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Udon Thani Karaoke Bar Raided for Human Trafficking Picture courtesy: Khaosod Authorities in Udon Thani conducted a late-night raid on a popular karaoke bar on June 20, revealing an underage human trafficking ring. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330314-udon-thani-karaoke-bar-raided-for-human-trafficking/

Authorities in Udon Thani conducted a late-night raid on a popular karaoke bar on June 20, revealing an underage human trafficking ring. The operation, led by Governor Wanchai Kongkasem and district chief Vimol Surasen, targeted a venue in the bustling Sampanmitr area, known for catering to tourists and foreign patrons. During the raid, officials discovered ten women working at the establishment, including three underage girls: two aged 16, and one aged 18, who had been working there since she was 16. These young women primarily served foreign customers, and the venue lacked the proper operational licence required under the 1966 Service Place Act. Authorities uncovered a ledger containing customer names and a significant number of unused condoms. The bar also kept detailed income records and customer lists, further implicating it in illicit activities. Given that the establishment employed minors for sexual services, it was marked as a significant case of human trafficking. The underage girls were escorted for further interviews and screenings by a multidisciplinary team before being sent to a children’s shelter for psychological rehabilitation. The police filed charges against the bar for human trafficking involving the sexual exploitation of minors, operating without a licence, and violating orders from the National Council for Peace and Order regarding service establishments. Investigations confirmed the establishment acted as a front for a service place exploiting minors. Many of the staff came from troubled backgrounds, such as families facing divorce or financial difficulties, which led them into this situation. The bar’s clientele mainly consisted of middle-aged Thai men and foreign tourists. Authorities urge the public to report signs of human trafficking immediately. Those with information can contact the Rights Protection Foundation or the Damrongtham Centre at district, provincial, or Ministry of Interior levels via the hotline 1567. This case highlights the ongoing need for vigilance and cooperation to combat human trafficking and protect vulnerable individuals. Picture courtesy: Khaosod -- 2024-06-21 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Popular Hua Hin resident Lizzy Ginsel passes away By Online Reporter Swiss expatriate Lizzy Ginsel, a beloved and prominent figure in the Hua Hin community, passed away at Hua Hin Hospital on Thursday morning (June 20). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330312-popular-hua-hin-resident-lizzy-ginsel-passes-away/

Swiss expatriate Lizzy Ginsel, a beloved and prominent figure in the Hua Hin community, passed away at Hua Hin Hospital on Thursday morning (June 20). Known for her vibrant personality and philanthropic spirit, Lizzy made a significant impact through her fundraising activities and support for various charitable causes, including the Rotary Club of Royal Hua Hin. Lizzy was the long-time organizer of the Multi-Culti Club (MCC) and managed an email newsletter that kept residents informed about local events. Her dedication to the community extended to education, where she played a crucial role in securing scholarships for Dee Dee Kosin and Kwanthip Phutdee at Stamford International University. By Online Reporter Full story: HUA HIN TODAY 2024-06-21 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Summer solstice brings longest day and shortest night tomorrow by Ryan Turner Image: Freepik The summer solstice tomorrow will mark the longest daylight period of the year and the shortest night. The sun is expected to rise at around 5.51am, remaining visible for approximately 12 hours and 56 minutes. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330311-summer-solstice-brings-longest-day-and-shortest-night-tomorrow/

The summer solstice tomorrow will mark the longest daylight period of the year and the shortest night. The sun is expected to rise at around 5.51am, remaining visible for approximately 12 hours and 56 minutes. The National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (NARIT), under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation, reported that the summer solstice marks the day when the sun reaches its highest point in the sky at noon. This phenomenon occurs annually, leading to the longest day and shortest night of the year. The sun will rise in the northeast and set in the northwest, indicating the official start of summer for the Northern Hemisphere and winter for the Southern Hemisphere. From March, the sun has been gradually moving northward and will reach its peak northern position tomorrow. This movement causes the sun to rise and set at its most extreme northern points, resulting in prolonged daylight. In Thailand, the sun will rise at approximately 5.51am and set around 6.47pm, giving a total of 12 hours and 56 minutes of daylight in Bangkok. Director of the Academic Services and Astronomy Communication Center at NARIT, Supharerk Khaharanon clarified that the varying lengths of day and night are due to the Earth’s axial tilt of 23.5 degrees relative to its orbit around the sun. This tilt causes different parts of the Earth to receive varying amounts of sunlight throughout the year, leading to the changing seasons. The next significant astronomical event related to the sun’s position will be the autumnal equinox, which occurs on September 22 this year, where the sun will rise exactly in the east and set exactly in the west, resulting in equal lengths of day and night. This marks the transition into autumn for the Northern Hemisphere and spring for the Southern Hemisphere, reported KhaoSod. These celestial events not only signify the changing seasons but also remind us of the larger cosmic rhythms that govern our planet. by Ryan Turner Image: Freepik Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-21 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Russian Man Steals 15,000 Baht and Phone in Phuket Bar Heist Picture courtesy: Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ A Thai woman issued a warning to locals after a Russian man stole her bag, containing 15,000 baht in cash and a mobile phone, from a bar in Phuket's Karon neighbourhood on Wednesday. The incident has sparked online debates about the visa-free policy for foreign visitors. Fullstory: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330310-russian-man-steals-15000-baht-and-phone-in-phuket-bar-heist/

Picture courtesy: Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ A Thai woman issued a warning to locals after a Russian man stole her bag, containing 15,000 baht in cash and a mobile phone, from a bar in Phuket's Karon neighbourhood on Wednesday. The incident has sparked online debates about the visa-free policy for foreign visitors. The victim, who works at the bar, recounted the incident to Phuket Times yesterday, stating she had briefly left her bag at the counter to buy food from a nearby stall. Upon returning, she discovered her bag missing. CCTV footage later revealed that a Russian man had taken the bag and swiftly exited the bar. The footage indicated that the man arrived at the bar with his girlfriend, although he executed the theft alone. The victim expressed uncertainty whether his girlfriend was aware of the crime. “I would like to issue a warning to others. Don’t be reckless and leave anything behind. You cannot trust anyone, especially foreigners,” the woman remarked during her interview with the media. Public Outcry Over Visa-Free Policy The theft quickly stirred public sentiment online, with many Thai netizens criticising the visa-free policy that allows foreigners to enter Thailand easily. Commenters highlighted various issues, from public indecency to thefts involving tourists. “Be careful with Chinese and Indian tourists as well,” one user warned, while another commented, “Foreign criminals come to Thailand easily under this government.” Other users expressed fears of rising crime rates, suggesting more stringent measures for foreign visitors. Some even called for a specialised prison for foreign criminals, citing an influx of thefts and misdemeanors. Divided Opinions While many supported stricter policies, others blamed the victim for her carelessness. Some argued against cancelling the visa-free policy, noting that it would adversely affect tourism businesses already struggling with fewer visitors. Related Incidents The issue of foreigner-related crime in Thailand is not isolated. In another recent instance, a Thai woman reported her motorcycle theft by a foreigner in Chalong district, while earlier in June, another foreigner in Pattaya was apprehended for a similar incident. In April, two foreign women were caught stealing from a souvenir shop in Krabi, but no further details on their arrest have been disclosed. The recent spike in crimes has prompted locals to call for better security measures and more rigorous evaluations of foreign visitors entering the country. -- 2024-06-21 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Student Narrowly Escapes Sexual Assault Outside Residence Picture courtesy: Khaosod A young female student narrowly avoided an attempted sexual assault near her residence yesterday afternoon. Her quick thinking and cries for help thwarted the assailant, who remains at large. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330309-student-narrowly-escapes-sexual-assault-outside-residence/

A young female student narrowly avoided an attempted sexual assault near her residence yesterday afternoon. Her quick thinking and cries for help thwarted the assailant, who remains at large. The incident took place in Samut Prakan, on Bang Sao Thong Road, and was captured by CCTV cameras. The video footage showed A, a third-year secondary school student, returning home around 4 pm. As she walked toward her apartment building after taking a motorcycle taxi from school, an unknown man followed her. The footage reveals the suspect, riding a motorcycle, following A into the alley leading to her building. He then parked at the front and quickly ascended the stairs to her floor. A’s typical after-school routine involves returning home alone until her parents finish work. Unaware of being followed, she unlocked her door when the attacker made his move. He attempted to push her inside and groped her, demanding entry. However, A bravely resisted and screamed for help, causing the assailant to flee. Her courageous actions helped her narrowly escape the sexual assault attempt. A's father, at work during the incident, rushed home upon receiving a frantic call from his daughter. Upon arrival, he found her deeply shaken but uninjured, surrounded by supportive neighbours. They promptly filed a complaint at Bang Sao Thong Police Station. Authorities are now actively searching for the suspect, described as a significant threat to public safety. The police are using CCTV footage, which provides clear images of the attacker’s face, a distinctive tattoo on his left arm, and the red motorcycle with a yellow license plate he was riding. A’s father has urged for swift police action to prevent further danger to the community. The investigation continues as police work to gather more evidence and apprehend the suspect. TOP Picture courtesy: Khaosod -- 2024-06-21 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Monk gone rogue: Novice vanishes from temple, reappears briefly by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Sanook A 16 year old novice monk who went missing from a temple in Kanchanaburi, was found in Nonthaburi but has since disappeared again, leaving only his sash and a note behind. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330308-monk-gone-rogue-novice-vanishes-from-temple-reappears-briefly/

A 16 year old novice monk who went missing from a temple in Kanchanaburi, was found in Nonthaburi but has since disappeared again, leaving only his sash and a note behind. Yesterday, June 20, at Bang Bua Thong Police Station in Nonthaburi, Somchit, the abbot of Wiakakee Temple in Sangkhla Buri, Kanchanaburi, and Wichai Saisangsin, the village headman, travelled from Sangkhla Buri to Bang Bua Thong after Siwa’s parents reported their son’s disappearance on June 19. The novice monk, Siwa, who is of Karen ethnicity, was initially located at the Bang Bua Thong Police Station. However, upon their arrival, they found only his robe and sash on the station’s counter, along with a note. “I’m going back to the temple if the knee heals. My name is Siwa, I’m 16 years old.” Somchit, the abbot, explained that Siwa, who has been a novice for over a year, is a quiet individual who seldom interacts with others. “He is a Karen and struggles with speaking clearly. He has been learning to write Thai and has been at the temple with no issues until now. He rarely talks and avoids eye contact, even with me. His parents mentioned that he might have psychological issues, but this is the first time he has wandered so far from the temple.” Novice found The abbot recounted that earlier in the morning, a monk from Wat Lad Pladuk informed him that a novice had been found at Bang Bua Thong Police Station. Village headman Wichai and Somchit coordinated to retrieve Siwa, who had been reported wandering on Bang Bua Thong-Suphanburi Road by locals. Due to the novice’s lack of identification and incoherent speech, locals suspected he might be an impostor monk and contacted the police. Police confirmed Siwa’s legitimacy and brought him to the station, where his behaviour, such as wandering around in his robe, prompted the request to change into casual clothes provided by the officers. By approximately 4.30pm, when Somchit and Wichai arrived at the police station, Siwa had disappeared again. They found only his sash and a note, which Somchit identified as Siwa’s handwriting. “I tried calling him, but he didn’t answer and then turned off his phone. I’m worried about his well-being since he cannot communicate well and barely writes in Thai. “If we don’t find him today, we’ll return to Kanchanaburi and wait for the police to contact us.” Village headman Wichai corroborated the abbot’s account, mentioning that Siwa had a history of wandering but had never travelled as far as this time, reported Sanook. “Siwa’s parents informed me of his disappearance, and we have been helping search for him. He has a history of mental health issues and previously wandered off but never this far. “We learned he was spotted in Nonthaburi, so we came to get him. However, upon arrival, he was already gone. The police are currently checking CCTV footage. If we don’t find him today, we’ll head back as I have other responsibilities. Anyone who sees Siwa, please contact us as his parents are very concerned.” Picture of the note the novice monk left with his sash courtesy of Sanook by Bob Scott TOP Picture courtesy of Sanook Full story: The Thaiger 2024-06-21 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

UPDATE: Belgian tourist dies after horrific attack by German in Hua Hin by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of HLN A 64 year old Belgian tourist tragically succumbed to severe injuries following a brutal assault in Hua Hin in early April. The attack left him with a fractured skull and 10 broken bones, leading to a coma from which he never awoke. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330301-belgian-tourist-dies-after-brutal-attack-in-hua-hin/?do=findComment&comment=19006892

Belgian tourist dies after horrific attack by German in Hua Hin by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of HLN A 64 year old Belgian tourist tragically succumbed to severe injuries following a brutal assault in Hua Hin in early April. The attack left him with a fractured skull and 10 broken bones, leading to a coma from which he never awoke. Jan Valkenborg was holidaying with his Thai girlfriend in the resort town when he was ambushed. He was smoking a cigarette on the pavement when a man struck him from behind, continuing the vicious assault even after he fell. The assailant, later identified as a German national with a criminal record and ties to a local fight club, also attacked a British man the same night. Danny Lemmens, Valkenborg’s close friend, remained by his side until he passed away on Monday, June 17. Lemmens, who travelled to Thailand to assist with Valkenborg’s care, recounted the harrowing ordeal. “It was a long day, waiting for 13 hours during his surgery, and the following days were sleepless ones as I stayed in his hotel room, surrounded by his belongings while he fought for his life in the hospital.” Valkenborg underwent a gruelling 13-hour surgery to address multiple skull fractures. Although the operation was successful, doctors estimated a recovery period of three to eight months, with an uncertain prognosis. Despite medical interventions, including a significant operation on his birthday, his condition worsened, leading to epileptic seizures. Doctors eventually concluded he would never fully recover. The German attacker roamed the area for hours after the assault before being apprehended by police. Lemmens, who met Valkenborg through their mutual involvement with the Vlaams Belang political party, remembered him as a helpful individual with a wide circle of friends. “Jan was a man with a heart of gold. He didn’t deserve this.” Valkenborg was initially treated at a hospital in Hua Hin before being transferred to Bangkok for further operations and eventually repatriated to Gasthuisberg Hospital in Leuven, Belgium. His private funeral will be held tomorrow, June 22, with an opportunity for friends and family to pay their respects today at Funerarium Theunissen in Zichen-Zussen-Bolder, reported Hua Hin Today and ASEAN NOW. Full story: The Thaiger 2024-06-21 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Stormy forecast: Extreme rain and thunderstorms in 42 provinces by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) issued another severe weather warning for 42 provinces nationwide, forecasting heavy rainfall and thunderstorms. Bangkok is expected to experience significant rain coverage at 70%, with authorities urging caution for flash floods and forest runoff. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330307-stormy-forecast-extreme-rain-and-thunderstorms-in-42-provinces/

The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) issued another severe weather warning for 42 provinces nationwide, forecasting heavy rainfall and thunderstorms. Bangkok is expected to experience significant rain coverage at 70%, with authorities urging caution for flash floods and forest runoff. The TMD released a 24-hour weather forecast today, highlighting the strengthening southwest monsoon covering the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand. A low-pressure area over northern Vietnam and the central South China Sea is also influencing the weather. The forecast predicts increased rainfall across Thailand, particularly in the northeastern and central regions, including Bangkok and its vicinity. Eastern and western southern regions face heavy rainfall in some areas. Residents in these regions are advised to be vigilant against potential hazards from heavy to extreme rain and accumulated rainfall, which could cause sudden flooding and forest runoff, especially in foothill areas near waterways and low-lying regions. Mariners in the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand are warned of strong winds and high waves. The upper Andaman Sea is expected to see waves around 2 metres high, with higher waves in areas experiencing thunderstorms. The lower Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand will have waves ranging from one to two metres, with higher waves in thunderstorm areas. Sailors are advised to navigate with caution and avoid areas with thunderstorms. Regional forecasts The northern region will experience thunderstorms in 40% of the area, mainly in Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phayao, Nan, Tak, Kamphaeng Phet, Phitsanulok, and Phetchabun provinces. Temperatures will range from 24 to 27 degrees Celcius for the lowest and 34 to 37°C for the highest, with southwesterly winds at 10 to 20 km/h. The northeastern region is expected to see thunderstorms in 60% of the area, with heavy rain in some places, including Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Mukdahan, Amnat Charoen, Buriram, Surin, Sisaket, and Ubon Ratchathani provinces. Temperatures will range from 25 to 28°C at the lowest and 35 to 38°C at the highest, with southwesterly winds at 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. The central region will have thunderstorms in 60% of the area, with heavy rain in some areas, particularly in Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Nakhon Pathom, Samut Songkhram, and Samut Sakhon provinces. Temperatures will range from 24 to 27°C for the lowest and 35 to 37°C for the highest, with southwesterly winds at 10 to 25 km/h. The eastern region is forecasted to experience thunderstorms in 70% of the area, with very heavy rain in some places, including Nakhon Nayok, Chachoengsao, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat provinces. Temperatures will range from 25 to 29°C for the lowest and 30 to 36°C for the highest, with southwesterly winds at 15 to 35 km/h. The sea will have waves between 1 to 2 metres with higher waves in thunderstorm areas. The southern region (eastern coast) will see thunderstorms in 40% of the area, mainly in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, and Yala provinces. Temperatures will range from 24 to 27°C for the lowest and 32 to 35°C for the highest, with southwesterly winds at 15 to 35 km/h. The sea will have waves between 1 to 2 metres, with higher waves in thunderstorm areas. The southern region (western coast) will experience thunderstorms in 70% of the area, with very heavy rain in some areas, particularly in Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, Krabi, Trang, and Satun provinces. Temperatures will range from 24 to 25°C for the lowest and 28 to 31°C for the highest. Extreme winds From Phuket upwards, winds will be southwesterly at 20 to 35 km/h, with waves around two metres high and higher in thunderstorm areas. From Krabi downwards, with westerly winds at 15 to 35 km/h, with waves between 1 to 2 metres and higher in thunderstorm areas. Bangkok and its vicinity will have thunderstorms in 70% of the area, with heavy rain in some areas. Temperatures will range from 26 to 28°C for the lowest and 34 to 37°C for the highest, with southwesterly winds at 10 to 25 km/h. by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-21 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

UPDATE: Belgian man dies from injuries sustained in brutal and unprovoked attack in Hua Hin By Online Reporter A Belgian man who was gravely injured in a brutal attack in Hua Hin in April has died from his injuries, it has been announced. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330301-belgian-tourist-dies-after-brutal-attack-in-hua-hin/?do=findComment&comment=19006856

Belgian man dies from injuries sustained in brutal and unprovoked attack in Hua Hin By Online Reporter A Belgian man who was gravely injured in a brutal attack in Hua Hin in April has died from his injuries, it has been announced. Hua Hin Today first reported on the incident, which saw then 63-year-old Jan Valkenborg from Riemst, Limburg province, attacked in an unprovoked assault. Valkenborg was in Hua Hin when he was assaulted by a German national. The attacker, who had a criminal record and was a member of a fight club, also assaulted another person that same evening. Hua Hin Today understands that Hua Hin Police did launch an initial investigation into the incident. However, the whereabouts and legal status of the attacker is not known. Full story: HUA HIN TODAY 2024-06-21 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Friends Turn Foes: Temple Brawl Leaves Two Critically Injured Picture courtesy: Pattaya Mail A brawl left two friends critically injured in a surreal spectacle opposite the serene Huai Yai Temple in East Pattaya. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330304-friends-turn-foes-temple-brawl-leaves-two-critically-injured/

A brawl left two friends critically injured in a surreal spectacle opposite the serene Huai Yai Temple in East Pattaya. On Tuesday, June 18, a playful banter between two friends morphed into a shocking, violent duel. Weerayut Chomthalak, 36, was found at the scene with a severe head injury, bleeding profusely and possibly under the influence. His alleged assailant, 58-year-old Thongchai Tiendaeng, was also injured, noticeably limping on his right leg. The surreal clash erupted when Thongchai, armed with a knife, faced off against Weerayut, who wielded a baseball bat. What began as playful jests escalated into a violent confrontation, drawing a bewildered crowd. Eyewitnesses quickly called emergency services, their frantic calls punctuating the farcical yet tragic scene. Thongchai was detained by a bystander until the police arrived. He managed to recount his side of the story, claiming he was provoked by Weerayut’s drunken antics. In contrast, Weerayut, barely coherent, insisted his jesting had unintentionally sparked Thongchai’s fury. The drama was further unravelled through CCTV footage, as Police Lieutenant Worawut Kittisirivoranan, Deputy Inspector of Huai Yai Police Station, assured that justice would be served for both participants in the scuffle, reported Pattaya Mail. The incident captivated social media, sparking intense debate. It's a stark reminder of how quickly light-hearted moments between friends can spiral into violence. The unusual setting, so close to the peaceful Huai Yai Temple, added a layer of irony to the day's events. As the community deals with what happened, officials are emphasizing the need to stay calm and reminding everyone that even innocent actions can go wrong. This strange fight is a warning about how easily friendships can break and how quickly jokes can turn into anger. Picture courtesy: Pattaya Mail -- 2024-06-21 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Defence Ministry Unveils Clear Salary Guidelines Amid Conscription Scandal Picture courtesy: Thai Army PR Center To quell public outrage, the Defence Ministry unveiled comprehensive guidelines detailing what can and cannot be deducted from conscripts’ salaries. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330303-defence-ministry-unveils-clear-salary-guidelines-amid-conscription-scandal/

To quell public outrage, the Defence Ministry unveiled comprehensive guidelines detailing what can and cannot be deducted from conscripts’ salaries. The move comes in the wake of a recent scandal involving dubious salary deductions by the 22nd Logistics and Supports Battalion. The new guidelines, which were released on the ministry’s website today, are aimed at bringing clarity to permissible deductions from the 11,000 baht monthly salary of conscripts. This announcement follows last week’s uproar over reports that 990 baht was deducted from conscripts’ salaries for septic tank cleaning expenses—a claim that stirred significant public discomfort. Although the Royal Thai Army (RTA) initially denied these deductions were for septic tank maintenance, it admitted that such actions had been under consideration. As a response, the involved battalion commander was reassigned to an inactive position. The new policies are structured into three clear categories: deductions without consent, deductions with consent, and prohibited deductions. Permissible, non-consensual deductions include a 70 baht daily charge for meals and personal items that conscripts cannot procure on their own. Items like laundry services and uniform repairs can only be deducted with the conscripts' explicit consent. Significantly, deductions for infrastructure costs, such as septic tank cleaning and Wi-Fi services, are now explicitly banned. Equally important, the costs of training items like backpacks, essential health supplies like Covid-19 tests, flu masks, and hand sanitiser are also barred from being deducted. Adding another layer of protection, the Defence Ministry specified that life insurance premiums should be covered by military business profits, not conscripts’ salaries. Commanders who overcharge conscripts will face penalties, as outlined in the guidelines. The move has been described as a significant step towards transparency, but it also highlights the role of public scrutiny in affecting change. The Defence Ministry hopes these new measures will bring fairness and clarity to conscript salaries, ensuring they receive what they rightfully earn. Picture courtesy: Thai Army PR Center -- 2024-06-21 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Phuket Named Thailand's Most Advanced Tech Province File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Phuket has officially been recognised as Thailand's leading province in technological advancements, clinching the top spot among 23 smart provinces in the latest report by the Digital Economy Promotion Agency (DEPA). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330302-phuket-named-thailands-most-advanced-tech-province/

File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Phuket has officially been recognised as Thailand's leading province in technological advancements, clinching the top spot among 23 smart provinces in the latest report by the Digital Economy Promotion Agency (DEPA). The report, part of the Thailand Smart City Competitiveness Index (TSCCI) 2023, evaluates the performance of smart cities across the country, offering insights into the progress and future potential of urban areas embracing technology. The rankings were announced by DEPA’s Smart Cities Office and assessed 30 smart cities across 23 provinces. DEPA President Nuttapon Nimmanphatcharin disclosed the results, highlighting the key performers in both city-based and province-based categories. In the city-based category, Wangchan Valley in Rayong scored an impressive 83.55%, securing its place as the top city. Following closely were Bangkok's Samyan Smart City with 79.02% and Khlong Phadung Krungkasem with 74.55%. As for the province-based rankings, Phuket dominated with a score of 83.6%, while Chachoengsao and Khon Kaen followed with scores of 76.78% and 53.81%, respectively. Nuttapon clarified that the scores were determined by evaluating five key factors: the vision and character of smart cities, the development of physical and digital infrastructure, information network and IT security development, smart city services, and strategies for sustainable investments and management. The competitiveness index aims to motivate other provinces to step up their smart city initiatives. DEPA plans to expand these initiatives to 105 towns across 77 provinces by 2027. In related news, Mueang Thong Thani is set to be transformed into a smart city district by Bangkok Land, a Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET)-listed company. This project will include establishing a new seafood and fruit centre to provide affordable goods to draw more tourists to Nonthaburi. The development coincides with the launch of the Pink Line monorail service, scheduled to begin operations next year. With these advancements, Thailand is on a promising path toward becoming a leading nation in smart city developments, fostering innovation and sustainability across its urban landscapes. TOP: File photo courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-06-21 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Belgian Tourist Dies After Brutal Attack in Hua Hin © RR Jan Valkenborg, a 64-year-old Belgian from Millen, has tragically died after sustaining severe injuries from an assault in Hua Hin, Thailand, in early April. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330301-belgian-tourist-dies-after-brutal-attack-in-hua-hin/