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Foreign fortune-teller harasses Thai women for money by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of ch3plus A foreign fortune-teller has been making a nuisance of himself, persistently approaching Thai women to offer dubious fortune-telling services in exchange for money. The incidents have been reported around Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat in Bang Si Mueang, Nonthaburi. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334620-foreign-fortune-teller-harasses-thai-women-for-money/

A foreign fortune-teller has been making a nuisance of himself, persistently approaching Thai women to offer dubious fortune-telling services in exchange for money. The incidents have been reported around Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat in Bang Si Mueang, Nonthaburi. Panjarat Limthongcharoen, the 30 year old owner of the Kumati smoothie shop, shared her unsettling experience. Yesterday, August 3, while she was at her shop with her younger brother, a tall man of foreign descent, resembling an Indian national, walked in around 1.40pm. He approached Panjarat, handed her an envelope requesting 199 baht (US$5.6), and claimed he would tell her fortune. He incorrectly predicted that she would have two lovers simultaneously, mistaking her brother for one of them. This inaccurate and intrusive fortune-telling left Panjarat feeling deeply uncomfortable. “I have a boyfriend and have never been unfaithful. To suggest otherwise, especially by mistaking my brother for a lover, was very upsetting,” Panjarat said, recounting her irritation. She refused the fortune-telling service, prompting the man to insist she give him her hand for a palm reading. When she declined again, he began accusing her of being dishonest and a bad person. Feeling increasingly threatened, Panjarat eventually gave him 20 baht to leave, but he reacted with visible displeasure, continuing to berate her until she forced him out of the shop. Following this incident, Panjarat observed the man entering a nearby shop selling religious items, as well as approaching people parking their motorcycles on the street. He persistently offered his services, only to be repeatedly turned down. Panjarat took to social media to share her experience, and several others came forward, recounting similar encounters where they had been pressured into paying significant amounts for his services, reported KhaoSod. One concerned individual remarked, “I was duped into paying thousands for a ritual to ward off bad luck. Fortunately, Panjarat realised something was off when he mistook her brother for a lover. Panjarat expressed relief that her brother was present during the incident, fearing what might have happened had she been alone. She firmly believes that the fortune-teller harbours malicious intentions. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of ch3plus Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-05 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

PM Srettha orders Temu to comply with Thai tax laws by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Thairath money Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin directed the Revenue Department and the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (DES) to ensure the new Chinese online retailer Temu adheres to Thai regulations and meets tax obligations. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334619-pm-srettha-orders-temu-to-comply-with-thai-tax-laws/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin directed the Revenue Department and the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (DES) to ensure the new Chinese online retailer Temu adheres to Thai regulations and meets tax obligations. The directive aims to address concerns from local industries about the potential influx of inexpensive Chinese products affecting Thai manufacturers. The introduction of Temu, a Chinese e-commerce platform, raised alarms due to its strategy of luring customers with discounts of up to 90% on various items. Local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) fear this could severely impact their businesses. According to the Thai premier, all companies operating in Thailand must comply with tax laws, and it is the responsibility of state agencies to enforce this compliance. The 62 year old Thai prime minister emphasised the critical nature of this issue, highlighting the need for the government to be proactive in safeguarding local SMEs. “The government must ensure every business in Thailand meets its tax obligations.” Srettha added that discussions are ongoing regarding tighter import regulations. These measures may include imposing a value-added tax on imported goods priced below 1,500 baht (US$40), reported Bangkok Post. Pawoot Pongvitayapanu, honorary president of the Thai E-commerce Association, echoed these concerns, urging the government to strengthen actions against illegal cross-border goods and enforce stricter import standards. He stressed that such measures are essential to maintain fairness for Thai SMEs. In related news, the Thai e-commerce landscape is about to face a major upheaval, warns Pawoot Pongvitayapanu, CEO of Creden.co and PaySolutions. Speaking on Krungthep Turakij’s Deep Talk programme, Pawoot cautioned that the arrival of the Chinese online retail giant Temu could spell trouble for local retailers already battling fierce competition. Pawoot highlighted that while Thai consumers are already familiar with cheap Chinese goods via platforms like Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop, Temu’s direct-to-consumer model presents a new level of disruption. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Thairath money Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-05 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Phuket Announces 2.38 Billion Baht Underpass Project to Ease Traffic at Tha Ruea Intersection By Kittisak Phalaharn Thalang — On August 3rd, 2024, Phuket Highways Office Chief Yutthana Phitak announced a new underpass project at the Tha Ruea intersection on the Tha Ruea-Mueang Mai road in Thalang. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334618-phuket-announces-238-billion-baht-underpass-project-to-ease-traffic-at-tha-ruea-intersecti/

Thalang — On August 3rd, 2024, Phuket Highways Office Chief Yutthana Phitak announced a new underpass project at the Tha Ruea intersection on the Tha Ruea-Mueang Mai road in Thalang. The 2.38 billion baht project aims to alleviate traffic congestion and improve the area’s landscape, particularly around the Thao Thep Krasattri and Thao Si Sunthon Monument. The project will require the expropriation of 1,574 square meters of land, including 967 square meters from the Robinson shopping mall corner and 607 square meters from a retail jewelry store. The underpass will feature three lanes beneath the monument, with two outbound lanes on Highway 402. The upper section will remain a two-lane roundabout. By Kittisak Phalaharn Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-08-05 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Citizens Anticipate 10,000-Baht Digital Wallet for Essential Expenses By Kittisak Phalaharn Nakhon Ratchasima — On August 3rd, 2024, Nakhon Ratchasima local media interviewed low-income residents from various professions at the Thao Suranaree (Ya Mo) Monument in Mueang about their plans for a proposed 10,000-baht digital wallet scheme. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334617-thai-citizens-anticipate-10000-baht-digital-wallet-for-essential-expenses/

Nakhon Ratchasima — On August 3rd, 2024, Nakhon Ratchasima local media interviewed low-income residents from various professions at the Thao Suranaree (Ya Mo) Monument in Mueang about their plans for a proposed 10,000-baht digital wallet scheme. Mrs. Tichila Buranathit, a 55-year-old street vendor, shared her hopes. Having completed her registration for the program, she is awaiting final approval. “If I receive the 10,000 baht, I’ll use it to buy ingredients, especially sugar, which has become quite expensive at nearly 30 baht per kilogram. I need more than five kilograms daily, so this money would significantly reduce my costs and help make my business profitable again,” Tichila explained. By Kittisak Phalaharn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-08-05 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Flight instructor dies as his plane crashes into empty house A single-seat aircraft crashed into an empty house in a golf resort in Samut Sakhon’s Muang district this morning. The pilot died in the accident and the house caught fire. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334616-flight-instructor-dies-as-his-plane-crashes-into-empty-house/

A single-seat aircraft crashed into an empty house in a golf resort in Samut Sakhon’s Muang district this morning. The pilot died in the accident and the house caught fire. Firefighters found the wrecked plane stuck in the roof of the empty house, which eventually burned to the ground. The pilot has been identified as Pudit Supawatanakul, 30, a flight instructor. An initial investigation has found that Pudit was taking the plane for a test flight, following engine repairs, when he encountered problems. Full story: Thai PBS 2024-08-05 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Defence Minister Calls Urgent Meeting with Army Chief Over Abuse Allegations Picture courtesy: Naew Na DEFENCE Minister Suthin Khlangsang has summoned Army Chief Gen. Charoenchai Hinthao for an urgent meeting tomorrow (Aug. 5). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334615-defence-minister-calls-urgent-meeting-with-army-chief-over-abuse-allegations/

DEFENCE Minister Suthin Khlangsang has summoned Army Chief Gen. Charoenchai Hinthao for an urgent meeting tomorrow (Aug. 5). This move comes in the wake of a disturbing photograph circulating online, depicting roughly ten privates allegedly stripped and abused by two non-commissioned officers during training at a camp in Chiang Mai. Suthin underscored that such abuse has occurred repeatedly, blaming it either on excessively harsh punishment by instructors or on senior soldiers targeting their juniors. He stressed that if any soldiers are found guilty of misconduct, they must face legal consequences. Furthermore, Suthin insisted that the victims receive full justice and that stringent warnings be issued to prevent future incidents. Colonel Richa Suksuwanon, an Army deputy spokesman, stated that an investigative committee has been established to examine the allegations. The privates involved are reportedly from the 25th Cavalry Battalion of the 4th Cavalry Regiment, King’s Guard. For those with additional information or similar complaints, Col. Richa encouraged contact with the Office of the Secretary of the Army at 113 Ratchadamnoen Nok Road, Bang Khun Phrom subdistrict, Phra Nakhon district, Bangkok 10200. Alternatively, people can call 02-297-7836 or 02-297-8307, or use the S.M.A.R.T Soldier app to file complaints. The allegations gained traction when a community Facebook page, Sai Mai Tong Rod (Sai Mai District Must Survive), highlighted the case. According to the page, the sister of one of the abused privates claimed that a corporal and a sergeant, allegedly drunk, ordered the privates to strip naked and stand in the rain and cold for six hours in the middle of the night. During this ordeal, they were slapped, kicked, and stomped. She also mentioned that other privates had been assaulted in ways that left no external marks but caused internal pain. TOP: Picture courtesy: Naew Na -- 2024-08-05 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Ceiling collapse at Chiang Mai Airport injures two foreign children by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of The Pattaya News A ceiling collapse at Chiang Mai Airport‘s security checkpoint injured two foreign children yesterday at 7.55am. Medical staff at the airport quickly administered first aid to the injured children. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334552-ceiling-panels-collapse-at-chiang-mai-airport-injures-two-passengers/

Ceiling collapse at Chiang Mai Airport injures two foreign children by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of The Pattaya News A ceiling collapse at Chiang Mai Airport‘s security checkpoint injured two foreign children yesterday at 7.55am. Medical staff at the airport quickly administered first aid to the injured children. The first child, from the Netherlands, sustained minor injuries to the back of his hand, while the second, from China, suffered a head injury. The Dutch child and his family decided to continue their journey to Don Mueang International Airport, with assistance from Chiang Mai Airport staff to ensure their travel was safe and comfortable. The Chinese child was taken to a private hospital in Chiang Mai, where he received stitches for a 5-centimetre head wound. After the treatment, the child’s family returned to the airport to prepare for their flight to Hat Yai Airport. Airport officials provided extensive support to both families, including new clothes, tickets, lunch, and access to a VIP lounge. They also offered initial compensation and will work with insurance companies for further assistance. “We deeply regret this incident and are taking all necessary steps to ensure it does not happen again,” said Wing Commander Ronnakorn Chalermsanyakorn, the general manager of Chiang Mai International Airport. The ceiling collapse was attributed to weakened panels caused by moisture from the air conditioning ducts, aggravated by recent continuous rainfall. The airport has begun replacing the insulation and removing damaged panels as part of an accelerated maintenance plan to prevent future issues, reported The Pattaya News. “Feedback and suggestions from this incident will be used to improve our facilities and ensure the safety of our passengers,” added Ronnakorn. The local media in Chiang Mai reported that the airport will expedite the maintenance work to replace the insulation and remove the damaged panels. In related news, a tragic incident occurred on June 8 at a temple in Nonthaburi’s Sai Noi district, where a monk was fatally injured by a collapsing mobile roof frame. The accident happened around 6.30pm when three monks were moving the large structure. Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-05 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Disbanding Move Forward Could Endanger Thailand’s Bid for UNHRC Membership File photo courtesy: Thai PBS The Constitutional Court has been warned that Thailand’s third bid for a seat on the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) for 2025-27, slated for October, could be in jeopardy if it decides to dissolve the opposition Move Forward party on August 7th. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334614-disbanding-move-forward-could-endanger-thailand’s-bid-for-unhrc-membership/

The Constitutional Court has been warned that Thailand’s third bid for a seat on the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) for 2025-27, slated for October, could be in jeopardy if it decides to dissolve the opposition Move Forward party on August 7th. This warning comes from Chamnan Chanruang, a core member of the Progressive movement, led by former Future Forward party leader Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit. Chamnan pointed out that Thailand is also set to host the 6th symposium of the Association of Asian Constitutional Courts and Equivalent Institutions (AACC) in Bangkok from September 17th to 21st. The event will see presidents of charter courts and equivalent institutions from 19 countries participating, raising questions over how the Thai Constitutional Court president would justify such a decision to his counterparts, reported Thai PBS. Thailand’s previous attempt to secure a UNHRC seat failed due to the diplomatic fallout from the 2014 coup and subsequent increases in human rights violations, including the misuse of the lèse majesté law to target political opponents. Chamnan suggested that dissolving the Move Forward party could hinder Thailand's current bid. He mentioned a possibility that the Constitutional Court may spare Move Forward by rejecting the Election Commission’s (EC) petition demanding the party’s dissolution on procedural grounds. The EC’s failure to follow proper submission protocols could lead the court to drop the petition. However, Chamnan pointed out that, even if dismissed, the petition could be resubmitted after correcting the procedural faults. Notably, the Move Forward party and its former leader, Pita Limjaroenrat, have already been ordered to cease all activities related to amending the lèse majesté law in a January ruling. If the court opts to dissolve the party, Chamnan asserted that its members and MPs would join a new party, which would not be bound by the court’s earlier ruling. This new entity would continue the campaign for amendments to the controversial law. Thailand’s international standing and its bid for a UNHRC seat thus hang in the balance as the Constitutional Court's decision looms. File photo courtesy: Thai PBS -- 2024-08-05 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Srettha, Anutin laugh off speculation of “substitute PM” Thai media have been rife with speculation that Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul is only a few steps away from taking over the country’s top executive post from Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334613-srettha-anutin-laugh-off-speculation-of-“substitute-pm”/

Thai media have been rife with speculation that Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul is only a few steps away from taking over the country’s top executive post from Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. “Substitute prime minister” is the term they have been using in recent weeks when referring to the leader of Bhumjaithai, the second largest partner in the Srettha coalition government. The speculation has become more intense as Thailand's Constitutional Court is set to rule on Srettha’s political fate on August 14. Srettha is accused of a serious breach of political ethics by appointing a lawyer with conviction record to join his Cabinet in late April this year. If found guilty, Srettha will be disqualified as prime minister along with his government. The House of Representatives will need to vote for a new prime minister. That’s why all eyes have been on Anutin as Srettha’s potential successor. Many analysts have concurred that Pheu Thai leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra, supposedly the first in line to succeed Srettha if something is to happen to him, is not yet ready for the job. Full story: Thai PBS 2024-08-05 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

US Senator Warns Over Move Forward Party Dissolution Senator Ben Cardin. File photo courtesy: Middle East Observer Senator Ben Cardin, head of the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee, has raised alarm over the potential dissolution of Thailand's Move Forward Party, which faces allegations of trying to subvert the nation's democratic system. This move, he warns, could harm Thailand's democratic principles. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334612-us-senator-warns-over-move-forward-party-dissolution/

Senator Ben Cardin, head of the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee, has raised alarm over the potential dissolution of Thailand's Move Forward Party, which faces allegations of trying to subvert the nation's democratic system. This move, he warns, could harm Thailand's democratic principles. Sen. Cardin wrote to Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa, stressing the recent election saw a historic turnout with over 39 million voters. The Move Forward Party, which received support from more than 14 million citizens, emerged victorious. Despite this clear mandate, the Election Commission has moved to dissolve the party, citing charges of subversive activities. The Constitutional Court is set to rule on the party's fate on August 7. A verdict against the party could lead to its dissolution and bar its key officials from politics for a decade. Senator Cardin emphasized that such a decision would disenfranchise millions who voted for progressive change, threatening Thailand's democratic commitment. “If the Move Forward Party is dissolved, this decision will effectively disenfranchise millions of voters who called for progressive change and democratic reform,” stated Cardin. He underscored the need for Thailand to uphold democratic values that underpin its long-term relationship with the US. Cardin also called on the Srettha government to respect the will of the people and maintain a commitment to democracy and the rule of law. “I sincerely hope that Thailand will navigate this period with a steadfast commitment to democracy, ensuring that the voices of its people are heard and respected,” he said. The international community is closely watching the situation. Diplomatic interest has been evident, with European diplomats meeting recently with Pita Limjaroenrat, Move Forward's chief advisor, to discuss the legal and political environment. Additionally, Pita and his team met with ambassadors from Asia and the West at the German ambassador's residence to discuss Thailand's democratic crisis. As the court date approaches, the world is keenly observing how Thailand will address these challenges to its democracy. TOP: Senator Ben Cardin. File photo courtesy: Middle East Observer -- 2024-08-05 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Monday 5 August 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1334610-thailand-live-monday-5-august-2024/

Pattaya City police intervened to halt a confrontation involving Middle Eastern tourists, primarily from Kuwait, and young Thai men, many of whom were Bolt motorbike taxi app riders, in the early hours of yesterday. Pattaya cops stop brawl between Kuwaiti tourists & Thai bikers by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of ข่าวพัทยา Pattayanews Facebook Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334609-pattaya-cops-stop-brawl-between-kuwaiti-tourists-thai-bikers/

Pattaya City police intervened to halt a confrontation involving Middle Eastern tourists, primarily from Kuwait, and young Thai men, many of whom were Bolt motorbike taxi app riders, in the early hours of yesterday. Captain Pansan Krongsit received the report at 5am, Saturday, August 3, leading officers to Soi Yen Sabai in Nongprue, where they discovered evidence of a conflict, including broken glass scattered on the ground. Witnesses and locals recounted that over a dozen young Thai motorbike riders had been engaged in a heated dispute and physical altercation with dozens of Middle Eastern men, mainly Kuwaiti nationals. The altercation escalated, with rocks being thrown, resulting in damage to nearby businesses. The precise cause of the conflict remains unclear, though tensions have been high due to complaints about the foreign tourists, who are reportedly students on school leave. These students have allegedly disrespected locals and caused disturbances by racing motorbikes without proper licences, registration, or documentation. Several Kuwaiti nationals sustained injuries during the conflict. CCTV footage captured scenes of foreign tourists, mostly Kuwaiti students, fleeing and taking refuge in nearby shops as groups of irate young Thai men hurled rocks and shouted at them. The police instructed business owners and injured parties to file official reports to facilitate a formal investigation. In the meantime, police are reviewing CCTV footage to identify both Thai and foreign individuals involved in the disturbances, reported The Pattaya News. Complaints from locals about the foreign tourists have been mounting, with accusations of the tourists disrupting the peace and quiet of the area. These grievances have contributed to rising tensions between the different groups, leading to incidents such as the recent confrontation. In related news, residents in Soi Yen Sabai, Pattaya, urged police officers to take action against Kuwaiti motorcycle racers following a noise pollution disturbance and a recent physical altercation on July 13. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of ข่าวพัทยา Pattayanews Facebook Full story: The Thaiger 2024-08-05 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Nostalgia for Prayut Grows as "We Miss Loong Tu" Goes Viral When former Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha was in office, he faced significant criticism from the Thai online community, largely due to his rise to power through a coup. His actions and policies were often met with hostility, with some even criticising trivial things like his mannerisms and speech. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334541-nostalgia-for-prayut-grows-as-we-miss-loong-tu-goes-viral/

When former Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha was in office, he faced significant criticism from the Thai online community, largely due to his rise to power through a coup. His actions and policies were often met with hostility, with some even criticising trivial things like his mannerisms and speech. Despite this history, a surprising change has recently taken place on Thai social media. A catchy tune titled “We Miss Loong Tu” has gone viral, sparking a wave of nostalgia for the former leader. The song, which blends pop and dance elements, praises Prayut’s contributions and dedication to the Thai monarchy. Lyrics include, “Loong Tu is the one who stands up for us and does a lot of work. He makes us smile and would sacrifice his life for the monarchy. We miss Loong Tu, aha, aha.” Accompanying the music are engaging videos created by netizens, many featuring lip-syncing and dance routines. One TikToker, @apple28954, shared a clip with the caption, “I miss you, Loong Tu, very much. When you were in office, I criticised you a lot. I’m sorry.” Another user, @tip-time48, showcased her entire family expressing their fondness for Prayut, despite previous criticisms. Political analysts suggest this trend may be partly due to dissatisfaction with the current government. The new leadership, headed by the Pheu Thai party, has been criticised for failing to address urgent national issues. Their focus on the “digital wallet” scheme, a major campaign promise, has overshadowed other pressing concerns. Sudarat Keyuraphan, leader of the Thai Sang Thai party, echoed public sentiment in a recent interview, questioning whether the current administration’s shortcomings have led to the growing nostalgia, reported Thai PBS. When asked about the trend, current Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin acknowledged Prayut’s long tenure and his accomplishments. However, the true identity of the TikTok user “Celestial Sound,” who produced the viral song, remains a mystery. They stated their independence from political affiliations and clarified that artificial intelligence was only used for musical composition, not as a stance. Interestingly, Celestial Sound hinted at more politically charged content to come, with a song about Thaksin Shinawatra, another influential figure in Thai politics, on the horizon. As this nostalgic wave continues to ripple across social media, it remains to be seen how it will shape public opinion and political discourse in Thailand. -- 2024-08-03 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe