webfact

to continue: Thailand Live Saturday 10 August 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1335128-thailand-live-saturday-10-august-2024/

Former Members of the Dissolved MFP Form New Political Group: The People's Party A new political group called "The People's Party" was launched today by members of the now-disbanded Move Forward Party (MFP). The new party leader is Natthaphong “Teng” Ruengpanyawut, who was the Deputy Secretary-General for the MFP. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335104-former-members-of-the-dissolved-mfp-form-new-political-group-the-peoples-party/

The Embassy of the State of Kuwait in the Kingdom of Thailand, under the leadership of His Excellency Ambassador Mohammad Hussain Al-Failakawi, is closely monitoring recent events that took place in Pattaya City. Ambassador Al-Failakawi has emphasised the importance of Kuwaiti citizens strictly adhering to the instructions and guidelines issued by the Embassy, as well as the laws and regulations enforced by the Thai authorities. Kuwaiti Embassy urges citizens to follow Thai Laws Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335100-kuwaiti-embassy-urges-citizens-to-follow-thai-laws/

Norwegian man falls to his death from 16th floor of Pattaya condo by Petch Petpailin Photo via Amarin TV A Norwegian man allegedly committed suicide by jumping from the 16th floor of his condominium in Pattaya yesterday, shocking his Thai wife, who was cooking in the kitchen. The wife contacted officers from Mueang Pattaya Police Station to report the death of her husband, 88 year old Jan Asbjorn Hauge, at their condominium in the Jomtien neighbourhood of Pattaya. The incident occurred at approximately 3.30pm yesterday, August 8. Police reported that Hauge allegedly jumped from the balcony of his room on the 16th floor. His body fell onto the roof of a bar on the third floor. Sawang Boriboon Dham Rescue team was called to retrieve the body from the roof. Rescuers faced difficulties during the operation and had to use a boom lift to access the third-floor roof. Police stated that there were no signs of physical altercation or struggle, either on Hauge’s body or in the room he shared with his wife. Hauge’s wife told the police that they had not argued and Hauge had never mentioned anything about suicide. According to her, Hauge had a kidney disease and was very quiet on the day of the incident. She believes he seized the opportunity while she was cooking to take his own life. The wife said she was shocked when she saw Hauge’s body on the roof of the bar. She had to take some time to compose herself before reporting the matter to the police. Leaping from a condo in Pattaya has become a thing over the past few years with locals insensitively calling it “The Pattaya Flying Club.” In a related report, a Thai mother and her daughter committed suicide in their home in Pattaya in July. The mother had been suffering from lung cancer, while her daughter had been battling autoimmune diseases. It is believed they ended their lives due to the distress caused by their illnesses. Multiple suicide cases have been reported in Pattaya recently, including the deaths of a Chinese man in February, a Czech man in March, a Thai-American man in April, and a British, Russian, and Thai man in June. If you or anyone you know is in emotional distress, please contact the Samaritans of Thailand 24-hour hotline: 02 713 6791 (English), 02 713 6793 (Thai), or the Thai Mental Health Hotline at 1323 (Thai). Please also contact your friends or relatives at this time if you have feelings of loneliness, stress, or depression. Seek help. Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-09 - 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

Motorcyclist Severely Injured in Crash with Pattaya Female Car Driver By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya — A motorcyclist in Pattaya was critically injured after a car collided with his bike. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335073-motorcyclist-severely-injured-in-crash-with-pattaya-female-car-driver/

Pattaya — A motorcyclist in Pattaya was critically injured after a car collided with his bike. The accident took place at 1:00 AM on August 8th, 2024, on Sukhumvit Road near the Chaiyaphruek intersection, heading towards Sattahip, Nongprue sub-district, Banglamung district, Chonburi province. Rescue volunteers were quickly dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, authorities found a gray Honda Jazz car with severe front-end damage after crashing into the rear of a red and black Honda Wave 100 motorcycle, which was lodged in the front of the car. The motorcycle rider, an unidentified Thai man believed to be between 40 and 50 years old, was found face down on the road, severely injured with both legs and arms broken. Rescue personnel provided initial first aid before urgently transporting him to a nearby hospital. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-08-09 - 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

Pattaya officials tackle cable chaos in Naklua old market By Pattaya Mail Deputy Mayor Wuthisak Rermkijakarn inspects the tangled electrical and communication cables in Naklua Old Market, highlighting the need for reorganization to ensure the safety of residents and tourists. PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya City officials inspected the tangled and untidy cables in Naklua Old Market, Soi 8/1 (Soi Wattanachai), on August 8 as part of an initiative to reorganize the cluttered infrastructure in the area. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335067-pattaya-officials-tackle-cable-chaos-in-naklua-old-market/

Deputy Mayor Wuthisak Rermkijakarn inspects the tangled electrical and communication cables in Naklua Old Market, highlighting the need for reorganization to ensure the safety of residents and tourists. PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya City officials inspected the tangled and untidy cables in Naklua Old Market, Soi 8/1 (Soi Wattanachai), on August 8 as part of an initiative to reorganize the cluttered infrastructure in the area. Deputy Mayor Wuthisak Rermkijakarn, who led the inspection, emphasized the historical significance of the Lan Pho Naklua market, a community known for its traditional Thai-style wooden houses that preserve the unique heritage of the area. He noted that the aging electrical and communication cables have become a growing concern due to their potential to cause dangerous short circuits. By Pattaya Mail Full story: Pattaya Mail 2024-08-09 - 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

Chinese man suspected in death of Lao girlfriend in Chon Buri by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Jack Thekop An overstaying Chinese man told police that his Lao girlfriend chased him from her condominium in Chon Buri and had nothing to do with her death. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335066-chinese-man-suspected-in-death-of-lao-girlfriend-in-chon-buri/

An overstaying Chinese man told police that his Lao girlfriend chased him from her condominium in Chon Buri and had nothing to do with her death. She was later found dead in the bathroom with a severe cut to her throat. The cause of her death remains unclear. A 25 year old woman, Nong, reported the death of her 28 year old Laotian friend, Prai “Namfon” Manee, at Nongprue Police Station yesterday, August 8. Her body was found in the bathroom of her room at a condo in Soi Ban Noen Rot Fai 1. Nong told police that Namfon’s older sister had called her at about 2pm that day, asking her to check on Namfon because she was unable to contact her. Upon arriving at the condo, Nong found Namfon’s Chinese boyfriend, 42 year old Chang Zi, outside the room. According to Nong, the room was locked, and the Chinese man did not have a key to Namfon’s room. They decided to call a locksmith, who helped them gain entry. Nong stated that Chang entered the room before her but immediately ran out in fear, informing her that Namfon was dead. Nong said Chang excused himself and left the scene, stating that he had overstayed his visa and did not want to encounter the police. According to the police report, Namfon was found lying face-up in a pool of blood in the bathroom. She was dressed in red shorts and a black T-shirt. She had a deep cut to her neck and was holding a kitchen knife in her right hand. Another knife was found in the sink. Suspicious footprints There were large bloody footprints, which appeared to belong to another person, in front of the bathroom. A cat was also found in the room. Nonetheless, officers summoned Chang for questioning. Chang revealed to the police that he and Namfon had been in a relationship for about three years. Before Namfon’s death, Chang claimed that Namfon had arrived at the room at 7pm on August 7 and seemed drunk. Namfon allegedly shouted that a ghost was following her and wanted to kill her. She then chased Chang out of the room and locked it. Chang said he attempted to gain entry again but received no response, so he spent the night at a friend’s place instead. Namfon’s death remains under investigation. The police have yet to determine whether Namfon committed suicide or was murdered. The Chinese man will be questioned further but has been initially charged with overstaying his visa by over four years. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Jack Thekop Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-09 - 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

Simon Robinson: British Man Still Missing After Taking Flight from Bangkok Simon Robinson. Picture courtesy: Facebook UPDATE: The family of Simon Robinson, a British man, is appealing for help after he went missing whilst returning from Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335064-simon-robinson-british-man-still-missing-after-taking-flight-from-bangkok/

Simon Robinson. Picture courtesy: Facebook UPDATE The family of Simon Robinson, a British man, is appealing for help after he went missing whilst returning from Thailand. Simon was last heard from on 26th July before boarding a flight from Bangkok to Helsinki. He was supposed to catch a connecting flight from Helsinki to Manchester, but he never boarded the second plane. Simon’s sister, Sarah Robinson Dale, confirmed he was on the flight from Thailand but did not take the connecting flight. Distressingly, his phone has been switched off ever since, and there has been no contact with family or friends. Simon Robinson, a 27-year-old from Skegness, Lincolnshire, was initially scheduled to fly back from his holiday on 3rd August. However, he contacted his girlfriend to inform her he would return early. Concerns grew when he failed to show up, prompting his family to spread the word about his disappearance. Ms Dale has created a missing person poster in both English and Finnish, hoping it will generate new leads in Finland. The family has also launched an Instagram page, @findsimonrobinson, to raise awareness and gather information, reported Sky News. Simon is described as 6ft 2in tall, of regular build, with brown hair and blue eyes. His disappearance has left his family in a state of worry and uncertainty, urging anyone who might have seen him or has information on his whereabouts to reach out. For those in the UK with potential information, they are encouraged to contact the police on 101. If you are outside the UK, specifically in Finland, you can reach Interpol in Helsinki at +358 295 480 181. The family hopes that with the help of the public, they can find Simon and bring him back home safely. Source: Sky News -- 2024-08-09 - 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

Man Faints and Falls to His Death After Encounter with Ladyboy This morning, a 30-year-old man tragically drowned after suffering an epileptic seizure during an intimate moment by a moat in Nakhon Ratchasima. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335062-man-faints-and-falls-to-his-death-after-encounter-with-ladyboy/

This morning, a 30-year-old man tragically drowned after suffering an epileptic seizure during an intimate moment by a moat in Nakhon Ratchasima. Authorities were alerted to the situation at 12:40 a.m. and rushed to Kamhaeng Songkhram Road, near the Court of Appeals, Region 3. Despite the water being only knee-deep, efforts to revive the man were unsuccessful. Rescue workers and divers retrieved his body, dressed in a white T-shirt and black jeans, within five minutes from the bank of the moat. Mr. B, a 28-year-old ladyboy from Muang Nakhon Ratchasima District, revealed that the two met earlier that evening at a Thai-style pavilion near the Thao Suranaree (Ya Mo) monument. They struck up a friendly conversation and decided to move to the quieter area near the moat. As they conversed, the man suddenly experienced a seizure. Mr. B initially thought he was joking, but his condition quickly worsened. The man, who had previously mentioned his chronic illness, rolled into the canal. Realising the severity of the situation, Mr. B immediately sought help from authorities. However, despite their swift response, it was too late, and the man drowned. The Sawang Metta Thammasathan Rescue Unit transported the body to Maharat Nakhon Ratchasima Hospital's Forensic Medicine Institute for an autopsy to confirm the exact cause of death. This tragic incident underscores the dangers faced by those with chronic illnesses and highlights the importance of having a medical alert device, especially in vulnerable moments. Our thoughts go out to the victim’s family and friends during this difficult time. Picture courtesy: CH7 -- 2024-08-09 - 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

Bank of Thailand Holds Interest Rate Steady at 2.5% Amid Inflation Concerns Bank of Thailand. Picture courtesy: MGR online The Bank of Thailand is anticipated to maintain the benchmark interest rate at 2.5% in its forthcoming meeting, responding to the gradual rise in inflation back within its target range. Experts are calling for more government stimulus, alongside existing digital wallet schemes, to invigorate the sluggish economy. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335059-bank-of-thailand-holds-interest-rate-steady-at-25-amid-inflation-concerns/

The Bank of Thailand is anticipated to maintain the benchmark interest rate at 2.5% in its forthcoming meeting, responding to the gradual rise in inflation back within its target range. Experts are calling for more government stimulus, alongside existing digital wallet schemes, to invigorate the sluggish economy. Headline inflation edged up to 0.8% last month, exceeding the consensus estimate of 0.7% and June's 0.6% rise. This nearing alignment with the central bank's inflation target range of 1-3% was highlighted by Maybank economists in Kuala Lumpur. Core inflation also rose, hitting 0.5% from June’s 0.4%, marking a peak in six months, according to Erica Tay, Maybank’s Director of Macro Research. “The phasing out of electricity subsidies in the latter half of 2024 could drive headline inflation higher. We project the consumer price index (CPI) to average 0.9% this year, rising to 1.8% next year,” Tay elaborated. The central bank remarked, “Consumer confidence continues to wane due to higher living costs from rising energy prices and concerns over the tepid recovery of the Thai economy.” Tourism remains vital, with tourist arrivals hitting 21 million year-to-date, a 33% year-on-year increase, as per Tay’s insights. With the CPI gradually climbing back to the target range and a forecasted increase in public spending in the latter half of the year, the Bank of Thailand is less likely to reduce its policy rate at the August 21 meeting, as noted by Maybank. Looking ahead, Maybank predicts a rate cut of 0.25 percentage points to 2.25% next year, maintaining their GDP growth forecasts at 2.4% for this year and 2.8% for 2025. The Bangkok Post reports that Bank of America (BoA) noted Thailand’s July CPI aligned with expectations but was slightly above the consensus forecast due to rising oil and food prices. BoA's Pipat Luengnaruemitchai stated, “Thai inflation remains relatively low year-on-year compared to regional countries. We foresee a minor dip in August inflation due to the base effect but anticipate a rise above 1% in Q4 due to last year's low energy price base.” Economists like Nattaphon Khamthakruea from Yuanta Securities and Amonthep Chawla from CIMB Thai Bank expressed concerns that economic growth may dip below 2% this year, especially depending on the imminent Constitutional Court ruling regarding Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. They advocate for immediate stimulus measures to boost the economy. TOP: Bank of Thailand. Picture courtesy: MGR online -- 2024-08-09 - 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

HP Considers Thailand Amid Shift in PC Production from China Picture courtesy: Bangkok Biz News Hewlett-Packard (HP) is exploring a significant shift in its production strategy, aiming to relocate a substantial portion of its PC manufacturing operations from China to Thailand. https://aseannow.com/topic/1335057-hp-considers-thailand-amid-shift-in-pc-production-from-china/Full story:

Picture courtesy: Bangkok Biz News Hewlett-Packard (HP) is exploring a significant shift in its production strategy, aiming to relocate a substantial portion of its PC manufacturing operations from China to Thailand. This move is influenced by ongoing geopolitical concerns and potential risks associated with the US-China relationship. HP, an American IT giant, is reportedly in discussions with its suppliers to execute this transition within the next two to three years, as highlighted by a recent Nikkei Asia report. The company aspires to have up to 70% of its notebook production outside of China eventually. Additionally, HP is planning to establish a backup design hub in Singapore to further diversify its operations. According to the report, HP is actively coordinating with at least five suppliers to set up new manufacturing and warehouse facilities in Thailand. Since the beginning of the year, two of these suppliers have been expanding their capacities at HP’s request. An executive involved with the plans commented, "HP is betting big on building a production hub in Thailand. While we have other Southeast Asian facilities, they were deemed insufficient, prompting the need for a new factory in Thailand.” Other sources within HP have emphasised the growing business opportunities in Southeast Asia and the Middle East, while also pointing out the geopolitical risks associated with maintaining a large manufacturing base in China. These risks have been exacerbated by ongoing US-China tensions and disruptions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. HP's strategic shift underscores the broader trend of companies reassessing their reliance on Chinese manufacturing amid global supply chain uncertainties. By exploring new production hubs in Thailand, HP aims to mitigate potential disruptions and leverage new markets, ensuring business continuity and growth in a volatile global landscape. -- 2024-08-09 - 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

UN 'Deeply Concerned' by Thailand’s Opposition Party Ban Former leader of Move Forward Party, Pita Limjaroenrat, center, arrives at Move Forward Party headquarter in Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024. (AP Photo/Rach Sumetlak) The United Nations has voiced deep concern after Thailand's Constitutional Court dissolved the Move Forward Party (MFP), a prominent pro-democracy opposition group, on Wednesday. The court's unanimous decision effectively bans MFP's executive board from political activities for the next decade. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335051-un-deeply-concerned-by-thailand’s-opposition-party-ban/

Former leader of Move Forward Party, Pita Limjaroenrat, center, arrives at Move Forward Party headquarter in Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024. (AP Photo/Rach Sumetlak) The United Nations has voiced deep concern after Thailand's Constitutional Court dissolved the Move Forward Party (MFP), a prominent pro-democracy opposition group, on Wednesday. The court's unanimous decision effectively bans MFP's executive board from political activities for the next decade. UN human rights chief Volker Turk expressed grave worries in a statement, saying, "This decision seriously impacts fundamental freedoms of expression and association, and people's right to participate in public affairs and political life in Thailand." Turk highlighted the severity of penalising a party and its leaders for championing legal reforms, particularly those in support of human rights. MFP, which garnered significant support in last year's general election, had campaigned vigorously to amend Thailand's stringent royal defamation laws. The laws, known as lese-majeste, criminalise defamation, insults, or threats to the monarchy, often resulting in lengthy prison sentences. Turk and various human rights bodies have long criticised these laws for being inconsistent with the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Turk labelled the court's ruling as "deeply troubling" and reiterated past concerns regarding the lese-majeste laws. "I call on the government to find pathways to ensure a vibrant, strong and inclusive democracy that promotes and respects the rights to freedom of expression and association and end the use of lese-majeste laws to suppress critical voices," he said. Emphasising the importance of diverse political voices, Turk added, "A diversity of voices and opinions is fundamental to ensuring respect and protection of human rights and achieving peaceful social and economic development." The dissolution of MFP raises questions about the future of Thailand's pro-democracy movement and the broader implications for political expression in the country. The international community will undoubtedly continue to monitor the situation closely, as calls for democratic reform and human rights take centre stage. -- 2024-08-09 - 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

Thai gear shift: BOI revs up JV incentives for global auto partners by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Bangkok Motor Show Thailand announced incentives to encourage joint ventures (JV) between Thai and foreign companies to produce automotive parts for various propulsion systems, the Board of Investment (BOI) revealed yesterday.' Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335050-thai-gear-shift-boi-revs-up-jv-incentives-for-global-auto-partners/

Thailand announced incentives to encourage joint ventures (JV) between Thai and foreign companies to produce automotive parts for various propulsion systems, the Board of Investment (BOI) revealed yesterday. Recognised as Southeast Asia’s leading automotive production hub, Thailand also serves as a significant export base for prominent global car manufacturers. The government is keenly promoting investments in electric vehicles (EVs), offering incentives to attract major corporations to the sector. Eligible for these incentives are both new projects and existing parts manufacturers transitioning into a JV. These entities can receive an additional two years of tax exemption, with a maximum period of eight years, provided they apply by the end of 2025, according to the BOI. To meet the criteria, a new JV must invest a minimum of 100 million baht (US$2.82 million) in auto parts manufacturing. The JV must consist of both a Thai and a foreign company, with the local firm being at least 60% Thai-owned and contributing a minimum of 30% of the JV’s registered capital, said a BOI spokesperson. “These incentives are aimed at boosting Thailand’s automotive industry, particularly in the EV sector.” Additionally, on Wednesday, the BOI approved an investment by Hyundai Motor Company, a South Korean automaker, valued at 1 billion baht (US$28 million). Hyundai plans to establish a facility for assembling EVs and batteries in Thailand, the spokesperson added. New incentives “The investment by Hyundai signifies a significant step towards positioning Thailand as a key player in the global EV market.” The new incentives align with Thailand’s broader strategy to enhance its automotive sector’s competitiveness and sustainability. The government’s focus on EVs reflects a global shift towards greener technologies and reduced carbon footprints. “We are committed to transforming Thailand into a regional hub for electric vehicle production,” the BOI representative emphasized. These measures are part of a broader effort to attract foreign direct investment and foster technology transfer, which is expected to benefit the local automotive industry. “By encouraging joint ventures, we aim to leverage the strengths of both Thai and foreign companies, fostering innovation and growth,” the spokesperson noted. The initiative also underscores Thailand’s ambition to become a leader in the next generation of automotive manufacturing, embracing advancements in EV technology and sustainable practices. “This is an exciting time for Thailand’s automotive industry, and we are optimistic about the future,” the BOI official concluded. With these incentives, Thailand hopes to attract more global players to invest in the country’s automotive sector, driving economic growth and technological advancement. by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Bangkok Motor Show Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-09 - 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

Activist Urges Quick Legal Action Against Move Forward MPs Former leader of Move Forward Party Pita Limjaroenrat talks to reporter with lawmakers from Move Forward Party during press conference at Move Forward Party headquarter in Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Political activist Ruangkrai Leekitwattana has urgently called upon the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) to hasten the prosecution of 44 former Move Forward Party MPs. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335049-activist-urges-quick-legal-action-against-move-forward-mps/

Former leader of Move Forward Party Pita Limjaroenrat talks to reporter with lawmakers from Move Forward Party during press conference at Move Forward Party headquarter in Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Political activist Ruangkrai Leekitwattana has urgently called upon the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) to hasten the prosecution of 44 former Move Forward Party MPs. These MPs had endorsed amendments to the country's lèse majesté law (Section 112), which is considered a grave offence in Thailand. In a press conference today, Ruangkrai revealed he had sent a pressing letter to the NACC. This letter requested access to the Constitutional Court's recent ruling against the Move Forward Party, aiming to use it as critical evidence against the accused MPs. The allegation against them is gross ethical misconduct. The dissolved Move Forward Party had introduced five draft bills to amend the lèse majesté law. The most contentious of these sought to relocate the lèse majesté provisions from the defamation section to a new chapter, specifically aimed at protecting the honour of the King, Queen, Heir Apparent, and Regent. Ruangkrai highlighted that the Constitutional Court had already determined that the party’s actions aimed to overthrow democracy under a constitutional monarchy. The court also ruled that their continuous push for these amendments sought to diminish the monarchy's status. "According to the ruling, the actions of these 44 MPs violate Section 234 (1) of the Constitution," Ruangkrai stated. Thirayuth Suwankesorn, a lawyer, had previously requested the NACC to examine these MPs' conduct. He had also petitioned the Election Commission, accusing the Move Forward Party and its former leader, Pita Limjaroenrat, of attempting to destabilise democracy under a constitutional monarchy. Earlier this year, on January 31st, the Constitutional Court found both Pita and the party guilty and ordered them to halt all activities related to amending the lèse majesté law. This ruling has paved the way for Ruangkrai and others to push for rapid legal proceedings against the former MPs. This situation remains highly sensitive and continues to stir significant public and political discourse in Thailand. -- 2024-08-09 - 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

Government to Crack Down on Low-Quality Chinese Imports File photo for reference only. Courtesy: ThaiSMEeCenter In a bid to protect local businesses, the Thai Ministry of Commerce is considering stringent measures against the influx of cheap and substandard products from China. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335048-government-to-crack-down-on-low-quality-chinese-imports/