webfact

Picture courtesy: Sanook In a significant political development, Newin Chidchob, a key political figure in Thailand, has openly dismissed Thaksin Shinawatra's proposal to legalise casinos. This decision came out during a private discussion between these two influential persons earlier this month. Thaksin, father of current Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, has been trying to gain support for his casino initiative as part of larger entertainment complexes in popular tourist destinations such as Bangkok, Phuket, and Pattaya, where gambling is currently illegal. These proposed casinos would be part of grand entertainment centres aiming to attract tourism and boost the economy. Despite Thaksin's efforts, Newin maintained a clear stance against the casino plan, expressing concerns over potential social and economic issues, such as debt and addiction among the public. Newin's stance is pivotal since his Bhumjaithai Party holds considerable influence within Thailand's ruling coalition, which includes Thaksin's Pheu Thai Party. However, it is understood that Newin is not entirely against the notion of building entertainment complexes. He may support such projects on the condition that they exclude gambling activities. This stipulation underscores a key difference in vision between the two political figures. Thaksin has been under scrutiny for potentially overstepping legal and political boundaries by allegedly wielding undue influence over his daughter's government and coalition partners. In light of this, investigations are already underway by several bodies, notably the Election Commission and Constitutional Court, to examine these allegations further, reported Thai Newsroom an Reuters. In conclusion, while Thaksin continues to push forward ambitious projects, including the joint Thai-Cambodian initiative in the Gulf of Thailand, his casino plan faces a formidable challenge with Newin’s rejection. New developments in this political story could significantly impact Thailand’s legal and economic landscape in the near future. -- 2024-10-21

Armed gang extorts 4 million baht, kidnaps two in Bangkok heist by Ryan Turner Image: KhaoSod Five armed men stormed a prominent company on Ratchadaphisek Road in Bangkok, extorted over 4 million baht, and kidnapped two Chinese nationals before abandoning them on Nawamin Road. Police are currently investigating the incident. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341251-armed-gang-extorts-4-million-baht-kidnaps-two-in-bangkok-heist/

Five armed men stormed a prominent company on Ratchadaphisek Road in Bangkok, extorted over 4 million baht, and kidnapped two Chinese nationals before abandoning them on Nawamin Road. Police are currently investigating the incident. Yesterday, October 20, two Chinese nationals reported to Suthisan Police Station that they had been victims of an armed robbery and kidnapping at their workplace on Ratchadaphisek Road. The incident occurred around 4pm on October 19 when five men, two Thai and three Myanmar nationals, armed with firearms, stormed the office. They forcibly extorted 3.2 million baht baht from the victims. A friend of the victims revealed that the assailants weren’t satisfied with the initial amount and continued to threaten the two Chinese nationals. They forced them into a vehicle and drove towards Nakhon Nayok province, demanding an additional US$600,000 (20 million baht). Lacking the required funds, the victims had to borrow US$270,000 from their Chinese relatives, which was then transferred to the assailants. The friend revealed that the criminals eventually released the victims on Nawamin Road in Bangkok. They confiscated their mobile phones, destroyed the SIM cards, and returned the phones before leaving them stranded. The victims then purchased new SIM cards from a convenience store and contacted their friend to assist them in filing a police report. Preliminary investigations by the Suthisan Police Station have involved coordinating with an investigative team to examine CCTV footage and verify the facts of the case. Efforts are currently underway to track down the perpetrators for further questioning, reported KhaoSod. In other news, Thai police are searching for four Chinese nationals who yesterday stole 70 million baht in cryptocurrency from a Chinese couple in the central province of Pathum Thani. Officers from Pak Khlong Rangsit Police Station swooped on a house in the Banmai district of Pathum Thani in the early hours of yesterday, August 14, after being alerted by the homeowners, a 35 year old Chinese man named Ge Jiao Pa, and his wife. Advertisements by Ryan Turner Image: KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-21

Unholy muddle: Monks caught in naughty habits in defrock shock by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Police officers and a village head raided a monk’s quarters, resulting in the defrocking of two monks for engaging in drug use, drinking alcohol, and having an illicit affair with a local man’s wife. The raid occurred after receiving complaints and evidence of inappropriate behaviour. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341247-unholy-muddle-monks-caught-in-naughty-habits-in-defrock-shock/

Police officers and a village head raided a monk’s quarters, resulting in the defrocking of two monks for engaging in drug use, drinking alcohol, and having an illicit affair with a local man’s wife. The raid occurred after receiving complaints and evidence of inappropriate behaviour. The search took place at a temple in Lahan Sai district, Buriram province yesterday, October 20. Police from Lahan Sai Police Station, together with the village head, inspected the quarters of two monks in the Tatchong subdistrict. Complaints had been lodged about monks engaging in drug use, alcohol consumption, and illicit affairs with villagers’ wives, supported by video evidence of sexual activity. During the raid, the police first searched the quarters of 37 year old Ek. No drugs or drug paraphernalia were found but a pair of women’s underwear was discovered hidden among his robes. In the quarters of another monk, 35 year old Thun, police also did not find drugs or drug paraphernalia, but they did find bottles of liquor and beer. Following the search, both monks underwent urine tests which came back positive for drugs. They were immediately taken to the abbot to be defrocked and then escorted to the police station, where they were charged with drug use and sent for rehabilitation as per legal procedures, reported KhaoSod. Image: KhaoSod In a confession, former monk Ek admitted to using methamphetamine, stating he had consumed three pills two days prior. However, he denied the accusations of an affair, claiming that he only communicated with the woman because she had told him she was separated from her husband. He also denied any knowledge of sending explicit clips to mock the woman’s husband. The woman’s 31 year old husband shared his ordeal, saying that the first time he discovered his wife’s affair with Ek, she claimed to have been coerced by the monk. He forgave her after she promised to cease all contact. Despite this, he later caught them exchanging messages and found out they continued to meet secretly, prompting the husband to file a complaint and report the incident. by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-21

Heavy rain expected in 32 provinces with 70% of Bangkok affected by Ryan Turner Image: KhaoSod Today’s weather forecast from the Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) predicts heavy rain across 32 provinces, with Bangkok expected to experience downpours over 70% of its area. Citizens are advised to stay alert for potential flash floods and forest runoff. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341241-heavy-rain-expected-in-32-provinces-with-70-of-bangkok-affected/

Today’s weather forecast from the Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) predicts heavy rain across 32 provinces, with Bangkok expected to experience downpours over 70% of its area. Citizens are advised to stay alert for potential flash floods and forest runoff. The TMD issued a weather forecast for the next 24 hours, predicting thunderstorms and heavy rainfall in central, eastern, and southern Thailand. Residents in these regions are urged to be cautious of heavy rain and accumulated rainfall, which could lead to sudden flooding and forest runoff, particularly in mountain slopes near waterways and low-lying areas. The high-pressure system or cold air mass from China covering the upper northern and upper northeastern regions of Thailand is causing this weather pattern. This results in easterly and southeasterly winds bringing moisture from the South China Sea and the Gulf of Thailand to cover the lower northern, lower northeastern, central, and eastern regions. Along with the monsoon trough passing through the upper Gulf of Thailand, the eastern and upper southern regions are also affected. In the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, moderate waves are expected. The Andaman Sea will see waves between one to two metres, while the Gulf of Thailand will have waves about 1 metre high and more than 2 metres in areas with thunderstorms. Mariners in these regions are advised to proceed with caution and avoid sailing in areas with thunderstorms. In the northern region, there will be thunderstorms covering 60% of the area, mostly in Mae Hong Son, Tak, Kamphaeng Phet, Sukhothai, Phichit, and Phetchabun provinces. Temperatures will range from a minimum of 21 to 24 degrees Celcius (°C) to a maximum of 32 to 34°C. Easterly winds will blow at a speed of 10 to 15 kilometres per hour (km/h). Regional updates In the northeastern region, thunderstorms are expected in 60% of the area, primarily in Loei, Chaiyaphum, Nakhon Ratchasima, Buriram, Surin, Sisaket, Khon Kaen, and Nong Bua Lam Phu provinces. The temperature will range from 22 to 25°C at the lowest to 32 to 33°C at the highest, with easterly winds blowing at 10 to 20 km/h. In the central region, 70% of the area will experience thunderstorms with heavy rain in some places, particularly in Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Nakhon Pathom, Samut Sakhon, and Samut Songkhram provinces. Temperatures will range from 23 to 25°C at the lowest to 31 to 34°C at the highest, with easterly winds blowing at 10 to 20 km/h. In the eastern region, 70% of the area will have thunderstorms with heavy rain in some places, especially in Nakhon Nayok, Prachin Buri, Chachoengsao, Chon Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat provinces. The temperature will range from 23 to 25°C at the lowest to 32 to 34°C at the highest, with variable winds blowing at 15 to 30 km/h. The sea will have waves about 1 metre high, and more than 2 metres high in areas with thunderstorms. In the southern region (eastern coast), 40% of the area will have thunderstorms with heavy rain in some places, particularly in Phetchaburi and Prachuap Khiri Khan provinces. Temperatures will range from 23 to 25°C at the lowest to 30 to 35°C at the highest, with variable winds blowing at 15 to 30 km/h. The sea will have waves about 1 metre high, and more than 2 metres high in areas with thunderstorms. In the southern region (western coast), 30% of the area will have thunderstorms, mostly in Ranong and Phang Nga provinces. Temperatures will range from 23 to 25°C at the lowest to 31 to 35°C at the highest, with southwesterly winds blowing at 15 to 35 km/h in areas from Phuket upwards and 15 to 30 km/h from Krabi downwards. The sea will have waves between 1 to 2 metres high, and more than 2 metres high in areas with thunderstorms. In Bangkok and its vicinity, 70% of the area will see thunderstorms with heavy rain in some places. Temperatures will range from 25 to 26°C at the lowest to 32 to 34°C at the highest, with easterly winds blowing at 10 to 20 km/h. by Ryan Turner Image: KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-21

Wi-Fi Rescue Boats Boost Disaster Response in Flood-Hit Areas by Krajangwit Johjit BANGKOK (NNT) - The Friends in Need (of “PA”) Volunteers Foundation, under the Thai Red Cross Society, has received eight “Wi-Fi Rescue Boats” from the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation (MHESI). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341239-wi-fi-rescue-boats-boost-disaster-response-in-flood-hit-areas/

BANGKOK (NNT) - The Friends in Need (of “PA”) Volunteers Foundation, under the Thai Red Cross Society, has received eight “Wi-Fi Rescue Boats” from the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation (MHESI). Developed by Thai academics, these boats provide light, power, and internet connectivity during emergencies, enhancing flood response efforts. They will be distributed to disaster alert networks in eight communities across seven provinces. The “Wi-Fi Rescue Boats” are flat-bottomed vessels capable of operating in shallow waters and carrying up to 40 kilograms. Equipped with solar-powered Wi-Fi transmitters, they provide internet access for up to six hours and can charge multiple mobile devices. The boats feature sirens, loudspeakers, and live-stream cameras facilitating real-time monitoring during emergencies. The technology addresses power outages and communication challenges often encountered in flood-affected areas. The donation was officially handed over on October 17 during a ceremony held at MHESI headquarters. The boats will be used by the foundation’s networks in provinces, including Sukhothai, Phitsanulok, Chaiyaphum, and Phatthalung, to support disaster relief and recovery. The foundation, established under the initiative of Princess Soamsawali and Princess Bajrakitiyabha, provides comprehensive support during floods and other natural disasters. Developed in collaboration with several MHESI-affiliated agencies, including Princess of Naradhiwas University and the Science, Research and Innovation Promotion Fund, the boats are expected to greatly enhance safety and quality of life for flood victims in some of Thailand’s most vulnerable regions. by Krajangwit Johjit Source: NNT -- 2024-10-21

Nearly 20% of Thai teens at risk of self-harm, warns DMH by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Department of Medical Health Almost 20% of Thai teenagers face the risk of self-harm, according to the Department of Mental Health (DMH). This alarming statistic underscores the urgent need to prioritise mental health issues among the youth, experts suggest. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341238-nearly-20-of-thai-teens-at-risk-of-self-harm-warns-dmh/

Almost 20% of Thai teenagers face the risk of self-harm, according to the Department of Mental Health (DMH). This alarming statistic underscores the urgent need to prioritise mental health issues among the youth, experts suggest. DMH director Kittisak Aksornwong revealed on October 18 that 503,884 teenagers aged 18 and under have registered on the Department’s Mental Health Check-in application from February 12, 2022, to October 18 this year. The app is designed for self-assessment of mental health and screening for potential problems, offering users a channel to seek advice from experts online. Out of those registered, 51,789 users, or 10.28%, may be at risk of depression, while 87,718, or 17.4%, are at risk of self-harm, Kittisak noted. “These figures not only reflect the urgent need for mental health care among teenagers but also serve as a warning sign that we all need to work together to solve this problem.” Addressing mental health challenges, especially in the digital age, requires more than just government intervention. Kittisak emphasised that cooperation from all sectors, including the private sector and civil society, is essential. Speaking at the launch of the TikTok Mindful Makers campaign at Samyan Mitrtown, Kittisak highlighted TikTok as an influential platform among teenagers. He pointed out that technology and social media significantly impact daily life for the younger generation. “Creating a safe online space that is responsible and promotes good mental health is a challenge that we all must work together to achieve.” The DMH has partnered with TikTok Thailand to introduce the TikTok Mindful Makers campaign and the new Sati app. This app provides access to safe, confidential, anonymous, and on-demand listening services offered by trained listeners. The TikTok Mindful Makers campaign collaborates with the World Health Organisation and the Mental Health Trust Network Programme. The goal is to disseminate information about mental health, foster an online community of support, and promote a more compassionate and understanding society. Chanida Klyphun, head of public policy for TikTok Thailand, highlighted that Mindful Makers has garnered over 13 billion views worldwide. She stressed the importance of making the platform safe for everyone to ensure it remains a creative and supportive space, reported Bangkok Post. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Department of Medical Health Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-21 “Making the platform a safe area for everyone is essential for it to become a creative space.”

Drunk Porsche Driver Offers B200,000 Settlement, Victim’s Father Questions Charges Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Chiang Mai – A family is demanding justice after a young man was severely injured by a drunk Porsche driver who offered B200,000 to settle the case. The victim's father believes the charges laid against the driver are too lenient, raising concerns over police handling of the incident and their refusal to consider attempted murder charges. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341236-drunk-porsche-driver-offers-b200000-settlement-victim’s-father-questions-charges/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Chiang Mai – A family is demanding justice after a young man was severely injured by a drunk Porsche driver who offered B200,000 to settle the case. The victim's father believes the charges laid against the driver are too lenient, raising concerns over police handling of the incident and their refusal to consider attempted murder charges. The accident occurred in the early hours of 24 July 2024 at the Fa Thani intersection in Chiang Mai. Mr. Irfan Musa, a 22-year-old fourth-year university student, was stopped at a red light on his motorcycle with his friend, Ms. Aom, also 22, when a speeding Porsche ran the light and hit them without braking. CCTV footage from the scene captured the chilling moment as the Porsche crashed into the stationary motorcycle. Mr. Musa was thrown to the ground while Ms. Aom was dragged by the car for more than 10 metres before being flung onto the pavement. Shockingly, the driver, who was visibly intoxicated, did not immediately help the injured pair. Instead, he reversed the car, running over Mr. Musa a second time before pulling over to the side of the road. Bystanders quickly called emergency services and restrained the driver, fearing he might attempt to flee the scene. Witnesses described the driver as a young man who was "stumbling and clearly drunk." Both victims sustained serious injuries. Mr. Musa suffered a ruptured liver, a fractured skull, and a broken pelvis, while Ms. Aom was critically injured. Mr. Musa required two hospital stays and ongoing physiotherapy, and his family had to temporarily close their business to care for him. The Porsche driver was arrested and charged with reckless driving causing injury and drunk driving. However, Mr. Musa’s father, Mr. Suding Musa, believes these charges are inadequate given the severity of the crash and the driver’s reckless actions. "From the footage, it’s clear that the driver didn’t just hit my son—he ran over him again when reversing. We are asking for an additional charge of attempted murder, but the police have refused, saying it doesn’t meet the criteria." Despite the serious injuries sustained, the driver’s lawyer recently proposed a settlement of B200,000 for each victim, insisting this was all the driver could afford. The lawyer suggested that if the family did not accept the offer, they would fight the case in court and were prepared for the driver to face prison time. Mr. Suding, however, refuses to accept the settlement, stating that it is insufficient compensation for the pain and suffering his son has endured. "We don’t want money—we want justice. My son’s dreams have been shattered. He wanted to become a physiotherapist, but now he can barely walk. How is B200,000 supposed to make up for that?" Mr. Musa himself has spoken out, sharing how the accident has left him physically and emotionally scarred. "I’ve lost the ability to move the way I used to. I was passionate about sports and physical therapy, but now I can’t even walk properly. It’s hard to accept that my future has changed because of someone’s reckless behaviour. If this had happened to someone in the driver’s family, would they settle for this?" The case has drawn public attention, with many questioning the leniency of the charges and the handling of the investigation. Mr. Musa’s family has called for a full inquiry into the Porsche driver’s actions and the police’s decision not to press more serious charges. In the meantime, Mr. Musa continues to undergo physiotherapy, although his recovery has been slow. His family remains determined to pursue the case in court, rejecting the settlement offer and seeking harsher penalties for the driver. "We will not rest until justice is served," Mr. Suding said. "My son’s life will never be the same, and we cannot accept that the driver gets off so easily." Chiang Mai police have stated that they are continuing their investigation but have not yet added any further charges, reported Thai Rath. -- 2024-10-21

Anutin Visits Nakhon Phanom to Address and Solve Local Issues Picture courtesy: INN Anutin Charnvirakul, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, visited Nakhon Phanom to engage with the local community and assess the quality of life improvements in the region. He emphasised the importance of directly addressing issues raised by residents to enhance tourism and cultural development in the area. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341235-anutin-visits-nakhon-phanom-to-address-and-solve-local-issues/

Picture courtesy: INN Anutin Charnvirakul, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, visited Nakhon Phanom to engage with the local community and assess the quality of life improvements in the region. He emphasised the importance of directly addressing issues raised by residents to enhance tourism and cultural development in the area. During his visit, Anutin and senior officials from the Ministry of Interior outlined strategies to improve the well-being of local residents, meeting with village health volunteers and local government leaders. He stressed that the ministry prioritises ensuring basic necessities such as clean water, electricity, and well-maintained roads, while also promoting economic growth. Anutin expressed his commitment to visiting Nakhon Phanom whenever possible, stating that the prosperity and happiness of the province were of utmost importance. He highlighted key cultural and tourism assets like the sacred Phra That Phanom and the iconic Naga statue along the Mekong River, which attract visitors and support the local economy, reported INN. The Ministry of Interior aims to strengthen tourism, culture, and related industries, ensuring that Nakhon Phanom continues to develop in a way that benefits the entire community. Anutin reaffirmed his dedication to resolving issues swiftly, noting that the well-being of the people is a top priority. -- 2024-10-21

British Man Drives 500 km to See 'Lamduan,' Sisaket’s Baby Hippo Picture courtesy: Daily News A British man visiting his Thai wife in Chonburi recently embarked on an unexpected journey, driving over 500 kilometres to see a baby hippo named "Lamduan" in Sisaket after being unable to catch a glimpse of the much-talked-about "Moo Deng" in Chonburi. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341233-british-man-drives-500-km-to-see-lamduan-sisaket’s-baby-hippo/

Picture courtesy: Daily News A British man visiting his Thai wife in Chonburi recently embarked on an unexpected journey, driving over 500 kilometres to see a baby hippo named "Lamduan" in Sisaket after being unable to catch a glimpse of the much-talked-about "Moo Deng" in Chonburi. The couple, eager to see Moo Deng, a baby hippo who has gained viral fame, planned to visit Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chonburi. However, upon arriving, they were disappointed by the overwhelming crowds that made it nearly impossible to get close. Faced with long wait times and the inability to see the beloved animal, they made a spontaneous decision to drive all the way to Sisaket in search of another famous baby hippo. "Lamduan," the new arrival at Sisaket Zoo, was born just eight days ago and has already captured the hearts of many. The British man, who had flown to Thailand to visit his wife, was fascinated by the hippo craze and wanted to witness the country's latest wildlife sensation. After learning about Lamduan’s birth and the growing interest in the baby hippo, they set out on the long road trip from Chonburi to Sisaket, eager to see the new hippo star. Upon arrival at Sisaket Zoo, they were delighted to find fewer crowds compared to Chonburi, allowing them to have a more intimate experience with Lamduan. The man's Thai wife spoke to reporters, explaining how her husband was eager to see the famous animals that had captured the nation’s attention. “He had just arrived in Thailand and was really looking forward to seeing the baby hippo. When we couldn’t get close to Moo Deng because of the crowds, we thought, why not take a road trip to see Lamduan?” Picture courtesy: Daily News At the zoo, the British man expressed his admiration for Lamduan, finding her playful and adorable. "It was worth the drive," he said, adding that he appreciated the quieter atmosphere, which allowed him to observe Lamduan up close as she playfully interacted with her mother. The zoo’s caretaker, Uncle Kar, has been looking after Lamduan and her mother, Kaesarin, since the birth. He explained that while some critics have claimed Lamduan is "less bouncy" than Moo Deng, this is due to her age, as she’s only just eight days old. "Lamduan is still very young and is just getting used to the tourists. She’s already starting to play and interact with them," he said, assuring visitors that Lamduan will soon exhibit the same energetic charm expected from a baby hippo, reported Daily News. Lamduan has quickly become a new favourite among tourists, with many sharing photos and videos of her on social media. While Moo Deng remains a viral sensation in Chonburi, Lamduan's appeal is growing, attracting visitors from across Thailand, and now, even international tourists like this British man. Despite the unexpected journey, the British visitor was pleased to be part of Lamduan’s growing fanbase, calling it an unforgettable experience. -- 2024-10-21

ThaiHealth Forum Urges Enhanced Child Road Safety Measures Picture courtesy; MGR online A public forum, hosted by the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth) and the Working Group on Welfare Policy for Young Children, was convened on Friday to spotlight road safety for children in Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341227-thaihealth-forum-urges-enhanced-child-road-safety-measures/

A public forum, hosted by the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth) and the Working Group on Welfare Policy for Young Children, was convened on Friday to spotlight road safety for children in Thailand. The event highlighted the urgent need to address road safety concerns, particularly for children who rely on public transport for school commutes, making them notably vulnerable. Associate Professor Sunee Chairoj, leader of the comprehensive welfare policy initiative, cited a 2022 Rangsit University study uncovering worrying trends: among Thailand's 4.3 million young children, around two million use public transport regularly, exposing them to road threats like driver negligence, poorly maintained vehicles, and overall lack of rule enforcement. In response, the group advocates for enhanced policies, regulations, and stricter safety standards. A key proposal from the forum is the introduction of the children's book "Drive Safely to the Beach" in schools, aiming to bolster road-safety skills among young Thais. This initiative is supported by alarming statistics from ThaiHealth's Office of Child, Youth, and Family Health Promotion. In 2023, the Ministry of Public Health reported 17,498 road accident deaths, with children and youth making up a distressing segment—approximately 10 fatalities each day, revealing that one in five road deaths affects young people. Contributing factors include non-use of helmets by 90.7% of riders, alcohol-affected driving at 38.3%, and non-use of seatbelts in 37.5% of cases. The forum stressed an urgent imperative for government intervention to prioritise children's safety on the roads. Additional suggestions include enhancing school transport safety through better management of school, bus, and field trip vehicle systems, encouraging helmet use, and embedding road safety education within school curricula, reported Tha Nation. Saree Aongsomwang from the Office of the Consumer Protection Board proposed developing a transportation safety curriculum and a special driver's licence for student transport vehicles, reiterating a need for immediate action to safeguard young lives. Picture courtesy; MGR online -- 2024-10-21

Thais Sceptical of Celebrity Endorsements, Survey Reveals File photo for reference only. // Picture courtesy: appdisqus A recent poll conducted by the National Institute of Development Administration (Nida) has revealed that a significant number of Thais are sceptical about celebrity endorsements. This dip in trust comes at a turbulent time following the iCon scam, which has heightened consumer wariness. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341223-thais-sceptical-of-celebrity-endorsements-survey-reveals/

File photo for reference only. // Picture courtesy: appdisqus A recent poll conducted by the National Institute of Development Administration (Nida) has revealed that a significant number of Thais are sceptical about celebrity endorsements. This dip in trust comes at a turbulent time following the iCon scam, which has heightened consumer wariness. The survey, conducted from October 15-16, interviewed 1,310 Thais aged 18 and over, spanning various educational and occupational backgrounds. The aim was to assess public opinion on the influence of celebrity endorsements on their purchasing decisions. Results show that 42.21% of participants felt no impact from celebrity endorsements on their buying choices, while 22.98% were significantly influenced. A smaller segment, 19.01%, admitted to a moderate impact, and 0.31% were either unsure or indifferent. When questioned about the authenticity of celebrities or influencers using the products they endorse, 52.29% doubted their genuine use. Only 3.89% believed these celebrities really use the products in their daily lives. This illustrates a prevailing scepticism among consumers regarding the authenticity of such promotions. The poll further delved into perceptions of promotions with heavy discounts or freebies. Over a third, 34.12%, associate these offers with low product quality. Meanwhile, 30.23% view them merely as marketing strategies. In terms of seeking assistance when deceived or treated unfairly in transactions, 24.81% of respondents would turn to the press for help, closely followed by 23.05% preferring to report to police stations, reported Bangkok Post. The findings of this survey highlight a growing distrust among Thais towards celebrity endorsements, reflecting a broader demand for authenticity and transparency in advertising. As consumers become more discerning, brands may need to rethink their marketing tactics to build and maintain trust. File photo for reference only. // Picture courtesy: appdisqus -- 2024-10-21

5,600 People Accuse iCon Group of 1.6 Billion Baht Scam Picture courtesy: MGR online In a stunning turn of events, 5,600 individuals have lodged formal complaints, alleging losses of 1.6 billion baht linked to their dealings with The iCon Group's direct sales business. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341220-5600-people-accuse-icon-group-of-16-billion-baht-scam/

Picture courtesy: MGR online In a stunning turn of events, 5,600 individuals have lodged formal complaints, alleging losses of 1.6 billion baht linked to their dealings with The iCon Group's direct sales business. This growing scandal is now under the microscope of Thai authorities who are preparing to level money laundering charges against those involved. Complaints began surfacing between October 10th and 20th as people from across the nation, and even from overseas, came forward. So far, police have interviewed 2,822 individuals who claim a collective loss of approximately 965 million baht through investments in The iCon Group's dietary supplements. Police plan to implement additional charges against 18 suspects at The iCon Group, including allegations of money laundering, fraudulent borrowing, and unlawful assembly. Investigators hope to wrap up this aspect of the case by the end of the week. Furthermore, more arrests are on the horizon, including those of larger dealers overseeing smaller networks. Initially, accusations against The iCon Group involved public fraud and computer-related crimes for falsely presenting information. Many franchisees, having paid hefty sums for dealership rights, complain they were unable to move products as promised by the company during training sessions. Adding to the pressure, Thailand Consumer Protection Police Division has seized four vehicles tied to The iCon Group, including luxury Lexuses and a Toyota van. Among the claimants was a 70-year-old man from Macau, who attended a training session in Thailand last year. He invested 250,000 baht, attracted by a Thai acquaintance from Hong Kong who had his own stakes in the business. Now, rattled by emerging revelations, he too has filed his grievance in Bangkok. With each new complaint, the web surrounding The iCon Group grows more tangled, casting a shadow over the direct sales industry in Thailand, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-10-21

Thai Parties Dismiss Election Commission's Investigation into Thaksin Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Petition over ex-premier's influence causing 'social unrest' Major Thai political parties have downplayed the Election Commission’s (EC) investigation into former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's alleged unlawful influence over the government. The petitions claim Thaksin exerted control over the ruling Pheu Thai Party and five other former coalition parties. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341219-thai-parties-dismiss-election-commissions-investigation-into-thaksin/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Petition over ex-premier's influence causing 'social unrest' Major Thai political parties have downplayed the Election Commission’s (EC) investigation into former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's alleged unlawful influence over the government. The petitions claim Thaksin exerted control over the ruling Pheu Thai Party and five other former coalition parties. The allegations stem from a meeting of the six party leaders at Thaksin's Ban Chan Song La residence in Bangkok on the day Srettha Thavisin was dismissed as Prime Minister. The EC has a 30-day deadline for the probe. Petitions from an anonymous individual, Thai Pakdee Party chairman Warong Dechgitvigrom, Ruangkrai Leekitwattana from the Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP), and Noppharut Worachitwutthikun from the Phirap Khao 2006 group, urge the EC to ask the court to dissolve all six parties for allegedly breaching Section 28 of the political parties’ law. Phumtham Wechayachai, Thailand's deputy prime minister and Pheu Thai Party leader, stated that the meeting was merely a gathering for a meal. Thaksin’s home is also the residence of his daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the current Prime Minister. Discussions at the meeting concerned potential replacements for Mr Srettha Thavisin, but the next day, Pheu Thai opted for Ms Paetongtarn, who secured the parliamentary vote. Bhumjaithai Party leader Anutin Charnvirakul, also Deputy Prime Minister, expressed no concern over the probe. PM’s Office Minister Chousak Sirinil noted the government's readiness to counter the petitions, arguing the absence of Thaksin’s dominance, reported Bangkok Post. Democrat Party's Thepthai Senpong suggested the EC's decision to investigate may have been influenced by photos of party leaders at Thaksin's residence. Proving unlawful influence requires substantial evidence, which could prolong the legal process. -- 2024-10-21