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Thailand weather alert: thunderstorms and heavy rain in 30 provinces by of Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of Dimitris Pallas, Unsplash The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued a weather warning for 30 provinces in Thailand, predicting thunderstorms and heavy rain in some areas. Bangkok and its vicinity are expected to experience rain in 40% of the area. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329653-thailand-weather-alert-thunderstorms-and-heavy-rain-in-30-provinces/

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued a weather warning for 30 provinces in Thailand, predicting thunderstorms and heavy rain in some areas. Bangkok and its vicinity are expected to experience rain in 40% of the area. The Meteorological Department forecasts for the next 24 hours indicate that a moderate southwest monsoon is covering the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand. This weather pattern will result in heavy rain in some parts of the northern and eastern regions. Residents in these areas are advised to be cautious of potential dangers from heavy and accumulated rainfall. In the northern region, thunderstorms are expected in 40% of the area, with heavy rain in some places, particularly in Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Nan, and Tak provinces. The minimum temperature will range from 24 to 27 degrees Celsius, while the maximum temperature will be between 32 and 36 degrees Celsius. The northeastern region will see thunderstorms in 20% of the area, mainly in Loei, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Chaiyaphum, and Nakhon Ratchasima provinces. Temperatures will range from a minimum of 25 to 28 degrees Celsius to a maximum of 34 to 37 degrees Celsius. In the central region, thunderstorms are expected in 30% of the area, particularly in Uthai Thani, Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Lopburi, and Saraburi provinces. The minimum temperature will be between 25 and 29 degrees Celsius, while the maximum temperature will range from 34 to 37 degrees Celsius. The eastern region is forecasted to have thunderstorms in 30% of the area, with heavy rain in some parts, especially in Chanthaburi and Trat provinces. The minimum temperature will range from 25 to 28 degrees Celsius, while the maximum temperature will be between 32 and 36 degrees Celsius. The sea will have waves about 1 to 2 metres high, and in areas with thunderstorms, waves may exceed 2 metres. Weather warning The southern region (east coast) will experience thunderstorms in 20% of the area, mainly in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Yala, and Narathiwat provinces. The minimum temperature will be between 23 and 27 degrees Celsius, and the maximum temperature will range from 35 to 38 degrees Celsius. The sea from Surat Thani upward will have waves 1 to 2 metres high, with higher waves in thunderstorm areas. From Nakhon Si Thammarat downward, the sea will have waves about 1 metre high, and in thunderstorm areas, waves may range from 1 to 2 metres. In the southern region (west coast), thunderstorms are expected in 30% of the area, particularly in Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, and Trang provinces. The minimum temperature will range from 25 to 29 degrees Celsius, while the maximum temperature will be between 32 and 36 degrees Celsius. The sea from Krabi upward will have waves about 2 metres high, with waves reaching 2 to 3 metres in thunderstorm areas. From Trang downward, the sea will have waves 1 to 2 metres high, and in thunderstorm areas, waves may exceed 2 metres, reported KhaoSod. Bangkok and its vicinity are forecasted to have thunderstorms in 40% of the area. The minimum temperature will range from 28 to 29 degrees Celsius, while the maximum temperature will be between 35 and 37 degrees Celsius. by of Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of Dimitris Pallas, Unsplash Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Monetary Policy Committee maintains policy rate at 2.50% Photo : Bank of Thailand The Bank of Thailand’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) voted six to one to retain the policy rate at 2.50% for the fourth consecutive time, despite repeated calls from the government to lower it by 0.25% to help borrowers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329650-monetary-policy-committee-maintains-policy-rate-at-250/

The Bank of Thailand’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) voted six to one to retain the policy rate at 2.50% for the fourth consecutive time, despite repeated calls from the government to lower it by 0.25% to help borrowers. One MPC member did vote to cut the one-day repurchase rate by 0.25%. According to the MPC’s statement, most committee members deem the current policy interest rate to be consistent with the economic situation, as well as being conducive to safeguarding macro-financial stability. The Thai economy is projected to expand by 2.6% this year and 3.0% next. This year’s economic growth is being driven by stronger-than-expected domestic demand in the first quarter, continued recovery in tourism and the acceleration of fiscal budget disbursement during the second quarter, according to the statement. Top Photo : Bank of Thailand Full story: Thai PBS 2024-06-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Thursday 13 June 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329649-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-thursday-13-june-2024/

The supreme court yesterday upheld an earlier court ruling to dismiss a case after the BTSC skytrain company had accused the MRTA metro and its committee of assisting a particular bidder to win the contract,and to co-invest in an extension of the orange line train system. The dismissal ends a 4 year court battle, The MRTA is due to sign a contract with the bid winner, and expects to see the extension out to minburi operational in 2028. Police are investigating the disappearance of three boats loaded with 330,000 litres of oil and 18 crewmen from a pier in Sattahip Officers noted yesterday morning that Three out of the five vessels that had been confiscated in March for oil smuggling were missing. They had been moored about 100 metres away from the marine police pier. Animal protection groups are calling for changes to the law governing sale of pets and exotic animals following the deadly fire at Chatuchak market on Tuesday that killed over 1,000 animals. 10 groups issued a joint statement calling for measures to ensure such a tragedy is not repeated and for authorities to carry out a thorough investigation into the Chatuchak fire. And in Hua hin, a dog named bella that had been missing for 19 days managed to find her way home after following a scent for 12 kilometers, Her owners had been out daily in an attempt to find her and lay a scent trail, they also offered a reward and distributed more than 400 posters. They opened a door early yesterday morning to find their dog Bella sitting there. Around the region. Chinese scientists say they have identified a gene that could enable the fully mechanised production of hybrid rice seeds, bypassing current time and labour-intensive manual methods. By creating lines of rice with both smaller and larger grain sizes, researchers found it became a simple matter of mechanically separating the hybrid seeds from the rest using a sieve. “Hybrid rice has achieved high grain yields and greatly contributes to food security Todays’ WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: Cloudy with rain 32C degrees celsius Bangkok: Sunny becoming cloudy 35 Pattaya: Sunny partly cloudy 32. Phuket and the south: Sunny becoming cloudy 32 Hua Hin: Sunny partly cloudy 34 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 2024-06-13 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thaksin Shinawatra Promises Reforms at Nakhon Nayok Mayor's Birthday Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra attended the 79th birthday celebration of Nakhon Nayok Mayor Somneuk Thanadetsakul, where he vowed to bring significant changes to the city. The event, held at a riverside garden house in Srima, Mueang, Nakhon Nayok, drew many local politicians and supporters. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329648-thaksin-shinawatra-promises-reforms-at-nakhon-nayok-mayors-birthday/

Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra attended the 79th birthday celebration of Nakhon Nayok Mayor Somneuk Thanadetsakul, where he vowed to bring significant changes to the city. The event, held at a riverside garden house in Srima, Mueang, Nakhon Nayok, drew many local politicians and supporters. Thaksin's presence at the gathering, alongside notable figures like Manat Tangejwatthan, Nopadol Kaewsupat, and Phanurat Sirintarotsutthi, marked a significant moment for local politics. After a private discussion with Mayor Somneuk, Thaksin greeted fans and red-shirted supporters, who had come bearing roses. He then joined the Mayor and his wife, Jittra Thanadetsakul, on stage to extend birthday wishes. In his speech, Thaksin reminisced about their long-standing relationship, dating back to when he first ran for office under the People's Power Party, highlighting Somneuk's unwavering support. He also wished Somneuk and his sister Pimpaporn, who share the same birthday, good health and longevity. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Thaksin declared, "Today, we are politicians. Once we decide to become politicians, we cannot abandon the people. We must love and work for the people until they can't take it anymore." He acknowledged his age and modest salary but emphasised his commitment to public service and bettering the homeland. Promising to "sweep everything in Nakhon Nayok," Thaksin called for continued support for Mayor Somneuk. He stressed the importance of working for the welfare of the people, especially in light of recent challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic and mismanagement. Thaksin concluded by emphasising the need for tireless dedication to improve the lives of residents, seeking unwavering support for Mayor Somneuk to ensure sustained progress and stability in Nakhon Nayok. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-06-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Over 72 Illegal Immigrants Found Working at Samut Sakhon Factory in Major Raid By Kittisak Phalaharn Samut Sakhon — On June 12th, 2024, Royal Thai Immigration officers and relevant agencies in Samut Sakhon conducted a search operation at a factory in Krathum Baen. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329646-over-72-illegal-immigrants-found-working-at-samut-sakhon-factory-in-major-raid/

Samut Sakhon — On June 12th, 2024, Royal Thai Immigration officers and relevant agencies in Samut Sakhon conducted a search operation at a factory in Krathum Baen. This action followed a report from the Damrongdhama Center about a large number of illegal immigrant laborers at the site. During the operation, officers discovered over 72 illegal immigrants working at the factory. Among them, 45 had no legal documentation or work permits, while 27 Burmese workers had some documentation but lacked work permits. All the immigrants reportedly admitted to working illegally at the factory, where they were paid 363 baht daily in cash. They revealed that they had been employed there for one month. By Kittisak Phalaharn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-06-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Targets Long-Haul Travellers with Sustainability Focus File photo courtesy: Wikimedia Thailand is set on capturing the interest of long-haul travellers through a strategy that marries improved airline connectivity and sustainable tourism practices. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329645-thailand-targets-long-haul-travellers-with-sustainability-focus/ Full story:

Thailand is set on capturing the interest of long-haul travellers through a strategy that marries improved airline connectivity and sustainable tourism practices. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) unveiled plans to attract visitors from distant markets at the Thailand Travel Mart+ 2024 in Khao Lak. Long-haul markets, including Europe, the Americas, Africa, and the Middle East, are pivotal. Representing 28% of Thailand’s international arrivals, these regions brought in nearly 8 million visitors in 2023. This year, from January to June alone, arrivals from these areas have surpassed 4.3 million. TAT’s goal for 2024 is 9.9 million arrivals, contributing THB769,824 million in receipts. To support this, TAT is focusing on flight connectivity. The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand reported a 28% increase in international flights this summer. Several airlines are stepping up, including Air Canada’s new Vancouver-Bangkok route, Condor’s Frankfurt-Bangkok flights, and Finnair’s expansions from Helsinki. Meanwhile, THAI Airways is enhancing its services with new routes from Milan, Oslo, and more, while AirAsia X is eyeing European routes for winter 2024. Additionally, TAT is adapting visa policies to entice longer stays. Visitors from 93 countries will soon enjoy up to 60 days visa-free, compared to the previous 30 days. Plans are underway to introduce long-stay airfares, encouraging stays of at least 21 days, and offering hotel bonus nights and added services. On the sustainability front, TAT aims to lead with initiatives like the Thailand Tourism Awards and Sustainable Tourism Goals (STGs). Collaborating with the US-based Tourism Cares, TAT will host the Tourism Care Summit and Meaningful Travel Fair in 2025, spotlighting sustainable tourism and community involvement. Siripakorn Cheawsamoot of TAT highlighted that travellers are willing to pay more for sustainable practices, urging global standards for Thai tourism. This strategic fusion of extended travel options and a commitment to sustainable practices sets a promising future for Thailand’s tourism. File photo courtesy: Wikimedia -- 2024-06-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Chonburi Police Bust Gang of Thai Men Impersonating Police Officers and Robbing and Extorting Victims By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: Thairath Chonburi — Police officers from the Laem Chabang Police Station have apprehended three Thai men who impersonated police officers to rob local residents in Chonburi province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329643-chonburi-police-bust-gang-of-thai-men-impersonating-police-officers-and-robbing-and-extorti/

Chonburi — Police officers from the Laem Chabang Police Station have apprehended three Thai men who impersonated police officers to rob local residents in Chonburi province. According to a press conference held at the Laem Chabang Police Station on June 11th, the arrest came after a complaint was filed by Mr. Thanaphat Butwanich, 31, who reported being robbed by the suspects on June 9th at a local convenience store in Sri Racha district, Chonburi. The suspects, dressed in bulletproof vests, brown trousers, and black caps like those of police officers, reportedly forced Mr. Thanaphat into their car and tried to force him into buying illegal drugs from them. However, Mr. Thanaphat refused to do so, causing the suspects to assault him, steal his wallet containing 8,000 baht, and take his motorcycle. By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: Thairath Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-06-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya City Orders One-Day Break for Beach Umbrella Rentals to Restore Local Environment By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: 77kaoded Pattaya City officials have ordered a one-day break for beach umbrella operators on Wednesday, June 12nd, to allow for extensive sand restoration and big cleaning efforts. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329642-pattaya-city-orders-one-day-break-for-beach-umbrella-rentals-to-restore-local-environment/

Pattaya City officials have ordered a one-day break for beach umbrella operators on Wednesday, June 12nd, to allow for extensive sand restoration and big cleaning efforts. The Pattaya City Administration implemented this one-day break to restore the beach ecosystem following the influx of both domestic and international tourists. The idea originated with the City’s Sanitation Control Division and the Natural Resources and Environment Office. A large team of city workers were dispatched to the beach to use a tractor to till and plow the beachfront, turning the sand over to restore its softness and eliminate any buried debris. The workers also removed litter, broken stones, and other trash, which could be done more conveniently due to the temporary suspension of umbrella and chair operations. By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: 77kaoded Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-06-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

30,000 Baht Lost Due to Incomplete ATM Deposit in Bangkok Picture courtesy: Channel 3 A Thai man lost 30,000 baht in cash after an incomplete deposit process at an automated teller machine (ATM) in a shopping mall in the Bang Kapi district of Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329641-30000-baht-lost-due-to-incomplete-atm-deposit-in-bangkok/

A Thai man lost 30,000 baht in cash after an incomplete deposit process at an automated teller machine (ATM) in a shopping mall in the Bang Kapi district of Bangkok. This incident has drawn attention to the importance of completing all necessary steps during such transactions. Tour guide Ter is now seeking assistance from non-profit organisation Saimai Survive. He explained that on June 10, around 4pm, he deposited 30,000 baht into an ATM situated outside a bank within a shopping mall. Ter followed what he thought was the process, placing the cash into the machine’s storage. Believing the deposit was complete, he left the ATM without waiting for a confirmation SMS from the bank. When no confirmation arrived, Ter returned to the bank minutes later to clarify the issue with the staff. Initially, the staff suspected an SMS malfunction and assured him the funds would reach his account. However, upon reviewing the deposit process with the bank staff, Ter realised he had missed the final step of confirming the amount after the ATM counted his cash. Bank staff reassured Ter that other customers could not access money stored in the ATM, as a sensor should prevent such actions. However, when the bank reviewed the ATM’s security camera footage, it revealed a couple using the machine after Ter had placed the cash in the storage. The CCTV footage showed the couple appearing shocked to find the money. They looked around before taking the cash, with the woman placing the money into her bag before leaving the premises. The bank has since denied responsibility for Ter’s loss, citing that the incident occurred outside their official premises. Renowned lawyer Ronnarong Kaewphet supported the bank’s stance, indicating the loss resulted from Ter’s own mistake. He recommended that Ter file a theft complaint with the police to help track down the couple responsible. This incident serves as a stark reminder to be vigilant and ensure all banking transaction steps are completed before leaving an ATM. Picture courtesy: Channel 3 -- 2024-06-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Closure of Thai Car Plants Sparks Investor Concerns Picture courtesy: Automotive News In a significant shake-up for Thailand’s automotive sector, the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) has sounded the alarm over the planned closures of Suzuki and Subaru production facilities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329640-closure-of-thai-car-plants-sparks-investor-concerns/

In a significant shake-up for Thailand’s automotive sector, the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) has sounded the alarm over the planned closures of Suzuki and Subaru production facilities. The FTI warns that these closures could erode investor confidence, casting a shadow over the country's future in car manufacturing. Last month, Suzuki Motor (Thailand) declared that it would cease all factory operations in Thailand by the end of 2025. Facing falling sales and fierce competition from Chinese electric vehicles (EVs), the carmaker found it challenging to sustain its business. Similarly, Tan Chong Subaru Automotive (Thailand) is set to halt vehicle manufacturing by the end of this year after enduring five straight years of financial losses. Supoj Sukpisan, President of the FTI’s Auto Parts Club, noted that Suzuki has significantly struggled in the Thai market. Intense competition from Chinese automakers prompted Suzuki to cut prices by nearly 100,000 baht per unit. Despite these efforts, production of Suzuki's eco-cars plunged from approximately 8,000 units per month to less than 1,000 units. Subaru’s facilities, which involved importing parts from Japan and Malaysia for assembly in Thailand, also experienced declining productivity. Attempts to reverse these downturns by relocating operations have not succeeded. While these closures may not have an immediate, severe impact on local auto parts businesses due to the already reduced production volumes, they risk deterring new investments in the sector. To illustrate the financial strain, Suzuki's 2023 revenue in Thailand stood at 7.03 billion baht, with a loss of 264 million baht. Subaru Thailand reported a revenue of 2.07 billion baht, with losses totalling 377 million baht. Despite these challenges, the FTI maintains hope. Japanese automakers still perceive Thailand's auto parts supply chain and skilled labour force as robust. Additionally, planned investments by Japanese car manufacturers are promising. Toyota and Honda each plan to invest 50 billion baht, Isuzu 30 billion baht, and Mitsubishi 20 billion baht over the next five years. As the industry braces for these closures, all eyes will be on future developments to gauge the long-term impact on Thailand’s automotive landscape. Picture courtesy: Automotive News -- 2024-06-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

PM Srettha’s Impeachment Hearing Set for June 18 Picture courtesy: Thai Post The Constitutional Court has announced that Thailand's Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s impeachment hearing will take place on June 18, following a lawsuit filed by 40 senators. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329639-pm-srettha’s-impeachment-hearing-set-for-june-18/

The Constitutional Court has announced that Thailand's Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s impeachment hearing will take place on June 18, following a lawsuit filed by 40 senators. These senators, reportedly loyal to Palang Pracharath leader Prawit Wongsuwan and former coup leader Prayut Chan-o-cha, accuse Thavisin of violating the constitution and political ethics. Specifically, they object to Thavisin's appointment of Pichit Chuenban, a former lawyer for Pheu Thai party leader Thaksin Shinawatra, as a minister in the Prime Minister’s Office. This impeachment case has drawn significant public interest due to the high-profile figures involved and the potential political repercussions. Chuenban’s appointment in April has been particularly controversial given his close ties to Thaksin Shinawatra, a polarising figure in Thai politics. Critics argue that this move undermines the integrity of the political process and breaches ethical standards. The Constitutional Court is treating the case with urgency, ordering both sides to submit their evidence by June 17, just a day before the formal hearing. This swift timeline indicates the matter's perceived severity and the need for a prompt resolution. In parallel, the Constitutional Court is also handling another significant case involving the Move Forward Party. The Election Commission has sought the party's dissolution, and additional evidence must be submitted by June 17, with hearings also set for June 18. These cases, both set to be heard on the same day, signal a critical juncture for Thai politics. The outcomes could reshape the political landscape, affecting everything from party alignments to public confidence in the political system. With the Constitutional Court in the spotlight, all eyes will be on these pivotal decisions and their implications for Thailand’s political future. Picture courtesy: Thai Post -- 2024-06-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Court Demands More Evidence from Polling Agency in Move Forward Case Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In a significant development today, the Constitutional Court has directed the Election Commission to present additional evidence in the ongoing case against the Move Forward Party. This ruling goes to the heart of Thailand's political landscape, as the party faces allegations that could lead to its dissolution. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329638-court-demands-more-evidence-from-polling-agency-in-move-forward-case/

In a significant development today, the Constitutional Court has directed the Election Commission to present additional evidence in the ongoing case against the Move Forward Party. This ruling goes to the heart of Thailand's political landscape, as the party faces allegations that could lead to its dissolution. The case centres on accusations that Move Forward attempted to undermine the monarchy by proposing amendments to Thailand's strict lese majeste law, known as Section 112 of the Criminal Code. This law is controversial and carries severe penalties for insulting the monarchy. By calling for its amendment, Move Forward has sparked significant political debate, leading to the current legal proceedings. Today’s court session saw the judges instruct the Election Commission to submit more detailed evidence by June 17. This supplemental material is crucial, given the serious nature of the charges. The next court hearing is set for June 18, providing a tight window for the commission to comply with the court's order. Many political observers view this case as a pivotal moment for Move Forward, a relatively new party that has quickly gained traction among younger Thais and reform-minded citizens. The party's calls for changes to Section 112 have resonated with its base but also drawn fierce criticism from traditionalists and the establishment. If the court rules against Move Forward, it could lead to the dissolution of the party, a move that would significantly alter Thailand's political dynamics. Such an outcome might also provoke reactions from both supporters and critics, potentially leading to broader political and social repercussions. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-06-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 13 June 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1329637-thailand-live-thursday-13-june-2024/