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Picture courtesy: Naewna In a notable diplomatic gesture, German Ambassador to Thailand, Dr. Ernst Reichel, shared a photograph on social media platform X, capturing a meeting with Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. The post was accompanied by a message stating, "I felt honoured today to meet former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra for a friendly and sincere conversation." The meeting between Dr. Reichel and Thaksin comes in the backdrop of growing diplomatic ties between Germany and Thailand. Earlier this year, during a visit to Germany on March 13-14 by Thailand's then Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, fruitful discussions were held with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. The talks led to an agreement to elevate bilateral relations to a strategic partnership, anticipated to extend cooperation both regionally with ASEAN and within the Indo-Pacific sphere. Key areas of collaboration discussed included enhancing cooperation in clean energy and green transition, bolstering the electric vehicle and battery industries, promoting sustainable agriculture, and advancing infrastructure development. The scope of partnership also involves technology and knowledge transfer, likely to improve exchanges of high-level visits between the two nations. Additional conversations during the meeting focused on Thailand's ambitious "Landbridge" project, ongoing negotiations for a Thai-EU free trade agreement, and the possibility of Schengen visa exemptions for Thai passport holders. Furthermore, both sides pledged to tackle regional and global challenges, such as climate change and global security, highlighting their commitment to mutual development and cooperation efforts, reported Thai Newsroom. As part of these dialogues, Thailand affirmed its dedication to supporting German investment in the automotive sector, particularly in manufacturing internal combustion engine and hybrid vehicles, underscoring a shared vision for robust economic collaboration. -- 2024-10-09

In a nationwide safety sweep, the Department of Land Transport (DLT) has ordered all vehicles equipped with compressed natural gas (CNG) or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) tanks to undergo immediate inspection. CNG and LPG vehicles face crackdown after tragic school bus fire Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340254-cng-and-lpg-vehicles-face-crackdown-after-tragic-school-bus-fire/ Photo courtesy of The Nation

Warning issued for 16 areas in Bangkok at risk of flooding by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ กรุงเทพมหานคร Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) issued a warning to people living in 16 areas across seven districts of Bangkok that are at risk of flooding, advising them to move their valuables and belongings to higher ground. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340218-warning-issued-for-16-areas-in-bangkok-at-risk-of-flooding/

Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) issued a warning to people living in 16 areas across seven districts of Bangkok that are at risk of flooding, advising them to move their valuables and belongings to higher ground. Although the flooding in Thailand this year is not as severe as the great floods of 2011 but the floodwater levels in many provinces are the highest in the past 10 years. The flooding began in the northern and northeastern parts of Thailand, and the serious flooding in Chiang Mai has only recently improved. Locals and relevant local government officials are now cleaning the affected areas, particularly the city centre and the economic zone of the province. The damage caused by the flood in Chiang Mai is estimated to reach 2 billion baht. The floodwaters are expected to gradually flow from the northern to the central regions of Thailand through several rivers, especially the Chao Phraya River. Several Thai news agencies reported yesterday, October 8, that some riverside communities in Nonthaburi province, near Bangkok, were already affected, causing concern among Bangkok residents. The BMA is closely monitoring the flood situation and the water level in the Chao Phraya River to alert people in at-risk areas to prepare for potential flooding. Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt and Deputy Governor Wissanu Subsomphon attended a survey yesterday to inspect the water level in the Chao Phraya River. According to the governor, Bangkok has 88 kilometres of flood protection walls, ranging from 2.8 to 3.5 metres in height, along the river and in some main canals connected to the river. Chadchart assured the safety of communities within the protected areas but urged those outside to remain cautious. The 16 areas in seven districts of Bangkok, which lie outside the flood protection walls include: Dusit district Soi Sri Kham (the end of Soi Samsen 19) Ratchaphathim Ruamjai community near Krung Thonburi Bridge The end of Soi Mittakham Devaraj Kunchon comunity Phranakhon district Tha Wang community Tha Tian community Samphantawong district Communities near Pathum Kongka Temple Talad Noi community Bang Khor Laem district Matanusorn community Communities behind Charoenkrung Pracharak Hospital Communities near Inbanjong Temple Communities near Bang Khlo Temple Yannawa district Rong Si community on Rama 3 Road Bangkok Noi district Dusit and Nimit Mai communities Khlong San district Charoen Nakhon Soi 29/2 Ban Chan Nak community Chadchart revealed in an interview with the news agencies that they are being vigilant. “We are monitoring and preparing at all times, and the monitoring will become more intense on October 20 when the sea level is expected to rise. For areas outside the flood protection walls, BMA officials are ready to assist affected residents.” by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ กรุงเทพมหานคร Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-09

