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Pattaya Residents Unite to Defend Dignity Against "Sin -City " Media Reports Picture courtesy: Daily News In the wake of sensational media reports labeling Pattaya as a "Sinful City, Paradise for Prostitutes," local business leaders and community representatives have come together to defend the city's image and appeal for a balanced portrayal. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332758-pattaya-residents-unite-to-defend-dignity-against-sin-city-media-reports/

Picture courtesy: Daily News In the wake of sensational media reports labeling Pattaya as a "Sinful City, Paradise for Prostitutes," local business leaders and community representatives have come together to defend the city's image and appeal for a balanced portrayal. The negative depiction has sparked significant backlash from the local community, concerned about the impact on Pattaya's tourism and reputation. On July 11, at the bustling entrance of Pattaya's renowned Walking Street, a gathering organized by key figures in the local tourism sector voiced their concerns. Among them were Lisa Hamilton, President of the Pattaya Nightlife Business Association, and Boon-anan Pattanasin, President of the Pattaya Business and Tourism Association, both advocating for a more positive media narrative. Picture courtesy: Daily News Lisa Hamilton emphasized that Pattaya is more than its nightlife, offering a diverse array of attractions to cater to global tourists. The label of a 'sinful city' has overshadowed the contributions of other sectors within Pattaya's economy, affecting local morale and dignity. She called for responsibility in journalism and a shift towards stories that highlight Pattaya's varied tourism offerings. Meanwhile, Boon-anan Pattanasin underscored the importance of recognizing Pattaya as a city of opportunities. By focusing on legal, orderly, and socially responsible tourism practices, Pattaya can demonstrate its capacity as a thriving economic hub, beneficial to Thailand's broader economic landscape. Picture courtesy: Daily News Amporn Kaewsaeng, President of the Pattaya Entertainment and Tourism Industry Association, also weighed in, expressing her displeasure over the negative image portrayed. She defended the nightlife sector as a significant economic contributor, providing livelihoods for many who support their families through tourism-related activities. These leaders, along with others from the local business community, are calling for media support to reshape the narrative around Pattaya, promoting it as a city rich in opportunities and experiences beyond the nightlife for which it is internationally known. Picture courtesy: Daily News Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-07-12 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pakistani man arrested in Krabi for selling goods without work permit Picture courtesy: Siam Rath In a recent operation, a Pakistani man was detained by Krabi Immigration officials for selling goods without a valid work permit. The arrest occurred on Nong Thale Road in Mueang District, where the individual was reportedly offering items like jewelry and perfumes to tourists. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332755-pakistani-man-arrested-in-krabi-for-selling-goods-without-work-permit/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath In a recent operation, a Pakistani man was detained by Krabi Immigration officials for selling goods without a valid work permit. The arrest occurred on Nong Thale Road in Mueang District, where the individual was reportedly offering items like jewelry and perfumes to tourists. Authorities identified the man as Mr. Muhammad, 49, who entered Thailand on a tourist visa, utilizing a local mosque for accommodation while engaging in daily unauthorized sales activities. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath His apprehension was part of a broader crackdown carried out by Krabi Immigration and local police forces aimed at enforcing regulations around foreign employment and maintaining public safety and order. This initiative is particularly stringent in tourist-heavy locales like Krabi, where officials are vigilant against activities that could undermine local employment or pose risks to public safety. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath This incident underscores the ongoing efforts by Thai immigration authorities to manage foreign nationals' activities within the country rigorously. Tourists and expatriates are reminded to adhere strictly to the conditions of their visas and permits to avoid legal repercussions. Meanwhile, the local community and visitors are encouraged to report any suspicious activities, ensuring Krabi remains a safe destination for both tourists and residents. Please report it to Krabi Immigration at 075 611097. TOP Picture courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2024-07-12 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Hostage Crisis Ends in Fatal Shootout in Chiang Rai Picture courtesy: Khaosod In a dramatic turn of events in Chiang Rai, a hostage rescue attempt concluded tragically with a fatal shootout, claiming the life of an identified suspect linked to drugs and crime. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332753-hostage-crisis-ends-in-fatal-shootout-in-chiang-rai/

In a dramatic turn of events in Chiang Rai, a hostage rescue attempt concluded tragically with a fatal shootout, claiming the life of an identified suspect linked to drugs and crime. The operation, spearheaded by seasoned officers, unfolded on the evening of July 10 following a distress call about a kidnapping incident. The beginning of this harrowing incident was marked by the abduction of a woman named Pa (alias) from her residence in Rong Wiang Subdistrict. The kidnapper, identified as Pa's estranged husband Phong (alias), executed the abduction at gunpoint, discharging his weapon before fleeing the scene with the victim. The police swiftly traced Phong to a remote location in Mae Lao District, Chiang Rai, where he sought refuge in a hut owned by Thak (alias), a criminal with a record of drug trafficking. As law enforcement encircled the hut, they were met with gunfire, instigating a shootout during which Thak was fatally wounded. Despite the chaos, police successfully apprehended Phong and rescued Pa unharmed. Thak succumbed to his injuries after attempts at resuscitation failed. Experts in the region are noting the significance of the response by the police, highlighting the effectiveness of the recently established armed units in each Chiang Rai police station. These units, part of a broader police policy reshaping, have specifically trained to manage severe criminal incidents ensuring rigorous coordination and quick response times, which were crucial in this high-stress situation. While the community reels from the violence, relief is palpable as the quick actions of the police prevented further harm to innocent lives. The operation also shone a light on the underlying issues of domestic violence and the illegal arms circulation in the region, sparking discussions on addressing these systemic problems more robustly. As investigations continue, the focus remains on reinforcing safety measures and public trust in law enforcement’s capacity to protect and serve, evident from the outcome of this critical intervention. Picture courtesy: Khaosod -- 2024-07-12 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

200 Senators Report For Duty Amid Election Controversy Picture courtesy: Manager Online In a key move within Thai politics, 200 new senators have reported for duty, following the close of a contentious election marred by allegations of irregularities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332751-200-senators-report-for-duty-amid-election-controversy/

In a key move within Thai politics, 200 new senators have reported for duty, following the close of a contentious election marred by allegations of irregularities. These appointments take place as the Thai Election Commission (EC) aggressively pursails investigations into accusations of election fraud and collusion that have tainted the voting process concluded on June 26. The reporting of these senators, expected to receive their official certificates by the end of the week, marks a significant transition as they replace the previous cohort appointed by a military-aligned administration in 2019. The shuffle is part of a broader electoral overhaul following Thailand’s latest three-stage senatorial elections. Meanwhile, the EC, collaborating with the Royal Thai Police, the Department of Special Investigation (DSI), and the Anti-Money Laundering Office, is probing deep into a myriad of complaints related to the conduct of these elections. Specific attention is being paid to potential collusion aimed at influencing the electoral results. During an intense meeting, EC officials declared that the election process adhered to the legal requisites, hence moving forward with the certification of results and validation of newly appointed senators. A notable event in the certification process was the disqualification of Senator-elect Kohdeeyoh Songngam due to ineligible political association, leading to Major Korapot Runghirunwat stepping into the vacated senate seat. Controversially, the Commission defended its execution of the election process against rising critique. EC Secretary-General Sawaeng Boonmee outlined the classification of grievances ranging from manipulation to breaches during the vote and issues with candidate qualifications. Out of 1,917 candidates scrutinised, over 600 were turned away for failing to meet eligibility criteria. This unfolding scenario highlights the EC’s stringent efforts to uphold electoral integrity amid swirling accusations. With the ultimate endorsement of the election results, the newly appointed Senate is now poised to embark on its legislative duties, even as the haze of contention lingers over its inception. Picture courtesy: Manager Online -- 2024-07-12 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Bangkok launches major drug prevention initiative with urine tests by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Bangkok is set to launch a significant drug prevention and control initiative today, July 12, with the capitol’s governor, Chadchart Sittipunt, directing district offices to coordinate with local police stations for urine testing in 88 communities identified as high-risk for drug abuse, aiming to bring users into treatment programs. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332749-bangkok-launches-major-drug-prevention-initiative-with-urine-tests/

Bangkok is set to launch a significant drug prevention and control initiative today, July 12, with the capitol’s governor, Chadchart Sittipunt, directing district offices to coordinate with local police stations for urine testing in 88 communities identified as high-risk for drug abuse, aiming to bring users into treatment programs. During an online Zoom meeting at the Bangkok City Hall, Chadchart chaired the Committee of the Bangkok Narcotics Control and Suppression Centre (BNCSSC). The meeting included key officials such as the Deputy Permanent Secretary of Bangkok, Chatri Watthanakhachon, representatives from the Bangkok Metropolitan Police Bureau, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration’s Health Department, district offices, and other related parties. The 58 year old Bangkok chief emphasised the urgency for relevant agencies to conduct urine testing in community areas. This directive aligns with the prime minister’s orders during the mobile Cabinet meeting in Nakhon Ratchasima. The initiative will see district offices collaborate with local police stations, the Bangkok Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB), and public health service centres to perform urine tests and identify drug users for entry into treatment programs. The operation will commence from this Friday onwards. The project will involve urine testing for individuals aged 12 to 65 years living in communities participating in the Sustainable Strong Community project, covering 88 communities. Furthermore, urine testing will also be conducted in the Community Based Treatment (CBTx) project, which includes 285 communities in total. Individuals deemed at risk of drug use, those previously uncooperative in treatment, those who have relapsed after psychiatric treatment for drug abuse, or those under probation or recently released from prison or juvenile detention, will be targeted for testing. The initiative also includes providing social rehabilitation through the CBTx process or referrals to medical facilities. The agencies involved are required to report the number of individuals tested and the number of patients admitted to treatment by July 31 on the Office of Drug Abuse Prevention and Treatment’s website. Additionally, urine testing will be conducted for at-risk students in 73 schools within monitored community areas, with schools also required to report their findings on the same website. by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-12 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Hua Hin News July: What’s happening? Events, roads and buses, the future, Lizzy Ginsel Hua Hin News with Andrew Sloan and Richard Buckle. Hua Hin Events, new transport links, road repairs, charity events, tourism growing in Hua Hin as the monsoon hits. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332747-hua-hin-news-july-what’s-happening-events-roads-and-buses-the-future-lizzy-ginsel/

Hua Hin News with Andrew Sloan and Richard Buckle. Hua Hin Events, new transport links, road repairs, charity events, tourism growing in Hua Hin as the monsoon hits. Do you think Hua Hin will become the next Pattaya? Please COMMENT, SUBSCRIBE, LIKE AND SHARE to support our channel. Our thanks to Richard Buckle of https://surf.radio for the Hua Hin Update.

Bangkok Drunk Driving Victims Network Opposes Repeal of Train Alcohol Ban By Kittisak Phalaharn National — On July 11th, 2024, Mr. Jessada Yamsabai, the President of the Bangkok Drunk Driving Victims Network, along with over 50 members of other networks, submitted a petition to acting Governor of the State Railway of Thailand, Jarae Rungthanee, opposing the repeal of the ban on alcohol sales and consumption on trains and at train stations. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332746-bangkok-drunk-driving-victims-network-opposes-repeal-of-train-alcohol-ban/

National — On July 11th, 2024, Mr. Jessada Yamsabai, the President of the Bangkok Drunk Driving Victims Network, along with over 50 members of other networks, submitted a petition to acting Governor of the State Railway of Thailand, Jarae Rungthanee, opposing the repeal of the ban on alcohol sales and consumption on trains and at train stations. Jessada referenced a tragic 2014 incident where a young girl was sexually assaulted and murdered by an intoxicated railway officer, an event that led to the establishment of the alcohol ban to enhance passenger safety. This ban was publicly announced on February 5th, 2015, under former Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, aimed at reducing accidents and ensuring passenger safety on trains. The network has consistently advocated for the reduction of alcohol consumption and monitored the enforcement of related laws to mitigate its societal impact. They strongly oppose the State Railway of Thailand’s proposal to the National Alcoholic Beverage Policy Committee to reconsider the ban on alcohol sales and consumption on trains and at train stations, purportedly to promote domestic tourism, Jesada said. By Kittisak Phalaharn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-07-12 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Digital Wallet Project Could Worsen from Crisis to Catastrophe Pita Limjaroenrat. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia In a stern warning delivered on the House floor, Move Forward MP Pita Limjaroenrat expressed concerns over the potential impact of the digital wallet initiative, spearheaded by the Pheu Thai party. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332745-digital-wallet-project-could-worsen-from-crisis-to-catastrophe/

In a stern warning delivered on the House floor, Move Forward MP Pita Limjaroenrat expressed concerns over the potential impact of the digital wallet initiative, spearheaded by the Pheu Thai party. The project, aimed at distributing 10,000 baht to eligible Thai citizens through digital wallets, has been seen as a strategy to alleviate the ongoing economic strains. However, according to Limjaroenrat, if mismanaged, this could morph the current financial crisis into a full-blown catastrophe. The original plan to fund this populist measure involved a loan of 172.3 billion baht from the Bank for Agriculture & Agricultural Cooperatives. The latest adjustments see this amount being sourced from the Central Fund, under direct control of Thailand's Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, reducing the earmarked funds from 500 to 450 billion baht. This shift represents a significant departure from earlier financial strategies, raising concerns about the government's fiscal discipline. Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat outlined that the revised funding would spread across the current and the next fiscal year, with 165 billion baht allocated initially and the remainder to follow. Despite the funding cuts, the government anticipates wide participation, estimating that between 80% and 90% of over 50 million eligible Thais will engage with the initiative. Limjaroenrat criticized the utilization of the Central Fund, traditionally reserved for emergencies such as natural disasters or major national crises, for the digital wallet project. He suggested that this could set a precarious precedent, potentially leading to significant economic losses. In response, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin assured transparency and adherence to legal frameworks in the execution of this campaign, promising that the project would roll out by the fourth quarter of this year. The Prime Minister is expected to further detail the initiative on July 24, clarifying the project's scope and objectives. Pita Limjaroenrat. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-07-12 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Finance Ministry Pushes 99-Year Leases for Foreigners Deputy Prime Minister and Finance minister Pichai Chunhavajira confirms the government is moving forward with a project to allow foreigners to lease condominiums for 99 years, aiming to stimulate the real estate sector, which has over 200,000 unsold units. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332744-finance-ministry-pushes-99-year-leases-for-foreigners/

Deputy Prime Minister and Finance minister Pichai Chunhavajira confirms the government is moving forward with a project to allow foreigners to lease condominiums for 99 years, aiming to stimulate the real estate sector, which has over 200,000 unsold units. Pichai on Wedensday gave a keynote speech and special discussion on the topic “Developing Sustainable Real Estate.” He acknowledged that the real estate business is currently facing issues with over 200,000 unsold condominium units. People are unable to purchase due to increasing household debt, a matter the Ministry of Finance and the government must urgently address to prevent further impact on Thailand’s overall economy. However, the Ministry of Finance sees that allowing foreigners to lease condominiums for 99 years is a suitable policy to reduce the backlog of unsold units. Yet, there must be clear zoning criteria determining where foreigners can lease, with each unit valued at more than 30-40 million baht. Full story: TNA-MCOT 2024-07-12 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

British-Thai couple ‘paws’ to save puppy from restaurant abuse by Petch Petpailin Photo via ThaiRath A Thai woman and her British husband rescued a puppy after a mentally ill Thai man abused the animal outside his restaurant in the Isaan province of Udon Thani. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332743-british-thai-couple-‘paws’-to-save-puppy-from-restaurant-abuse/

A Thai woman and her British husband rescued a puppy after a mentally ill Thai man abused the animal outside his restaurant in the Isaan province of Udon Thani. Officers from Mueang Udon Thani Police Station were alerted to the animal abuse at 11.20am today, July 11. They were called to the incident scene, a restaurant in Soi Adunlayadet 5 in Udon Thani. Police arrived at the scene to find the eatery closed and met the complainants at a nearby restaurant. The complainants were a 36 year old Thai woman Ratchanok Lueangsithong and her British husband, whose name was not disclosed. The foreign man was carrying a light brown puppy aged about two to three months. Ratchanok told police that her restaurant was located near the attacker’s restaurant, so she witnessed the abuse of the man, known as Boy. She saw Boy walking to his restaurant with the animal in his hand. He was carrying it by the neck and strangling it, making the puppy scream in pain. Ratchanok said she initially thought the puppy was a dead cat. She asked her aunt to check on the animal and found that it was a live puppy. Ratchanok then asked her husband to get the dog from Boy, but he refused to hand it over. “This is my dog. Here is Thailand. I can do anything with this dog. I can even eat it!” Ratchanok argued with Boy and threatened to record a video of the abuse and share it with the police. Her husband then took the puppy away from the scene. Boy returned to his restaurant and was not present when the police arrived. Ratchanok informed ThaiRath that Boy suffers from a mental illness caused by drug use. He had previously gone on a rampage, hurling various objects, such as a flower pot and a brick, at her restaurant. Although she had filed multiple complaints against him before, the police were unable to take action due to his mental condition. Chalida Dhammachaikun, a local who also witnessed the incident, told ThaiRath that she saw Boy press the puppy to the floor, strangle it with a rope, and kick it. She attempted to adopt the dog, but Boy refused. Police are letting Ratchanok and her husband take care of the puppy until its rightful owner claims it. The couple named the animal Lucky, as it was lucky to be saved from the abuse. Photo via ThaiRath Photo via ThaiRath TOP: Photo via ThaiRath by Petch Petpailin Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-12 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 12 July 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1332742-thailand-live-friday-12-july-2024/

Thailand tightens ‘feathered’ measures to curb avian flu outbreak Image courtesy of KhaoSod Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health is tightening measures to prevent the spread of avian flu. Hospitals near the Cambodian border are on high alert following Cambodia’s report of its seventh H5N1 case this year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332725-thailand-tightens-‘feathered’-measures-to-curb-avian-flu-outbreak/

Public Health Minister ramps up mental health hotline services Photo courtesy of The Nation To combat the intertwined issues of mental health and narcotics abuse, Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin has directed agencies to ramp up hotline services for greater efficiency. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332724-public-health-minister-ramps-up-mental-health-hotline-services/

The Minister of Public Health, Somsak Thepsutin, confirmed that a recent poll affirms most Thai citizens are in favor of designating marijuana as a drug due to the concerns regarding its effect on youngsters. Approximately 100,000 participants took part in a June 11 to 25 survey. Thai People Support the Reclassification of Marijuana as a Narcotic Substance Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332711-thai-people-support-the-reclassification-of-marijuana-as-a-narcotic-substance/

Thailand plans 50 billion baht tunnel expressway in Bangkok by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of Matichon The Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT) announced plans to construct a 50 billion baht tunnel expressway connecting Kaset and Ngamwongwan. Public opinion on the project will be gathered and considered on July 13. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332673-thailand-plans-50-billion-baht-tunnel-expressway-in-bangkok/