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Phuket's Flooded by Inadequate Infrastructure Amid Rapid Growth File photo courtesy: Thai Rath Phuket's rapid urbanisation clashes with underdeveloped infrastructure, unmasking the island’s dire challenges. Recent heavy rainfall and widespread flooding highlight the urgency for crucial upgrades and the consequences of insufficient government budgeting. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331357-phukets-flooded-by-inadequate-infrastructure-amid-rapid-growth/

Phuket's rapid urbanisation clashes with underdeveloped infrastructure, unmasking the island’s dire challenges. Recent heavy rainfall and widespread flooding highlight the urgency for crucial upgrades and the consequences of insufficient government budgeting. Thaneth Tantipiriyakij, President of the Phuket Tourist Association, voiced serious concerns. Despite Phuket attracting 60% first-time tourists, many could be deterred by inconveniences stemming from inadequate infrastructure. Severe weekend storms inundated key areas, such as Thep Krasattri Road, disrupting travel and causing flight diversions. While hotel areas remained relatively untouched, the underlying issues are inescapable. New planning laws allowing property development above 140 meters elevate fears around natural drainage disruption and potential landslides. Thaneth cautioned that these developments might exacerbate future flooding incidents, urging local authorities to rigorously assess environmental impacts before proceeding with projects. The island's budget woes further compound its problems. Phuket receives an annual allocation of 170 million baht—a paltry sum compared to major tourist destinations like Bangkok and Pattaya, each enjoying over a billion baht. Thaneth stressed that even basic water management and drainage systems require at least a billion baht, underlining the disparity and its debilitating impact. Prominent projects remain stagnant despite frequent visits from the Thai prime minister. Vital upgrades like the Patong Tunnel, additional main roads, a new motorway, and a public train system have yet to materialise. Thaneth underlined the importance of robust public infrastructure in leaving a positive, lasting impression on tourists, calling it essential for long-term competitiveness. "Public infrastructure, like airports and roads, form tourists' first impressions. Convenience ensues long-term competitiveness," he stressed. While Phuket anticipates a full recovery with over 400 billion baht in tourism revenue this year, driven by high expenditures and prolonged stays from visitors, the current challenges cannot be ignored. Key markets like Russia, China, and India continue to bolster the island's tourism, but addressing the infrastructural gaps is imperative for sustaining growth. File photo courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-07-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Man Alerts Public to Perverted Underwear Thief Picture courtesy: Daily News A Thai man is warning locals, especially women, to be on the lookout for a pervert with an underwear fetish after finding a large quantity of female lingerie on a eucalyptus plantation in the Isaan province of Nakhon Ratchasima. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331354-thai-man-alerts-public-to-perverted-underwear-thief/

A Thai man is warning locals, especially women, to be on the lookout for a pervert with an underwear fetish after finding a large quantity of female lingerie on a eucalyptus plantation in the Isaan province of Nakhon Ratchasima. Banlaeng Sukkratoke, 49, shared videos of panties and bras hung on wooden racks in the plantation on Facebook and TikTok on Sunday, June 30. His caption read, “Warning to all women to be aware when drying underwear.” In the video, bras and panties hung separately on two wooden racks. Banlaeng revealed that one of his workers found the unusual display and reported it to him. Speaking to Channel 8, Banlaeng clarified he hadn't arranged the lingerie display for attention or a stunt. He even took reporters to the specific spot where the underwear was discovered. Channel 8 journalists observed an imprint in the ground at the scene, suggesting someone had lain between the racks of underwear. Banlaeng believes the underwear was stolen and displayed by a deviant thief possibly carrying out perverse acts. -- 2024-07-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Encouraged to Embrace Solar Energy for Economic Gains Picture courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand's abundant sunlight offers a prime opportunity for a solar energy revolution, yet high initial costs and complex regulations hinder widespread adoption. Fulln story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331350-thailand-encouraged-to-embrace-solar-energy-for-economic-gains/

Thailand's abundant sunlight offers a prime opportunity for a solar energy revolution, yet high initial costs and complex regulations hinder widespread adoption. Piyasak Pichetanawin, Vice President of the Solar Energy Association of Thailand, urges the government to promote solar energy use, particularly in the industrial sector. Piyasak highlights the crucial role of green energy in reducing operational costs for businesses. He advocates for public education on the economic and environmental benefits of clean solar energy. To stay competitive globally, Thailand must integrate solar energy into manufacturing, following European nations' lead in requiring imports to be produced with clean energy. Many industries are transitioning to clean energy to sustain export markets, and without this shift, Piyasak warns that Thailand may struggle to compete with nations already adopting cleaner technologies. Implementing solar energy in heavy industries can lower production costs and offer potential tax exemptions. The cost of clean energy technology has become more affordable, with solar panel prices dropping by over 30%. The technology is now easier to install, use, and maintain, with a longer lifespan, making broader adoption feasible. Piyasak notes growing public interest in clean energy, with projects ensuring high standards by qualified contractors. Clean energy is now used in various sectors, from national utilities to shopping centers and households. He emphasizes the need for government support in simplifying approval processes for solar panel installations and calls for policy adjustments to make clean energy affordable and accessible. Despite Thailand's strong energy security framework, barriers to clean energy access remain, and making it convenient for the public is crucial. In conclusion, Piyasak underscores Thailand's solar potential, urging Thais to harness their abundant sunlight effectively despite common complaints about the heat. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-07-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

New Pathum Thani CEO suspended over corruption allegations by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation The newly elected CEO of Pathum Thani Provincial Administration finds himself unable to assume office due to an ongoing corruption investigation. This dramatic development has left the province in a state of political uncertainty. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331349-new-pathum-thani-ceo-suspended-over-corruption-allegations/

The newly elected CEO of Pathum Thani Provincial Administration finds himself unable to assume office due to an ongoing corruption investigation. This dramatic development has left the province in a state of political uncertainty. Secretary-General of the Council of State Pakorn Nilprapunt announced that Charn Puangphet had been suspended from duties in 2012. The suspension stemmed from allegations dating back to 2011, accusing Charn of embezzling state funds. The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) voted unanimously to indict him, claiming he siphoned money meant for flood relief supplies in Pathum Thani. The Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases Area 1 accepted the case, suspending Charn from duty until the trial’s conclusion. The next court hearing is scheduled for mid-July. Pakorn clarified that this suspension extends to Charn’s current appointment, meaning he will be suspended immediately upon taking office to prevent any interference with the legal proceedings. Charn clinched the Pathum Thani CEO election on Sunday with 203,032 votes, narrowly defeating the incumbent, Khamronwit Thupkrachang, who garnered 201,212 votes. Despite the controversy, a source from the Interior Ministry noted that Charn was not disqualified as a candidate since he had not been convicted. The Local Administration Department explained to Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul that without a conviction, Charn remains eligible to contest the election. This loophole allows him to participate in politics despite the severe allegations against him. Adding to the scandal, Charn is also under investigation for allegedly approving overpriced gym equipment procurement between 2012 and 2013, with costs reportedly inflated by 40 million baht, reported The Nation. ORIGINAL STORY: Charn wins Pathum Thani presidency by narrow margin Charn Puangpetch, supported by the ruling Pheu Thai Party, secured the presidency of the Pathum Thani Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO) yesterday. In a closely contested election, Charn garnered 203,032 votes, edging out Police Lieutenant General Kamronwit Toopkrajang, who received 201,212 votes. The narrow victory margin of 1,820 votes marks a comeback for Charn, who had previously lost the seat to Kamronwit in 2020. Charn expressed his gratitude last night at his residence in Sam Khok district, thanking the people of Pathum Thani for their support. Charn also acknowledged the significant backing from the Pheu Thai Party and Thaksin Shinawatra. “I am glad that the people of Pathum Thani supported me, I must thank the Pheu Thai Party and Thaksin Shinawatra for their great support.” At 62 years old, Charn faced 72 year old Kamronwit, who is a former Bangkok Police Commissioner, as the main competitor in this provincial race. Charn’s political journey includes three terms as Pathum Thani PAO president until his defeat in 2020, when Kamronwit, then supported by Pheu Thai, took over. Political observers noted the presence of Thaksin and key Pheu Thai figures in Pathum Thani in the lead-up to the PAO election, promoting Charn’s campaign and the party’s agenda. The influence of Thaksin’s political lineage, rooted in the Thai Rak Thai party, has seen a shift in Pathum Thani. In the General Election on May 14, 2023, the Move Forward Party (MFP) claimed most House seats, overtaking Pheu Thai in the province. Despite the MFP’s victory in the General Election, their path to power was obstructed, resulting in a coalition government led by Pheu Thai and military-aligned parties. Current opinion surveys indicate a growing support for MFP and its leading figures for government leadership and the prime ministerial post, compared to the last election. In contrast, the popularity of Pheu Thai and its prime ministerial candidates has seen a significant decline. Pol. Lt. Gen. Kamronwit was seen yesterday, June 30, casting his vote in Thanyaburi district, Pathum Thani, embodying the competitive spirit of this tightly fought election, reported Bangkok Post. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

British Teacher Assaulted by Phuket Tailor in Front of Her Children Picture courtesy: Daily News A British teacher in Phuket has initiated legal action after being assaulted by a well-known local tailor in front of her children. The incident unfolded in the Cheng Lay area, sparking concerns over how altercations are handled by local authorities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331347-british-teacher-assaulted-by-phuket-tailor-in-front-of-her-children/

A British teacher in Phuket has initiated legal action after being assaulted by a well-known local tailor in front of her children. The incident unfolded in the Cheng Lay area, sparking concerns over how altercations are handled by local authorities. Ms. Inder, a teacher at an international school in Phuket, recounted her distressing experience on the popular Phuket Hot Page. She detailed how an argument over tailoring prices escalated into violence. According to Ms. Inder, the disagreement began when she visited a tailoring shop to discuss a dress alteration. The negotiation turned heated, and the shop owner, angered by her insistence, allegedly slapped her, causing her to fall while her children watched in horror. Following the assault, Ms. Inder promptly reported the incident to the Cheng Talay Police Station. However, she was disheartened when the police initially suggested a settlement between her and the tailor, an option she outrightly rejected. She expressed her confusion and dissatisfaction, insisting on taking the matter through the full legal process to ensure accountability. On July 2, 2014, Pol. Lt. Kittipong Noo Peng, the investigating officer at Cheng Talay Police Station, confirmed the complaint and described the altercation's background. "The disagreement over the tailoring price led to an unfortunate escalation," he noted, adding that the incident had evidently shaken Ms. Inder, especially given that it occurred in front of her children. The accused tailor, currently identified only as a man, remains uncommunicative. He has informed the authorities through intermediaries that he will present himself for questioning on July 4, 2024, as he is currently out of the province. The police have assured that the matter will follow the legal process to its conclusion. The episode has prompted a dialogue about the treatment of foreign residents in Phuket and how disputes involving them are resolved, with many calling for more stringent enforcement of the law to protect expatriates and tourists alike. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-07-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Missing Young Canadian Man Found Drowned at Phang Nga Beach By Goongnang Suksawat Phang Nga – A Canadian man who had been reported missing on Sunday (June 30th) was tragically found dead at a beach in the Takua Thung district on Monday (July 1st). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331344-missing-young-canadian-man-found-drowned-at-phang-nga-beach/

Phang Nga – A Canadian man who had been reported missing on Sunday (June 30th) was tragically found dead at a beach in the Takua Thung district on Monday (July 1st). The Khok Kloi Police told the Phuket Express that on Sunday (June 30th) in the afternoon, they were notified of the missing man from a friend identified only as MR. Michael, 58, an American national. He stayed at a villa at the Na Tai Beach in the Khok Kloi sub-district with MR. Christopher, 20, the missing Canadian national and three other people. On Sunday morning despite a full search Mr. Michael and his friends did not find MR. Christopher at the villa. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-07-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Wednesday 3 July 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331343-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-wednesday-3-july-2024/

An academic in Yala has criticized the slow progress of peace talks in the deep South after a car bomb outside police flats last Sunday killed a woman and injured 16. He stressed that such incidents should never happen and called for stronger efforts to prevent further losses. Mr. Tayudin noted that the peace dialogue panel, established to resolve the conflict in the troubled region, has made no significant progress in maintaining peace. A giant crane collapsed at a construction site east of Bangkok yesterday, killing two and injuring seven. The crane fell on a cement mixer truck and a one-story office building at a waste disposal plant site. The injuries occurred as seven workers were struck by glass and debris. The government will launch a "Thailand Zero Dropout" initiative to bring over 1 million out-of-school children back to formal education. The plan includes creating a student database, providing tailored curriculums, and encouraging students to return. The private sector will be asked to offer scholarships, and a new app will launch later this month to support the effort. The government has promised to consider lifting the afternoon ban on the sale of alcohol with the aim to help restaurant operators who say the poor economy is hurting their business. The Restaurant business club suggested reducing building and land tax rates. They claim operating costs and the price of ingredients continues to rise which has forced many businesses to close Bangkok's local authorities says its target of planting 1 million trees has been reached earlier than expected, the council announced it would mark it’s achievement by planting another million trees. Around the region. Indonesia’s Ministry of Communication has repeatedly apologized for last month's ransomware attack, which disrupted government services and drew public criticism. While immigration and passport services have resumed, only five of over 200 affected agencies have had their databases restored. The database of some 800,000 prospective university students has been permanently lost due to inadequate backups. Todays’ WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: Cloudy with thunder showers 33C degrees celsius Bangkok: cloudy 34 Pattaya: Cloudy with thunder showers 32 Phuket and the south: Cloudy with showers 31 Hua Hin: Bright but cloudy Cloudy with isolated showers late afternoon or early evening, 33 AQI: green which is good Green clear, yellow moderate, Orange High, Red unhealthy. Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Windy.com. Wunderground.com -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-07-03 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Monk Defrocked for Late-Night Van Ride at Na Jomtien Beach Picture courtesy: MGR online A Buddhist monk was defrocked after being caught by concerned residents driving around in a van and enjoying seaside views at Sattahip’s Na Jomtien Beach early Tuesday morning, July 2nd, 2024. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331341-monk-defrocked-for-late-night-van-ride-at-na-jomtien-beach/

A Buddhist monk was defrocked after being caught by concerned residents driving around in a van and enjoying seaside views at Sattahip’s Na Jomtien Beach early Tuesday morning, July 2nd, 2024. At 12:10 AM today, Mr. Udom Suwankana, the head of Na Jomtien Village 1, along with his assistants, inspected the Na Jomtien Beach area in front of the Khao Tom Setthi restaurant in response to reports from residents who had seen a monk driving an old yellow Isuzu van. The residents questioned whether the man was genuinely a monk and if his behavior was appropriate. At the beach, authorities found the monk, identified as 76-year-old Luang Ta Noo Thi Thinrat, sitting in the driver’s seat in orange monk attire. However, he could not produce his current monk certificate when asked and only had an old one issued in 1991 from Wat Jomsri in Udon Thani province. Picture courtesy Daily News via Line Inside the van, authorities found alms food scattered around, some already rotten, a pile of excrement, and several casual clothes, which he claimed belonged to his disabled son. Luang Ta Noo Thi claimed to authorities that he had driven from his residence in Nakhon Ratchasima province to Sattahip to take his disabled son (not present at the scene) to the beach. He argued that no police officers had questioned him at checkpoints, as they knew him well. He stated that he was ordained because he was too old to do anything else. Now that he had been defrocked, he was unsure what to do next and planned to drive back to his hometown. Authorities concluded that although driving is not a serious offense for a monk, the Supreme Sangha Council has prohibited monks from driving cars. They added that Luang Ta Noo Thi’s claim of driving to enjoy the beach at night also damaged the image of Buddhist monks. Moreover, he had no clear affiliation with any temple and lacked a current monk certificate. Therefore, the monks accompanying the authorities decided to defrock Luang Ta Noo Thi before allowing him to drive back home. According to local media reports, Luang Ta Noo Thi had been previously accused of using animals, such as dogs, goats, and donkeys, to pull carts to solicit alms. This action resulted in him facing multiple charges of animal cruelty and eventually being disrobed previously. TOP Picture courtesy: MGR online -- 2024-07-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Bill Proposed to Curb Child Obesity by Regulating AI-Driven Junk Food Ads File photo courtesy: Wikipedia A new bill designed to curb child obesity by safeguarding children from modern AI-driven marketing tactics that encourage unhealthy eating habits is set to be presented to legislators. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331339-bill-proposed-to-curb-child-obesity-by-regulating-ai-driven-junk-food-ads/

A new bill designed to curb child obesity by safeguarding children from modern AI-driven marketing tactics that encourage unhealthy eating habits is set to be presented to legislators. The Deputy Director-General of the Department of Health, Pongpol Vorapani, spoke during the final public hearing of the bill, noting that the high rate of obesity among Thai children, which has more than doubled over the past two decades, is primarily linked to the overconsumption of unhealthy foods. The Food and Non-alcoholic Beverages Marketing Control Bill aims to raise awareness among children and their parents about modern marketing tactics that cleverly utilise AI to increase children’s exposure to advertisements that heighten their cravings for unhealthy snacks and drinks. The Health Department considers obesity and other non-communicable diseases to pose a significant health threat to young Thais and to be a leading cause of premature death. "The rate of obesity has largely stemmed from unhealthy dietary choices, including eating too much sweet, fatty, and salty food, and drinking sweetened beverages such as sodas and carbonated fizzy drinks," said Vorapani. Marketing strategies employed by producers of these products significantly influence youngsters to make poor dietary choices, he added. A lecturer at the Institute for Population and Social Research, Mahidol University, Nongnuch Jindarattanaporn, highlighted that more than 50% of Thai children are exposed to these marketing tactics. She cited examples such as crunchy snacks packaged with famous cartoon characters and fizzy drinks promoted by celebrities or social media influencers. Social media platforms like YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and X are the top choices for attracting young people’s attention to junk food, said Nongnuch. "These marketing strategies have raised the target age groups’ cravings for these products by about 45%," she noted. As the bill moves forward, it seeks to implement stricter regulations on how junk food is marketed to the youth, particularly on digital platforms. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-07-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Senator Ratifications Delayed Amidst Vote-Rigging Allegations Picture courtesy: Thai Rath The official ratification of all 200 senators-designate, initially scheduled for tomorrow, is expected to be postponed amid serious allegations of vote-rigging and other electoral irregularities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331338-senator-ratifications-delayed-amidst-vote-rigging-allegations/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath The official ratification of all 200 senators-designate, initially scheduled for tomorrow, is expected to be postponed amid serious allegations of vote-rigging and other electoral irregularities. Thailand's Election Commission is facing considerable pressure to delay confirming the 200 main senators and an additional 100 reserves. The move comes after numerous complaints were filed by defeated candidates, alleging bloc-vote rigging and false declarations of professions by certain winning candidates. These claims have led to calls for thorough, evidence-based investigations, a process likely to extend over a significant period. A key insider from the Election Commission, speaking on condition of anonymity, suggested that the scrutiny required for a fair investigation into these allegations will be time-consuming. Many of the victorious candidates are accused of having clandestine ties with the Bhumjaithai party, allegedly orchestrated through intermediaries who distributed lists of preferred candidates during secret meetings at nearby hotels. These meetings took place near the Muang Thong Thani trade exhibition and convention centre, the venue for the national stage of the election. Accusations also include candidates falsifying career information to position themselves as "puppet" contestants, receiving financial incentives for their participation. This senatorial election is unprecedented in its complexity. Candidates received votes from their peers within the electoral pool rather than from a general electorate. Although the Election Commission had previously stated the ratification could proceed as early as tomorrow, it's now highly likely the process will be delayed. The Commission has a legal timeframe of one year to complete its investigations into the alleged electoral misconduct. This retroactive measure allows the body to nullify the status of any senators found guilty of election law violations, ensuring only validly elected individuals serve in the legislature. -- 2024-07-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Navy Chief Alarmed by Government's Delay on Chinese Submarine Picture courtesy: CHINA DAILY Admiral Adung Pan-iam, Navy Chief, has voiced concerns over the Pheu Thai-led government's delay in approving the navy's plan to purchase a Chinese-built submarine. This issue is creating a stir in military and political circles, highlighting the complexities surrounding defence procurement. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331337-navy-chief-alarmed-by-governments-delay-on-chinese-submarine/

Admiral Adung Pan-iam, Navy Chief, has voiced concerns over the Pheu Thai-led government's delay in approving the navy's plan to purchase a Chinese-built submarine. This issue is creating a stir in military and political circles, highlighting the complexities surrounding defence procurement. The initial contract was for a Yuan-class S26T submarine equipped with a German MTU396 engine. However, complications arose when the navy proposed substituting it with a Chinese-made CHD620 engine, which has yet to be used in submarines anywhere, including in China's own fleet. This alteration has put the deal, valued at 12.4 billion baht (£282 million), in limbo. A substantial part of the payment, around 7 billion baht (£159 million), has already been made, further complicating the situation. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has expressed legal concerns over the engine swap. This has delayed the final cabinet approval, causing tension among naval commanders, especially for Admiral Adung, who is set to retire at the end of September. He is eager for the purchase to be finalised before his departure. Pheu Thai’s Defence Minister, Suthin Khlangsang, suggested buying a frigate instead of the problematic submarine. However, top navy officials are adamant about getting the submarine, citing operational needs and prior commitments. The decision to choose the S26T submarine over other options, such as secondhand German or Swedish submarines, was initially sanctioned by a previous military-led government shortly before the retirement of former Navy Chief Luechai Ruddit in 2020. Ruddit had pushed for this specific model, dismissing alternatives like a South Korean-built submarine. As tensions mount, the navy awaits the final go-ahead while political and defence leaders weigh the ramifications of altering or sustaining the current procurement plan. This situation not only underscores the challenges in military acquisitions but also reflects broader strategic and political considerations at play. Picture courtesy: CHINA DAILY -- 2024-07-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Unveils Ambitious “Zero Dropout” Program Picture courtesy: Wikimedia Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin expressed deep concern over the alarming statistics showing that around one million Thai youths aged 3-18 have dropped out of school. This concern prompted the launch of the “Thailand Zero Dropout” program, a top-priority national agenda aimed at reversing this troubling trend. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331335-thailand-unveils-ambitious-“zero-dropout”-program/

Picture courtesy: Wikimedia Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin expressed deep concern over the alarming statistics showing that around one million Thai youths aged 3-18 have dropped out of school. This concern prompted the launch of the “Thailand Zero Dropout” program, a top-priority national agenda aimed at reversing this troubling trend. Government spokesman Chai Wacharonke announced the adoption of four crucial measures at yesterday’s cabinet meeting, which are to be rolled out across all provinces without delay. The first step involves locating these dropouts. Following that, tailored support will be provided to address the specific needs of each child, ensuring they return to school. A key element of the program is the development of a flexible learning system, designed to cater to the potential and varying circumstances of these young individuals. This will help them continue their education and harness their abilities effectively. Additionally, the government aims to engage the private sector in a proactive role concerning educational management, implementing the “learning to earn” system that blends vocational training with academic education. Sompong Chitradab, a noted educator and member of the Fund for Educational Equality Committee, highlighted that approximately one million secondary school students dropped out last year — nearly double the figure from previous years. The reasons cited include poverty, political unrest, and a myriad of socio-economic issues. Many families, grappling with financial instability worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic, felt compelled to pull their children out of school. Sompong emphasized that the cooperation agreement signed on June 28 between the Education Ministry and 11 affiliated agencies must translate into immediate action. This entails locating these dropouts, assessing their home situations, providing welfare and financial support for education, and securing employment for their parents if necessary. He further criticised the previous Prayut government for neglecting the dropout issue, stressing that the educational system requires significant restructuring. To meet the unique needs of dropouts, the system must be more flexible and inclusive, opening itself up to greater involvement from the private sector and local organisations. In conclusion, the “Thailand Zero Dropout” initiative represents a comprehensive effort to support and reintegrate dropouts, aiming for an inclusive and adaptive educational framework that can handle these challenging circumstances. -- 2024-07-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Intoxicated Foreigner Arrested After Causing Public Disturbance on Bangla Road By Goongnang Suksawat Patong – An intoxicated male foreigner was arrested after he caused a public nuisance near a hotel on the Bangla Road in Patong. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331334-intoxicated-foreigner-arrested-after-causing-public-disturbance-on-bangla-road/