Rain check! Bangkok braces for a drenching deluge by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Justin Aikin, Unsplash The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued a stark warning: heavy rain and cooler temperatures are on the horizon for tomorrow. A staggering 33 provinces will be affected by the weather with Bangkok expected to see a soggy 60% of its area drenched. Get ready for potential flooding and flash floods as the storm rolls in. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340214-rain-check-bangkok-braces-for-a-drenching-deluge/

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued a stark warning: heavy rain and cooler temperatures are on the horizon for tomorrow. A staggering 33 provinces will be affected by the weather with Bangkok expected to see a soggy 60% of its area drenched. Get ready for potential flooding and flash floods as the storm rolls in. In their latest forecast, the TMD reveals that a weakening high-pressure system is currently hovering over northern Thailand. While it may be losing strength, the upper northern and northeastern regions will still feel the chill in the morning. Meanwhile, an easterly wind is sweeping in moisture from the South China Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, priming the lower northeastern, central, and eastern regions—including Bangkok—for a drenching. This situation will lead to increased rainfall in these areas, with some places experiencing heavy rainfall, particularly in the lower central region, including Bangkok and surrounding provinces, and the eastern region. Residents in the upper part of Thailand are advised to take care of their health due to rapidly changing weather conditions. TMD also issued a warning for seven provinces from October 13 to October 24 to be on the lookout for high sea levels. The monsoon will affect 70% of the eastern and southern regions, with warnings of flash floods and forest runoffs. The monsoon trough passing through the central part of the southern region will cause heavy rainfall in some areas. Residents in these regions should be cautious of heavy rain and accumulated rainfall, which may lead to sudden flooding and forest runoff, especially in foothill areas near waterways and low-lying areas. Additionally, the sea waves in the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand are expected to be weak, with waves less than 1 metre high, and over 1 to 2 metres high in thunderstorm areas. Mariners are advised to avoid sailing in areas with thunderstorms. Heavy rain The northern region will experience cool weather in the morning in the upper part, with thunderstorms covering 10% of the area, mainly in Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Lamphun, Tak, and Kamphaeng Phet provinces. The minimum temperature will range from 21 to 26 degrees Celsius, and the maximum temperature will range from 32 to 35 degrees Celsius. Easterly winds will blow at a speed of 10 to 15 kilometres per hour. The northeastern region will also be cool in the morning in the upper part, with thunderstorms covering 20% of the area, mainly in Chaiyaphum, Khon Kaen, Maha Sarakham, Nakhon Ratchasima, Buriram, Surin, Sisaket, and Ubon Ratchathani provinces. The minimum temperature will range from 21 to 25 degrees Celsius, and the maximum temperature will range from 32 to 34 degrees Celsius. Northeasterly winds will blow at a speed of 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. The central region will have thunderstorms covering 40% of the area, with some places experiencing heavy rainfall, mainly in Ratchaburi, Nakhon Pathom, Samut Songkhram, and Samut Sakhon provinces. The minimum temperature will range from 22 to 25 degrees Celsius, and the maximum temperature will range from 32 to 35 degrees Celsius. Easterly winds will blow at a speed of 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. The eastern region will have thunderstorms covering 60% of the area, with some places experiencing heavy rainfall, mainly in Chon Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat provinces. The minimum temperature will range from 23 to 25 degrees Celsius, and the maximum temperature will range from 31 to 34 degrees Celsius. Easterly winds will blow at a speed of 10 to 30 kilometres per hour. The sea waves will be less than 1 metre high and over 1 to 2 metres high in thunderstorm areas. The southern region (east coast) will have thunderstorms covering 70% of the area, with some places experiencing heavy rainfall, mainly in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, and Songkhla provinces. The minimum temperature will range from 23 to 25 degrees Celsius, and the maximum temperature will range from 31 to 34 degrees Celsius. Variable winds will blow at a speed of 10 to 30 kilometres per hour. The sea waves will be less than 1 metre high and over 1 to 2 metres high in thunderstorm areas. The southern region (west coast) will have thunderstorms covering 70% of the area, with some places experiencing heavy rainfall, mainly in Phang Nga, Phuket, Krabi, Trang, and Satun provinces. The minimum temperature will range from 23 to 25 degrees Celsius, and the maximum temperature will range from 31 to 34 degrees Celsius. Variable winds will blow at a speed of 10 to 30 kilometres per hour. The sea waves will be less than 1 metre high, and over 1 to 2 metres high in thunderstorm areas, reported KhaoSod. Bangkok and its vicinity will have thunderstorms covering 60% of the area, with some places experiencing heavy rainfall. The minimum temperature will range from 24 to 26 degrees Celsius, and the maximum temperature will range from 33 to 35 degrees Celsius. Easterly winds will blow at a speed of 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Justin Aikin, Unsplash Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-09

Thailand prioritizes safety and facilitates travel during long holiday Oct 12-14 By Pattaya Mail With a high volume of travelers expected to return to their hometowns over the three-day period, the company is preparing for an estimated 80,000 to 90,000 passengers per day. BANGKOK, Thailand – The Transport Company Limited has announced measures to prioritize safety and facilitate travel during the upcoming Nawamindra Maharaj Day holiday, which will run from October 12 to 14. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340212-thailand-prioritizes-safety-and-facilitates-travel-during-long-holiday-oct-12-14/

With a high volume of travelers expected to return to their hometowns over the three-day period, the company is preparing for an estimated 80,000 to 90,000 passengers per day. BANGKOK, Thailand – The Transport Company Limited has announced measures to prioritize safety and facilitate travel during the upcoming Nawamindra Maharaj Day holiday, which will run from October 12 to 14. With a high volume of travelers expected to return to their hometowns over the three-day period, the company is preparing for an estimated 80,000 to 90,000 passengers per day. This will require around 6,000 to 7,000 bus trips daily, including services provided by the company itself, partner buses, and minivans. Under a directive from Deputy Transport Minister Surapong Piyachote, the company has instructed its divisions to deploy staff for inspections at key bus terminals. Safety checks will be conducted at the Bangkok Bus Terminal, also known as Mo Chit 2, and the Southern Bus Terminal on October 7, 10, and 11 to ensure that all vehicles are fully equipped for safe operation. By Pattaya Mail Full story: Pattaya Mail -- 2024-10-09

Chinese Luxury Housing Project Probed for Money Laundering Picture courtesy: TNA The Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) has intervened in a major luxury housing project in Nonthaburi, funded predominantly by Chinese capital, due to money laundering suspicions. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340210-chinese-luxury-housing-project-probed-for-money-laundering/

The Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) has intervened in a major luxury housing project in Nonthaburi, funded predominantly by Chinese capital, due to money laundering suspicions. Situated along the Chao Phraya River, this grand development spans 12 acres and is valued at around 1.5 billion baht. It comprises about 60 opulent five-storey villas, each complete with a basement and swimming pool, with prices ranging from 200 to 700 million baht per unit. The project is primarily owned by Chinese investors, with two Thai businessmen involved as directors. Construction began in February 2024 and is scheduled for completion a year later. Interestingly, the workforce mainly consists of Chinese labourers working on rotating tourist visas, which has attracted scrutiny from local authorities, including immigration officials. Despite having the required permits from the Nonthaburi Municipality, AMLO has issued a seizure order, suspecting illicit financial activities. This order, while not halting construction, restricts any assets from being moved from the site. The project's ongoing progression, notwithstanding the legal constraints, has only intensified the investigation. Picture courtesy: TNA Moreover, there are questions regarding the legality of the workforce, and authorities are assessing whether the necessary work permits are in place for the Chinese workers employed there. This aspect forms an integral part of the broader investigation into the operation. Project owners must now provide detailed explanations to AMLO, which is actively gathering evidence. Should these investigations confirm illicit activities, AMLO plans to initiate legal action within 90 days. This could culminate in a comprehensive asset seizure order, reinforcing Thailand's commitment to tackling money laundering and ensuring regulatory compliance in property developments, reported TNA-MCOT. Picture courtesy: TNA TOP Picture courtesy: TNA -- 2024-10-09

Pakistani Man Arrested in Krabi for Overstaying Visa by 691 days Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Krabi Immigration Police, led by Major General Songprod Sirisukha, Major General Kantawat Phongsathapadee, and Major General Sorat Eaml-ao, coordinated a raid across Krabi Province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340207-pakistani-man-arrested-in-krabi-for-overstaying-visa by-691-days/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Krabi Immigration Police, led by Major General Songprod Sirisukha, Major General Kantawat Phongsathapadee, and Major General Sorat Eaml-ao, coordinated a raid across Krabi Province. This operation, conducted alongside local police, tourist police, and highway police, aimed to check workplaces for undocumented foreign workers and to prevent activities that might disrupt local employment. During the inspection of various premises, officers encountered a man suspected of being a foreign national in Moo 6, Sai Thai Subdistrict, Krabi. He was selling Arabic-script signs. Upon requesting his documents, the man identified himself as Mr. Ahmad, a 48-year-old Pakistani national who had entered Thailand on September 16, 2022, with a 60-day tourist visa. Although his visa had expired on November 13, 2022, he continued to reside and work in Thailand without proper authorization, overstaying by 691 days. Mr. Ahmad admitted to staying and working without a valid visa or work permit. He was charged with overstaying and working illegally and was handed over to the Krabi Provincial Police Station for further legal action. From September 1 to October 8, 2024, Krabi Immigration Police reported 71 arrests, including 65 immigration violations, one unauthorized employment, and five other legal offenses. Major General Songprod noted that the operation aligns with national immigration policies, emphasizing the importance of upholding public safety and order for locals and tourists alike. Krabi, being a popular tourist destination, has strengthened security measures to ensure the well-being of residents and visitors. Authorities urge the public to report any suspicious activities to Krabi Immigration Police at 075 611097. -- 2024-10-09

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Wednesday 9 October 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340205-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-wednesday-9-october-2024/

NEWS - 09-October.mp4 The government will provide 10,000 baht per household affected by flooding nationwide to help cover cleanup costs, this is in addition to 9,000 baht compensation announced last week. A survey will be carried out to identify the households most in need in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. flooding continues in 19 provinces mainly in the North, Northeast, and Central regions and some in the South, with an estimated 66,000 households affected. The operators of more than 13, thousand gas-fuelled passenger buses have been told to suspend services pending inspections, the directive came following last week’s tragic school bus fire. The department of transport aims to inspect all CNG and LPG powered busses by the end of November, the department will also oversee inspection of more than 15, 600 passenger boats. A new law now allows customers to open packages of products ordered online before making payment. This cash-on-delivery law is aimed at protecting both customers and logistics companies. It ensures that customers have the right to refuse payment if the items they receive are defective, damaged, or do not match their order. Across the region Asian leaders including Prime Minister paetongtarn are in Vientiane Laos for the Asean summit which will also be attended by U.S Secretary of State Antony Blinken, he expects to discuss human rights in Myanmar, China's behavior in the South China Sea and Ukraine. Myanmar has sent a representative to the summit for the first time in three years. Papua New Guinea authorities and the International Monetary Fund team have reached a staff-level agreement for access of about $265 million to improve resilience to climate change in that country. Todays Weather Chiang Mai and the north: Sunny partly cloudy 32C degrees celsius Bangkok: Thundershowers 32C Pattaya: thundery showers 30C Phuket and the south: Cloudy showers 30C Hua Hin: cloudy with thundery showers and rain, clearing up late this afternoon. 31C Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Wunderground.com The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Windy.com. -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-10-09 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5

New Law Allows Buyers to Inspect Online Orders Before Payment Reference photo: Doc. Antara In a significant move to bolster consumer protection, a new law in Thailand now permits online shoppers to examine their packages before making payment. This regulation came into force on October 3, following its publication in the Royal Gazette on July 5, as confirmed by Minister of the Prime Minister's Office, Jiraporn Sindhuprai. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340203-new-law-allows-buyers-to-inspect-online-orders-before-payment/

In a significant move to bolster consumer protection, a new law in Thailand now permits online shoppers to examine their packages before making payment. This regulation came into force on October 3, following its publication in the Royal Gazette on July 5, as confirmed by Minister of the Prime Minister's Office, Jiraporn Sindhuprai. Dubbed the "Contract Committee Notification on CoD Service law," this legislation impacts cash-on-delivery (CoD) transactions, providing a safety net for both consumers and logistics companies amidst the surge in online shopping. The law entitles buyers to reject payment for goods that are defective, damaged, or do not match their orders upon arrival. Under this new system, recipients are required to return the entire batch of goods, even if only a portion is incorrect, within five days. Should the goods be in satisfactory condition and align with the order, the transaction proceeds as usual. However, if the complaint is validated, customers must be refunded within 15 days. Delivery personnel play a crucial role in this process, as they are obligated to furnish a receipt immediately following payment. This receipt includes vital information such as the buyer’s details, order specifics, tracking number, and both the driver's and an authorised signature. Additionally, the law mandates the recording of a video or photo of the package being opened, ensuring transparency and accountability. Furthermore, logistics companies must promptly collect returned goods from customers within five days without imposing a collection fee. They are tasked with reviewing complaints and thoroughly examining returned items to ascertain their validity. This "Dee-Delivery" initiative not only safeguards consumers from receiving unsatisfactory products but also fortifies fair business practices within the logistics sector. By implementing these measures, the Thai government aims to eliminate fraudulent schemes where consumers receive items that don't reflect the value or specifications of their original purchase, reported Bangkok Post. Reference photo: Doc. Antara -- 2024-10-09

Buses and Dining Cruises Under Scrutiny for Safety Checks FILE - Thailand's Prime Minister-designate Paetongtarn Shinawatra, with members of Pheu Thai party talks to reporters during a press conference at Pheu Thai party headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand, Friday, Aug. 16, 2024. (AP Photo/Wason Wanichakorn) Following a tragic school bus fire in Thailand, which claimed the lives of 20 students and three teachers, comprehensive safety inspections have been mandated for all gas-fuelled passenger buses. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340193-buses-and-dining-cruises-under-scrutiny-for-safety-checks/

South African teacher vanishes in Cambodia after date with British man Photo courtesy of Khmer Times The search is on for a young South African teacher who vanished without a trace in Cambodia’s capital Phnom Penh after a date with a British man known only as Jack. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340202-south-african-teacher-vanishes-in-cambodia-after-date-with-british-man/

Photo courtesy of Khmer Times The search is on for a young South African teacher who vanished without a trace in Cambodia’s capital Phnom Penh after a date with a British man known only as Jack. The South African teacher, 26 year old Angelique Tong, was last seen on September 29 after a dinner at Harry’s Bistro, a popular riverside spot in the Cambodian capital. Tong, who had been living in Phnom Penh and working as a teacher at Smart Kids PP, met Jack, a British man, two weeks before her disappearance. Since that evening, she hasn’t been heard from, and her phone remains off. Tong, who was scheduled to return to work yesterday, October 7, didn’t show up, leaving her colleagues and friends deeply concerned. A formal appeal for information has been issued as her disappearance enters its second week. Described as having blonde hair, hazel eyes, and standing 1.58 metres tall, Angelique weighs around 50 kilogrammes and has a distinctive Khmer script tattoo on her right forearm. Photo courtesy of Tripadvisor Local police and Crest Hawk Investigations, who have taken on the case, are urging anyone with information to come forward. “We’re working tirelessly to find Angelique and hope someone may have seen something,” said a spokesperson from the investigation team. Tong’s last known companion, Jack, remains a mystery. Police are appealing for any information about him and his possible involvement in her disappearance, reported Khmer Times. Anyone with details regarding Angelique’s whereabouts can contact Crest Hawk Investigations at +855(0)9646 50033 or via email at [email protected]. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-09

FILE - Thailand's Prime Minister-designate Paetongtarn Shinawatra, with members of Pheu Thai party talks to reporters during a press conference at Pheu Thai party headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand, Friday, Aug. 16, 2024. (AP Photo/Wason Wanichakorn) Following a tragic school bus fire in Thailand, which claimed the lives of 20 students and three teachers, comprehensive safety inspections have been mandated for all gas-fuelled passenger buses. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has ordered approximately 13,426 of these buses, which run on compressed natural gas (CNG) or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), to halt operations until they pass inspections by the Department of Land Transport (DLT). These safety checks must be completed by 30th November. This decisive action comes after safety breaches were uncovered in the bus involved in the catastrophic fire in Pathum Thani. In response, the Ministry of Education is collaborating with the DLT to advise schools against using gas-powered vehicles for field trips and transports until the inspection process concludes. In addition to buses, dining cruises and passenger boats are also being subjected to rigorous safety evaluations across the nation. The Ministry of Transport, under Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri's directive, has initiated inspections for 15,685 passenger boats, focusing on those using cooking gas, which include 108 dining cruises. Inspectors will be assessing components such as structural stability, fuel and electrical systems, fire safety equipment, licensing compliance, and safety gear. Boat operators must adhere to weather updates and comply with sailing regulations to ensure passenger safety. In Bangkok and its vicinity, about 100 public transport boats operate on diesel and biodiesel, with another 35 running on electric power. The Chao Phraya River hosts 52 dining cruises, which will now face heightened safety measures, including separating cooking and passenger areas, maintaining an adequate number of extinguishers in cooking zones, and restricting the number of gas cylinders onboard. These proactive measures emphasize the commitment to enhance safety standards in the wake of recent accidents, aiming to prevent further tragedies on both land and water, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-10-09

Americans in Thailand Walk to Exercise the Right to Vote Overseas By Adam Judd Non-Partisan Gathering Shows Support for the Upcoming US Election Americans living in Thailand will come together on Thursday, October 10 from 12 noon to 1 pm to show their support for US electoral democracy by exercising their right to vote in front of the US Embassy in downtown Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340200-americans-in-thailand-walk-to-exercise-the-right-to-vote-overseas/

Non-Partisan Gathering Shows Support for the Upcoming US Election Americans living in Thailand will come together on Thursday, October 10 from 12 noon to 1 pm to show their support for US electoral democracy by exercising their right to vote in front of the US Embassy in downtown Bangkok. The 2024 Election Ballot Walk will see a large, non-partisan group of Americans walk down down Witthayu (Wireless Road) from the Au Bon Pain (in front of GPF Tower) at midday with their ballots, and deposit their ballots in the official US Citizen Services drop box in front of the Embassy. Ballots returned via that box are sent back to the US by the Embassy, and mailed to the states to be counted in the November 5, 2024 national election. “This walk is a symbol of American democracy in action, which allows Americans wherever they are in the world to vote in our national election,” said Harold Hibbert, Vice-Chair at Democrats Abroad Thailand. “Overseas Americans being able to use their voice and exercising their right to vote is part of what makes our system special, and we strongly support the US Embassy’s role in facilitating the vote by sending our ballots back to the US.” By Adam Judd Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS -- 2024-10-09

Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV An intense scene unfolded in Udon Thani, Thailand, when a dramatic argument erupted at a motorcycle repair shop over a missing sum of 3,000 baht. The dispute involved a local man, Mr. Thanabodin, and Ms. Aziza, a 23-year-old Indian national, sparking curiosity and concern among local residents. Police were called to the scene when Mr. Thanabodin accused Ms. Aziza of stealing the money from his yellow cloth bag, which he had placed on a swing while assisting with repair work. Aziza, who had visited the shop to fix her bicycle tyre, firmly denied any wrongdoing. The argument intensified, with Thanabodin alleging that Aziza had been the only person near his belongings when the money went missing. To decisively prove her innocence, Ms. Aziza took an unprecedented step: she began to strip in front of police officers and bystanders to demonstrate she had nothing to hide. As she removed her clothes, police and witnesses urged her to stop, suggesting a more discreet search. Eventually, the search moved to the privacy of the shop's bathroom. Thanabodin explained he noticed the money missing when he checked the bag while the repairs were ongoing. "When I opened the bag, I found that three 1,000 baht notes were missing, only some hundred and twenty baht notes were left. I thought that this woman had definitely stolen my money and when I asked her she yelled that she didn’t take it, so I called the police," he recounted, reported THai Newsroom. The unusual incident highlights the complexities and cultural nuances in resolving disputes, especially in foreign lands. With no money found on Aziza, the case remained unsolved at the time of reporting, leaving lingering questions about the missing cash. Authorities have continued to investigate, seeking clarity amidst the finger-pointing and allegations. -- 2024-10-09

Indian Woman Strips in Defence Against Theft Claim Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV An intense scene unfolded in Udon Thani, Thailand, when a dramatic argument erupted at a motorcycle repair shop over a missing sum of 3,000 baht. The dispute involved a local man, Mr. Thanabodin, and Ms. Aziza, a 23-year-old Indian national, sparking curiosity and concern among local residents. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340191-indian-woman-strips-in-defence-against-theft-claim/

A year has passed since the Hamas attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, and the whereabouts of six Thai hostages taken during the incident remain a mystery. Despite ongoing efforts, there has been no news from Hamas regarding these individuals, according to Orna Sagiv, Israel's ambassador to Thailand. Hamas has refused any interaction with international bodies, like the Red Cross, preventing visits to hostages, heightening concerns about their status. "Unfortunately, we don’t know," stated Sagiv at a commemoration ceremony in Bangkok. Nevertheless, she assured that Israel is dedicated to retrieving the hostages, including the six Thais, and is urging global governments to join in these efforts. Initially, 31 Thais were taken hostage; 23 have since been released, but two have been confirmed dead. The situation remains uncertain for the remaining six. Meanwhile, Israel has taken measures to ensure the safety of approximately 35,000 Thai workers still within its borders. The government has placed these workers in designated green zones, assuring that they are not in high-risk areas. Sagiv highlighted the Israeli government's proactive steps to protect Thai nationals, including disseminating safety information in Thai and constructing shelters in vulnerable zones. She emphasized the importance of following Israeli safety protocols, such as seeking shelter immediately when sirens blare, to minimise risks. Despite the volatile security environment, these measures have kept most Thai workers safe. The ambassador noted the comparatively low casualty rate amid recent missile attacks, attributing it to strict adherence to safety guidelines. In related developments, information has surfaced about potential threats from Hezbollah, suggesting plans that could replicate last year's tragic events. However, Israel remains vigilant, focusing on preventing such incidents and securing its population, including foreign workers. Sagiv confirmed that efforts are in place to ensure that Thai workers are distant from potential conflict zones in northern Israel, reported Bangkok Post. FILE PHOTO courtesy: MGR Online -- 2024-10-09