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A British teacher in Phuket has initiated legal action after being assaulted by a well-known local tailor in front of her children. The incident unfolded in the Cheng Lay area, sparking concerns over how altercations are handled by local authorities. Ms. Inder, a teacher at an international school in Phuket, recounted her distressing experience on the popular Phuket Hot Page. She detailed how an argument over tailoring prices escalated into violence. According to Ms. Inder, the disagreement began when she visited a tailoring shop to discuss a dress alteration. The negotiation turned heated, and the shop owner, angered by her insistence, allegedly slapped her, causing her to fall while her children watched in horror. Following the assault, Ms. Inder promptly reported the incident to the Cheng Talay Police Station. However, she was disheartened when the police initially suggested a settlement between her and the tailor, an option she outrightly rejected. She expressed her confusion and dissatisfaction, insisting on taking the matter through the full legal process to ensure accountability. On July 2, 2014, Pol. Lt. Kittipong Noo Peng, the investigating officer at Cheng Talay Police Station, confirmed the complaint and described the altercation's background. "The disagreement over the tailoring price led to an unfortunate escalation," he noted, adding that the incident had evidently shaken Ms. Inder, especially given that it occurred in front of her children. The accused tailor, currently identified only as a man, remains uncommunicative. He has informed the authorities through intermediaries that he will present himself for questioning on July 4, 2024, as he is currently out of the province. The police have assured that the matter will follow the legal process to its conclusion. The episode has prompted a dialogue about the treatment of foreign residents in Phuket and how disputes involving them are resolved, with many calling for more stringent enforcement of the law to protect expatriates and tourists alike. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-07-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Missing Young Canadian Man Found Drowned at Phang Nga Beach By Goongnang Suksawat Phang Nga – A Canadian man who had been reported missing on Sunday (June 30th) was tragically found dead at a beach in the Takua Thung district on Monday (July 1st). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331344-missing-young-canadian-man-found-drowned-at-phang-nga-beach/

Phang Nga – A Canadian man who had been reported missing on Sunday (June 30th) was tragically found dead at a beach in the Takua Thung district on Monday (July 1st). The Khok Kloi Police told the Phuket Express that on Sunday (June 30th) in the afternoon, they were notified of the missing man from a friend identified only as MR. Michael, 58, an American national. He stayed at a villa at the Na Tai Beach in the Khok Kloi sub-district with MR. Christopher, 20, the missing Canadian national and three other people. On Sunday morning despite a full search Mr. Michael and his friends did not find MR. Christopher at the villa. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-07-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Wednesday 3 July 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331343-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-wednesday-3-july-2024/

An academic in Yala has criticized the slow progress of peace talks in the deep South after a car bomb outside police flats last Sunday killed a woman and injured 16. He stressed that such incidents should never happen and called for stronger efforts to prevent further losses. Mr. Tayudin noted that the peace dialogue panel, established to resolve the conflict in the troubled region, has made no significant progress in maintaining peace. A giant crane collapsed at a construction site east of Bangkok yesterday, killing two and injuring seven. The crane fell on a cement mixer truck and a one-story office building at a waste disposal plant site. The injuries occurred as seven workers were struck by glass and debris. The government will launch a "Thailand Zero Dropout" initiative to bring over 1 million out-of-school children back to formal education. The plan includes creating a student database, providing tailored curriculums, and encouraging students to return. The private sector will be asked to offer scholarships, and a new app will launch later this month to support the effort. The government has promised to consider lifting the afternoon ban on the sale of alcohol with the aim to help restaurant operators who say the poor economy is hurting their business. The Restaurant business club suggested reducing building and land tax rates. They claim operating costs and the price of ingredients continues to rise which has forced many businesses to close Bangkok's local authorities says its target of planting 1 million trees has been reached earlier than expected, the council announced it would mark it’s achievement by planting another million trees. Around the region. Indonesia’s Ministry of Communication has repeatedly apologized for last month's ransomware attack, which disrupted government services and drew public criticism. While immigration and passport services have resumed, only five of over 200 affected agencies have had their databases restored. The database of some 800,000 prospective university students has been permanently lost due to inadequate backups. Todays’ WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: Cloudy with thunder showers 33C degrees celsius Bangkok: cloudy 34 Pattaya: Cloudy with thunder showers 32 Phuket and the south: Cloudy with showers 31 Hua Hin: Bright but cloudy Cloudy with isolated showers late afternoon or early evening, 33 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, The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Windy.com. Wunderground.com -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-07-03 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Monk Defrocked for Late-Night Van Ride at Na Jomtien Beach Picture courtesy: MGR online A Buddhist monk was defrocked after being caught by concerned residents driving around in a van and enjoying seaside views at Sattahip’s Na Jomtien Beach early Tuesday morning, July 2nd, 2024. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331341-monk-defrocked-for-late-night-van-ride-at-na-jomtien-beach/

A Buddhist monk was defrocked after being caught by concerned residents driving around in a van and enjoying seaside views at Sattahip’s Na Jomtien Beach early Tuesday morning, July 2nd, 2024. At 12:10 AM today, Mr. Udom Suwankana, the head of Na Jomtien Village 1, along with his assistants, inspected the Na Jomtien Beach area in front of the Khao Tom Setthi restaurant in response to reports from residents who had seen a monk driving an old yellow Isuzu van. The residents questioned whether the man was genuinely a monk and if his behavior was appropriate. At the beach, authorities found the monk, identified as 76-year-old Luang Ta Noo Thi Thinrat, sitting in the driver’s seat in orange monk attire. However, he could not produce his current monk certificate when asked and only had an old one issued in 1991 from Wat Jomsri in Udon Thani province. Picture courtesy Daily News via Line Inside the van, authorities found alms food scattered around, some already rotten, a pile of excrement, and several casual clothes, which he claimed belonged to his disabled son. Luang Ta Noo Thi claimed to authorities that he had driven from his residence in Nakhon Ratchasima province to Sattahip to take his disabled son (not present at the scene) to the beach. He argued that no police officers had questioned him at checkpoints, as they knew him well. He stated that he was ordained because he was too old to do anything else. Now that he had been defrocked, he was unsure what to do next and planned to drive back to his hometown. Authorities concluded that although driving is not a serious offense for a monk, the Supreme Sangha Council has prohibited monks from driving cars. They added that Luang Ta Noo Thi’s claim of driving to enjoy the beach at night also damaged the image of Buddhist monks. Moreover, he had no clear affiliation with any temple and lacked a current monk certificate. Therefore, the monks accompanying the authorities decided to defrock Luang Ta Noo Thi before allowing him to drive back home. According to local media reports, Luang Ta Noo Thi had been previously accused of using animals, such as dogs, goats, and donkeys, to pull carts to solicit alms. This action resulted in him facing multiple charges of animal cruelty and eventually being disrobed previously. TOP Picture courtesy: MGR online -- 2024-07-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Bill Proposed to Curb Child Obesity by Regulating AI-Driven Junk Food Ads File photo courtesy: Wikipedia A new bill designed to curb child obesity by safeguarding children from modern AI-driven marketing tactics that encourage unhealthy eating habits is set to be presented to legislators. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331339-bill-proposed-to-curb-child-obesity-by-regulating-ai-driven-junk-food-ads/

A new bill designed to curb child obesity by safeguarding children from modern AI-driven marketing tactics that encourage unhealthy eating habits is set to be presented to legislators. The Deputy Director-General of the Department of Health, Pongpol Vorapani, spoke during the final public hearing of the bill, noting that the high rate of obesity among Thai children, which has more than doubled over the past two decades, is primarily linked to the overconsumption of unhealthy foods. The Food and Non-alcoholic Beverages Marketing Control Bill aims to raise awareness among children and their parents about modern marketing tactics that cleverly utilise AI to increase children’s exposure to advertisements that heighten their cravings for unhealthy snacks and drinks. The Health Department considers obesity and other non-communicable diseases to pose a significant health threat to young Thais and to be a leading cause of premature death. "The rate of obesity has largely stemmed from unhealthy dietary choices, including eating too much sweet, fatty, and salty food, and drinking sweetened beverages such as sodas and carbonated fizzy drinks," said Vorapani. Marketing strategies employed by producers of these products significantly influence youngsters to make poor dietary choices, he added. A lecturer at the Institute for Population and Social Research, Mahidol University, Nongnuch Jindarattanaporn, highlighted that more than 50% of Thai children are exposed to these marketing tactics. She cited examples such as crunchy snacks packaged with famous cartoon characters and fizzy drinks promoted by celebrities or social media influencers. Social media platforms like YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and X are the top choices for attracting young people’s attention to junk food, said Nongnuch. "These marketing strategies have raised the target age groups’ cravings for these products by about 45%," she noted. As the bill moves forward, it seeks to implement stricter regulations on how junk food is marketed to the youth, particularly on digital platforms. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-07-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Senator Ratifications Delayed Amidst Vote-Rigging Allegations Picture courtesy: Thai Rath The official ratification of all 200 senators-designate, initially scheduled for tomorrow, is expected to be postponed amid serious allegations of vote-rigging and other electoral irregularities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331338-senator-ratifications-delayed-amidst-vote-rigging-allegations/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath The official ratification of all 200 senators-designate, initially scheduled for tomorrow, is expected to be postponed amid serious allegations of vote-rigging and other electoral irregularities. Thailand's Election Commission is facing considerable pressure to delay confirming the 200 main senators and an additional 100 reserves. The move comes after numerous complaints were filed by defeated candidates, alleging bloc-vote rigging and false declarations of professions by certain winning candidates. These claims have led to calls for thorough, evidence-based investigations, a process likely to extend over a significant period. A key insider from the Election Commission, speaking on condition of anonymity, suggested that the scrutiny required for a fair investigation into these allegations will be time-consuming. Many of the victorious candidates are accused of having clandestine ties with the Bhumjaithai party, allegedly orchestrated through intermediaries who distributed lists of preferred candidates during secret meetings at nearby hotels. These meetings took place near the Muang Thong Thani trade exhibition and convention centre, the venue for the national stage of the election. Accusations also include candidates falsifying career information to position themselves as "puppet" contestants, receiving financial incentives for their participation. This senatorial election is unprecedented in its complexity. Candidates received votes from their peers within the electoral pool rather than from a general electorate. Although the Election Commission had previously stated the ratification could proceed as early as tomorrow, it's now highly likely the process will be delayed. The Commission has a legal timeframe of one year to complete its investigations into the alleged electoral misconduct. This retroactive measure allows the body to nullify the status of any senators found guilty of election law violations, ensuring only validly elected individuals serve in the legislature. -- 2024-07-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Navy Chief Alarmed by Government's Delay on Chinese Submarine Picture courtesy: CHINA DAILY Admiral Adung Pan-iam, Navy Chief, has voiced concerns over the Pheu Thai-led government's delay in approving the navy's plan to purchase a Chinese-built submarine. This issue is creating a stir in military and political circles, highlighting the complexities surrounding defence procurement. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331337-navy-chief-alarmed-by-governments-delay-on-chinese-submarine/

Admiral Adung Pan-iam, Navy Chief, has voiced concerns over the Pheu Thai-led government's delay in approving the navy's plan to purchase a Chinese-built submarine. This issue is creating a stir in military and political circles, highlighting the complexities surrounding defence procurement. The initial contract was for a Yuan-class S26T submarine equipped with a German MTU396 engine. However, complications arose when the navy proposed substituting it with a Chinese-made CHD620 engine, which has yet to be used in submarines anywhere, including in China's own fleet. This alteration has put the deal, valued at 12.4 billion baht (£282 million), in limbo. A substantial part of the payment, around 7 billion baht (£159 million), has already been made, further complicating the situation. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has expressed legal concerns over the engine swap. This has delayed the final cabinet approval, causing tension among naval commanders, especially for Admiral Adung, who is set to retire at the end of September. He is eager for the purchase to be finalised before his departure. Pheu Thai’s Defence Minister, Suthin Khlangsang, suggested buying a frigate instead of the problematic submarine. However, top navy officials are adamant about getting the submarine, citing operational needs and prior commitments. The decision to choose the S26T submarine over other options, such as secondhand German or Swedish submarines, was initially sanctioned by a previous military-led government shortly before the retirement of former Navy Chief Luechai Ruddit in 2020. Ruddit had pushed for this specific model, dismissing alternatives like a South Korean-built submarine. As tensions mount, the navy awaits the final go-ahead while political and defence leaders weigh the ramifications of altering or sustaining the current procurement plan. This situation not only underscores the challenges in military acquisitions but also reflects broader strategic and political considerations at play. Picture courtesy: CHINA DAILY -- 2024-07-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Unveils Ambitious “Zero Dropout” Program Picture courtesy: Wikimedia Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin expressed deep concern over the alarming statistics showing that around one million Thai youths aged 3-18 have dropped out of school. This concern prompted the launch of the “Thailand Zero Dropout” program, a top-priority national agenda aimed at reversing this troubling trend. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331335-thailand-unveils-ambitious-“zero-dropout”-program/

Picture courtesy: Wikimedia Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin expressed deep concern over the alarming statistics showing that around one million Thai youths aged 3-18 have dropped out of school. This concern prompted the launch of the “Thailand Zero Dropout” program, a top-priority national agenda aimed at reversing this troubling trend. Government spokesman Chai Wacharonke announced the adoption of four crucial measures at yesterday’s cabinet meeting, which are to be rolled out across all provinces without delay. The first step involves locating these dropouts. Following that, tailored support will be provided to address the specific needs of each child, ensuring they return to school. A key element of the program is the development of a flexible learning system, designed to cater to the potential and varying circumstances of these young individuals. This will help them continue their education and harness their abilities effectively. Additionally, the government aims to engage the private sector in a proactive role concerning educational management, implementing the “learning to earn” system that blends vocational training with academic education. Sompong Chitradab, a noted educator and member of the Fund for Educational Equality Committee, highlighted that approximately one million secondary school students dropped out last year — nearly double the figure from previous years. The reasons cited include poverty, political unrest, and a myriad of socio-economic issues. Many families, grappling with financial instability worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic, felt compelled to pull their children out of school. Sompong emphasized that the cooperation agreement signed on June 28 between the Education Ministry and 11 affiliated agencies must translate into immediate action. This entails locating these dropouts, assessing their home situations, providing welfare and financial support for education, and securing employment for their parents if necessary. He further criticised the previous Prayut government for neglecting the dropout issue, stressing that the educational system requires significant restructuring. To meet the unique needs of dropouts, the system must be more flexible and inclusive, opening itself up to greater involvement from the private sector and local organisations. In conclusion, the “Thailand Zero Dropout” initiative represents a comprehensive effort to support and reintegrate dropouts, aiming for an inclusive and adaptive educational framework that can handle these challenging circumstances. -- 2024-07-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Intoxicated Foreigner Arrested After Causing Public Disturbance on Bangla Road By Goongnang Suksawat Patong – An intoxicated male foreigner was arrested after he caused a public nuisance near a hotel on the Bangla Road in Patong. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331334-intoxicated-foreigner-arrested-after-causing-public-disturbance-on-bangla-road/

Patong – An intoxicated male foreigner was arrested after he caused a public nuisance near a hotel on the Bangla Road in Patong. The Patong Police told the Phuket Express that on Monday (July 1st) they were notified of the incident in front of an alcohol shop that an intoxicated Caucasian foreigner was annoying tourists and local residents in the area. Police arrived at the scene to find the unidentified foreign man who was unable to control himself. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-07-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

UPDATE: Jordanian Man Rescued After Parasailing Mishap at Kamala Beach By Goongnang Suksawat Kamala, Phuket – On Monday (July 1st), Kamala Police received a distress call regarding a foreign man who became stuck with a parasail on a high pine tree at Kamala Beach. The man, later identified only as Mr. Mohammed, a 26-year-old Jordanian national, was safely rescued by a cherry picker truck. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331275-tourist-rescued-from-tree-following-parasailing-accident-on-phuket-beach/?do=findComment&comment=19035372

Jordanian Man Rescued After Parasailing Mishap at Kamala Beach By Goongnang Suksawat Kamala, Phuket – On Monday (July 1st), Kamala Police received a distress call regarding a foreign man who became stuck with a parasail on a high pine tree at Kamala Beach. The man, later identified only as Mr. Mohammed, a 26-year-old Jordanian national, was safely rescued by a cherry picker truck. According to an unidentified parasail operator, Mr. Mohammed was one of four foreign customers who had used their parasail services. Strong winds caused him to become entangled in the tree during what is typically an eight-minute parasailing session. In response to this incident, Kamala Police Chief Colonel Somsak Thongkleang has issued a warning to parasail operators. When red flags indicating strong winds are present in the area, operators should pause their services for safety reasons. Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-07-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Wanted British Man Arrested Upon Arrival in Phuket Picture courtesy: novostiphuketa.asia A 37-year-old British man was arrested at Phuket Airport upon his arrival in Thailand, following a long-standing warrant for his arrest. The man, whose name has not been disclosed, has been on the radar of Thai authorities since 2017, and his actions are now under close scrutiny. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331333-wanted-british-man-arrested-upon-arrival-in-phuket/

Picture courtesy: novostiphuketa.asia A 37-year-old British man was arrested at Phuket Airport upon his arrival in Thailand, following a long-standing warrant for his arrest. The man, whose name has not been disclosed, has been on the radar of Thai authorities since 2017, and his actions are now under close scrutiny. Thai immigration officers apprehended the suspect at 1:10 PM when his passport check flagged an outstanding warrant issued seven years ago. According to official records, the warrant dated April 7, 2017, with the document number jo-190/2560, demands his arrest over allegations of embezzlement. Reports indicate that the man fled Thailand years ago after purportedly embezzling funds entrusted to him by his employer. The nature of the case hints at a substantial sum, given that it prompted a prolonged search. However, the specifics of the embezzlement, the total amount, and the identity of the employer remain undisclosed at this time. The case is being handled by the Patong police, who have been investigating the matter since at least 2017. This indicates a significant period during which the suspect managed to evade capture by staying abroad. Phuket media has noted the limited information provided in public statements by the Immigration Bureau. Despite searching through their archives, no matching case details were found that would offer further insight into this man's activities or the charges against him. The British embassy in Thailand has been notified of the arrest, but there has been no public statement from them so far. Meanwhile, Thai authorities are likely to proceed with legal actions that could involve extradition or trial within the country. This arrest marks a significant development in a case that has lingered for years and demonstrates Thailand's ongoing commitment to addressing serious financial crimes. Further details are expected as the investigation unfolds. -- 2024-07-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Wednesday 3 July 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1331332-thailand-live-wednesday-3-july-2024/

Thai Government to Close Duty-Free Arrival Stores After Losing 3 Billion Baht File photo The Thai government is set to close duty-free shops at eight airports across Thailand due to an estimated loss of 3 billion baht in customs revenue. This is part of a strategy to make Thailand a renowned tourist and shopping destination. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331313-thai-government-to-close-duty-free-arrival-stores-after-losing-3-billion-baht/

A thrilling parasailing adventure turned into a frightening ordeal for a Saudi Arabian tourist when a sudden wind change left him precariously perched atop a 5-metre pine tree on Kamala Beach in Phuket. Emergency services, including the local police, responded quickly, employing a crane truck to safely rescue the young man. Tourist Rescued from Tree Following Parasailing Accident on Phuket Beach Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331275-tourist-rescued-from-tree-following-parasailing-accident-on-phuket-beach/ Pictures courtesy: 77kaoded

Tourist Rescued from Tree Following Parasailing Accident on Phuket Beach Pictures courtesy: 77kaoded A thrilling parasailing adventure turned into a frightening ordeal for a Saudi Arabian tourist when a sudden wind change left him precariously perched atop a 5-metre pine tree on Kamala Beach in Phuket. Emergency services, including the local police, responded quickly, employing a crane truck to safely rescue the young man. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331275-tourist-rescued-from-tree-following-parasailing-accident-on-phuket-beach/