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The tourism industry is once again shocked by a scandalous incident in which a foreign illegal tour guide attacked a Chinese tourist at a well-known jewelry store in Lat Krabang on September 17. A viral clip shows a heated argument between a male foreign illegal tour guide and a Chinese female tourist. The guide, angered by the tourist’s refusal to make a purchase, claimed it was disrespectful. He then rushed toward the tourist and pushed her, attempting to stop her from recording the altercation. The tourist screamed for help, and store security intervened, escorting the guide away before the clip cuts off. This jewelry store is notorious for catering to "zero-dollar tours," where foreign illegal guides bring tourists to buy products in exchange for tips. It is believed that the guide became frustrated when the tourist did not make a purchase, causing him to lose his commission, reported 3Plus News. Following the clip’s release on social media, many Thai tour guides expressed outrage, noting the negative impact this behavior has on both the economy and the reputation of Thai tourism. Just two days before this incident, on September 16, a group of Thai tour guides submitted a petition to the Minister of Tourism and Sports, calling for urgent action against foreign illegal tour guides and operators encroaching on reserved Thai occupations. The scandal has intensified demands for authorities, especially the Department of Tourism and Tourist Police, to take immediate action to restore confidence and improve the image of Thai tourism. Pictures via 3Plus News -- 2024-09-19

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Thursday 19 September 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338550-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-thursday-19-september-2024/

NEWS - 19-September.mp4 The opposition People’s Party has warned the government that revisions to its proposed casino project could lead to shady business dealings. They doubt the Prime Minister's plan to boost income by legalizing underground businesses will match Macau’s success and argue that the government hasn't fully considered the impact of legalizing casinos. Gen Prawit Wong-suwon is preparing to sue a TV host and a former Pheu Thai Party spokesman for releasing voice recordings that may allegedly incriminate him. The two men filed a petition seeking an ethics probe against Gen Prawit. However it was suspected the audio clips may have been obtained illegally. The Labour Minister is confident that a 400-baht daily minimum wage could be introduced nationwide on Oct 1, along with support for affected businesses. Despite uncertainty around tomorrow's meeting, where five employers' representatives missed last week's session, the remaining members will move forward, requiring a two-thirds vote to approve the wage hike. 18, seaside houses in Trang Province were hit by 3-meter high waves, destroying 15 houses, 8 were completely demolished, leaving families with nothing. Residents say government promises to build a sea wall never materialized. Across the region A Chinese aircraft carrier sailed between two Japanese islands near Taiwan for the first time yesterday, The Japanese government said it was the first time a Chinese aircraft carrier, which was accompanied by two destroyers, entered, this area within 24 miles of the country’s coast. Adding “This incident is totally unacceptable. Todays Weather The latest storm is set to track west bringing torrential rain into Ubon Rachathani and the north east later Today and tomorrow… Chiang Mai and the north: Sunny with thundershowers 34C degrees celsius Bangkok: cloudy with showers 30C Pattaya: cloudy with showers 30C Phuket and the south: Torrential rain and Thunderstorms 28C Hua Hin: Bright cloudy with thundershowers afternoon 30C Much the same over the weekend . AQI: green which is good Green clear, yellow moderate, Orange High, Red unhealthy. Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, 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 2024-09-19 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5

Police Unit 191 Launches Tactical First Aid Training to Reduce Operational Losses Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Police Major General Worawit Yanachinda announced the launch of an intensive Tactical First Aid Training programme aimed at enhancing the safety and operational efficiency of Thailand's Police Unit 191. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338549-police-unit-191-launches-tactical-first-aid-training-to-cut-operational-losses/

Police Major General Worawit Yanachinda announced the launch of an intensive Tactical First Aid Training programme aimed at enhancing the safety and operational efficiency of Thailand's Police Unit 191. Speaking at the event, Major General Yanachinda was joined by Police Colonel Wasan Thawatchaiwirot and other senior officials, marking a pivotal step forward for the unit. Amidst the increasingly complex landscape of crime, officers often find themselves in high-risk situations, particularly when facing armed suspects. This elevated danger necessitates equipping police personnel with specialised first aid skills distinct from conventional medical training. The programme focuses on critical interventions such as CPR under stress and the strategic use of trauma care equipment, allowing officers to manage injuries effectively in the field before traditional medical help becomes available. “Understanding Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) is indispensable for our officers. It ensures they are prepared not only to protect themselves but also to save lives in volatile environments,” Major General Yanachinda stated, emphasising the importance of this training in reducing operational losses. The training sessions, scheduled to run from September 16 to September 19, 2024, are structured into four robust training modules. Each session is designed to provide the officers with a thorough grasp of TCCC principles and hands-on practice. The expertise is provided by instructors from the 3rd Division of the Air Support Command alongside the Border Patrol Police, ensuring top-tier tactical medical education. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Deputy Commanders Police Lieutenant Colonel Kongsak Srihor and Police Lieutenant Colonel Satawat Khonchum, along with Police Lieutenant Colonel Chetthaporn Bua-chan, were among the over 50 Patrol Unit officers participating in the programme, underscoring the broad commitment to enhancing unit readiness and survival skills. This training initiative highlights Unit 191’s commitment to staying abreast of modern tactical requirements, ensuring that officers are better prepared to face the unpredictable challenges of their duty. As crime evolves, so too must the methods employed by those who stand on the front line. TOP Picture courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2024-09-19

Prawit Faces Scrutiny Over Possible Excessive Absences from House Sessions FIle photo courtesy: Thai Rath House Speaker Wan Muhamad Noor Matha has initiated an investigation into whether Palang Pracharath leader and MP Prawit Wongsuwan has missed too many parliamentary sessions, which could jeopardize his status as a member of the House of Representatives. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338547-prawit-faces-scrutiny-over-possible-excessive-absences-from-house-sessions/

House Speaker Wan Muhamad Noor Matha has initiated an investigation into whether Palang Pracharath leader and MP Prawit Wongsuwan has missed too many parliamentary sessions, which could jeopardize his status as a member of the House of Representatives. This action follows a petition filed today by former Pheu Thai spokesperson Prompong Nopparit. The investigation will determine if Prawit has been absent from more than 25% of House sessions without prior permission, which, according to parliamentary rules, could endanger his MP status. Prawit has reportedly failed to vote or abstain from voting on 13 out of 16 bills and motions since the current parliamentary term began. In a related development, a controversial tape surfaced on social media, allegedly capturing Prawit expressing frustrations about his unsuccessful bid to become prime minister. Prawit's party members have dismissed the tape as an AI-manipulated fabrication aimed at tarnishing his reputation, purportedly orchestrated by individuals associated with Pheu Thai. The political landscape has further shifted with the Palang Pracharath party playing a less prominent role in the current government. Half of its MPs, led by Thammanat Prompao, have defected to support Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the daughter of influential Pheu Thai figure Thaksin Shinawatra, after Palang Pracharath was excluded from the Pheu Thai-led coalition, reported Thai Newsroom. Adding to the political turmoil, Bhumjaithai MP Suwanna Kumpiro has been ordered by the Supreme Court to cease his legislative duties immediately. This suspension came as the court considers an electoral fraud case against him, filed by the Election Commission. Suwanna is accused of engaging in vote-buying activities, which allegedly secured his victory in last year’s election for an MP seat in an upper northeastern constituency. The developments involving Prawit and Suwanna underscore the increasing scrutiny and legal pressures on Thai politicians, reflecting an evolving and contentious political arena. TOP: FIle photo courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-09-19

Former Army Chief Set to Lead Neo-Conservative Party Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Former Army Chief Apirat Kongsompong is widely speculated to head a new neo-conservative party expected to emerge soon and possibly contest the upcoming general election. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338541-former-army-chief-set-to-lead-neo-conservative-party/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Former Army Chief Apirat Kongsompong is widely speculated to head a new neo-conservative party expected to emerge soon and possibly contest the upcoming general election. This party, still unnamed, is believed to be forming with the aim of recruiting prominent retirees from high-ranking government positions over the past few years. The speculated members of this potential political force include former police chief Chakthip Chaijinda, former undersecretary for interior Chatchai Promlert, as well as Apirat himself. These individuals share close personal and professional ties with former coup leader and Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, who now leads the Ruam Thai Sang Chart party. Today, Suriyasai Takasila, Dean of Rangsit University’s College of Social Innovation, commented on the neo-conservative group. He explained that this party is mainly targeting support from government personnel, both active and retired, who may oppose the reformist People’s Party. The neo-conservative camp aims to secure a solid base amongst governmental figures and older citizens who are less inclined to support the progressive reforms championed by the increasingly popular People’s Party, noted for their appeal to younger voters, reported Thai Newsroom. In recent elections, parties like the ultra-conservative Palang Pracharath, Ruam Thai Sang Chart, and the populist Pheu Thai have struggled to compete with the People’s Party's growing influence. Suriyasai, a former activist against ex-Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, now a de facto leader of Pheu Thai, emphasised the structural gap these current parties face in combating the rising youth-driven politics. As the political landscape continues to evolve, the introduction of a new neo-conservative outfit spearheaded by notable figures like Apirat Kongsompong could mark a significant shift in the forthcoming elections, potentially reconfiguring longstanding alliances and voter bases in Thailand. -- 2024-09-19

Tourist Police Ensure Safety for Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan Picture courtesy: Daily News Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira Phueak-um, Commissioner of the Tourist Police, has assured enhanced safety measures for tourists attending the upcoming Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan, set to attract thousands of visitors. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338535-tourist-police-ensure-safety-for-full-moon-party-on-koh-phangan/

Picture courtesy: Daily News Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira Phueak-um, Commissioner of the Tourist Police, has assured enhanced safety measures for tourists attending the upcoming Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan, set to attract thousands of visitors. The announcement came after a crucial security briefing held at the Vannee Golden Sands Hotel on September 18, involving key officials and representatives. Joining the security discussions were Deputy Commissioner Pol. Maj. Gen. Phongsiyam Meekhantong, Pol. Maj. Gen. Phopphon Chakkapark, British Consul Joanne Finnamore-Crorkin, London Police Chief Inspector Lorenzo Conigliaro, as well as local district and municipal leaders, reported Daily News. Picture courtesy: Daily News The main focus was on strategies to ensure the safety of the event, which will take place on Haad Rin Beach, the epicentre of the Full Moon Party festivities. Post-meeting, a large-scale readiness check and public relations campaign was conducted right on Haad Rin Beach. This initiative involved a broad spectrum of agencies including the Koh Phangan District Office, Koh Phangan Police, Surat Thani Immigration, and the Koh Phangan Marine Department. These groups, along with village committees, will work collectively to safeguard the well-being of tourists and locals alike. Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira emphasised that the initiative is in line with the government's tourism promotion policy led by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. Picture courtesy: Daily News The aim is to create a secure environment that will attract more tourists, boosting the local economy. With the high tourist season around the corner, the Tourist Police are ramping up efforts to ensure everything runs smoothly. Moreover, tourists can reach the Tourist Police via the 24/7 call centre at 1155, which is linked to emergency services at 191 and 1669, ensuring continuous support. This comprehensive approach is expected to build confidence among tourists, reassuring them of their safety while enjoying one of Thailand’s most famous beach parties. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-09-19

NBTC Approves Cell Broadcast System for Disaster Alerts Picture: NNT The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) has given the green light for a new cell broadcast system designed to send disaster alerts swiftly. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338534-nbtc-approves-cell-broadcast-system-for-disaster-alerts/

The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) has given the green light for a new cell broadcast system designed to send disaster alerts swiftly. The system, to be rolled out by two leading mobile operators, Advanced Info Services (AIS) and True Corporation, aims to provide timely warnings to residents in affected areas without requiring any special apps. AIS and True Corporation successfully trialled the technology earlier this year, demonstrating its efficacy in delivering text messages and audible alerts directly to mobile phones within the radius of their cell towers. Trairat Viriyasirikul, acting secretary-general of the NBTC, announced that both companies are expanding their network infrastructure. Additional cell towers are being installed and should be operational by the fourth quarter of the year, enhancing coverage for disaster alerts. To further encourage participation, the NBTC has decided to offer financial incentives to AIS and True. For the next three years, these companies will benefit from reduced contributions to their Universal Service Obligations. While the exact figures remain undisclosed, this move is expected to significantly lower operational costs, providing a win-win scenario for the operators and the public. Simultaneously, the NBTC is in talks with the state-run National Telecom company, which has proposed a similar alert system. Approval is pending as the commission awaits more detailed plans. Building on mobile alerts, the NBTC has also mapped out plans to test an emergency warning system through digital terrestrial television. The pilot will be conducted via the Royal Thai Army's Channel 5, aiming to reach another segment of the population that might be unaffected by mobile alerts, reported NNT. This multi-platform approach is designed to enhance public safety, ensuring that emergency information is accessible to as many people as possible. With these initiatives, the NBTC aims to bolster Thailand's preparedness and responsiveness to natural disasters, making sure that critical information reaches the public promptly and effectively. Picture: NNT -- 2024-09-19

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 19 September 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1338533-thailand-live-thursday-19-september-2024/

Thailand banks could be forced to share hacking costs Photo courtesy of The Nation Thailand’s Digital Economy and Society (DES) Minister Prasert Chantararuangthong has thrown his weight behind a groundbreaking proposal that could see commercial banks sharing the financial burden when their customers’ accounts are hacked. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338504-thailand-banks-could-be-forced-to-share-hacking-costs/

Police on the picturesque island of Koh Samui swooped and shut down 21 luxury villas that were built illegally on the pristine Khao Ma Ngaen mountain, leaving foreign tenants scrambling to pack their bags. Thai police shut down 21 villas on Koh Samui, foreigners evicted Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338515-thai-police-shut-down-21-villas-on-koh-samui-foreigners-evicted/ Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post

Thailand allocates 3.04 billion baht for flood relief by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand’s Cabinet has approved a request from the Ministry of Interior to allocate 3.04 billion baht (US$91 million) from the central budget to assist flood victims across the country. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338480-thailand-allocates-304-billion-baht-for-flood-relief/

Thailand’s Cabinet has approved a request from the Ministry of Interior to allocate 3.04 billion baht (US$91 million) from the central budget to assist flood victims across the country. This decision, taken at the new Cabinet’s first weekly meeting, will provide financial relief to approximately 338,391 households affected by flooding since May, according to ministry spokeswoman Traisuree Taisaranakul. The financial aid will range from 5,000 to 9,000 baht (US$150 to 270) per household, depending on the duration of the flooding. Households experiencing flooding for one to 30 days will receive 5,000 baht (US$150), those affected for 31 to 60 days will get 7,000 baht (US$210), and households facing floods for longer periods will be entitled to 9,000 baht (US$270), said Traisuree. “This special budget aims to offer immediate financial assistance to households severely impacted by the floods in various provinces.” Jirayu Houngsub, an adviser to Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, added that households suffering over 70% flood damage will receive an additional 230,000 baht (US$6,890). The affected 57 Thailand provinces include Krabi, Kanchanaburi, Kalasin, Kamphaeng Phet, Khon Kaen, Chanthaburi, Chachoengsao, Chaiyaphum, Chon Buri, Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai, Trang, Trat, Tak, Nonthaburi, Nakhon Nayok, Nakhon Pathom, Nakhon Phanom, Nakhon Sawan, Nakhon Ratchasima, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Nan, Bueng Kan, Prachin Buri, Ayutthaya, Phang Nga, Phayao, Phichit, Phitsanulok, Phetchabun, Phrae, Phuket, Maha Sarakham, Mukdahan, Mae Hong Son, Yala, Rayong, Ratchaburi, Roi Et, Lampang, Lamphun, Loei and Sisaket. Prime Minister Paetongtarn, at her first Cabinet meeting, announced the creation of a new committee to manage and mitigate the impacts of flooding, storms, and landslides. A new centre will also be established to assist victims of these natural disasters. The Thai premier emphasised the importance of engaging in serious dialogue with neighbouring countries in the Mekong River basin, including Myanmar, to enhance water management cooperation through the Greater Mekong Subregion mechanism. “We need to strengthen our cooperation with neighbouring countries to tackle water management issues effectively and prevent future flooding.” As torrential rains are expected from today to September 21, The 38 year old Thai PM revealed all relevant agencies have been instructed to ensure their disaster warning systems are functional and that residents in flood-prone areas receive timely alerts, reported Bangkok Post. The premier stressed, “It is crucial to have efficient warning systems in place to ensure the safety of our citizens during these challenging times.” by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-18

Jirayu Houngsub to become new Thailand govt spokesperson by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Jirayu Houngsub, previously a spokesperson for the Ministry of Defence, is on course to become the new government spokesperson next week. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338479-jirayu-houngsub-to-become-new-thailand-govt-spokesperson/

Jirayu Houngsub, previously a spokesperson for the Ministry of Defence, is on course to become the new government spokesperson next week. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra appointed Jirayu as her public relations adviser yesterday while his credentials are further scrutinised. The screening process for political appointees intensified due to a surge in ethics-related complaints. The Pheu Thai Party and PM Paetongtarn are currently dealing with at least 12 complaints concerning appointments and other matters. Last month, the court-ordered removal of Srettha Thavisin from the premier’s position was triggered by the appointment of a Cabinet minister with a tainted record. Traditionally, police only checked the criminal records of candidates for such roles, while the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) and the Council of State verified other qualifications. Now, additional checks are conducted by various agencies, including the Anti-Money Laundering Office (Amlo), the Constitutional Court, the Legal Execution Department, the Office of the Narcotics Control Board, the Office of the Auditor General, and the Securities and Exchange Commission. As the PR adviser to the premier, Jirayu will initially focus on promoting government initiatives before his official appointment as the government spokesperson, reported Bangkok Post. Yesterday, September 17, six additional individuals were appointed as advisers to the prime minister: Chaikasem Nitisiri, Yuttapong Charasathien, Suwat Liptapanlop, Songkram Kitlertphairoj, Jakkapong Sangmanee, and Thitiwat Adisornphankul. In related news, the Cabinet appointed Ansit Samphantharat as the new permanent secretary of the Ministry of Interior, effective October 1. He will succeed Suttipong Juljarern, who retired at the end of August. Ansit currently serves as the director of the Department of Provincial Administration within the ministry. His appointment came alongside the approval of Supachai Pathumnakul as the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation. Supachai is presently the Deputy Permanent Secretary. In other news, a ruling party loyalist and critic of the central bank governor is set to be nominated as the chair of the Bank of Thailand, as the government seeks to assert influence over the institution amid ongoing disputes over interest rates. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-18

Thai military faces renewed bribery allegations involving US firm by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Allegations of transnational bribery involving the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) have resurfaced, prompting responses from top officials. Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai acknowledged the persistent issue, stating that bribery has long plagued the military. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338478-thai-military-faces-renewed-bribery-allegations-involving-us-firm/

Allegations of transnational bribery involving the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) have resurfaced, prompting responses from top officials. Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai acknowledged the persistent issue, stating that bribery has long plagued the military. “It’s been around for a long time.” Phumtham, addressing the recent claims of kickbacks allegedly paid by a US company to the RTAF, admitted he has yet to examine the details of the latest allegations, adding that his immediate focus is on directing military relief operations for flood victims in the north and northeast regions. The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has committed to investigating reports suggesting that Deere, a US-based agricultural and construction equipment firm, paid bribes to secure contracts with the RTAF, the Department of Highways (DoH), and the Department of Rural Roads. This commitment from the NACC follows Deere’s agreement to pay US$9.93 million (approximately 336 million baht) to settle charges by the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The charges indicated that Deere’s Thai subsidiary, Wirtgen Thailand, bribed state agencies to win procurement contracts. The NACC highlighted that this case of international bribery is of significant public interest. The commission is actively gathering information and coordinating with the SEC to ensure thorough investigation and prosecution of any officials found to have accepted bribes. RTAF chief ACM Panpakdee Pattanakul confirmed the RTAF’s awareness of the reports, noting that the alleged bribes were paid between 2019 and 2020. Yesterday, September 17, Phumtham emphasised the existence of agencies dedicated to handling corruption cases involving state officials and political office holders. The Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC) deals with graft related to state officials, while the NACC addresses corruption among public office holders, reported Bangkok Post. “They must be given a free hand to do their jobs. The Defence Ministry will not interfere with the investigation process.” While addressing the broader issue of military procurement projects, Phumtham expressed uncertainty about continuing the initiatives started by his predecessor, Sutin Klungsang. He stated that procurement projects, including those for Gripen fighter jets and submarines, will be revisited after addressing the immediate flooding emergency. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-18

Phuket Airport skips memorial for One-Two-Go crash victims again by Bob Scott The Airports of Thailand (AoT) once again dodged the chance to hold an official memorial service in Phuket for the 90 victims of the One-Two-Go Flight OG269 disaster. This marks the 17th consecutive year that local officials have avoided organising any remembrance ceremonies for one of Thailand’s deadliest air crashes. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338477-phuket-airport-skips-memorial-for-one-two-go-crash-victims-again/

The Airports of Thailand (AoT) once again dodged the chance to hold an official memorial service in Phuket for the 90 victims of the One-Two-Go Flight OG269 disaster. This marks the 17th consecutive year that local officials have avoided organising any remembrance ceremonies for one of Thailand’s deadliest air crashes. On the anniversary of the tragedy, Monchai Tanode, General Manager at Phuket International Airport, took part in World Ozone Day events and attended a meeting with the Economic and Business Research Centre at Siam Commercial Bank. The meeting covered macroeconomic research, impact analysis, and passenger growth trends at the airport. Tanode also honoured retiring staff with bouquets in a separate ceremony. The One-Two-Go Flight 269 crash occurred on September 16, 2007, during an attempted go-around after an aborted landing in heavy rain and strong crosswinds—conditions strikingly similar to those in Phuket yesterday. The McDonnell Douglas MD-82, carrying 123 passengers and seven crew members on a flight from Bangkok to Phuket, crashed into a runway embankment and erupted in flames after ground control ordered a go-around. Out of the 130 people on board, 89 died at the scene, with one survivor later succumbing to burn injuries in hospital. Forty others survived but were injured. The passengers included nationals from Thailand, the UK, France, Australia, Canada, and other countries. Following damning safety reports, budget airline One-Two-Go was shut down by its parent company, Orient Thai, on October 9, 2018, reported Phuket News. Today, September 18, local rescue worker Chukiat Ayuperm, head of the Kusoldharm Foundation Phuket’s Thepkrasattri branch and a volunteer with the Pitakkarn Foundation, shared his own tribute to the tragic event that rocked Thailand, posting photos of the rescue efforts at the scene. “I remember the chaos and devastation vividly. It’s something you can never forget.” Picture courtesy @OnDisasters Picture of the wreckage from the One-Two-Go crash courtesy of Phuket News TOP Picture courtesy of Phuket News Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-18

Ang Thong official paid full salary for decade without working by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A local government officer in Ang Thong has reportedly received a full salary and bonuses for 10 years without ever showing up for work, due to his side job as a night-time musician. The revelations were made by the popular Facebook page, Watchdog, which often exposes irregularities in government agencies. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338475-ang-thong-official-paid-full-salary-for-decade-without-working/