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Court Upholds Death Sentences for Malaysian Businessman’s Assassination Picture courtesy: Thai Rath SONGKHLA, Thailand – The Court of Appeals Region 9 has upheld the death sentences for four men involved in the 2015 assassination of Malaysian businessman Mr. Lee Ah Han, while two others received life imprisonment. This verdict confirms the initial ruling from the lower court. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335540-court-upholds-death-sentences-for-malaysian-businessman’s-assassination/

SONGKHLA, Thailand – The Court of Appeals Region 9 has upheld the death sentences for four men involved in the 2015 assassination of Malaysian businessman Mr. Lee Ah Han, while two others received life imprisonment. This verdict confirms the initial ruling from the lower court. The incident, which shocked the community, took place on 4 December 2015. Mr. Lee Ah Han, 44, a Malaysian real estate tycoon, was gunned down in his black Mercedes S300, along with his wife Mrs. Mayuree Thipmanee, on Kanchanawanit Road in Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province. While Mr. Lee was killed instantly, Mrs. Mayuree survived, albeit with injuries. A total of six individuals stood accused in connection with the horrifying crime, executed with military precision using M16 rifles. The assailants were identified as part of a coordinated team, with roles ranging from contract killer to driver and orchestrator. Sentenced to Death: 1. Mr. Aphichat Saelow (Sia Chon), the hired gunman. 2. Mr. Yuthasak Klamak, the driver of the pickup truck. 3. Mr. Tan Wun Jen, the employer and mastermind. 4. Mr. Thanatep Ngamtan, the driver of the Ford pickup truck. Sentenced to Life Imprisonment: 1. Mr. Ekkapol Inkaew, the gunman, received a life sentence due to his confession. 2. Mr. Chinapat Pitakthai*, the driver for the gunman. Initially, Ekapol and Chinapat had evaded capture while on bail, but Ekapol was later arrested in May 2014 in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province. Chinapat remains at large, reported Thai Rath. The attack was meticulously planned. Three pickup trucks and a sedan were used for different roles, including surveillance and execution. The motive was traced to a debt dispute of approximately 120 million baht between Mr. Tan Wun Jen and the deceased. Notably, Mr. Aphichat, who was hired to kill Mr. Lee, was the father-in-law of Mr. Tan Wun Jen. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Further investigation revealed a more scandalous layer: Mr. Lee Ah Han had a personal relationship with Aphichat’s younger sister and had allegedly blackmailed her to acquire land, which contributed to the motive for his murder. Led by Pol. Col. Sakda Charoenkun, the investigation team meticulously gathered evidence and confessions that were crucial in securing the convictions. Despite initial denials, the evidence and Ekapol's detailed confession painted a clear picture of a brutal, premeditated crime, motivated by financial disputes and personal grudges. The court’s verdict today reiterates the gravity of such orchestrated assassinations and sends a strong message against organised crime. The families of the victims now hope for some semblance of justice and closure. The convicted have the right to appeal further, but for now, the Court of Appeals Region 9's decision stands firm. TOP Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-08-15 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

4 Robbers in Pathum Thani Force Chinese Millionaire to Transfer ฿70M Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In a daring heist, four robbers targeted a wealthy Chinese businessman residing in a luxury villa within the Riverdale Golf Course, Pathum Thani Province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335539-4-robbers-in-pathum-thani-force-chinese-millionaire-to-transfer-฿70m/

In a daring heist, four robbers targeted a wealthy Chinese businessman residing in a luxury villa within the Riverdale Golf Course, Pathum Thani Province. The robbers, armed and masked, stormed the home late at night and held the businessman, his young wife, and four maids captive. Under duress, the businessman was forced to transfer over ฿70 million in digital currency to the robbers' accounts. The robbery transpired in the early hours of August 14. Local authorities were alerted immediately, with Pol. Lt. Col. Kawi Chuaysang and his team from Pak Khlong Rangsit Police Station rushing to the scene. The sprawling luxury home appeared tranquil from the outside, but inside, chaos had unfolded. Mr. Ge Jiao Ba, 35, the Chinese millionaire at the centre of the incident, recounted the harrowing experience through an interpreter. According to Mr. Ge, the armed assailants broke into the house around 2 a.m. while everyone was asleep. The robbers, believed to be of Chinese nationality, threatened the residents and tied up Mr. Ge, his wife, and a male maid, leaving two female maids untied. Under threat of violence, Mr. Ge was coerced into contacting his relatives in China to transfer the substantial sum of digital currency. After securing the ransom, the robbers made off with the server containing CCTV footage from the house and escaped in Mr. Ge's black Toyota Alphard, reported Thai Rath. The motive behind the heist remains unclear, though the meticulous planning suggests the robbers had insider knowledge of the village's layout and security. They entered the gated community on foot to avoid suspicion, using Mr. Ge’s car to flee towards Sa Kaeo Province. Authorities are currently scouring CCTV footage along the escape route and liaising with local immigration officials. Mr. Ge and his household are to be questioned further to unearth any potential leads in this high-stakes investigation. The brazen theft has sent shockwaves through the elite community in Pathum Thani, highlighting vulnerabilities despite stringent security measures. The police are under pressure to solve the case swiftly, as the search for the culprits continues. TOP Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-08-15 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Thursday 15 August 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335538-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-thursday-15-august-2024/

Following the court's dismissal of Srettha Thavasin 76 year old Chai-kasem Niti-siri, a former justice minister and a senior politician of the Pheu Thai Party, is tipped to be nominated as the new prime minister, Their decision came following a meeting of Pheu Thai and all the coalition parties at former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s home last night. A special House meeting is expected to be held tomorrow to vote on a new prime minister. Meanwhile the deputy prime minister is returning to Thailand to resume the position of caretaker Prime minister. Five out of seven people involved in the 2015 murder of Malaysian businessman Lee Ah Han over a 120-million-baht debt have been sentenced to death by a court in Songkhla. The shooter and driver had their death sentences reduced to life imprisonment after pleading guilty. Mr Lee was killed with an M16 rifle while in his car. Agricultural authorities have begun inspections which could lead to the demolition of more than 400 resorts for encroaching on public land in Nakhon Ratchasima, At least one resort on a 73 rai plot of land is jointly owned by a former local politician. Ten sites owned by another company have received orders to be demolished while hundreds more land owners face demolition orders. The Ministry of Transport has invited Japanese companies to invest in expanding the Red Line electric train system. Thailand sees value in Japanese expertise in advanced railway technology and efficient maintenance. Around the region Japan A Severe tropical storm Ampil is expected to intensify into a typhoon as it nears eastern japan today and tomorrow, flights and other public transit services are expected to be cancelled. The weather agency added that a huge earthquake was more likely in the aftermath of a magnitude 7.1 jolt in the south yesterday , which left at least 15 people injured. Todays Weather mothers day Monday Chiang Mai and the north: cloudy, thundershowers 33C degrees celsius Bangkok: Bright, partly cloudy, thundershowers 33 Pattaya: Sunny partly Cloudy 32 Phuket and the south: Sunny partly Cloudy 31 Hua Hin: Sunny with further showers expected this afternoon 32C 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 2024-08-15 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Faces Political Turmoil after Srettha Thavisin's Exit In a sudden twist, Thailand’s Prime Minister, Srettha Thavisin, has been ousted following a Constitutional Court ruling. Srettha, who had been the Thailand's 30th Prime Minister, stood accused of making an ethically dubious appointment, leading to a shocking verdict: his tenure was over. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335537-thailand-faces-political-turmoil-after-srettha-thavisins-exit/

In a sudden twist, Thailand’s Prime Minister, Srettha Thavisin, has been ousted following a Constitutional Court ruling. Srettha, who had been the Thailand's 30th Prime Minister, stood accused of making an ethically dubious appointment, leading to a shocking verdict: his tenure was over. The controversy centred on Srettha's appointment of Phichit Chuenban as Minister in the Prime Minister's Office. Political experts initially believed the allegations wouldn't shake his position. However, the Constitutional Court, in a 5-4 decision, determined that Srettha either knew or should have known about Phichit's ineligibility, thus breaching ethical standards. The verdict handed down by Justices Panya Udchachon, Udom Sithiwirattham, Wirun Saengthian, Jiraniti Hawanont, and Banjongsak Wongprach came as a shock to many. The dissenting voices included Judges Nakharin Mektrairat, Napadon Theppithak, Udom Rathamarit, and Sumeth Roikulcharoen. Srettha accepted the ruling with deep regret, acknowledging the damage to his reputation and the unfinished business he leaves behind. His abrupt exit has thrown the political landscape into disarray, leading to immediate speculation about his successor, reported Thai Rath. The Pheu Thai Party, which held a leadership role in the government, is determined to maintain its grip on power. Meanwhile, rival factions within Bhumjaithai and Palang Pracharath parties are manoeuvring for a possible takeover, eyeing ministerial seats and broader influence. Complicating matters, the anticipated Cabinet reshuffle, initially expected in late summer, is now urgently required. The government’s operations are near-paralysed, needing a swift appointment of a new PM to restore order. Pheu Thai's challenge now is to smoothly transition the leadership without losing credibility. Potential successors from Pheu Thai, such as Paetongtarn Shinawatra, are being considered to maintain continuity of policies like the digital wallet initiative. Meanwhile, coalition partners seek to maximise their gains from the power vacuum, negotiating for key ministerial positions. Notably, Bhumjaithai has taken a strategic stance, opposing controversial projects like the casino initiative, possibly to secure a favourable position within the new political order. Despite the chaos, Pheu Thai must ensure the PM role remains within the party to avoid a significant blow to their popularity. On the other side, the Move Forward Party watches intently from opposition benches, preparing for what they hope will be a clearer path to victory in the next election. TOP picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-08-15 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Sisaket Woman Reports Drunk 'Big Shot' for Assault After Rejecting Him All pictures courtesy: Daily News A 27-year-old woman reported an assault by an influential local figure, commonly referred to as "Sia N", following her refusal to engage with him at a well-known pub in Sisaket. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335536-sisaket woman-reports-drunk-big-shot-for-assault-after-rejecting-him/

A 27-year-old woman reported an assault by an influential local figure, commonly referred to as "Sia N", following her refusal to engage with him at a well-known pub in Sisaket. The incident, which unfolded on August 14, has garnered significant attention due to the alleged assailant's reputed influence and the public nature of the assault. Ms. Dao (pseudonym), the victim, recounted that the evening began with her and four friends enjoying themselves at the pub. "Sia N" approached her to clink glasses and engage in conversation, but she politely declined, which evidently angered him. Just minutes later, "Sia N" erupted in anger, demanding loudly that everyone leave the pub, cursing at Ms. Dao's friends and summoning security to eject them from the premises. "We didn't want any trouble, so we complied and went outside," Ms. Dao shared. However, as she lingered momentarily in front of the pub, "Sia N" continued his harassment, increasingly aggressive. He demanded again that she drink with him, but upon her refusal, he threw his glass on the floor, cursed her, and escalated to violence by slapping her, causing her to fall. Out of sheer frustration and self-defense, Ms. Dao slapped "Sia N" back, which incited a brutal response. "He punched, slapped, and pulled my hair, beating me until I was bruised all over," she recounted, her voice tremblingm reported Daily News. Attempted interventions by the pub's staff were met with threats from "Sia N", who boasted of his powerful connections and declared he could shut the establishment down at will. Following the ordeal, Ms. Dao received medical treatment for her injuries and promptly filed a police complaint. She expressed determination to seek justice despite "Sia N's" influential status. The police investigation is ongoing. All pictures courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-08-15 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Koh Tao Bar Owner Arrested for Selling Laughing Gas to Foreign Tourists Picture courtesy: Daily News In a dramatic crackdown on illegal activity, the Crime Suppression Division raided a secret bar on Koh Tao, arresting a 33-year-old female owner who has confessed to selling laughing gas to foreign tourists for over six months. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335534-koh-tao-bar-owner-arrested-for-selling-laughing-gas-to-foreign-tourists/

In a dramatic crackdown on illegal activity, the Crime Suppression Division raided a secret bar on Koh Tao, arresting a 33-year-old female owner who has confessed to selling laughing gas to foreign tourists for over six months. Pol. Col. Sarut Khaewsopa, Commander of the Anti-Human Trafficking Division, spearheaded the operation. Working alongside Pol. Col. Kukkong Disawat and Pol. Lt. Col. Aphicha Thepchan, field officers apprehended the suspect, uncovering significant evidence: three gas cylinders, 14 used balloons, 120 unused balloons, 38 balloon exchange tickets, and 500 baht in cash. The raid followed a tip-off that the bar was selling nitrous oxide—commonly known as laughing gas—in balloons, intended for tourists to inhale and experience intoxication. Questioning the suspect revealed that she had been discreetly operating this scheme for more than six months. Balloons were sold for 80 baht each, with a bulk offer of three balloons for 200 baht. This illegal distribution has become a troubling trend, raising concerns about the health and safety risks associated with inhaling nitrous oxidem reported Daily News. The suspect's confession has raised significant concern among local authorities. Laughing gas, while legally used for medical purposes, is potentially harmful when abused for recreational purposes. Prolonged or excessive inhalation can cause severe health issues, including oxygen deprivation, loss of motor control, and in extreme cases, neurological damage. Further legal proceedings will take place at Koh Tao Police Station as authorities continue their investigation. This incident highlights the ongoing need for strict regulation and vigilant enforcement to maintain public safety in tourist hotspots. Local leaders are urging tourists and residents alike to avoid such illegal activities, emphasizing the importance of supporting legitimate businesses that contribute positively to the community. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-08-15 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand's Top 10 Longest-Serving Prime Ministers Image composite courtesy: Daily News In a surprising turn of events, the Thai political landscape has been thrown into turmoil following the Constitutional Court's ruling against Prime Minister Settha Thavisin. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335533-thailands-top-10-longest-serving-prime-ministers/

In a surprising turn of events, the Thai political landscape has been thrown into turmoil following the Constitutional Court's ruling against Prime Minister Settha Thavisin. The court voted 5 to 4, finding Settha guilty of lacking the necessary qualifications to serve as Prime Minister due to previous legal issues, leading to his resignation after just 358 days in office, reported Daily News. The setback has sparked discussions, with many reflecting on the longest-serving prime ministers in Thai history. Settha, Thailand’s 30th Prime Minister, held the position for less than a year, a stark contrast to some of his predecessors. Let's take a closer look at the top 10 longest-serving prime ministers in Thailand's history: 1. Field Marshal Plaek Phibunsongkhram (15 years 25 days) - Held office across multiple non-consecutive terms from 1938 to 1957, Phibunsongkhram's tenure was marked by militarised governance and efforts at modernisation. 2. Field Marshal Thanom Kittikachorn (9 years 205 days) - His time included five terms from 1958 to 1973, culminating in widespread protests and his forced resignation. 3. General Prem Tinsulanonda (8 years 154 days) - Served three terms from 1980 to 1988 and was known for his role in stabilising the country during a period of economic growth. 4. General Prayut Chan-o-cha (8 years 363 days) - Thailand’s current political landscape was significantly shaped by Prayut's leadership from 2014 to 2023. 5. Chuan Leekpai (6 years 20 days) - Known for his integrity, Chuan served two terms from 1992 to 1995 and 1997 to 2001. 6. Pol. Lt. Col. Thaksin Shinawatra (5 years 222 days) - His two terms from 2001 to 2006 were noted for economic reforms, but ended controversially with a military coup. 7. Colonel Phraya Phahon Phonphayuhasena (5 years 178 days) - Led the country between 1933 to 1938, a critical period in modern Thai history. 8. Field Marshal Sarit Thanarat (4 years 302 days) - His rule from 1959 to 1963 saw significant socio-economic reforms. 9. Yingluck Shinawatra (2 years 275 days) - Thailand’s first female prime minister served from 2011 to 2014 before a controversial court ruling forced her out of office. 10. Abhisit Vejjajiva (2 years 231 days) - His term from 2008 to 2011 was marked by attempts at economic stabilisation amidst political unrest. However, for Srettha Thavisin, the 30th Prime Minister of Thailand, he has started his term 1: 22 August 2023 - 14 August 2024, a period of 358 days. Despite his brief term, Settha Thavisin's tenure will be remembered as a moment of political upheaval, reflecting on the challenges and the ever-evolving political environment in Thailand. TOP Image composite courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-08-15 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Tycoon to Toppled PM: Srettha Thavisin's Tumultuous Tenure in Thailand FILE - Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin speaks to the media during a press conference at Government House in Bangkok, Thailand, on Aug. 6, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit, File) Once a high-flying real estate tycoon, Srettha Thavisin swiftly ascended to Thailand's prime ministership, only to face a dramatic downfall within a year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335527-tycoon-to-toppled-pm-srettha-thavisins-tumultuous-tenure-in-thailand/

Once a high-flying real estate tycoon, Srettha Thavisin swiftly ascended to Thailand's prime ministership, only to face a dramatic downfall within a year. Srettha, born on 15 February 1962, emerged from a background in luxury real estate to become Thailand's 30th prime minister. He served as CEO of Sansiri, a major property development company, before resigning in 2022 to enter politics. His rise was facilitated by the Pheu Thai Party, which embraced him as a key strategist and then as their prime ministerial candidate. Srettha’s educational credentials, featuring a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of Massachusetts and a Master’s degree in Finance from Claremont Graduate School, set a knowledgeable foundation for his career. However, the political arena proved far less forgiving than the real estate market. In March 2023, he became Pheu Thai Party’s chief adviser, swiftly transitioning to their prime ministerial nominee by April, reported The Nation. His ascent culminated on 23 August 2023, when he was appointed Thailand's prime minister by royal decree. Srettha’s tenure began with optimism, focusing on economic reforms and tackling corruption. Nevertheless, political turbulence soon overshadowed these ambitions. On 15 May 2024, a group of 40 senators petitioned the Constitutional Court to review Srettha's qualifications, along with then Minister of the Prime Minister's Office, Phichit Chuenban. The charges brought against him called into question his eligibility to continue serving due to potential conflicts of interest and procedural irregularities. The judicial review reached a pivotal moment on 14 August 2024, when the Constitutional Court delivered a narrow 5 to 4 verdict against Srettha. The ruling stripped him of his prime ministerial role, marking a stunning fall from grace for the erstwhile real estate mogul. In just under a year, Srettha Thavisin’s political journey encapsulated a high-stakes rollercoaster, reflecting the volatile nature of Thai politics and the significant challenges faced by those who navigate it. TOP FILE - Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin speaks to the media during a press conference at Government House in Bangkok, Thailand, on Aug. 6, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit, File) -- 2024-08-15 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Rayong governor assesses delayed U-Tapao Airport progress by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Wikapedia Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, along with Vice Minister for the Office of the Prime Minister Nahathai Tiwphaingam and Rayong Governor Traipob Wongtrairat, visited the delayed U-Tapao Airport and Eastern Aviation City development project sites yesterday to assess ongoing progress. Fullm story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335526-rayong-governor-assesses-delayed-u-tapao-airport-progress/

Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, along with Vice Minister for the Office of the Prime Minister Nahathai Tiwphaingam and Rayong Governor Traipob Wongtrairat, visited the delayed U-Tapao Airport and Eastern Aviation City development project sites yesterday to assess ongoing progress. Tharit Issarayangyun, Deputy Secretary-General of the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), provided a comprehensive progress update on the project, which is part of the government’s strategy to standardise the aviation industry and stimulate investments in the EEC. Progress was divided into two categories: civil and private sectors. According to Tharit, the Royal Thai Navy (RTN) is responsible for certain elements of the project. Recently, the RTN approved a budget of 16.2 billion baht for development, including the construction of the second runway and taxiway. The RTN is currently in the process of selecting contractors and consultants for this construction. Regarding the project’s utility infrastructure managed by the state, more than 95% progress has been reported. Key installations, including the first phase of a water supply plant and a wastewater treatment system, have been completed, said Tharit. “A 15-megawatt solar power plant, along with electricity and cooling systems, is nearing completion. Moreover, the construction of the aircraft refuelling service systems is at the halfway mark.” On the private sector side, the EEC intends to speed up the process by issuing a notice to proceed with the construction of the third terminal building, a secondary concourse, and a shopping centre this year. Tharit mentioned that the entire project is expected to take five years to complete, with U-Tapao Airport and Eastern Aviation City projected to open in 2029. Tharit acknowledged the delays that have pushed the project timeline forward. “Originally, the plan was to commence construction in 2019 and complete it this year.” In related news, government officials anticipate finalising the revised contract for the EEC high-speed rail system by next month, paving the way for the project’s next phase. This high-speed rail system, a cornerstone project for the EEC, aims to connect Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi, and U-Tapao airports. by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Wikapedia Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-15 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Disney fights Thai doctor’s death lawsuit, citing husband’s agreement Photo via Facebook/ Jeffrey Piccolo Multinational conglomerate Walt Disney dismissed a lawsuit filed by the husband of a Thai doctor who died after dining at a Disney restaurant in Florida, claiming that her husband agreed to settle any disputes with Disney outside of court when he signed up for the Disney+ streaming service. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335494-disney-fights-thai-doctor’s-death-lawsuit-citing-husband’s-agreement/

Thailand Orders Tighter Checks on Chinese Imports Amid Quality Concerns File photo courtesy: Banmuang The Thai Industrial Standards Institute (TISI) has been instructed by the Ministry of Industry to intensify quality inspections on more than 1,000 Chinese-made products sold online in Thailand. This move comes as local industrialists voice concerns over the impact of substandard and cheap imports from China on domestic markets. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335524-thailand-orders-tighter-checks-on-chinese-imports-amid-quality-concerns/

File photo courtesy: Banmuang The Thai Industrial Standards Institute (TISI) has been instructed by the Ministry of Industry to intensify quality inspections on more than 1,000 Chinese-made products sold online in Thailand. This move comes as local industrialists voice concerns over the impact of substandard and cheap imports from China on domestic markets. Industry Minister Pimpatra Wichaikul announced that the government is also considering imposing taxes on E-commerce dealing with Chinese products. The aim is to create a level playing field for local producers who currently shoulder tax obligations that their Chinese competitors do not. Between last September and July this year, TISI seized substandard goods worth over 300 million baht, with about 29%—valued at roughly 92 million baht—originating from China. TISI Secretary-General Wanchai Panomchai highlighted that an additional 1,400 products have been added to the list subject to quality standards, expanding the list from the existing 2,722 items, to ensure public safety. TISI officials have also been engaging with delivery services to educate them on legal and customs requirements to curb the influx of substandard goods. The quality and pricing of Chinese fresh produce, arriving via the China-Laos high-speed train, are attracting Thai consumers and significantly affecting local farmers. Nakhon Ratchasima's fresh markets are witnessing a surge in Chinese fruits and vegetables, offering better quality and lower prices compared to local produce. Sa-ngad Sardmaroeng, a greengrocer at Mae Kim Heng fresh market, noted the economic advantage of Chinese vegetables, which are cheaper, more varied, and available year-round. She mentioned that a pack of Origi mushrooms costs her just 10 baht, allowing her to sell it for 20 baht, a deal local farmers struggle to match. Chinese imports, which arrive within a day via the high-speed train, are priced approximately 50% lower than local products. This price gap is a significant factor driving consumer preference, potentially undermining Thai agricultural businesses. In summary, the Thai government is stepping up efforts to regulate the quality and fair trade of Chinese imports, aiming to protect domestic industries. -- 2024-08-15 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

PM Srettha Guilty of Ethical Misconduct, Entire Cabinet Dismissed Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin listens to a question from a reporter during a press conference at Government house in Bangkok, Thailand after a court removed Srettha from office over an ethical violation Wednesday, Aug. 14, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has been ousted from office by the Constitutional Court today, following a ruling that found him guilty of gross ethical misconduct. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335522-pm-srettha-guilty-of-ethical-misconduct-entire-cabinet-dismissed/

Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin listens to a question from a reporter during a press conference at Government house in Bangkok, Thailand after a court removed Srettha from office over an ethical violation Wednesday, Aug. 14, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has been ousted from office by the Constitutional Court today, following a ruling that found him guilty of gross ethical misconduct. This decision came after his controversial appointment of Phichit Chuenban, a long-time lawyer for the influential Shinawatra family, as the Prime Minister’s Office Minister. The court’s verdict also mandates the removal of Srettha's entire cabinet. The court concluded that Srettha exhibited a "lack of evident integrity" when appointing Phichit, who had previously been sentenced to six months in prison for contempt of court by the Supreme Court's Criminal Division for Political Office Holders in a bribery case. The court underscored that Phichit's criminal record disqualified him from holding a ministerial position, and Srettha should have known and acted accordingly. Despite Srettha’s argument that, as a businessman, he was not familiar with legal intricacies, the court found this defence unacceptable. The court highlighted that Phichit's criminal history was publicly known and that Srettha had sought advice from the Council of State, indicating his awareness of potential qualification issues. Phichit's name was initially excluded from the first list of cabinet ministers but appeared on a revised list after Srettha had consulted with an undisclosed individual. This revised list was subsequently submitted for royal assent. The court interpreted this sequence of actions as evidence that external influences swayed Srettha, thus compromising the integrity of his office. "The Prime Minister should have exercised proper judgement," asserted the court. "Integrity is a fundamental principle, and the reinstatement of Phichit’s name to the cabinet list, after it had been removed, demonstrates a breach of ethical standards." This ruling has significant political implications, leaving Thailand with the immediate task of forming a new government in the wake of Srettha’s and his cabinet's dismissal. -- 2024-08-15 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 15 August 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1335520-thailand-live-thursday-15-august-2024/

Chaikasem to be Nominated as New Thai PM at Special House Meeting Chaikasem Nitisiri. File photo courtesy: thansettakij Chaikasem Nitisiri, a former justice minister and senior figure in the Pheu Thai Party, is expected to be nominated as the new prime minister of Thailand. This comes after the unexpected dismissal of Srettha Thavisin by the Constitutional Court for ethical breaches. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335521-chaikasem-to-be-nominated-as-new-thai-pm-at-special-house-meeting/