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Thailand raises alarm on online child sexual harassment surge by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand’s National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) raised alarms about the severe impact of sexual harassment on social media on children and young people. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338381-thailand-raises-alarm-on-online-child-sexual-harassment-surge/

Thailand’s National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) raised alarms about the severe impact of sexual harassment on social media on children and young people. A recent social outlook report from the NESDC, released yesterday, indicates that victims of such harassment risk developing a range of social, emotional, and mental health problems, including anxiety and depression. In some cases, these traumas have led to criminal behaviour. ECPAT International, an organisation affiliated with UNICEF, identified Thailand as one of the 25 countries with alarming levels of online sexual harassment against children and youth. This is in line with data from the Royal Thai Police, which reports a significant increase in child sexual abuse cases, rising from 48 in 2017 to 540 last year. The NESDC categorises online sexual harassment against children into three levels. Low-level harassment often involves perpetrators who do not see their actions as harmful, such as making sexually suggestive comments about school-aged children. Moderate-level harassment involves repeated actions intended to cause emotional distress, such as persistent harassment, attempts to humiliate the victims, and invading personal privacy gradually. Severe or high-level harassment includes violent and aggressive actions that cause significant emotional and psychological harm. This level violates sexual abuse laws and includes luring minors into romantic relationships, coercing them into sexual acts, recording these acts without consent, and exploiting the victims by charging people to view these recordings. A UNICEF report from 2022 highlighted that many young people do not know how to seek help if they or their friends experience online sexual abuse. Some do not see themselves as victims, while others are too shy to report it, leading to underreporting of these crimes, according to the NESDC. The NESDC emphasises the need for immediate measures to address this problem. Family members should closely monitor their children’s use of social media, and both the government and communities need to implement stringent measures to punish perpetrators. Education providers and communities must also play a role in educating people about their rights, the risks of online sexual harassment, and the evolving nature of online threats. The NESDC suggests that families should teach their children how to protect personal information, and that education providers should incorporate lessons on dealing with sexual grooming into their curricula, reported Bangkok Post. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-17

Thailand to revive 300-baht tourism tax to boost revenue by Bob Scott Tourism Minister Sorawong Thienthong reignited plans for a 300-baht tourism tax, which was put on ice by former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. The move is set to help rake in a whopping 3 trillion baht in tourism revenue this year. Sorawong, who stepped into his role yesterday, September 16, believes the tax will be a game-changer for the industry. “This fee is crucial for the growth of our tourism sector. It will fund better infrastructure, enhance attractions, and ensure the safety of tourists.” Originally given the green light by the cabinet in 2022, the tax still awaits its official nod in the Royal Gazette. Travellers flying into Thailand will face a 300-baht charge, while those arriving by sea or land will pay 150 baht. Sorawong mentioned that more time is needed to fine-tune the system before it could be rolled out, potentially in the final quarter of the year. The aim is to ensure the tax doesn’t put off visitors. As the third tourism minister in a year under the Pheu Thai-led government, Sorawong will continue the Ignite Tourism Thailand policy started by Srettha. This includes plans for new entertainment hubs, an aviation centre, and a push to promote second-tier cities. “We’re determined to support new attractions and boost secondary cities. We’ll offer incentives like tax breaks to attract private investment.” High Season The ministry is also looking at reviving successful pandemic-era stimulus schemes, such as the We Travel Together programme, which subsidised hotel stays and flights. With the High Season approaching, Sorawong is banking on events like marathons, Loy Krathong, and New Year’s celebrations to help hit the 3 trillion baht revenue target from both domestic and international visitors. Although the government has a four-year goal to generate 3 trillion baht solely from foreign tourists, Sorawong is confident they’ll meet this ambitious target. On the topic of attracting a Formula One race to Thailand, Sorawong backed the idea but suggested a street circuit on Ratchadamnoen Road could offer a more unique boost to the economy. Addressing the issue of price-dumping tours, Sorawong acknowledged that while the number of illegal operators may not have risen, the financial impact is expected to be larger. Measures are being put in place to tackle these illicit practices. Tomorrow, Sorawong will meet with 20 key private tourism operators, including the Association of Thai Travel Agents and the Tourism Council of Thailand, to hash out new tourism policies. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-17

Tourism Minister Aims to Levy 300-Baht Fee for Visitors File photo for reference only Thailand's newly appointed Tourism Minister, Sorawong Thienthong, is set to revive the previously shelved 300-baht tourism tax, aiming to enhance tourism revenue to at least 3 trillion baht this year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338380-tourism-minister-aims-to-levy-300-baht-fee-for-visitors/

Thailand's newly appointed Tourism Minister, Sorawong Thienthong, is set to revive the previously shelved 300-baht tourism tax, aiming to enhance tourism revenue to at least 3 trillion baht this year. "I believe the collection of the tourism fee benefits the tourism industry, as the revenue can be used for infrastructure development and ensuring tourist safety," remarked Thienthong, who took office recently. The tourism tax proposal, initially approved by the cabinet in 2022, mandates that foreign arrivals by air will pay 300 baht, while those entering by sea and land will be charged 150 baht. However, the scheme has yet to be endorsed via publication in the Royal Gazette. Thienthong stated that the ministry needs more time to assess the system's readiness before deciding on implementing the tax within this year's final quarter. The minister emphasised that the collection procedure would be finalised in a manner that does not discourage tourists. He is also keen to continue the "Ignite Tourism Thailand" initiatives introduced by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, which include developing entertainment complexes, aviation hubs, and second-tier cities. "We will encourage the private sector to invest more by offering incentives, such as tax breaks," Thienthong added, referring to plans for new man-made attractions and promoting second-tier cities. Tourism stimulus programmes, similar to the successful We Travel Together co-payment scheme for hotel rooms and air tickets during the pandemic, may also return to ensure income distribution to locals. The upcoming high season events, like marathons, Loy Krathong, and the New Year countdown, are anticipated to boost revenue to the target of 3 trillion baht from both domestic and international markets. The minister remains committed to the long-term goal of achieving 3 trillion baht from foreign markets alone within the government’s four-year term. Additionally, he supports the idea of hosting a Formula One motor racing event in Thailand, suggesting a street circuit on Ratchadamnoen Road to reflect the country's unique character. Thienthong also addressed concerns about price-dumping tours, stating that while the number of illegal companies might not have increased, the economic losses are potentially greater. He has ordered authorities to curb such activities. To discuss tourism policies further, Thienthong will meet with 20 private tourism operators, including the Association of Thai Travel Agents and the Tourism Council of Thailand, soon, reported Bangkok Post. TOP File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-17

Digital Wallet Registration Results for Smartphone Users Indefinitely Delayed Picture courtesy: NBT World The Ministry of Finance has announced an indefinite delay in releasing the registration results for smartphone users under the “Digital Wallet” project. Originally scheduled for September 22, the release was postponed due to concerns about potential overlap with vulnerable groups, such as state welfare card recipients. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338379-digital-wallet-registration-results-for-smartphone-users-indefinitely-delayed/

The Ministry of Finance has announced an indefinite delay in releasing the registration results for smartphone users under the “Digital Wallet” project. Originally scheduled for September 22, the release was postponed due to concerns about potential overlap with vulnerable groups, such as state welfare card recipients. Registration for the 10,000-baht top-up program through the “Tang Rath” digital wallet application ran from August 1 to September 15. However, the Ministry explained that it now needs to ensure that the first phase of payments—targeting 14.5 million vulnerable individuals, including state welfare cardholders and people with disabilities—is completed without duplication. These payments are set to begin on September 25. Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat clarified that the delay is necessary to thoroughly review the registration data, as some vulnerable individuals may have also registered via smartphones. The Ministry is working to verify eligibility and prevent any overlap between the two phases, reported NNT. In addition to postponing the smartphone registration results, the Ministry has delayed the registration process for non-smartphone users, which was initially scheduled to start today (September 16). Registration for non-smartphone users will now take place at a later date through the Government Savings Bank (GSB), the Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives (BAAC), and the Government Housing Bank (GH Bank). Picture courtesy: NBT World -- 2024-09-17

Thai residents flooded with massive bills, demand monthly relief by Bob Scott Residents of Bua Yai in Nakhon Ratchasima are fuming over eye-watering water bills running into tens of thousands of baht, courtesy of a two-year billing cycle enforced by Bua Yai Municipality. Furious locals are demanding an immediate switch to monthly billing to ease their financial strain. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338377-thai-residents-flooded-with-massive-bills-demand-monthly-relief/

Residents of Bua Yai in Nakhon Ratchasima are fuming over eye-watering water bills running into tens of thousands of baht, courtesy of a two-year billing cycle enforced by Bua Yai Municipality. Furious locals are demanding an immediate switch to monthly billing to ease their financial strain. Today, September 16, the story of 57 year old Busakorn Changkrian brought the issue into the spotlight. Presenting her monster bill to the media, Busakorn sought justice and relief. The offending document, issued by the Bua Yai Municipality’s Waterworks Department, slapped her with a staggering charge of over 11,595 baht accrued over two years. Advertisements Busakorn, who runs a humble eatery from a rented shophouse, explained her usage: water for washing dishes, laundry, and other daily essentials. Initially, municipal workers would diligently record and collect water usage fees every month. But for the past two years, no one showed up to take meter readings, leaving her bewildered and in the dark. “I nearly fainted when I got a bill for two years’ worth of water usage totalling 11,595 baht. I don’t know where I’ll get the money to pay for this. The municipality must revert to monthly billing. Collecting fees every two years is a colossal financial burden.” Busakorn recalled her attempts to get answers from the Provincial Waterworks Authority. Officials told her that residents were now expected to record their water usage and pay up accordingly. Confused by the sudden change and unsure how to accurately log her water consumption, Busakorn ended up with a crippling bill. The shock bill has caused significant distress for Busakorn and other residents caught in the same bind. Many are living hand to mouth, and a sudden demand for a hefty sum of money is both impractical and overwhelming. In response to this financial fiasco, Busakorn and her fellow residents are urging the Bua Yai Municipality’s Waterworks Authority to bring back monthly meter readings and billing. They argue this change is crucial for managing their finances effectively and avoiding future shock-and-awe billing experiences. The tiny town of Bua Yai is boiling over, and desperate residents hope their voices will be heard loud and clear, demanding a fair and manageable billing system. by Bob Scott Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-17

Pakistani Tourist Robbed by Scam Artists During First Pattaya Visit A Pakistani tailor was left devastated after being robbed during his first visit to Pattaya, within hours of his arrival. On September 16th, Mr. Farrukh U, a 33-year-old Pakistani national, filed a complaint with Police Lieutenant Colonel Chonwit Athiphansee of Pattaya City Police Station after thieves tricked him and stole $900 USD (approximately 30,000 THB) from his wallet. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338376-pakistani-tourist-robbed-by-scam-artists-during-first-pattaya-visit/

A Pakistani tailor was left devastated after being robbed during his first visit to Pattaya, within hours of his arrival. On September 16th, Mr. Farrukh U, a 33-year-old Pakistani national, filed a complaint with Police Lieutenant Colonel Chonwit Athiphansee of Pattaya City Police Station after thieves tricked him and stole $900 USD (approximately 30,000 THB) from his wallet. The incident occurred at Jomtien Beach, Nong Prue Subdistrict, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi. Mr. Farrukh revealed that this was his first time visiting Pattaya, and just a few hours after his arrival, two men, resembling South Asians, approached him while he was strolling along Jomtien Beach. They struck up a conversation and pretended to be friendly, asking to see his country’s currency notes. While one of them distracted him with small talk, the other secretly emptied his wallet. After handing the wallet back, the men quickly fled. Sensing something was wrong, Mr. Uzair checked his wallet and discovered that all his money had been stolen. He promptly reported the incident to the police. In response, Police Lieutenant Colonel Chonwit Athiphansee coordinated with the local investigation team and tourist police to gather evidence from witnesses and security cameras in the area in hopes of tracking down the perpetrators and bringing them to justice. -- 2024-09-17

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Tuesday 17 September 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338375-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-tuesday-17-september-2024/

NEWS - 17-September.mp4 Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has pledged to speed up compensation for flood victims and establish a new emergency alert system. She noted that current payments don't match the damage and called for revised criteria to increase compensation. A budget will be allocated for a "cell broadcast service," an alert system which will be launched next year. A hospital in Samut Sakhon will compensate two families after admitting to giving them the wrong babies following treatment last month. a Thai baby was given to a Myanmar family and vice versa due to a mix-up after nurses cut and swapped the babys wristbands during bathing. The parents requested DNA tests, which confirmed the mistake. The hospital accepted it had been negligent and will compensate the families by providing free medical services for both children.. The minister of Foreign Affairs held talks with Myanmar authorities to find mutual ways to reduce the flood situation in the region. Both sides discussed technical details to determine suitable areas that could be turned into catchment areas. Meanwhile, Strong winds and rain swept across the south, bringing flash floods. Authorities in Phuket evacuated a small group of residents from high-risk areas due to continuous flash floods. Fearing another landslide. 17 people spent last night in a local Temple. Across the region China: Emergency workers cleared fallen trees and other debris from Shanghai's streets after the strongest storm to hit the Chinese megacity since 1949 disrupted transport and left more than 30 thousand housholds without power. A 27 year old Hong Kong man yesterday pleaded guilty to sedition for wearing a T-shirt with a protest slogan, becoming the first person convicted under the city's new national security law passed in March. the maximum sentence for the offence has been increased from two to seven years in prison and could go up to 10 years if "collusion with foreign forces" was found involved. Todays Weather Chiang Mai and the north: Thundershowers 32C degrees celsiusBangkok: Thunderstorms 34 Pattaya: thundershowers 31 Phuket and the south: continuing thundershowers 28C Hua Hin: Sunny becoming cloudy with an isolated shower this afternoon 33C 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 2024-09-17 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5

Miss Grand Chiang Mai Runner-Up Crashes Sedan: 4 Injured, 3 Motorcycles Wrecked Picture courtesy: Daily News "Lada Napasorn Phankasem," the runner-up Miss Grand Chiang Mai 2020, was involved in a car accident where she hit three motorcycles and injured four pedestrians. The incident happened in the Huai Khwang area of Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338373-miss-grand-chiang-mai-runner-up-crashes-sedan-4-injured-3-motorcycles-wrecked/

"Lada Napasorn Phankasem," the runner-up Miss Grand Chiang Mai 2020, was involved in a car accident where she hit three motorcycles and injured four pedestrians. The incident happened in the Huai Khwang area of Bangkok. The police took her in for a breathalyzer test, but no alcohol was found. The Huai Khwang district police chief shared that they planned to send an investigator to the hospital to take statements from the injured, who are currently in stable condition. On September 16, reporters noted the incident occurred the previous day, September 15. Huai Khwang police were alerted about the accident between Soi Pracha Uthit 10-12 on Pracha Uthit Road. Upon arrival, they discovered three damaged motorcycles and four injured people: Mr. Prasit, Ms. Wipawan, Mr. Natthapak, and an unnamed individual. Good Samaritans had already taken the injured to the hospital. Nearby, officers found a black Deport S07 car with a damaged front left bumper. The driver was 28-year-old Napasorn Phankasem, also known as "Lada," the 2020 Miss Grand Chiang Mai runner-up and 2019 second runner-up Miss Grand Chiang Rai. She waited to give her statement to the police, reported Daily News. According to the investigation, Ms. Lada was driving at high speed from the Meng Chai intersection towards Pracha Uthit Soi 8 when she hit the parked motorcycles, injuring pedestrians as well. She was taken to Huai Khwang police station for questioning and an initial alcohol test, which was negative. Picture courtesy: Daily News At 3 PM on September 16, the injured individuals' families visited Police Colonel Prasopchok Iamphinit at the Huai Khwang station to get an update on the case. Police Col. Prasopchok said that three of the four injured were discharged on the first day, while the fourth, who had rib pain, was expected to leave the hospital by the end of that day. Ms. Napasorn, the driver, also reported chest pain and was receiving treatment at a hospital. As for the investigation, two statements have been taken from the victims. Two other injured individuals, aged 18 and younger, will be questioned with a multidisciplinary team the following day. Ms. Napasorn is still hospitalized, and investigators plan to visit her for further questioning. TOP Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-09-17

Thailand-Based Networks Behind Major Crimes in Sweden 600 gang members control crime in Sweden from abroad. Picture courtesy: sverigesradio A startling police report has revealed that approximately 600 criminals, many of them operating from countries like Thailand, are at the helm of substantial criminal activities in Sweden. This wide-reaching influence encompasses drug trafficking, violent crimes, fraud, and money laundering, as disclosed in a report by Ekot. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338368-thailand-based-networks-behind-major-crimes-in-sweden/

A startling police report has revealed that approximately 600 criminals, many of them operating from countries like Thailand, are at the helm of substantial criminal activities in Sweden. This wide-reaching influence encompasses drug trafficking, violent crimes, fraud, and money laundering, as disclosed in a report by Ekot. Thailand, in particular, has emerged as a significant stronghold for these criminal networks. Swedish police officer Håkan Wall underscored their considerable impact on Sweden's criminal landscape. “They have a substantial impact on what is happening in Sweden, both when it comes to drug smuggling and violence,” Wall told Sveriges Radio. Authorities have identified about 100 individuals within this group as having the most significant influence over crime in Sweden. These key players are not only based in Thailand but also in Spain, North Africa, the Middle East, and Turkey. Their geographical dispersion presents daunting challenges for Swedish law enforcement, reported ScandAsia. The complexity of the situation is compounded by international legal barriers. Many of these criminals hold citizenship in other countries, complicating efforts to extradite and arrest them. Wall acknowledged these difficulties, stating, “We have very good prospects of arresting some, but others will take more work.” The report sheds light on the intricate and often frustrating process of pursuing justice across borders. The ability to apprehend and prosecute these criminals is hampered by the legal frameworks of their host countries. Extradition processes from countries like Thailand are notoriously lengthy and complicated, creating significant obstacles for Swedish authorities. This revelation prompts serious questions about international cooperation in tackling global criminal networks. The Swedish police's findings call for an intensified focus on collaboration between nations to address the complex web of international crime effectively. Weeks ahead will likely see Sweden ramping up diplomatic and legal efforts to bring these powerful criminals to justice, underscoring the need for a unified global approach to crime control. Source: Sveriges Radio TOP: 600 gang members control crime in Sweden from abroad. Picture courtesy: sverigesradio -- 2024-09-17

Ukrainian Woman and Friend Report Motorcycle Rental Scam in Pattaya as Bikes Are Taken Across Thai Border By Aim Tanakorn A Ukrainian woman and her friend reported a motorcycle rental scam in Pattaya after discovering their rental bikes were stolen and taken across Thailand’s border. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338364-ukrainian-woman-and-friend-report-motorcycle-rental-scam-in-pattaya/

A Ukrainian woman and her friend reported a motorcycle rental scam in Pattaya after discovering their rental bikes were stolen and taken across Thailand’s border. The victim, Ms. Kateryna of Ukrainian nationality, along with her unidentified friend, presented surveillance camera footage from their motorbike rental shop and filed a complaint with Pattaya police. They claimed that the customers who had rented their motorcycles failed to return them and allegedly took the bikes across the border to Thailand’s neighboring country. Ms. Kateryna explained that on August 9th, the suspect, Mr. Santipap Sainon, rented an ADV 160cc motorcycle from her shop. He came with a woman and a young girl, rented the motorcycle for one week, and paid 4,400 baht, including 2,400 baht for the rental and 2,000 baht for the deposit. By Aim Tanakorn Source: THE PATTAYA NEWS -- 2024-09-17

Polling Agency Petitioned to Probe PM’s Mini-Heart Gesture In an unusual development, serial petitioner Ruangkrai Leekitwattana has urged the Election Commission to investigate Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and several cabinet ministers for making a mini-heart gesture while donning their official uniforms. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338363-polling-agency-petitioned-to-probe-pm’s-mini-heart-gesture/

File photo In an unusual development, serial petitioner Ruangkrai Leekitwattana has urged the Election Commission to investigate Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and several cabinet ministers for making a mini-heart gesture while donning their official uniforms. The gesture, captured during a group photo at Government House on September 7, has sparked debates about its appropriateness in an official setting. Ruangkrai, known for his rigorous petitions, had earlier approached the National Anti-Corruption Commission on the same matter reported INN News, September 16. He contends that the PM's actions may breach ethical standards outlined in the Constitution, specifically citing Section 17, paragraph two of Section 27, Section 170 (5), and Section 160 (4) (5). According to Ruangkrai, such breaches warrant forwarding the case to the Supreme Court for a final ruling. Adding weight to his argument, Deputy Prime Minister and Energy Minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga made a notable comment during a TV Channel 8 interview on September 10. He declared that performing the mini-heart gesture while wearing a government uniform is not permissible, stating, "It is not ugly or disgusting; it’s about the government uniform. I had mentioned this earlier." Pirapan, who leads the Ruam Thai Sang Chart Party and is closely allied with former Prime Minister and current Privy Councillor Prayut Chan-o-cha, reinforced the gravity of Ruangkrai's petition. According to Pirapan, the rigid decorum expected in official settings was disregarded when the Prime Minister first made the gesture, prompting other ministers, including Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, and Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit, to follow suit. The so-called "Korean finger heart" gesture, popularised by K-pop idols in the 1990s, involves forming a small heart shape by snapping the thumb and index finger together. While a benign symbol of love and gratitude among fans, its use in a formal governmental context has now led to serious scrutiny. This incident has opened a broader debate about the interplay between cultural expressions and official decorum, and whether such gestures have a place in governmental conduct. With the Election Commission now petitioned, the coming weeks will reveal whether this seemingly innocuous act holds any consequences for the country's top leadership. -- 2024-09-17

Violent Brawl Between Drunk Australian Tourists Unfolds in Pattaya On the evening of September 15, Soi Buakhao in Central Pattaya was the scene of a shocking and violent altercation between two inebriated Australian tourists. This confrontation, which unfolded in front of a stunned crowd, underscores the growing problem of public disorder in the area. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338362-violent-brawl-between-drunk-australian-tourists-shocks-pattaya/

On the evening of September 15, Soi Buakhao in Central Pattaya was the scene of a shocking and violent altercation between two inebriated Australian tourists. This confrontation, which unfolded in front of a stunned crowd, underscores the growing problem of public disorder in the area. The fracas erupted between the two men, both heavily intoxicated, one of whom claimed to be a police officer while flashing a badge. This dubious assertion did nothing to quell the situation. Instead, it highlighted a disturbing trend of disorderly behaviour among some tourists, undermining local authority. By the time the local police arrived, the situation had escalated with the two men resistant to any attempts to restore calm. Officers struggled for over 30 minutes to control the belligerent tourists, showcasing the challenges of maintaining public safety amid such volatile incidents. Local residents and bystanders proved instrumental in eventually separating the fighting men. However, the scene took an even darker turn when one of the tourists launched into a tirade of profanities directed at the police. The incident paints a broader picture of some visitors' reckless behaviour and their blatant disrespect for local laws and enforcement. Eyewitnesses noted that the two men had been drinking together earlier in the evening, indicating a prior relationship that devolved into conflict. Strikingly, neither party chose to press charges, reflecting an unsettling acceptance of such brawls as typical rather than criminal. Residents have expressed concern over the increasing frequency of such disturbances. “This is becoming a regular occurrence,” one local commented. “It raises serious questions about the effectiveness of local law enforcement in managing public order.” As these incidents become more common, it's clear that Pattaya faces significant challenges in addressing the root causes of this rampant disorder. Without meaningful intervention, the city’s reputation risk becoming synonymous with such disruptive behaviour, overshadowing its appeal as a holiday destination, reported Pattaya Mail. -- 2024-09-17

to continue: Thailand Live Tuesday 17 September 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1338361-thailand-live-tuesday-17-september-2024/

The Samyan Smart City project in central Bangkok is advancing, with significant efforts focused on relocating overhead power and communication cables underground, according to the Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA). Samyan Smart City buries cables to enhance energy solutions Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338341-samyan-smart-city-buries-cables-to-enhance-energy-solutions/