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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/

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. This operation, called the "Bridge-Blasting Measure," uncovered that the gang made over 700 million calls and sent nearly one million fraudulent SMS messages in just three days. On 18 November 2024, Pol. Lt. Gen. Thatchai Pitaneelabutr, Deputy Commissioner of the Royal Thai Police, announced the results of two key operations targeting this gang. The investigations revealed that the fraudulent numbers, initially registered with three companies under a SIP Trunk system, were used to impersonate Thai landlines while operating from neighbouring countries. The authorities identified three companies—Ruan Yun, Yoon, and Prima—linked to over 11,200 phone numbers. Together, these numbers facilitated fraudulent call attempts exceeding 730 million. Notably, all the companies involved had foreign directors, predominantly Chinese nationals, some of whom are now facing arrest warrants alongside Thai collaborators. In another breakthrough, the police arrested a Chinese suspect, Mr. Yang, who used a false base station to send fake SMS messages claiming reward points were expiring, tricking victims into providing sensitive information. The operation involved tampered telecommunications equipment and unauthorised frequencies. This crackdown has led to 10 arrests so far, including nine Thais and one Myanmar national, while international warrants have been issued for other suspects. Charges include fraud, computer crimes, money laundering, and running illegal networks. Pol. Lt. Gen. Thatchai stated that this operation significantly disrupted the gang's ability to defraud citizens, marking a decline in such crimes over the past three months. Authorities continue collaborating with private and government sectors to tackle online and cross-border crimes effectively, reported Siam Rath. -- 2024-11-19

Election Commission Urged to Probe Thaksin’s Dual Citizenship Picture courtesy: Siam Rath On 18 November 2024, Sondhiya Sawatdee, a former advisor to the House of Representatives' legal, justice, and human rights commission, filed a formal request with Thailand’s Election Commission (EC). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343956-election-commission-urged-to-probe-thaksin’s-dual-citizenship/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath On 18 November 2024, Sondhiya Sawatdee, a former advisor to the House of Representatives' legal, justice, and human rights commission, filed a formal request with Thailand’s Election Commission (EC). He urged the commission to investigate whether Thaksin Shinawatra, the former prime minister, holds dual citizenship in Thailand and Montenegro. This inquiry stems from Thaksin’s involvement in campaigning for a Pheu Thai Party candidate in the Udon Thani provincial administrative organisation (PAO) election last weekend. Sondhiya expressed concerns that Thaksin's dual citizenship, if confirmed, could violate local election laws, party regulations, and the constitution. He referenced Section 68 of the 2019 Local Council and Administrative Organisation Election Act, noting that Thaksin’s prolonged 17-year absence from Thailand and reports of his Montenegrin citizenship raised legal questions. Sondhiya cited Montenegro’s policy prohibiting dual citizenship and questioned whether Thaksin’s actions were in line with Montenegrin law. Efforts to confirm Thaksin’s citizenship status through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs were inconclusive. Sondhiya contacted the Montenegrin honorary consulate in Thailand, only to be told that inquiries must be directed to Montenegro’s authorities. Sondhiya added that the EC must clarify whether Thaksin’s campaign activities were lawful. If Thaksin still holds Montenegrin citizenship, his involvement in the election campaign could render it invalid. Thai law prohibits non-Thai nationals from participating in any form of election activities. Additionally, Sondhiya raised concerns over Thaksin’s campaign rhetoric, accusing him of using defamatory and misleading language. The Pheu Thai Party’s involvement, given its logo and endorsement of the Udon Thani PAO candidate, was also flagged for scrutiny. Sondhiya urged the EC to address the issue thoroughly to ensure clarity and accountability. In a related matter, Sondhiya plans to submit a separate inquiry to Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. He seeks an explanation regarding her absence from the closing ceremony of the ASEAN Summit in Laos last month, which was noted in Filipino media reports. Sondhiya questioned whether this reflects on the country’s representation on the global stage, urging a clear response for the reassurance of Thai citizens, reported Siam RAth. -- 2024-11-19

12kg Heroin Found Inside Buddha Statues Abandoned in Thailand Picture courtesy: Naew Na In a striking discovery today, Thai authorities uncovered a substantial narcotics haul tucked away in Buddha statues left by a roadside in Nakhon Phanom province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343946-12kg-heroin-found-inside-buddha-statues-abandoned-in-thailand/

Picture courtesy: Naew Na In a striking discovery today, Thai authorities uncovered a substantial narcotics haul tucked away in Buddha statues left by a roadside in Nakhon Phanom province. Acting on a tip-off, the Border Patrol Police, led by Pol. Lt. Col. Rewat Champa, launched extensive patrols in this northeastern region. Their vigilant efforts paid off when they stumbled upon three statues abandoned near a cemetery in Uthen district. Upon closer inspection, the statues revealed a staggering cache. Inside, authorities found 32 small bags, each containing approximately 400 grammes of heroin, amounting to 12kg. Additionally, they uncovered 117kg of crystal methamphetamine, commonly referred to as Ice. The heroin bore a distinctive stamp featuring a pair of lions and a red globe, while the Ice was cleverly concealed in Chinese tea bags, likely to evade scrutiny. The illicit cargo is valued at over 100 million baht. Investigators deduced that the drugs were smuggled from Laos, evidenced by Mekong river sand clinging to the statues' bases. A cunning smuggling tactic involved using carbon copy paper to shield the drugs from X-ray detection, a hallmark of sophisticated trafficking operations. Picture courtesy: Naew Na The decision to abandon the statues appears to be a hasty move prompted by tightening security measures. Authorities suspect a broker, supervising from afar, tipped off the traffickers about the impending capture, leading them to ditch the contraband in a hurry. This incident underscores the continuing battle against drug smuggling in Thailand, a key transit point in Southeast Asia. The authorities remain on high alert, determined to stem the flow of illegal substances across their borders. This operation marks a significant victory in their ongoing campaign against drug trafficking, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-11-19

Thailand Investigates Increasing Dugong Death Toll in Krabi File photo. Source: Wikipedia Thailand's dugong population is facing a serious decline, prompting an expanded investigation into rising death rates. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343939-thailand-investigates-increasing-dugong-death-toll-in-krabi/

File photo. Source: Wikipedia Thailand's dugong population is facing a serious decline, prompting an expanded investigation into rising death rates. The recent discovery of a dead juvenile dugong on Si Boya Island has heightened concerns about the survival of this vulnerable species. The dugong was found just days after another adult female was discovered dead in Krabi's Khao Thong subdistrict. Natural Resources and Environment Minister, Chalermchai Sri-on, has called for urgent interventions to combat the alarming situation. The critical decline in seagrass, which serves as the primary food source for dugongs, has been identified as a major cause of the increased mortality. This issue is particularly acute in Trang province, a once-thriving habitat for dugongs and seagrass diversity. Reports indicate that the dugong population in the Andaman Sea has lost at least 35 members this year. With seagrass levels only half as plentiful as previous years, the survival of remaining dugongs is in jeopardy. To address this, the ministry has tasked the Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation, along with the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources, to implement crisis recovery and protection measures. These include seagrass bed restoration, supplementary feeding, and dugong rescue training courses. Marine expert Thon Thamrongnawasawat has highlighted the urgency of the situation on social media, pointing out that 72 dugongs have died over the past two years. The death rate has escalated from approximately one per month seven years ago to nearly four per month in 2023. Given this trajectory, experts warn that dugongs could face local extinction in the Andaman Sea within the next few years if current trends continue. Minister Chalermchai plans to monitor progress closely and intends to bring this crisis to the international stage at the upcoming United Nations Climate Change Conference in Azerbaijan, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-11-19

Rare 1-baht coin could fetch up to 100,000 baht Image courtesy of KhaoSod Collectors are buzzing with excitement over the recent discovery of a rare 1-baht coin from the reign of King Rama IX, featuring an unusual double-tail side. A renowned shop has revealed that finding such a coin could fetch up to 100,000 baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343919-rare-1-baht-coin-could-fetch-up-to-100000-baht/

Intoxicated tourist detained after Pattaya restaurant altercation An intoxicated tourist was apprehended in Pattaya following an alleged assault on a restaurant owner’s husband. The incident unfolded at a restaurant in Soi Pratumnak 4. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343900-intoxicated-tourist-detained-after-pattaya-restaurant-altercation/