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Picture courtesy: toutelathailande The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) and the Ministry of Tourism and Sports have ramped up safety measures in Yaowarat, also known as Chinatown, after a surge of tourists prompted by Lisa’s Rockstar music video. Filmed in Bangkok’s Chinatown, the video featuring Thai K-pop star Lalisa “Lisa” Manobal has captured global attention. Released on YouTube at 7 am local time, the video has already garnered an impressive 38 million views. Notably, it showcases the traditional Thai wai gesture and was shot around the famous Chaloem Buri intersection. Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt visited Yaowarat last night to check the area's readiness for the influx of visitors. He stated that BMA officials are making regular rounds in Chinatown, which is seeing a steady increase in tourist numbers. Chadchart highlighted that the existing traffic barriers along Yaowarat Road are effective in separating pedestrians from vehicles. He announced plans to extend these barriers to better accommodate the rising number of visitors. Additionally, he stressed the importance of maintaining cleanliness and mentioned that BMA street cleaners are actively working to keep the area tidy. The Samphanthawong District Office has also been instructed to install more litter bins. Traffic police have been asked to manage the congestion caused by tuk-tuk drivers waiting for passengers and by taxi drivers overcharging fares. Chadchart also outlined BMA’s plans to transform parts of Yaowarat into a walking street, increase pedestrian signals, and collaborate with local businesses to provide public toilets. “I’d like to thank Lisa for choosing Yaowarat as a filming location for the video, making the location popular worldwide,” he said. Tourism and Sports Minister Sermsak Pongpanich, alongside other ministry officials, recently inspected businesses, restaurants, and hotels in Yaowarat. He urged cooperation between private and public sectors to install more CCTV cameras, public toilets, and signs, and to improve footpaths. Many local businesses are optimistic about the economic boost expected from the tourism surge. Vendors, like those from Thai Long Jie shop, believe the trend sparked by Lisa’s music video will attract more tourists to Yaowarat, benefiting the local economy. Government Spokesman Chai Wacharonke expressed pride in Lisa, stating that her international popularity will further boost Thai tourism, making her a symbol of national pride. -- 2024-07-01 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Srettha's Support Dwindles as MFP Gains in Latest NIDA Poll Picture courtesy: Facebook เศรษฐา ทวีสิน - Srettha Thavisin Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s ongoing efforts to address national issues and promote Thailand are not resonating with the majority of voters, according to the latest NIDA Poll. Published on June 29th, the poll also highlighted a decline in the popularity of Pheu Thai Party leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra and a rise in support for the Move Forward Party (MFP). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331137-sretthas-support-dwindles-as-mfp-gains-in-latest-nida-poll/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s ongoing efforts to address national issues and promote Thailand are not resonating with the majority of voters, according to the latest NIDA Poll. Published on June 29th, the poll also highlighted a decline in the popularity of Pheu Thai Party leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra and a rise in support for the Move Forward Party (MFP). The survey revealed that only 12.85% of voters currently support PM Srettha, a drop from 17.75% in the previous survey. Paetongtarn, daughter of the convicted former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra who is on parole, saw her support decrease to 4.85% from 6%. Conducted quarterly by the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA), the survey gauges public preferences for political leaders. The previous survey results were released at the end of March. Supporters of the Thai premier lauded his decisiveness and determination to resolve issues affecting the populace. Paetongtarn received commendations for her vision, leadership, and understanding of Thailand’s problems. This weekend, PM Srettha is in the northeast to engage with residents and address their concerns, following his visit to the northern provinces earlier this week. He has curtailed his international trips after facing criticism but maintained that some overseas engagements are essential for attracting investment and trade to Thailand. MFP’s chief advisor, Pita Limjaroenrat, remains the leading candidate for prime minister, securing 45.50% of voter support, up from 42.75% in the previous quarter. Pita is admired for his political ideology and thorough knowledge. United Thai National Party leader Pirapan Salirathavibhaga emerged as a significant gainer, with his popularity almost doubling to 6.85% from 3.55%. Voters appreciated Pirapan’s credibility, describing him as clean and honest. Other prime ministerial contenders, including Khunying Sudarat Keyuraphan of the Thai Sang Thai Party and Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Chanvirakul, lagged in popularity. Approximately 20% of voters still do not find any candidate suitable to lead the government, maintaining consistency with the previous survey’s findings. The MFP remains the most popular political party, with support increasing slightly to 49.20%. In contrast, Pheu Thai saw a decline in support, dropping to 16.85% from 22.10%. The poll, conducted from June 14th to 18th, surveyed 2,000 eligible voters. Picture courtesy: Facebook เศรษฐา ทวีสิน - Srettha Thavisin -- 2024-07-01 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

One Killed, Many Injured in Yala Car Bomb Attack Picture courtesy: Siam Rath A devastating car bomb exploded in Yala, Thailand, resulting in one death and multiple injuries. The bomb detonated outside police apartments in Bannang Sata district, in the troubled southern province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331136-one-killed-many-injured-in-yala-car-bomb-attack/

A devastating car bomb exploded in Yala, Thailand, resulting in one death and multiple injuries. The bomb detonated outside police apartments in Bannang Sata district, in the troubled southern province. Initial reports from local law enforcement reveal that insurgents parked a car packed with explosives in front of the police residential building, which is located near both the district office and the main police station. The type of detonation—whether time or remote-controlled—remains unclear at this stage. The explosion's force caused extensive damage not only to the police apartments but also to several nearby vehicles. The impact was immediate, sending plumes of smoke into the air and causing a massive fire. Emergency services, including fire trucks, were quick to arrive, working diligently to extinguish the flames. As the dust began to settle, security forces swiftly cordoned off the surrounding area to prevent further casualties and to secure evidence. The blast has put the community on high alert once again, bringing back memories of past insurgent attacks in the region. The forward command of the Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC) has acted promptly, ordering increased security measures at all government buildings across Yala province. This move aims to prevent any potential follow-up attacks and to restore a semblance of security in the affected district. Yala, along with its neighbouring provinces, has long been a hotspot for insurgent activity, primarily due to ongoing conflicts involving separatist movements. Today's tragic event underlines the continuing volatility and the challenging conditions faced by residents and law enforcement alike. Authorities are calling for calm and vigilance, urging anyone with information about the perpetrators to come forward. The investigation is ongoing, with specialised units focused on identifying the responsible parties and averting future threats. This heinous act underscores the urgent need for sustainable peace and security measures in Thailand's southern provinces. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2024-07-01 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Monday 1 July 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1331135-thailand-live-monday-1-july-2024/

Heavy rainfall in Phuket disrupted flights and caused widespread flooding across the tourist island province. Starting at 7am, Sunday, June 30, persistent rain forced the diversion of around 10 inbound flights to other airports, including Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi, Krabi, Langkawi, Penang, and Surat Thani. The heavy downpour reduced visibility, making it impossible for pilots to see the runway, according to Phuket airport director Monchai Tanod. Heavy flooding after torrential rains in Phuket Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331127-heavy-flooding-after-torrential-rains-in-phuket-30-june-2024/ Picture courtesy: Bangkok Post

Floodgates open as downpours dampen Phuket spirits by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) released an updated report on the recent flooding in Phuket, following heavy rains that caused significant disruption across the popular holiday resort island. Floodwaters inundated roads and homes, while landslides and fallen trees rendered several routes impassable. The TMD highlighted that water levels in Kathu had largely decreased, making most roads passable, including those in Phakdee Village and Sinthao Village, where small cars can now navigate. However, the road behind Loch Palm Golf Course remains blocked due to landslides and fallen trees. Patong and Phuket Town have returned to normal after the initial floodwaters receded. In Kamala, severe flooding on the main road persists, particularly around Soi Ohlala, which is still submerged and impassable. At least ten homes in the region have suffered significant flood damage. In Koh Kaew, water has yet to be fully drained from most roads, causing heavy traffic jams. Several areas in Thepkrasattri, including Villages 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 9, and 11, are still awaiting relief efforts. Dream Village, Baan Phon Housing Estate, Prime Place Village, and I Leaf Town Village 1 and 2 in Srisoonthorn also remain flooded, with small cars unable to access roads. Floodwaters are still present in Sopta Eiad, Soi Palai, and Tak Daet Village in Chalong. A wall collapse in Chaofa Village, Wichit, has further delayed road traffic. Major roads in Cherng Talay have cleared, although Pasak 1 and Pasak 8 are still flooded, closing both roads. Sandbags have been deployed to mitigate the situation, and approximately ten homes have sustained heavy flood damage. The report did not include information for Rawai and Pa Khlok, while the situation in Ratsada, Mai Khao, and Karon remains normal. A relief centre has been established in Kathu to support those affected by the floods, particularly in Loch Palm, Phakdee Village, and Katu-Nagok Road. Kathu Mayor Wannayut Suttikul led a team to clear debris and fallen trees, aiming to reopen roads quickly, and distributed drinking water to residents. The relief centre, located at the Kathu Municipal Office, will be operational for one week. Affected residents can submit requests for assistance with proof of house registration, a copy of their national ID card, and a photo of the damage. For more information, residents can call 06 3874 9717. Full story: The Thaiger 2024-06-29 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai PM Faces Conflict Claims Over Real Estate Policy Change Picture courtesy: Facebook ไทยคำจีนคำ Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin may come under fire for a proposed real estate policy change, amid concerns of a conflict of interest given his previous role as head of a leading property firm. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331061-thai-pm-faces-conflict-claims-over-real-estate-policy-change/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin may come under fire for a proposed real estate policy change, amid concerns of a conflict of interest given his previous role as head of a leading property firm. Srettha’s Cabinet has preliminarily approved a proposal to increase the maximum foreign ownership of condominium units in Thailand from the current 49% to 75%, and extend land leases from 30 years to 99 years. This move aims to invigorate Thailand's sluggish real estate sector, which has been hit by oversupply and a decline in local purchasing power. Prior to his political career, Srettha was the president and CEO of Sansiri Plc, one of Thailand’s top property developers. In an attempt to distance himself from his business ties, he transferred all his 661 million shares in Sansiri to his daughter. Critics, however, are drawing parallels with former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s case. Thaksin was alleged to have taken advantage of his office to benefit his telecom business through third-party shareholding, leading to his eventual conviction and a five-year prison sentence. Prinya Thaewanarumitkul, a law lecturer at Thammasat University, expressed concerns, stating, “Transferring ownership of shares to his daughter is still the Thavisin family's interest, and Srettha could face criticism." Some suggest that instead of drastically changing existing laws, Thailand should consider simplifying the criteria for granting citizenship to qualified foreign investors and skilled professionals, akin to policies in the United States and European countries. This could help address Thailand's aging population and declining birth rates more effectively. The debate over this policy might also end up in Parliament for scrutiny rather than being enacted as an emergency decree, given its potential unpopularity. Public support remains a key challenge; a similar proposal in 2022 by the previous government faced strong opposition and was ultimately withdrawn. As the debate continues, the question of whether these policies will significantly impact foreign investment in Thailand's property market remains. Picture courtesy: Facebook ไทยคำจีนคำ -- 2024-06-29 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai beautician tops senator votes with 79 votes by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post A 45 year old beautician emerged as one of the 200 newly elected senators, achieving the highest vote count with 79 votes. Her victory highlights a notable career in preventive medicine, skin and beauty expertise, and extensive advisory roles. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331058-thai-beautician-tops-senator-votes-with-79-votes/

A 45 year old beautician emerged as one of the 200 newly elected senators, achieving the highest vote count with 79 votes. Her victory highlights a notable career in preventive medicine, skin and beauty expertise, and extensive advisory roles. Chinnachot Saengsang secured 77 votes, Police Lieutenant General Yutthana Thaiphakdi received 76 votes, General Kriangkrai Srirak garnered 74 votes, and Sopon Manomaya obtained 73 votes, all placing high in the election. The beauty expert, Dr Keskamol Pliensamai’s credentials include advising the House Committee on Law, Justice and Human Rights, and leading a working group focused on enhancing the Labour Ministry’s national competitiveness. Her business acumen is evident as she owns four beauty companies: Clinic Intergroup, Keskamol Dental Clinic, Inter Derma Laboratory, and Medical Pharma. Dr Keskamol’s academic background is impressive. She holds a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Business Administration from California University and another PhD in Management and Resource Development from Maejo University. Additionally, she has completed advanced administrative development programmes and earned the Manager Award 2021 for outstanding business management from the Asean Business Association and Civil Society Council of Thailand. Dr Keskamol’s influence extends to television, where she has hosted the Sukkhaphap Dee programme on the 18 JKN channel and made multiple appearances on the Khun Mor Khor Tham TV programme. Her social media presence is substantial, with 287,000 followers on Instagram and 200,000 followers on TikTok, reflecting her broad appeal and influence, reported Bangkok Post. In related news, renowned human rights activist and widow of kidnapped lawyer Somchai Neelapaijit, Angkhana Neelapaijit secured a seat in the Senate as a representative of the civil sector and NGOs. However, she has raised serious concerns about the integrity of the election process, alleging widespread fraud and vote manipulation in favour of certain candidates. In other news, the Election Commission (EC)’s vote counting began at 9.40pm on Wednesday, June 26, and concluded around 5am on June 27, revealing the biggest political surprise of the year. With 2,989 candidates vying for seats, the new Senate will comprise 200 members from 20 professions, replacing the 250 junta-appointed senators whose term expired on May 10. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-29 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Taxi driver alerts police to car fire on Bangkok expressway by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A taxi driver witnessed a dramatic car fire on an expressway and quickly alerted the police, resulting in a successful containment of the blaze. The incident, which occurred at 4.30am today, saw a Toyota Corolla engulfed in flames on the Chalerm Mahanakorn Expressway near the Sukhumvit 62 curve in the Phra Khanong district of Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331054-taxi-driver-alerts-police-to-car-fire-on-bangkok-expressway/

A taxi driver witnessed a dramatic car fire on an expressway and quickly alerted the police, resulting in a successful containment of the blaze. The incident, which occurred at 4.30am today, saw a Toyota Corolla engulfed in flames on the Chalerm Mahanakorn Expressway near the Sukhumvit 62 curve in the Phra Khanong district of Bangkok. Police Captain Paniphak Silachot, an investigator from the Expressway Division 1, received the fire report and coordinated with Chalerm Mahanakorn Rescue officials. A fire engine was dispatched to the scene, where rescue workers spent approximately 15 minutes extinguishing the flames. Fortunately, there were no injuries or fatalities reported, although the vehicle was completely destroyed. Taxi driver 66 year old Suraphon, who reported the fire, shared his account of the event. He explained that while driving a passenger through the left lane, he noticed a significant amount of smoke billowing from the engine compartment of the vehicle. He promptly contacted the authorities to address the situation. “I saw a large cloud of smoke coming from the car’s engine and knew something was seriously wrong. I immediately called for help.” Preliminary investigations by officials suggest that the fire likely resulted from an engine malfunction, as the vehicle did not have a gas installation. Police plan to summon the car’s owner for further questioning to determine the exact cause of the fire, reported KhaoSod. In related news, a woman driving to her mother’s home in Ratchaburi parked her car by the roadside, only to see it engulfed in flames moments later. Witnesses described seeing smoke before the fire erupted, leading to a dramatic scene that required emergency intervention. In other news, a luxury Porsche worth over 10 million baht caught fire in front of a showroom in Bangkok’s Srinakarin area, causing severe damage to the vehicle. Fortunately, the fire did not spread to nearby cars or the building. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-29 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Top ways to fail at getting a work permit in Thailand by Sarishti Arora Photo via: Thaiembassy.com official website Obtaining a work permit in Thailand is a complex process due to its strict regulations and substantial penalties for violations. Potential issues can vary from misplacing or modifying your work permit without prior notification to the designated authorities to not correctly updating personal detail changes. These errors can unintentionally endanger your work status. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331052-top-ways-to-fail-at-getting-a-work-permit-in-thailand/

Obtaining a work permit in Thailand is a complex process due to its strict regulations and substantial penalties for violations. Potential issues can vary from misplacing or modifying your work permit without prior notification to the designated authorities to not correctly updating personal detail changes. These errors can unintentionally endanger your work status. A slight alteration to your personal information can potentially place you in legal difficulty if it is not communicated accurately to the Employment Service. Furthermore, not returning your work permit within seven days after your job resignation can have serious implications. In this blog post, we will discuss the prevalent mistakes that can result in an unsuccessful acquisition of a work permit in Thailand. Offering you the knowledge to evade these common oversights, we aim to ensure your work permit application process is both seamless and prosperous. Common mistakes when applying for a Thai work permit Failure to comply with work permit regulations In pursuit of success with your Thai work permit application, be wary of making missteps. Let us delve into common pitfalls that could lead to failure. Ignoring eligibility criteria Missteps often start with overlooking Thai work permit eligibility requirements. The Thai Ministry of Labour mandates that all permit applicants follow a job description aligned with their work permit. Veering from this guideline could come with severe penalties, even imprisonment or hefty fines of up to 2000 baht. Remain within the bounds of your permitted occupation. If your role changes noticeably, apply for revisions promptly. This step is key in maintaining compliance and ensuring your permit remains valid. Failing to provide accurate documentation Another pitfall lurks in paperwork accuracy. When applying or even when making changes to your Thai work permit details, it’s crucial to present accurate documents like your Letter of Approval from the Ministry of Labour. Your employer in Thailand submits this. Dishonesty or misrepresentation in these documents can result in permit denial and dear fines, reportedly in the range of 5000 baht. Inadequate understanding of types of work permits Lastly, understanding the types of work permits available in Thailand proves significant. This knowledge prevents misunderstandings and ensures you apply for the permit that suits your circumstances best. In total, there are five types, each with different restrictions and requirements. Aim to maintain a clear grasp of these specifics. Inevitably, a well-informed approach to your work permit application process reduces the chances of an unsuccessful attempt. To avoid failure when applying for a work permit in Thailand, arm yourself with the right visa information, and avoid these three pitfalls. Start by understanding your eligibility, ensuring accurate documentation, and finally, acquainting yourself with the relevant permit types. Failure to adhere to these points could result in penalties and failure, thus hindering your pursuit of professional development in Thailand. Key legal pitfalls Photo via: Scott Graham from unsplash.com In the process of attaining your Thai work permit, overlooking legal mandates and mismanaging financial aspects, can easily lead to failure. Delving into the specifics of these categories provides a clearer picture of the potential pitfalls you might face when seeking this crucial document in Thailand. Overlooking legal requirements Legal requirements form a crucial part of any work permit application process. Not complying with these can land you in hot water, attracting fines or even imprisonment. Firstly, safeguard your work permit. If it is lost or damaged, apply for a replacement within 15 days, failure to do so attracts a fine of a few baht. Additionally, you are bound by law to undertake work only according to the profession listed on your work permit. Changing job descriptions significantly or relocating your office calls for immediate revisions to your permit. Also, the law stipulates strict penalties for those who engage in work without a permit or outside the permit’s specifications, with consequences ranging from hefty fines to five years imprisonment. Therefore, it is vital that you adhere strictly to the permit’s conditions, keeping the document readily accessible for official inspections. Health and insurance oversights Photo via: Thaiembassy.com official website Ensuring good health and maintaining accurate insurance records advance your chances of securing a Thailand work permit. Below, you’ll delve deeper into two significant health and insurance-related pitfalls to avoid. Ignoring health requirements and certificates Missteps include ignoring the health requirements set by Thai authorities. To get a work permit in Thailand, it’s crucial to pass certain health checks and acquire the necessary certificates. For instance, you might need a certificate proving you do not have any contagious diseases. Ignoring these health conditions and necessary certifications might result in your work permit application falling into the ‘fail’ category. Inadequate or incorrect health insurance Overlooking insurance details can spell failure. Incorrect information or insufficient coverage could lead to your work permit application being rejected, so double-check all pertinent details before submission. Procedural and bureaucratic challenges Thailand’s complex work permit procedures can pose formidable challenges. These hurdles often stem from errors during the application process and failure to meet strict submission deadlines. Errors in the application process In your pursuit of a Thai work permit, be wary of pitfalls such as inaccurate or incomplete information in your application. For instance, an inconsistency in your job description or a change in office address needs immediate attention. Failing to revise these details might result in penalties as severe as one-month imprisonment or a hefty fine of up to 2000 baht. Pay heed to your personal information in the work permit too. Any alterations must be communicated to the Employment Service to ensure updated records in their system. Procedural missteps, like neglecting to return the work permit within seven days after job resignation, can cost you up to 1000 baht. So, pay close attention to every detail in your application to succeed in your visa journey in Thailand. Not meeting submission deadlines Falling foul of submission deadlines is another surefire way to sabotage your work permit application in Thailand. For example, if you lose or damage your permit, a replacement must be procured within 15 days, a delay could incur a penalty of 500 baht. Also, understand that the processing time for a Thai work permit varies; while it typically takes 7 to 10 business days in Bangkok, it can stretch up to two months in other regions like Phuket. Therefore, time management is crucial, and starting the process well ahead of your planned commencement date is a sensible strategy. Do not let submission deadlines be the tripwire in your work permit voyage in Thailand. Work restrictions and compliance issues Photo via: Firmbee.com from unsplash.com Although Thailand is known for welcoming foreign workers, some barriers and restrictions related to work permits could make it challenging to navigate your professional journey successfully. Understanding these constraints, and being aware of potential pitfalls, entails the difference between thriving professionally or facing heavy penalties. Working in restricted professions Be aware, that certain professions in Thailand are exclusive to Thai nationals. These confines include manual labour, agricultural work, animal husbandry, forestry, fishery, wood carving and motorcycle driving, barring forklift operation. These restrictions aim at securing job opportunities for Thai nationals, ensuring fair access to employment for them. Failure to comply with work permit regulations Failing to comply with work permit conventions invites a slow progression in your career and inflicts harsh penalties. For instance, if one loses a work permit or experiences damage, the individual must apply for a replacement within 15 days otherwise, they risk a penalty. Working beyond the scope mentioned in your work permit attracts penalties too. Therefore, in an event where one’s job description or your office address changes, it’s compulsory to apply for revisions. Non-compliance could result in a month’s imprisonment or a fine of up to 2000 baht. Furthermore, on exiting a job, the work permit’s return must happen within seven days of resignation. Violation of this could result in a fine of up to 1000 baht. For any changes in personal information on your work permit, it is necessary to inform the Employment Service to update their system accordingly. Ignoring this protocol exposes you to the possibility of penalties. Undeniably, respecting all these regulations is the secret to thriving in your foreign assignment in Thailand. Consider these aspects earnestly to not just secure a work permit in Thailand but also create an impressive professional journey. You can also check out how to cancel your Thai visa, Having a clear grasp of Thai visa cancellation is pivotal amid the various complexities associated with it. This particular process might seem convenient, attributable to the introduction of eVisa by the Royal Thai Embassy in Rome. However, one must be well-versed in the factors dictating this procedure, including reasons for cancellation and types of visas involved. by Sarishti Arora Photo via: Thaiembassy.com official website Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-29 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thaksin Outmanoeuvred in Brother-in-Law’s Senate Bid: Analyst Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Thaksin Shinawatra, the influential figure behind the Pheu Thai party, was unexpectedly sidelined in a senatorial election, leaving his brother-in-law and former prime minister Somchai Wongsawat outvoted. This surprising turn of events has raised suspicions of internal betrayal within the Pheu Thai ranks. Ful story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331043-thaksin-outmanoeuvred-in-brother-in-law’s-senate-bid-analyst/

Thailand Raids Signal Transmission Points to Crime Zone in Myanmar video screenshot In a decisive move, Thai authorities have commenced a major crackdown on the transmission of internet signals from Mae Sot to Myawaddy township in Myanmar. Over a hundred officials, police, and soldiers raided six targeted locations, seizing a large cache of communication devices. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331047-thailand-raids-signal-transmission-points-to-crime-zone-in-myanmar/

In a decisive move, Thai authorities have commenced a major crackdown on the transmission of internet signals from Mae Sot to Myawaddy township in Myanmar. Over a hundred officials, police, and soldiers raided six targeted locations, seizing a large cache of communication devices. Mr. Trairat Viriyasirikul, acting secretary-general of the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission of Thailand (NBTC), led the operation, which initially focused on five commercial buildings in downtown Mae Sot. Though outwardly appearing to sell various merchandise, these buildings were identified as hubs for transmitting internet signals across the Moei river to Myawaddy. During the raid, authorities confiscated numerous communication devices and detained the managers of the five buildings for further questioning. However, in a critical strike on the border at Phub Phra district, the suspects received a tip-off about the incoming raid and severed underground internet cables before officials arrived. Shwe Kokko, located directly across the border from the raid site, is infamous for online scamming rackets and casinos operated by Chinese grey capitalists. Despite the setback, police collected substantial evidence to aid further investigations. Earlier enforcement efforts saw police realign seven cell phone towers back towards Thailand and dismantle 366 base stations initially oriented toward Myawaddy. This followed a recent appeal by House Committee on National Security, Border Affairs, National Strategies & Reforms Chair Rangsiman Rome. Rome urged Thai authorities, particularly the Provincial Electricity Authority and the NBTC, to halt the continuous supply of power and internet signals to Shwe Kokko, known for its gambling and criminal activities. The crackdown signifies a robust stance by the Thai authorities to curb illicit activities facilitated by cross-border internet signals and demonstrates a heightened commitment to regional security. Top picture: video screenshot -- 2024-06-29 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai banks do not support arms procurement by Myanmar’s junta – TBA The Thai Bankers Association (TBA), reiterated today that the association and its members conduct business with full accountability to their customers, society and the global community in accordance with human rights principles. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331046-thai-banks-do-not-support-arms-procurement-by-myanmar’s-junta-–-tba/

The Thai Bankers Association (TBA), reiterated today that the association and its members conduct business with full accountability to their customers, society and the global community in accordance with human rights principles. The TBA and the members also adhere to the law and regulations, under the supervision of the Bank of Thailand and the Anti-Money Laundering Office, according to the TBA’s statement. The statement was issued in response to a report by the UN Special Rapporteur on Myanmar, which accuses Thai banks of being key players in the supply of funding for arms for the Myanmar military over the past year. The statement insisted that each member bank has its own compliance unit, specialising in local and international regulations and banking business practices, as well as database of individuals, organisations and countries considered to be “high risk” or black listed, with which banks are forbidden to do business. Full story: Thai PBS 2024-06-29 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Calls for Recount Amid Claims of Senatorial Vote Irregularities Picture courtesy: Thai Rath The Election Commission (EC) faces mounting pressure to recount senatorial votes cast on Wednesday, as allegations of widespread voting irregularities emerge. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331044-calls-for-recount-amid-claims-of-senatorial-vote-irregularities/

The Election Commission (EC) faces mounting pressure to recount senatorial votes cast on Wednesday, as allegations of widespread voting irregularities emerge. Klanarong Chantik, who chairs the acting Senate Committee on charter-mandated Independent Organisations, has formally requested EC Chairman Itthiporn Boonpracong to invoke Section 59 of the Senator Election Act. This section permits the EC to order a recount to address the allegations of discrepancies that spanned district to national ballots. In his urgent letter, Klanarong highlighted various inconsistencies, such as questions over candidate qualifications, accusations of candidates being "hired" by political groups, and reports that some did not even vote for themselves. Furthermore, he pointed to unusual voting patterns and rumours of bribes offered for specific votes. Klanarong, a former member of the National Anti-Corruption Commission, emphasised that such irregularities undermine the Constitution’s mandate for fair and just elections. He warned that public trust in the Senate could erode if these issues are not transparently addressed. Adding weight to the calls for a recount, five unsuccessful candidates have filed a joint petition with the EC. They demand a thorough investigation into what they describe as "suspicious incidents" throughout the electoral process. The group of failed candidates highlighted concerns such as identifiable clothing patterns among some candidate groups, which made them easily recognisable. They also argued that the EC had failed to adequately verify the backgrounds of candidates in relation to the groups they supposedly represented. With these claims out in the open, the next steps by the EC will be crucial in determining the public’s confidence in the electoral process and the legitimacy of the new Senate. For now, eyes are on the EC's response to these urgent and serious concerns. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-06-29 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thaksin Outmanoeuvred in Brother-in-Law’s Senate Bid: Analyst Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Thaksin Shinawatra, the influential figure behind the Pheu Thai party, was unexpectedly sidelined in a senatorial election, leaving his brother-in-law and former prime minister Somchai Wongsawat outvoted. This surprising turn of events has raised suspicions of internal betrayal within the Pheu Thai ranks. Ful story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331043-thaksin-outmanoeuvred-in-brother-in-law’s-senate-bid-analyst/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Thaksin Shinawatra, the influential figure behind the Pheu Thai party, was unexpectedly sidelined in a senatorial election, leaving his brother-in-law and former prime minister Somchai Wongsawat outvoted. This surprising turn of events has raised suspicions of internal betrayal within the Pheu Thai ranks. According to Thanaporn Sriyakul of Mahanakorn University of Technology, several senatorial candidates linked to Pheu Thai voted against Somchai in the final stages of the election. These candidates were expected to support Somchai but opted for others at the last moment in a move that appears to be a calculated double-cross. Thaksin had reportedly relied on a network of supposedly loyal wheeler-dealers to secure Somchai’s position in the Senate. The plan was for Somchai to be elected and potentially named Senate speaker. However, this strategy fell apart in the final stretch of the election, which involved complex rounds of voting among candidates rather than direct constituent votes. The election’s final tier consisted of a first round with same-category votes followed by a cross-category voting round. It was in this latter stage that Somchai faced defeat. “It’s hard to imagine a former prime minister close to Thaksin losing without some behind-the-scenes betrayal,” Thanaporn stated, noting that many Pheu Thai-associated candidates seemed to have abandoned their expected alignment. Somchai, who had navigated the district and provincial tiers of the triple-tiered election process with ease, found himself unexpectedly outvoted in the national stage. This loss revealed fractures within the Pheu Thai network and highlighted the influence of covert actors. Thanaporn also pointed out that many of the 200 new senators are believed to be affiliated with the Bhumjaithai Party, led by Newin Chidchob. This clandestine influence from Bhumjaithai has further complicated the political landscape, suggesting that Thaksin’s control over the Pheu Thai-led coalition government may be waning. The academic warned that this outcome could pose significant challenges for Thaksin’s behind-the-scenes manoeuvring, especially in navigating interactions with “independent” agencies like the Constitutional Court and Election Commission, whose members will be appointed by the new senators. As Bhumjaithai secures a dominant position in the Senate, Thaksin may face increasing difficulties in exerting his influence, potentially opening doors for ultra-conservative factions to leverage power in Thailand’s political arena. -- 2024-06-29 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe