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Prominent Amata City Factory in Rayong to Shut Down by January 2025 File photo for reference only In an unexpected move that is set to impact the local economy significantly, a prominent factory located in the Amata City Industrial Estate in Rayong has announced its closure by January 2025. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332157-prominent-amata-city-factory-in-rayong-to-shut-down-by-january-2025/

In an unexpected move that is set to impact the local economy significantly, a prominent factory located in the Amata City Industrial Estate in Rayong has announced its closure by January 2025. This decision comes after operating for over two decades in the region, a period during which the company has become an integral part of the industrial landscape of Thailand. Established in 2003, the factory has been a key player in the manufacturing sector, employing thousands over the years and contributing extensively to the local economy. The closure is attributed to a series of economic challenges and shifts in global manufacturing demands, pushing the management to make this tough decision. The phased layoffs will begin immediately, aiming to disband the entire workforce smoothly by the year-end deadline. The company's departure is poised to leave a significant void in the region's economic structure. Over the years, it has not only supported direct employees but also stimulated local businesses, from suppliers to retail. The full implications of its closure are expected to ripple through the local economy, affecting everything from job availability to local GDP. Local government and business leaders are currently scrambling to address the impending economic impact, with plans to attract new ventures to the area and possibly retrain displaced workers for other industries. However, the task is monumental, and the shift will require significant strategic planning and investment. As this story develops, the focus remains on the employees facing unemployment and the broader economic ramifications for Rayong, a region that has heavily depended on the steady operation of this factory. The coming months will be crucial in determining how well the local economy can adapt to this significant change. TOP: File photo for reference only -- 2024-07-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Rescue After 3 Days: Elderly Man Freed from Bathroom Ordeal video screenshot: Facebook PPTV36 In a dramatic turn of events, 72-year-old Pornchai was rescued from his bathroom in Chon Buri, Thailand, after being trapped for three days. The incident began when Pornchai fell and could not get up, leading to an urgent response from local rescue services. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332156-rescue-after-3-days-elderly-man-freed-from-bathroom-ordeal/

video screenshot: Facebook PPTV36 In a dramatic turn of events, 72-year-old Pornchai was rescued from his bathroom in Chon Buri, Thailand, after being trapped for three days. The incident began when Pornchai fell and could not get up, leading to an urgent response from local rescue services. Pornchef had fallen early Sunday morning, slipping on the wet floor of his second-story bathroom. He was unable to rise or call out for help, and remained without food or significant movement until his rescue on Wednesday night. The ordeal came to an end after a friend of Pornchai's son, tasked to check on him, heard weak cries for help from the bathroom and broke into the window to assist. Rescue workers from the Sawang Rojanathamsathan Foundation arrived at the scene to find the elderly man in a debilitated state. They quickly administered first aid and transported him to Somdej Phra Nangchaosirikit Hospital for further medical attention. Reports confirm that Pornchai is now stable but remains under careful observation due to the severity of his condition and the duration of his immobility. This incident highlights the risks associated with the elderly living alone. It reminds us of the critical need for regular communication and check-ins with older relatives and friends, especially those who are vulnerable or have mobility issues. Furthermore, it underscores the importance of accessible emergency aid and the vital role that community vigilance plays in safeguarding the welfare of seniors. The community has reacted with relief and concern, sparking discussions on measures to prevent similar occurrences. Local authorities are considering initiatives to improve safety for seniors, emphasizing the necessity of installing emergency alert systems in homes of the elderly. -- 2024-07-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Foreigner Knocks Out Kuwaiti Tourist in Pattaya, Police Launch Hunt By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya — A foreign man in Pattaya allegedly assaulted a Kuwaiti tourist, leaving him unconscious. Police are hunting for the suspect as of press time. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332153-foreigner-knocks-out-kuwaiti-tourist-in-pattaya-police-launch-hunt/

Pattaya — A foreign man in Pattaya allegedly assaulted a Kuwaiti tourist, leaving him unconscious. Police are hunting for the suspect as of press time. The incident occurred at 5:30 AM on July 10th, 2024 in South Pattaya on Soi Yensabai. Eyewitness 43-year-old Mr. Sompong Rueangkham, a chicken rice vendor, informed The Pattaya News that he saw a foreign man violently attacking a Kuwaiti tourist, acting aggressively, and revving his car engine, causing fear among people in the vicinity. Mr. Sompong recounted witnessing the unidentified foreigner having a conflict with a Kuwaiti national. The perpetrator, believed to be Middle Eastern, arrived at the scene in a black Pajero with several companions. He confronted the Kuwaiti man, and a brawl ensued, resulting in the victim getting knocked out and lying on the ground. Mr. Sompong said the fight also involved a woman. Mr. Sompong showed a video clip of the attack to The Pattaya News team. The video depicted both parties engaged in a struggle over a Thai woman, followed by a fistfight. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-07-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Impeachment Hearing for PM Srettha Delayed Again Srettha Thavisin. Picture courtesy: Wikimedia In an expected yet significant turn of events, the Constitutional Court today pushed back the highly anticipated impeachment hearing concerning Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin to July 24. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332152-impeachment-hearing-for-pm-srettha-delayed-again/

In an expected yet significant turn of events, the Constitutional Court today pushed back the highly anticipated impeachment hearing concerning Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin to July 24. The case, which captures the nation's attention, accuses the Prime Minister of severe constitutional violations relating to the appointment of Pichit Chuenban as a minister attached to the Prime Minister’s Office. The controversy centers around Srettha’s choice of Pichit, a former lawyer known for his connections to political heavyweight Thaksin Shinawatra, and his past legal troubles including a stint in jail for contempt of court. Critics argue that Srettha’s decision undermines political ethics and hints at a deeper allegiance to Thaksin, potentially skewing governmental decision-making in favour of personal and political gain. This delay is not the first; the case has seen multiple postponements, reflecting the complex nature of the accusations and the detailed review required by the courts. Legal provisions and a bench of collective wisdom are being closely observed by the public and media alike, as they serve as a litmus test for the checks and balances critical to the country's democratic framework. Despite defense attempts, including an affidavit from Srettha denying all allegations of power abuse, the shadow of doubt continues to loom. With the imminent court date, both supporters and critics of the Prime Minister are holding their breath, awaiting a decision that could potentially alter the country’s political landscape. The impact of this case extends beyond the courtroom and political arenas as it challenges the integrity and perception of political appointments in Thailand. As the date approaches, all eyes remain on the Constitutional Court, awaiting a verdict that could redefine political accountability and governance. Srettha Thavisin. Picture courtesy: Wikimedia -- 2024-07-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Marijuana Protesters Go On Hunger Strike To Push For Enquiry Picture courtesy: Siam Rath In a bold move to influence governmental policy, marijuana advocates have commenced a hunger strike at Chamai Maruchet Bridge, directly in front of Government House. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332151-marijuana-protesters-go-on-hunger-strike-to-push-for-enquiry/

In a bold move to influence governmental policy, marijuana advocates have commenced a hunger strike at Chamai Maruchet Bridge, directly in front of Government House. This protest, initiated by the Network Writing the Future of Cannabis, urgently calls for a comprehensive inquiry before the government proceeds with its plans to reclassify marijuana as a narcotics substance by the year's end. Leading the charge are high-profile network members including Mr. Prasitschai Noonual, Mr. Akhordesh Sekajinda, and Ms. Chokwang "Kitty" Chophaka. They argue that marijuana, which has been utilized as a medicinal plant for over a millennium, is being unfairly targeted for reclassification without a just trial. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath The group feels strongly that the plant is being judged based on misplaced biases rather than scientific evidence and reasoned discourse. Their concerns are particularly poignant considering that just a year ago, on June 9, 2022, Thailand became the first Asian nation to decriminalize the recreational use of marijuana, building upon its legalization for medical purposes in 2018. Since this liberalization, the local marijuana market has flourished unusually quickly, opening up significant economic potential which, according to Reuters, could see the industry grow to a value of $1.2 billion by 2025, reported Thai Newsroom. The protesters are advocating for the establishment of a joint committee to accurately assess marijuana on several fronts: health impacts compared to tobacco and alcohol, social consequences, medicinal benefits, and potential to cause psychiatric issues. Their insistence on an inquiry seeks to ensure any legislative decision is informed by empirical evidence and comprehensive study rather than reactionary measures. As the situation develops, the hunger strike and its demands highlight the complex interplay between cultural norms, economic interests, and health policy in the evolving discourse on marijuana use in Thailand. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2024-07-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pheu Thai Party: Tensions Rise as Chalerm Yubamrung Challenges Expulsion Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In a provocative statement, Chalerm Yubamrung, a seasoned MP from the Pheu Thai Party, openly dared the party leadership to expel him. This escalation follows the recent resignation of his son, Wan Yubamrung, from a minor governmental role, signaling a growing rift within the political group. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332150-pheu-thai-party-tensions-rise-as-chalerm-yubamrung-challenges-expulsion/

In a provocative statement, Chalerm Yubamrung, a seasoned MP from the Pheu Thai Party, openly dared the party leadership to expel him. This escalation follows the recent resignation of his son, Wan Yubamrung, from a minor governmental role, signaling a growing rift within the political group. Chalerm expressed his dissatisfaction with the current party dynamics, directed towards the leadership of Thaksin Shinawatra, the de facto head of Pheu Thai. He pinpointed the departure of his son as a pivotal moment, marking his own alienation from the party's direction under Thaksin’s guidance. The tension specifically spiked after Wan Yubamrung voiced his support for Khamronwit Thoopkrachang, a political figure not aligned with Pheu Thai's strategy during the recent Pathum Thani provincial election. The public presence of Chalerm's son at Thoopkrachang's residence on the vote counting day drew internal criticism, notably from Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Thaksin’s daughter and a current Pheu Thai leader. This incident significantly strained relationships within the party, spotlighting the intricate dynamics and power plays at work, reported Thai Newsroom. Chalerm's rebellious stance has attracted the attention of other political camps, signaling potential shifts in alliances if he is indeed expelled. Legally, such an action would necessitate Chalerm to find a new party affiliation within 30 days to retain his MP status, adding procedural urgency to this political drama. Amidst these developments, the Pheu Thai Party faces internal scrutiny as it navigates leadership challenges and potential defections. The outcome of this confrontation could have broader implications for the party's structure and its strategic positioning in Thai politics. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-07-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 11 July 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1332149-thailand-live-thursday-11-july-2024/

Foreign man smashes car window and tries to assault Lao man Photo via Channel 3 A Laotian businessman demanded that a foreigner in the Isaan province of Udon Thani take responsibility for smashing his car window and attempting to punch him in the face. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332134-foreign-man-smashes-car-window-and-tries-to-assault-lao-man/

Thai MP aims to ‘stimulate’ economy with sex industry legalisation Photo by charlesdeluvio via Unsplash A Move Forward Party (MFP) MP today announced plans on social media to legalise professions related to the pornography and sex toy industries in Thailand by revising the Criminal Law of Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332109-thai-mp-aims-to-‘stimulate’-economy-with-sex-industry-legalisation/

Thai immigration officials apprehended the leader of a Russian gang involved in the production and distribution of counterfeit passports. The operation, which caused damages exceeding 30 million baht, had its manufacturing hub in the Dominican Republic before smuggling the fake documents into Thailand. Police arrest Russian gang leader for sale of counterfeit passports Image courtesy of KhaoSod Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332131-police-arrest-russian-gang-leader-for-sale-of-counterfeit-passports/

Thailand braces for heavy rain and storms, Bangkok on alert by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Thailand is bracing for heavy rainfall and thunderstorms, with particularly severe weather expected in Bangkok, the northeast, and the east. The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) has issued a warning today, July 10, advising caution amid forecasts of storms and heavy rain. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332026-thailand-braces-for-heavy-rain-and-storms-bangkok-on-alert/

Thailand is bracing for heavy rainfall and thunderstorms, with particularly severe weather expected in Bangkok, the northeast, and the east. The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) has issued a warning today, July 10, advising caution amid forecasts of storms and heavy rain. The TMD’s 24-hour forecast highlights that the southwest monsoon is currently covering the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the upper Gulf of Thailand. Additionally, the convergence of southwest and south winds is influencing the eastern regions and the Gulf of Thailand. This combination of weather patterns is expected to result in thunderstorms and heavy rainfall in various areas across the country. Residents of affected regions are urged to be mindful of the dangers posed by the heavy and accumulated rainfall. In the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, waves are reaching heights of around one metre. However, in areas experiencing thunderstorms, waves could exceed two metres. Boat operators are particularly advised to exercise extreme caution and avoid navigating in stormy conditions. Northern Thailand is forecasted to experience thunderstorms in 40% of the area, primarily affecting the provinces of Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Phayao, Phrae, Nan, Lamphun, Tak, Kamphaeng Phet, Sukhothai, Uttaradit, Phitsanulok, and Phetchabun. Temperatures in these regions will range from a low of 24 to 26 degrees Celcius (°C,) to a high of 33 to 36°C, with southwest winds ranging from 10 to 15 kilometres per hour (km/h). In the northeast, 70% of the area is expected to face thunderstorms and some heavy rain, particularly in the provinces of Loei, Bueng Kan, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Chaiyaphum, Nakhon Ratchasima, Yasothon, Buriram, and Ubon Ratchathani. The minimum temperature will be between 24 to 25°C, with a maximum of 32 to 34°C. The southwest winds in this region range from 10 to 20 km/h. Heavy rain Central Thailand will see thunderstorms covering 60% of the area, with heavy rains in some locations, especially in the provinces of Lopburi, Saraburi, Ayutthaya, Ratchaburi, Nakhon Pathom, Samut Songkhram, and Samut Sakhon. Temperatures will range from a minimum of 24 to 27°C to a maximum of 34 to 36°C, with southwest winds at 10 to 20 km/h. In the east, thunderstorms are predicted for 60% of the area, with heavy rain expected in Nakhon Nayok, Prachinburi, Chachoengsao, Chon Buri, Chanthaburi, and Trat. The temperature will range from 24 to 28°C at the lowest to 32 to 35°C at the highest. Southwest winds range from 15 to 30 km/h. The sea in this region will have waves around 1 metre high, but in stormy areas, waves could exceed 2 metres. Southern Thailand (east coast) will also experience thunderstorms in 60% of the area, with heavy rain in some places, particularly in the provinces of Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. The temperature will vary from a low of 23 to 26°C to a high of 32 to 35°C. Southwest winds range from 15 to 30 km/h, and the sea will have waves around 1 metre high, with stormy areas seeing waves exceeding 2 metres. On the west coast of southern Thailand, 40% of the area will experience thunderstorms, mainly affecting the provinces of Ranong, Phang Nga, Krabi, Trang, and Satun. The temperatures here will range from 24 to 26°C at the lowest to 32 to 34°C at the highest. Southwest winds will blow at speeds of 15 to 30 km/h, and the sea will have waves around 1 metre high, with waves exceeding 2 metres in stormy areas. In Bangkok and its vicinity, thunderstorms are expected in 60% of the area, with some heavy rain. The temperature will range from a minimum of 26 to 28°C to a maximum of 33 to 35°C. Southwest winds range from 10 to 20 km/h. The public is advised to stay updated on the latest weather forecasts and take necessary precautions to ensure safety amid these weather conditions. by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

British yoga teacher stranded in Bangkok airport over passport tear by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Kennedy News and Media A British yoga teacher was stranded at Suvarnabhumi Airport after being barred from boarding her flight home due to a slight tear in her passport. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331983-british-yoga-teacher-stranded-in-bangkok-airport-over-passport-tear/

A British yoga teacher was stranded at Suvarnabhumi Airport after being barred from boarding her flight home due to a slight tear in her passport. The British woman, 27 year old Rosie Viscomi, had planned to fly back to London from Bangkok last Thursday, July 4. However, she was prevented from boarding her £370 (approximately 17,000 baht) multi-stop flight, which included stops in India and Turkey, after airline officials objected to a 1-centimetre rip on the photo page of her passport. This unfortunate turn of events left Rosie crying at Suvarnabhumi Airport as IndiGo Airlines staff refused her passage. The dance and yoga teacher from Norfolk had been on the Thai island of Koh Pha Ngan since April, after completing her yoga qualification in India. During her stay, she engaged in voluntary work and deepened her yoga knowledge before deciding to return home. Despite having reportedly extended her visa just days prior, Viscomi was informed at the airport that her visa had expired, rendering her stay illegal. Frantic and fearing arrest, the British traveller spent the last few days liaising with Thai immigration and the British Embassy to arrange her safe return, which has already cost her hundreds of pounds. “When I went for my flight on Thursday, they said ‘You’re not going anywhere with that,’ referring to a small rip in my passport. “They told me India won’t let me in and I need to book a direct flight from Bangkok to London. I missed my £370 flight and had to apply for emergency documents. I don’t have any money left.” Viscomi, who had previously travelled to America and Jamaica without issues, was shocked by the sudden enforcement. “I didn’t know if they were going to arrest me because I didn’t have the correct stamp. I was at immigration just crying, and everyone kept saying there was nothing they could do. I thought I had all the right visa documents. I just want to go home.” The yoga teacher’s family has stepped in to help with the financial burden. Viscomi’s sister has set up a fundraising page, which has raised £280 of the £1,000 target so far. Meanwhile, Viscomi has managed to secure a new flight and emergency travel documents, hoping to return to England on July 9. IndiGo Airlines has been contacted for comment, reported The Mirror UK. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Kennedy News and Media Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Added To Human Rights Watchlist By International NGO by TNR Staff Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin.. Picture: Thai Rath AN INTERNATIONAL non-profit organisation has added Thailand to its watchlist of countries experiencing rapid declines in civic freedoms on alleged grounds of targeting of activists, critics and the opposition by the government of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331981-thailand-added-to-human-rights-watchlist-by-international-ngo/

AN INTERNATIONAL non-profit organisation has added Thailand to its watchlist of countries experiencing rapid declines in civic freedoms on alleged grounds of targeting of activists, critics and the opposition by the government of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. Thailand is now among 50 countries rated “Repressed” by Civitus Monitor. This rating is typically given to countries where civic space is heavily contested by power holders, who impose a combination of legal and practical constraints on the full enjoyment of fundamental rights. Civitus Monitor, a global alliance dedicated to strengthening citizen action and civil society around the world founded in 1993 with 8,500 members in more than 175 countries today, said in recent months, the government has continued to use the lese majeste law, or Section 112 of the Criminal Code, to arrest and convict activists, critics and politicians. “Courts routinely deny bail to individuals charged or impose strict conditions in cases where bail is granted. According to Thai Lawyers for Human Rights (TLHR), since early 2020, more than 270 people have been charged with violating the law and at least 17 are being held in pre-trial detention,” Civitus said. by TNR Staff TOP: Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin.. Picture: Thai Rath Full story: THAI NEWSROOM 2024-07-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

'X/Twitter Star' Arrested for Public Indecency, Earns Over 1 Million Baht Picture courtesy: CH7 news The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) arrested a popular X/Twitter star with hundreds of thousands of followers for taking provocative photos in public over four months, earning more than 1 million baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331978-xtwitter-star-arrested-for-public-indecency-earns-over-1-million-baht/

The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) arrested a popular X/Twitter star with hundreds of thousands of followers for taking provocative photos in public over four months, earning more than 1 million baht. The Technology Crime Suppression Division (TCSD) and a search team targeted 24-year-old Ms. Kanokorn, following a Criminal Court warrant (No. 669/2567 dated July 8, 2567). She was charged with “distributing obscene media and disseminating or forwarding computer data that is obscene and accessible to the public” under Section 287(1) of the Criminal Code and Sections 14(4)(5) of the Computer-Related Crime Act B.E. 2550 (2007). Evidence seized included: A mobile phone Four sets of clothing used to film obscene content The search was conducted at a residence in Soi Lat Phrao 101, Khlong Chan Subdistrict, Bang Kapi District, Bangkok. The investigation began after police noticed trending social media news about obscene content posted by a famous X/Twitter account with over 100,000 followers. The content, filmed in convenience stores and parking lots of shopping malls, was used to attract followers and sell memberships. Ms. Kanokorn admitted to owning the account and creating the provocative content. She confirmed that the clip filmed in a convenience store in Soi Lat Phrao 101 was made in early April 2024 but has since been deleted. Another clip showing undressing in a parking lot was filmed at a famous shopping mall in Bang Kapi between April and May 2024. Memberships have been sold since March 2024, with total earnings reaching approximately 1 million baht. Picture courtesy: CH7 news -- 2024-07-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Debate Ramps Up: Is the Thai Senate Still Necessary? Move Forward spokesperson/MP Parit Wacharasindhu. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In the heart of Thailand's democratic process, a contentious debate is now unfolding, spearheaded by the Move Forward Party. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331976-debate-ramps-up-is-the-thai-senate-still-necessary/