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Bangkok monk faces backlash for flaunting lavish lifestyle by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of Facebook A prominent Facebook page shared a post featuring a well-known Bangkok monk flaunting a luxurious lifestyle, using two high-end mobile phones and purchasing a diamond bracelet worth 185,000 baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330241-bangkok-monk-faces-backlash-for-flaunting-lavish-lifestyle/

A prominent Facebook page shared a post featuring a well-known Bangkok monk flaunting a luxurious lifestyle, using two high-end mobile phones and purchasing a diamond bracelet worth 185,000 baht. Just another day and another story of a monk in Thailand subverting the simple Buddhist teachings of discipline, simplicity, and mindfulness. The post, shared yesterday, highlights the extravagant behaviours of the monk, who serves as a secretary at a famous temple in central Bangkok. Details of the monk’s indulgences include using two expensive mobile phones simultaneously and dining at a shabu restaurant. The post also shows the monk enjoying drinks at a popular coffee shop and completing bank transactions involving tens of thousands of baht, captioning the moments with comments such as ‘feeling lonely.’ The most controversial part of the post, however, is an image of a receipt showing the purchase of a Cartier diamond bracelet for 185,000 baht. The receipt reveals that the monk used a credit card to buy the luxurious item, which has sparked significant criticism for its perceived impropriety. According to Cartier’s official website, the bracelet in question appears to be a small Juste un Clou model in rose gold, adorned with 20 brilliant-cut diamonds. This matches the details on the receipt, confirming the authenticity of the costly purchase. The post has ignited widespread discussion online, with many questioning the appropriateness of such lavish spending by a monk. Critics argue that the monk’s actions are contradictory to the principles of modesty and humility traditionally associated with monastic life. Some commentators criticised the monk’s behaviour, stating that embracing such luxuries contradicts the teachings of Buddha, and adding that monks should instead set an example of simplicity and spirituality. The controversy also prompted discussions about the broader issue of materialism within the monastic community. Despite the backlash, some argue that the monk’s expenditures should not be subjected to public scrutiny. They contend that everyone, including monks, has the right to privacy and personal choice. This incident has undoubtedly stirred a significant debate about the intersection of religious life and material wealth. It remains to be seen how the temple and religious authorities will respond to the growing calls for action. by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of Facebook Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Taxi Driver Found Dead Outside Ex-Wife’s Bangkok Apartment Picture courtesy: CK news A 60-year-old Thai taxi driver was found dead in his car parked outside his ex-wife’s apartment in the Bang Bon district of Bangkok on Tuesday night. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330229-thai-taxi-driver-found-dead-outside-ex-wife’s-bangkok-apartment/

A 60-year-old Thai taxi driver was found dead in his car parked outside his ex-wife’s apartment in the Bang Bon district of Bangkok on Tuesday night. The deceased, identified as Ittipat, was discovered by his ex-wife, Surumpa, around 10 PM on June 18. Ittipat’s body was slumped in the passenger seat of his taxi. Preliminary police assessments indicated that Ittipat had been dead for at least five to six hours. Surumpa, 43, revealed that although she and Ittipat divorced three years ago, he continued to visit their daughter frequently. Recently, tensions escalated when Ittipat posted a threatening message on Facebook directed at Surumpa’s new boyfriend, Kriangkrai, who also lived with her and their daughter. The ominous post read, “Kriangkrai, don’t you dare come to my daughter’s room again. I will kill you!” Fearing for her boyfriend’s safety, Surumpa rushed home. Upon arriving around 8 PM, she noticed Ittipat’s car in the car park. Expecting a confrontation, she was shocked to find him unresponsive and quickly phoned the authorities. Police reviewed security footage from the apartment complex, discovering that Ittipat had arrived around 4 AM on June 17. Footage showed him carrying an unknown item to his daughter's room before descending back to his vehicle. Subsequent footage indicated that Ittipat had spent the day drinking alcohol in the car park. Around 4 PM, he entered his car, not starting the engine or opening the windows, which led officers to speculate that he might have died due to suffocation. An investigation is ongoing, with Ittipat’s body undergoing an autopsy at Siriraj Hospital to determine the precise cause of death. Picture courtesy: CK news -- 2024-06-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Eight foreign tourists narrowly escaped drowning in Phuket’s treacherous seas yesterday after ignoring warning signs on the beaches. In the first harrowing incident, two Indian couples defied the red flag flying on Karon Beach and ventured into the turbulent waters. Witnesses reported the tourists quickly found themselves overwhelmed by the powerful waves and wind, unable to swim back to shore. Desperate cries for help echoed across the beach. Swiftly responding to the emergency, lifeguards launched a speedboat and managed to rescue the stranded couples, bringing them safely back to shore. The exhausted tourists received first aid on the beach before being transported to Chalong District Hospital for further evaluation. Later that afternoon, around 3pm, a similar scenario unfolded at Patong Beach. Four Russian tourists entered the rough seas, disregarding clear warnings about dangerous swimming conditions. They were also swept further from shore as they struggled against the fierce currents. Their frantic calls for help alerted lifeguards, who once again sprang into action. A speedboat rescue mission ensued, and the tourists were safely returned to land. Currently, red Don’t Swim flags are prominently displayed on most of Phuket’s beaches due to hazardous sea conditions and strong winds, reported Thai PBS World. In related news, a Russian man drowned on Sunday, June 16 after swimming in the sea at Surin Beach in Phuket despite a red flag warning about strong waves. Thai lifeguards at Surin Beach called officers from Cherngtalay Police Station after a foreign tourist was pulled unconscious from the water. In other news, a family is mourning the loss of their three year old daughter who drowned in a pond near a childcare centre in Sisaket Province. The family suspects foul play and believes the drowning to be a staged murder. Initial autopsy findings at Sisaket Hospital revealed that the child died from asphyxiation while drowning, with water being aspirated into her lungs, and she had been dead for approximately two hours before being found. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Thai PBS World Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Tourists’ Phuket beach fun turns into life-or-death drama by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Thai PBS World Eight foreign tourists narrowly escaped drowning in Phuket’s treacherous seas yesterday after ignoring warning signs on the beaches. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330227-tourists’-phuket-beach-fun-turns-into-life-or-death-drama/

Thailand Prepares for Casino Boom Amid Economic Hopes Picure courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand is edging closer to legalising large-scale entertainment complexes that include casinos, according to Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat. The final draft of the bill paving the way for these developments is slated for Cabinet review within the next three to four weeks. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330219-thailand-prepares-for-casino-boom-amid-economic-hopes/

Thailand is edging closer to legalising large-scale entertainment complexes that include casinos, according to Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat. The final draft of the bill paving the way for these developments is slated for Cabinet review within the next three to four weeks. Julapun disclosed that 16 government agencies have contributed their insights on the proposed regulation, which will accompany the final draft. This bill, initially drafted by a dedicated House committee, is expected to undergo refinements based on the feedback received. “The casinos will occupy no more than 5% of the space within these complexes, which will also feature hotels and various entertainment facilities,” Julapun explained. The project is seen as a major economic boost, with potential investments estimated between 30 billion and 50 billion baht. Despite the economic advantages, several agencies have called for measures to mitigate the social impact of gambling. Proposed mechanisms aim to shield society from potential negative effects, ensuring responsible operation. After Cabinet approval, the bill will head to the Office of the Council of State for legal vetting before being presented to the House of Representatives. Additionally, a national committee comprising representatives from different agencies will be formed to oversee the project. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has thrown his support behind legalising casinos, arguing that it would allow for better control of gambling and proper tax collection. Currently, Thailand's strict 1935 Gambling Act only permits state lotteries and government-backed horse races. Unregulated online gambling, though not explicitly covered by law, is also rampant. The government’s push for legal casinos is partly aimed at curbing illegal gambling activities, with hopes of raising substantial public funds through regulation and taxation. There are discussions to restrict access to foreigners, akin to Macau’s model in China, the only place where gambling is legally sanctioned. A recent government report suggests that while licenses would be issued for these complexes, operators would need to secure their own funding. The complexes are expected to be situated near major tourist areas, within 100 kilometres of an airport, but not near Phuket. The initiative could generate up to 50,000 jobs, with each complex employing around 10,000 people. Though any new gambling laws will take time to implement, the proposal already enjoys significant backing from business leaders and has strong support from the Prime Minister. Picture courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-06-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Chemical Barrels Unearthed at Sri Thep Waste Plant in Raids Picture courtesy: Aeku Thai Phetchabun police uncovered an alarming situation at an industrial waste treatment plant in Sri Thep district, where barrels filled with chemicals were found buried underground without proper treatment. This discovery may clarify why locals have recently reported a persistent and strong chemical odour. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330218-chemical-barrels-unearthed-at-sri-thep-waste-plant-in-raids/

Phetchabun police uncovered an alarming situation at an industrial waste treatment plant in Sri Thep district, where barrels filled with chemicals were found buried underground without proper treatment. This discovery may clarify why locals have recently reported a persistent and strong chemical odour. The plant, operated by Aek Uthai Co, a company based in Phachi district, Ayutthaya province, was raided yesterday by police, pollution control authorities, and factory standard regulators. The raid was conducted following an order from acting National Police Chief Kitrat Phanphet to investigate previous fires and suspected arson at several chemical storage warehouses. Investigations have revealed connections between these incidents and either Aek Uthai Co or Win Process Co, headquartered in Rayong. Assistant Police Chief Itthipol Atchariyapradit, who participated in the raid, confirmed that documents seized from the Sri Thep plant indicated links between this facility and other industrial sites in Ayutthaya and Nakhon Ratchasima. Additionally, Aek Uthai’s Sri Thep branch office was found to have ties with Win Process in Rayong. Governor Krit Khongmuang of Phetchabun stated that officials had been inundated with complaints from residents about the chemical smell, believed to be originating from Aek Uthai’s plant. The governor noted that some villagers had fallen ill and required medical attention after inhaling the suspected chemical vapours. “The company will likely face charges for possessing hazardous substances without permission, a violation of the Hazardous Substances Act." The plant could lose its operating licence. Governor Krit also mentioned that provincial authorities are advocating for civil lawsuits against the company to ensure affected parties receive compensation. Samples of the chemicals found in the buried barrels, presumed to be toxic waste, have been sent for laboratory analysis. In a statement, Krit emphasised the seriousness of the situation: “This is a grave matter, and we will take all necessary legal actions to ensure the safety and health of our residents.” Police are now focused on the broader implications of this discovery, particularly the potential environmental and health impacts on the local community. The investigation continues, with officials seeking to determine the full extent of the improper chemical disposal and any other illegal activities at the plant. The findings from the lab analysis will be crucial in determining the toxicity levels of the chemicals and the potential harm they pose to the environment and public health. Picture courtesy: Aeku Thai -- 2024-06-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Heavy Rain Warning: Relentless Downpour Forecast for East Picture courtesy: Erik Witsoe, Unsplash via Prachachat Today, the Meteorological Department has issued an urgent heavy rain warning for the eastern provinces of Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat. Residents and travellers have been advised to brace for possible flooding as relentless downpours are anticipated. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330217-heavy-rain-warning-relentless-downpour-forecast-for-east/

Today, the Meteorological Department has issued an urgent heavy rain warning for the eastern provinces of Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat. Residents and travellers have been advised to brace for possible flooding as relentless downpours are anticipated. A powerful southwest monsoon, extending across the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand, combined with a low-pressure system near northern Vietnam and the Gulf of Tonkin, is creating volatile weather conditions. These atmospheric disturbances are expected to bring considerable thunderstorms and heavy rains, particularly in Thailand's eastern and western southern regions. Local authorities have cautioned residents in Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat to prepare for severe weather, highlighting the potential risk of floods due to the forecasted heavy rainfall. Mariners in the upper Andaman Sea are also urged to exercise extreme caution, as waves could surge between 1 to 2 metres, exceeding 2 metres in storm-affected areas. Bangkok will not be spared either, with thunderstorms predicted to cover about 40% of the city's area. Citizens are recommended to carry umbrellas amidst the expected rainy spells. The northern provinces, including Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, and Chiang Rai, will experience thunderstorms affecting roughly 30% of the region, combined with a temperature range of 24 to 36 degrees Celsius. Similar conditions set to unfold in northeastern areas like Nong Khai and Udon Thani, with temperatures hovering between 24 and 38 degrees Celsius. The central provinces, namely Nakhon Sawan and Ayutthaya, are forecasted to witness thunderstorms hitting 30% of the locality. Meanwhile, the western southern region, covering Ranong, Phang Nga, and Phuket, shows a higher downpour probability at 60%, with heavy rain in select areas. Residents throughout the affected regions are advised to stay informed about the latest weather updates and heed any local advisories to ensure safety during these unsettled weather conditions. TOP Picture courtesy: Erik Witsoe, Unsplash via Prachachat -- 2024-06-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Wild Deer Causes Multiple Accidents on Chaiyapruek Road Picture courtesy: Khaosod Last night, a wild deer unexpectedly appeared on Chaiyapruek Road, leading to a series of unfortunate accidents. Police from Chaiyapruek Police Station swiftly reached the scene after reports surfaced about a deer being hit by several cars. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330216-wild-deer-causes-multiple-accidents-on-chaiyapruek-road/

Picture courtesy: Khaosod Last night, a wild deer unexpectedly appeared on Chaiyapruek Road, leading to a series of unfortunate accidents. Police from Chaiyapruek Police Station swiftly reached the scene after reports surfaced about a deer being hit by several cars. At the crash site on Chaiyapruek Road, near a convenience store in front of Bang Phlap Subdistrict Municipality, officers discovered a female deer lying lifeless by the roadside. Nearby were two damaged pickup trucks, highlighting the chaos caused by the deer's sudden intrusion. One vehicle, a white Isuzu with the registration plate 1ขต 5951 Bangkok, had its left front side significantly damaged. The other, a white Toyota Revo with the registration 3 ฒค 6001 Bangkok, had a crushed front bumper stained with blood. Dashcam footage from the damaged Isuzu pickup revealed the deer darting out from an alley beside the convenience store before being struck by the vehicle. It was thrown to the roadside, lay motionless for about 10 minutes, and then attempted to cross again, only to be hit by the refrigerated Toyota pickup. Kanya, the 50-year-old driver of the refrigerated pickup, recounted that she was driving down the bridge when the deer suddenly appeared, causing her to panic. She noted that the deer had already been struck by another vehicle before she collided with it. Witnesses like 59-year-old Lai mentioned the deer had emerged from behind the market and tried to cross the road. It was hit, got up, tried to cross again, and was hit once more. The deer made another attempt, leading to a third fatal collision. Local residents speculated that the deer likely belonged to a house about 1 kilometre away. Police contacted someone claiming to be the caretaker, who confirmed the deer belonged to an employer currently abroad. The deer had escaped around 4pm, despite efforts to locate it and offer a reward. Police are now coordinating with the Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation to verify the legality of the deer's possession, as it is protected under the Wildlife Preservation and Protection Act of 1992. Possession without permission can result in up to four years in prison, a fine up to 40,000 baht (US$1,100), or both. -- 2024-06-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

DP World Bids on Thailand’s Major Land Bridge Project Picture courtesy: Facebook สรยุทธ สุทัศนะจินดา กรรมกรข่าว Dubai-based logistics behemoth DP World has shown keen interest in Thailand’s colossal 1-trillion-baht Land Bridge project, per the Ministry of Transport's announcement. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330214-dp-world-bids-on-thailand’s-major-land-bridge-project/

Dubai-based logistics behemoth DP World has shown keen interest in Thailand’s colossal 1-trillion-baht Land Bridge project, per the Ministry of Transport's announcement. Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, the group chairman and CEO of DP World, is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin tomorrow to explore potential investment avenues in this grand initiative. As the world’s third-largest container port operator, DP World’s involvement could inject significant economic vitality into the project. The Transport Minister, Suriya Jungrungreangkit, disclosed that the discussions would centre around a joint venture for the Land Bridge project, which intends to forge a logistics network linking Chumphon on the Gulf of Thailand to Ranong on the Andaman Sea. Minister Suriya remarked, “It is a delight that a global company like DP World has shown interest in the project.” DP World, established in 2005, boasts an extensive global network featuring logistics, cargo transport, port operations, maritime services, and free trade zones. Handling 70 million container units annually, DP World services about 70,000 ships, representing 10% of the global container traffic, and operates across 82 ports in 40 countries. Suriya emphasised that the forthcoming dialogue underscores the Land Bridge project's substantial investment allure. He expressed optimism that the project would advance under the current administration. If realised, the Land Bridge project could significantly boost the Thai economy, potentially generating up to 1 trillion baht (approximately US$ 27 billion). Furthermore, the Ministry of Transport has recently conducted investor roadshows locally and globally to stir additional interest, as reported by the Bangkok Post. Moreover, the government is pushing forward a bill related to the southern economic corridor, sponsored by the Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning. The Ministry has received the draft and expects it to reach the Cabinet by September. In related developments, Thailand’s land bridge project, aiming to connect the Pacific and Indian Oceans, edges closer to reality, with bidding expected to commence by late next year. Picture courtesy: Facebook สรยุทธ สุทัศนะจินดา กรรมกรข่าว -- 2024-06-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Thursday 20 June 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330213-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-thursday-20-june-2024/

An investigation is underway into police officers with links to three oil-smuggling ships. The ships, carrying 330,000 liters of smuggled oil, were seized and docked at a police pier in Sattahip. They, along with 15 crew members, disappeared last week and were later found off the coast of Malaysia without the fuel. A leaked ‘Line chat’ between marine police and the smugglers' boss implicated a police officer who will now be questioned. A couple who threw acid on a high school student at a restaurant in Buri Ram last year have been sentenced to 35 and 25-years in jail respectively, for attempted murder. The victim required medical treatment for 4 months, both in their 20s the attackers were initially sentenced to death which was reduced to jail time as the victim survived and both admitted their actions. Fire large broke out at an electronic parts company in Rayong yesterday forcing a nearby school to send children home early, Fire crews struggled for hours to bring the blaze under control at the Sun Electronics factory. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin outlined a 3.75-trillion-baht budget bill for the next fiscal year aimed at jump-starting Thailand's economy. The economy is expected to grow between 2.5 and 3.5% next year, with inflation projected at no more than 1.7percent. A Move Forward Party MP warned the government was over borrowing to fund the 10,000 baht digital wallet scheme and may not have funds to handle emergency situations such as flood, drought or another pandemic. Around the region. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Chinese Premier Li Qiang held a ceremony and signed 14 agreements yesterday including Beijing’s backing a rail project that will bridge the east and west coasts Malaysia. Mr Ibrahim said his country is ready to join the Brics group of emerging economies seen to be challenging the Western-led global order. Todays’ WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: Cloudy with thundershowers 34 C degrees celsius Bangkok: sunny becoming cloudy, showers 35 Pattaya: Bright partly cloudy 32 Phuket and the south: Thundershowers 30 Hua Hin: Bright Sunny partly cloudy could see some showers later in the day 35 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 2024-06-20 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya Police Station Celebrates 40th Anniversary By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya — The Pattaya Police Station commemorated its 40th anniversary yesterday morning with almsgiving and a charity food stall. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330209-pattaya-police-station-celebrates-40th-anniversary/

Pattaya — The Pattaya Police Station commemorated its 40th anniversary yesterday morning with almsgiving and a charity food stall. The event was presided over by Pol. Col. Nawin Thirawith, Superintendent (Chief) of the Pattaya Police Station. The ceremony began with a prayer at the Krom Luang Chumphon Khet Udomsak Shrine in front of the Pattaya Police Station. Nine monks were then invited to the 3rd floor of the station to chant Buddhist mantras and receive alms, flowers, and lunch from police officers. The ceremony was held to bring good fortune to the police station and all its officers in celebration of the station’s 40th anniversary since its establishment. A charity food stall was also set up to offer free meals, sweets, drinks, and other items to participants and the public. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-06-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Foreign Envoys Celebrate Thailand's Marriage Equality Bill Passage Picture courtesy: Royal Thai Government Thailand garnered international praise as its caretaker Senate passed the landmark Marriage Equality Bill yesterday, paving the way for same-sex marriage in the nation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330207-foreign-envoys-celebrate-thailands-marriage-equality-bill-passage/

Thailand garnered international praise as its caretaker Senate passed the landmark Marriage Equality Bill yesterday, paving the way for same-sex marriage in the nation. The Embassy of Ireland expressed its joy with a message saying, "A wonderful festive atmosphere at Thai Government House to celebrate the passage of the Marriage Equality Bill through parliament. Truly a historic moment as Thailand becomes the third country in Asia and first in ASEAN to legalise same-sex marriage." The US Embassy in Bangkok also extended its congratulations, stating, "The US Embassy in Bangkok extends heartfelt congratulations to the Thai people following the Senate’s recent approval of the Marriage Equality Bill, marking an important procedural advancement on the path towards equality. While this isn’t the final step, it’s a significant milestone in the journey towards recognising and honouring love in all its forms. We stand with Thailand in its journey toward progress and inclusivity." International media followed suit, with CNN calling it "A monumental step forward." ABC Australia added that Thailand is poised to become a popular retirement hub for LGBTQ+ individuals from around the world, generating substantial revenue due to its inclusive and flexible culture. To mark this historical occasion, the Thai government hosted a celebration at Government House last evening. Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai and Social Development and Human Security Minister Varawut Silpa-archa, along with other government officials and MPs, joined the LGBTQ community in the festivities. Minister Silpa-archa thanked all involved parties for their support in making the bill's passage a reality. He noted that Thailand now stands alongside Taiwan and Nepal as one of the few countries in Asia to legally recognise same-sex marriage. As celebrations continue, the international community watches and applauds Thailand’s progressive stance on marriage equality, signalling a new era of inclusivity for the country. TOP Picture courtesy: Royal Thai Government -- 2024-06-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Massive Blaze Erupts at Electronics Firm in Rayong Picture courtesy: Thai Channel 8 A tremendous fire broke out at an electronics parts company in Rayong’s Pluak Daeng district early this afternoon. The incident occurred at Sun In Electronics (Thailand) around 1 pm and swiftly escalated, sending vast plumes of thick, black smoke high into the sky, visible from miles away. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330205-massive-blaze-erupts-at-electronics-firm-in-rayong/

A tremendous fire broke out at an electronics parts company in Rayong’s Pluak Daeng district early this afternoon. The incident occurred at Sun In Electronics (Thailand) around 1 pm and swiftly escalated, sending vast plumes of thick, black smoke high into the sky, visible from miles away. Authorities were alerted promptly, and emergency services rushed to the scene. The factory is well-known in the area for its production of electronic components, making the incident particularly concerning for the local community. At a nearby school, Ban Klong Kram, located just three kilometres from the factory, students were sent home as a precaution. The school's administration also urged residents in the vicinity to use face masks due to the potentially harmful smoke. Health officials supported these measures, stressing the importance of avoiding inhalation of the smoke, which may contain hazardous substances. Firefighters arrived on-site with water trucks and worked tirelessly to bring the inferno under control. By late afternoon, they had managed to significantly reduce the fire’s intensity, but remained on high alert due to the difficulty of fully extinguishing the flames within the sprawling industrial complex. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation. Initial reports suggest a possible electrical fault, although this remains unconfirmed. The extent of the damage is yet to be assessed, but given the size of the facility and the ferocity of the fire, it is expected to be significant. Local authorities are coordinating with the factory’s management to ensure all safety protocols are followed and to prevent any further incidents. The incident has raised concerns about industrial safety standards in the region, with calls from the community for stricter regulations and improved safety measures to prevent future occurrences. The incident reminds us of the critical importance of industrial safety, with the hope that such measures will be reinforced in the wake of this disaster. As the situation develops, officials are sure to provide more updates on both the cause and impact of the fire. Picture courtesy: Thai Channel 8 -- 2024-06-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Digital Wallet Project to Spur Economic Growth, PM Assures File photo courtesy: Prachachat Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin today reconfirmed the much-anticipated, although delayed, digital wallet project will undoubtedly foster economic growth by boosting domestic consumption, manufacturing, job creation, and state revenue. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330204-digital-wallet-project-to-spur-economic-growth-pm-assures/