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UPDATE: American man suspected of sexually assaulting a 3-year-old girl; Suspect Denies Charges, Police Confident with Evidence Picture courtesy: Manager Online A foreign national suspected of sexually assaulting a 3-year-old girl has been detained for questioning. Initially, the suspect has denied the allegations. However, police confirm they have sufficient evidence and are preparing to file for an arrest warrant. A neighbor stated that the foreigner frequently visited the victim's house and urged strict legal action if found guilty. According to recent social media posts in Phuket, the call for swift police action came after a 3-year-old girl was reported to have been sexually assaulted in Rawai. The victim was sent to the hospital by relatives on September 21, with severe injuries and fatigue symptoms. The girl's family reported the crime to Chalong Police Station on September 23. At 2:00 PM on September 25, Police Major General Sinlert Sukhum, Commander of the Phuket Provincial Police, interrogated a 45-year-old American man suspected of committing the assault. The incident allegedly occurred at a residence in Saiyuan Village, Rawai, Phuketm, reported Manager Online. The suspect was apprehended by Phuket Provincial Police and Immigration officers at a residence in Soi Ta-Iat, Chalong, Phuket. During the initial questioning, the suspect denied any wrongdoing. Police Major General Sinlert Sukhum stated that, despite the denial, investigators had gathered substantial evidence and planned to request an arrest warrant from the Phuket Provincial Court soon. Local resident Mr. Baw (alias) mentioned that he discovered the incident early in the morning when he heard people making commotion. When he inquired, he was told the girl was bleeding and needed to be taken to the hospital. The child allegedly identified a foreigner as the perpetrator. Mr. Baw noted that he had seen the foreigner visit the victim's house about twice a month and occasionally brought his wife. He often brought diapers, snacks, and milk for the child. However, on the day of the incident, he arrived empty-handed and appeared intoxicated. Mr. Baw expressed sympathy for the child, having known her since she was a baby, and urged that the foreigner be detained as he poses a danger to society and could potentially harm other children in the future. The suspect reportedly entered Thailand on a Non-Immigrant Visa (NON 90) on December 8, 2023, with permission to stay until March 12, 2025. -- 2024-09-26

Young Thai Girl, 9, Rescued from Brutal Abuse at Home Picture via Matichon A nine-year-old Thai girl who had been brutally abused by her aunt in Nonthaburi province, near Bangkok, was rescued by the wife of social media influencer Guntouch “Gun” Pongpaiboonwet. The young girl had bite marks all over her body and her ears were deformed. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339114-young-thai-girl-9-rescued-from-brutal-abuse-at-home/

Picture via Matichon A nine-year-old Thai girl who had been brutally abused by her aunt in Nonthaburi province, near Bangkok, was rescued by the wife of social media influencer Guntouch “Gun” Pongpaiboonwet. The young girl had bite marks all over her body and her ears were deformed. The rescue began when a woman from the Bang Bua Thong district of Nonthaburi reached out for help by sharing the girl's story on Gun’s official Facebook page. Gun's wife, Lalita “Miew” Hongsamat, quickly responded and rescued the girl on September 24th. The woman who sought help saw the girl at the Bang Bua Thong Market on September 22nd. She noticed the girl’s body covered in wounds and asked vendors in the market for more information. The vendors revealed that the girl often came to the market asking for food and admitted that she was regularly abused by her aunt. The aunt not only beat the girl but also bit her, leading to the deformation of her ears, which the girl tried to hide by covering them with her hair. The girl also shared her tragic situation with the vendors, saying her mother was in jail and she believed her father had died. She begged for food not just for herself but also for her aunt and the aunt’s two children. Many times, she did not have enough food for herself because she prioritized feeding her aunt’s family. Despite her pleas for the abuse to stop, the girl said her aunt continued to beat her. Her uncle, who lived with them, tried to protect her but was also assaulted by the aunt. Currently, the girl is in the care of the Nonthaburi Provincial Social Development and Human Security Office (M-Society). Authorities will summon the aunt to the Bang Bua Thong Police Station for questioning. This story is a stark reminder of the importance of community awareness and intervention in addressing domestic violence and child abuse. -- 2024-09-26

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Thursday 26 September 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339109-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-thursday-26-september-2024/

NEWS - 26-September.mp4 An Opposition MP has urged Prime Minister Paetongtarn to ensure that police quickly bring suspects in two cases related to the 2004 Tak Bai massacre to trial before the statute of limitations expires on Oct 25. One of the suspects, a Pheu Thai MP, has yet to face prosecution despite a court order, citing parliamentary immunity. The cases involve the deaths of seven protesters by gunfire and 78 others who suffocated during detention. The Criminal Court yesterday granted bail to a former finance minister accused of bribery in a decades-old deal involving Rolls-Royce engines for Thai Airways. He and a former finance vice president are due in court on Oct 7. Rolls-Royce admitted in 2017 to paying 254 million baht to secure the deal. Two Thai women and a Chinese man were arrested at Suvarnabhumi Airport on Tuesday for their alleged involvement in a human trafficking network that lured Thai women into prostitution in West Africa. Their arrest comes nearly a year after six victims filed a complaint with anti-trafficking police, accusing the group of exploitation. Flash floods from Khao Yai National Park swept down and trapped Three orchard workers - two men and a woman in a hut late last night. Rescue workers used ropes to cross a fast flowing stream, they eventually managed to return the group to safety. Meanwhile much of Chaing mai and the north remain inundated with mud and water. Across the region Japan's Self-Defense Force patrolled the Taiwan Strait for the first time yesterday, aiming to send a message to China. The passage was conducted with naval ships from Australia and New Zealand. Increased Chinese military activity near Japan and Taiwan has raised concerns in Tokyo, prompting a defense buildup to deter China from advancing its territorial claims. Indonesia President Joko Widodo announced that the airport at the new capital Nusan-tara will open for commercial flights by the end of this year. The airport will accommodate up to 200,000 passengers, with a long-term goal of handling seven million passengers annually. Todays Weather Rain across the north and north east Chiang Mai and the north: Cloudy, heavy , torrential rain 30C degrees celsius Bangkok: cloudy with thunderstorms 33C Pattaya: Bright with thunderstorms. 30C Phuket and the south: sunny partly cloudy 30C Hua Hin: Sunny becoming more Cloudy, perhaps an 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 2024-09-26 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5

Elderly Woman in Tears at ATM: Receives 10,000 Baht to Support Family Picture courtesy: Siam Rath A 64-year-old woman from Buriram broke down in tears of joy at an ATM after receiving 10,000 Baht. She shared her struggles in caring for her three disabled siblings and three school-age grandchildren, relying on a meager income from pensions and government assistance, which includes a monthly 300 Baht welfare card. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339107-elderly-woman-in-tears-at-atm-receives-10000-baht-to-support-family/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath A 64-year-old woman from Buriram broke down in tears of joy at an ATM after receiving 10,000 Baht. She shared her struggles in caring for her three disabled siblings and three school-age grandchildren, relying on a meager income from pensions and government assistance, which includes a monthly 300 Baht welfare card. On September 25, 2024, at the Agricultural Bank in Buriram, vulnerable groups, including people with disabilities and those with welfare cards ending in zero, were lined up to check and withdraw funds from the 10,000 Baht digital program. Among them was Ms. Noi Yaemprakhon, who was thrilled to have the money deposited into her account. With the help of security staff, she withdrew the cash, overwhelmed with happiness and crying at the ATM amid a crowd of others. In an emotional voice, she expressed that she hadn’t held such a large sum in over a decade. Previously a vendor, her declining health and lack of capital forced her to stop selling, reported Siam Rath. Now, she supports her three disabled siblings and three school-aged grandchildren with her pension and government assistance, but it's often insufficient. Additionally, her youngest son, who sells fried chicken, suffered a leg injury, further complicating their financial situation. With the 10,000 Baht, she quickly bought rice and eggs to sustain her household and hopes to cook meals for sale to generate extra income. She expressed gratitude to the government for this assistance, emphasizing the need for continued support for impoverished and disabled individuals. Given her family’s difficult circumstances, she hopes to acquire a wheelchair to help sell goods and improve their income. -- 2024-09-26

Drug-Crazed Driver Rams 8 Cars, Assaults Police Officer A wild chase ended with the arrest of "Crazy Drugged Tom," who drove recklessly and crashed into eight cars. During the arrest, Sergeant Satawat was hit in the face with a gun and injured. The suspect was detained and gave incoherent statements, claiming to be a Bolt driver. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339106-drug-crazed-driver-rams-8-cars-assaults-police-officer/

A wild chase ended with the arrest of "Crazy Drugged Tom," who drove recklessly and crashed into eight cars. During the arrest, Sergeant Satawat was hit in the face with a gun and injured. The suspect was detained and gave incoherent statements, claiming to be a Bolt driver. At 8:34 PM on September 25th, Deputy Inspector Sukhan Kanwasont and several traffic officers from Thung Maha Mek Police Station, including Sergeant Sawatsakorn Nueree and Sergeant Suppawich Buayenda, worked together to arrest Ms. A (assumed name). They seized a 9mm automatic gun with an empty magazine and a sharp knife in a sheath. The incident occurred while the traffic officers were managing traffic at the Sathorn North intersection. They received a report from the Lumphini Radio Center to intercept a white car with unknown plates causing damage to other vehicles along Sathorn Road heading towards the Wireless intersection, reported Daily News. The officers followed on motorcycles and found the white Toyota car with a Bangkok license plate waiting at a red light. The car had visible collision marks. They asked the driver to step out, revealing Ms. A, who was dressed as a man. She stepped out but suddenly hit Sergeant Satawat in the face with a gun, causing injuries. She was immediately detained. Ms. A was taken to the Thung Maha Mek Police Station for questioning. Her statements were confused, suggesting drug influence. She claimed to work as a Bolt driver and asserted that the gun was in her possession. The authorities proceeded to test her for drugs and took legal action according to the law. Thank you to Big Krean Page for the information and photos. -- 2024-09-26

Pheu Thai's U-Turn on Charter Ethics Amendment: Four Key Reasons FILE - Somchai Srisutthiyakorn. Picture courtesy: Komchadluek In a surprising political development, the Pheu Thai Party has reversed its decision to amend the ethics clauses of the constitution. This abrupt backtrack was analysed by former election commissioner Somchai Srisutthiyakorn, who highlighted four pivotal reasons for this change, as reported by Naewna newspaper on September 25. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339099-pheu-thais-u-turn-on-charter-ethics-amendment-four-key-reasons/

In a surprising political development, the Pheu Thai Party has reversed its decision to amend the ethics clauses of the constitution. This abrupt backtrack was analysed by former election commissioner Somchai Srisutthiyakorn, who highlighted four pivotal reasons for this change, as reported by Naewna newspaper on September 25. Yesterday, the People’s Party submitted a draft for amending ten clauses of the constitution. Among these proposed changes were revisions to the qualifications of politicians and their ethical standards. In a Facebook post, Somchai likened Pheu Thai’s retreat from these amendments to a vehicle making a U-turn at the entrance of an alley, leaving its passengers, the People’s Party, bewildered. Here are the four key reasons Somchai attributed to Pheu Thai’s drastic shift: 1) Internal Opposition from People’s Party: The People’s Party did not fully endorse amending the ethics clauses. Their initial proposal was seen more as a tentative measure to gauge public reaction. When met with significant backlash - being accused of benefiting their camp exclusively - they chose to withdraw. 2) Coalition Partners' Stance: Pheu Thai’s coalition partners aimed to maintain a favourable public image amidst prevailing social trends. This led to a gradual but clear opposition to amending the ethics clauses. Significant opposition came from parties such as Bhumjaithai, Ruam Thai Sang Chart, and the Democrat Party, reported Thai Newsroom. 3) Parliamentary Approval Challenges: Amending the constitution requires more than half of the lawmakers’ approval, which includes securing one-third of the votes from the 200 senators. This task proved daunting since a substantial number of senators are informally referred to as “Blue Senators,” allegedly influenced by Bhumjaithai, de facto led by Newin Chidchob. 4) Time Constraints: Timing was a critical factor. If a referendum on the charter amendment is to be held by early February next year alongside provincial administration organisation elections, Thailand's parliament must pass three readings by October 30 this year. The law mandates that 60 days must precede the referendum from the approval date, compressing the timeline impossibly tight. These factors collectively underscored the impracticality of the proposed amendments, leading Pheu Thai to refocus its energy on more viable political pursuits. FILE - Somchai Srisutthiyakorn. Picture courtesy: Komchadluek -- 2024-09-26

Floodwaters Match 2011 Levels, but a Disaster Is Unlikely This Year: Anutin Picture courtesy: Matichon/FILE Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister, Anutin Charnvirakul, has assured the public that despite this year's rainfall and floodwaters being on par with 2011’s catastrophic floods, a disaster of similar scale is not anticipated. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339096-floodwaters-match-2011-levels-but-a-disaster-is-unlikely-this-year-anutin/

Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister, Anutin Charnvirakul, has assured the public that despite this year's rainfall and floodwaters being on par with 2011’s catastrophic floods, a disaster of similar scale is not anticipated. Speaking yesterday (Sep. 25), Anutin noted that although Thailand is also impacted by water released from neighbouring countries—a factor beyond the government’s control—manageable measures are being undertaken to mitigate potential flooding impacts. Residents in flood-prone areas, such as Bangkok, have been reassured that the devastating floods of 2011, which saw parts of the capital severely inundated and numerous roads turning into canals, are unlikely to recur. The 2011 floods remain the most damaging in Thailand’s history. In Chiang Mai, the Ping River overflowed its banks today, causing floodwaters to surge through the economic zone. Nevertheless, Chiang Mai Governor Nirat Pongsitthaworn reported to Anutin that the situation, though concerning, is still under control, even as the river's water levels remain high. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is set to visit Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai on Friday to assess the flooding situation firsthand and distribute relief equipment to alleviate residents' hardships. Amid the flooding in Chiang Mai, homes and even the Region 5 police station, along with police flats housing over a thousand officers and their families, were affected. Most officers have evacuated essential items required for their duties, although around 200 remain to safeguard the premises, reported Thai Newsroom. Pol. Lt. Gen. Kritthapol Yisakorn, commander of Provincial Police Region 5, has taken on a hands-on approach to support those still at the police flats. He personally delivered boxed meals to the area's staircases for the remaining residents while ensuring they remain safe amid rising waters from the Ping River. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, aiming to prevent a repeat of the devastating floods experienced in 2011. Top Picture courtesy: Matichon/FILE -- 2024-09-26

Russian Man Arrested After Super Car Racing on Samui Island By Goongnang Suksawat Surat Thani – A Russian driver was arrested after he raced his super car on the Samui Island in Surat Thani. The Bo Phut Police Chief Colonel Denduang Thongsrisuk told the Phuket Express that the issue was posted in social media after locals were concerned about reckless driving on Tuesday (September 24th). The person who posted on social media said that the yellow super car driver also caused a public nuisance with loud noise. Police found the super car parked at a villa. Mr. Alexandr, 30, Russian national, later presented himself as the super car’s owner. He presented legal sales document to police. However, the color of the car did not match with details in the Department of Land Transport system. Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS -- 2024-09-26

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 26 September 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1339093-thailand-live-thursday-26-september-2024/

3 year old Thai girl sexually assaulted by foreign man in Phuket Photo via Phuket Times An unidentified foreign man allegedly sexually assaulted a three year old Thai girl at her home in the Rawai district of Phuket in the early hours of Monday, September 23. The young victim suffered severe injuries to her private parts. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339073-3-year-old-thai-girl-sexually-assaulted-by-foreign-man-in-phuket/

A Russian man yesterday faced a 5,000 baht fine after dangerous driving on Koh Samui, an island in the southern province of Surat Thani. Locals were impressed by the police’s swift action, though some felt the punishment was too lenient. Russian fined 5,000 baht after driving dangerously on Koh Samui Photo via Facebook/ สถานีตำรวจภูธรบ่อผุด RTP Cyber Village Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339082-russian-fined-5000-baht-after-driving-dangerously-on-koh-samui-video/

Grilling it illegally: Immigration cops catch foreign ‘meat’ deliverers by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of tvpoolonline Immigration police in Samut Prakan arrested three foreign nationals operating an illegal grilled pork delivery business. The suspects were caught preparing pork, vegetables, and dipping sauces for delivery to customers, violating laws prohibiting foreigners from competing with Thai workers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339035-grilling-it-illegally-immigration-cops-catch-foreign-‘meat’-deliverers/

Immigration police in Samut Prakan arrested three foreign nationals operating an illegal grilled pork delivery business. The suspects were caught preparing pork, vegetables, and dipping sauces for delivery to customers, violating laws prohibiting foreigners from competing with Thai workers. Yesterday, September 24, Police Colonel Sumet Janwongpitak, the superintendent of the Samut Prakan Immigration Office, led a team to inspect a property in Bang Phli Yai, Bang Phli district, Samut Prakan. The property had been reported for noise disturbances at night and suspected illegal activities. It was found that three foreign individuals were running a grilled pork delivery service without proper work permits. The inspection revealed the suspects matched the descriptions provided by the informants. They were in the process of preparing various items for their grilled pork business, including pork, vegetables, dipping sauces, charcoal, and grilling equipment. These items were being prepared for home deliveries to customers who had placed orders, reported KhaoSod. The business was being run out of a rented two-storey house. The ground floor was used for preparation and storage, with blue ice boxes containing pork and vegetables. The upper floor served as living quarters for the suspects. Police arrested the three individuals and charged them with violating the Immigration Act of 1979 and the Foreign Workers Management Decree. In related news, an Indian restaurant in South Pattaya found itself at the centre of a legal storm after immigration officers discovered the owner was employing foreign workers without valid work permits. The shocking revelation came to light during a surprise inspection led by Police Lieutenant Colonel Weerachai Thinkamut and Pol. Lt. Pramot Fuengfung, which unveiled serious legal violations. During the raid, the officers uncovered a concerning situation at the bustling eatery. Several Indian employees were visibly alarmed as their documents were scrutinised, only for it to be confirmed that none of them held valid work permits. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of tvpoolonline Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-25

Marriage equality approved, LGBTQA+ couples to wed in 120 days by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ บางกอก ไพรด์ King Rama X yesterday approved the Marriage Equality Bill allowing LGBTQA+ couples in Thailand to officially marry in 120 days after the approval. The movement to allow LGBTQA+ couples to legally register their marriages in Thailand began 23 years ago, in 2001, when former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra was in office. However, Thai society had not yet widely recognised the LGBTQA+ community at that time, leading to the idea being quickly abandoned. Numerous efforts have since been made by both LGBTQA+ members and various political organisations. In 2022, Thanyawat Kamonwongwat, an MP from the now-dissolved Move Forward Party (MFP), submitted the draft for a same-sex marriage bill. Discussion and consideration of the bill were delayed for an extended period. In the interim, the government introduced the Partnership Act, which allowed LGBTQA+ couples to register their partnerships. However, the Act did not fully address their needs, as it did not grant the same rights as those afforded to male-female couples. Finally, the Marriage Equality Bill was approved by both MPs and senators on June 18 of this year. It was then forwarded to the Cabinet for royal endorsement, and King Rama X officially approved the Act yesterday, September 24, as announced in the Royal Gazette. The same-sex marriage law will come into effect 120 days after this announcement. As a result, LGBTQA+ individuals will be able to officially register their marriages next year. Following the official approval, former PM, Srettha Thavisin, expressed his appreciation on his personal Twitter account yesterday. “Another important step for Thai society. The marriage equality law has been passed. Equality is tangible in Thai society. Gender diversity will finally be fully accepted. Congratulations!” PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra also extended her congratulations to the LGBTQA+ community in Thailand, sharing on her Twitter account. “To all the love… Congratulations to everyone in love. #LoveWins Thank you for the support from all sectors. Everyone fought together for this! #MarriageEquality.” Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-25

Heavy Flooding in Pai: Two Israeli Tourists Rescued from Resort Picture courtesy: 3PlusNEWS Heavy rainfall in Pai District, Mae Hong Son Province, caused the Pai River to overflow, flooding several areas and resorts. Two Israeli tourists were trapped in a resort but were successfully rescued by local authorities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339030-heavy-flooding-in-pai-two-israeli-tourists-rescued-from-resort/

Heavy rainfall in Pai District, Mae Hong Son Province, caused the Pai River to overflow, flooding several areas and resorts. Two Israeli tourists were trapped in a resort but were successfully rescued by local authorities. On September 25, 2024, at 6:00 a.m., the Pai District Chief reported that two Israeli tourists were stranded at riverside resorts due to the flooding. Under the direction of Mae Hong Son's Governor, rescue teams monitored the rainfall and river levels throughout the night. The floodwaters affected several villages, including Pong Village and Mae Yen Village. Rescue operations, led by local officials, quickly evacuated both residents and tourists to safe locations, including temples and the Pai District meeting hall. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries or casualties, reported 3plus news. By 6:00 a.m., water levels in the Pai River had started to recede, and the situation was expected to return to normal if no further rainfall occurred. Police and local authorities remain on high alert, continuing to monitor the river and assist those affected. Temporary accommodations, food, and clothing were provided to those displaced by the floods. The situation is being closely managed to prevent further incidents, especially if water levels rise again. Earlier warnings of severe flooding had been issued by the Ministry of Natural Resources, prompting officials to prepare for the crisis. Picture courtesy: 3PlusNEWS -- 2024-09-25

I’m hiring it: McDonald’s Thailand adds Texas Chicken crew to menu by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod McDonald’s Thailand is welcoming employees from Texas Chicken, which is set to close at the end of this month. Yesterday, September 23, McDonald’s Thailand’s Recruitment Facebook page posted a message specifically inviting Texas Chicken employees to apply for positions at McDonald’s, which operates over 230 branches across the country. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339029-i’m-hiring-it-mcdonald’s-thailand-adds-texas-chicken-crew-to-menu/

McDonald’s Thailand is welcoming employees from Texas Chicken, which is set to close at the end of this month. Yesterday, September 23, McDonald’s Thailand’s Recruitment Facebook page posted a message specifically inviting Texas Chicken employees to apply for positions at McDonald’s, which operates over 230 branches across the country. “To our friends at Texas Chicken, we are saddened to hear that Texas Chicken will cease its operations in Thailand. We want to offer our support and let you know that McDonald’s, a global restaurant brand, has plenty of opportunities available for everyone. “The skills you have can help you grow steadily with us. Bring your abilities to McDonald’s, and we will always welcome you. Join us in creating wonderful moments for our customers, no matter what position you hold. Come talk to us, we are waiting for you… From all of us at McDonald’s Thailand.” Texas Chicken employees facing the closure of their workplace are encouraged to consider the opportunities McDonald’s offers. This support from McDonald’s comes as a significant gesture to those who might be worried about their employment future following the shutdown of Texas Chicken at the end of this month. Texas Chicken employees are encouraged to reach out to McDonald’s for discussions about potential positions, reported KhaoSod. ORIGINAL STORY: Cluck’s up: Texas Chicken to fly the coop in Thailand after 9 years In a shock announcement, Texas Chicken has revealed that it will be shuttering all its outlets in Thailand by the end of this month, ending a nine-year run that has left fans of the crispy treat crestfallen. The bombshell was dropped on their official Facebook page, and there was no explanation for the abrupt exit. “It’s time to say goodbye to Texas Chicken after nine years of tasty memories,” the statement read, leaving fried chicken lovers devastated. Known as Church’s Texas Chicken in the States, this American fast food giant first spread its wings in San Antonio, Texas, before roosting its headquarters in Atlanta. Here in Thailand, it was the PTT Oil and Retail Business Plc (OR) that brought the beloved brand to the nation’s petrol stations, expanding its reach to community malls and beyond. The fast food chain was an integral part of OR’s strategy to diversify from its core oil business and into the ever-popular culinary market, reported Bangkok Post. Church’s Texas Chicken isn’t just clucking around in Thailand, the franchise boasts a presence in 26 countries worldwide. But alas, for Thai fans, the countdown to the last crunch has begun. So, mark your calendars and grab that final bucket, it’s your last chance to savour the finger-lickin’ goodness before Texas Chicken closes its doors for good in Thailand. The news of Texas Chicken’s closure will be good news to some parents worried about the welfare of their children. Today’s youth in Thailand face a startling reality. Their life expectancy may be shorter than their parents, largely due to health issues stemming from excessive junk food consumption. Over 39 million children under 5 are overweight, fueling a rapid obesity epidemic. A significant contributor is junk food marketing, targeting children who lack the cognitive skills to discern advertising intent. Marketers exploit this vulnerability, spending billions to shape future consumers. Fast food chains alone spent US$5 billion on youth advertising in 2019, according to CyberGhost. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-25

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Wednesday 25 September 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339026-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-wednesday-25-september-2024/