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Thailand gears up for digital wallet launch: 10,000 Baht Payout Per Citizen Picture courtesy: Thai Government PR Department Thailand is preparing to launch an innovative digital wallet initiative, sponsored by the government, that aims to distribute 10,000 baht to every citizen. This move is part of a wider effort to stimulate economic growth by encouraging consumer spending within local markets. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331865-thailand-gears-up-for-digital-wallet-launch-10000-baht-payout-per-citizen/

Thailand is preparing to launch an innovative digital wallet initiative, sponsored by the government, that aims to distribute 10,000 baht to every citizen. This move is part of a wider effort to stimulate economic growth by encouraging consumer spending within local markets. Deputy Finance Minister Paopum Rojanasakul recently clarified details of the project timeline and addressed opposition concerns regarding potential misuse of funds and procedural delays. Rojanasakul confirmed that both planning and legal preparations are advancing without delay, with key meetings including a policy committee on July 15, and a crucial Cabinet session scheduled for July 30. The digital wallet is designed to enable direct payments to citizens, circumventing conventional banking methods to ignite immediate economic activity. This is particularly crucial as Thailand looks to counter economic repercussions from global uncertainties. The Deputy Minister highlighted the implementation of strict legal frameworks to guarantee that funds align with the project's goals, focusing on eligible goods while excluding items like mobile phones and other electronics to prevent foreign capital flight. Rojanasakul also mentioned having backup plans should legal issues arise, ensuring the government is ready to adapt and maintain the planned schedule. He reassured the public that registrations for the digital wallet will start in the third quarter, with the rollout of funds projected for the fourth quarter. Additionally, preliminary estimates from the World Bank suggest that the initiative could help increase GDP by 0.5% to 1%, though actual impact will depend on several factors including the list of restricted items and the scheme's reception among the populace. With the possibility of the Bank of Thailand adjusting interest rates in response to economic fluctuations caused by the project, Rojanasakul urged a comprehensive and cautious evaluation of these fiscal and monetary policies. This initiative marks Thailand's strategic use of digital technology to propel its economy forward and deliver direct financial support to its citizens, setting a pioneering example in government-led digital financial solutions. Picture courtesy: Thai Government PR Department -- 2024-07-09 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Uncertainty Surrounds Approval of Thailand's Submarine Deal Picture courtesy: Khaosod The future of Thailand's controversial submarine acquisition from China remains uncertain, as expressed by Defence Minister Suthin Khlangsang today. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331864-uncertainty-surrounds-approval-of-thailands-submarine-deal/

The future of Thailand's controversial submarine acquisition from China remains uncertain, as expressed by Defence Minister Suthin Khlangsang today. The deal, heavily scrutinized both domestically and internationally, involves the purchase of a Yuan-class S26T submarine worth 12.4 billion baht (approximately £280 million). Speaking in Bangkok, Minister Suthin highlighted that the cabinet's decision hinges on thorough legal reviews surrounding significant changes to the planned submarine specifications, including a switch in the engine model and an extended construction period. The original contract stipulated a German-made engine, but revisions have proposed a substitution with a Chinese-made counterpart, coupled with a longer timeframe for delivering the vessel. This pivotal decision rests with a legal team overseen by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and the Council of State. Emphasizing the government's cautious approach, Suthin explained that all legalities must be clearly resolved to ensure transparency and public confidence. Naval officials, including the current navy chief, Adm. Adung Pan-iam, await the cabinet's verdict with bated breath, as retirement looms for some involved in the initial stages of the agreement. The deal has its roots in the tenure of former Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha and former navy chief Ruechai Ruddit, who both pushed the purchase through just before their respective retirements in 2020. To date, Thailand has paid approximately half of the total cost, with around 5.5 billion baht outstanding. The acquisition, if finalized, would be Thailand’s first submarine procurement in over sixty years, marking a significant milestone in the country's naval modernization efforts. However, the myriad legal and procedural hurdles suggest that a final decision may still be some time away. Picture courtesy: Khaosod -- 2024-07-09 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Monks and Abbot Disrobed After Drug Scandal Rocks Phetchabun Temple Picture courtesy: Channel 3Plus A shocking revelation came to light at Wat Pa Sap Warin in Phetchabun Province when four monks, including the acting abbot, tested positive for illicit drugs, leading to their immediate disrobing. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331861-monks-and-abbot-disrobed-after-drug-scandal-rocks-phetchabun-temple/

A shocking revelation came to light at Wat Pa Sap Warin in Phetchabun Province when four monks, including the acting abbot, tested positive for illicit drugs, leading to their immediate disrobing. This incident underpins growing concerns about drug infiltration in unexpected realms of society, even among supposedly sacred orders. On the morning following a distressing murder incident involving Phra Panthawat Thawongklang, a young monk at the temple, local authorities conducted drug tests as part of their investigation. The homicide seemed to hint at deeper issues within the temple grounds, prompting law enforcement to widen their scope of scrutiny. All four monks tested - aged between 25 to 44 - inexplicably failed their drug tests, showing traces of narcotics. Under the supervision of Mr. Sompong Mahawang, the District Chief, the collective local government and law enforcement team arrived at the temple to execute these tests. The discovery of drug paraphernalia during preliminary searches further validated the decision to test the monks, a decision that culminated in a disheartening revelation for the local community. The monks were subsequently stripped of their religious status and are now subject to rehabilitation protocols at a local health center. The temple, once a pillar of the community, now faces the monumental task of restoring trust and sanctity amid these scandalous developments. The broader implications of these events for the temple’s reputation and the moral standing of monastic communities in the region are profound. It underscores a pressing need for stringent oversight and preventive measures within religious institutions to stem such violations that threaten their integrity and societal roles. Picture courtesy: Channel 3Plus -- 2024-07-09 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Govt has Plan B if it fails to borrow from BAAC to fund digital wallet – Paopoom The government has plans B and C prepared, in case it cannot borrow 172.3 billion baht needed to fund the digital wallet scheme from the Bank of Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives (BACC), Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul told the media today. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331860-govt-has-plan-b-if-it-fails-to-borrow-from-baac-to-fund-digital-wallet-–-paopoom/

The government has plans B and C prepared, in case it cannot borrow 172.3 billion baht needed to fund the digital wallet scheme from the Bank of Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives (BACC), Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul told the media today. He admitted that the Finance Ministry has not yet sought a ruling from the Council of State as to whether the granting the loan by the BAAC goes against the objectives of the bank, because the ministry is yet to compile all the relevant details about the scheme for sending to the Council of State. He said that the controversial scheme is, however, proceeding in accordance with the timeline, adding that the digital wallet subcommittee will meet this Wednesday to sum up all the relevant conditions. Full story: Thai PBS 2024-07-09 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Blaze Claims Lives of 21 Cats in Don Mueang Fire Picture courtesy: Facebook JS100 RADIO In what turned into a devastating night in Bangkok's Don Mueang district, 21 cats died in a fire that engulfed a terraced house. The incident occurred late last night, bringing a sorrowful tone to what is normally a peaceful residential area. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331859-blaze-claims-lives-of-21-cats-in-don-mueang-fire/

In what turned into a devastating night in Bangkok's Don Mueang district, 21 cats died in a fire that engulfed a terraced house. The incident occurred late last night, bringing a sorrowful tone to what is normally a peaceful residential area. Upon arrival, firefighters swiftly managed to control and extinguish the blaze within about ten minutes, preventing it from spreading to neighboring homes. However, despite their efforts, the fire ravaged the ground floor where the cats were located. Tragically, they could not save the animals, all of which succumbed to injuries related to the fire. In their rescue efforts, emergency teams discovered five additional cats suffering from severe smoke inhalation. These survivors were promptly treated on-site before being transported to a nearby animal hospital for further care. The owner of the house, a 56-year-old woman known in the community for her kindness to stray animals, was not present during the inferno. She mentioned to the police that she had temporarily stepped out for errands and had securely locked her home, unaware of the impending disaster. Devastated, she returned to find her house damaged and many of her rescued cats deceased. Preliminary investigations by the authorities suggest an electrical short circuit as the likely cause of the blaze. The community has rallied around the woman, providing support amidst the loss of her pets, whom she considered family. As the investigation continues, this event serves as a stark reminder of fire safety, particularly concerning the welfare of animals within residential settings. Picture courtesy: Facebook JS100 RADIO -- 2024-07-09 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Tuesday 9 July 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331857-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-tuesday-9-july-2024/

The government is being urged to form a committee to study the impacts of Cannabis use before relisting it as a narcotic. The Writing Thai Cannabis' Future group protested near Government House, advocating for a study on its physical, mental, societal, and therapeutic effects compared to tobacco and alcohol. If the study shows cannabis is no more harmful than tobacco or alcohol, they propose a special law to regulate its use. Last week, a ministry of Health committee voted to support reclassifying cannabis and hemp as narcotics. A round 100 Park rangers, soldiers, police and volunteers have joined forces to search for a 27 year old tourist missing in a National Park in Uttaradit central Thailand since last Thursday. Yesterday searchers found a backpack and shoes on a steep path, the search continues. New Consumer protection laws for online shoppers come into effect from October 3rd. The aim is to address online fraud. Consumers will be able to inspect goods before payment for cash-on-delivery purchases. detailed receipts must be provided, Consumers will have the right to refuse goods or claim refunds. Businesses have been given 90-days to prepare for the new regulations.. A new State-run bus service will launch to feed three major airports, Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang and Phuket. The so-called feeder buses will likely start before the end of the year and will serve mainly large cities and tourism hotspots, including Pattaya, Chanthaburi, Trat, Nakhon Ratchasima and Hua Hin Around the region. South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol said he would discuss with NATO leaders the distinct threat North Korea poses to Europe by deepening military ties with Russia, warning that Moscow must choose between the two Koreas where its true interests lie. Yoon added that Seoul would make a decision on weapons support for Ukraine based on how a new military pact between Moscow and Pyongyang plays out. Todays’ WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: Cloudy with thunder showers 34C degrees celsius Bangkok: thundershowers 33 Pattaya: Cloudy with thunder showers 3 Phuket and the south: showers 30 Hua Hin: Bright Cloudy, any showers may occur this afternoon, 31 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 2024-07-09 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Move Forward Expected to Win Next Year's PAO Elections File photo courtesy: Wikipedia In a striking shift in electoral prospects, the Move Forward Party is now positioned as the leading contender for the upcoming Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO) elections, slated for February next year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331850-move-forward-expected-to-win-next-years-pao-elections/

In a striking shift in electoral prospects, the Move Forward Party is now positioned as the leading contender for the upcoming Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO) elections, slated for February next year. This forecast is supported by a recent in-depth poll conducted by Rangsit University, revealing a substantial lead over traditional political powerhouses. The survey, involving over 4,000 participants from 47 provinces, indicates that a significant 58.77% of respondents are leaning towards the Move Forward Party. Such numbers suggest a potential landslide in their favor, starkly overshadowing competitors like Pheu Thai and Bhumjaithai, who garnered only 13.59% and 2.65% respectively. This potential political upheaval underscores a growing public sentiment for change, moving away from the entangled politics of influential family dynasties which have long dominated the PAO landscape. Move Forward's appeal appears robust across various regions, with an overwhelming majority in areas such as Bangkok and the central region, and significant leads elsewhere. Conversely, traditional political stalwarts like the Democrat and Palang Pracharath parties are trailing significantly, reflecting perhaps a broader desire amongst the electorate for fresh governance approaches and policy innovations. With election day approaching, these poll numbers not only highlight an evolving political narrative but also underscore the dynamic nature of voter preferences, signaling potentially transformative shifts in Thailand’s local governance structures. As the date draws nearer, it will be intriguing to see how political strategies adapt in response to this surprising electoral development. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-07-09 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Daring Daylight Heist: Over 50 Baht of Gold Stolen in Minutes Picture courtesy: TNA-MCOT In a brazen daylight robbery, a lone suspect targeted a bustling shopping mall in Chiang Mai, absconding with more than 50 baht weight of gold, worth nearly two million baht, from a busy gold shop. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331849-daring-daylight-heist-over-50-baht-of-gold-stolen-in-minutes/

In a brazen daylight robbery, a lone suspect targeted a bustling shopping mall in Chiang Mai, absconding with more than 50 baht weight of gold, worth nearly two million baht, from a busy gold shop. The incident, which unfolded swiftly at about 11:40 AM, saw a tall, lean male dressed in a black long-sleeve shirt and mask skillfully evade security measures at a popular shopping center. The suspect blitzed the store, quickly accumulating a substantial haul primarily consisting of 10-baht weight gold necklaces, escaping within a remarkable 1 minute and 40 seconds, leaving staff and shoppers in shock. Authorities, spearheaded by Pol. Maj. Gen. Weerachon Boontawee and Pol. Maj. Gen. Tawatchai Pongvivattanachai, were promptly at the scene, sifting through CCTV footage that captured the dramatic heist, reported TNA-MCOT. Investigators believe the theft was elaborately planned, evidenced by the precise nature and rapid execution of the robbery. They stressed that the suspect had likely surveyed the mall multiple times before hitting the gold shop. The ongoing investigation focuses on tracking the white sedan used as the getaway car, last seen heading towards the Chiang Mai-Lampang roadway. Authorities are appealing to the public for any information that could lead to the swift capture of the suspect. Picture courtesy: TNA-MCOT -- 2024-07-09 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Russian Man Arrested with 300,000 Baht in Fake Euros in Pattaya Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Pattaya Immigration Police arrested a Russian man who is a member of an international counterfeit money gang, seizing fake euros worth nearly 300,000 baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331848-russian-man-arrested-with-300000-baht-in-fake-euros-in-pattaya/

Pattaya Immigration Police arrested a Russian man who is a member of an international counterfeit money gang, seizing fake euros worth nearly 300,000 baht. The suspect claimed the fake money was made by a Turkish friend who had successfully used it in Thailand before. At noon on July 8, Police Colonel Napaspong Khositsuriyamanee and Police Lieutenant Colonel Wirachai Thinkamut led a team to arrest Mr. Abdulkhakim Khasanov, a 29-year-old Russian, in his hotel room in South Pattaya, Chonburi. They seized 140 fake 50-euro banknotes, totaling 7,000 euros or approximately 280,000 baht. The investigation began when Chonburi Immigration Police were informed by a foreign currency exchange booth that a foreigner had tricked a Thai person into exchanging 500 euros for 20,000 baht. The money was traced back to this foreigner, leading to the arrest, reported Thai Rath. Mr. Tom (an alias), a 41-year-old Thai man deceived by the foreigner, revealed that the Russian had asked him to exchange the money to pay for a hotel bill. Unaware that the money was fake, Mr. Tom successfully exchanged it for about 20,000 baht and gave it to the Russian. Later, the currency exchange booth questioned Mr. Tom, leading to the Russian's arrest. Mr. Tom cooperated with the police and warned the public to be cautious of foreigners' behavior. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Police Colonel Napaspong Khositsuriyamanee stated that initial investigations revealed Mr. Abdulkhakim Khasanov had arrived in Thailand on May 29 and was scheduled to leave on July 9. The counterfeit euros were produced in Turkey by his friend, who claimed to have successfully exchanged fake euros worth over 400,000 baht in Thailand before. The Russian suspect intended to use the 7,000 euros in Thailand and share the proceeds with his Turkish friend. However, his attempts to exchange the money at a bank in a shopping mall failed, leading him to deceive a Thai person, which eventually resulted in his arrest. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-07-09 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Muay Thai legend Buakaw loses to Bulgarian in K-1 World MAX 2024 finals Thailand’s best-known Muay Thai boxer, Buakaw Banchamek, was defeated by Bulgarian Stoyan Koprivlenski in a three-round bout at the K-1 World MAX Championship, held in the Yoyoi 2nd gymnasium in Tokyo on Sunday night. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331846-muay-thai-legend-buakaw-loses-to-bulgarian-in-k-1-world-max-2024-finals/

Thailand’s best-known Muay Thai boxer, Buakaw Banchamek, was defeated by Bulgarian Stoyan Koprivlenski in a three-round bout at the K-1 World MAX Championship, held in the Yoyoi 2nd gymnasium in Tokyo on Sunday night. Last night’s fight was Buakaw’s attempt, at the age of 42, to return to K-1 World MAX, in the under 70kg weight category, since he won the championship in 2004 and 2006. Last night’s bout was in the first round of the eight fighters’ marathon tournament. The winners of the first round proceed to the semi-final, after which the two finalists meet to decide the championship. The rules forbid the use of elbow and knee jabs while pulling the body of the opponent. During the second round, Buakaw took a kick to his chin, forcing him to pause momentarily. This prompted the referee to give an eight count. Full story: Thai PBS 2024-07-09 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Tuesday 9 July 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1331845-thailand-live-tuesday-9-july-2024/

Minister Supamas Acts Swiftly Amid University Degree-Buying Scandal File photo In an effort to maintain academic respectability, Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Minister, Supamas Isarabhakdi, pledged to take immediate action over accusations of a private university purportedly trading degrees to rich students without requiring them to attend classes. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331826-minister-supamas-acts-swiftly-amid-university-degree-buying-scandal/

Krungthai Bank has advised iPhone users to activate lockdown mode to protect against dangerous links used by scammers to install money-stealing applications. The bank issued this advice via its Krungthai Care Facebook page, highlighting the increasing threat from cybercriminals. Krungthai Bank urges iPhone users to enable lockdown mode Picture courtesy of PhotoMIX Company from pexels.com Full tory: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331823-krungthai-bank-urges-iphone-users-to-enable-lockdown-mode/

Chinese couple remains at large after public sex show in Thailand by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ เชียงมั๊ย เชียงใหม่ Police are searching for a Chinese couple after they were caught having sex in public in a university car park in the city centre of the northern province of Chiang Mai. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331789-chinese-couple-remains-at-large-after-public-sex-show-in-thailand/

Police are searching for a Chinese couple after they were caught having sex in public in a university car park in the city centre of the northern province of Chiang Mai. Photos of the naked Chinese couple were shared in a local Facebook group in Chiang Mai yesterday, July 7. The photos showed two Thai police officers intervening in the foreign couple’s sexual activity. Officers reportedly asked them to put on their clothes and then took them to the hospital on Thursday, July 4. A female vendor selling food near the scene gave an interview to Channel 7 about the incident, stating that it took place at about 5pm. The couple ordered food from her restaurant and ate together under a tree in the car park. The vendor said she did not know what had happened but the Chinese woman began to take off the man’s clothes, leaving only his shorts. Then, she asked the Chinese man to lie on the ground before climbing on top of him. People and motorists were shocked by their actions and called the police to the scene. The Investigative Inspector of the Tourist Police Sub-Division 2, Police Lieutenant Colonel Awirut Sookyam, told the media that the Chinese couple confessed to using cannabis before drinking beer together. Police suspected that the combination of alcohol and ganja affected them. According to Awirut, the two were admitted to Maharaj Nakorn Chiang Mai Hospital. They have since left the hospital but have not yet returned to their home country. Officers are searching for the couple for further legal proceedings regarding their explicit acts. The university boarding management team did not take any legal action against the Chinese couple but police officers are determined to legally punish them for public obscenity. In a similar incident, a Thai homeless couple was arrested for public sex in the Isaan province of Khon Kaen in May. The homeless man admitted to the act and emphasised that being homeless, he had no choice but to have sex in public. Another foreign couple was charged with engaging in sexual activity in the sea at Patong Beach in Phuket in April. No legal charges were issued against them or other foreign couples involved in previous incidents in Phuket. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ เชียงมั๊ย เชียงใหม่ Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe