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House Chaos: First Meeting Ends in Under an Hour Due to Quorum Fiasco Picture courtesy of PPTV36 The much-anticipated first meeting of Thailand's newly opened House of Representatives session ended in disappointment today, lasting less than an hour due to quorum issues. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365657-house-chaos-first-meeting-ends-in-under-an-hour-due-to-quorum-fiasco/

Picture courtesy of PPTV36 The much-anticipated first meeting of Thailand's newly opened House of Representatives session ended in disappointment today, lasting less than an hour due to quorum issues. MPs gathered eagerly in the chamber, but just 30 minutes in, a Palang Pracharath MP called for an official quorum count. Chaos ensued as Deputy House Speaker Pichet Chuamuangpan was forced to halt proceedings. With lawmakers scattered around the parliamentary premises, the standoff saw Pheu Thai MPs attempting to prolong matters with a time-consuming roll-call attendance. Despite the scramble, many were missing in action, marking an embarrassing start for the new session. Ultimately, Pichet called it quits after a futile 45-minute effort, underscoring the absence of the required 248 MPs from a total of 495 to officially proceed. Key on the session agenda was a controversial proposal from the Pheu Thai-led government to introduce casinos under "entertainment complex" projects. This topic likely faces delays due to substantial opposition from lawmakers and public backlash, highlighting contentious start issues for the new government. In a separate twist, Thai Sang Thai leader Sudarat Keyurapan demanded the resignation of party MP Takorn Tantasith. The reason? A ministerial appointment for his son in the latest Pheu Thai cabinet, clashing with the party’s position in the opposition bloc. The young Chantawit Tantasith was offered the deputy commerce minister role by Thammanat Prompao, closely linked with Pheu Thai's influential figure, Thaksin Shinawatra. Adding to the political drama, Thaksin’s daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, was temporarily ousted by a Constitutional Court order amidst an impeachment trial. Still, she remains active in other cabinet areas, setting culture policy under the guidance of Phumtham Wechayachai. He leads the government as acting prime minister amidst complexities in the ruling coalition. This episode leaves Thailand's legislative landscape muddled, underscoring political divisions and operational hurdles as the new session lurches forward. With immediate business halted, the implications for upcoming policies and governance remain precarious. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2025-07-04

Land Rover Drives Wrong Way, Collides with Mercedes on Expressway Pictures courtesy of Thai Rath A Land Rover drove the wrong way on the Chalong Rat Expressway, crashing head-on into a Mercedes. The collision left both vehicles severely damaged and overturned, and both drivers were injured. Police are examining CCTV footage to investigate further. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365654-land-rover-drives-wrong-way-collides-with-mercedes-on-expressway/

Pictures courtesy of Thai Rath BANGKOK—A Land Rover drove the wrong way on the Chalong Rat Expressway, crashing head-on into a Mercedes. The collision left both vehicles severely damaged and overturned, and both drivers were injured. Police are examining CCTV footage to investigate further. At 6:00 AM on 3rd July, authorities responded to a report of a two-car collision on the Chalong Rat Expressway near Soi Chatuchot, Bangkok. The accident involved a grey Mercedes A250, driven by 22-year-old Saksit Thongmee, and a white Land Rover driven by 26-year-old Rinyaphat Chatrassameepak. Saksit sustained severe injuries and was trapped in his car, while Rinyaphat suffered a fractured right leg and facial wounds. Both were taken to local hospitals for treatment. Initial investigations suggest Rinyaphat inadvertently drove the wrong way onto the motorway, possibly entering from Kanchanaphisek Road or Chatuchot Soi, believing it was a toll gate entrance. The Mercedes, travelling correctly, collided head-on with the Land Rover. Emergency services quickly cleared the scene, and police continue to review CCTV and will interview the drivers to conclude the investigation. Reports indicate Rinyaphat works at an electric car company on Pradit Manutham Road, whereas Saksit is employed at a car modification business. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Rath 2025-07-04

New Cha-am Overpass Spurs Major Highway Upgrade Toward Hua Hin Pictures courtesy of สำนักงานประชาสัมพันธ์จังหวัดเพชรบุรี The Cha-am bypass has kicked off a travel transformation with the opening of a new overpass at the Huai Ta Paet intersection. This marks a major leap in the expansion of Highway 37, promising to ease travel between Cha-am and Hua Hin. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365650-new-cha-am-overpass-spurs-major-highway-upgrade-toward-hua-hin/

Pictures courtesy of สำนักงานประชาสัมพันธ์จังหวัดเพชรบุรี The Cha-am bypass has kicked off a travel transformation with the opening of a new overpass at the Huai Ta Paet intersection. This marks a major leap in the expansion of Highway 37, promising to ease travel between Cha-am and Hua Hin. The overpass caters to both northbound traffic towards Bangkok and southbound flows to Hua Hin and Pranburi. This new intersection is part of a broader 50-kilometer infrastructure expansion by the Department of Highways. The project aims to widen the current road from four to six lanes, featuring six interchanges and 17 U-turns. With a hefty price tag of 7 billion baht, the entire construction is set to conclude in 2026. Once completed, Highway 37 will boast three 3.5-metre-wide lanes on each side. A 10.6-metre median will divide the lanes, flanked by concrete barriers, hard shoulders, and strategically placed U-turns. The enhancements promise better safety and smoother traffic. Starting from the Cha-am interchange on Phetkasem Road, the expansion passes landmarks like Huai Taphat, Silpakorn University, and the Hua Hin District Office before linking back with Phetkasem Road in Pranburi. A 50 million baht budget drove the 2023 construction of the Huai Taphat section, including the new overpass, with a total section cost of 250 million baht. Traffic forecasts predict a surge from 29,000 vehicles daily in 2020 to over 53,000 by 2044. The upgraded highway will be pivotal for locals and tourists alike. The addition of interchanges and U-turn points aims to cut down congestion, particularly during peak travel times. In addition to functionality, the project emphasises aesthetics. Landscaping and decorative concrete plans are under way for junctions and underpasses. The full upgrade between Hua Hin and Springfield Golf Course is on track for completion by late 2026. The overpass opening is a significant milestone in an expansive journey towards enhanced travel efficiency, road safety, and visual appeal in the region. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-07-04

Singapore Urges Peace in Thai-Cambodian Border Tensions Picture courtesy of Thai PBS World In a bid to calm rising tensions, Singapore has called upon Thailand and Cambodia to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue over an escalating border dispute. Singapore’s Prime Minister, Lawrence Wong, emphasised this message during his recent visit to Phnom Penh, urging both nations to adhere to international law. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365648-singapore-urges-peace-in-thai-cambodian-border-tensions/

Picture courtesy of Thai PBS World In a bid to calm rising tensions, Singapore has called upon Thailand and Cambodia to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue over an escalating border dispute. Singapore’s Prime Minister, Lawrence Wong, emphasised this message during his recent visit to Phnom Penh, urging both nations to adhere to international law. During the visit, Wong met with Cambodian leaders, including Prime Minister Hun Manet and Senate President Hun Sen. Hun Sen acknowledged the border tensions in talks with Wong, attributing the strain to an alleged incident on May 28, where a Thai soldier reportedly shot a Cambodian counterpart. Following this, accusations have flown over unilateral border closures and increased hostilities, adding fuel to the fire. Hun Sen expressed Cambodia's desire for a peaceful resolution while defending the nation's right to respond if provoked further. Meanwhile, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), of which Thailand, Cambodia, and Singapore are members, holds a longstanding principle against meddling in internal affairs. Yet the rising tension has led member states like Malaysia to also step in diplomatically. Earlier in the crisis, Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim reached out directly to Hun Manet and Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, advocating for restraint and peaceful negotiation. With voices from several ASEAN members reinforcing calls for calm, the focus remains on dialogue and adherence to international standards to resolve the matter peacefully. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai PBS World 2025-07-04

Bangkok to Dim Dazzling Billboards with New Brightness Rules File photo courtesy of Wikipedia Bangkok’s skyline is set for a less glaring future as the Bangkok Metropolitan Council acts to curtail the blinding brightness of local billboards. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365645-bangkok-to-dim-dazzling-billboards-with-new-brightness-rules/

File photo courtesy of Wikipedia Bangkok’s skyline is set for a less glaring future as the Bangkok Metropolitan Council acts to curtail the blinding brightness of local billboards. To safeguard residents' vision and cut down driver distractions, the council has greenlit a regulation aimed at reducing the excessive light output from illuminated signs. Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt introduced the regulation on July 2, emphasising its role in making city life safer and cosier for all. Complaints have surged over billboard brightness, with many concerned about discomfort and road hazards caused by extreme lighting. Governor Chadchart stated, “Some billboards are so bright that they disrupt daily life and pose dangers on the roads. This regulation aims to protect the public while promoting responsible advertising.” The new rule mandates that billboard brightness not exceed 5,000 candelas per square metre during the day and must drop to 500 candelas at night. This measure strives to meet businesses' advertising needs while ensuring residents and visitors aren’t blinded by glaring neon. With council approval in principle, a committee will now review the proposal ahead of a final vote. If enacted, the regulation will mark a significant step in controlling outdoor advertising impact in bustling Bangkok, as reported by the Bangkok Post. Advertisers in the city will need to adjust their lighting strategies to adhere to the new stipulations. The anticipated result is a visually calmer urban environment, reducing both human discomfort and dangerous distractions. Residents have welcomed the move, praising the effort to moderate intrusive billboard lighting. A local commented, “This regulation is long overdue. It will make living in the city more pleasant, especially at night.” Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-07-04

Two Women Arrested in Khon Kaen for Sharing Explicit Videos Online Pictures courtesy of Siam Rath Police in Khon Kaen apprehend two women for posting explicit clips on social media to earn significant profits. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365644-two-women-arrested-in-khon-kaen-for-sharing-explicit-videos-online/

Pictures courtesy of Siam Rath Police in Khon Kaen apprehend two women for posting explicit clips on social media to earn significant profits. On 3rd July, authorities from the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau in Khon Kaen announced the arrest of two women involved in distributing explicit content via social media. The cyber patrol discovered two Twitter accounts, each boasting over 250,000 and 500,000 followers, sharing pornographic videos publicly. These accounts provided a QR code for payments to view additional content. Investigations revealed that the women, identified as Areeya, 25, from Khon Kaen, and Papassarin, 32, from Samut Prakan, were behind the accounts. After obtaining search warrants, the police conducted raids at two locations. At the first location, a dormitory in Khon Kaen, Areeya was arrested. She confessed to running the operation for about a year, earning between 40,000 and 70,000 Baht monthly. Her mobile phone contained evidence matching the online content. At the second location in Samut Prakan, Papassarin was taken into custody after admitting to similar activities, reportedly making around 100,000 Baht monthly. Both women were charged with importing obscene computer data accessible to the public and are being processed according to the law. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Siam Rath 2025-07-04

Red Bull's Yoovidhya Tops as Thailand's Rich List Revealed Chalerm Yoovidhya The Yoovidhya family, co-owners of Red Bull, have clinched the top spot as Thailand’s richest. Their immense net worth soared, highlighting the country's ever-evolving wealth landscape. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365641-red-bulls-yoovidhya-tops-as-thailands-rich-list-revealed/

Chalerm Yoovidhya The Yoovidhya family, co-owners of Red Bull, have clinched the top spot as Thailand’s richest. Their immense net worth soared, highlighting the country's ever-evolving wealth landscape. Here’s a look at the leading companies from Forbes’ recent list. Chalerm Yoovidhya Net Worth: $44.5 billion (1.44 trillion baht) Industry: Beverages Chearavanont Brothers Net Worth: $35.7 billion (1.15 trillion baht) Industry: Conglomerate Sarath Ratanavadi Net Worth: $12 billion (389 billion baht) Industry: Energy and Telecom Charoen Sirivadhanabhakdi Net Worth: $10.5 billion (340 billion baht) Industry: Beverages and Real Estate Chirathivat Family Net Worth: $8.6 billion (278 billion baht) Industry: Retail In total, Forbes reported a significant 11% increase in the combined wealth of Thailand's 50 richest families, reaching a staggering $170.5 billion (5.51 trillion baht). Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra ranks 11th on the list with $2.1 billion (68 billion baht). Despite the impressive figures, challenges remain. Renewable energy leader Somphote Ahunai dropped from the ranks after legal issues and a drastic plunge in company shares. His exclusion underscores the volatility and rapid shifts among the wealthiest Thais, showcasing resilience and adaptability. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-07-04

Taxi Driver Strands Schoolgirls, Demands Double Fare in Bangkok Photo courtesy of Channel 3 Plus In a shocking incident in Nonthaburi, a group of schoolgirls were left drenched and fearful after a taxi driver demanded double the fare and abandoned them in a rainstorm. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365626-taxi-driver-strands-schoolgirls-demands-double-fare-in-bangkok/

German-Thai Couple's Generosity Thrills Kalasin Villagers Picture courtesy of Thai Newsroom In Kalasin province, Thailand, an unusual celebration unfolded as a kind-hearted German-Thai couple, Dr Rainer Kuppy and Mrs Manirat Chaiyasiha, delighted villagers by distributing 2,000 eggs. This gesture coincided with a major donation for the construction of a monks' residence at the newly opened Wat Pa Si Sutthawat temple. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365601-german-thai-couples-generosity-thrills-kalasin-villagers/

James Bond Museum Fiasco: A Costly 40 Million Baht Blunder Photo courtesy of Good Trips Thailand Travel Agency In a stunning mishap, a museum in Phang Nga honouring James Bond has turned into an unfortunate spectacle, as the 40-million-baht attraction succumbed to neglect just a day after its grand opening. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365599-james-bond-museum-fiasco-a-costly-40-million-baht-blunder/

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 4 July 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1365593-thailand-live-friday-4-july-2025/

Sunburn Nightmare: British Teen’s Thailand Trip Derailed by Sun Picture courtesy of Emilia Azarova A British teenager's dream holiday in Thailand quickly turned into a distressing ordeal after she suffered severe sunburn on her first day. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365591-sunburn-nightmare-british-teen’s-thailand-trip-derailed-by-sun/

Demolition of Phetchabun Temple Building Sparks Outcry Picture courtesy of Khaosod A Phetchabun temple faces criticism after hiring a backhoe to demolish a longstanding structure, leading to injuries during the protest. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365545-demolition-of-phetchabun-temple-building-sparks-outcry/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod A Phetchabun temple faces criticism after hiring a backhoe to demolish a longstanding structure, leading to injuries during the protest. On 3rd July 2025, a Facebook user posted videos showing a backhoe demolishing a building at a temple in Phetchabun, Thailand. The video depicts the destruction of the structure, leaving devotees, who adhere to strict religious observances, powerless to stop the actions. The user described the demolition as a "violent act ignoring the law," taking place at a meditation hall within the temple grounds. A second clip showed individuals in white robes, believed to be practitioners, trying to stop the destruction. During the altercation, debris fell, causing injuries. The poster claimed that the abbot and the temple committee were responsible for hiring the machinery to dismantle the building, emphasising that many of the affected practitioners were women. In a subsequent post, it was stated that the temple's committee continued to harass the practitioners, despite their ongoing peaceful clean-up efforts, suggesting mounting tensions and possible legal consequences. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khaosod 2025-07-03

Thailand Rejects Google’s Claim on Disputed Surin Temple Ruins Source: Google Maps In a bold move, the Thai Army has firmly rejected Google’s decision to mark the contested Ta Muean Thom temple ruins in Surin as part of Cambodia. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365537-thailand-rejects-google’s-claim-on-disputed-surin-temple-ruins/

Source: Google Maps In a bold move, the Thai Army has firmly rejected Google’s decision to mark the contested Ta Muean Thom temple ruins in Surin as part of Cambodia. Major General Winthai Suvaree stated on Wednesday that Google Earth's markings hold no legal weight, emphasising Thailand's historical claim to the site. The Royal Thai Army (RTA) insists that geographical evidence and historical administration by Thailand strongly demonstrate sovereignty over Ta Muean Thom, located in Phanom Dong Rak district. They argue these ruins have been part of Thailand long before Cambodia's independence from France in 1953. Registered as an archaeological site in 1935, the temple's restoration by the Fine Arts Department further underscores Thailand’s stand. The RTA highlighted the involvement of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), which has developed road systems for better access to the site, with artefacts showcased at the Surin National Museum. Despite Google’s depiction, Thailand's claims remain steadfast against Cambodia's petition to the International Court of Justice, which they do not recognise. Deputy Defence Minister General Natthapon Nakpanich expressed hope for continued dialogue with Cambodia through the General Border Committee. While Cambodia's border remains closed, positive signs of resumed informal talks with Thai officials hint at potential diplomatic progress. The Ta Muean Thom ruins lie at the heart of broader border disputes, yet the Thai government remains resolute in affirming its territorial rights and seeking a peaceful resolution with their Cambodian counterparts. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-07-03

Submarine Saga: Phumtham Greenlights Thai Navy’s Chinese Sub Purchase Yuan-class S26T. File photo courtesy of Defence Security Asia In a significant move, Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has approved the Royal Thai Navy’s plan to purchase a Chinese-built S26T submarine, with the proposal now heading to the cabinet for final clearance. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365534-submarine-saga-phumtham-greenlights-thai-navy’s-chinese-sub-purchase/

Yuan-class S26T. File photo courtesy of Defence Security Asia In a significant move, Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has approved the Royal Thai Navy’s plan to purchase a Chinese-built S26T submarine, with the proposal now heading to the cabinet for final clearance. The approval followed hot on the heels of his transition from the Defence Ministry to the Interior Ministry on July 2. The 12.4-billion-baht deal involves buying the Yuan-class submarine equipped with a Chinese-made engine, replacing the German MTU396 engine amid years of deliberation. Despite controversy, including international pressure over arms sales, Phumtham cleared the path for this contentious acquisition. During his last act at the Defence Ministry, Phumtham addressed the vacant post of Defence Minister, expressing confidence in finding a capable candidate. Although he refrained from approving a separate jet fighter deal, he left it for his successor to evaluate further military procurement strategies. The submarine deal has faced numerous hurdles as some navy admirals encouraged the shift to the untested Chinese CHD620 engine. The hesitation arose partly due to export restrictions from Germany, which has largely boycotted military sales to China over policy disagreements. Meanwhile, decisions on acquiring a fleet of jet fighters remain pending, with the air force favouring Swedish Saab JAS 39E Gripen jets over the American F-16 Block 70s. The choice must undergo substantial review by the incoming Defence Minister to ensure the best outcome for national defence. Phumtham's departure and the upcoming oath-taking ceremony mark a pivotal transition point, leaving key military decisions in the hands of his successors. As the government navigates these strategic choices, the emphasis lies on strengthening ties across all military branches, maintaining a united front for Thailand's defence landscape. With this green light from Phumtham, attention now shifts to the cabinet's final decision on this high-stakes submarine purchase. The outcome could shape maritime strategy and regional alliances, underscoring the broader implications of this controversial maritime acquisition. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom, Agencies 2025-07-03