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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

Thai fugitive Chaowalit Thongduang to be extradited from Indonesia Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post High-profile jail escapee Chaowalit Thongduang will be extradited from Indonesia back to Thailand under tight security measures. Nakhon Si Thammarat Police Chief Somchai Seutortrakul confirmed that a special unit will receive the 37 year old inmate at Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport tomorrow. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328878-thai-fugitive-chaowalit-thongduang-to-be-extradited-from-indonesia/

High-profile jail escapee Chaowalit Thongduang will be extradited from Indonesia back to Thailand under tight security measures. Nakhon Si Thammarat Police Chief Somchai Seutortrakul confirmed that a special unit will receive the 37 year old inmate at Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport tomorrow. Chaowalit, also known as Sia Paeng, who escaped from Maharaj Nakhon Si Thammarat Hospital during a dental visit on October 22 last year, will be taken directly to Mueang Police Station. At the station, the murder suspect will face interrogation and formal charges related to his escape. Authorities have planned robust security measures both at the airport and along the convoy route, although specific details remain undisclosed. Chaowalit’s attorney will be present throughout the entire process, which could span several days based on the suspect’s level of cooperation. Having been serving a 20-year sentence for multiple crimes, including murder and firearms possession, Chaowalit managed to flee custody but was apprehended by Indonesian police in Bali last week. His arrest was connected to drug dealing, using a fake Indonesian ID card, and assaulting women. Following his questioning and the notification of new charges by police, Chaowalit will be handed over to Corrections Department officials for further detention. There have been differing statements from Thai authorities regarding the specifics of Chaowalit’s extradition. Provincial police sources indicate he will be flown directly to Nakhon Si Thammarat on an air force plane. In contrast, Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong has stated that the initial flight will land at Suvarnabhumi Airport before transferring Chaowalit to the southern province, reported Bangkok Post. Security measures will be paramount during the transfer, reflecting the high-profile nature of Chaowalit’s case and his previous escape. By Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-01 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Elderly woman transforms village with 500-metre flower garden Picture courtesy of Sanook A 75 year old woman has garnered widespread admiration online for her dedication to maintaining a 500-metre stretch of flowers along a roadside. Initially mistaken for a government project, the flower garden is entirely the work of the elderly woman. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328877-elderly-woman-transforms-village-with-500-metre-flower-garden/

A 75 year old woman has garnered widespread admiration online for her dedication to maintaining a 500-metre stretch of flowers along a roadside. Initially mistaken for a government project, the flower garden is entirely the work of the elderly woman. The online community was abuzz with appreciation after a clip posted on the page Jae Moi V+ from TikTok user พี่กอฟ พาลอง (P’Golf takes you around) showed the woman watering the flowers. The caption revealed that the flowers, which many thought were planted by the local municipality, were actually cultivated by the elderly woman herself. The clip has since attracted numerous comments praising her efforts. Reporters who visited the site discovered that the flower-filled roadside is located at the entrance of Ban Khok Huachang village, in Isan Subdistrict, Mueang Buriram District, Buriram Province. The woman, known as Kruawan or Grandma Jiw Anantachaiworakul, was found diligently tending to the flowers near her home. She shared that she has been planting flowers since retiring from her teaching career in 2009. Kruawan explained that she started planting flowers along the road due to loneliness after her husband passed away in 1999 and she had no children. Living with her 17 year old great-grandchild, she found solace in gardening. “I wanted to beautify the community and the temple. Seeing the flowers bloom makes me feel refreshed and happy.” In two locations: the entrance to Ban Khok Huachang village and the front of Thung Pho Temple, each covering about 500 metres. Kruawan alternates between the locations, watering, weeding, and adding compost and manure. Morning hours are spent at the temple, while evenings are dedicated to the village entrance. Her daily routine includes tending to flowers such as portulaca, hibiscus, zinnias, and tecoma. Cuttings to blossoms Most of the flowers, like portulaca, started from cuttings given by neighbours and have been propagated over the years. The woman also bought hibiscus and tecoma for 100 baht for three plants. Despite some suggesting that her age made the work too strenuous. “I am not seeking hardship. I get exercise and feel happy and healthy.” The viral clip has brought her much recognition and pride. “I am proud to have done something good for the community and the temple. I think, that as long as I live, I will do my best. It’s better than doing nothing. At least when I’m gone, people will remember me.” A 37 year old neighbour, Worawit Rattanarin, expressed admiration for Kruawan’s dedication. “Seeing Grandma Jiw water the flowers every evening makes our community more beautiful and pleasant. I hope other places will follow her example.” Worawit added that passersby are welcome to take flower cuttings to propagate. Neighbours often bring the elderly woman cold drinks, snacks, and small amounts of money to help with seed purchases and water bills, which amount to about 500 to 700 baht monthly. Village headman Saewang Buransuk acknowledged the positive impact of the elderly woman’s work. He mentioned that the community leaders appreciate Grandma Jiw’s efforts to plant flowers by the roadside, making the area more attractive, reported Sanook. “We are concerned for her safety and have advised her to stay away from the road. We will place reflective cones during her watering times to ensure her safety.” By Samantha Rose Picture courtesy of Sanook Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-01 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Health officials address beetle infestation in Khon Kaen Picture courtesy of David K from pexels.com Millions of beetles have invaded a home in Khon Kaen, causing significant distress for a couple until local health officials intervened. The invasion of wood-boring beetles has been linked to the area’s favourable conditions for their breeding. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328876-health-officials-address-beetle-infestation-in-khon-kaen/

Millions of beetles have invaded a home in Khon Kaen, causing significant distress for a couple until local health officials intervened. The invasion of wood-boring beetles has been linked to the area’s favourable conditions for their breeding. Yesterday, public health officials from Kranuan District in Khon Kaen conducted a thorough fumigation of a house located at 74 Moo 9, Ban Chai Charoen, Ban Fang Subdistrict, Kranuan District. The home, owned by 54 year old Naowarat and 52 year old Saman, had been overtaken by more than a million beetles. The infestation had made living conditions unbearable for the couple, prompting various agencies to step in and provide assistance. After the fumigation, a significant number of beetles fell to the ground, which were then collected and incinerated by the officials. A second round of fumigation was carried out to ensure that all remaining beetles were exterminated. Naowarat expressed immense gratitude to the officials through tears, stating that the beetles had been a persistent problem for years. However, this year the infestation had reached overwhelming levels. She also mentioned her own health struggles, including being bedridden due to a stroke, which had compounded the difficulty of dealing with the infestation. Naowarat thanked all the agencies involved, as she did not know who else to turn to for help. Kranuan District Chief Kennesaw Ketin explained that the beetles, identified as wood-boring beetles, had proliferated due to their breeding habits, which involve laying eggs in soil or wood. The recent rain caused the beetle eggs to hatch, and the area around the house provided an ideal environment due to the moist soil and underground water sources. This led to an unusually high number of beetles choosing to inhabit the area. The Ban Fang Subdistrict Administrative Organisation and Kranuan District Health Office have taken measures to assist the couple by fumigating the house. It is expected that the couple will be able to return to their home within three days, provided they maintain cleanliness to prevent further beetle infestations, reported Sanook. For the time being, the couple plans to stay in a storage room adjacent to their house instead of moving in with relatives. By Samantha Rose Picture courtesy of David K from pexels.com Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-01 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya Biker Turns Himself In After His Reckless Stunt Video in a Tunnel Goes Viral File photo for reference only A 20-year-old man from Thailand turned himself in to the police in Pattaya after a video of him undertaking a dangerous motorbike stunt in the Pattaya Central Tunnel went viral. His stunt involved riding his motorbike with the front wheel raised. The video created a buzz on social media. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328867-pattaya-biker-turns-himself-in-after-his-reckless-stunt-video-in-a-tunnel-goes-viral/

A 20-year-old man from Thailand turned himself in to the police in Pattaya after a video of him undertaking a dangerous motorbike stunt in the Pattaya Central Tunnel went viral. His stunt involved riding his motorbike with the front wheel raised. The video created a buzz on social media. The man, who the police only identified as Mr. Wachirawit, surrendered at the Pattaya Police Station at 8 PM on June 2nd. He admitted to being the rider in the viral video and accepted he carried out the risky wheelie. Mr. Wachirawit explained he was fascinated by the new lighting in the tunnel and wanted a video of him performing the stunt amidst the lights. He knew that motorbikes were not allowed in the tunnel, but he chose to ignore the rules to get the desired footage. His friend filmed the stunt, according to Mr. Wachirawit. He was surprised when the video went viral and wasn't sure how it got shared beyond his close friends. Pol. Col Nawin Theerawit, the Chief of Pattaya Police Station, stated that Mr. Wachirawit's antics could lead to as many as five charges. These include reckless driving, unlicensed driving, disobeying a traffic sign, driving in a prohibited area, and not having a visible registration plate. The police have detained Mr. Wachirawit for legal proceedings. His white Yamaha R7, used in the stunt, has been confiscated. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Swedish Tourist in Pattaya Steals Motorcycles, Hits Several Cars File photo for reference only A Swedish tourist's wild antics involving stolen motorcycles and car crashes ended with him in police custody early Sunday morning, in the city of Pattaya, Thailand. Identified as 34-year-old Oliver Joakim Stare, the tourist was spotted shirtless on a surveillance camera. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328866-swedish-tourist-in-pattaya-steals-motorcycles-hits-several-cars/

Picture courtesy: The Pattaya News A Swedish tourist's wild antics involving stolen motorcycle and car crashes ended with him in police custody early Sunday morning, in the city of Pattaya, Thailand. Identified as 34-year-old Oliver Joakim Stare, the tourist was spotted shirtless on a surveillance camera. At around 12.05am on Sunday, June 2, Stare was seen snatching a motorcycle from a taxi driver, Thosaporn Meesamut, 45, who was taking a break at a shop. The thief swiftly rode away. The incident occurred on Soi Noen Plub Wan Street in Pattaya. Meesamut shared with local news outlets that this shirtless stranger had —unsuccessfully— flagged him down, raising his suspicion about the tourist's erratic disposition. Stare then pursued him, catching up with him at the shop where he stole the motorcycle. Stare was reported to have subsequently stolen another motorcycle and was involved in a several-car collision in Central Pattaya. The accident saw him sustain head injuries. Seeking aid, Stare approached security guards at a nearby hotel in the Na Jomtien area, alleging an assault against him. Skeptical of his claim, they contacted the police, effectively ending Stare's reckless run throughout the city. The police arrived and brought him to the Na Jomtien Police Station where he is currently detained. As the investigation proceeds, Stare is expected to undergo testing for possible illegal drug use. This will help police understand what triggered his outrageous behavior. In addition, he may be facing multiple charges related to his actions that night. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NSO Initiates First Survey Targeting LGBTQ+ Community File photo for reference only The National Statistical Office (NSO), together with the Institute for Population and Social Research at Mahidol University and the Thailand Health Promotion Foundation, has initiated the first official survey geared towards the LGBTQ+ community in Thailand. The study, running from June to September, aims to collect detailed data to improve services and inform policies for the LGBTQ+ individuals. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328864-nso-initiates-first-survey-targeting-lgbtq-community/

The National Statistical Office (NSO), together with the Institute for Population and Social Research at Mahidol University and the Thailand Health Promotion Foundation, has initiated the first official survey geared towards the LGBTQ+ community in Thailand. The study, running from June to September, aims to collect detailed data to improve services and inform policies for the LGBTQ+ individuals. Kanjana Phumalee, NSO's Director of Policy and Academic Statistics Division, said that past data collection efforts on the LGBTQ+ community weren't sufficient due to people's reluctance to share personal information. This has led to a significant data gap, hampering the development of efficient public policies. A 2019 NSO survey showed that about 0.7% of households nationwide have LGBTQ+ members, with 1.5% of people aged 15-20 identifying themselves as LGBTQ+. Kanjana added that the new survey aims to fill this data gap by collecting detailed data on LGBTQ+ individuals' physical and mental health, living conditions, relationships, and experiences of stigma and discrimination. This data is necessary to better understand and cater to their unique needs and challenges. Porranee Puprasert, Assistant Manager at ThaiHealth, emphasized the importance of current data to effectively enhance the health and well-being of all groups. The survey's results are anticipated to help formulate comprehensive social, economic, and health policies and increase the understanding of LGBTQ+ problems, including health and economic inequalities and discrimination. The survey plan includes a mix of household surveys, targeting 2,400 households in Ratchaburi province and 1,100 individuals aged 15-25 in educational institutions in Nakhon Pathom, together with an online survey of 1,500 people aged 15 and over. After the survey, in-depth interviews will be conducted with participants to better understand their health, sex identity, gender preferences, and sexual orientation experiences. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand is Aiming for Key Victories in World Cup Qualifiers File photo for reference only The Thailand national football team, under the leadership of coach Masatada Ishii, left for China on Sunday, June 2. Their goal is to secure critical victories in their forthcoming Group C games in the Asian zone qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup. They are scheduled to play China in a crucial match in Shenyang on June 6, before facing Singapore at Bangkok's Rajamangala National Stadium on June 11. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328863-thailand-is-aiming-for-key-victories-in-world-cup-qualifiers/

The Thailand national football team, under the leadership of coach Masatada Ishii, left for China on Sunday, June 2. Their goal is to secure critical victories in their forthcoming Group C games in the Asian zone qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup. They are scheduled to play China in a crucial match in Shenyang on June 6, before facing Singapore at Bangkok's Rajamangala National Stadium on June 11. At present, Thailand stands third in the group, having garnered four points. They are outpaced by China, which has seven points, and group leader South Korea with ten points. Singapore is lodged at the group's foot, having secured just one point. As only the top two teams from each of the nine groups can progress to the subsequent qualifying stage, Thailand must win their remaining games to keep their World Cup dreams alive. Ishii is optimistic about the team's preparations and readiness. He stated they've adjusted their tactics in accordance with changes in the Chinese team's coaching and gameplay since their previous meeting. Seasoned striker, Teerasil Dangda also discussed the importance of the imminent games, suggesting that, due to his advancing age, these might be his last World Cup qualifying performances as he nears international career retirement. The approaching game against China will be aired live on Thairath TV (Channel 32) at 7 p.m. this coming Thursday. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Officials Guarantee Safety on Koh Samui Following Minor Earthquakes File photo for reference only The Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Pol Gen Patcharawat Wongsuwan, has reassured residents of Koh Samui that they are safe despite the island experiencing three minor earthquakes recently. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328861-officials-guarantee-safety-on-koh-samui-following-minor-earthquakes/

The Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Pol Gen Patcharawat Wongsuwan, has reassured residents of Koh Samui that they are safe despite the island experiencing three minor earthquakes recently. Responding to public fear and to provide security, Pol Gen Patcharawat directed the Department of Mineral Resources to fix a seismometer on the island. This would help ensure the safety of both residents and tourists. The first earthquake, which had a magnitude of 2.4, hit the island on Thursday, June 30. Two more quakes, measuring magnitudes of 2.4 and 2.2 respectively, occurred on Saturday. These earthquakes originated from the sea near the Bo Phut subdistrict and are thought to be a result of a shifting fault line. Both Pichit Sombatmak, the head of the Department of Mineral Resources, and Dr. Virachart Wiwekwin, the head of the active faults unit of the Seismology Division, confirmed the minor nature of these earthquakes. They stated that there was no structural damage or aftershocks caused by these tremors. They also reassured that Koh Samui is a geologically stable area and it's unlikely to face any major seismic activities. Officials from the Department of Mineral Resources are scheduled to visit Koh Samui later this week. They will spot potential sites for installing the seismometer. After the initial survey, there will be a series of discussions with relevant parties to finalize the installation plans. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe