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Khao Yai National Park Enforces Stricter Wildlife Protection Rules Picture courtesy: Amarin TV Chaiya Huaihongthong, the chief of Khao Yai National Park, announced the implementation of new stringent measures to preserve the park’s delicate ecosystem. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337698-khao-yai-national-park-enforces-stricter-wildlife-protection-rules/

Picture courtesy: Amarin TV Chaiya Huaihongthong, the chief of Khao Yai National Park, announced the implementation of new stringent measures to preserve the park’s delicate ecosystem. Situated in the Pak Chong district, Nakhon Ratchasima, the park will now have inspection points on Thanarat Road to monitor exhaust noise and vehicle speeds. These initiatives come in response to rising concerns over PM 2.5 dust pollution and the need to maintain the park's pristine air quality. "We have coordinated efforts to set up checkpoints to measure noise levels and vehicle speeds for both cars and motorcycles entering and exiting the park," Chaiya explained. Under the new regulations, vehicles are prohibited from exceeding 95 decibels in noise and must adhere to a speed limit of 60 kilometres per hour. These regulations align with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment’s standards to ensure pollution-free air, safeguarding both wildlife and visitors from noise disturbances. "We are serious about enforcing these rules to protect wildlife and visitors from noise disturbances," Chaiya added. A worrying trend has been identified where some motorcyclists and motorists temporarily block exhaust noise using steel wool, only to remove these makeshift buffers once outside the park. This practice endangers wildlife, as discarded steel wool can be ingested by animals such as wild elephants. Several vehicles have already been fined for breaching the 95-decibel noise limit. Khao Yai National Park mandates that all entering vehicles must have exhaust systems devoid of smoke and excessive noise, as per legal limits. Loud exhausts not only disturb the serene environment but also pose a threat to the wellbeing of wildlife. Visitors are urged to comply with these rules to help maintain a pollution-free environment, beneficial for both humans and animals. Chaiya stressed that the park’s objective is to preserve Khao Yai as a beautiful, healthy destination. To this end, the park’s regulations emphasize : don't drive fast, don't make loud noises, don't litter, don’t feed the animals, and don’t bring pets into the park. The park chief’s firm stance underscores the importance of abiding by these guidelines for the long-term preservation of Khao Yai National Park. -- 2024-09-09 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai doctor vows to create "Hitler Room" to gas hospital smokers On September 8, 2024, it was reported that Major General Dr. Reienthong Nanna, Director of Mongkutwattana Hospital, posted on his Facebook page, stating: Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337695-thai-doctor-vows-to-create-hitler-room-to-gas-hospital-smokers/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath THAILAND - On September 8, 2024, it was reported that Major General Dr. Reienthong Nanna, Director of Mongkutwattana Hospital, posted on his Facebook page, stating: "I plan to repurpose the 'public phone booths' that were donated for COVID-19 screening during the 2020-2022 pandemic. These booths are no longer in use and would otherwise become waste. I will turn them into an innovation called 'Smoke Rooms' for those who break the no-smoking rule at Mongkutwattana Hospital. Smokers can smoke as much as they want inside these rooms, but the smoke will remain contained. It won’t disturb others or harm public health, only the smoker's health, reported Thai Rath. The cigarette smoke will continuously circulate inside the 'Smoke Room' until it's fully consumed. The door, controlled by an automatic smoke sensor, will unlock only after the smoke has cleared, allowing the smoker to exit. This ensures that smokers inhale 100% of their own cigarette smoke, maximizing the experience of each cigarette they smoke. Not a single bit of smoke will escape to disturb or harm anyone else. While this 'Smoke Room' innovation may seem harsh, it ensures no one smokes inside Mongkutwattana Hospital. If someone avoids our hospital because of this strict anti-smoking measure, I would be more than happy. Dr. Reienthong also mentioned he would name this 'Smoke Room' the 'Hitler Room.' (ห้องฮิตเลอร์) He warned that anyone caught smoking selfishly in the hospital, harming others, will face public shaming by hospital volunteers and 'Black Hooded' individuals. He emphasized that this is not a joke and that they are serious. Major General Dr. Reienthong Nanna, Director of Mongkutwattana Hospital—a hospital committed to civility, safety, being smoke-free, and free from troublemakers —September 8, 2024, at 10:35 AM. Note: The 'Smoke Room' or 'Hitler Room' will be showcased to the public once it is ready, as a deterrent for non-smokers." -- 2024-09-09 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

PM Paetongtarn to Conduct Weekly Progress Reviews Picture courtesy: National News Bureau of Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is introducing weekly meetings with her ministers to closely monitor and evaluate the progress of her government’s initiatives. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337693-pm-paetongtarn-to-conduct-weekly-progress-reviews/

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is introducing weekly meetings with her ministers to closely monitor and evaluate the progress of her government’s initiatives. Following a special Cabinet meeting, she highlighted the importance of continuous assessment and coordination to ensure timely implementation of government policies. Paetongtarn also mentioned plans to present a public summary reviewing the first three months of her administration. She reassured the public and her Cabinet that a dedicated legal team is in place to address any legal challenges the government might face. Emphasizing her determination to fulfill the administration's full three-year term, she underlined the need for policy continuity and consistent collaboration with coalition partners from previous administrations. Paetongtarn avoided addressing comments about her father, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, focusing instead on the future direction of her government. When asked about the much-anticipated 10,000 baht digital wallet scheme, intended to boost the economy, she deferred details to Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat. Nonetheless, she reassured that immediate economic measures are a priority for her government. The weekly progress reviews aim to ensure that government projects and policies are on track, and to swiftly address any emerging issues. This approach reflects Paetongtarn's commitment to transparency and accountability, striving to maintain public trust by demonstrating visible action and results. Analysts believe these steps are crucial for building Paetongtarn’s political momentum and showing tangible achievements early in her term. The initial three-month review is expected to be a significant milestone, setting the tone for the remainder of her administration and providing the public with concrete evidence of progress. As Paetongtarn's government continues to navigate challenges and roll out key policies, the ongoing weekly reviews will serve as a cornerstone for operational efficiency and policy success, ensuring a responsive and dynamic governance model. Picture courtesy: National News Bureau of Thailand -- 2024-09-09 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Monday 9 September 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337691-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-monday-9-september-2024/

NEWS - 09-September.mp4 The minister of labour confirmed the daily minimum wage will rise to 400 baht on Oct 1st, despite concerns it could impact businesses. Companies with over 200 employees will receive a 1% discount on Social Security Fund contributions for a year. Meanwhile A business association president urged the government to provide tax breaks and exemptions to help the private sector until the economy recovers. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra announced over the weekend that her new government will immediately focus on stimulating the economy and will continue the policies of former premier Srettha Thavisin. She held a special cabinet meeting on Saturday to prepare for a presentation at a two-day parliamentary session on Thursday and Friday this week which will mark the official start of her administration. Drug enforcement officers arrested 2 suspected drug traffickers who were in possession of around 600 kilograms of ice methamphetamine in Chaiyaphum yesterday. The suspects are a 39, driver and 48 year old, who was driving another car, both were taken in for questioning. The Thailand Consumer Council backs a Transport department proposal to cap Bangkok train fares at 20 baht per trip. Their secretary general also recommended allocating a fair budget for public bus services in all provinces. Thaksin Shinawatra suggested the government set ticket prices and implement congestion charges for car users in the capital, using the revenue to subsidize public transport. Around the region Papua New Guinea: Pope Francis was flown deep into the jungle yesterday, where he held mass to a township of some 12,000 people with no running water and scarce electricity, his mission delivered medical supplies and other aid. Vietnam: Typhoon Yagi, Asia's most powerful storm this year, was downgraded to a tropical depression yesterday, after wreaking havoc in northern Vietnam, where it damaged factories and infrastructure. The meteorological agency cautioned about the ongoing risk of flooding and landslides as the storm, the strongest to hit the country in decades, Todays Weather That storm has dissipated and is just north of Thailand but is bringing heavy Rain and thunderstorms to the far north and north east 29C Chiang Mai and the north: cloudy 29C degrees celsius Bangkok: heavy rain and Thundershowers 33 Pattaya: Cloudy with showers 31 Phuket and the south: Cloudy with showers 30C Hua Hin: Cloudy, some showers 33C. 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 2024-09-09 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Paethongtarn Govt Expected to Last Full Term, Poll Indicates Picture courtesy: Thai Rath On September 8, 2024, the Super Poll Research Center released the results of a new survey regarding public opinion on Thailand's Paethongtarn Shinawatra government. Full. story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337690-paethongtarn-govt-expected-to-last-full-term-poll-indicates/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath On September 8, 2024, the Super Poll Research Center released the results of a new survey regarding public opinion on Thailand's Paethongtarn Shinawatra government. This study canvassed the views of 2,078 individuals from diverse professions across the nation between September 6-7, focusing on sentiments towards the new government and its capability to complete a full term. Among those surveyed, opinions varied significantly based on past voting patterns. Pheu Thai Party voters: - 81.2% expressed support for the new government. - 18.8% expressed disapproval. Voters of other parties: - 24.4% expressed support for the new government. - 75.6% expressed disapproval. When it comes to public confidence in Prime Minister Paethongtarn Shinawatra, distinct areas of strength were evident: Public Health Management: 42.6% expressed confidence. Tourism and Economic Recovery (Soft Power): 33.7% expressed confidence. Economic Issues and Cost of Living: 33.2% expressed confidence. Drug Problem Resolution: 25.3% expressed confidence. Cyber Security and Call Centre Fraud: 23.9% expressed confidence. Overall, public confidence in the longevity of Paethongtarn's government appears robust: - 62% felt somewhat to very confident that the administration would see out its full term. - 38% harboured little to no confidence. This feedback sets a clear mandate for the government, highlighting the people’s expectations in key areas such as public health and economic management. These insights can guide political strategies and inform policy decisions aimed at sustaining public support, reported Thai Rath. In essence, while the survey underscores a generally favourable outlook towards Paethongtarn’s leadership, it also suggests areas requiring further governmental focus, particularly in combating drug issues and enhancing cyber security. -- 2024-09-09 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Army Seizes 'Man U' Branded Drugs in Chiang Rai; 4x Increase Over Last Year Picture courtesy: Thai Rath The military announced they had seized "Man U" branded methamphetamine in Chiang Rai. This year, the amount of seized methamphetamine is four times more than in 2023. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337689-army-seizes-man-u-branded-drugs-in-chiang-rai 4x-increase-over-last-year/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath The military announced they had seized "Man U" branded methamphetamine in Chiang Rai. This year, the amount of seized methamphetamine is four times more than in 2023. Major General Praphat Phobsuwan, commander of the Pha Muang Task Force and director of the anti-drug operations center, along with ONCB Region 5, held a press conference at 10:30 AM on September 8, 2024. They discussed two drug-related incidents in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, seizing 2.3 million methamphetamine tablets and resulting in the deaths of six suspects. This year's methamphetamine seizures have increased by four times compared to 2023. The "Man U" label found on the methamphetamine is just a brand mark for a specific group of customers and holds no special significance. The first incident took place on September 5, 2024, when the 2nd Cavalry Company of the Tha Pha Daeng Task Force, conducting a patrol, noticed suspicious activity from 2-3 individuals near the forest at Ban Pha Taek, Mu 10, Wiang Phang Kham Sub-district, Mae Sai District, Chiang Rai. When officers approached, the suspects fired at them, leading to a five-minute exchange of gunfire. The suspects fled, and the officers then secured the area. The officers found five modified backpacks containing a total of 1,000,000 methamphetamine tablets. This quantity could have a street value of 150 million baht if it reached the inner regions of the country. The second incident occurred on September 6, 2024, involving the 3207 and 3209 Ranger Companies of the 3rd Army's Operations Center. They were patrolling Ban Huai Nam Yen, Mu 4, Tha Ton Sub-district, Mae Ai District, Chiang Mai, when they encountered 7 to 10 individuals carrying modified backpacks. After another firefight lasting about 10 minutes, resulting in the deaths of six suspects, officers found 13 modified backpacks containing a total of 1,300,000 methamphetamine tablets, a homemade shotgun, a homemade rifle, shotgun shells, and AK-47 shells. All evidence was handed over to Mae Ai Police Station. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Comparing last year's data, with 18 gunfights, resulting in 34 deaths and the seizure of 42,609,536 methamphetamine tablets worth 8.2 billion baht, this year's numbers are notably higher. From October 2022 to the present, there have been 432 incidents, 449 arrests, and the seizure of 186,152,547 methamphetamine tablets, 268.1 kg of heroin, 1,438.3 kg of ice (crystallized methamphetamine), 197.1 kg of opium, and 29.3 kg of ketamine, totaling 29.668 billion baht. There have been 49 gunfights resulting in 35 deaths, highlighting the significant increase in drug trafficking activity. The labelling of methamphetamine with the "Man U" symbol is merely for customer identification, similar to other symbols like "999" or "Apple." The authorities are continually working to curb drug trafficking, despite the challenging weather conditions and ongoing demands within the country. The situation is further exacerbated by instability in neighboring countries, leading to increased smuggling for financing and arming rebel groups. -- 2024-09-09 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Man Arrested for Stealing from Tourists on Ferry to Koh Larn Composite courtesy: Daily News Pattaya tourist police arrested a 52-year-old Thai man who was looking for victims on a ferry to Koh Larn. He would engage tourists in conversation before stealing their belongings. It was discovered that he had a long history of criminal activity. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337687-thai-man-arrested-for-stealing-from-tourists-on-ferry-to-koh-larn/

Composite courtesy: Daily News Pattaya tourist police arrested a 52-year-old Thai man who was looking for victims on a ferry to Koh Larn. He would engage tourists in conversation before stealing their belongings. It was discovered that he had a long history of criminal activity. On September 8th, around 10:30 AM, Pol. Lt. Col. Piyapong Aensan, the superintendent of Tourist Police Division 4, received a report of a theft involving a 37-year-old female tourist. Her iPhone had been stolen, and the suspect was described as a Thai man around 50 years old. The victim explained that while on the ferry to Koh Larn, a man around 50 years old sat next to her, initiated a conversation, and became friendly. Once they arrived at Tawean Beach on Koh Larn, she realized her iPhone was missing when she wanted to take a photo. She suspected the man and quickly reported to the tourist police. Officers then reviewed CCTV footage and identified the suspect as Somsak Buengnork, a 52-year-old man. They found him walking near Tawean Beach on Koh Larn and conducted a search, discovering the stolen iPhone in his bag. He admitted to the theft when confronted with the evidence. PIcture courtesy: Daily News Somsak was taken into custody along with the recovered phone and sent to Pattaya City Police Station for legal action. His criminal record showed multiple offenses, including child molestation in 2021, theft in Ratchaburi in 2021, and night-time theft in Pattaya in 2024. He had been involved in numerous criminal activities over the years. -- 2024-09-09 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Young Boy, Infamous for Prior Viral Vaping Video, Found Chained to Chair on Pattaya Beach By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya — An 11-year-old boy was found chained to a chair on Pattaya Beach by his father, who later tested positive for drugs. The boy was previously caught vaping on Walking Street. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337681-young-boy-infamous-for-prior-viral-vaping-video-found-chained-to-chair-on-pattaya-beach/

Pattaya — An 11-year-old boy was found chained to a chair on Pattaya Beach by his father, who later tested positive for drugs. The boy was previously caught vaping on Walking Street. On August 24th, 2024, a video was shared on social media showing a young boy smoking an e-cigarette in front of a nightclub on Walking Street. It was later revealed that the boy, named by authorities as Pangpond, is 11 years old and has a history of running away from home, leading his family to repeatedly search for him. Following these events, officials from the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (MSDHS) in Chonburi province took the boy into their care at a children’s shelter for evaluation and rehabilitation. However, according to the latest report, the boy’s family requested to take him back into their custody. On September 7th, 2024, prominent social activist Kan Jompalang (real name Mr. Kanthas Phongpaibulvej), along with his team, visited Pattaya Police Station to meet with Police Chief Pol. Col. Navin Theerawit. He requested police assistance after receiving a complaint about a boy, who was recognized as Pangpond, being chained to a chair by his guardian at Pattaya Beach, just a few hundred meters from the police station. Upon arriving at the beach, authorities found Pangpond’s parents renting out mats to tourists, while the boy was chained by his ankle to a camping chair. The police brought the family in for questioning. Kan Jompalang expressed concern over the situation, noting that Pattaya is a word-class tourist destination, and incidents like this could tarnish the city’s image. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS -- 2024-09-09 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

British Man in Pattaya Crashes Motorcycle into Sidecar, Driver Severely Injured By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya — A British man crashed his motorcycle into a sidecar in Pattaya, leaving the sidecar driver and a passenger critically injured. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337679-british-man-in-pattaya-crashes-motorcycle-into-sidecar-driver-severely-injured/

Pattaya — A British man crashed his motorcycle into a sidecar in Pattaya, leaving the sidecar driver and a passenger critically injured. At 4:30 AM on September 8th, 2024, Pattaya police received a report of a severe collision between a motorcycle and a sidecar in front of the Eakmongkol Village on Soi Chaiyaphruek 1 in the Nongprue sub-district, Banglamung district, Chonburi province. Police officers, along with rescue workers from the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Foundation, rushed to the scene. Upon arrival, authorities found motorcycle parts scattered across the road. In the middle of the street, a severely damaged sidecar motorcycle was discovered, with the driver, identified as Mr. Narong Thaesungnoen, 68, lying unconscious in a pool of blood. The Thai driver had suffered broken arms, a fractured left leg, and a large head wound. Nearby, a red Honda ADV 350cc motorcycle was found overturned and heavily damaged. The driver, Mr. Mikel (full name withheld by authorities), a 35-year-old British national, was bleeding profusely from a head injury. An unidentified Thai woman, who had been riding pillion on Mr. Mikel’s motorcycle, was also found in serious condition. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS -- 2024-09-09 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai PM's 'Mini Heart' Gesture Provokes Mixed Reactions Picture courtesy: Thai PBS Thailand, in a recent turn of events, saw Prime Minister Paetongtarn coming under the spotlight for unexpected reasons. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337678-thai-pms-mini-heart-gesture-provokes-mixed-reactions/

Thailand, in a recent turn of events, saw Prime Minister Paetongtarn coming under the spotlight for unexpected reasons. During an official photo shoot at Government House, PM Paetongtarn and her Cabinet members performed a “mini heart” hand gesture, leading to polarized reactions across social media. The moment took a swift turn when a government official pointed out the inappropriateness of the gesture given their formal attire. Surprised, Paetongtarn quickly lowered her hands. This fleeting incident has sparked a wave of discussions online. On platforms such as Facebook and X, many criticized the young Prime Minister's apparent lack of decorum, especially in her formal capacity. “She should have behaved better than this. She is now the leader of the country, no longer the youngest child in the family,” remarked one user, echoing the sentiments of several others. At 38, Paetongtarn holds the distinction of being the youngest Prime Minister in Thai history. She is also the daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and Khunying Potjaman Na Pombejra. While her rapid ascent to leadership has been attributed to her father's influence and political manoeuvring, her inexperience remains a topic of debate, reported Thai PBS. Some critics were harsh, hinting that this could be the first of many such missteps. “This is the beginning. She has to learn more about behaving as the premier. Along the way, there will surely be more,” commented a sceptic. Conversely, her supporters argue for empathy, understanding the immense challenge a young leader faces. “The tasks of governing the country are probably challenging for someone so young. I believe she is a quick learner and has a good team of qualified people around her,” defended a supporter. Another supporter urged critics to depoliticize the issue, suggesting it was an honest mistake quickly rectified. “The PM made just a minor mistake and, once she realised it, she stopped. Don’t politicise it and mock her,” they opined. -- 2024-09-09 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Monday 9 September 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1337677-thailand-live-monday-9-september-2024/

Residents Alarmed as Three Dangerous Dogs Escape, Attack Locals and Pets - Two Captured Three dangerous dogs escaped from an unknown owner Bang Saray, Sattahip District, causing panic among local residents. The dogs aggressively chased and attacked both locals and pets, prompting action by the authorities. Full story : https://aseannow.com/topic/1337657-residents-alarmed-as-three-dangerous-dogs-escape-attack-locals-and-pets-two-captured/

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is suspected of attempting to destroy evidence related to her father, Thaksin Shinawatra’s alleged fraudulent hospital stay at Bangkok Police Hospital. PM suspected of Trying to Erase Evidence Related to Thaksin's Hospital Stay Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337647-pm-suspected-of-trying-to-erase-evidence-related-to-thaksins-hospital-stay/ File photo by Wason Wanichakorn via AP

PM suspected of Trying to Erase Evidence Related to Thaksin's Hospital Stay File photo by Wason Wanichakorn via AP Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is suspected of attempting to destroy evidence related to her father, Thaksin Shinawatra’s alleged fraudulent hospital stay at Bangkok Police Hospital. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337647-pm-suspected-of-trying-to-erase-evidence-related-to-thaksins-hospital-stay/

File photo by Wason Wanichakorn via AP Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is suspected of attempting to destroy evidence related to her father, Thaksin Shinawatra’s alleged fraudulent hospital stay at Bangkok Police Hospital. The suspicion arises from claims that Paetongtarn may have orchestrated the removal of CCTV footage and other evidence to cover up her father's purported deception. Thaksin, reported as critically ill for six months before his recent parole, is accused of feigning illness to avoid serving his prison sentence for abuse of power and misconduct. Pichit Chaimongkol, leader of the Students & People Network for Thailand Reform, suggested that Paetongtarn could have secretly disposed of or destroyed evidence to conceal her father’s alleged scheme. This claim comes as the National Anti-Corruption Commission collects evidence, including CCTV footage, to investigate the authenticity of Thaksin’s hospital stay after his return from self-exile. Additionally, the Khana Nitichon Cherdchutham activist group has filed a lawsuit against Paetongtarn in the Constitutional Court for violating political ethics and the constitution by appointing Thavi Sodsong, who is accused of abusing power and applying double standards in Thaksin’s case. If found guilty, Paetongtarn and Sodsong could face immediate removal from office, and other officials involved could also face legal consequences, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-09-08 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe