foster a greater appreciation for wildlife conservation among the younger generation. “Seeing the joy on children’s faces as they interact with animals and participate in various activities is truly rewarding. We hope this special day will leave lasting memories for all our visitors.” Activity highlights Activities such as zookeeper talks provide an inside look into the daily operations of the zoo and the care of the animals, enhancing the educational aspect of the visit. The penguin parade at Khao Kheow Open Zoo is always a highlight. It’s not only entertaining but also teaches children about the natural behaviours of these fascinating creatures. Families planning to visit the zoos can expect a festive atmosphere filled with various engaging activities. The nationwide celebration aims to bring communities together, celebrate the royal occasion, and inspire a love for nature and wildlife among young visitors. This initiative underscores the ZPO’s commitment to wildlife education and conservation, ensuring that children have access to these valuable learning experiences, reported Pattaya News. By making the zoos more accessible, the organisation hopes to cultivate a future generation that is more aware of and engaged in wildlife conservation efforts. By Top Photo courtesy of Pattaya News Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-01 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe