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Pattaya's Dolphin Roundabout fountain stands conspicuously dry, fuelling public frustration. Councillor Jidapha Suwathaphon highlighted the issue in a heated city council meeting, pointing out the fountain's state since she assumed office. The repairs, promised and funded long ago, remain undone. "It’s been months since the dolphins moved. We must fix this urgently to boost our city's appeal to tourists. They deserve well-maintained landmarks," said Jidapha. This sentiment arose in an address to Pattaya Deputy Mayor Manot Nongyai, who acknowledged the problem's longevity. "The fountain was already deteriorating when we took office," Manot admitted. "Our investigation revealed broken pumps were the issue." Designed to use two alternating pumps for its signature display, the fountain's mechanics require meticulous upkeep. Unfortunately, the protracted governmental procurement process has delayed the much-needed repairs. "We're currently in the third quarter of the procurement process. We expect the new pumps to be installed by the fourth quarter," Manot assured, promising a revived Dolphin Roundabout fountain soon. While the fountain debacle persists, Pattaya is progressing on other fronts. The ambitious Bali Hai Pier project, rolled out in November 2017 with a substantial 95 million baht budget, illustrates Pattaya's broader efforts to become a premier tourist hub. The project pledges extensive renovations, replete with lush landscapes and a spectacular Dancing Fountain Plaza to captivate visitors. Meanwhile, Mayor Poramet Ngampichet gave updates on infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing the city's drainage systems. Funded by prior budget allocations, these initiatives underscore ongoing efforts to improve Pattaya's infrastructure and overall quality of life. As the city grapples with its iconic fountain's restoration, broader developments paint a hopeful future for Pattaya’s tourism and infrastructure ambitions. TOP: File photo -- 2024-05-31 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Donald Trump was convicted of falsifying business records to influence the 2016 presidential campaign Thursday in a historic trial that saw a former U.S. president face criminal charges for the first time. A New York jury found Trump guilty of 34 counts, related to a $130,000 payment made to adult film actress Stormy Daniels. The prosecution had alleged Daniels was paid to keep secret a 2006 tryst she had with Trump in order to influence the results of the 2016 election, which Trump ultimately won. The trial lasted a month and a half and was plenty eventful. In addition to the fiery testimonies of Daniels and Trump’s former lawyer Michael Cohen, Trump was held in contempt of court 10 times and fined $10,000 for violating a gag order against attacking people involved with the trial. Many Republican leaders, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, traveled to New York to speak out in support of the 2024 Republican presidential candidate. Full story: YAHOO!News -- 2024-05-31

Escaped Kangaroo Confirmed Dead after Chiang Mai Search Picture courtesy: Facebook สรยุทธ สุทัศนะจินดา กรรมกรข่าว Chiang Mai, Thailand – The Director of the Zoological Park Organisation of Thailand confirmed today that officers discovered the body of a runaway kangaroo near Chang Khian Waterfall, close to the foothills of Doi Suthep mountain in Chiang Mai. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328614-escaped-kangaroo-confirmed-dead-after-chiang-mai-search/

Picture courtesy: Facebook สรยุทธ สุทัศนะจินดา กรรมกรข่าว Chiang Mai, Thailand – The Director of the Zoological Park Organisation of Thailand confirmed today that officers discovered the body of a runaway kangaroo near Chang Khian Waterfall, close to the foothills of Doi Suthep mountain in Chiang Mai. The red kangaroo, aged two years and six months, escaped from Chiang Mai Zoo early yesterday morning, prompting a major search operation. The kangaroo was last spotted hopping along the road near Doi Suthep around 8.20am, before disappearing into the dense forest. Zoo staff, veterinary teams, and officers from Doi Suthep-Pui National Park coordinated a search. Suspense grew as they found bloodstains and faeces, presumably from the runaway animal, near Chang Khian Waterfall, but no concrete signs of its whereabouts. After an exhaustive 30-hour search, Auttapon Sri-haerun, Director of the Zoological Park Organization of Thailand, reported that the kangaroo's body was discovered by Chiang Mai Zoo staff at approximately 4pm today. The circumstances surrounding its death remain unclear, though initial observations suggest that the kangaroo might have suffered an injury, given the evidence of bloodstains, or possibly fell from the nearby waterfall. The cause of the kangaroo’s death is still under investigation. Chiang Mai Zoo has announced plans for a press conference this evening to provide further details and clarify the findings of their initial investigations. This incident has raised questions about zoo safety measures and animal welfare, especially concerning the conditions that enabled the kangaroo's escape and subsequent fatal outcome. Local wildlife experts are expected to weigh in during the press conference, shedding light on future steps to prevent similar incidents. Chiang Mai Zoo, known for its extensive and diverse animal exhibits, will likely face increased scrutiny following this unfortunate event. -- 2024-05-31 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Chaikasem May Become PM if Srettha Faces Impeachment Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In an intriguing development, political analyst Pichai Nutawong from NIDA suggests that Chaikasem Nitisiri, a less prominent Pheu Thai MP, could emerge as Thailand's next Prime Minister if current PM Srettha Thavisin is impeached or steps down. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328613-chaikasem-may-become-pm-if-srettha-faces-impeachment/

In an intriguing development, political analyst Pichai Nutawong from NIDA suggests that Chaikasem Nitisiri, a less prominent Pheu Thai MP, could emerge as Thailand's next Prime Minister if current PM Srettha Thavisin is impeached or steps down. The speculation comes amidst rising legal pressures and internal party controversies surrounding Srettha. Srettha Thavisin, affiliated with the Pheu Thai party, faces possible impeachment by the Constitutional Court. This has led to discussions within the party about a potential replacement, with Chaikasem being a notable name. Chaikasem, a former justice minister, was one of the Pheu Thai's three prime ministerial candidates in last year’s election, alongside Thaksin Shinawatra's daughter Paetongtarn and Srettha himself. The de facto leader of Pheu Thai, Thaksin Shinawatra, is reportedly inclined to keep his daughter Paetongtarn in a less prominent role until future elections, scheduled to take place in 2027. Hence, Chaikasem might be considered a temporary solution until Thaksin's daughter is ready to step into the leadership spotlight. According to Pichai, the transition from Srettha to Chaikasem would not be straightforward. Current coalition partners, including Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul and Palang Pracharath leader Prawit Wongsuwan, are viewed as unlikely to secure sufficient MP support to seize the premiership if it becomes vacated. The pressure on Srettha is compounded by a brewing impeachment, driven by accusations from 40 senators loyal to Prawit. They claim Srettha violated both constitutional and ethical mandates by appointing Pichit Chuenban, a controversial figure with a history of contempt charges, to a ministerial post. Meanwhile, Thaksin faces his legal battles, with lese majeste charges scheduled to be heard on June 18. Although released on bail, his increased political activities have reportedly unsettled the conservative elite, who initially permitted his return under unspecified conditions. As the legal clouds loom over both Thaksin and Srettha, the political landscape within Pheu Thai appears increasingly tumultuous. Chaikasem's emergence as a potential interim Prime Minister could signify a significant shift in Thai politics, orchestrated to navigate through these turbulent times. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-05-31 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

No "Legal Miracles" for Thaksin and Yingluck, Says Former Deputy PM Wisanu Krea-ngam, Deputy Prime Minister (file photo courtesy: MGR online) Former Deputy PM Wissanu Krea-ngarm dismisses claims of aiding Thaksin and Yingluck in their legal battles. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328612-no-legal-miracles-for-thaksin-and-yingluck-says-former-deputy-pm/

Former Deputy PM Wissanu Krea-ngarm dismisses claims of aiding Thaksin and Yingluck in their legal battles. Wissanu Krea-ngarm, Thailand's former Deputy Prime Minister, has put to rest rumours that he may create "legal miracles" to assist Thaksin Shinawatra or Yingluck Shinawatra in their ongoing legal battles. Speaking today, Wissanu said categorically that he is unable to alter the course of justice for either of these high-profile figures. Having been recently asked by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin to consult on legal matters for the Pheu Thai-led government, Wissanu clarified his position. He emphasised that his role would not extend to intervening in the legal proceedings involving Thaksin, despite his reputation as a key legal advisor to past governments. Thaksin currently faces lese-majeste charges brought by the Office of the Attorney-General (OAG), shortly after his release on parole for a separate case of power abuse. The lese-majeste charge, under Section 112 of the Criminal Code, relates to comments Thaksin made linking the monarchy to the 2006 coup that ousted him. Wissanu made it clear that he does not possess the capacity to influence this case. Likewise, he remarked that he could not assist Yingluck, who faces a five-year prison sentence for her role in a controversial rice subsidy scheme. Yingluck has been in self-imposed exile since her ousting in the 2014 coup. Responding to criticism that he might employ extraordinary legal tactics to aid past political allies, Wissanu was explicit: "Legal miracles" are not on the cards. He also addressed speculation surrounding Srettha's own legal troubles, after 40 senators moved to impeach the Prime Minister for alleged constitutional breaches. While acknowledging that legal channels exist for Srettha to defend himself, Wissanu expressed uncertainty about the outcome. Wissanu noted that although Srettha had sought his advice, he has not been officially appointed as a prime-ministerial advisor. This formal designation would allow him to give legal opinions during cabinet meetings but is yet to be confirmed. In sum, Wissanu's statements serve to cool speculation about his role in resolving the legal predicaments of two of Thailand's most controversial political figures. Wisanu Krea-ngam, Deputy Prime Minister (file photo courtesy: MGR online) -- 2024-05-31 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Drunken Bar Brawl Leads to Scotsman Being Hit by Car in Pattaya Picture courtesy: Pattaya Mail A chaotic scene unfolded in Soi Buakhao, Central Pattaya, on Tuesday when an unidentified Scotsman became the unfortunate victim of a bizarre accident. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328611-drunken-bar-brawl-leads-to-scotsman-being-hit-by-car-in-pattaya/

Picture courtesy: Pattaya Mail On Tuesday, chaos erupted in Soi Buakhao, Central Pattaya, when an unidentified Scotsman found himself in the unfortunate grip of a bizarre accident. The trouble began earlier that night at a local bar. Heavily inebriated, the Scotsman had an altercation and was left to navigate his way home with a friend. The night took a dramatic turn when witnesses reported seeing the friend push the Scotsman into the street, directly in the path of an oncoming car. Police officers arrived to find the injured man lying on the road, his condition worsened by his intoxication. Rescue workers made valiant efforts to assist but faced a challenging task as the Scotsman became increasingly belligerent, hurling abuse and resisting help. Matcha Sirirom, who witnessed the incident, shared her account with authorities. According to her, the friend’s push was the catalyst for the unfortunate accident. As the vehicle struck the Scotsman, the friend hastily fled the scene, leaving the injured man alone and confused. Matcha quickly called emergency services, who arrived swiftly but struggled to manage the agitated victim. Despite his resistance, paramedics eventually transported him to a nearby hospital for treatment. Local authorities are now thoroughly investigating the incident. Their primary focus is to identify the friend responsible for the push and to uncover the full details of the events leading up to the man's injury. This incident has left many questions unanswered about the motives behind the friend’s actions and what exactly transpired that night. As the investigation continues, the community awaits answers and hopes for a swift resolution to this unsettling incident. Picture courtesy: Pattaya Mail -- 2024-05-31 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 31 May 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1328609-thailand-live-friday-31-may-2024/

Street Vendors in Bangkok Encouraged to Sign Up for Tax Registration The city government is encouraging street vendors to sign up for the tax payment program, in efforts to regulate their activity in public spaces and sidewalks. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328576-street-vendors-in-bangkok-encouraged-to-sign-up-for-tax-registration/

A member of Pattaya City Council, Phasakorn Yusoomboon, has expressed concern over the increasing number of tourists and unchecked development on Koh Larn Island. Phasakorn, who represents Pattaya District 1, brought up the issue at the recent council meeting, pointing out that the island daily receives over 10,000 tourists. This number can even reach up to 20,000 during peak seasons. Excessive tourism could jeopardize Koh Larn's future Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328589-excessive-tourism-could-jeopardize-koh-larns-future/

Monkey pox is on the rise after Songkran Monkey pox cases in Thailand have been rising since mid-April, with the number of confirmed cases reaching 787 since the infectious disease was first detected in Thailand in July 2022. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328559-monkey-pox-is-on-the-rise-after-songkran/

Monkey pox cases in Thailand have been rising since mid-April, with the number of confirmed cases reaching 787 since the infectious disease was first detected in Thailand in July 2022. The Department of Disease Control reported that.97% of the cases are in and around Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Rayong and Udon Thani, said the department’s spokesman, Dr Weerawat Manosuthi, on Wednesday. He asked members of the public to avoid having sex with strangers and sharing personal items with individuals who may be infected, noting that everyone can get infected if they engage in high risk behaviour. Full story: Thai PBS 2024-05-30 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Notorious Passport Forgery Ringleader Captured in Bangkok Picture courtesy: MGR online A notorious passport forgery mastermind, who had been evading capture for several months, was apprehended during a dramatic late-night raid in Bangkok's upscale Sathorn district. Known only as Chun, the fugitive had been wanted by Chinese authorities on charges including falsifying and using forged passports and had posed as a Surinamese national to avoid detection. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328547-notorious-passport-forgery-ringleader-captured-in-bangkok/

Picture courtesy: MGR online A notorious passport forgery mastermind, who had been evading capture for several months, was apprehended during a dramatic late-night raid in Bangkok's upscale Sathorn district. Known only as Chun, the fugitive had been wanted by Chinese authorities on charges including falsifying and using forged passports and had posed as a Surinamese national to avoid detection. Authorities revealed that the arrest operation took place at a condominium on Suan Phlu Road. Pol. Maj. Gen. Phanthana Nutchanart, Deputy Commissioner of the Immigration Bureau, confirmed the arrest and detailed the operation. Chun had been on the run ever since the Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant on April 17. Immigration Division 4 had been vigorously pursuing Chun, who was allegedly the lynchpin of an international passport forgery syndicate. Upon raiding the flat, investigators discovered several incriminating items, including a forged Taiwanese passport, driving licenses, a variety of bank passbooks, and multiple copies of passports. Initial claims of legitimate tenancy by Chun were quickly debunked when evidence linked him to a wider forgery network. Following thorough verification with Taiwanese authorities, it was confirmed that the passport Chun presented was indeed counterfeit. Further cooperation with Chinese officials verified Chun's true identity as a Chinese national and the suspected head of the forgery operation. In a related development, Thai authorities also detained three Syrian nationals on suspicions of using forged passports in Phuket. One suspect was apprehended at Phuket International Airport while attempting to leave the country with a fraudulent United Arab Emirates passport. Follow-up investigations led to the arrest of two additional suspects on the island. Additionally, three agency operators were detained for forging documents for visa applications to various embassies. Numerous counterfeit items were seized, and the suspects have confessed to their crimes, now facing legal proceedings. Authorities view these arrests as significant blows against the intricate networks of passport forgery and illegal immigration. More investigations are likely to follow, aiming to dismantle these dangerous operations comprehensively. -- 2024-05-30 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Manhunt Launched for Fugitive Brit Thought to be Hiding in Thailand Photo courtesy of North Yorkshire Police UK British Police have launched an international manhunt for a fugitive from Warrington, UK, who is believed to be hiding in Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328545-manhunt-launched-for-fugitive-brit-thought-to-be-hiding-in-thailand/

Photo courtesy of North Yorkshire Police UK British Police have launched an international manhunt for a fugitive from Warrington, UK, who is believed to be hiding in Thailand. Luke Atkin, a 36-year-old from Lower Walton, failed to appear in court on serious drug charges and is now on the run. Atkin was charged with conspiracy to supply cocaine but did not attend his trial at Bradford Crown Court. Last week, he was found guilty in absentia, leading the authorities to issue an immediate warrant for his arrest. North Yorkshire Police suspect Atkin has fled the country and may be hiding in Thailand. The awareness of his potential location emerged from various sources, warranting an urgent public appeal for any information regarding his whereabouts. A police spokesperson issued a statement urging public cooperation. “Luke Atkin is wanted by the courts. Do you know where he is? We are appealing to anyone who has seen him or knows where he is now to contact us. It's believed that he has travelled abroad and could be in Thailand. We urge anyone with information to call us on 101 and reference incident number 12240074511. Alternatively, you can pass information anonymously to Crimestoppers online or by calling 0800 555 111." Atkin's case has captured public attention due to the severity of the charges and his daring escape. Authorities believe public assistance could be crucial in locating him. -- 2024-05-30 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya Seeks to Transform Image, Promoting Diverse Tourism File photo. Courtesy: Pxhere The private tourism sector in Pattaya convened a workshop yesterday to discuss strategies for repositioning the city as a comprehensive travel destination, aiming to shift its reputation beyond just a nightlife and entertainment hub. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328539-pattaya-seeks-to-transform-image-promoting-diverse-tourism/

The private tourism sector in Pattaya convened a workshop yesterday to discuss strategies for repositioning the city as a comprehensive travel destination, aiming to shift its reputation beyond just a nightlife and entertainment hub. Representatives from eight tourism associations, four tourism clubs, and major tour operators within Pattaya City and Chon Buri province attended the event. Government officials from the Chon Buri Provincial Tourism and Sports Administration, Chon Buri Provincial Administrative Organisation, Pattaya City, Pattaya Municipality, and U-Tapao Airport were also present. Thanet Suphasahasrangsi, President of the Chon Buri Tourism Federation, highlighted that Pattaya has undergone a significant transformation, now offering various attractions suitable for all types of visitors, including families. The city boasts numerous sports facilities, such as over 20 world-class golf courses within a 30-kilometre radius. Additionally, Pattaya is home to upscale shopping malls, spas, and international restaurants. However, Thanet noted that the city’s public image remains largely associated with its nightlife and entertainment scene. To address this issue, Thanet organised a workshop to devise new marketing strategies aimed at promoting Pattaya’s diverse tourism offerings. Participants focused on highlighting the charms of small towns and traditional Thai life in areas such as Sri Racha, Bang Saen, and Phanat Nikhom. The goal is to showcase that Pattaya has much more to offer beyond its nightlife. Tourism officials emphasised the importance of encouraging visitors to explore other activities besides nightlife. They suggested that visiting temples and religious attractions, beaches, islands, traditional Thai cultural attractions, floating and traditional markets, and experiencing traditional Thai music and shows can be equally rewarding. They stressed that learning about Thai culture, language, and life should be prioritised over nightlife. “Ideas gathered from the workshop will be shared with government agencies so that travellers will hopefully recognise Pattaya for more than just its nightlife scene,” Thanet concluded. File photo. Courtesy: Pxhere -- 2024-05-30 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Airways Partners with Airbus to Upgrade A320s with Reclining Seats Picture courtesy: Wikipedia In a significant move towards enhancing passenger comfort, Thai Airways International Public Company Limited (THAI) has announced a partnership with Airbus to retrofit its fleet of 20 A320ceo aircraft with premium reclining business class seats. This marks Airbus’ first cabin retrofit for a single-aisle fleet in the Asia-Pacific region. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328536-thai-airways-partners-with-airbus-to-upgrade-a320s-with-reclining-seats/

In a significant move towards enhancing passenger comfort, Thai Airways International Public Company Limited (THAI) has announced a partnership with Airbus to retrofit its fleet of 20 A320ceo aircraft with premium reclining business class seats. This marks Airbus’ first cabin retrofit for a single-aisle fleet in the Asia-Pacific region. Thai Airways' fleet enhancement follows the recent integration of its former subsidiary, Thai Smile Airways, into the parent company earlier this year. Under the new agreement, Airbus Services will install 12 business class seats on each A320ceo, equipped with backrests reclinable up to 8 inches. The retrofitting work is scheduled to commence by the end of this year. Once complete, the A320s will sport a two-class configuration, featuring 12 business class and 144 economy seats. This represents a significant upgrade from the previous all-economy setup, which seated between 168 and 174 passengers. As of April, THAI operates an extensive Airbus fleet, including 20 A320s, three A330-300s, and 20 A350-900s. Chai Eamsiri, THAI's Chief Executive Officer, stated that the acquisition of the A320 aircraft from THAI Smile Airways has strengthened THAI's route network, improved fleet efficiency, and enhanced market competitiveness. "These aircraft will serve THAI’s domestic and regional operations, aiming to provide seamless and convenient flight connectivity. The retrofit of reclining business seats will offer passengers greater comfort, elevating their travel experience," Eamsiri commented. The Senior Vice President of Customer Services at Airbus, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership. "This agreement underscores our commitment to enhancing passenger comfort and delivering exceptional travel experiences," she noted. "We look forward to seeing these upgraded A320ceo aircraft take to the skies, offering passengers unparalleled comfort with the new reclining business class seats." Picture courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-05-30 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Thursday 30 May 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328534-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-thursday-30-may-2024/

A suspected leader of a passport forgery gang was arrested in Bangkok after fleeing to Thailand. Thai authorities had issued an arrest warrant in April, He falsely claimed African Surinamese nationality, but authorities discovered he was Chinese. He led a gang that forged passports and helped people enter countries illegally, before arriving in Thailand. The Education Ministry plans to ask for a 15-billion-baht budget to provide electronic devices, including iPads, tablets and laptops, for 600,000 students and teachers, specifics have yet to be finaslised but schools could receive the equipment early next year. Some 300 companies from the Asia-Pacific region gathered in Hong Kong to discuss the global economic situation, trade, and investment. The event was attended by prime minister Srettha Thavasin who gave a speech where he presented the government's economic policies and his vision for Thailand's future. The government has approved measures to protect the environment along the Andaman coastal region at Phangnga, Krabi and Ranong. Measures will aim to prevent pollution, place a limit on the height of new buildings and prohibit activities such as snorkeling and diving that may harm the natural eco systems. Around the region: North Korea fired what appeared to be about 10 short-range ballistic missiles off its east coast, The Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said North Korea had launched a ballistic missile that apparently landed outside Japan's exclusive economic zone. The suspected missiles were fired from near its capital Pyongyang yesterday and flew about 350 km before plunging into the sea, Todays’ WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: Sunny partly cloudy 37C degrees celsius Bangkok: Cloudy with thundershowers 35 Pattaya: Bright but Cloudy with showers 33. Phuket and the south: Sunny becoming cloudy, 33. Hua Hin: fine and sunny morning, becoming cloudy this afternoon with a good chance of rain 35C 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 2024-05-30 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe