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Thai PM Criticised for Fashion Choices at Global Summit video screenshot A former fashion magazine columnist, now based in the US, has criticised Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s fashion choices during her attendance at the 31st Apec Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Peru. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344016-thai-pm-criticised-for-fashion-choices-at-global-summit/

Foreign man flees after sexually assaulting Thai woman in condo lift - video File photo for reference only A Thai woman took to social media to seek help in locating a foreign suspect who allegedly stalked and sexually assaulted her in the lift of her condominium. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344023-foreign-man-flees-after-sexually-assaulting-thai-woman-in-condo-lift-video/

to continue: Thailand Live Wednesday 20 November 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1343983-thailand-live-wednesday-20-november-2024/

video screenshot A former fashion magazine columnist, now based in the US, has criticised Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s fashion choices during her attendance at the 31st Apec Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Peru. Mr Kiccha Buranond took to Facebook to express his disapproval of the Prime Minister's attire, comparing it to a tourist's casual outfit that would be deemed inappropriate for visiting Thailand’s revered Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Kiccha particularly objected to Paetongtarn's choice of frayed trousers and trainers upon disembarking in Lima, Peru. According to him, these were unsuitable for someone performing official national duties at an international event. -- 2024-11-20

British Tourist Attacked in Pattaya: Nose Broken, Eye Bruised; Authorities on the Hunt Pattaya police are investigating a violent assault on a British tourist, which occurred on Pattaya Third Road, in the South Pattaya area. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343978-british-tourist-attacked-in-pattaya-nose-broken-eye-bruised-authorities-on-the-hunt/

Thai AGO Declines to Process Case Accusing Former PM Thaksin of Subversion In what is being hailed as a significant shakeup in Thai politics, the Attorney General's Office (AGO) of Thailand has refused to process a politically charged case against former Prime Minister, Thaksin Shinawatra and the governing Pheu Thai Party. The case accuses both parties of trying to subvert democracy in Thailand while the King holds the title of Head of State. Sources state the case was dismissed today, 19th November, by the AGO, citing a lack of sufficient cause for the accusations. However, the decision now lies with the Constitutional Court to further pursue the matter. The case was initially tabled by lawyer Teerayut Suwankesorn earlier this month. It alleges that Thaksin, whose daughter Paetongtarn Shinawatra now leads as Prime Minister, is employing his influence over the ruling Pheu Thai Party to manipulate and destabilise the democratic governance of Thailand. The case, brought to the AGO, claims the actions are a breach of Section 49 of Thailand's constitution. Documents detailing the contentious case were forwarded to the Constitutional Court by the AGO on 8th November, with the court scheduling a hearing for the matter on 22nd November. Despite declining to process the case, the AGO has confirmed that it will supply additional information to the Constitutional Court for their review. This will include evidence of actions by Thaksin and Pheu Thai Party that potentially supports the claims of subversion. As per procedure, the AGO has a 15-day window following the forwarding of case documents to provide this supplemental information, ensuring the Constitutional Court can fully investigate these hefty allegations against a former statesman and ruling political party. This promises to be a critical moment in the unfolding tapestry of Thai politics. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-19

Thai PM Paetongtarn Congratulates Trump; Eyes Stronger US-Thailand Alliance Thailand's youngest-ever Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, ushered in a new diplomatic chapter today in a historic phone call with US President-elect Donald Trump. This development arrives on the cusp of Trump's presidential term and marks an assertive step towards reinforcing US-Thailand relations. The call, held at 9.50am GMT, was marked by the Thai Premier's resounding congratulations to Trump, outlining an exciting vision for the countries' future collaboration. Government spokesperson Jirayu Huangsub disclosed details of the call, signalling the call's significance in Thailand's global outreach strategy. Paetongtarn was emphatic in voicing Thailand’s ensemble readiness to work with Trump's impending administration. “Thailand is eager to foster high-level US engagements and visits" she expressed, extending an open invitation to President Trump personally. This considerate gesture signifies Thailand's keenness to host substantial diplomatic exchanges on its home turf. President-elect Trump responded in kind, expressing admiration for the youthful Thai Prime Minister and her efforts echoed against Thailand's splendid landscapes. “Anything I can do, you just let me know,” exclaimed Trump, reflecting his eager anticipation of further diplomatic and economic ties. Thailand enjoys a historical position as Washington's oldest treaty ally in Asia, wielding a unique influence in dictating regional security. This bond backs the annual joint military exercises held between the two nations, and Trump's response today promises to solidify these ties further. This diplomatic move arrives at a crucial juncture. Trump's proposed tariffs on Chinese goods pave the way for potentially increased Thai exports to the US, Thailand's chief export recipient already. As the Asian trade landscape continues to change, Thailand's Commerce Ministry remains watchful of these shifts, keenly pursuing enhanced export-driven economic growth. Today's historic conversation between these two national leaders showcases a promising outlook for a stronger, economically robust US-Thailand partnership. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-19

Attorney General Declines Action on Thaksin Case File photo courtesy: Sanook The Attorney General's Office (AGO) has decided not to process a case against former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and the Pheu Thai Party. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343990-attorney-general-declines-action-on-thaksin-case/

File photo courtesy: Sanook The Attorney General's Office (AGO) has decided not to process a case against Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and the Pheu Thai Party, who were accused of attempting to overthrow the democratic system with the King as Head of State, violating Section 49 of the constitution. This decision was disclosed on Tuesday, although it won't prevent the Constitutional Court from deliberating the case. The case was initially filed by lawyer Teerayut Suwankesorn earlier this month. Suwankesorn alleged that Thaksin, the father of Prime Minister Paetongtarn, wielded undue influence over the ruling Pheu Thai Party. On 8th November, the AGO forwarded all related documents to the Constitutional Court, which is set to deliberate on 22nd November. According to a source, the AGO found no grounds for the case under Section 49, hence deciding not to proceed with the complaint. Despite the AGO's decision, the Constitutional Court retains the authority to consider the case. The court reportedly requested further details on the specific actions undertaken by the accused that allegedly violated the constitution, as well as the evidence accumulated thus far. The AGO is required to provide this information within 15 days of submitting the case documents to the court, reported The Nation. -- 2024-11-19

Thailand PM Congratulates Donald Trump in Phone Call Photo courtesy: Royal Thai Government Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra had a telephone conversation with Donald Trump, congratulating him on his recent election victory. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343985-thailand-pm-congratulates-donald-trump-in-phone-call/

Photo courtesy: Royal Thai Government Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra had a telephone conversation with Donald Trump, congratulating him on his recent election victory. She confirmed Thailand's willingness to collaborate with the United States. During the conversation, Trump conveyed his appreciation for the Prime Minister. On November 19, 2024, Jirayu Huangsap, spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, stated that at 09.50 a.m., Prime Minister Paetongtarn spoke with Donald J. Trump, the newly elected President of the United States, from Government House. She congratulated Trump on his election win and upcoming term in office. The Prime Minister reassured him of Thailand's readiness to engage closely with the US. Both leaders expressed hope for a future high-level visit to exchange views, with Thailand ready to welcome President Trump. Donald J. Trump expressed his appreciation and complimented Thailand's beauty. He showed interest in the current situation in Thailand and praised the Prime Minister's efforts, offering his support. -- 2024-11-19

TMD sounds the storm alarm as weather takes a wild turn by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Justin Aikin, Unsplash The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued a warning of adverse weather conditions across various regions of Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343972-tmd-sounds-the-storm-alarm-as-weather-takes-a-wild-turn/

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued a warning of adverse weather conditions across various regions of Thailand. The monsoon over the Gulf of Thailand and the southern region is intensifying, bringing thunderstorms and raising sea waves to more than 2 metres. Meanwhile, the northern and northeastern regions are experiencing cooler temperatures with a drop of 1 to 2 degrees Celsius. TMD forecasts for the next 24 hours that a moderate high-pressure system or cold air mass from China is spreading over upper Thailand and the South China Sea. This results in a decrease in temperature by 1 to 2 degrees Celsius, accompanied by strong winds in these areas. The northern and northeastern regions are expected to have cold weather in the mornings, prompting residents to take extra care of their health due to the changing weather conditions. The stronger northeast monsoon affecting the Gulf of Thailand and the southern region is causing thunderstorms in the south. The central part of the Gulf is experiencing moderate winds, while the lower Gulf sees waves between 1 and 2 metres high, with areas of thunderstorms seeing waves surpassing 2 metres. Mariners in these regions are advised to avoid sailing in areas with thunderstorms. Additionally, the powerful tropical storm Man-Yi in the upper South China Sea is expected to approach Hainan Island in China between today and tomorrow. It is anticipated to weaken into a depression and eventually a strong low-pressure cell. Travellers to these areas are urged to check the weather conditions before setting out. Weather forecast In the northern region, the morning will be cool with a temperature drop of one to two degrees Celsius and slight rain in some areas, particularly in the upper part of the region. The lowest temperatures will range from 18 to 24 degrees Celsius, with highs between 31 and 34 degrees Celsius. On mountain peaks, the weather will be cold, with lows of seven to 14 degrees Celsius and northeast winds blowing at speeds of 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. For the northeastern region, morning temperatures will also be cool with strong winds and a drop of 1 to 2 degrees Celsius. The lowest temperatures range from 18 to 22 degrees Celsius, and the highest from 32 to 34 degrees Celsius. On the peaks, the weather is cool to cold, with lows of 13 to 18 degrees Celsius and northeast winds at speeds of 10 to 30 kilometres per hour. In the central region, temperatures will slightly decrease with strong winds. The lowest temperatures are between 22 and 24 degrees Celsius, while the highest is between 32 and 34 degrees Celsius, with northeast winds at 10 to 25 kilometres per hour. The eastern region will see a slight decrease in temperature with strong winds, with the lowest temperatures between 23 and 25 degrees Celsius and the highest between 33 and 34 degrees Celsius. The northeast winds will blow at 15 to 30 kilometres per hour. The sea will have waves about 1 metre high, with waves exceeding 2 metres in areas of thunderstorms. The southern region (east coast) will have thunderstorms covering 40% of the area, especially in the provinces of Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Pattani, and Narathiwat. The lowest temperatures will be 23 to 25 degrees Celsius, with highs of 32 to 34 degrees Celsius. From Nakhon Si Thammarat upwards, northeast winds will blow at 15 to 30 kilometres per hour, and the sea will have waves about 1 metre high, with waves exceeding 2 metres in thunderstorms. From Songkhla downwards, northeast winds will blow at 15 to 35 kilometres per hour, with the sea having waves of 1 to 2 metres, and waves exceeding 2 metres in thunderstorms. The southern region (west coast) will have thunderstorms covering 30% of the area, especially in Phang Nga, Phuket, Krabi, and Trang provinces. The lowest temperatures will be 24 to 26 degrees Celsius, and the highest will be 33 to 34 degrees Celsius. East winds will blow at 15 to 30 kilometres per hour, and the sea will have waves about 1 metre high, with waves exceeding 2 metres in thunderstorms, reported KhaoSod. Bangkok and the surrounding areas will have partly cloudy skies with strong winds. The lowest temperatures will be between 24 and 26 degrees Celsius, and the highest between 33 and 34 degrees Celsius, with northeast winds blowing at 10 to 25 kilometres per hour. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Justin Aikin, Unsplash Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-19

Thai boy hugs mum for last time before taking his own life with aunt’s gun by Petch Petpailin Photo via KomChadLuek A 13 year old Thai boy hugged his mother for the last time before taking his own life with his aunt’s gun at a family home in the central province of Ayutthaya yesterday, November 18. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343970-thai-boy-hugs-mum-for-last-time-before-taking-his-own-life-with-aunt’s-gun/

A 13 year old Thai boy hugged his mother for the last time before taking his own life with his aunt’s gun at a family home in the central province of Ayutthaya yesterday, November 18. Officers from Mueang Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Police Station and rescuers from the Ruam Katanyu Foundation investigated the incident at a house in the Ban Pom sub-district of Mueang district. The single-storey house, which also operated as a food stall, became the site of the tragedy. The boy‘s lifeless body was found in his bedroom. The deceased, identified as 13 year old Chayut, also known as Phut, was found sitting on his bed with his back against a pile of pillows. Phut suffered a gunshot wound to the forehead. A .38 gun used in the incident was discovered next to him. Police found no signs of a struggle or theft. Phut’s aunt, 42 year old Paphada, admitted responsibility for keeping the gun, which belonged to her late grandfather, a former government official. Paphada explained that the weapon, along with a single bullet, was stored separately and hidden in her bedroom, as she believed the children in the house were unaware of its existence. However, CCTV footage showed Phut retrieving the gun from her room. Photo via KomChadLuek Normal level of stress According to reports from Kom Chad Luek, the house where Phut’s body was found belonged to his grandmother. Although Phut’s parents lived nearby, he often stayed with his grandmother. Phut’s mother, 33 year old Thanchita, described her son as a typical young boy with normal stresses for his age. She explained that Phut tended to keep his problems to himself and only shared them when she directly asked him. Recently, family members criticised Phut for waking up late, spending too much time on his mobile phone, and playing video games excessively. On the evening of the tragedy, Phut approached his mother and asked for a hug. After they embraced, he returned to his grandmother’s house, where he took his own life. Phut’s grandmother was the first to discover his body. She heard a gunshot from his bedroom, which was locked. Using a spare key, she entered the room and found her grandson dead. Thanchita urged families to keep dangerous weapons out of children’s reach, noting that children nowadays gain significant knowledge about weapons through social media platforms and often know how to use them. She stressed the importance of vigilance to prevent similar tragedies. 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. by Petch Petpailin Photo via KomChadLuek Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-19

Bang Sue police inspector joins nightclub party during ID checks (video) by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A deputy police inspector from Bang Sue district, Bangkok, was seen dancing while conducting ID checks at a nightclub. The move, which occurred yesterday, November 18, aimed to create a relaxed atmosphere for patrons and reduce tension during routine checks. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343967-bang-sue-police-inspector-joins-nightclub-party-during-id-checks-video/

A deputy police inspector from Bang Sue district, Bangkok, was seen dancing while conducting ID checks at a nightclub. The move, which occurred yesterday, November 18, aimed to create a relaxed atmosphere for patrons and reduce tension during routine checks. Woraphat Sookthai took to the dance floor to perform a light-hearted routine in response to a viral clip. He explained that after overseeing Loy Krathong festivities, he proceeded to inspect entertainment venues around 10pm, focusing on Repeat Ari, a popular spot with numerous patrons. Upon the officers’ arrival, customers appeared startled, prompting the venue’s singer to continue playing music to ease the situation. When the singer suggested playing a light-hearted song and incorporating a saluting dance move, Woraphat agreed, leading to a wave of relaxation among the patrons. He then proceeded to check IDs table by table, maintaining a friendly atmosphere. “It’s a positive environment when officers get close to the people out having fun,” Woraphat said. “It makes them comfortable with the checks. This approach shows a new side of the police, beyond the strict persona.” The deputy inspector expressed a desire for such a relaxed atmosphere to become a regular occurrence during inspections. He believes this approach helps bridge the gap between police and the public, fostering a mutual understanding and diminishing unnecessary tensions. The dance move he chose was a simple military salute, avoiding any inappropriate gestures while maintaining his professional demeanour in uniform. He views this method as a positive practice, finding common ground while respecting differences. “Police checks are necessary, and each area conducts them differently. Some places stop music and turn on lights, which seems stressful. But it’s for finding weapons and underage individuals.” Owner of the Repeat Ari, Nam, provided insight into the event, noting that on Loy Krathong night, Bang Sue police conducted their routine checks. Initially, customers were surprised by the police presence, but as the officers began to communicate and dance, the patrons relaxed and cooperated with the ID checks. The customers then continued to enjoy their night, capturing the moment on video. Nam praised the approach, highlighting that it made customers feel safe, reported KhaoSod. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-19

Crackdown on Cheap Foreign Goods Planned to Protect Consumers and SMEs File photo for reference only: Wikipedia Thailand's Commerce Ministry is preparing measures to combat the surge of cheap, substandard foreign goods entering the market, which is affecting local consumers and SMEs. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343960-crackdown-on-cheap-foreign-goods-planned-to-protect-consumers-and-smes/

File photo for reference only: Wikipedia Thailand's Commerce Ministry is preparing measures to combat the surge of cheap, substandard foreign goods entering the market, which is affecting local consumers and SMEs. In response to public concerns, the ministry has developed a strategic plan involving multiple government agencies to curb the influx of these products. Deputy Commerce Minister Napintorn Srisunpang led discussions with representatives from 20 government bodies. The focus was on three key product groups—agricultural, consumer, and industrial. For agricultural products, checks on origin and pesticide residues will be enhanced to ensure safety. Attention to consumer goods, particularly those sold on online platforms like Temu and Lazada, is paramount. The ministry aims to enforce requirements for foreign e-commerce platforms to establish registered offices in Thailand and comply with local regulations, as specified in the Foreign Business Act and through the Consumer Protection Board. Temu, a Chinese online marketplace, has made strides by registering as a legal entity in Thailand, effective from November 2024. This move aligns with upcoming regulations expected in early 2025. For industrial products, the Customs Department will oversee imports, ensuring they meet standards set by the Thai Industrial Standards Institute. The Commerce Ministry laid out short, medium, and long-term plans. Immediate actions are expected by the end of the year, while enhancing the competitiveness of Thai products is a medium-term goal for 2025. Long-term plans aim for a sustainable expansion of markets by revising trade laws by October 2025. The ministry's initiative aligns with its goal to raise the GDP contribution from SMEs from 35.2% to 40% by 2027. This will involve training, funding, online marketing support, and business matchmaking. Overall, the ministry has outlined five core measures and 63 actions, reinforcing law enforcement, revising trade regulations, implementing tax measures, and fostering international cooperation to protect the local economy, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-11-19

New Alcohol Control Bill Nearly Finalised; Set for December House Vote FILE photo courtesy: MGR online The Alcoholic Beverage Control Bill is nearing completion and could be put before Thailand's parliament by mid-December. Leading the review, Mr Wisarn Techathirawat, head of the special scrutinising committee, stated the bill is now 80% complete. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343959-new-alcohol-control-bill-nearly-finalised-set-for-december-house-vote/

FILE photo courtesy: MGR online The Alcoholic Beverage Control Bill is nearing completion and could be put before Thailand's parliament by mid-December. Leading the review, Mr Wisarn Techathirawat, head of the special scrutinising committee, stated the bill is now 80% complete. Born out of five distinct drafts, the proposal underwent a demanding eight-month integration process. The five preliminary drafts, originally submitted by various entities including the government, the Pheu Thai Party, and public health advocates, had unique approaches to alcohol control. However, the committee has successfully amalgamated their key points into a single draft, currently 70–80% realised. Central to the new legislation is the devolution of power to local provincial alcohol control committees. This move aims to empower these bodies with the authority to determine zoning areas and establish tailored regulations. Discussions around the draft were held during a national conference on alcohol. Mr Wisarn remarked that alcohol prevention among youth remains a focal point. As such, representatives from youth councils are set to join provincial committees. This ensures young voices influence pivotal decisions on alcohol zoning and sales restrictions. The timeline is tight. By December 11, the bill should be ready for inclusion in the House of Representatives’ draft agenda. The new parliamentary season begins December 13, providing a narrow window for initial review. Mr Wisarn hopes parliament will prioritise this legislation. One of the bill's principal aims is to tackle Thailand’s increasing trend in alcohol consumption, especially among women. Control of alcohol sales promotions is covered extensively, with the law envisaged to curb related societal issues like health risks and road accidents. The legislation introduces strict penalties for selling alcohol to minors or visibly drunk persons, alongside empowering provincial committees with localised authority. Such provisions promise to fundamentally alter how alcohol is regulated, fitting concerns of public health with practical governance adjustments, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-11-19

Thai Police Officer Investigated Over 500 Baht Bribe Claim in Khon Kaen Picture courtesy: Daily News Following the viral spread of a video showing a police officer accepting a bribe of 500 baht, Colonel Yoswat Kaewsupthanit, the Superintendent of Muang Khon Kaen Police Station, ordered an investigation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343958-thai-police-officer-investigated-over-500-baht-bribe-claim-in-khon-kaen/

Picture courtesy: Daily News Following the viral spread of a video showing a police officer accepting a bribe of 500 baht, Colonel Yoswat Kaewsupthanit, the Superintendent of Muang Khon Kaen Police Station, ordered an investigation. It was discovered that the officer in question, a sergeant in the traffic division, admitted to accepting the money but claimed he had returned it to the individual. Despite this, the officer was found to have committed an offence, leading to disciplinary and criminal proceedings. The incident first came to light on social media and various pages in Khon Kaen Province, which showed a traffic officer allegedly accepting a bribe from a motorbike rider. The video sparked widespread criticism and calls for a thorough investigation, urging the authorities to take decisive action. On November 18, Colonel Yoswat addressed the incident, revealing that it occurred in August 2024. Upon investigation, it was discovered that the motorbike rider’s girlfriend had recorded the video. The officer, identified by badge number 6631, confirmed his involvement but stated that he had refunded the money to the victim. “This incident is a clear case of an officer seeking an improper benefit. Initially, he is guilty of both disciplinary and criminal violations. I have therefore set up a fact-finding committee to conduct a full investigation,” Colonel Yoswat said. He also announced that the officer would be reassigned to the station’s administrative office while the inquiry is ongoing, and the committee has been given seven days to complete its review. Colonel Yoswat emphasized that the officer’s actions were improper, as he failed to follow the proper procedures. Traffic officers are trained to handle such cases through established channels, which involve setting up roadblocks for inspections and handling the seized vehicles accordingly. Even in on-the-spot encounters, officers are required to issue fines and bring the vehicles to the station for further processing, rather than accepting bribes or bypassing protocols. He also reassured the public that if they encounter issues with the conduct of officers at Muang Khon Kaen Police Station, they should feel free to lodge complaints directly with him or report the matter to the police at any time, via the 191 emergency hotline, reported Daily News. -- 2024-11-19

Operation "Bridge-Blasting": Thai Police Bust Chinese Call Centre Gang Using 02 Numbers Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Police in Thailand have dismantled a sophisticated Chinese call centre gang, primarily involving Chinese nationals, that exploited over 10,000 telephone numbers starting with "02" to defraud citizens. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343957-operation-bridge-blasting-thai-police-bust-chinese-call-centre-gang-using-02-numbers/