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Thailand braces for severe monsoon rains and potential flash floods by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) issued a weather warning for today, September 2, predicting severe monsoon rains across 51 provinces, with 80% of Bangkok set to experience heavy rainfall. Citizens are advised to brace for potential flash floods. Full stiry: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337048-thailand-braces-for-severe-monsoon-rains-and-potential-flash-floods/

The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) issued a weather warning for today, September 2, predicting severe monsoon rains across 51 provinces, with 80% of Bangkok set to experience heavy rainfall. Citizens are advised to brace for potential flash floods. The TMD forecasts that a monsoon trough will traverse the northern and northeastern regions of Thailand, extending to a low-pressure area in the central South China Sea. Coupled with a moderate southwestern monsoon over the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand, this weather pattern will lead to increased rainfall and isolated heavy showers. In the Andaman Sea, moderate winds are expected in the upper part, with waves reaching about 2 metres. The lower Andaman Sea and the upper Gulf of Thailand will see waves between 1 to 2 metres. Areas experiencing thunderstorms may encounter waves exceeding 2 metres. Mariners in these regions are advised to navigate cautiously and avoid sailing in stormy conditions. From tomorrow to the next five days, the monsoon trough is predicted to shift over the lower northern, central, and northeastern regions of Thailand, moving towards the central South China Sea. The southwestern monsoon over the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand is also expected to intensify. This will result in increased rainfall across Thailand, with some areas in the eastern and southern regions experiencing very heavy rain. The Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand will see stronger winds and higher waves, with the Andaman Sea expecting waves between two to three metres and areas with thunderstorms seeing waves exceeding 3 metres. The upper Gulf of Thailand will have waves around 2 metres, with thunderstorm regions experiencing waves over two metres. Mariners are advised to exercise caution and avoid sailing in stormy conditions, and small boats in the Andaman Sea should remain ashore from the fourth to the seventh of September. Tropical storm The tropical storm “Yagi” near the Philippines is anticipated to move towards the southern part of Taiwan and China, entering the upper South China Sea between the third and fourth of September. In the northern region, 70% of the area will experience thunderstorms, with heavy rain in some places, including Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lampang, Phayao, Nan, Uttaradit, Phitsanulok, Tak, and Phetchabun. Temperatures will range from 24 to 25 degrees Celsius (°C) at the lowest and 31 to 35°C at the highest, with southwestern winds at 10 to 15 kilometres per hour (km/h). The northeastern region will see 70% of the area affected by thunderstorms, with some heavy rain in Loei, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Nong Bua Lamphu, Udon Thani, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Mukdahan, Yasothon, Amnat Charoen, Ubon Ratchathani, Chaiyaphum, and Nakhon Ratchasima. Temperatures will range from 23 to 25 °C at the lowest and 32 to 34 °C at the highest, with southwestern winds at 10 to 20 km/h. The central region will have 70% of the area experiencing thunderstorms and some heavy rain, particularly in Lopburi, Saraburi, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Nakhon Pathom, Samut Songkhram, and Samut Sakhon. Temperatures will range from 24 to 25°C at the lowest and 33 to 35°C at the highest, with southwestern winds at 10 to 20 km/h. In the eastern region, 80% of the area will see thunderstorms, with very heavy rain in Nakhon Nayok, Chachoengsao, Prachinburi, Sa Kaeo, Chon Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat. Temperatures will range from 24 to 25°C at the lowest and 29 to 33°C at the highest, with southwestern winds at 15 to 35 km/h. The sea will have waves between 1 to 2 metres, with areas experiencing thunderstorms seeing waves over 2 metres. The southern region (eastern coast) will have 60% of the area with thunderstorms and some heavy rain, particularly in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Songkhla, Yala, and Narathiwat. Temperatures will range from 23 to 26°C at the lowest and 33 to 35°C at the highest. Bangkok and its surrounding areas are expected to experience 80% thunderstorms, with some areas seeing very heavy rain. Temperatures will range from 24 to 25°C at the lowest and 33 to 35°C at the highest, with southwestern winds at 10 to 20 km/h. by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand to launch digital money handout in two weeks by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post The coalition government is set to initiate its policy implementation, including the digital money handout scheme, in two weeks, according to caretaker Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. Full. story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337046-thailand-to-launch-digital-money-handout-in-two-weeks/

The coalition government is set to initiate its policy implementation, including the digital money handout scheme, in two weeks, according to caretaker Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. However, Phumtham did not specify when the revised Cabinet line-up will be submitted for royal endorsement. He indicated that nominations from all coalition parties had been reviewed by state organisations and forwarded to the Secretariat of the Cabinet (SoC) and the Council of State (CoS), the government’s legal arm, for final review. Phumtham explained that the timing of the process now depends on the SoC and CoS. He reiterated that all necessary procedures for the government to take office should be completed within 15 days, with a three-day buffer before and after. “What most people are looking forward to is the government starting to solve problems while maintaining unity among coalition partners.” As the caretaker deputy prime minister, Phumtham expressed his eagerness for the new government to be endorsed and operational as soon as possible. Addressing rumours about the potential exclusion of the digital wallet handout scheme from the government’s policy statement in parliament, Phumtham confirmed that the scheme, an economic stimulus initiative, would proceed. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra mentioned on August 30 that the new cabinet lineup is almost ready, pending nominee qualifications verification. She noted that this process should take about a week to complete. “Will the list be submitted for royal endorsement next week? Well, as soon as the parties verifying it say so and send it back to us, we will try our best to get that done as fast as possible.” She also responded to inquiries about why her Pheu Thai Party decided not to include the Palang Pracharath Party in the new Cabinet, stating there were several reasons that she preferred not to elaborate on, reported Bangkok Post. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe Edited just now by webfact

RELATED NEWS "Big Boobs Barbershop" Draws Crowds with Expert Haircuts in Khon Kaen Picture courtesy: Daily News In Khon Kaen's Mueang District, a barbershop named "Big Boobs Barbershop" is generating buzz and attracting a steady stream of customers. Despite its provocative name, the shop's popularity is attributed to its owner's extensive experience and skill in men's hairstyling. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337040-big-boobs-barbershop-draws-crowds-with-expert-haircuts-in-khon-kaen/

Thai Department Warns Tourists Against Buying Fake Driving Licences File photo courtesy: Motorist In a recent advisory, Thailand’s Land Transport Department has cautioned foreign tourists against purchasing driving licences from illegal websites. This warning comes in the wake of a concerning Facebook post that created a stir by falsely claiming a Chinese woman obtained a Thai driving licence without knowing how to drive, allegedly with the help of an agent. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337045-thai-department-warns-tourists-against-buying-fake-driving-licences/

In a recent advisory, Thailand’s Land Transport Department has cautioned foreign tourists against purchasing driving licences from illegal websites. This warning comes in the wake of a concerning Facebook post that created a stir by falsely claiming a Chinese woman obtained a Thai driving licence without knowing how to drive, allegedly with the help of an agent. The controversial Facebook post showcased a photo of the woman’s driving licence, claiming, “She lives in Chiang Mai and got a Thai driving licence even though she never learnt how to drive. She just paid an agent to help her get the Thai permit.” This prompted the department to conduct an investigation. According to the Land Transport Department, the Chinese tourist in question did, in fact, apply for her licence at the Chiang Mai Provincial Land Transport Office following legal procedures and regulations. Contrary to the social media allegations, she underwent the necessary physical fitness tests and completed the required training courses. The department clarified that the photo of the driving licence was posted without the woman's consent. She has filed a police complaint against the owner of the Facebook page, asserting that she legally obtained her licence and did not use an agent. Officials strongly advise caution to tourists, warning that online offers to facilitate quick and easy licences are fraudulent. Such illegal websites often misuse the Land Transport Department’s logo to seem legitimate. They lure unsuspecting individuals by falsely advertising that they can bypass the official process, albeit at a much higher fee. For genuine Thai driving licences, applicants must visit the department in person, complete a physical fitness test, undergo theoretical training, and pass a driving course and examination. The official fee is 105 baht for a motorcycle licence and 205 baht for a car licence. Tourists are urged to avoid falling into these traps and to always follow the established legal procedures. File photo courtesy: Motorist -- 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Cyber Police Apprehend Loan Shark in Nakhon Si Thammarat Picture courtesy: Daily News Cyber police have arrested a notorious loan shark in Nakhon Si Thammarat known for charging steep interest rates of up to 20% per month and accepting vehicles and firearms as collateral. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337043-cyber-police-apprehend-loan-shark-in-nakhon-si-thammarat/

Picture courtesy: Daily News Cyber police have arrested a notorious loan shark in Nakhon Si Thammarat known for charging steep interest rates of up to 20% per month and accepting vehicles and firearms as collateral. The head of the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau, Worawat Watnakornbancha, instructed Division 5 commander Phumipat Phattharasriwongchai and his team to execute a search warrant issued by the Nakhon Si Thammarat Provincial Court. On August 29, officers raided a residence in Khanom subdistrict and arrested Somporn (alias Jun), a 60-year-old man. During the search, police confiscated a mobile phone, a CZ handgun, 19 rounds of ammunition, a sidecar motorcycle, bank account books, and loan contracts. These items were linked to Somporn’s illegal loan activities, which he operated through a Line account named Somporn. Somporn admitted to running an unlicensed loan business, charging interest rates as high as 20% per month. A typical loan of 10,000 baht (approximately £220) required daily repayments of 500 baht (around £11), combining both interest and principal, until the debt was cleared. This rate far exceeds the legal limit of 15% per year. Somporn primarily targeted local villagers, advertising his services and communicating with borrowers via the Line app. Borrowers could contact him by adding his phone number on Line. Police monitored his Line account to collect evidence before executing the arrest. Following his arrest, Somporn admitted to operating in the Khanom district for four years alongside his farming job. He confessed to keeping loan documents at his residence, charging illegal interest rates, and deleting some chat records due to heightened police scrutiny. Somporn faces multiple charges, including violating the 2017 Interest Rate Control Act by exceeding the legal interest rate limit, and operating a personal loan business without a licence in breach of the 1972 Revolutionary Council Announcement. Additionally, he was charged with illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition under the 1947 Firearms and Ammunition Act. The police have taken Somporn to Kanom Police Station for further legal action. His arrest is part of a broader crackdown on illegal lending practices, aiming to protect vulnerable borrowers from predatory financial activities. -- 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Monday 2 September 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337042-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-monday-2-september-2024/

An 18-year-old man was mauled to death by two American Bully dogs at his home in Lopburi. His mother and older brother found his body covered in bite marks upon returning home. CCTV footage showed him attempting to escape to a bedroom but failing to close the door in time. The dogs' owner pleaded for understanding after the tragedy. American Bully dogs are banned in several countries, including the UK, Ireland, Turkey, and the UAE. Around 150 residents near Phrae, northern Thailand, protested against a proposed dam, warning it would impact thousands of households and destroy over 10,000 rai of prime forest. They criticized politicians for reviving the plan after recent floods and urged the government to explore new methods for water management that respect nature and avoid further environmental damage. The Department of Transport has confirmed that a Chinese tourist seen in an online post advertising "fast-track" services to obtain a drivers licence had legally obtained her’s in Chiang Mai. A Thai social media user, falsely implied she bypassed the required driving tests. The department clarified that her image was used without consent and emphasized that all applicants must complete the necessary verification, physical exam, and driving test. A research team from Chulalongkorn University’s Faculty of Science won the United Nations Public Service Award for Innovation in Public Institutions. The award, presented in Seoul, recognized their work on "Academic Insight into Action for a Pandemic Response." The team developed a system using wastewater analysis for early disease detection, inspired by the Covid-19 pandemic. Around the region In Japan Tropical cyclone Shanshan, downgraded from a typhoon, left seven people dead and widespread damage as it churned off the Pacific coast. The met office warned of landslides, floods and rising water levels in rivers in western and eastern Japan Todays Weather Chiang Mai and the north: Thunder showers 32 32C degrees celsius Bangkok: sunny, Thunder showers 32 Pattaya: Heavy rain for most of the day 30 Phuket and the south: Bright with thundershowers 30 Hua Hin: Cloudy with rain on and off most of the day 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 2024-09-02 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Saudi Man Found Dead at Karon Beach, Phuket Picture: Daily News A 30-year-old Saudi man drowned while swimming at Karon Beach in Phuket, and his body was later found washed ashore. Authorities are working with the Saudi Arabian Embassy to locate his relatives for body identification and to complete legal procedures. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337041-saudi-man-found-dead-at-karon-beach-phuket/

A 30-year-old Saudi man drowned while swimming at Karon Beach in Phuket, and his body was later found washed ashore. Authorities are working with the Saudi Arabian Embassy to locate his relatives for body identification and to complete legal procedures. On September 1, Deputy Inspector (Investigation) R.T.O. ML. Sanya Suksawat of Karon Police Station received a report about a body found on Karon Beach, Karon Subdistrict, Mueang District, Phuket. He promptly arrived at the scene with Pol. Col. Khun Det Na Nong Khai, Superintendent of Karon Police Station, along with the investigation team, rescue workers from Karon Municipality, and officers from the Phuket Ruam Jai Rescue Foundation. They identified the deceased as Mr. Alharbi Bader Naqi M., a 30-year-old Saudi Arabian national. The body, found in light green shorts, was believed to have been swept away by waves while swimming near the Naga statue. Initial medical examinations revealed no signs of assault. The body was taken to Chira Phuket Hospital for identification and an autopsy to determine the cause of death. Officials are coordinating with the Saudi Arabian Embassy to contact the man's relatives and proceed with necessary legal procedures. It has been reported that he was scheduled to return on September 2, 2024, but unfortunately passed away before his departure. Picture: Daily News -- 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

"Big Boobs Barbershop" Draws Crowds with Expert Haircuts in Khon Kaen Picture courtesy: Daily News In Khon Kaen's Mueang District, a barbershop named "Big Boobs Barbershop" is generating buzz and attracting a steady stream of customers. Despite its provocative name, the shop's popularity is attributed to its owner's extensive experience and skill in men's hairstyling. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337040-big-boobs-barbershop-draws-crowds-with-expert-haircuts-in-khon-kaen/

Picture courtesy: Daily News In Khon Kaen's Mueang District, a barbershop named "Big Boobs Barbershop" is generating buzz and attracting a steady stream of customers. Despite its provocative name, the shop's popularity is attributed to its owner's extensive experience and skill in men's hairstyling. Ms. Rattana Wichasri, 31, owns the barbershop located in Ban Kut Kwang, Mueang Kao Subdistrict. She began her hairdressing career after receiving training from the Department of Skill Development, Region 6, and furthered her skills at Star Barber. Picture courtesy: Daily News With over three years of experience in men’s haircuts, she initially helped a friend open the barbershop. When her friend moved abroad, Ms. Wichasri took over and has since built a loyal customer base, reported Daily News. Ms. Wichasri explained that the shop's name, while attention-grabbing, is not the main draw. Her expertise in cutting hair in various styles keeps customers returning. "The shop's name might attract people initially, but it's my skill and the quality of service that make them come back," she said. Services at the barbershop are reasonably priced: men’s haircuts range from 100-150 baht, shampoo and blow-dry cost 100-150 baht, women’s haircuts are priced at 200-250 baht, fashion hair coloring starts at 500 baht, and gray hair dyeing costs between 160-200 baht. The shop serves no fewer than 20 customers daily. Despite her usual preference for dressing stylishly, Ms. Wichasri emphasized that the real reason for the shop’s success lies in the quality of her work, which has earned her a strong reputation among both new and returning clients. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Russian and Ukrainian Nationals Arrested for Illegal Car Rentals On September 1, 2024, the Tourism Police apprehended two foreign nationals for illegally renting out vehicles and advertising their services in Russian Telegram groups. They were charged with working in Thailand without a work permit. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337038-russian-and-ukrainian-nationals-arrested-for-illegal-car-rentals/

On September 1, 2024, the Tourism Police apprehended two foreign nationals for illegally renting out vehicles and advertising their services in Russian Telegram groups. They were charged with working in Thailand without a work permit. The operation was led by Police Lieutenant General Sakthira Phueak-um, Commissioner of the Tourism Police, and involved Police Lieutenant Colonel Winitch Bunchet, Inspector of the Tourism Police Division 5, along with Mr. Nopadol Khammali, District Chief of Koh Phangan, and local officials. The team conducted a crackdown on crime, including illegal foreign labor, in Koh Phangan. The two arrested individuals are: Mr. Andrei Petrov, a 60-year-old Russian, found with a gray Mazda CX-3 (license plate Kh 1822 Surat Thani). He was charged with “working in Thailand without a work permit.” Mr. Dmytro Piaterikov, an 18-year-old Ukrainian, found with a red Yamaha Xmax motorcycle (license plate 1K 4676 Lopburi). He was also charged with “working in Thailand without a work permit.” Both suspects were taken to the Koh Phangan Police Station for legal proceedings. Mr. Petrov admitted to running a car rental business, advertising through the Telegram app, and charging a 15,000 baht deposit per customer. He acknowledged that this activity is illegal. Mr. Piaterikov had come to Thailand to study but began renting out his motorcycle via Telegram to earn extra income. He advertised various rental rates: 10,000 baht for one month, 699 baht per day for 1-3 days, 599 baht per day for 3-9 days, 499 baht per day for 10-20 days, and 399 baht per day for 20-29 days. He admitted to renting out the motorcycle for two months. Police Lieutenant General Sakthira Phueak-um emphasized the need for tourism police stations in key tourist areas and nearby regions to intensify efforts against foreign nationals engaging in illegal activities and to enforce strict legal action in all cases. -- 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Anutin Calls for Swift Flood Response and Recovery Picture courtesy: Siam Rath On September 1, 2024, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul gave an interview after assessing the flood situation in the northern region, specifically in the provinces of Sukhothai, Chai Nat, and Nakhon Sawan. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337037-anutin-calls-for-swift-flood-response-and-recovery/

On September 1, 2024, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul gave an interview after assessing the flood situation in the northern region, specifically in the provinces of Sukhothai, Chai Nat, and Nakhon Sawan. He stated that the Ministry of Interior has been closely monitoring the situation and receiving continuous updates. During yesterday's visit, Mr. Anutin emphasized the importance of coordinating the work plan in these areas to ensure mutual understanding. At the meeting, he proposed simplifying the process of requesting support from the central government for disaster prevention and mitigation to enhance the efficiency of their efforts. "In flood situations, we rely heavily on local governments and the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) because they are on the ground. When requesting help from the central government, we must gather all necessary information and submit it promptly. The quicker we do this, the faster the assistance will arrive, reducing people's suffering and increasing their happiness," he said. Mr. Anutin explained that the current flooding has been caused by water from the north and heavy rainfall. In many areas, water levels are rising, and residents are moving their belongings to higher ground, while some have built barriers to prevent flooding. "We have the resources and tools, so we must assist immediately when there is a request. Even when we've done everything possible to prevent flooding, the water may still encroach. Both local governments and DDPM officials have been directed to reach out to affected residents, deliver food and water, and reassure them that the government is committed to their well-being. If anyone is ill, we must coordinate to ensure they receive medical care." “Late last night, at midnight, I saw defense volunteers and many officers from the Interior Ministry and other agencies helping the people. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone. Sometimes, our work never stops because people are waiting for our help. This is difficult work, but it’s the value of fulfilling our duty,” Mr. Anutin added. Mr. Anutin also noted that the floods have already passed through many provinces, causing significant damage. He urged everyone to assist the people in recovering and restoring the affected areas to normal. He praised the dedication of all involved, mentioning that many have gone above and beyond, even using their own resources. For example, some village headmen and local leaders used agricultural drones to deliver relief supplies, risking damage to ensure food and water reached the villagers, which helped them survive. "That is truly commendable. Our mission at the Interior Ministry is clear: to alleviate suffering and promote happiness. Your efforts bring smiles, create happiness for the people, and build their trust in you," he concluded. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Bangkok Cabbie Returns Almost 100,000 Baht to Israeli Tourist Picture courtesy: Siam Rath On September 1, 2024, at the Police Radio FM91 station, Dr. Jaitanai Sriwangpol, Deputy Managing Director of Vilai Center & Sons Co., Ltd., and Mr. Phichit Chaiyanit, Head of the News Department at FM91, witnessed the return of foreign currency totaling 75,100 baht to its Israeli owner, who had accidentally left the money in a taxi. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337036-bangkok-cabbie-returns-almost-100000-baht-to-israeli-tourist/

On September 1, 2024, at the Police Radio FM91 station, Dr. Jaitanai Sriwangpol, Deputy Managing Director of Vilai Center & Sons Co., Ltd., and Mr. Phichit Chaiyanit, Head of the News Department at FM91, witnessed the return of foreign currency totaling 75,100 baht to its Israeli owner, who had accidentally left the money in a taxi. The Good Samaritan taxi driver, Mr. Wirat Soiudom, 54, from Roi Et Province, drives a pink and green taxi with the registration number ThS-2769 in Bangkok. He found a black Prada handbag containing various foreign currencies and documents, including identification in the name of Mr. Nathanel Avinoam, an Israeli national. Mr. Wirat picked up Mr. Avinoam on August 31, 2024, at 8:00 p.m. on Trok Road and dropped him off in Soi Sukhumvit 22. Later, at 2:00 a.m. on the night of August 31, 2024, Mr. Wirat brought the bag to the FM91 station after checking the documents and money inside, which included US dollars, Hong Kong dollars, Israeli shekels, UAE dirhams, and Thai baht, totaling 75,100 baht. Upon being notified, FM91 quickly searched for the bag's owner and eventually found him. The owner, an Israeli tourist staying at a hotel in the Charoen Krung area, has been traveling to Thailand for business and leisure for over 20 years. Mr. Wirat, the Good Samaritan taxi driver, said he has been following FM91 for over 20-30 years and has returned lost money to its owners on several occasions. Just like this time, he tried to drive around and find the owner but could not locate him, so he thought of FM91 and decided to leave the bag there to help find the owner. "I’m glad to be a good citizen, and I want to encourage all taxi and tuk-tuk drivers to be honest in their profession," he said. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Mr. Nathanel Avinoam, the owner of the bag, expressed his joy and gratitude upon meeting the honest taxi driver. He said, "I have been traveling to and from Thailand for over 20 years. I love Thailand for its food, healthcare, and the kindness of its people. I want to spend my retirement here. I am pleased to have met such a good person and to have my belongings returned." In appreciation of the taxi driver's honesty, Mr. Avinoam gave him a reward of 200 US dollars, equivalent to 6,800 baht. TOP Picture courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Gunfire in Yala Market After Minor Vehicle Collision Picture courtesy: Daily News A minor vehicle collision in Yala’s Malayu Bangkok market escalated into violence when two men, upset by the incident, ambushed a contractor and fired three shots at his vehicle before fleeing the scene. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337033-gunfire-in-yala-market-after-minor-vehicle-collision/

A minor vehicle collision in Yala’s Malayu Bangkok market escalated into violence when two men, upset by the incident, ambushed a contractor and fired three shots at his vehicle before fleeing the scene. On August 31 at 1:50 pm, Yala’s 191 Emergency Response Centre received a report of a shooting at the Malayu Bangkok market. The caller, who was driving a black pickup truck, reported that two men had fired three shots at his vehicle. The bullets hit just below the driver’s side window, but fortunately, no one was injured. The assailants escaped on a black Scoopy motorcycle heading towards the Paramitae intersection. Police Lieutenant Chotiphong Siyong and a team of investigators arrived at the scene shortly after. They found the pickup truck parked in the market with a bullet hole in the front driver’s door. Initial findings suggest that the attackers took the shell casings with them. The victim, Sakkarin, a durian contractor, described the events. He said he was heading home to take a shower when his truck was grazed by a motorcycle. “I looked back, and he waved at me. I went home as usual, thinking nothing of it. After showering, I drove out and saw them on the road again. “We argued, and he pulled out a gun. I got back into my car, and he started shooting while shouting, ‘Do you know who I am?’ I quickly turned around, and he fired three more shots as I drove away.” The altercation seems to have resulted from the minor collision, as Sakkarin and the attackers did not know each other beforehand. After the incident, Yala City Police investigators quickly interviewed Sakkarin and other witnesses at the scene. Police have also instructed all checkpoints to be on alert for the black Scoopy motorcycle used by the attackers to help apprehend them and proceed with legal action. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

New Pheu Thai-Led Government to Begin Work Mid-September Thailand's new Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, front right, is congratulated by former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, left, after Paetongtarn received a royal letter of endorsement for the post at the Pheu Thai party headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand Sunday, Aug. 18, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) The new Pheu Thai-led government is not expected to begin operations until mid-September, announced acting Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai today (Aug. 31). The delay is due to the meticulous screening and double-checking process of all 36 ministers-designate, including Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337031-new-pheu-thai-led-government-to-begin-work-mid-september/

Thailand's new Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, front right, is congratulated by former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, left, after Paetongtarn received a royal letter of endorsement for the post at the Pheu Thai party headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand Sunday, Aug. 18, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) The new Pheu Thai-led government is not expected to begin operations until mid-September, announced acting Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai today (Aug. 31). The delay is due to the meticulous screening and double-checking process of all 36 ministers-designate, including Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Each minister-designate, hailing from various coalition partners, is being carefully vetted by the Secretariat of the Cabinet and the Council of State. This process is essential before the list is forwarded to the monarch for formal appointment. This thorough procedure is anticipated to take a couple of weeks. Only after this can the new government officially begin its duties. The new cabinet, led by Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the daughter of Thaksin Shinawatra, will partake in traditional ceremonies before assuming office. These include an audience with His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn, a formal appointment by the monarch, and an oath-taking ritual. Following these, the government will formally declare its policies at Parliament. Phumtham, who is designated as deputy prime minister and defense minister in Paetongtarn's cabinet, emphasized the significance of these processes. The new lineup notably includes members from various political backgrounds, including the Democrats, who have historically been adversaries of Pheu Thai. Phumtham reassured that one of Pheu Thai's flagship policies, a 10,000-baht digital wallet initiative for approximately 45 million individuals aged 16 and over, will be implemented as planned, alongside other economic recovery schemes. The new administration under Paetongtarn is set to replace the government of her predecessor, Srettha Thavisin. Srettha was recently stripped of his prime-ministerial status by the Constitutional Court due to a severe breach of conduct. As the new government prepares to take the reins, all eyes will be on the developments in Thailand's political landscape. The emphasis on thorough screening and traditional ceremonies underscores the importance of legitimacy and due process in this significant transition. -- 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe