webfact

File photo courtesy of Wikipedia Thailand's solar scene is heating up as a new government initiative speeds up solar panel installations on factory rooftops. A one-stop service centre aims to eliminate bureaucracy, paving the way for more than 72,000 factories to jump on the solar bandwagon. This collaboration between the Energy, Interior, and Industry ministries, approved on March 27, promises to streamline the permit process, possibly revolutionizing the sector. Naruechon Dhumrongpiyawut, of Gunkul Engineering Plc, claims this could dramatically boost the photovoltaic market and sales of battery energy storage systems (BESS). BESS enables factories to store surplus solar energy, providing power even during low-sunlight hours or selling excess energy, pending approval. The current process requires navigating six state agencies, often delaying solar panel approvals for six months or more. Treerat Sirichantaropas, CEO of New Energy Plus Solutions Co, is optimistic, envisioning more factories leaving behind costly grid power. He foresees increased revenues for his company, following last year's earnings of 200 million baht. Meanwhile, Pattaya City is pushing its green agenda, aiming to become a low-carbon tourism hub. Pattaya's mayor, Poramet Ngampichet, supports solar power and clean energy solutions to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. With these forward-thinking initiatives, Thailand may be on the brink of a renewable energy boom, boosting its clean energy profile one factory rooftop at a time. The implications for factories are profound, as they could soon swiftly transition to renewable energy sources, enhancing sustainability across the nation. Based on a story by The Thaiger -- 2025-04-01

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra finds herself embroiled in another scandal as allegations surface concerning her spouse’s reported failure to declare all assets. The controversy centres on the failure to report a hefty 1.6 million baht cash profit from corporate shares sold by husband Pitaka Suksawat. This omission could lead to possible legal actions and has already sparked intense media scrutiny. The potential fallout could be severe. A formal petition might soon be lodged with the Constitutional Court to impeach Paetongtarn if these allegations hold water. This echoes the fate of her predecessor, Srettha Thavisin, who was dethroned due to similar indiscretions. Being the daughter of Thaksin Shinawatra, her political ties invite additional attention to her administration and its moral standing. Further complicating matters, Paetongtarn faces questioning over an eye-watering 218 million baht in allegedly evaded tax. This figure relates to 4.4 billion baht in corporate share profits supposedly linked to promissory transactions with her family. People’s MP Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn has urged Thailand's Revenue Department to dive deeper, considering accusations of potential tax evasion strategies attributed to her leadership. As the dust settles, the saga around Paetongtarn’s alleged asset concealments could have larger implications for her political career and public perception. Whether these charges materialise into formal sanctions remains to be seen, yet the ripple effect has undeniably intensified scrutiny over her and her administration. How this impacts her premiership and future leadership credibility will be closely observed by political analysts and the public alike. Based on a story by Thai Newsroom -- 2025-04-01

Rescuers work at the site of an under-construction high-rise building that collapsed after an earthquake in Bangkok, Thailand, Monday, March, 31, 2025. (AP Photo/Manish Swarup) In the aftermath of a devastating earthquake, a Bangkok skyscraper has tragically collapsed, claiming at least 11 lives. An anti-corruption watchdog had previously highlighted irregularities in its construction. The Thai government swiftly launched a probe into whether sub-standard materials, particularly steel, were used. Last week's 7.7 magnitude quake, centred in Myanmar, shook neighbouring countries, with the skyscraper, designed for Thailand's State Audit Office, being the sole casualty in Bangkok. Rescuers are urgently searching for 76 individuals feared trapped under the debris of the unfinished 30-storey structure, whose construction began in 2020. The project, a collaboration between Italian Thai Development PCL and China's China Railway Number 10 (Thailand) Ltd, faced serious delays. It was originally due for completion by 2026 but was only 30% complete. The watchdog's site inspections during its construction flagged potential corner-cutting, worker shortages, and severe delays, leading the government to consider canceling the contract earlier this year. Finance Minister Akanat Promphan, overseeing the investigation, raised concerns about possible use of sub-standard steel, a suspicion currently under scrutiny. An extensive examination of materials is underway, with initial results expected shortly. In a recent crackdown, the ministry shut down seven steel factories, seizing assets worth approximately 360 million baht. China's Ambassador to Thailand affirmed China's cooperation with the ongoing investigation. Meanwhile, experts from Thailand's council of engineers speculated that the disaster might be due to either poor material quality or inadequate planning. The collapse notably contrasts with the stability of other structures in the region, highlighting a significant mystery. The official inquiry into the incident's root cause is expected to deliver findings within a week, as authorities work urgently to understand this architectural tragedy. Based on a story by Bangkok Post -- 2025-04-01

Duria, who is searching for his relatives, talks on the phone after reading the sign board of number of people dead and missing after an under-construction high-rise building collapsed in an earthquake in Bangkok, Thailand, Monday, March, 31, 2025. (AP Photo/Manish Swarup) In the wake of Friday's Myanmar earthquake, Thailand's government faces sharp criticism from the Senate for its sluggish response that saw strong tremors barrel through the country. Senator Romsit Wiriyasan catalysed the debate, highlighting the chaos of evacuations, traffic jams obstructing rescue workers, and delayed warning messages as evidence of weak crisis management. His urgent motion aims to prompt a comprehensive Upper House discussion, with recommendations set to follow for governmental and agency improvements. Pol Gen Maj Romsit aired grievances over the absence of a decisive government leader during the crisis. Senator Wutthipong Pongsuwan emphasised the lack of progress in emergency planning since the 2004 tsunami, urging for more regular disaster drills. Furthermore, the senator stressed the necessity of accelerating the 'cell broadcast service' for warning dissemination via mobile phones—improvements seen as crucial to managing future crises. Senator Nantana Nantavaropas drew comparisons to past calamities, bemoaning the repetitive inadequacy of government communication. The collapse of the State Audit Office's new building highlighted structural issues demanding investigation—a point underscored by Sen Premsak Piayura, questioning accountability within state agencies. Following these criticisms, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra convened a crisis meeting on Monday, pulling in major telecom operators like Advanced Info Service and True Corporation. Discussions centered on SMS alerts, exploring their viability as part of a proactive disaster response program. Despite SMS not being a primary alert channel, the PM pushed for improved message reach, with True Corporation's Chakkrit Urairat explaining current dissemination challenges. The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation's initial text alert, sent over an hour after the quake, triggered further scrutiny. This message, dispensed to millions in multiple batches, elicited demands for swifter delivery. Looking ahead, PM Paetongtarn called for expanded alert capacity well beyond the current 200,000-user limitation, expecting future solutions to include nationwide cell broadcast advancements by mid-2024. Ultimately, while steps towards refining Thailand’s disaster alert infrastructure are underway, the stir in the Senate underscores national calls for rapid reform and enhanced readiness—a sentiment resonating beyond this latest seismic episode in Myanmar. Based on a story by Bangkok Post -- 2025-04-01

NBTC Chairman Faces Criticism Over Delayed SMS Quake Alerts in Bangkok File photo for reference only A member of Thailand's National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) has openly criticised Chairman Sarana Boonbaichaiyapruck, blaming him for delays and failures in SMS earthquake alerts following the powerful tremors felt in Bangkok on Friday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356322-nbtc-chairman-faces-criticism-over-delayed-sms-quake-alerts-in-bangkok/

Parliament Prepares to Debate Thailand's Entertainment Complex Bill File photo for reference only Thailand is gearing up for a critical parliamentary debate on the entertainment complex bill, expected to take centre stage by April 9. The bill, approved by the Cabinet on March 27, is set to be deliberated in the House, as confirmed by chief government whip Wisut Chainarun. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356326-parliament-prepares-to-debate-thailands-entertainment-complex-bill/

Police Bust Illegal Poker Operation in Koh Samui, Arrest Five Photo courtesy of MGR online Over the past weekend, authorities from Bo Phut Police Station, alongside Surat Thani Immigration officials, conducted a successful raid on an illegal gambling operation in Koh Samui. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356336-police-bust-illegal-poker-operation-in-koh-samui-arrest-five/

to continue: Thailand Live Tuesday 1 April 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1356344-thailand-live-tuesday-1-april-2025/

TMD Assures Safety as Minor Aftershock Felt in Bangkok High-Rises Picture courtesy of KhaoSod The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has confirmed that a minor aftershock from an earthquake in Myanmar, felt in several tall buildings around Bangkok today, poses no threat to Thailand. At 11.08 am on March 31, some residents in high-rise buildings experienced shaking, prompting temporary evacuations. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356324-tmd-assures-safety-as-minor-aftershock-felt-in-bangkok-high-rises/

Drama in Pattaya: Canadian Man Found Unconscious After Heated Tiff Picture courtesy of Pattaya News In a startling case of domestic turbulence, Pattaya police quickly responded to reports of a household skirmish early yesterday morning. They found a 47-year-old Canadian national, James, sprawled unconscious amidst evidence of chaos in his home. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356286-drama-in-pattaya-canadian-man-found-unconscious-after-heated-tiff/

Picture courtesy of Pattaya News In a startling case of domestic turbulence, Pattaya police quickly responded to reports of a household skirmish early yesterday morning. They found a 47-year-old Canadian national, James, sprawled unconscious amidst evidence of chaos in his home. Displaying bruises that hinted at a nasty scuffle, James required immediate first aid and CPR from Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Foundation rescuers before being whisked away to the hospital. The aftermath inside the house told a grim tale. Broken items, a smashed plant pot, and strewn dishes painted a vivid picture of the violent confrontation. James' distressed Thai wife, Atcharaphan, 39, managed to offer a fragmented account of the events, indicating a serious domestic dispute had erupted. Pattaya News has shed more light on the fracas. Reportedly, the quarrel escalated when James allegedly pushed Atcharaphan, resulting in her fall and the breaking of a plant pot. In a surprising turn, James picked up a plate and hurled it before collapsing into unconsciousness. Curiously, security cameras in the home were found disconnected, leaving the incident unrecorded and shrouded in mystery. James' condition remains critical as police continue to decipher the incident’s tangled details through further questioning of Atcharaphan. The lack of surveillance footage has added an extra layer of complexity to the investigation, challenging officials in their quest to piece together the couple’s clash. In another sequence of alarming domestic incidents, Thailand has seen a streak of violent disputes. In Bo Rai, Trat, a heated exchange left a husband incapacitated following an irrational outburst of jealousy. Fortunately, his injuries were relatively minor, with no severe repercussions diagnosed. Meanwhile, a waitress in Pattaya has brought forth claims of a brutal street assault by coworkers. With accompanying video evidence, she accuses the local police of being lackadaisical in addressing her plight. Adding more drama to the region’s growing turmoil, her and her colleagues’ injuries serve as yet another reminder of Pattaya’s need for heightened vigilance in escalating personal conflicts. The spate of domestic unrest in Pattaya highlights a pressing need for focused interventions. As investigations proceed, authorities remain committed to uncovering the truth behind these distressing episodes, looking to bring clarity and justice to the tangled narratives emerging from the chaos. Based on a story by The Thaiger -- 2025-03-31

Paetongtarn Favored for PM, But People's Party Retains Poll Lead Over Pheu Thai Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra arrives at parliament before no-confidence vote against her in Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, March 26, 2025. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) In a dramatic twist, Paetongtarn Shinawatra of Pheu Thai takes the lead as the popular choice for Thailand's next prime minister, nudging past the previous frontrunner, Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut of the People's Party. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356282-paetongtarn-favored-for-pm-but-peoples-party-retains-poll-lead-over-pheu-thai/

Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra arrives at parliament before no-confidence vote against her in Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, March 26, 2025. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) In a dramatic twist, Paetongtarn Shinawatra of Pheu Thai takes the lead as the popular choice for Thailand's next prime minister, nudging past the previous frontrunner, Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut of the People's Party. This upheaval comes courtesy of a Nida Poll conducted between March 24-27, surveying 2,000 individuals from all walks of life across Thailand. Despite her personal popularity, Paetongtarn faces a significant challenge as her party lags behind the People's Party in overall support. The poll shows Paetongtarn with 30.90% backing, credited to her policies and a desire among voters to see her succeed further. Meanwhile, Natthaphong, who earlier led the polls, now secures 22.90% support. Voters praised him for embodying a new era of transparent and honest leadership. Curiously, a notable 23.50% of respondents remain unsure of their choice for PM, indicating potential volatility in future political landscapes. On the political party front, the People's Party maintains a commanding lead with 37.10% support, showcasing its substantial sway among the public. Pheu Thai follows with 28.05%, indicating a gap despite Paetongtarn's personal popularity. Other parties trail behind, with the United Thai Nation Party at 8.75%, and the Democrat, Bhumjaithai, Thai Sang Thai, and Palang Pracharath parties attracting more modest support. The poll highlights a landscape ripe with opportunity, as undecided voters and shifting party loyalties suggest upcoming elections could swing dramatically. As Thailand edges closer to future elections, these poll results underscore both the potential and unpredictability of its political dynamics. Voter preferences for leadership and party alignment remain fluid, portraying a nation open to change yet carefully examining its options. Whether this shift indicates a trend or a temporary blip will likely be revealed as Thailand's politically-engaged populace heads towards the ballot box. Based on a story by Bangkok Post -- 2025-03-31

Thai PM fumes over delayed quake warnings; demands action Picture courtesy of Thai PBS World Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has voiced her dissatisfaction with the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) and the Public Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department (PDPMD) over their sluggish response to the recent earthquake. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356279-thai-pm-fumes-over-delayed-quake-warnings-demands-action/

Picture courtesy of Thai PBS World Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has voiced her dissatisfaction with the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) and the Public Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department (PDPMD) over their sluggish response to the recent earthquake. During an emergency meeting today, she expressed her frustration over the delayed SMS alerts, noting that the 1.20pm quake was not reported to the public until more than an hour later. Pasakorn Boonyalak of the PDPMD stated that his department dispatched the first of four alert messages at 2.20pm after obtaining data from the Meteorological Department. The NBTC’s Acting Secretary-General, Trairat Wiriyasirikul, reported that their first SMS reached the public by 2.44pm, but was only accessible to roughly 200,000 mobile users initially. He explained ongoing improvements would soon allow up to three million messages to be transmitted simultaneously. The delayed response left many Bangkok residents, among others, without prompt warnings. Despite claims of over 10 million messages being sent out, several complaints emerged about the lack of alerts. Trairat assured that the first wave of alerts was directed to metropolitan areas, with subsequent notifications covering other provinces. Nonetheless, Prime Minister Shinawatra stressed that timely dissemination and widespread coverage need urgent rectification. Following the quake, an inquiry into a collapsed building in Chatuchak has been ordered. Public parks are now open 24/7 to provide temporary shelter for those affected. The Expressway and Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (EXAT) confirmed all expressways, except one near Din Daeng, are operational following safety inspections ruling out quake damage. In sum, the focus is on swift improvement of the SMS alert system to better serve public safety in future emergencies. Based on a story by Thai PBS World -- 2025-03-31

Seven Days Given to Investigate Collapse of Chinese-Built High-Rise Rescuers work at the site a high-rise building under construction that collapsed after a 7.7 magnitude earthquake in Bangkok, Thailand, early Saturday, March 29, 2025. (AP Photo/Wason Wanichakorn) Thailand's Interior Minister, Anutin Charnvirakul, has laid down the law, calling for a quick seven-day investigation into the sudden collapse of the State Audit Office's new high-rise in Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356262-seven-days-given-to-investigate-collapse-of-chinese-built-high-rise/

Earthquake Aftershock: Mental Toll on Thai Residents Calls for Support People wait at the damaged construction site of a high-rise building in Bangkok, Thailand, Saturday, March 29, 2025, as rescuers search for victims following its collapse after Friday's earthquake. (AP Photo/Wason Wanichakorn) Health experts are urging Thai citizens to be aware of mental health struggles following the recent earthquake's psychological aftershocks. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356261-earthquake-aftershock-mental-toll-on-thai-residents-calls-for-support/

Tragedy in Thailand: Earthquake Claims 18 Lives Amid Ruins Rescuers search for victims at the site of a high-rise building under construction that collapsed after a strong earthquake in Bangkok, Thailand, early Saturday, March 29, 2025. (AP Photo/Wason Wanichakorn) A deadly tremor in Myanmar leaves its mark on Thailand, claiming at least 18 lives, with 78 missing as of Sunday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356260-tragedy-in-thailand-earthquake-claims-18-lives-amid-ruins/

Quake Jolts Thai Tourism: Rising Concerns Over Safety Rescuers use a heavy duty machine to clear the rubble in Bangkok, Thailand, Saturday, March 29, 2025, as they search for victims at the site of a high-rise building under construction that collapsed after Friday's earthquake. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) The recent 7.7 earthquake in Myanmar has shaken up Thailand's tourism, already wobbling under safety concerns. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356259-quake-jolts-thai-tourism-rising-concerns-over-safety/

Family's Quest for Truth: Woman's Fatal Plunge During Earthquake Picture courtesy of Daily News A family in mourning demands answers after a 28-year-old woman plunged to her death from a condominium during a tremor. The tragic fall, which occurred on Friday during an earthquake impacting Thailand and Myanmar, has left loved ones questioning safety measures and searching for justice. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356258-familys-quest-for-truth-womans-fatal-plunge-during-earthquake/

Thai Airways Offers Free Changes Amid Earthquake Chaos File photo courtesy of Wikipedia In a generous move, Thai Airways is granting their passengers fee-free changes and refunds following the recent earthquake that rocked Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356255-thai-airways-offers-free-changes-amid-earthquake-chaos/

Thai Eateries Forgo Fees as Quake Hits Hard Picture courtesy of evening_tao, Freepik Thai eateries are showing a big heart after a strong earthquake rattled several provinces on March 28, leading to the collapse of buildings in Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356253-thai-eateries-forgo-fees-as-quake-hits-hard/

Bangkok Stays Calm Amid Earthquake Crisis Picture courtesy of Naewna Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt has called for calm following a powerful earthquake in Myanmar that sent shockwaves across Thailand. Engineers are hard at work inspecting buildings in Bangkok, ensuring safety and stability. Around 700 buildings were reported to have cracks, prompting immediate action to assess damage. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356250-bangkok-stays-calm-amid-earthquake-crisis/

BMA Declares All 81 Bangkok Bridges Safe Post-Myanmar Quake Picture courtesy of Amarin TV In a reassuring announcement, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) confirmed today that all 81 bridges and flyovers throughout the capital remain safe after the powerful earthquake in Myanmar's Mandalay rocked the region Friday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356249-bma-declares-all-81-bangkok-bridges-safe-post-myanmar-quake/

Earthquake Panic Empties Andaman Coast: Tourist Numbers Plunge Picture courtesy of Naewna The Andaman coast is seeing an exodus of tourists following last Friday's powerful earthquake in Myanmar. Trang Deputy Governor Anan Boonsamran, reports over half the visitors have vanished amid a frenzy of misleading social media posts. These claims, though unfounded, have led to widespread panic, causing visitors to cancel their plans. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356248-earthquake-panic-empties-andaman-coast-tourist-numbers-plunge/