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Video screenshot Pattaya – In a worrying display of lawlessness, an Indian gang in Pattaya viciously attacked one of their own in broad daylight, leaving the victim sprawled on the ground while witnesses stood horrified. The incident occurred opposite Wat Chai Mongkhon on South Pattaya Road. The disturbing event was captured by surveillance cameras and witness videos. The footage begins with a tall man in a suit approaching a smaller man dressed in a white T-shirt and shorts. Without warning, the taller man grabs the smaller man's collar and starts punching him. Within moments, another man joins in, kicking and hitting the already assaulted individual. The victim tried to escape but was overpowered just in front of a nearby shop, where the attack escalated as more gang members joined in, despite the victim's desperate attempts to fend them off, reported News Channel 7. The gang's brutal treatment of their fellow member indicates a brazen disregard for public order, raising serious concerns among residents and local businesses. Even as onlookers shouted that the police were on their way, nearly ten gang members continued their assault before eventually dispersing as sirens were heard approaching. Our site visit revealed a grim reality. According to a local motorcycle taxi driver, brawls involving members of this Indian gang occur all too frequently. Each time the police are alerted, the gang members scatter and evade arrest, only to return later and resume their violent behaviour. This particular incident has amplified calls from locals for more frequent police patrols in the area. There is a growing fear that future altercations could involve weapons, putting innocent bystanders at risk. Residents are desperate for a more robust police presence to curb the escalating violence and restore a sense of security in their community. The local authorities have yet to release an official statement on their plans to address this ongoing issue, but community leaders are urging immediate action before the situation deteriorates further. -- 2024-08-23 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand's Constitutional Court Dissolves 111 Parties Since 1997 File photo courtesy: Thai Post ANALYSIS Since its establishment in October 1997, Thailand’s Constitutional Court has dissolved a staggering 111 political parties for a host of reasons. These dissolutions often stem from serious allegations such as non-compliance with established rules, lack of proper qualifications, and attempts to destabilise the political system with the King as head of state. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336256-thailands-constitutional-court-dissolves-111-parties-since-1997/

File photo courtesy: Thai Post ANALYSIS Since its establishment in October 1997, Thailand’s Constitutional Court has dissolved a staggering 111 political parties for a host of reasons. These dissolutions often stem from serious allegations such as non-compliance with established rules, lack of proper qualifications, and attempts to destabilise the political system with the King as head of state. Many of the dissolved parties were initially small, obscure entities; however, some were prominent, impacting Thailand's political landscape significantly. Under the current 2017 Constitution alone, four parties have been dissolved. Thai Raksa Chart was dissolved in March 2019 for nominating a royal family member for prime minister. Future Forward was dissolved in February 2020 due to an illegal loan from its leader, Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, resulting in a 10-year political ban on 16 of its executives. Thairaktham, a micro-party, was shut down in October 2022 for offering incentives to attract members. Most recently, Move Forward was dissolved on August 7 for attempting to amend Article 112 concerning lese majeste laws, resulting in a decade-long ban on its 11 executives. Over the past 27 years, three parties linked to former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra have also fallen. Thai Rak Thai was dissolved in May 2007 for undermining the political system by manipulating smaller parties to contest elections. People’s Power Party experienced a similar fate in December 2008 due to electoral fraud. Thai Raksa Chart, another proxy, was dissolved in March 2019 for nominating a royal member as a prime ministerial candidate. Critics argue that the court's actions seem to weaponise the judiciary to control opposition to the conservative establishment. Simultaneously, proponents suggest the court is merely shielding democracy from manipulation by unethical players, reported Thai PBS. Interestingly, among the survivors are the Democrats, Thailand’s oldest political party, which narrowly escaped dissolution in 2010. The cases against them were dismissed on technicalities, showcasing the intricate judicial balancing act in the nation's tumultuous political theatre. The Constitutional Court remains a pivotal institution, reflecting Thailand's ongoing struggle between reformist ambitions and entrenched conservative norms. -- 2024-08-23 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Hot Pot Buffet Closes After 20 Successful Years Picture courtesy: Prachachat Hot Pot Buffet, a beloved restaurant chain, has announced its closure after two decades of serving mouth-watering shabu and grill dishes. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336253-hot-pot-buffet-closes-after-20-successful-years/

Hot Pot Buffet, a beloved restaurant chain, has announced its closure after two decades of serving mouth-watering shabu and grill dishes. In a heartfelt post on its Facebook page, which boasts over a million followers, the management shared the unfortunate news, confirming widespread speculation following reduced outlet operations. The establishment, originally named "Coca Fresh Suki," first opened its doors in 2004 and quickly gained a loyal following. The restaurant's winning formula of a delectable shabu and grill buffet saw it flourish, leading to its listing on the Stock Exchange and eventual expansion to 117 outlets across the region. However, the restaurant industry is notoriously challenging, and Hot Pot Buffet faced a host of hurdles over the years. Increased competition also arose, with numerous rivals seeking to capture a piece of the market segment Hot Pot Buffet once dominated. Coupled with the severe economic downturn brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic, the chain began to struggle. Management responded by gradually closing outlets, a process that by 2012 had reduced the number of locations to 33. Fast forward to the current year, only four outlets remained operational. Today's closure marks the end of an era for a restaurant chain that held a special place in the hearts of its customers. The farewell message from the management thanked loyal patrons for their support and reminisced about the good times that contributed to the brand's legacy, reported THai Newsroom. Though saddened by the closure, many loyal fans have taken to social media to share fond memories and express gratitude for the dining experiences Hot Pot Buffet provided. The restaurant's journey might have come to a halt, but its legacy of bringing people together over delicious meals will not soon be forgotten. TOP: Picture courtesy: Prachachat -- 2024-08-23 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Friday 23 August 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336252-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-friday-23-august-2024/

A search and rescue operation continued last night following a small plane crash into a mangrove forest in Chachoengsao yesterday afternoon. The Cessna Caravan C208, carrying nine people, departed from Suvarnabhumi Airport at 2:46 en route to Trat, contact was lost around 15 minutes later. All nine people on board, including four Thai and five Chinese nationals, were killed. Thailand's FDA has initiated the registration process for mpox diagnostic test kits in response to rising concerns over the spread of the viral infection. Suppliers are encouraged to register their products online to ensure the availability of these kits, which are crucial for maintaining public health security. Thailand confirmed Asia's first known case of a new, deadlier strain of mpox yesterday. The National Anti-Corruption Commission has accused a former chief of the Marine Police and two other senior police officers of being "unusually rich". The former chief allegedly demanded monthly bribes from a gang of oil smugglers and legitimate fuel traders to be deposited in five bank accounts, amounting to over 36 million baht. The MRTA announced plans to develop a light rail system in Phuket, Chiang Mai, Nakhon Ratchasima and Phitsanulok, at a cost of 77 billion baht. Bidding for the projects is expected to start in 2026 with construction likely to begin as soon as 2028. Around the region South Korea, a fire killed at least six people and injured 11 others yesterday, Todays Weather Chiang Mai and the north: thundershowers 30C degrees celsius Bangkok: Bright, cloudy thundershowers,34 Pattaya: Cloudy with showers, 32 Phuket and the south: thunderstorms, 30 Hua Hin: sunny becoming cloudy isolated showers 33C Much the same over the weekend . AQI: green which is good Green clear, yellow moderate, Orange High, Red unhealthy. Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Wunderground.com The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Windy.com. -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-08-23 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Journalists Demand Probe After Gen Prawit Slaps Reporter File photo courtesy: Thai Rath The News Broadcasting Council of Thailand and the Thai Broadcast Journalists Association have called for an ethics inquiry into Palang Pracharath Party leader Gen Prawit Wongsuwon’s alleged slapping of a reporter. The incident, which was captured on video last Friday, has stirred significant controversy and prompted demands for accountability. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336251-journalists-demand-probe-after-gen-prawit-slaps-reporter/

File photo courtesy: Thai Rath The News Broadcasting Council of Thailand and the Thai Broadcast Journalists Association have called for an ethics inquiry into Palang Pracharath Party leader Gen Prawit Wongsuwon’s alleged slapping of a reporter. The incident, which was captured on video last Friday, has stirred significant controversy and prompted demands for accountability. The president of NBCT, Supan Rakchuea, stated that the video shows Gen Prawit, a former deputy prime minister, slapping a female reporter on the head with his right hand. The reporter had asked him about the House's election of Pheu Thai Party leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra as the new prime minister. Rakchuea mentioned this isn't the first instance of such behaviour from Gen Prawit, highlighting the need for political ethics and protection of journalistic duties. The formal complaint refers to clauses 12 and 13 of the parliamentary code of conduct. Clause 12 requires MPs to respect others' rights and freedoms and refrain from insulting behaviour. Clause 13 prohibits threats or physical assaults by MPs during parliamentary activities or elsewhere. Penalties for violations include warnings, condemnation, or an apology before the House. Prawit's party, Palang Pracharath, is the third-largest coalition party, holding 40 MPs. However, the party faces internal conflicts. On Tuesday, the party’s secretary-general, Thamanat Prompow, announced the formation of an independent faction loyal to him. He claimed support from 29 MPs, speculating that the party would not reappoint him for a cabinet position due to his controversial past. Thamanat had served four years in an Australian prison for a 1994 heroin importation conviction. Journalists’ groups argue that politicians must be held to ethical standards, highlighting the importance of respecting the press's role in democracy. They urged politicians to abstain from hostile interactions and simply decline to comment when unwilling to answer questions. The outcome of the ethics inquiry could set a significant precedent for the treatment of journalists in Thailand. The News Broadcasting Council of Thailand and the Thai Broadcast Journalists Association have called for an ethics inquiry into Palang Pracharath Party leader Gen Prawit Wongsuwon’s alleged slapping of a reporter. The incident, which was captured on video last Friday, has stirred significant controversy and prompted demands for accountability. The president of NBCT, Supan Rakchuea, stated that the video shows Gen Prawit, a former deputy prime minister, slapping a female reporter on the head with his right hand. The reporter had asked him about the House's election of Pheu Thai Party leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra as the new prime minister. Rakchuea mentioned this isn't the first instance of such behaviour from Gen Prawit, highlighting the need for political ethics and protection of journalistic duties. The formal complaint refers to clauses 12 and 13 of the parliamentary code of conduct. Clause 12 requires MPs to respect others' rights and freedoms and refrain from insulting behaviour. Clause 13 prohibits threats or physical assaults by MPs during parliamentary activities or elsewhere. Penalties for violations include warnings, condemnation, or an apology before the House. Prawit's party, Palang Pracharath, is the third-largest coalition party, holding 40 MPs. However, the party faces internal conflicts. On Tuesday, the party’s secretary-general, Thamanat Prompow, announced the formation of an independent faction loyal to him. He claimed support from 29 MPs, speculating that the party would not reappoint him for a cabinet position due to his controversial past. Thamanat had served four years in an Australian prison for a 1994 heroin importation conviction. Journalists’ groups argue that politicians must be held to ethical standards, highlighting the importance of respecting the press's role in democracy. They urged politicians to abstain from hostile interactions and simply decline to comment when unwilling to answer questions. The outcome of the ethics inquiry could set a significant precedent for the treatment of journalists in Thailand, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-08-23 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thaksin Shinawatra: No political agreement was made to secure my return FILE - Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, center, arrives at Don Muang airport in Bangkok, Thailand, on Aug. 22, 2023. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit, File) Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra made his first public appearance post-pardon, quashing rumours of political agreements with rivals. Addressing over 1,400 attendees in Bangkok, he asserted, “There is no deal; no one dares do a deal with me.” Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336250-thaksin-shinawatra-no-political-agreement-was-made-to-secure-my-return/

FILE - Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, center, arrives at Don Muang airport in Bangkok, Thailand, on Aug. 22, 2023. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit, File) Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra made his first public appearance post-pardon, quashing rumours of political agreements with rivals. Addressing over 1,400 attendees in Bangkok, he asserted, “There is no deal; no one dares do a deal with me.” Thaksin's dramatic return last year saw an eight-year jail sentence, commuted to one year and culminating in his recent pardon. He avoided prison, staying in hospital and swiftly receiving parole. In his speech, Thaksin confidently stated that Thailand’s economic woes would not worsen, highlighting the capabilities of the current Pheu Thai government, headed by his daughter, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. He vigorously defended the party’s 450-billion-baht digital wallet scheme aimed at economic revitalisation. “We need to stimulate the economy as our country has grown slowly for a long time,” he emphasized, stressing the urgency, reported Bangkok Post. The forum, hosted by a local media group, offered Thaksin a platform for economic discourse, including cautionary suggestions of protectionism against low-cost Chinese imports to ensure fair competition. “We don’t dislike Chinese products, but we must find equality in competition,” he noted. Thaksin’s vision for addressing long-term economic issues also included tackling Thailand’s significant household and public debt. He advocated for restructuring initiatives and fostering collaboration between the government and the Bank of Thailand. “Thailand and its people are trapped in debt,” he explained, urging comprehensive action led by the finance ministry. In discussing potential economic policies, Thaksin emphasized the need for small protectionist measures to safeguard domestic industries without hindering international trade. His remarks reflect broader regional concerns, pushing for balanced free trade and local economic stability. Despite his significant influence, Thaksin clarified he seeks no political role. His daughter Paetongtarn faces the challenge of rejuvenating the economy amidst high household debt, sluggish exports, and rising living costs. As she finalizes her cabinet, Thaksin’s legacy and strategic insights are pivotal to Thailand’s political and economic future. -- 2024-08-23 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thaksin's advisor Phumtham tipped to be named defence minister Pictures courtesy: Thai Rath Speculation is mounting in Bangkok that Phumtham Wechayachai may soon be named Thailand's new defence minister. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336248-thaksins-advisor-phumtham-tipped-to-be-named-defence-minister/

Pictures courtesy: Thai Rath Speculation is mounting in Bangkok that Phumtham Wechayachai may soon be named Thailand's new defence minister. A close advisor to former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, Phumtham is currently serving as Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister. If appointed, he would replace the acting Defence Minister Sutin Khlungsang in a Cabinet reshuffle orchestrated by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Thaksin's daughter. The potential appointment of Phumtham, a civilian, signals a strategic move to bridge relations with military commanders. Assisting him possibly would be retired General Nattapol Nakpanich, a former Deputy Army Chief and current acting Secretary-General to the Defence Minister. Nattapol's deep military ties and history with ex-Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha may ease this transition. The rumoured reshuffle coincides with a possible shift in political alliances. The Democrat Party, traditionally in opposition, might see 21 of its 25 MPs joining the Pheu Thai-led coalition. In return, they could secure key ministerial positions in agriculture and interior sectors. However, senior Democrat figures like Chuan Leekpai and Jurin Laksanavisit are expected to resist this move, reported Thai Newsroom. Democrat leader Chalermchai Sri-on, having previously eyed coalition opportunities under the court-deposed Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, remains a strong advocate for this alliance. Party Secretary-General Det-it Khaothong and Chalermchai are tipped for ministerial roles if the merge proceeds. In contrast, the future of Palang Pracharath Party’s participation in the government remains uncertain due to internal conflicts over ministerial positions. Relations between leader Prawit Wongsuwan and Secretary-General Thammanat Prompao are particularly strained, fuelling speculations of an imminent political exodus of MPs loyal to Thammanat. The complexity of these political manoeuvres adds another layer of intrigue to Thailand's already dynamic political landscape. This potential reshuffle could reshape alliances and define the country's strategic direction in the years to come. -- 2024-08-23 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

15 million people to receive cash instead of digital wallet payments FILE - courtesy NBT Thailand Thailand’s Pheu Thai-led government is set to give 15 million citizens 10,000 baht in cash, eschewing a planned digital wallet scheme. The “fragile” groups, primarily state welfare cardholders, are in line for this direct cash handout. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336246-15-million-people-to-receive-cash-instead-of-digital-wallet-payments/

FILE - courtesy NBT Thailand Thailand’s Pheu Thai-led government is set to give 15 million citizens 10,000 baht in cash, eschewing a planned digital wallet scheme. The “fragile” groups, primarily state welfare cardholders, are in line for this direct cash handout. Under Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, daughter of influential Pheu Thai figure Thaksin Shinawatra, this move reflects a shift in strategy. Initially, the Pheu Thai party had championed a digital wallet project, a signature initiative conceived under Thaksin’s vision. However, the plan has faced delays and now seems unlikely to proceed. The one-time cash payment aims to support individuals, who make up nearly a third of Thailand’s adult population. This shift in policy will cost an estimated 122 billion baht, sourced from a supplementary budget in the government’s Central Fund. An earlier projection posited that around 45 million Thais aged 16 or older would take part in the digital wallet scheme. While more than 30 million people have registered for the digital wallet via the Stateway App, the government has yet to confirm if the initiative will ever be realized. Former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin had planned to roll out the digital wallets by the fourth quarter of the year. The digital wallet was designed for purchases of up to 10,000 baht on essential goods within residents' home districts. Prohibited items included luxury goods, alcohol, cigarettes, and services like spa treatments and fitness centres. It remains to be seen how the cash handout will be received compared to the digital wallet project. The pragmatic shift to direct cash aims to deliver immediate relief, though it diverges from the initially envisioned, and arguably more modern, digital approach. The government’s latest decision reflects a broader trend of using direct financial aid to support citizens in challenging economic times. Whether this will forge sustained economic improvement remains to be observed. -- 2024-08-23 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 23 August 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1336239-thailand-live-friday-23-august-2024/

Thailand's Tourism Surge Threatened by Zero-Dollar Chinese Tours File photo for reference only Thailand's tourism industry, currently experiencing rapid growth due to a new visa-free policy, is catering to a large influx of international visitors. However, even though Chinese tourists make up the majority, issues are emerging regarding Chinese zero-dollar tours. These tours are potentially decreasing Thailand's potential revenue. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336225-thailands-tourism-surge-threatened-by-zero-dollar-chinese-tours/

Foreign man caught standing naked in cannabis shop in Phuket Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ A picture of a naked foreign man proudly showing off the family jewels inside a cannabis shop in the Patong neighbourhood of Phuket went viral on Thai social media. The reason for his nakedness is still under investigation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336223-foreign-man-caught-standing-naked-in-cannabis-shop-in-phuket/

Picture from responders. The Cessna Caravan C208 aircraft that crashed, was carrying five foreign passengers, all Chinese nationals, with two pilots and two flight attendants, total of 9 onboard. It is assumed that there were no survivors. Aircraft Crash in Chachoengsao, 9 Assumed Dead, Including 2 Children Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336202-22-august-small-aircraft-crash-in-chachoengsao/

UPDATE: Japanese man loses 310,000 baht to visa scam and corrupt police by Petch Petpailin Photo via MGR Online A Japanese man filed a complaint with the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) after losing 300,000 baht in a visa scam and an additional 10,000 baht to a corrupt Thai cyber cop. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336147-sergeant-helps-japanese-man-report-visa-scam-amid-mounting-losses/?do=findComment&comment=19169874

Japanese man loses 310,000 baht to visa scam and corrupt police by Petch Petpailin Photo via MGR Online A Japanese man filed a complaint with the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) after losing 300,000 baht in a visa scam and an additional 10,000 baht to a corrupt Thai cyber cop. The victim, 51 year old Shinichi Maeda, who runs a clothing export business in Thailand, revealed to CIB police that he has been living in Thailand for 20 years and running his business in the country for about 14 years. Seeking a long-term visa, he hired a Thai man named Jakkapong to handle the process. Jakkapong claimed he could offer Shinichi a visa for a permanent stay in Thailand for just 20,000 baht. Shinichi paid Jakkapong the amount in 2019 but never received the promised visa. Jakkapong repeatedly requested amounts between 20,000 and 30,000 baht from Shinichi, claiming they were for operational costs. Shinichi transferred money to Jakkapong 16 times, resulting in a total loss of 300,000 baht. Jakkapong falsely attributed the delay in processing the visa to the pandemic and other reasons until Shinichi decided to take the matter to the Immigration Bureau in 2023. Immigration police reviewed Shinichi’s visa and discovered that he failed to submit some documents and engaged in bribery of officials. Shinichi asked the immigration police for advice on how to resolve the issue and renew his visa and they directed him to consult with the cyber police. Shinichi then met with a cyber police officer, who summoned Jakkapong for questioning and drafted a loan agreement between Shinichi and Jakkapong, in which Jakkapong agreed to return all the money he had swindled from Shinichi. Unexpectedly, this police officer demanded a bribe of 2,000 baht and an operational cost of 3,000 baht from Shinichi. The officer also borrowed 5,000 baht from Shinichi, promising to repay it soon. Shinichi found that his issue remained unresolved and grew concerned that the suspects might physically assault him or that he could be deported and banned from the country. Channel 7 reported that Jakkapong was recently charged in April by Petchkasem Police Station for running a visa scam on a Chinese national. Many victims have previously filed complaints against him. However, there has been no report of the next step in the legal process in this case, and the identity of the corrupt cop has not been made public. Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-22 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Australian tourists help collect rubbish on Koh Samui (video) by Puntid Tantivangphaisal video screenshot A group of Australian tourists on Koh Samui became an unexpected viral sensation by helping local municipal workers collect rubbish in the early morning hours. Their enthusiastic efforts, captured on video, brought smiles and laughter to viewers, especially Thais. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336171-australian-tourists-help-collect-rubbish-on-koh-samui-video/

video screenshot A group of Australian tourists on Koh Samui became an unexpected viral sensation by helping local municipal workers collect rubbish in the early morning hours. Their enthusiastic efforts, captured on video, brought smiles and laughter to viewers, especially Thais. The incident took place yesterday at around 4am, today, August 22, when the tourists, hanging off the back of a garbage truck, eagerly assisted in lifting and emptying bins. Their spirited participation left a lasting impression on anyone who passed by, with some even shouting praises. The video that captured this endearing moment was shared on TikTok by a user who mentioned being so charmed by the scene that they had to turn their car around to record it. “Aussie guys, it was around 4am, and we drove past them. We had to turn back to capture their cuteness. Sorry for the laughter in the background, we were drunk, and they were just too adorable.” The clip quickly gained traction online, with viewers expressing their admiration for the tourists’ unexpected act of kindness. The tourists’ actions were not only endearing but also demonstrated a sense of community and willingness to help, even while on holiday, reported KhaoSod. The video shows the group of tourists energetically lifting bins and dumping the rubbish into the truck, all while maintaining high spirits. Their cheerful attitude and willingness to get their hands dirty were met with applause and cheers from onlookers, said another unnamed resident. “It’s not often you see tourists going out of their way to help with such a thankless task. These guys are amazing! “It’s so heartwarming to see people from different parts of the world coming together and helping out, even in small ways like this. It restores your faith in humanity.” Locals who witnessed the scene expressed their gratitude and amazement at the tourists’ actions. “Seeing them help out like this so early in the morning was truly inspiring. It shows that kindness knows no boundaries.” by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-22 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

PM Paetongtarn Thanks Leaders of India, Indonesia, Maldives, and U.S. FILE - Thailand's new Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra talks to media members after receiving a royal letter of endorsement for the post at the Pheu Thai party headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand Sunday, Aug. 18, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra expressed gratitude via Twitter (X) for congratulations from leaders of India, Indonesia, the Maldives, and the U.S. Secretary of State. The acknowledgments came after her recent appointment as Thailand’s Prime Minister. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336164-pm-paetongtarn-thanks-leaders-of-india-indonesia-maldives-and-us/

FILE - Thailand's new Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra talks to media members after receiving a royal letter of endorsement for the post at the Pheu Thai party headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand Sunday, Aug. 18, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra expressed gratitude via Twitter (X) for congratulations from leaders of India, Indonesia, the Maldives, and the U.S. Secretary of State. The acknowledgments came after her recent appointment as Thailand’s Prime Minister. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Paetongtarn with these words: “Congratulations Prime Minister Paetongtarn on your election as the Prime Minister of Thailand. Best wishes for a very successful tenure. Look forward to working with you to further strengthen the bilateral ties between India and Thailand, that are based on strong foundations of civilizational, cultural and people to people connect.” Paetongtarn responded, “Thank you, Prime Minister Modi, for your warm congratulatory message. I look forward to working closely with you to further strengthen our bilateral relations, especially in trade and investment, culture, people-to-people contact, and tourism, aiming to increase air travel between both countries. I am confident that we can build upon our existing ties and explore untapped potentials to create even greater opportunities for our two countries, peoples and beyond.” Indonesian President Joko Widodo also shared his congratulations: “I wish to congratulate Her Excellency Paetongtarn Shinawatra on her appointment as the Prime Minister of Thailand. I believe that under her able leadership, Indonesia & Thailand will continue to strengthen our bilateral relations and beyond, including on enhancing cooperation within ASEAN.” To this, Paetongtarn replied, “Thank you, President Joko Widodo, for your kind words of congratulations. Thailand and Indonesia have always been good friends and partners in ASEAN. As we celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Thailand – Indonesia diplomatic relations in 2025, I look forward to strengthening cooperation for mutual benefits.” The President of Maldives, Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, extended his warm wishes: “Warm congratulations to Prime Minister Paetongtarn on being appointed as the youngest Prime Minister of Thailand. Thailand is poised to enter a new era of prosperity under your able leadership. I look forward to working together to further strengthen the close ties of friendship and mutual cooperation between the Maldives and Thailand.” Paetongtarn responded, “Thank you, President Muizzu, for your kind congratulations and confidence in my leadership. Thailand values its long-standing relations with the Maldives. I look forward to enhancing our partnership in all sectors.” Finally, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken congratulated her with the message, “Congratulations to Prime Minister Paetongtarn on her selection as Thailand’s next prime minister. We look forward to engaging with Prime Minister Paetongtarn to further strengthen the enduring alliance between the United States and Thailand.” The Prime Minister expressed gratitude, “Thank you, Secretary Blinken, for the congratulatory message. I look forward to working closely with the U.S. to strengthen our long-standing alliance and advance our multi-faceted partnership for the benefit of our countries, peoples, and the region.” These responses reflect Paetongtarn's commitment to fostering strong international relationships and enhancing diplomatic ties, reported Pattaya Mail. -- 2024-08-22 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe