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Thaksin’s Brother-In-Law Somchai Fails Bid for Thai Senate Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In a surprising turn of events, former Thai Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat, closely linked to influential political figure Thaksin Shinawatra, has been outvoted in his bid to become a senator. The dramatic decision unfolded amidst the national-level senatorial elections overseen by the Election Commission. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330930-thaksin’s-brother-in-law-somchai-fails-bid-for-thai-senate/

In a surprising turn of events, former Thai Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat, closely linked to influential political figure Thaksin Shinawatra, has been outvoted in his bid to become a senator. The dramatic decision unfolded amidst the national-level senatorial elections overseen by the Election Commission. Somchai, who hails from Chiang Mai and had earlier navigated the district and provincial election tiers with success, was widely speculated to be a strong candidate for Senate speaker. This speculation stemmed largely from his connection to Thaksin, who is a dominant figure in the Pheu Thai party. The election outcome, however, refuted these predictions. Somchai is no stranger to political turbulence. He famously served as prime minister in 2008 but faced major opposition from "Yellow Shirt" protestors, who occupied Government House to block his governance. His tenure was notably brief and marked by high tensions. Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat, associated with Pheu Thai, emphasised that Somchai’s defeat clearly demonstrates that the current government was not involved in any secretive electoral manipulation. This comes in response to widespread allegations of potential foul play in the senatorial elections. Despite Somchai’s failure, many other high-profile candidates succeeded, including ex-lawmakers, former provincial governors, and other senior officials. Unlike the 500 MPs elected directly by the public, the 200 senators were elected through a multi-tiered system, with candidates securing votes from their peers across district, provincial, and national levels. Election Commission Secretary-General Sawaeng Boonmee confirmed that investigations into potential electoral fraud are ongoing. Allegations have surfaced about candidates possibly being bribed and acting as "puppet" contestants in exchange for their votes. If serious electoral misconduct is confirmed, those elected could face immediate suspension and further legal action. The Election Commission remains vigilant to ensure the integrity of the electoral process, aiming to bring any wrongdoers to justice. The outcome has sparked fresh conversations about the state of Thailand's political landscape, highlighting the complexities and challenges within its electoral system. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-06-28 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Court Reduces Jail Terms for Suthep and PDRC Associates Picture courtesy: Naewna The Appeals Court in Thailand made headlines by drastically reducing the prison sentences previously handed to 18 core members of the People's Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330929-court-reduces-jail-terms-for-suthep-and-pdrc-associates/

The Appeals Court in Thailand made headlines by drastically reducing the prison sentences previously handed to 18 core members of the People's Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC). Originally sentenced to between five and nine years by the Criminal Court, their terms have now been commuted to 12 months. Four of the 18 defendants had their sentences suspended for two years, while the rest are not. These convictions, upheld by the Appeals Court, relate to a series of anti-government protests that took place from November 2013 to May 2014, aimed at toppling then-Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra's administration. The charges ranged from incitement to strike, criminal association, encroachment on government buildings, to disruption of traffic. Notably, they were acquitted of more severe charges of sedition and terrorism, as the protests were deemed non-violent. The 18 individuals in question include prominent figures such as Suthep Thaugsuban, former secretary-general of the PDRC, Chumphol Julasai, Puttipong Punnakanta, Nataphol Teepsuwan, Issara Somchai, Thavorn Senniam, and the late Suvit Thongprasert, also known as Phra Buddha Issara. In addition, the list features Samdin Lertbut, Somsak Kosaisuk, Komsan Thongsiri, Samran Rodpetch, Amorn Amornratananont, Kittichai Saisa-ard, Anchalee Paireerak, Sathit Wongnongtaey, Taya Teepsuwan, Savit Kaewwan, and Sathit Segal. While 19 other defendants were acquitted by the Criminal Court—a decision confirmed by the Appeals Court—a total of 39 core PDRC members were originally indicted. Of the total, 37 appeared in court today, with two others having passed away. All the defendants have applied for bail and are now awaiting the court's decision on their applications. The ruling highlights the complexities and ongoing reverberations from the politically turbulent period in Thailand's recent history. Picture courtesy: Naewna -- 2024-06-28 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Supreme Court Upholds Death Penalty for Ex-Pheu Thai MP Banyin Tangpakorn Picture courtesy:Thai Rath The Supreme Court has upheld the death penalty for Banyin Tangpakorn, a former Pheu Thai MP and cabinet member, marking a decisive end to a high-profile and grisly murder case. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330928-supreme-court-upholds-death-penalty-for-ex-pheu-thai-mp-banyin-tangpakorn/

The Supreme Court of Thailand has upheld the death penalty for Banyin Tangpakorn, a former Pheu Thai MP and cabinet member, marking a decisive end to a high-profile and grisly murder case. Banyin was found guilty of orchestrating the premeditated murder of Chuwong Sae Tang, a wealthy construction magnate, in a staged car accident in Bangkok's Prawet district in 2015. The court determined that Banyin, who was driving the car with Chuwong seated beside him, deliberately crashed the vehicle into a roadside tree to cover up the homicide. The ruling not only reaffirmed the Appeals Court’s earlier sentencing but also closed a dark chapter involving the former police lieutenant colonel. Shifted from his role as a law enforcer to that of a lawbreaker, Banyin used his insider knowledge to carry out and disguise his crime, a factor that played heavily against him in court. Chuwong's murder was particularly shocking due to Banyin's calculated efforts to stage the scene as an accidental crash. The initial investigation faced numerous challenges, given Banyin's sophisticated attempt at a cover-up. However, evidence eventually revealed the premeditated nature of the crime, leading to his conviction. Banyin's criminal activities weren't confined to this single incident. Before his 2020 arrest, he had been implicated in another deceptive car accident in 1991, where he survived but a woman lost her life. This case, however, didn't lead to a conviction. Furthermore, Banyin was also accused of involvement in the 2020 murder of a judge's brother, adding to his notoriety. In the wake of his sentencing, the former MP attempted suicide in prison, underscoring the severity of his situation. The Supreme Court’s decision underscores the gravity of his actions and serves as a stark reminder of the ramifications of abusing power. Picture courtesy:Thai Rath -- 2024-06-28 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 28 June 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1330927-thailand-live-friday-28-june-2024/

Volcanic durian from southern Thailand creates year-long waitlist Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A surge in demand has led to a year-long waitlist for the unique volcanic durian grown exclusively in southern Thailand, which boasts a GAP certification ensuring its safety and quality. This particular variety is reported to be twice as delicious as the commonly known Monthong durian. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330890-volcanic-durian-from-southern-thailand-creates-year-long-waitlist/

A public bus veered off the road in Nakhon Ratchasima, hit a lamp post, and capsized due to a slippery highway. As a result, 37 passengers were injured; 19 were men and 18 were women. Slippery highway causes bus to overturn, injuring 37 passengers Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330910-slippery-highway-causes-bus-to-overturn-injuring-37-passengers/

Man arrested in Phetchaburi after killing wife in drunken rage by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A man in Phetchaburi has been arrested after allegedly killing his wife in a drunken rage. The incident took place yesterday, June 26, at a townhouse on Khlong Thian Road in Cha-am, after he reportedly became furious when his wife refused to give him money for alcohol. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330853-man-arrested-in-phetchaburi-after-killing-wife-in-drunken-rage/

A man in Phetchaburi has been arrested after allegedly killing his wife in a drunken rage. The incident took place yesterday, June 26, at a townhouse on Khlong Thian Road in Cha-am, after he reportedly became furious when his wife refused to give him money for alcohol. The police were alerted to the scene at approximately 11.30pm yesterday. Upon arriving, they found the house locked from the inside. They had to call the landlord to gain access to the property. They found the lifeless body of 54 year old Kittinan in the kitchen. Her hands were tied with an electric cord, and she had severe injuries to her head and face, which were inflicted with an iron and several broken bottles of alcohol scattered around her. The suspect, identified as 49 year old Prasit Chok, was found in a state of undress and heavily intoxicated. He refused to open the door for the officers, necessitating the involvement of the landlord to unlock the door. Prasit was immediately taken into custody and transported to Cha-am Police Station. According to the victim’s daughter, Sirinya, she had urged her mother to leave Prasit numerous times due to his alcohol dependency and refusal to work. Their relationship had caused significant tension between Sirinya and her mother, leading to a severe argument about a year ago. They had not been in contact since then, and she was devastated to learn of her mother’s fate. “I wanted to help my mother but she chose to stay with him. I hope the police will ensure justice is served.” Prasit has confessed to the murder, admitting that he struck his wife with an iron and several bottles after she refused to give him money to buy alcohol. He is now facing a murder charge. The local police, led by Deputy Inspector Patcharawan Ritchai and Superintendent Somkiat Chomchai, with the investigation team and forensic experts from Cha-am Hospital, documented the scene and gathered evidence. Rescue workers from Sawang Sanphet Rescue also assisted at the scene. Prasit is being held at the local police station, where he awaits further legal proceedings, reported KhaoSod. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal hoto courtesy of KhaoSod Full story: The Thaiger] 2024-06-27 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Udon Thani student narrowly escapes sexual assault by four men by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod A female student escaped a harrowing experience just in the nick of time, after being forcefully dragged into a house by a group of four drunken men, who attempted to force-feed her alcohol and sexually assault her. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330852-udon-thani-student-narrowly-escapes-sexual-assault-by-four-men/

A female student escaped a harrowing experience just in the nick of time, after being forcefully dragged into a house by a group of four drunken men, who attempted to force-feed her alcohol and sexually assault her. The events transpired yesterday at 12.30am, yesterday, June 26, at a home located in Mueang district, Udon Thani. She managed to call her boyfriend for help as the men were momentarily distracted. At 4.30pm, Deputy Inspector (Investigation) of Mueang Udon Thani Police Station, Theeraphan Kaewphonyo, received a report from a 19 year old student, referred to as A, that she had been forcibly taken into a house and sexually assaulted by a group of four men. The victim, A, recounted that she had an argument with her boyfriend on the night of the incident and decided to walk from her dormitory to his house. Upon arriving, she noticed four men, university students aged between 21 and 23 years, drinking alcohol at a social gathering at a residence located just down the road from her boyfriend’s place. They shouted at the student, asking if she wanted to join them for a beer. But before she could respond, one of them walked out and dragged her into the house. Once inside, they attempted to sexually assault and force-feed her beer. Terrified, as she had never experienced anything like this before, she seized the opportunity to message and call her boyfriend for help when the group was momentarily distracted. Her boyfriend, living close to the scene of the incident, just 100 metres away, arrived shortly after with a group of five friends to confront the drunken rapists. Upon his arrival, he asked the men about her whereabouts, but they claimed not to have seen her. Not buying the lies, he searched the house and successfully rescued her, reported KhaoSod. Law enforcement officials are now actively investigating the case, focusing on gathering evidence and securing the arrest of the perpetrators. by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Full story: The Thaiger 2024-06-27 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Targets 2.4 Million Indian Tourists with Visa-Free Policy File photo courtesy: Wikipedia The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has revised its target for Indian tourist arrivals from 2.3 to 2.4 million this year, spurred by the recently introduced visa-free policy for Indian nationals. This visa waiver programme, which permits 60-day visa-free stays, applies to citizens of 93 countries and will remain effective until November 2024. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330848-thailand-targets-24-million-indian-tourists-with-visa-free-policy/

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has revised its target for Indian tourist arrivals from 2.3 to 2.4 million this year, spurred by the recently introduced visa-free policy for Indian nationals. This visa waiver programme, which permits 60-day visa-free stays, applies to citizens of 93 countries and will remain effective until November 2024. TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool stated that Indian arrivals are anticipated to exceed 1 million by the end of this month, almost reaching half of the initial target of 2.08 million for the year. The revised target aims to contribute to the government’s goal of attracting 36.7 million tourists and generating 3.5 trillion baht in revenue in 2023, benefitting from consistent tourism numbers even during off-peak periods. Indian tourist arrivals this year are expected to hit a record high, surpassing the 1.9 million visitors in 2019, according to Thapanee. There is speculation among tourism operators that the Indian government might offer a reciprocal visa exemption for Thai tourists, though Thapanee clarified this remains unconfirmed. “In principle, two-way visa-free travel would significantly boost travel demand in both nations.” Currently, Thai citizens can apply for a one-month e-visa to visit India. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin indicated earlier this year that the government would persist in negotiations with India for a permanent reciprocal visa-free arrangement, following successful talks with China. Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya, Deputy Governor for International Marketing in Asia and the South Pacific at TAT, announced plans for a promotional roadshow through four second-tier Indian cities: Lucknow, Chandigarh, Bangalore, and Ahmedabad, targeting potential tourists. “The TAT’s New Delhi office will focus on attracting small families and groups of friends to enjoy Thailand’s recreational activities.” Indian tourists’ average spending per trip has increased to 40,000 baht (US$1,080) this year, from 38,000 baht (US$1,030) in 2022. Flight connections between Thailand and India have recovered to 80% of pre-pandemic levels. The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand has committed to raising the number of seats by 7,000 per week between Thailand and India starting in November. The Airlines Association of Thailand reported that seat quotas on Thailand-India routes are mainly held by Thai Airways International, with other carriers struggling to capture market share. Suksit Suvunditkul, President of the Southern Chapter of the Thai Hotels Association, noted that Indian tourists remain among the top three markets for Phuket, visiting for various reasons including meetings, incentive groups, weddings, and family leisure tourism. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-06-27 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Singaporean Man Drugged and Robbed in Bangkok Picture courtesy: bodu365 A Singaporean man has reported being drugged and robbed by his Thai girlfriend during a stay at a Bangkok hotel, leading to the loss of valuables worth over 1 million baht. The incident occurred on June 19, and the man has since lodged a formal complaint with Huay Kwang Police Station. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330845-singaporean-man-drugged-and-robbed-in-bangkok/

A Singaporean man has reported being drugged and robbed by his Thai girlfriend during a stay at a Bangkok hotel, leading to the loss of valuables worth over 1 million baht. The incident occurred on June 19, and the man has since lodged a formal complaint with Huay Kwang Police Station. The victim, whose identity remains undisclosed, had been conversing online with the Thai woman, identified later as 33-year-old Kittiyaporn, for over four years. He decided to visit her in Thailand and spend some time together, expecting to finally meet someone he felt he knew well. However, the meeting took a dark turn when he awoke the next day to find her gone, along with his possessions, including a Rolex watch valued at 1.5 million baht, cash, and designer clothes. Security footage from the hotel and surrounding areas helped police identify Kittiyaporn, who already had three outstanding warrants for theft issued by Lampakchee Police Station in Bangkok’s Nong Chok district and Mueang Pattaya Police Station. This history has heightened the urgency for her apprehension, and the authorities believe they are close to locating her. The Singaporean man shared his feelings of betrayal and disappointment, stating that he felt their four years of online interaction had established a trustworthy relationship. This experience has left him more cautious about online dating and meeting people in unfamiliar settings. Notably, this incident adds to a growing concern about such crimes. In a related case from March, another Thai woman met a Chinese man on a dating app, only to rob him of his credit cards. She initially denied the accusations and counterclaimed attempted rape, which complicates such incidents further. Authorities are urging caution and advising the public to be vigilant when meeting online acquaintances in person, given the reported rise in similar scams. Picture courtesy: bodu365 -- 2024-06-27 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand reduces school hours in major curriculum overhaul File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand’s Ministry of Education has announced an ambitious overhaul of the national curriculum, aiming to reduce school hours and incorporate more practical and tech-based learning. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330844-thailand-reduces-school-hours-in-major-curriculum-overhaul/

Thailand’s Ministry of Education has announced an ambitious overhaul of the national curriculum, aiming to reduce school hours and incorporate more practical and tech-based learning. The Office of the Basic Education Commission (Obec) is leading this initiative. Thanu Wongjinda, Obec secretary-general, disclosed that the plan necessitates a panel's establishment to review the curriculum, last updated in 2008. This step aims to modernise the educational framework to meet global standards. Obec has been integrating technology-based subjects into individual courses, but this upcoming reform is viewed as a transformative upgrade. The proposed reduction in school hours stands as one of the most significant changes, addressing concerns that Thai students spend far more time in class than their global counterparts. Currently, students from Pathom 1 to 6 (grades one to six) undergo at least 1,000 hours of classes and activities annually. Those in Mathayom 1 to 3 (grades seven to nine) face no fewer than 1,200 hours a year. For Mathayom 4 to 6 (grades 10 to 12), the total amounts to over 3,600 hours across three years. “It only makes sense to try and scale back study hours,” stated Thanu. He further explained that the panel, once formed, would review each subject and look for areas of improvement. The initiative aims to foster more balanced and effective learning experiences for students. Input will be sought from educational professionals, students, parents, publishers, and other stakeholders to ensure the reforms are comprehensive and inclusive. Deputy Education Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul expressed concerns about budget constraints impacting the ministry's Learning Anywhere Anytime project, which focuses on online learning for Mathayom 4 to 6 students. Initially set at 7.6 billion baht (US$ 205.5 million), the budget was reduced to 4.1 billion baht (US$ 110 million). “The cut will hurt the project's overall efficiency,” lamented the deputy minister. The forthcoming changes aim to better equip Thai students for the future, balancing classroom time with practical, modern learning methods. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-06-27 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Heavy rain and flash flood warnings issued across Thailand by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of Brandon Morgan, Unsplash The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued a warning for heavy rain across all regions of Thailand, cautioning residents to beware of flash floods and overflowing rivers. The Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand are expected to see high waves. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330843-heavy-rain-and-flash-flood-warnings-issued-across-thailand/

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued a warning for heavy rain across all regions of Thailand, cautioning residents to beware of flash floods and overflowing rivers. The Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand are expected to see high waves. The Thai Meteorological Department forecast for the next 24 hours indicates that a monsoon trough will pass through the northern and upper northeastern regions. Meanwhile, the relatively strong southwest monsoon covering the Andaman Sea, the southern region, and the Gulf of Thailand is beginning to weaken. This weather pattern will result in continued heavy rainfall in some areas of the northern and northeastern regions. The southern region will experience scattered thunderstorms. Residents in these areas are advised to be cautious of heavy rainfall and accumulated rain, which could lead to flash floods and forest runoff, particularly in mountainous areas near watercourses and low-lying areas. The Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand will see weakened wind and wave conditions. The upper Andaman Sea will have waves reaching heights of 1 to 2 metres, with waves exceeding 2 metres in areas with thunderstorms. The lower Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand will have waves about 1 metre high, with thunderstorms causing waves to exceed 1 metre. Mariners in these areas are advised to navigate carefully and avoid sailing in areas with thunderstorms. The weather forecast for Thailand from 6am today to 6am tomorrow is as follows: In the northern region, there is a 70% chance of thunderstorms, with heavy rain in some areas including Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Nan, Uttaradit, Kamphaeng Phet, Phitsanulok, Phetchabun, and Tak. The lowest temperatures will range from 24 to 26 degrees Celsius, while the highest temperatures will range from 31 to 34 degrees Celsius. Variable winds will blow at a speed of 10 to 15 kilometres per hour. Heavy rain In the northeastern region, there is a 70% chance of thunderstorms, with heavy rain expected in some areas such as Loei, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Nong Bua Lamphu, Udon Thani, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Khon Kaen, Kalasin, Maha Sarakham, and Roi Et. The lowest temperatures will range from 23 to 25 degrees Celsius, and the highest will range from 31 to 33 degrees Celsius. Southwest winds will blow at speeds of 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. In the central region, there is a 60% chance of thunderstorms, mainly in Nakhon Sawan, Uthai Thani, Chai Nat, Lop Buri, Saraburi, Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Samut Sakhon, and Samut Songkhram. The lowest temperatures will range from 24 to 26 degrees Celsius, while the highest will range from 33 to 35 degrees Celsius. Southwest winds will blow at speeds of 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. In the eastern region, there is a 60% chance of thunderstorms, mostly in Nakhon Nayok, Prachin Buri, Chachoengsao, Chon Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat. The lowest temperatures will range from 23 to 27 degrees Celsius, and the highest will range from 32 to 34 degrees Celsius. Southwest winds will blow at speeds of 15 to 30 kilometres per hour. The sea will have waves about 1 metre high, with areas experiencing thunderstorms seeing waves exceeding 1 metre. In the southern region (east coast), there is a 30% chance of thunderstorms, mainly in Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Yala, and Narathiwat. The lowest temperatures will range from 23 to 26 degrees Celsius, while the highest will range from 33 to 37 degrees Celsius. Southwest winds will blow at speeds of 15 to 30 kilometres per hour. The sea will have waves about 1 metre high, with thunderstorms causing waves to exceed 1 metre. In the southern region (west coast), there is a 30% chance of thunderstorms, mainly in Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, and Krabi. The lowest temperatures will range from 24 to 26 degrees Celsius, while the highest will range from 32 to 36 degrees Celsius. From Phang Nga upwards, southwest winds will blow at speeds of 15 to 35 kilometres per hour, with sea waves reaching 1 to 2 metres and exceeding 2 metres in areas with thunderstorms. From Phuket downwards, southwest winds will blow at speeds of 15 to 30 kilometres per hour, with sea waves about 1 metre high, and thunderstorms causing waves to exceed 1 metre, reported KhaoSod. In Bangkok and surrounding areas, there is a 60% chance of thunderstorms. The lowest temperatures will range from 24 to 26 degrees Celsius, and the highest will range from 31 to 34 degrees Celsius. Southwest winds will blow at speeds of 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of Brandon Morgan, Unsplash Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-27 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Bank of Thailand Forecasts Modest Growth for Remainder of 2024 Picture courtesy: Kaohoon The Bank of Thailand anticipates slower economic growth in the upcoming third and fourth quarters, attributing this to a high base effect. According to Piti Disyatat, secretary of the central bank’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), second-quarter GDP is expected to grow by 1% from the previous quarter, a decline from the 1.5% growth observed in the first quarter. These projections were shared during a monetary policy forum held yesterday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330842-bank-of-thailand-forecasts-modest-growth-for-remainder-of-2024/

The Bank of Thailand anticipates slower economic growth in the upcoming third and fourth quarters, attributing this to a high base effect. According to Piti Disyatat, secretary of the central bank’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), second-quarter GDP is expected to grow by 1% from the previous quarter, a decline from the 1.5% growth observed in the first quarter. These projections were shared during a monetary policy forum held yesterday. The central bank now estimates the growth rate for the third and fourth quarters to be between 0.6% and 0.7% per quarter due to the high base effect. Despite this deceleration, economic activities are predicted to increase, driven by improved domestic demand, a recovery in tourism, and accelerated government budget disbursement. On an annual basis, the central bank forecasts stronger growth momentum of 1%, 2%, 3%, and 4% for the first, second, third, and fourth quarters, respectively. This would result in a Thai GDP expansion of 2.6% for this year and 3% for the following year, compared to the 1.9% growth recorded in 2023. Earlier this month, the MPC voted 6-1 to maintain the policy rate at 2.5%, with one member advocating for a 0.25 percentage point cut in the policy rate. “Economic growth should continue to expand and achieve the potential growth rate of 3% next year,” said Piti. Piti noted that the Thai economic recovery would differ across sectors. Services, primarily tourism, are expected to lead to improvements in employment and labour income in related industries. Conversely, recovery in the manufacturing sector will vary by industry, influenced by both cyclical and structural factors. The manufacturing sector, which employs approximately 6.3 million people, faces challenges that could have spillover effects on some areas of the service sector. Employment in the manufacturing sector constitutes 14 to 15% of total employment, in contrast to 30% in the agricultural sector, 20% in tourism, and 20% in services. Higher competition in the electric vehicle (EV) industry, particularly from Chinese manufacturers, has impacted segments of the automotive industry. Piti mentioned that this trend is not unique to Thailand but is also occurring in the US and Europe. Additionally, production and export of internal combustion engine-powered vehicles have decreased as demand for EVs increases and global demand softens. This has affected overall vehicle production in the country. “Stiff pricing competition in the EV segment has led prospective buyers to take a wait-and-see stance, dampening vehicle production. However, the situation is expected to gradually resolve later,” Piti stated. The gradual resolution of pricing competition in the EV market is anticipated to stabilise vehicle production in the future. Picture courtesy: Kaohoon -- 2024-06-27 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Man Assaulted by Girlfriend’s Ex in Samut Prakan Picture courtesy: thuethainews A man was grievously attacked by his girlfriend’s ex-boyfriend with a knife in Samut Prakan, leaving him with severe injuries. Authorities are actively seeking the suspect. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330841-man-assaulted-by-girlfriend’s-ex-in-samut-prakan/

A man was grievously attacked by his girlfriend’s ex-boyfriend with a knife in Samut Prakan, leaving him with severe injuries. Authorities are actively seeking the suspect. The incident occurred on Thepharak Road in Bang Phli district. Bang Phli Police and Ruamkatanyu Foundation officers responded to the distress call. Upon arrival, they discovered 28-year-old Kittiphong Thossiriwat with a deep knife wound on his left arm, in front of an auto accessory shop. Kittiphong received first aid from foundation paramedics before being transported to Chularat 3 International Hospital. Nearby, his white Yamaha GT motorcycle with registration number 4 กณ 7198 Bangkok, was found, groceries still hanging from it. Eyewitnesses indicated that the assailant fled the scene on a blue, big bike-style motorcycle heading towards Samrong. An eyewitness, identified as A, reported seeing the assailant confront Kittiphong before brandishing a knife and attacking him without provocation. "I saw him pull a knife from his bike and start chasing the victim," A recounted. "The victim was alone, and the guy on the big bike was alone too." Another witness, 50-year-old B, intervened during the assault. “I saw the man with the knife shouting and pointing it at the victim. The victim ran into the shop to hide, and the attacker discarded the knife before walking away. I called the police immediately,” B stated. B further mentioned that the victim claimed not to know the attacker. Preliminary investigations identified the assailant as the ex-boyfriend of the woman Kittiphong is currently dating. The two men had previous confrontations over the relationship, culminating in this violent attack. The police are pursuing the suspect and plan to interview the woman to gather more information. The authorities have urged anyone with information to come forward as they continue to investigate the assault. Picture courtesy: thuethainews -- 2024-06-27 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe