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Danish man stabs himself with medical knife in Bangkok hospital by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A Danish man today wreaked havoc in a central Bangkok hospital, leaving police scrambling to contain the chaos. The bizarre incident unfolded at 4.45am, today, October 7, at Chulalongkorn Hospital in Pathumwan, Bangkok, when a 40 year old foreigner erupted into a frenzy in the emergency room. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340048-danish-man-stabs-himself-with-medical-knife-in-bangkok-hospital/

Newin and Thaksin Discuss Political Strategy in Private Meeting Picture courtesy: Sanook De facto Bhumjaithai boss Newin Chidchob engaged in private talks with de facto Pheu Thai leader Thaksin Shinawatra at the latter’s residence, according to sources familiar with the meeting. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340095-newin-and-thaksin-discuss-political-strategy-in-private-meeting/

De facto Bhumjaithai boss Newin Chidchob engaged in private talks with de facto Pheu Thai leader Thaksin Shinawatra at the latter’s residence, according to sources familiar with the meeting. The gathering, held yesterday at Thaksin’s Chan Song Lah house in Thonburi, Bangkok, was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul, marking a significant political interaction between influential figures of Thailand's ruling coalition. Anutin, when questioned by reporters today at Government House, refrained from sharing details about the discussion. Speculation is rife that the meeting centred around upcoming political manoeuvres, possibly concerning Thaksin's looming legal challenges. These challenges are said to be linked to allegations of his active, albeit unofficial, involvement in Pheu Thai’s leadership, a move that could potentially lead to legal repercussions for him and the party. Sources indicate that this meeting could have touched on strategies to navigate potential accusations that Thaksin unlawfully influences the party from behind the scenes, which could also jeopardise the party’s legal standing. Palang Pracharath Secretary-General Paiboon Nititawan has hinted at unveiling fresh actions against Thaksin come Thursday, suggesting heightened political tension on the horizon. This dialogue follows Thaksin's controversial involvement in guiding the Pheu Thai party, especially after a pivotal meeting at his home last August. This meeting was in response to the Constitutional Court’s decision to impeach former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, underscoring Thaksin's significant, albeit contentious, role in the country’s political landscape. Thaksin has been the subject of scrutiny since he was reportedly given preferential treatment in avoiding lengthy jail time, following his return from 17 years of self-imposed exile. This latest meeting with Newin only intensifies speculation about Thailand's political future and the manoeuvres of its most influential political figures. Picture courtesy: Sanook -- 2024-10-08

Getting a Thai visa in Southeast Asia is about to become a high-tech affair. Starting next week, several Thai consulates across the region will be switching entirely to online e-visa applications, leaving traditional walk-ins a thing of the past. Thai visa shake-up: SE Asia consulates switch to e-visa only Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340074-thai-visa-shake-up-southeast-asia-consulates-switch-to-e-visa-only/

Danish man stabs himself with medical knife in Bangkok hospital by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A Danish man today wreaked havoc in a central Bangkok hospital, leaving police scrambling to contain the chaos. The bizarre incident unfolded at 4.45am, today, October 7, at Chulalongkorn Hospital in Pathumwan, Bangkok, when a 40 year old foreigner erupted into a frenzy in the emergency room. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340048-danish-man-stabs-himself-with-medical-knife-in-bangkok-hospital/

A Danish man today wreaked havoc in a central Bangkok hospital, leaving police scrambling to contain the chaos. The bizarre incident unfolded at 4.45am, today, October 7, at Chulalongkorn Hospital in Pathumwan, Bangkok, when a 40 year old foreigner erupted into a frenzy in the emergency room. The man, clearly agitated, seized a medical knife and dashed towards Gate A2, making his way to the OPR building’s food zone. In a shocking turn, he slashed his arms and neck, causing severe injuries and significant blood loss. Quick-thinking police officers, stationed at Gate A1, promptly subdued him, allowing medical staff to deliver critical emergency care. This wasn’t the first time the troubled Dane had caused a stir. The night before, at 7.03pm, Thung Maha Mek Police Station officers reported a foreigner with a severe bleeding wound in Soi Suan Phlu 8, Sathorn. The man, they discovered, had injured his right thigh after clambering over and tumbling from a fence in a nearby village. Witnesses watched as he wandered from Soi Suan Phlu 8 to Soi Suan Phlu 6, refusing all attempts of assistance. Despite the arrival of an emergency vehicle, the determined Dane declined aid, choosing instead to head to Suan Phlu Market. A second emergency attempt to transport him to the hospital was again rebuffed. At around 10pm, a quick-thinking German passerby managed to engage the distressed man in conversation, ultimately persuading him to hop into a taxi bound for the hospital, KhaoSod. But the drama didn’t end there. By 12.19 am, police received frantic reports of cries for help emanating from the rear of the market, just opposite Soi Suan Phlu 8. There, officers found the same Danish national perilously climbing on a nearby rooftop. With patience and care, officers coaxed him down, administered initial first aid, and finally whisked him off to the hospital. by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-07

UPDATE: Bangkok cops deliver KO to former Thai boxer after hostage incident by Petch Petpailin Photo via ThaiRath Police today arrested a Thai former boxer who escaped after a theft and held two innocent people hostage in Bangkok last Friday, October 3, in the Isaan province of Nakhon Ratchasima province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339799-former-boxer-holds-two-doctors-hostage-before-escaping/?do=findComment&comment=19287334

UPDATE: Bangkok cops deliver KO to former Thai boxer after hostage incident by Petch Petpailin Photo via ThaiRath Police today arrested a Thai former boxer who escaped after a theft and held two innocent people hostage in Bangkok last Friday, October 3, in the Isaan province of Nakhon Ratchasima province. Officers from Tao Poon Police Station today, October 7, raided the home of 39 year old Santi Jehali, a former Thai boxer, last Friday to arrest him for theft. However, Santi would not surrender and instead fired shots at officers, creating a path for his escape. Santi fled to a house in Soi Inthamara 29, where he took two residents hostage. Although the police successfully rescued the hostages, they were unable to apprehend the suspect. Santi reportedly escaped from the victims’ home through an air vent in the ceiling. His wife, 42 year old Potjanee Boonlong, caused further disruption when she attempted suicide in an abandoned building near the scene. Potjanee then tricked police into driving her away, only to jump out of the vehicle in the Wang Noi district of Ayutthaya province. Potjanee could not flee any further and was arrested by the roadside in Ayutthaya. Police suspect that she caused the chaos to distract them and give her husband a chance to escape. However, Potjanee denied the accusation, claiming she acted out of stress. Officers continued their search for Santi and tracked him to the Lat Phrao area of Bangkok, where he had connections. However, they soon lost his trail. Santi was later located in Nakhon Ratchasima, and police received a tip-off that he was planning to travel to Amnat Charoen province. They set up a checkpoint to monitor suspicious vehicles. A suspicious taxi eventually arrived, with Santi inside. He attempted to flee once again but stumbled and sustained injuries, leading to his arrest. Finally, police apprehended Santi in Nakhon Ratchasima province today. He has now been transferred to Tao Poon Police Station in Bangkok for questioning. UPDATE 1: Former boxer’s wife charged after Bangkok police standoff A former boxer’s wife faces multiple charges after a dramatic standoff and police chase in Bangkok. The search for her husband continues. Bang Sue police escorted 42 year old Potjanee Boonlong to the Criminal Court today, October 6, seeking a 12-day detention approval. Charged with illegal possession of a gun, carrying it without permission, carrying it in public without a valid reason, illegal detention, and possession of illicit drugs, Potjanee’s legal troubles arise from a series of violent events. Potjanee is married to Santi Jae-arlee, a 39 year old former boxer who broke into a house on Inthamara Soi 29 in Phaya Thai district on October 3 night, evading arrest for theft. When police surrounded the house, where a woman and her two sons were inside, Santi opened fire but managed to escape. The mother had already fled, and the two brothers were safely rescued by the police. Following the incident, Potjanee went to a deserted building near the house her husband had invaded. Learning about her husband’s desperate situation, she threatened to harm herself, prompting a tense two-hour negotiation with the police. Eventually, she fled the building and held a police officer at gunpoint, forcing him to drive towards Wang Noi district in Ayutthaya. She surrendered to the police the following morning. Potjanee apologised for her actions before being taken to court. Deputy Chief of the Metropolitan Police Bureau, Police Major General Noppasil Phoonsawat, revealed that Potjanee admitted to taking drugs the day before travelling to Bangkok to see her husband. Her stress levels spiked upon learning about Santi’s flight from the law. During a media briefing, Pol. Maj. Gen. Noppasil displayed a photo of Santi and provided details about the ongoing manhunt. Santi’s break-in and subsequent actions have made him a high-priority target for the police, said Pol. Maj. Gen. Noppasil. “The woman admitted to having taken drugs the day before travelling to Bangkok to see her husband. She became stressed after learning that her husband was fleeing arrest.” Two police teams are actively searching for Santi, whose actions have not only endangered his freedom but also brought severe consequences for his wife, reported Bangkok Post. The police remain focused on apprehending Santi. ORIGINAL STORY: Bangkok on the ropes: Ex-boxer dodges arrest and takes hostages A former Thai boxer remains at large after evading arrest for theft. The fugitive then went on a rampage in Bangkok’s Phrayathai district, taking two innocent people hostage in the process. The 39 year old theft suspect, Santi Jehali, began his disturbing behaviour after officers from Tao Poon Police Station raided his home to arrest him yesterday, October 3, at around 7pm. Santi fired shots at the group of police officers to clear a way to escape. Santi fled down Soi Inthamara 29, scaling a wall to hide in the home of a family of four. Two family members managed to escape, but the other two were not as fortunate. Santi held these remaining individuals hostage, firing a gun into the air to warn police officers not to approach. By around 12.15am today, October 4, the police successfully rescued the two hostages. However, Santi eluded capture, escaping from the house through a ceiling vent. As officers continued their search for Santi, his wife became distraught and attempted to shoot herself in an abandoned building nearby. Police, along with rescuers and other relevant officials, managed to dissuade her from harming herself by around 1.45am. The officers escorted Santi’s wife to a police car to take her to the station. Yet, once inside the vehicle, she threatened the officer driving with a gun, demanding to be taken to Vibhavadi Rangsit Road. She later exited the police car on Thanyaburi Road in the Wang Noi district of Ayutthaya province and fled into a grassy field, again threatening to harm herself. Officers finally calmed her down around 5.50am and took her to hospital for treatment of an injury to her left foot. Santi’s former employer and boxing gym owner, 57 year old Sorrasak Saetang, who was initially called to the scene to help the police pacify Santi’s wife, told officers that Santi was once a renowned boxer, known in the industry as Rittidate Maimueangkhon. After retiring from boxing, Santi became a trainer. However, he developed a theft habit, used drugs, and carried a gun at all times. As a result, Sorrasak had to dismiss him from the gym about five years ago. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-07 The search for Santi continues.

Paetongtarn defends iPad use at Qatar summit amid criticism by Ryan Turner Image: Reuters Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra addressed criticisms after a photograph of her reading from an iPad at her first international summit in Qatar circulated on social media. The image, taken last week, raised questions about the 38 year old’s leadership abilities. Responding on Instagram, Paetongtarn addressed a netizen who posted the photos and described them as embarrassing for Thailand. The netizen also unfavourably compared her to former Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha. In her statement, Paetongtarn urged that all leaders across the globe use scripts. “Thank you for the advice. Please watch the news and read more information. During meetings like these, leaders across the world read scripts. It’s a commitment. It must be recorded. Everyone reads scripts, from sheikhs to ministers, “Keep an open mind, and you’ll be happier.” In an Instagram story, Paetongtarn reiterated her preparation for the event. “It’s not like I went without doing my homework. It was an international event in which it would be inappropriate to break the norm.” Noppadon Pattama, Pheu Thai Party list MP and former foreign affairs minister defended Paetongtarn, stating that reading from a script is standard practice in international meetings. He suggested that the criticism was unwarranted and urged critics to focus on the substance of her remarks instead. Veteran journalist Suthichai Yoon also commented on the situation. In a post made on X (Twitter), he questioned why was her script written in English. “Why read from an iPad? Why was it in English? Why didn’t the Foreign Affairs Ministry prepare an interpreter for her? Didn’t the Iranian president speak in his own language?” Suthichai argued that Paetongtarn needs ‘special care’ due to her inexperience in international meetings, blaming the foreign affairs ministry for not adequately preparing her for the event, reported Bangkok Post. The debate about Paetongtarn’s iPad underscores a broader conversation about modern diplomatic norms and expectations. The tool used by many leaders for its convenience and efficiency became a focal point for critics rather than the significance of her participation in the summit. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-07

Heavy rainfall expected tomorrow in 27 provinces, warnings issued by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) forecasted heavy rainfall leading into tomorrow, October 8, affecting 27 provinces, particularly in the southern region, with warnings of potential flooding and flash floods. The northeastern region will experience cool mornings. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340037-heavy-rainfall-expected-tomorrow-in-27-provinces-warnings-issued/

The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) forecasted heavy rainfall leading into tomorrow, October 8, affecting 27 provinces, particularly in the southern region, with warnings of potential flooding and flash floods. The northeastern region will experience cool mornings. The TMD issued a weather forecast for the next 24 hours, highlighting an area of moderate high pressure or cool air mass from China covering the eastern parts of the northern, central, and northeastern regions, as well as the South China Sea. This weather pattern will result in cooler mornings in the northeastern region and reduced rainfall in the upper parts of Thailand. However, the monsoon trough passing through the central southern region is expected to bring heavy to very heavy rainfall in some areas. Residents in the southern region are advised to be cautious of the dangers posed by heavy and accumulated rainfall, which may lead to sudden flooding and flash floods, particularly in foothill areas near waterways and low-lying areas. It is also advised to take care of health due to the changing weather conditions. Warnings have been issued for 11 provinces downstream of the Chao Phraya Dam, urging vigilance against flooding following the dam’s water discharge. Today’s weather brings cold winds to the northeastern region, though 30 provinces are still expected to experience rainfall, with the risk of sudden flooding. In addition, waves in the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand are expected to reach about one metre in height, with areas experiencing thunderstorms seeing waves over 2 metres high. Mariners are advised to navigate with caution and avoid sailing in areas with thunderstorms. Regional updates In the northern region, thunderstorms are expected in 20% of the area, especially in Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Lamphun, and Tak provinces. The minimum temperature will range between 23 to 25 degrees Celsius (°C), while the maximum will be between 32 to 35°C. Southeastern winds will blow at speeds of 10 to 20 kilometres per hour (km/h). In the northeastern region, cool mornings with light rain are to be expected in some areas, mainly in the lower parts. The minimum temperature will be between 20 to 24°C, and the maximum will be between 31 to 34°C. Northeastern winds will blow at speeds of 10 to 25 km/h. In the central regions, thunderstorms are predicted in 10% of the area, particularly in Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Samut Songkhram, and Samut Sakhon provinces. The minimum temperature will range from 21 to 25°C, with the maximum between 32 to 34°C. Southeastern winds will blow at speeds of 10 to 20 km/h. In the eastern region, thunderstorms are expected in 30% of the area, with heavy rain in some places, especially in Chon Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat provinces. The minimum temperature will range from 23 to 26°C, and the maximum will be between 32 to 35°C. Eastern winds will blow at speeds of 15 to 30 km/h. The sea will have waves about 1 metre high but over 2 metres in areas with thunderstorms. For the southern region (east coast), thunderstorms are expected in 70% of the area, with heavy to very heavy rain in some places, particularly in Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat provinces. The minimum temperature will range from 23 to 24°C, and the maximum will be between 30 to 33°C. Variable winds will blow at speeds of 15 to 30 km/h. The sea will have waves about one metre high but over 2 metres in areas with thunderstorms. Southern storms In the southern region (west coast), thunderstorms are predicted in 70% of the area, with heavy to very heavy rain in some places, especially in Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, Krabi, Trang, and Satun provinces. The minimum temperature will range from 24 to 25°C, and the maximum will be between 30 to 32°C. Variable winds will blow at speeds of 15 to 30 km/h. The sea will have waves about one metre high but over 2 metres in areas with thunderstorms. For Bangkok and surrounding areas, thunderstorms are expected in 20% of the area. The minimum temperature will range from 25 to 26°C, and the maximum will be between 33 to 34°C. Eastern winds will blow at speeds of 10 to 20 km/h. by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-07

Advisor Urges Public Not to Criticise PM Paetongtarn for using iPad Picture courtesy: TNA Jirayu Huangsap, an advisor to the Prime Minister, has asked the public to refrain from criticizing the Prime Minister for using an iPad to read speeches. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340032-advisor-urges-public-not-to-criticise-pm-paetongtarn for-using-ipad/

Jirayu Huangsap, an advisor to the Prime Minister, has asked the public to refrain from criticizing the Prime Minister for using an iPad to read speeches. He clarified that while the Prime Minister often speaks without a script, international forums require accuracy. At these global events, world leaders must adhere closely to prepared statements, as such agreements cannot be altered in the way impromptu speeches might be. Jirayu emphasized that Thailand is stepping onto the world stage, and he urged Thais to show support for their leader. Jirayu addressed recent criticisms surrounding the Prime Minister’s use of an iPad during the recent Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD) summit. He explained that the Prime Minister was following protocol typical for international agreements, where every word must be carefully read to maintain accuracy. According to Jirayu, this approach is necessary because international statements carry a weight that general speeches do not. “Globally, citizens are more concerned about the substance and benefits of their leaders' actions rather than the medium they use to communicate," Jirayu said. He stressed that these actions ultimately contribute to the country’s progress on an international level. Jirayu also pointed out that the Prime Minister is comfortable speaking off-the-cuff at domestic events, but for significant global forums, prepared remarks are essential. He likened this to government policy announcements, where adherence to exact wording is required. Jirayu concluded by urging the public to support the Prime Minister and work together to help Thailand advance on the world stage. Picture courtesy: TNA -- 2024-10-07

Supercar convoy causes major delays on M6 motorway (video) by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A convoy of luxury supercars obstructed traffic on the M6 motorway, causing significant delays. The incident, captured on video and posted online, has sparked heated discussions among netizens. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340028-supercar-convoy-causes-major-delays-on-m6-motorway-video/

A convoy of luxury supercars obstructed traffic on the M6 motorway, causing significant delays. The incident, captured on video and posted online, has sparked heated discussions among netizens. A video posted by the popular page “อยากดังเดี๋ยวจัดให้ รีเทริน์ part 6” shows a line of luxury supercars, led by Ferraris, cruising along the Bang Pa-in to Nakhon Ratchasima stretch of the M6 motorway. Police vehicles accompanying the convoy prevented other drivers from overtaking, forcing the person filming to drive at 60 kilometres per hour. The driver, who had pressing matters to attend to, felt the convoy was obstructing traffic. “Voices of taxpayers like us want to complain. Why are luxury cars allowed to have activities without any public announcement? Road users are inconvenienced,” read the post accompanying the video. The incident took place yesterday, October 5, on the M6 motorway in Lam Takhong. The convoy of supercars caused a significant traffic build-up behind them as frustrated drivers were unable to pass. “This is a hot, fresh incident. Why must we drive and create such trouble? Everyone has their own business to attend to. We want everyone to help voice out,” the post continued, reported KhaoSod. The video quickly gained traction, with numerous comments pouring in. Some speculated whether the convoy was part of a film shoot or a promotional event, questioning the necessity and the lack of prior public notification. In related news, a great number of people have read the book or seen The Horse Whisperer movie, now get ready for the buffalo whisperer after a video shared by Bang Chan Police Station went viral showing a Thai officer whispering sweet nothings in the ears of two buffaloes blocking a road in Bangkok. The Horse Whisperer is a 1998 movie based on the 1995 novel of the same name. It’s doubtful whether there will be a sequel based on the Thai officer’s Dr Doolittle-esque animal-talking skills but his actions brought a smile to the faces of thousands on social media. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-07

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Monday 7 October 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340024-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-monday-7-october-2024/

NEWS - 07-October.mp4 The Royal Irrigation Department is warning people along waterways in the lower Chao Phraya River basin, including residents in Bangkok, of possible overflows or deeper flood levels. Water being discharged farther north will affect Sing Buri, Ayutthaya, Pathum Thani, Nonthaburi and parts of the capital.. The Customs Department will intensify screening of imported goods to prevent the smuggling of substandard products. a "special import notification centre" has been set up to close a loophole that had been exploited by importers. 144 types of controlled goods, including detergents, plastic utensils, electrical plugs and synthetic dyes, must now be imported through the new National Single Window regardless of quantity. Consumers were advised to avoid ordering cheap products that may be substandard. A 47-year-old woman with a history of fraud was arrested in Lat Krabang, Bangkok, over the weekend Her arrest followed a senator's report about a suspected con artist at the parliament building. She allegedly posed as a government official wearing a white uniform, mingled with lawmakers claiming to be a secretary of former Prime minister Prayut and posed with several of them for photos. Investigators found she had been prosecuted for fraud 14 times since 2010. The 48th anniversary of the 1976 massacre was marked at Thammasat University, over the weekend. On October 6, 1976, Thai police and right-wing paramilitaries violently cracked down on protesters at the university. Officially, 46 people were killed, with 167 wounded, though unofficial reports suggest over 100 demonstrators died. Across the region The leaders of China and North Korea vowed to enhance bilateral cooperation on the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries yesterday. China’s president Xi said his country was ready to continue to "write a new chapter" of relations through strengthened communications and cooperation. Todays Weather Chiang Mai and the north: Sunny partly cloudy 32C degrees celsius Bangkok: cloudy with rain 33C Pattaya: cloudy Thundershowers 30C Phuket and the south: sunny partly cloudy some showers 30C Hua Hin: Bright, cloudy with isolated shower 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 2024-10-07 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5

Deputy House Speaker Pichet Approves MP's Sick Leave Amid Tak Bai Case Concerns Picture courtesy: WeR NEWS Deputy House Speaker Pichet Chuamuangphan has confirmed he approved a sick leave request for Pheu Thai Party MP Gen Pisal Wattanawongkiri, amid worries it might enable him to avoid facing trial regarding the Tak Bai massacre. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340018-deputy-house-speaker-pichet-approves-mps-sick-leave-amid-tak-bai-case-concerns/

Deputy House Speaker Pichet Chuamuangphan has confirmed he approved a sick leave request for Pheu Thai Party MP Gen Pisal Wattanawongkiri, amid worries it might enable him to avoid facing trial regarding the Tak Bai massacre. The approved leave, spanning from 26th August to 30th October, allows Gen Pisal, currently receiving medical treatment overseas, a significant hiatus from Thailand. Gen Pisal, formerly the Fourth Army Region's commander, is entangled in the Tak Bai case concerning the 2004 crackdown on protesters in Narathiwat province, which left 48 dead or injured. The case's statute of limitations is due to expire on 25th October, leaving many questioning if Gen Pisal will attend court in time. Mr Pichet has stated that members of parliament commonly request leave for various reasons, including health and personal issues. He refrained from commenting on apprehensions that Gen Pisal's leave might impact the justice process, only noting that leave requests of up to 80 days have precedents in the House. The Tak Bai case, accepted by Narathiwat Provincial Court on 23rd August, poses a significant challenge to the judiciary and political landscape, given Gen Pisal's pending indictment. Critics argue the timing of his leave request raises suspicions about potential evasion of legal responsibilities. Political voices from various factions have urged swift action. Palang Pracharath Party spokesman Piya Tawichai has called for Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to expedite the case. Former election commissioner Somchai Srisutthiyakorn criticised the approval process and noting a lack of medical documentation for the leave. Highlighting concern over timing, Fair Party MP Kannavee Suebsang pointed out the proximity between the leave request and the court's acceptance of the case. These developments broaden the dialogue on accountability and transparency within Thailand's political and judicial systems, reported Bangkok Post. Picture courtesy: WeR NEWS -- 2024-10-07

File photo On October 1, crowds gathered at the Government Savings Bank in Mae Chan district, Chiang Rai, to withdraw funds as part of the government’s 10,000-baht cash handout initiative. However, according to a recent survey by the National Institute of Development Administration (Nida Poll), over a third of recipients remain uncertain about whether they will support the government after receiving the cash boost. The nationwide survey, conducted from October 1 to 3, polled 1,312 individuals aged 18 and above from various educational and occupational backgrounds. The survey sought to gauge public sentiment towards the Pheu Thai-led government’s digital wallet handout scheme. When asked if they would support the government after receiving the handout, the responses were: 34.35% were undecided 30.31% said the handout could influence their support to some extent 20.38% already supported the Paetongtarn Shinawatra administration, regardless of the scheme 13.13% opposed the government no matter what 1.83% had no opinion or interest in the matter Respondents were also asked about their intended use for the 10,000-baht handout: 86.79% plan to cover daily expenses like utility bills and fuel 16.49% will save it for future needs 14.35% aim to repay debt 13.59% intend to cover healthcare costs, such as medicines and doctor visits 8.24% plan to purchase goods for resale 7.48% will use it for education-related expenses 1.37% want to buy electrical appliances 1.07% plan to spend on lottery tickets 0.99% intend to purchase mobile or IT devices 0.69% will use it for entertainment, including alcohol or cigarettes 0.31% plan to spend on travel 0.15% will buy gold or jewelry 0.99% did not specify their intended use The results underscore varied public responses to the cash handout scheme, with many still contemplating its impact on their political support for the current government, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-10-07

1/3 of Cash Handout Recipients Undecided on Backing Thai Govt File photo On October 1, crowds gathered at the Government Savings Bank in Mae Chan district, Chiang Rai, to withdraw funds as part of the government’s 10,000-baht cash handout initiative. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340003-13-of-cash-handout-recipients-undecided-on-backing-thai-govt/

Jatuporn Threatens Street Protests Against Casino and Land Lease Plans Jatuporn Prompan. File photo courtesy: Naewna Jatuporn Prompan, the former leader of Thailand's red-shirt movement, has issued a stern warning to the current government concerning two contentious projects: the legalisation of casinos and the extension of land leases up to 99 years for foreign investors. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340016-jatuporn-threatens-street-protests-against-casino-and-land-lease-plans/

Jatuporn Prompan, the former leader of Thailand's red-shirt movement, has issued a stern warning to the current government concerning two contentious projects: the legalisation of casinos and the extension of land leases up to 99 years for foreign investors. Jatuporn, while speaking at an event organised by Peace TV, a satellite television station, made it clear that he is prepared to mobilise protests if the government proceeds with these initiatives. The event in question, held to celebrate Jatuporn's 59th birthday, was attended by a diverse audience comprising former red and yellow-shirt supporters along with student activists. Despite the celebratory occasion, the event quickly turned into a platform for serious dialogue about the country's direction, particularly in relation to the controversial plans on casinos and extensive land leases. Jatuporn claims the government is poised to permit the establishment of eight casino complexes across the nation and lease approximately 300,000 rai, equivalent to 48,000 hectares, to a foreign conglomerate in the Ranong and Chumphon provinces. This land is earmarked for a massive project known as the "southern land bridge," intended to enhance economic development in the region. Prompan, who has led significant protests in the past, declared his intention to bring demonstrators back to the streets of Bangkok should these projects receive governmental approval. He referenced his experience in 2010 when he spearheaded protests against then-Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva, resulting in months of sustained demonstrations. Nevertheless, former senator Wanchai Sornsiri, commenting via a YouTube channel, suggested that replicating past protest numbers might prove challenging for Jatuporn. He pointed out that many former protest leaders across both political divides are now affiliated with governmental roles, which could mitigate widespread support for fresh demonstrations, reported The Nation. TOP: Jatuporn Prompan. File photo courtesy: Naewna -- 2024-10-07

Dubai Businessman Donates 5 Million Baht to Support Moo Deng at Khao Kheow Open Zoo By Adam Judd Khao Kheow Open Zoo has become a viral sensation as “Moo Deng,” the world-famous and adorable baby hippo, continues to captivate tourists who flock to see her cuteness. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340007-dubai-businessman-donates-5-million-baht-to-support-moo-deng-at-khao-kheow-open-zoo/

Khao Kheow Open Zoo has become a viral sensation as “Moo Deng,” the world-famous and adorable baby hippo, continues to captivate tourists who flock to see her cuteness. Recently, a group of businessmen from Dubai traveled to Thailand to donate 5 million baht to support Moo Deng and Khao Kheow Open Zoo. Mr. Atthaphon Sriran, Director of the Zoological Park Organization of Thailand, revealed that this generous donation was made due to the growing global popularity of Moo Deng. Previously, the zoo had also received support from investors in the cryptocurrency industry, with a donation of 35,882 baht under the name “Moodeng on ETH,” a meme coin inspired by this pygmy hippo. The funds are expected to be used to improve the zoo and Moo Deng’s quality of life, enclosure, toys and for her daily needs as she grows and needs a substantial amount of food. By Adam Judd Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS -- 2024-10-07