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NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Thursday 27 June 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330839-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-thursday-27-june-2024/

Authorities discovered a secret bitcoin mining operation in Ratchaburi yesterday after irregular power consumption patterns were detected. Officers seized 59 mining devices and arrested one person. Investigators believe 700 devices were installed, though most were removed before the raid. The illegal operation reportedly cost Egat about 10 million baht per month. A panel of Police Commissioners unanimously voted yesterday to support the dismissal of Pol Gen Surachate Hakparn, known as “Big Joke,” due to his alleged ties to an online gambling network. Hakparn denied the allegations, claiming they were fabricated by rivals to prevent his path to becoming police chief. A truckers' association in Northeast Thailand say they will form a convoy of trucks next week in a protest, to call on the government to maintain the price of diesel at 30 baht per litre. The association says transport businesses in the north are facing hardship due to the rising diesel price which was almost at 33 baht per litre. The Ministry of Education is seeking a major overhaul of the school curriculum, which would reduce school hours and promote non-classroom learning activities. The idea is to modernise the country's basic-level of education, however a proposed budget of 7.6 billion baht for next year has been reduced to 4 . 1 billion. Thai students currently have some of the longest school hours in the world. Around the region. Chinese authorities confirmed they are still holding a former Taiwanese soldier, surnamed Hu, who was detained by the coastguard three months ago. Hu is in good health and saw his family last weekend. A Chinese spokeswoman accused Taipei of "maliciously misleading" claims about detaining more former soldiers or police officers to recruit intelligence sources. She assured that Taiwanese citizens not involved in illegal activities have nothing to worry about when traveling to the mainland. Todays’ WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: Cloudy with thundershowers 32C degrees celsius Bangkok: partly cloudy with showers 33 Pattaya: Sunny partly cloudy Cloudy 31 Phuket and the south: Sunny partly cloudy Cloudy 30 Hua Hin: Sunny partly cloudy Cloudy with isolated showers, 32 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 2024-06-27 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai PM's Phenix Project Launched to Boost Global Food Wholesale Hub Ambitions Picture courtesy: Matichon Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has officially launched the Phenix project, an ambitious initiative designed to establish Thailand as a global food wholesale hub. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330838-thai-pms-phenix-project-launched-to-boost-global-food-wholesale-hub-ambitions/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has officially launched the Phenix project, an ambitious initiative designed to establish Thailand as a global food wholesale hub. The project, supported by Thailand’s leading real estate group, Asset World Corporation (AWC), aims to attract global food industry professionals and promote Thai cuisine on the international stage. The Phenix project seeks to foster collaboration and innovation within the global food industry by creating a platform for professionals to exchange knowledge and develop new food technologies. Srettha emphasised that this initiative could significantly enhance Thailand's trade opportunities, benefiting both domestic and international markets. The Prime Minister highlighted the role of both public and private sectors in supporting the Phenix project. He noted that the collaboration is crucial for promoting Thai cuisine and boosting Thailand’s tourism industry, positioning the country as a key player in the global food market. The project will also feature food lounges with renowned food stores, offering unique culinary experiences for Thai and international tourists. This aligns with Thailand’s broader soft power strategy to enhance its cultural influence. In line with the Phenix project, the Thai government previously rolled out the “5 Must Do in Thailand” strategy. This strategy aims to attract tourists by offering diverse and engaging activities. The five key components include: 1. Must Eat**: Savouring regional foods. 2. Must See**: Immersing in Thai local traditions. 3. Must Seek**: Discovering hidden gems across the country. 4. Must Buy**: Purchasing local, authentic products. 5. Must Beat**: Participating in adventurous and challenging sports. These activities will be available across Thailand's five regions throughout the year, enhancing the country's attractiveness to both food enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The combination of the Phenix project and the “5 Must Do in Thailand” strategy reflects Thailand's proactive approach to boosting its economy through tourism and the food industry, firmly positioning itself as a pivotal food wholesale hub on the global stage. Picture courtesy: Matichon -- 2024-06-27 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Search Underway For Missing Director of School in Lamphun Picture courtesy: Thailand TV Police and family members of Ruchagorn Jaisanti, the acting director of a school in Nong Chang Khuen sub-district, Lamphun, are now in the tenth day of a search for the missing 43-year-old. Ruchagorn has not been seen since 16th June, leaving his family and the local community in distress. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330837-search-underway-for-missing-director-of-school-in-lamphun/

Police and family members of Ruchagorn Jaisanti, the acting director of a school in Nong Chang Khuen sub-district, Lamphun, are now in the tenth day of a search for the missing 43-year-old. Ruchagorn has not been seen since 16th June, leaving his family and the local community in distress. CCTV footage from 14th June shows Ruchagorn conversing with a group of teachers at the school before his car was spotted at a petrol station in Umong sub-district. This sighting has been one of the last concrete pieces of evidence in his disappearance. Adding to the complexity of the case, Ruchagorn was under significant stress before he went missing. His parents disclosed that a teacher from his school had fled with a sum of the school's funds, a sum for which Ruchagorn had given approval. This incident put him under intense pressure, prompting his wife to seek medical help for him. He was prescribed medication to manage his stress. Two days prior to his disappearance, a committee had been formed to investigate the actions of two teachers at the school. Authorities are unsure whether these events are linked to Ruchagorn’s vanishing but are probing these angles seriously. Efforts to locate Ruchagorn have involved scrutinising additional CCTV footage along his likely travel routes. His family has been active on social media, posting details about his disappearance to attract public attention and gather potential leads. Despite the heightened interest, there have been no substantial developments. The investigation remains ongoing, with the local police urging anyone with information to come forward. The community hopes for Ruchagorn’s safe return as search efforts continue. Picture courtesy: Thailand TV -- 2024-06-27 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Stray Dogs Kill 70 Fighting Cocks at Thai Farm Picture courtesy: Khaosod A devastating incident unfolded today in Pak Chong, Nakhon Ratchasima, when a pack of stray dogs invaded a cockfighting farm, resulting in the death of 70 fighting cocks and causing significant financial loss for the farm owner. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330836-stray-dogs-kill-70-fighting-cocks-at-thai-farm/

A devastating incident unfolded today in Pak Chong, Nakhon Ratchasima, when a pack of stray dogs invaded a cockfighting farm, resulting in the death of 70 fighting cocks and causing significant financial loss for the farm owner. 27-year-old Nonthawat Konsungnoen, the distressed owner of the farm, recounted being jolted awake around 2:30 AM by frantic clucking and commotion on his property. Rushing out with a flashlight, he discovered three Thai-breed stray dogs attacking his prized fighting birds. As Nonthawat illuminated the area, the dogs fled the scene, leaving behind a devastating trail of dead birds. Each of these fighting cocks is valued at several thousand baht, with the total financial loss exceeding 60,000 baht. The stray dogs involved were previously owned by a local resident who relocated and egregiously failed to take the dogs along, leaving them to fend for themselves. This abandonment highlights a broader issue concerning pet responsibility in communities. Nonthawat has publicly called on the previous owner to reclaim the dogs and take accountability for the damage caused. He expressed a desire for the owner to step forward and prevent any further incidents involving these animals. In the wake of this tragic event, Nonthawat plans to distribute the surviving chickens among local villagers. This gesture is intended to both offset some of his losses and foster community support. Sharing the birds as family meals could help mitigate the immediate impact of this catastrophe and strengthen communal bonds. This episode underscores the broader issues of pet abandonment and the risks posed by stray animals. Without proper care and supervision, these animals can become a danger to both community members and their livelihoods. Picture courtesy: Khaosod -- 2024-06-27 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Strong Thai Public Support For Cannabis Reclassification Picture courtesy: Facebook Thai Enquirer Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin has opened discussions about the potential reclassification of cannabis as a type 5 narcotic, following a public consultation period from June 11th to 25th, 2024. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330834-strong-thai-public-support-for cannabis-reclassification/

Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin has opened discussions about the potential reclassification of cannabis as a type 5 narcotic, following a public consultation period from June 11th to 25th, 2024. This consultation saw around 100,000 participants, with over 80% reportedly supporting reclassification, according to Thepsuthin. During a press conference on June 26th, Thepsuthin addressed widespread public and industry concerns. He clarified that although the draft announcement did not specifically mention “domestically produced” cannabis, subsequent ministerial regulations would address this and other ambiguities. The draft, approved by the Narcotics Control Board (NCB), aims to regulate recreational use while still permitting medical and economic applications of cannabis. The importation of cannabis parts, which has raised eyebrows, was also clarified. Thepsuthin stressed that the reclassification does not intend to open the market for imports but rather to maintain stringent control over non-narcotic parts of the cannabis plant, in line with international standards. Medical cannabis remains governed by existing ministerial regulations. The government’s policy continues to support its medical, health, and economic benefits, reported Pattaya News. The detailed regulations resulting from the reclassification will be developed through further legislation, subject to the NCB’s review and approval. Thepsuthin highlighted that after reviewing public feedback, the revised draft will be submitted to NCB, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul. The NCB’s input is crucial as Charnvirakul, who led the decriminalisation of cannabis, may necessitate guarantees for medical and business licenses. The final stages might take about 30 days, considering the NCB's monthly meetings. While public sentiment largely backs reclassification, not everyone is onboard. The “Shaping the Future of Thai Cannabis” network is planning a demonstration at Government House on July 8th, opposing the move. Thepsuthin, however, remains open to dialogue, suggesting that the government’s firm stance against recreational use may be causing the rift. He noted that most cannabis businesses focusing on medical sales and use have accepted the proposal, whereas recreational users might face challenges ahead. Picture courtesy: Facebook Thai Enquirer -- 2024-06-27 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

BLACKPINK’s Lisa Announces New Solo Single “Rockstar” Picture courtesy: TV 5 BLACKPINK’s Lisa unveils her highly anticipated solo single, "Rockstar," set to drop at 8pm ET on June 27. The Thai rapper ignited excitement across social media with an Instagram Story revealing the title and release date of her latest track, following two weeks of steady hints. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330833-blackpink’s-lisa-announces-new-solo-single-“rockstar”/

BLACKPINK’s Lisa unveils her highly anticipated solo single, "Rockstar," set to drop at 8pm ET on June 27. The Thai rapper ignited excitement across social media with an Instagram Story revealing the title and release date of her latest track, following two weeks of steady hints. At the beginning of June, Lisa hinted at her new music venture by launching a TikTok account, sharing snippets of what fans now know to be "Rockstar." The music video features striking shots of Bangkok’s Yaowarat at night and the abandoned New World shopping mall, adding a unique local flavour to the production. In August, the Guinness World Records acknowledged Lisa for amassing a million followers on TikTok in just two hours and 18 minutes, a clear testament to her global influence. As part of her promotion, Lisa continued to tease "Rockstar" with additional TikTok clips. One such snippet features the phrase “Baby, I’m a rock star,” giving fans a tantalising glimpse of what to expect. "Rockstar" marks Lisa’s first major project since signing with RCA Records. This new partnership, in conjunction with her own company LLOUD, ensures she maintains ownership of her master recordings. Lisa's prior solo hits, "Lalisa" and "Money," were released under YG Entertainment and Interscope Records, with "Money" notably becoming the first solo K-pop song to surpass a billion streams on Spotify in 2023. Commenting on her latest professional move, Lisa stated in April, “I’m super excited to be joining the RCA family, and I am confident they are the best team to create a bigger movement in my solo career. Looking forward to showing the world everything we have been preparing.” Fans are eagerly waiting to see how "Rockstar" shakes up the music scene, and Lisa's return promises to be nothing short of spectacular. Picture courtesy: TV 5 -- 2024-06-27 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thaksin Makes Comeback: Former PM Speaks at Pheu Thai Headquarters Picture courtesy; Thai Rath Paroled former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra made a high-profile appearance at the Pheu Thai Party headquarters yesterday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330832-thaksin-makes-comeback-former-pm-speaks-at-pheu-thai-headquarters/

Paroled former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra made a high-profile appearance at the Pheu Thai Party headquarters yesterday. As a special guest speaker for the Pheu Thai Party Academy, Thaksin delivered a riveting lecture, urging party members to continually improve their skills and embrace lifelong learning. Addressing a class comprised predominantly of Pheu Thai MPs, Thaksin commended their active participation in the recent budget debate in Parliament. “I have been closely following your contributions.” Thaksin encouraged them to keep honing their abilities. “Don’t act like a full glass of water, be open to more practice and new knowledge.” Among the attendees was Thaksin’s youngest daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who currently leads the Pheu Thai party. The public got wind of this exclusive lecture after enthusiastic participants shared details and photos on social media. This marks Thaksin’s second visit to the Pheu Thai headquarters since his return from self-imposed exile last August. Despite his parole on three corruption convictions and recent indictments on charges of lese majeste and violations of the Computer Crime Act, Thaksin remains a prominent and unflinching figure in Thai politics. Released on 500,000 baht bail, he continues to make public appearances and offer his insights on political affairs. Picture courtesy; Thai Rath -- 2024-06-27 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Digital Wallet Scheme Delayed Over Detail Shortage Picture courtesy: The Government Public Relations Department The House Budget Scrutiny Committee has decided to place the 152.7 billion baht budget for the government’s 'digital wallet' scheme on hold, citing insufficient details about the project. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330831-digital-wallet-scheme-delayed-over-detail-shortage/

The House Budget Scrutiny Committee has decided to place the 152.7 billion baht budget for the government’s 'digital wallet' scheme on hold, citing insufficient details about the project. Takorn Tantasith, a Thai Sang Thai party-list MP and a member of the committee, revealed through a Facebook post that the committee demanded comprehensive details from the Office of the Permanent Secretary of Finance before they could approve the funding. Similarly, Sirikan Tansakul, a Move Forward party-list MP and committee member, mentioned in her "X" post that the only information provided was a single page indicating the budget amount. There was no further elaboration on the project’s specifics or the responsible state agencies. The program aims to roll out a 500 billion baht populist scheme, which will be financed through various sources. 175 billion baht will come from the 2024 fiscal budget, 152.7 billion baht from the 2025 fiscal budget, and an additional 172.3 billion baht will be borrowed from the Bank of Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives. The scheme promises a one-time benefit of 10,000 baht to all Thai citizens aged 16 and above, under specific conditions. Eligible recipients must have an annual income not exceeding 840,000 baht, or combined bank account deposits not above 500,000 baht. The government envisages that this digital wallet initiative would inject a much-needed financial boost to its citizens. However, with the lack of substantial details and an outlined plan, the committee found it necessary to postpone the budget approval. The hold on the budget will stay in place until a detailed, transparent plan is presented by the concerned authorities. As citizens await more information, the delay raises questions about the government's preparedness and transparency in managing such a significant financial initiative. It remains to be seen how quickly the authorities will respond to the committee’s call for more detailed information. TOP Picture courtesy: The Government Public Relations Department -- 2024-06-27 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Police Commission Votes to Remove 'Big Joke' from Service Deputy Police Chief Pol Gen Surachate Hakparn. File photo: Thai Rath In a decisive move, the Police Commission unanimously voted, 12-0, to approve the dismissal of Deputy Police Chief Pol Gen Surachate Hakparn. This endorsement follows Acting National Police Chief Pol Gen Kitrat Phanphet's contentious removal order. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330830-police-commission-votes-to-remove-big-joke-from-service/

In a decisive move, the Police Commission unanimously voted, 12-0, to approve the dismissal of Deputy Police Chief Pol Gen Surachate Hakparn. This endorsement follows Acting National Police Chief Pol Gen Kitrat Phanphet's contentious removal order. The heated discussion lasted two hours, ignited by the Council of State, the government’s legal advisor, which had questioned the legitimacy of Surachate’s dismissal. Yesterday, Surachate appealed to the recently-reinstated National Police Chief Pol Gen Torsak Sukvimol to overturn the April 18th dismissal order. This order accused him of colluding in a money laundering scheme linked to the BNK Master online gambling network. On the same day, Pol Gen Kitrat had both transferred Surachate back to the Royal Thai Police from the Prime Minister’s Office and then issued the dismissal. This back-and-forth stemmed from conflicts between Surachate and Torsak, which had initially led to their transfer by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin in March. Emerging from today’s meeting, the Prime Minister indicated that the Police Commission Secretary-General would provide a detailed briefing. Surachate, holding his ground, has vowed to fight for reinstatement as deputy police chief - a position crucial for his ascension to police chief, given his seniority. He has also threatened legal action against key figures, including the Prime Minister, Pol Gen Kitrat, Pol Gen Torsak, and retired Deputy Police Chief Pol Gen Winai Thongsong if his reinstatement is not achieved. The fallout from today’s decision will undoubtedly continue to ripple through the police department, promising further developments in this high-stakes administrative and legal battle. TOP: Deputy Police Chief Pol Gen Surachate Hakparn. File photo: Thai Rath -- 2024-06-27 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 27 June 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1330829-thailand-live-thursday-27-june-2024/

Pattaya ladyboy tricks woman into prostitution with fake debt claim Photo via KhaoSod A Thai ladyboy and her gang members tricked a woman in Pattaya into prostitution, claiming she had a 120,000 baht debt and had to sell sex to repay it. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330798-pattaya-ladyboy-tricks-woman-into-prostitution-with-fake-debt-claim/

A Thai hotel owner took to social media to expose the behaviour of a foreign man who stole a key to her hotel in Chon Buri and stayed there overnight without permission or payment. Foreigner’s key theft at Chon Buri hotel unlocks social media storm Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330797-foreigner’s-key-theft-at-chon-buri-hotel-unlocks-social-media-storm-video/ Photo via Channel 7

Hair-raising arrest in Koh Pha Ngan: Swiss stylist snips rules by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Police apprehended a 51 year old Swiss hairstylist in Koh Pha Ngan for operating a barbershop without proper authorisation, challenging the local police’s ability to detain him. He was arrested at Oliver Twist Hair in Ban Tai, Koh Pha Ngan, on charges of working illegally in Thailand. The arrest took place after Police Lieutenant General Saksira Pueak-am, Commander of the Tourist Police, ordered Police Lieutenant Colonel Winit Boonchit and a team of Koh Pha Ngan Tourist Police, in collaboration with local administrative officials, to investigate the matter. The police had received reports of a foreign national unlawfully working as a barber, a profession reserved for Thai citizens. Further investigation on social media, specifically on www.facebook.com, revealed a fan page for Oliver Twist Hair, advertising hair-cutting and styling services by Oliver Ehrat. Customers could book appointments through the WhatsApp application. During questioning, Oliver admitted that while he held a permit to work as a Managing Director of Oliver Twist Art Co., Ltd., he had been working as a hairstylist at Oliver Twist Hair, which had been operating for nine years. The charges for haircuts ranged from 500 baht (US$14) to approximately 4,000 baht (US$110), depending on the style, reported KhaoSod. The police informed Oliver of the charges. “You are charged with being a foreign national working outside the scope of your permitted occupation (hairstylist).” Following this, he was taken to Koh Pha Ngan Police Station for legal proceedings. In related news, Royal Thai Immigration officers, along with relevant agencies, conducted a search operation at a factory in Krathum Baen, Samut Sakhon, following a report from the Damrongdhama Centre about a significant number of illegal immigrant labourers. The operation led to the discovery of over 72 illegal immigrants working at the site. Among the discovered workers, 45 had no legal documentation or work permits, while 27 Burmese workers had some documentation but lacked work permits. The immigrants admitted to working illegally at the factory and disclosed that they were paid 363 baht (US$10) daily in cash. They revealed that they had been employed there for one month. Full story: The Thaiger 2024-06-26 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Minor earthquake in Phang Nga prompts safety inspections by Puntid Tantivangphaisa Photo courtesy of KhaoSod An earthquake with a magnitude of 2.2 struck the Bang Toei area in Phang Nga Province, prompting officials to inspect for potential damage. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330750-minor-earthquake-in-phang-nga-prompts-safety-inspections/

An earthquake with a magnitude of 2.2 struck the Bang Toei area in Phang Nga Province, prompting officials to inspect for potential damage. It was confirmed that an earthquake occurred in Bang Toei, Mueang District, Phang Nga Province. The incident occurred in the early hours of today, June 26, as reported by the Earthquake Surveillance Division of the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD). The TMD reported that the earthquake was recorded at 2.55am, with a magnitude of 2.2 and a depth of 3 kilometres at coordinates (8.49°N, 98.56°E). At this time, there have been no reports of damage or injuries resulting from the tremor. Officials are monitoring the situation and will provide updates if any new information arises. The earthquake has raised concerns among residents, although initial assessments suggest that the impact was minimal. Rescue teams are on high alert and have been dispatched to the affected area to ensure public safety and assess any structural damage that may have occurred. “We felt a slight shake, but it was over quickly. We’re relieved that it wasn’t more serious.” Earthquakes of this magnitude are relatively common in the region, though they rarely cause significant damage. However, residents are always advised to stay informed and prepared for potential aftershocks. The TMD continues to monitor seismic activity closely to provide timely warnings and updates, reported KhaoSod. An official from the Earthquake Surveillance Division issued a statement. “Our priority is to ensure the safety of the residents. We are conducting thorough inspections and will keep the public informed of any developments.” In related news, despite Taiwan experiencing its most significant earthquake in a quarter of a century and a series of tremors in Japan, Thai tourists were undeterred and continued their planned holidays during the Songkran period. In other news, a powerful land earthquake of magnitude 7.0 struck China on January 23, causing tremors felt across four countries, followed by 17 aftershocks ranging from magnitudes 4.1 to 5.8. by Puntid Tantivangphaisa Photo courtesy of KhaoSod -- 2024-06-26 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Swiss Barber Arrested for Illegal Work and Taunting Thai Police Picture courtesy: Khaosod.co.th In an audacious and unexpected turn of events, a Swiss barber named Oliver E. was apprehended by Thai authorities on Koh Phangan Island. He had been operating a barbershop and taking jobs from locals while openly challenging the police to "catch me if you can." Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330747-swiss-barber-arrested-for-illegal-work-and-taunting-thai-police/