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Two Foreign Tourists Arrested for Selling Ecstasy on Koh Phangan Picture courtesy: Matichon Two foreign tourists have been arrested on the popular Thai island of Koh Phangan for allegedly selling ecstasy and illegally operating a barbershop. The arrests, made by local tourist police, occurred on 7 August. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334962-two-foreign-tourists-arrested-for-selling-ecstasy-on-koh-phangan/

Two foreign tourists have been arrested on the popular Thai island of Koh Phangan for allegedly selling ecstasy and illegally operating a barbershop. The arrests, made by local tourist police, occurred on 7 August. Ms. Libby, a 27-year-old Israeli national, was apprehended with 1.4 grams of ecstasy in her possession. She was charged with possessing illegal drugs, and she reportedly expressed deep remorse for her actions during the arrest. Ms. Libby was found to have been involved in selling the drug, which has raised significant concerns among local authorities. Meanwhile, the police also arrested Mr. Vladislav, a 29-year-old Russian national, at his residence on the island. Upon investigating, it was discovered that Mr. Vladislav had been running an unlicensed barbershop and promoting his services through the messaging app Telegram. Operating such a business without proper permits is a violation of Thai law, compounding the legal trouble for the foreign national. Both suspects were taken to the Koh Phangan Police Station for further interrogation and legal proceedings. The police are also conducting a broader investigation to trace and dismantle any networks associated with the drug trade on the island. Koh Phangan, renowned for its Full Moon Parties and idyllic beaches, has been a popular destination for tourists. However, instances of drug and other illegal activities have occasionally surfaced, prompting local authorities to maintain vigilance, reported Matichon. The arrests serve as a stern reminder to visitors about abiding by local laws and the severe consequences of engaging in illegal activities. The island authorities have reiterated their commitment to ensuring the safety and legal compliance of everyone on Koh Phangan. As the investigation continues, it is expected that further actions will be taken to prevent such incidents and maintain the island's reputation as a safe and enjoyable destination for tourists from around the world. Picture courtesy: Matichon -- 2024-08-08 - 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 to finalise revised EEC high-speed rail contract by next month Picture courtesy: MGR online Government officials anticipate finalising the revised contract for the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) high-speed rail system by next month, paving the way for the project’s next phase. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334960-thailand-to-finalise-revised-eec-high-speed-rail-contract-by-next-month/

Government officials anticipate finalising the revised contract for the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) high-speed rail system by next month, paving the way for the project’s next phase. The high-speed rail system, a cornerstone project for the EEC, aims to connect Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi, and U-Tapao airports, improving connectivity and boosting regional economic development. The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) and Asia Era One, a consortium led by the Charoen Pokphand Group, originally signed the contract in 2019, which included a concession agreement for operating the Airport Rail Link (ARL). During the Covid-19 pandemic, Asia Era One sought compensation due to a significant decline in ARL passenger numbers. The Cabinet approved a contract revision in 2021 to address this issue. EEC Secretary-General Chula Sukmanop mentioned this week that the contract adjustments will focus on the financial collateral required from the consortium and the government’s expedited payment for construction work. He expects the revised agreement will be submitted to the EEC Policy Committee by mid-September. Once approved, the details will be reviewed by the Office of the Attorney-General before being sent to the Cabinet for final approval. The EEC aims to sign the contract with the consortium before the end of the year. A source from the SRT revealed that the consortium has agreed to pay the 10.6-billion-baht concession fee in seven instalments starting this year. Financial constraints caused by the pandemic, the global economy, and high interest rates have necessitated a condition for the government to expedite a 119-billion-baht payment before the 18th instalment following the issuance of a Notice to Proceed, rather than after construction is completed. To mitigate risks and ensure ongoing construction, the consortium has agreed to provide bank guarantees amounting to approximately 100 billion baht. These funds will be gradually returned upon project completion. Additionally, the new contract eliminates the need for investment promotion certificates, allowing the SRT to issue the Notice to Proceed and enable the consortium to access construction sites more efficiently. The private partner must provide the financial guarantee within 270 days of signing the amended contract. Efforts are also underway to resolve land issues associated with the U-Tapao Airport and Eastern Aviation City project. Construction is expected to take five years, with the project now anticipated to open in 2029, five years behind the original schedule. Picture courtesy: MGR online -- 2024-08-08 - 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

US and EU express concern over the demise of Thailand's Move Forward party 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 States and the European Union voiced strong concerns on Wednesday following the Constitutional Court of Thailand's decision to dissolve the opposition party, Move Forward. The verdict raises alarm about the country's democratic trajectory, especially considering Move Forward's significant electoral support. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334959-us-and-eu-express-concern-over-the-demise-of-thailands-move-forward-party/

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 States and the European Union voiced strong concerns on Wednesday following the Constitutional Court of Thailand's decision to dissolve the opposition party, Move Forward. The verdict raises alarm about the country's democratic trajectory, especially considering Move Forward's significant electoral support. In a statement, the US State Department highlighted the potential threat to Thailand's democratic progress. “This decision jeopardises Thailand’s democratic progress and runs counter to the aspirations of the Thai people for a strong, democratic future,” said spokesperson Matthew Miller. The department emphasised that the ruling disenfranchises over 14 million voters who supported Move Forward in the May 2023 elections. The EU described the ruling as a setback for political pluralism, stressing the importance of a multi-party system for democracy. "No democratic system can function without a plurality of parties and candidates," stated the European External Action Service. The Move Forward Party had earned 14 million votes in the last general election, showing strong public support. Human rights organisations also condemned the court's decision. Amnesty International called the ruling "untenable" and accused the Thai government of using legal means to silence dissent. The Asian Forum for Human Rights echoed these concerns, highlighting severe risks to democratic principles in Thailand, reported Bangkok Post. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin expressed optimism, believing that Move Forward would navigate through the recent political turmoil. He downplayed fears that the dissolution would weaken the opposition, suggesting that investor sentiment and political stability would likely remain unaffected. Political economist Somjai Phagaphasvivat opined that the party’s dissolution would have minimal impact on governance and investment, predicting only brief protests. However, Varakorn Samakoses, an economics expert, cautioned that the dissolution might induce medium- and long-term uncertainties among investors regarding the nation’s policies. This recent development marks the third dissolution of a political party under the current constitution, following the disbandment of Thai Raksa Chart in 2019 and the Future Forward Party in 2020. As Thailand navigates these turbulent political waters, the international community remains watchful. -- 2024-08-08 - 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

UPDATE: Thailand Secures Historic Gold and Multiple Medals at Paris Olympics by Naark Rojanasuvan PARIS (NNT) - Thailand now ranks 31st at the Paris Olympics, with a total of 1 gold, 2 silver, and 2 bronze medals. This achievement underscores the nation's prowess in various sports on the global stage. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334954-paris-olympics-thailand’s-panipak-wins-historic-flyweight-gold/?do=findComment&comment=19129977

Thailand Secures Historic Gold and Multiple Medals at Paris Olympics by Naark Rojanasuvan PARIS (NNT) - Thailand now ranks 31st at the Paris Olympics, with a total of 1 gold, 2 silver, and 2 bronze medals. This achievement underscores the nation's prowess in various sports on the global stage. (Panipak Wongpattanakit known as Tennis) Panipak Wongpattanakit made history on Wednesday by becoming the first person from Thailand to win two gold medals. She defended her Tokyo title in the taekwondo women's flyweight division against China's Guo Qing. Panipak secured the victory with a 6-3, 2-3, 6-2 win, clinching the match with two kicks to the head, each yielding three points. This final match was the most challenging she faced throughout the day, having sailed through all earlier bouts with two-round wins. In other events, Theerapong Silachai won a silver medal in the Men's 61 kg weightlifting event. Surajana Khampao also brought home a bronze medal in the Women's 49 kg weightlifting event. These accomplishments highlight Thailand's impressive performance at the Paris Olympics, bringing pride and inspiration to the nation. Source: NNT 2024-08-08 - 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 weightlifters sparkle in Paris with Olympic silver and bronze Picture courtesy Facbook/Thai Rath Two Thai weightlifters, Theerapong Silachai and Surodchana Khambao, delivered stunning performances at the Paris Olympics, clinching silver and bronze medals respectively last night. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334957-thai-weightlifters-sparkle-in-paris-with-olympic-silver-and-bronze/

Two Thai weightlifters, Theerapong Silachai and Surodchana Khambao, delivered stunning performances at the Paris Olympics, clinching silver and bronze medals respectively last night. Theerapong Silachai, a 21-year-old athlete, earned the silver medal in the Men’s 61 kg weightlifting category, making history as the first Thai male to capture an Olympic silver in weightlifting. Silachai, despite being the sixth-ranked qualifier, was the only competitor to successfully complete all six of his attempts. He recorded a total lift of 132 kg in the snatch and 171 kg in the clean and jerk, amounting to an impressive 303 kg. His final tally surpassed the 300 kg mark for the very first time, falling just 7 kg short of the gold medalist, China’s Li Fabin. In the Women's 49 kg event, Surodchana Khambao secured a bronze medal with an overall lift of 200 kg. Khambao, already an esteemed athlete with a commendable history, has previously won three gold medals in the Women's 53 kg category at the 2018 Junior World Weightlifting Championships in Tashkent. She also claimed a bronze in the same weight class at the 2018 Asian Games in Jakarta and narrowly missed out on a podium finish at the 2023 World Weightlifting Championships in Riyadh by finishing fourth. Thailand's success in weightlifting at the Paris Olympics underscores the nation’s strength in the sport, especially considering the intense competition. These remarkable achievements by Silachai and Khambao have not only brought pride to their country but also inspire budding athletes in Thailand and beyond. With their impressive performances, the future for Thai weightlifting looks brighter than ever, setting the stage for Thailand to potentially dominate in future international competitions. Picture courtesy Facbook/Thai Rath -- 2024-08-08 - 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

Belgian Man Rescued from Locked Car After Fan Drains Battery Picture courtesy: 3Plus NEWS In a peculiar and tense situation, a Belgian man found himself trapped inside his car after the battery drained, rendering the doors inoperable. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334956-belgian-man-rescued-from-locked-car-after-fan-drains-battery/

In a peculiar and tense situation, a Belgian man found himself trapped inside his car after the battery drained, rendering the doors inoperable. The incident unfolded at a gas station in Kamphaeng Phet Province, where the man had taken a short nap after a long drive. Around 2:00 a.m. on August 7, 2024, officers from the Kamphaeng Phet News Image Rescue Foundation received an urgent call from a concerned convenience store employee. The employee had noticed the man trapped inside a locked red BMW and promptly sought assistance. The rescue team swiftly arrived at the scene to find the car doors unresponsive due to an entirely drained battery. Inside, the 40-year-old Belgian tourist was visibly distressed and weakened. Rescue officers repeatedly tried to instruct the man to press the unlock button, but their efforts proved futile without a functional electrical system. As time ticked on and the man’s condition visibly worsened due to stifling heat and plummeting oxygen levels, the rescuers made the tough decision to break the car window. Smashing the glass was the only viable option to prevent any further danger to the man’s health. Thankfully, the quick intervention worked, and the foreigner emerged from the vehicle, albeit feeble and faint from the ordeal. The Belgian tourist, who had journeyed from Chiang Rai to Chonburi, explained that he had parked at the gas station to rest, allowing the fan to run while he slept. Unfortunately, the fan’s continuous operation drained the car’s battery completely. Feeling trapped, he struggled to escape until the convenience store employee noticed his plight and alerted the authorities. The entire operation lasted nearly two hours, but thanks to the diligent efforts of the rescuers, the man was ultimately guided to safety. After receiving immediate assistance, including provisions from the tourist police, he was able to continue his journey, much relieved and wiser. Picture courtesy: 3Plus NEWS -- 2024-08-08 - 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

Statement by Matthew Miller, Spokesperson on the Dissolution of Move Forward Party in Thailand U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334955-us-embassy-statement-on-the-dissolution-of-move-forward-party-in-thailand/

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release STATEMENT BY MATTHEW MILLER, SPOKESPERSON August 7, 2024 On the Dissolution of Move Forward Party in Thailand The United States is deeply concerned by Thailand’s Constitutional Court ruling today ordering the dissolution of the Move Forward Party and the banning of 11 of its leaders from politics. This decision disenfranchises the more than 14 million Thais who voted for the Move Forward Party in the May 2023 election and raises questions about their representation within Thailand’s electoral system. The Constitutional Court’s decision also jeopardizes Thailand’s democratic progress and runs counter to the aspirations of the Thai people for a strong, democratic future. Inclusive political participation strengthens social cohesion and is a critical component of resilient national institutions. The United States does not take a position in support of any political party, but as a close ally and friend with deep and enduring ties, we urge Thailand to take actions to ensure fully inclusive political participation, and to protect democracy and the freedoms of association and expression. Source: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE 2024-08-08 - 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

Paris Olympics: Thailand’s Panipak wins historic flyweight gold Thailand erupted with joy last night as Panipak Wongpattanakit defended her Tokyo Olympics title, winning the country's first-ever back-to-back gold in taekwondo at the Paris Games. The 29-year-old became a national icon by overpowering China’s Guo Qing in a thrilling final match. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334954-paris-olympics-thailand’s-panipak-wins-historic-flyweight-gold/

Thailand erupted with joy last night as Panipak Wongpattanakit defended her Tokyo Olympics title, winning the country's first-ever back-to-back gold in taekwondo at the Paris Games. The 29-year-old became a national icon by overpowering China’s Guo Qing in a thrilling final match. Panipak secured her place in history with a nail-biting 6-3, 2-3, 6-2 victory. Her decisive head kicks in the final round crushed her opponent's hopes, showcasing the skill and poise that have made her a legend in her sport. This monumental win makes her the first Thai athlete to win two Olympic gold medals, a feat that cast a wave of pride across the nation. The victory wasn’t easy. The final was the most gruelling match Panipak faced that day, having previously breezed through the earlier rounds with two-round victories. But her determination and fighting spirit saw her through to clinch the gold. Immediately after the match, Panipak confirmed her plans to retire, seizing the moment by draping herself in the Thai flag and leaping into her coach’s arms. "I have so much pain," she said, referring to her lingering injuries. "I have a broken knee, my ankle, my hip... Now, I have to retire." Her retirement marks the end of an illustrious career. Panipak leaves behind a legacy that will inspire future generations of Thai athletes. She hinted at her future plans with a shimmer of hope, mentioning, "I have a gym in Thailand. If you want to train with me, come to Thailand." This win not only crowns her journey but also positions Thailand prominently on the world’s taekwondo stage. Panipak's historic achievement will stand as a testament to her dedication and the unyielding spirit of Thai athletes. -- 2024-08-08 - 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

Severe monsoon warning issued for Thailand with heavy rainfall by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of Nikolas Behrendt, Unsplash The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued a warning for severe monsoon conditions across Thailand, particularly in the northeast and eastern regions, with heavy to very heavy rainfall expected. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334953-severe-monsoon-warning-issued-for-thailand-with-heavy-rainfall/

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued a warning for severe monsoon conditions across Thailand, particularly in the northeast and eastern regions, with heavy to very heavy rainfall expected. Residents are advised to be cautious of sudden flooding and flash floods, while the sea will experience waves up to 2 metres high, prompting advisories for sailors to avoid navigating the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea. The Thai Meteorological Department forecasts weather conditions for the next 24 hours, indicating a continuing influence of the southwesterly monsoon covering the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand. Additionally, a low-pressure area over northern Vietnam contributes to persistent thunderstorms and heavy rainfall in several parts of northern, eastern, and southern Thailand. The public is urged to be vigilant for potential flash floods and rapid water flow, particularly in areas near slopes, watercourses, and low-lying regions. The upper Andaman Sea, stretching from Ranong province upwards, is expected to have sea waves ranging from 1 to 2 metres. In regions experiencing thunderstorms, waves may exceed 2 metres. Mariners are advised to exercise caution and avoid sailing in areas with thunderstorms during this period. Issued on August 8, the weather forecast for Thailand from 6am today to 6am tomorrow is as follows: In the north, there will be thunderstorms affecting 60% of the area, with heavy rainfall in Tak, Kamphaeng Phet, Phichit, Phitsanulok, and Phetchabun provinces. Temperatures will range from 23 to 25 degrees Celsius at the lowest and 32 to 35 degrees Celsius at the highest. The southwesterly winds will blow at a speed of 5 to 15 kilometres per hour. The northeast will experience thunderstorms in 40% of the region, mainly affecting Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Chaiyaphum, Khon Kaen, and Nakhon Ratchasima provinces. Temperatures will range from 24 to 26 degrees Celsius at the lowest and 34 to 35 degrees Celsius at the highest. The southwesterly winds will blow at a speed of 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. Monsoon warning In the central region, thunderstorms will cover 60% of the area, particularly in Nakhon Sawan, Uthai Thani, Lopburi, Saraburi, Kanchanaburi, and Ratchaburi provinces. Temperatures will range from 24 to 25 degrees Celsius at the lowest and 34 to 35 degrees Celsius at the highest. The southwesterly winds will blow at a speed of 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. The eastern region will see thunderstorms in 60% of the area, with heavy rainfall in Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat provinces. Temperatures will range from 25 to 27 degrees Celsius at the lowest and 31 to 35 degrees Celsius at the highest. The southwesterly winds will blow at a speed of 15 to 30 kilometres per hour, and the sea will have waves about 1 metre high, with areas experiencing thunderstorms seeing waves exceeding 2 metres. In the southern region (eastern coast), thunderstorms will affect 40% of the area, with heavy rainfall in Phatthalung, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat provinces. Temperatures will range from 23 to 26 degrees Celsius at the lowest and 33 to 35 degrees Celsius at the highest. The southwesterly winds will blow at a speed of 15 to 30 kilometres per hour, and the sea will have waves about 1 metre high, with areas experiencing thunderstorms seeing waves exceeding 1 metre. In the southern region (western coast), there will be thunderstorms in 60% of the area, with heavy rainfall in Phuket, Krabi, Trang, and Satun provinces. Temperatures will range from 23 to 25 degrees Celsius at the lowest and 30 to 32 degrees Celsius at the highest. From Ranong province upwards, the southwesterly winds will blow at a speed of 15 to 35 kilometres per hour, and the sea will have waves ranging from 1 to 2 metres, with areas experiencing thunderstorms seeing waves exceeding 2 metres. From Phang Nga province downwards, the southwesterly winds will blow at a speed of 15 to 30 kilometres per hour, and the sea will have waves about 1 metre high, with areas experiencing thunderstorms seeing waves exceeding 1 metre, reported KhaoSod. Bangkok and its surrounding areas will face thunderstorms in 60% of the region, with heavy rainfall in some areas. Temperatures will range from 25 to 26 degrees Celsius at the lowest and 33 to 34 degrees Celsius at the highest. The southwesterly winds will blow at a speed of 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of Nikolas Behrendt, Unsplash Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-08 - 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 8 August 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334951-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-thursday-8-august-2024/

Following the dissolution of the Move Forward Party by the Constitutional Court yesterday, former key members announced plans to unveil a new party this Friday. The former party leader expressed concern, stating the court's ruling "risks affecting the fundamental values of the democratic system." Deputy leader Siri-kanya Tan-sakun is expected to lead the new formation in response to the court's decision. Truckers in the Northeast are calling on the government to lower the price of diesel or raise cargo transport fees to keep up with rising energy costs The Transport Association president said that about 5,000 trucks are no longer in use and finance companies have seized about 3,000 because their owners were unable to repay their loans. Four Thai students won one gold medal and three silver medals at the first International Nuclear Science Olympiad held in the philippines. Its aim was to expand knowledge young people, inspire them to become the change-makers of the future and create an international network for nuclear energy. There were 55 contenders from 14 Asia-Pacific countries. Around the region South Korea could rupture its U.S. alliance and shock financial markets if it started building nuclear weapons, this according to Defence Minister Shin Won-sik, he dismissed renewed domestic calls for the country's to develop it’s own arsenal to deter North Korea. Todays Weather Chiang Mai and the north: Thundershowers 32C degrees celsius Bangkok: Cloudy with some Thundershowers 33 Pattaya: Thundershowers 32 Phuket and the south: Thundershowers 29 Hua Hin: Bright start becoming cloudy with showers this afternoon 32 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 2024-08-08 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Constitutional Court Insists All Respect Move Forward Party Verdict Pita Limjaroenrat. Foreig diplomats. File photo courtesy: Facebook/ทุกคนคะ-จากกรณีคุณพิธา-ลงภาพคู่ท่านทูตและเจ้าหน้าที่จากประเทศในยุโรปเข้ามาพูด Thailand's Constitutional Court has today called for respect from all quarters, including academics, politicians, and foreign diplomats, following its decision to dissolve the Move Forward Party. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334946-constitutional-court-insists-all-respect-move-forward-party-verdict/

Pita Limjaroenrat. Foreig diplomats. File photo courtesy: Facebook/ทุกคนคะ-จากกรณีคุณพิธา-ลงภาพคู่ท่านทูตและเจ้าหน้าที่จากประเทศในยุโรปเข้ามาพูด Thailand's Constitutional Court has today called for respect from all quarters, including academics, politicians, and foreign diplomats, following its decision to dissolve the Move Forward Party. The Court's ruling, grounded in severe violations of political party laws, marks a significant moment in the nation's political landscape. In its verdict, the Court emphasised the importance of respecting judicial decisions and adhering to international diplomatic protocols. According to the Court, the dissolution was necessary to uphold political laws that apply equally to all parties. The verdict stated, “Each country has its own constitution and internal legislation, which differ from other countries’. Therefore, any expression of opinion should be conducted according to international and diplomatic standards.” This statement underscores the Court's expectation for diplomatic entities to approach the issue with respect for the nation’s legal framework. The Court also noted that the Move Forward Party's actions posed a threat to the country's democracy under a constitutional monarchy. By dissolving the party and barring its executives from politics for ten years, the Court aims to safeguard the democratic process and uphold the rule of law. The ruling has not only stirred local political circles but has also drawn international attention. Prior to the decision, a group of European Union diplomats met with Move Forward Party's former leader, Pita Limjaroenrat, in a move interpreted as support for the party and an attempt to influence the Court’s decision. Additionally, some ASEAN parliamentarians have publicly opposed the dissolution. This case highlights the delicate balance between domestic law and international diplomatic relations. As the dust settles, the call for respect and adherence to mutual protocols will test the international community's response to internal judicial processes. -- 2024-08-08 - 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

Amnesty International Condemns Dissolution of Thailand’s Move Forward Party A supporter of the Move Forward Party reacts at the party headquarters after the Constitutional Court ordered the dissolution of the party in Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Amnesty International has strongly criticised the dissolution of Thailand's main opposition party, Move Forward, calling it a grave blow to human rights in the country. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334945-amnesty-international-condemns-dissolution-of-thailand’s-move-forward-party/

A supporter of the Move Forward Party reacts at the party headquarters after the Constitutional Court ordered the dissolution of the party in Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Amnesty International has strongly criticised the dissolution of Thailand's main opposition party, Move Forward, calling it a grave blow to human rights in the country. The condemnation comes after Thailand’s Constitutional Court decided to dissolve the party for proposing reforms, sparking concerns over freedom of expression and political repression. Amnesty International’s Senior Director, Deprose Muchena, voiced dismay at the court’s ruling, stating, "Dissolving the party, merely for advocating for reform, constitutes a serious violation of the rights to freedom of expression and association of lawmakers, who were simply performing their duty of proposing laws." Muchena added, "The authorities’ relentless harassment of the political opposition starkly contradicts Thailand's public commitment to human rights, especially as it seeks a seat on the UN Human Rights Council." The Move Forward party, which had garnered significant public support in recent years, was seen as a vital voice advocating for democratic reforms in Thailand. The court’s decision to dissolve the party has led to widespread outrage among its supporters. Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin called for calm, urging all sides to accept the court’s decision. "I believe the Move Forward party has a plan and means to continue its political activities," the Prime Minister remarked, attempting to quell rising tensions. Meanwhile, student groups across Thailand have announced plans for rallies to protest against the court’s decision. The Department of Humanitarian and Human Rights Affairs of the Chulalongkorn University Student’s Club has organised a gathering at Pathumwan skywalk in Bangkok, set for 6 pm this evening. Additionally, law faculties at Thammasat and Chiang Mai Universities will hold rallies on their campuses, while students at Maha Sarakham University have planned a separate demonstration. As Thailand grapples with this political upheaval, the international community watches closely, concerned about the implications for democracy and human rights in the country. -- 2024-08-08 - 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

Ex-Move Forward Members Set to Launch New Political Party 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) Just hours after the Move Forward Party was dissolved by the Constitutional Court, its former key members announced that they will unveil a new party this Friday to continue their political efforts. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334944-ex-move-forward-members-set-to-launch-new-political-party/