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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/

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. Addressing the House of Representatives on the 2025 budget during the first day of a three-day floor debate, the Prime Minister assured that the 10,000-baht digital wallet initiative will be rolled out in the fourth quarter of this year, benefiting a total of 50 million citizens across the country. The Prime Minister likened the Pheu Thai-initiated populist handout campaign to a tornado, predicting it will significantly stimulate domestic consumption, enhance the manufacturing sector, generate more jobs, and bolster the country's economic growth potential. The funding for the 500 billion baht project will partially come from the current and next fiscal years' government budgets, providing 175 billion baht and 152.7 billion baht respectively. The remaining 172.3 billion baht will be borrowed from the Bank for Agriculture & Agricultural Cooperatives. Under this scheme, each of the estimated 50 million citizens aged 16 and above will receive a digital wallet loaded with up to 10,000 baht to spend on merchandise at local stores and restaurants within their home districts over a six-month period. Thailand's Prime Minister Srettha further detailed that the 3.75 trillion baht budget for the next fiscal year represents a 272 billion baht increase from the current fiscal year. This budget seeks to support an anticipated economic growth range of 2.5 to 3.5%, with inflation expected to be between 0.7 and 1.7%. The total budget includes 2.88 trillion baht in forecasted state revenue, plus 865.7 billion baht in planned borrowing to cover the corresponding budget deficit. As of the end of last March, public debt stood at 11.4 trillion baht, accounting for 63% of the country’s GDP and within the mandatory 70% limit. Foreign reserves totalled 224.4 billion dollars. The budget also allocates 2.7 trillion baht for regular expenditures and 908.2 billion baht for investment projects led by the Pheu Thai government, according to the Prime Minister. -- 2024-06-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Move Forward Criticises Thai Budget and Digital Wallet Plan Picture courtesy: Matichon In today's parliamentary debate, Move Forward leader Chaithawat Tulathon expressed concerns over Thailand’s Pheu Thai-led government's proposed 2025 budget and its flagship policy, the digital wallet scheme. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330203-move-forward-criticises-thai-budget-and-digital-wallet-plan/

In today's parliamentary debate, Move Forward leader Chaithawat Tulathon expressed concerns over Thailand’s Pheu Thai-led government's proposed 2025 budget and its flagship policy, the digital wallet scheme. Chaithawat argued that if implemented, the scheme would flood Thai markets with cheap, low-quality Chinese-made goods, potentially worsening the country's existing trade deficit with China. The 10,000-baht digital wallet initiative aims to stimulate domestic consumption by enabling Thais to purchase various goods. However, Chaithawat contended that the policy would boost imports of substandard products from China, including clothing, furniture, electric appliances, and even electric vehicles. He noted that Thailand already saw its trade deficit with China hit a record high last year, primarily due to a surge in such imports. "The government seems to prioritise their vote-winning populist campaign over genuine economic and financial objectives," Chaithawat said, suggesting that the initiative was designed more to resolve political issues than stimulate sustainable economic growth. He accused the Pheu Thai-led administration of risking Thailand's economic stability by pushing through a superficially appealing but ultimately flawed handout scheme. Despite repeating the claim that the digital wallet plan would invigorate domestic consumption and boost local industries, Chaithawat was highly sceptical. He called the 3.75 trillion baht budget bill the "most lenient and risky" ever debated in parliament, implying that it lacked the stringent measures needed to protect Thailand’s economic interests. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and other government officials have championed the scheme as a way to rejuvenate the economy. However, Chaithawat's critique underscores a broader unease among opposition figures who question whether short-term populist measures can deliver long-term economic stability. The fiery debate sets the stage for further scrutiny of the budget bill and the digital wallet project as Thailand navigates its economic trajectory amidst both domestic and international challenges. Picture courtesy: Matichon -- 2024-06-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Unveils Ambitious Plan to Become Aviation Hub by 2030 File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin unveiled an ambitious vision to transform Thailand into a regional aviation hub by 2030, under the initiative 'Ignite Thailand, Aviation Hub'. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330202-thailand-unveils-ambitious-plan-to-become-aviation-hub-by-2030/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin unveiled an ambitious vision to transform Thailand into a regional aviation hub by 2030, under the initiative 'Ignite Thailand, Aviation Hub'. The plan seeks to address existing infrastructure issues while vastly expanding the nation's aviation capacity to attract more international flights and boost tourism. Suvarnabhumi International Airport, which once ranked as the 13th best globally but has recently fallen to 68th, is at the centre of this grand vision. Despite Thailand's status as the world’s 24th largest economy, its air transport facilities have lagged behind regional competitors like Malaysia, Singapore, and Hong Kong. Last year, Suvarnabhumi, built for a capacity of 45 million passengers, served 60 million, highlighting an urgent need for expansion. The government has laid out a detailed roadmap to increase Suvarnabhumi’s capacity to 150 million passengers annually by 2030. The plans include opening a third runway by October 2024, increasing hourly flight capacities from 68 to 94. Additionally, a southern terminal will be built to add capacity for 60 million more passengers annually, and a fourth runway will aim to handle up to 120 flights per hour. The Airports of Thailand (AOT) has already made strides in this direction, inaugurating the SAT-1 terminal last year, which raised the airport's capacity to 60 million passengers per year. The newly planned terminals and runways are designed to ensure that Suvarnabhumi can meet its 150 million passenger goal by 2030. Further enhancements are planned to ease ground operations. The government aims to reduce immigration wait times within six months and introduce automated check-in and baggage systems. Additional ground service staff will be recruited, with a focus on performance indicators to ensure efficient service for tourists and locals. Other airports in Thailand are also set to benefit from this aviation overhaul. Don Mueang International Airport will see improvements to boost its handling capacity from 30 million to 50 million passengers by 2030. Likewise, Andaman International Airport’s infrastructure will be upgraded to support tourism in Phuket, Phang Nga, and Krabi, targeting 40 million passengers. In partnership with airlines like Bangkok Airways, Thai Vietjet, and AirAsia, Thailand has also set its sights on strengthening co-promotions with international airlines such as Emirates and Singapore Airlines. Thai Airways plans to re-emerge as one of the world’s top carriers post-restructuring, aiming to rank among the top three in Asia This comprehensive blueprint aims to position Suvarnabhumi among the top 50 global airports within a year and crack the top 20 within five years, turning Thailand into a formidable aviation hub in Southeast Asia by 2030. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-06-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Calls for Inclusive Ukraine Peace Talks Picture courtesy: Radio Free Europe Thailand has called for more inclusive peace talks on the Ukraine war, following a recent global summit held to address the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. The summit, attended by over 80 countries and international organisations, was significant, although key players like Russia were notably absent. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330201-thailand-calls-for-inclusive-ukraine-peace-talks/

Thailand has called for more inclusive peace talks on the Ukraine war, following a recent global summit held to address the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. The summit, attended by over 80 countries and international organisations, was significant, although key players like Russia were notably absent. The collective communique from the summit reaffirmed robust support for Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. Discussions focused on four principal areas: nuclear safety, food security, the exchange of prisoners, and navigation safety. The absence of Russia and other major stakeholders has, however, raised questions about the summit's ability to foster a comprehensive peace resolution. Thailand’s Foreign Ministry stressed the importance of an inclusive approach, emphasising that negotiations should involve all relevant parties to be effective. They cited adherence to the principles of the UN Charter and international law as essential for resolving the conflict and achieving global stability. Despite Russia's exclusion, the summit saw participation from several influential countries including the US, UK, France, Germany, and the EU. Yet, Thailand and other nations believe that any meaningful peace discussion must eventually involve Russia and other key stakeholders such as China, Central Asian, and African countries. Swiss hosts of the summit acknowledged the need for broader participation moving forward. Thailand specifically underlined the pressing issue of food security, urging efforts to revive the Black Sea Grain Initiative. This initiative is crucial for restoring global food supply chains disrupted by the conflict. Thailand’s stance was further highlighted by its voting record on six UN resolutions concerning the Russia-Ukraine war: four in favour, two abstentions. The nation continues to advocate for an immediate cessation of hostilities and a focus on humanitarian assistance for victims in all affected regions. In summary, Thailand’s call for inclusive peace talks aims to facilitate a balanced and sustainable resolution, reflecting the country’s commitment to diplomatic solutions and international cooperation. Picture courtesy: Radio Free Europe -- 2024-06-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Italian Man Arrested on Samui Island for Allegedly Selling Cocaine By Goongnang Suksawat Surat Thani – An Italian man was arrested on Samui Island after he allegedly sold cocaine and illegally operated a rental motorbike shop with 70 motorbikes using a Thai nominee to disguise his ownership. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330200-italian-man-arrested-on-samui-island-for-allegedly-selling-cocaine/

Surat Thani – An Italian man was arrested on Samui Island after he allegedly sold cocaine and illegally operated a rental motorbike shop with 70 motorbikes using a Thai nominee to disguise his ownership. Surat Immigration told the Phuket Express on Tuesday (June 18th) that they arrested a suspect identified only as Mr. Mattio, 39, an Italian national, on the Lamai Beach Road in the Maret sub-district, Samui district. The arrest came after Surat Thani Immigration was notified from concerned citizens that an Italian man was selling cocaine to tourists at bars and nightclubs on the Samui Island. Surat Thani Immigration then conducted a sting operation in which they agreed to buy 25 grams of cocaine from Mr. Mattio for 2,500 baht per gram, costing in total 62,500 baht. The two sides agreed to meet at a bar near the Lamai Beach to conduct the transaction. Mr. Mattio met with the undercover officer in the back of the bar but Mr. Mattio tried to escape on a motorbike when he realized that his customer was actually law enforcement. However, Mr. Mattio was blocked from escaping by other police and Immigration officials and arrested nearby. Seized from him were 31 grams of cocaine. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-06-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

PM Receives Police Conflict Report, Torsak Could Return as Chief Picture courtesy: INN Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has received a crucial investigation report, recommending that Torsak Sukwimol may return to his role as National Police Chief, while Surachate Hakparn, famously known as Big Joke, remains under investigation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330198-pm-receives-police-conflict-report-torsak-could-return-as-chief/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has received a crucial investigation report, recommending that Torsak Sukwimol may return to his role as National Police Chief, while Surachate Hakparn, famously known as Big Joke, remains under investigation. Srettha was handed the results of a meticulous inquiry conducted by the Fact-Finding and Legal Examination Committee, headed by Chatchai Promlert. This investigation tackled the publicised rift within the Royal Thai Police (RTP), scrutinising the behaviour of Torsak, the current police chief, and Big Joke, the former deputy police chief. Spanning over two months, the probe dug deep into the discord plaguing the force. Chatchai’s committee, having wrapped up its investigation, has tasked Wissanu Krea-ngam, an advisor to the prime minister, with announcing the report’s findings. Wissanu is expected to reveal the investigation details tomorrow at 11am at the Naree Samosorn Building in Government House. According to insiders, the committee’s examination was thorough, covering multiple facets of the conflict, which had reached various levels within the RTP. This infighting has notably harmed the police force’s public image and trust. Both Torsak and Big Joke were entangled in allegations concerning civil, criminal, and disciplinary issues, all meticulously outlined in the report for the prime minister’s review. “The investigation confirmed there were conflicts at several levels within the police force, which significantly impacted its image and public confidence,” an insider disclosed. Speculation suggests Torsak might resume his tenure as national police chief until his planned retirement in October next year. The investigation found no concrete evidence of misconduct on his part. However, the allegations of hidden property in the United Kingdom are still under review by the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC). Big Joke’s fate, however, remains uncertain. He can’t return to service just yet, as he is still under investigation by the Police Civil Service Protection Committee (PCSPC). The PCSPC’s conclusions will be critical in determining his future within the RTP. “Both individuals’ allegations have been carefully segregated to provide the prime minister with a clear assessment,” a source noted. Picture courtesy: INN -- 2024-06-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 20 June 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1330197-thailand-live-thursday-20-june-2024/

Pattaya to become Southeast Asia’s premier destination Photo courtesy: Pattaya Mail Pattaya, known for its bustling nightlife, is apparently trying to shed its old skin and emerge as a beacon of transformation in Southeast Asia. Recent years have witnessed a remarkable overhaul aimed at elevating visitor experiences and community living standards. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330166-pattaya-to-become-southeast-asia’s-premier-destination/