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Bangkok's New Drainage System Halves Flood Clearance Time Picture courtesy: Somchai Poomlard/Bangkok Post Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt announced that the newly implemented drainage system on Udomsuk Road has significantly improved rainwater clearance efficiency. The announcement comes after heavy rainfall swept through the city, prompting an on-site assessment by the governor. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327937-bangkoks-new-drainage-system-halves-flood-clearance-time/

Picture courtesy: Somchai Poomlard/Bangkok Post Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt announced that the newly implemented drainage system on Udomsuk Road has significantly improved rainwater clearance efficiency. The announcement comes after heavy rainfall swept through the city, prompting an on-site assessment by the governor. In light of heavy floods and The Meteorological Department of Thailand's (TMD) declaration of the rainy season, Chadchart inspected Udomsuk Road, also known as Sukhumvit Soi 103. Remarkably, the upgraded drainage system reduced the time required to clear rainwater to just half an hour. Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) officials reported that the new o-gutter system, which replaced outdated infrastructure, has greatly boosted drainage performance. This system not only drains water swiftly but is also easier to clean, thereby reducing the risk of blockages that typically lead to flooding. Chadchart mentioned that the surrounding footpaths were also upgraded to further enhance the area’s drainage capacity. Once the damaged Bueng Nong Bon drainage tunnel is repaired, additional improvements in the drainage efficiency of Udomsuk Road and other sections of Bang Na district are expected. In a related update, Deputy Bangkok Governor Tavida Kamolvej introduced an action plan called "Nine Plans, 9 Disasters," focused on addressing various disasters, including floods during the rainy season. This plan will be presented to the Interior Ministry’s committee on disaster prevention and mitigation in the coming month. Moreover, the BMA will outline its future initiatives and achievements in a presentation next Tuesday, marking the second anniversary of Chadchart’s tenure. Key accomplishments include the opening of 21 new public parks, the planting of around 400,000 trees, and improved waste separation processes that have reduced daily waste by up to 700 tonnes. Additionally, the lunch budget for schools and nurseries under the BMA’s jurisdiction has been increased. The TMD’s 10-day weather forecast indicates a southwest monsoon, bringing scattered rain and thunderstorms until Saturday, with a brief lull before rain picks up again mid-next week. -- 2024-05-23 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand and Bhutan Commence Free Trade Talks for 2025 Deal Picture courtesy: MGR online Thailand and Bhutan have officially launched negotiations for a comprehensive free trade agreement (FTA), aiming to finalise the deal by next year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327933-thailand-and-bhutan-commence-free-trade-talks-for-2025-deal/

Thailand and Bhutan have officially launched negotiations for a comprehensive free trade agreement (FTA), aiming to finalise the deal by next year. This significant development was confirmed by Thailand's Deputy Commerce Minister, Napintorn Srisunpang. Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay signed the terms to start FTA discussions, aligning both nations towards a shared goal of enhanced bilateral trade and investment. They plan to eliminate trade barriers and improve market access, particularly for agricultural products, targeting a trade volume of US$120 million (approximately 4.38 billion baht) by 2025. Apart from the FTA, discussions included the Mindfulness City project, a proposed economic hub and tourist gateway near Gelephu on the Indian border. The ambitious plan involves creating a city with low to mid-rise buildings centred around inhabitable bridges. These bridges will house key city elements such as a new international airport, a university, a hydroponic greenhouse, a cultural centre, a spiritual centre, local markets, and a hydroelectric dam. This project aims to establish a vital economic corridor connecting South Asia with Southeast Asia through India’s northeast, presenting lucrative opportunities for Thai businesses. Napintorn revealed that Thailand has requested more details on incentives and regulations concerning investment in these projects. Thailand and Bhutan share deep cultural bonds, rooted in Buddhist heritage and monarchical traditions, promoting robust economic cooperation in agriculture, tourism, investment, and handicrafts. Bhutanese tourists frequently visit Thailand for health services, and Bhutan plans to join a tourism festival in Thailand to boost its cultural and tourism profile. Thailand lauded Bhutan’s recent economic strides, noting its removal from the list of least developed countries in December last year. Thailand supports Bhutanese King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck's vision to turn Bhutan into a South Asian economic hub, aiming for Bhutan to become a high-income nation by 2034. Chotima Iemsawasdikul, Director-General of Thailand's Trade Negotiations Department, announced that the initial round of talks in May established the structure for the FTA. The next negotiation round is scheduled for August in Thailand, with the agreement expected to be completed by November 2025. The FTA will aim to boost competitiveness by eliminating tariffs and non-tariff barriers on key exports such as dry fruits, garments, rubber and plastic products, and electronic appliances. In 2023, trade between Thailand and Bhutan reached US$18.7 million, with the first quarter of 2024 recording US$3.06 million in trade. Key Thai exports to Bhutan include computers, textiles, wheat, electrical appliances, and ready-to-eat food, while Bhutan primarily exports aviation equipment, metal products, and fine arts to Thailand. Picture courtesy: MGR online -- 2024-05-23 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

UPDATE: Suspect Arrested after Stabbing Abbot at Temple in Thalang By Goongnang Suksawat A suspect was arrested after stabbing an abbot at a temple in Thep Krasattri. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327932-suspect-arrested-after-stabbing-abbot-at-temple-in-thalang/

A suspect was arrested after stabbing an abbot at a temple in Thep Krasattri. The Thalang Police Chief Colonel Nikorn Choothong told the Phuket Express that on Tuesday (May 21st) at 9:00 P.M. an arrest warrant had been issued for Mr. Thanakorn (Bank) Aroonrat, 38. He is being accused of attempted murder. On Wednesday (May 22nd) Bank was arrested in front of a market in Baan Phon, Sri Sunthorn. He was taken back to the Thalang Police Station for further legal action. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-05-23 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya Goes Green with Sustainable Electric Transportation By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya City is taking steps to become a smart city by promoting eco-friendly transportation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327930-pattaya-goes-green-with-sustainable-electric-transportation/

Pattaya City is taking steps to become a smart city by promoting eco-friendly transportation. As part of this initiative, the city has recently received 12 fully electric Hilux Revo–e pickup trucks from Toyota Thailand to be used as public Songthaews around the city. These vehicles are operated by the Pattaya Bus Cooperative and currently run on four routes including: Route 4 (5 vehicles): Laem Bali Hai – Banglamung District Office Route 5 (3 vehicles): Naklua – Jomtien Route 6 (3 vehicles): South Pattaya – Naklua Route 7 (1 vehicle): North Pattaya – Jomtien According to Pattaya Mayor Mr. Poramase Ngampiches, the project is part of the “Sustainable Prototype City Free from Pollution” initiative, which aims to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from transportation in Pattaya and lay the foundation for a pollution-free public transportation system. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-05-23 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Foreigner Poses as Immigration Officer, Assaults Pump Attendant video screenshot In a disturbing incident yesterday, a foreign man, appearing in his late 40s to early 50s, assaulted a petrol pump attendant in Udon Thani. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327925-foreigner-poses-as-immigration-officer-assaults-pump-attendant/

In a disturbing incident yesterday, a foreign man, appearing in his late 40s to early 50s, assaulted a petrol pump attendant in Udon Thani. Captured on CCTV, the man, who had a large build, was seen walking directly towards the attendant, slapping his face and engaging in a scuffle. The incident has left the attendant with a swollen face and some damaged property. The altercation happened around 7:00 AM in a petrol station within the municipal area. The attendant, 25-year-old Mr. Jirawat, reported to the police with the CCTV footage. He stated that the foreigner initially drove up in a new car, threw trash on the ground, and upon being questioned by the cashier, yelled in the local Isaan dialect, asking "What's the problem?" while claiming to be part of the immigration department. Unaware of what "immigration" (in local vernacular, "ตม.") meant, the cashier ignored his claims. The man then pretended to want petrol, but when asked to open the fuel cap, refused and instead parked near the exit. He returned on foot and assaulted the attendant seemingly without any provocation. Ms. Ma'am, a female staff member, observed that the man seemed familiar with Thai local culture and language, suggesting he might have been residing in Thailand for a while. She also noted that he appeared intoxicated since he nonchalantly posed for the camera as she recorded his vehicle’s licence plate. The police have sent the injured attendant for a medical examination to support the legal case. They plan to call in the victim and witnesses for further questioning before issuing a summons for the foreign national implicated in the assault. This incident has sparked concerns over the behaviour of foreign residents and the need for stringent checks to ensure public safety. Top: video screenshot -- 2024-05-23 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Thursday 23 May 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327924-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-thursday-23-may-2024/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin arrived in japan yesterday following a successful trip to Italy, he said Italian prime minister Ms Meloni offered to support Thailand's request for visa free travel in the Schengen region and a free trade agreement. He said: Thailand's negotiations with other Schengen states will likely be successful. The PM stated The Thai economy could face a recession amid rising prices, slow GDP growth, high household debt and bad loans. The Department of Education will amend its regulations to classify e-cigarettes as prohibited narcotics. The government aims to curb the growing use of e-cigarettes among students and has mandated schools nationwide to take action against vaping. New regulations will classify e-cigarettes as illicit drugs, and students caught with them will face severe penalties. Twenty people are still in intensive care in two Bangkok hospitals after being injured during severe turbulence on a Singapore Airlines flight, which made an emergency landing in Bangkok on Tuesday. In Bangkok… The Yellow Line monorail system is expected to resume service from June 10 after repairs are completed on a broken conductor rail, Repairs follow several incidents of bolts falling onto a road below the monorail at the end of March. March. Around the region: Australia reported its first human case of avian influenza in a child who the authorities said had been infected in India but made a full recovery. Health authorities said contact tracing had not identified any further cases, and there was a very low chance of others becoming infected The H5N1 strain of avian flu has swept the globe in recent years, Todays’ WEATHER Monsoon rains continue to sweep across the region Chiang Mai and the north: Cloudy with thundershowers, 29 degrees celsius Bangkok: Cloudy with thunderstorms 31. Pattaya: Cloudy, with thunderstorms, 32. Phuket and the south: Cloudy but dry 32. Hua Hin: Bright but cloudy, expect some rain this afternoon 32C 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 2024-05-23 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Lampang Woman Kills Husband Over Affairs With 5 Women Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV In a tragic turn of events, a woman in northern Lampang province reached her breaking point and killed her husband who had affairs with five other women. The incident occurred around midnight, leaving the community in shock. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327920-lampang-woman-kills-husband-over-affairs-with-5-women/

In a tragic turn of events, a woman in northern Lampang province reached her breaking point and killed her husband who had affairs with five other women. The incident occurred around midnight, leaving the community in shock. The harrowing episode unfolded in Bo Haeo subdistrict, where Mrs. Porn Kruathanu, 62, struck her husband, Mr. Dech Kruathanu, 63, with a hammer before stabbing him. Police rushed to the scene led by Pol. Maj. Gen. Bhumipanya Nawatrakul-phisut, the commander of Lampang provincial police. When authorities arrived at the scene, they found Dech's lifeless body on the road in front of their home, bearing signs of both blunt force trauma and stab wounds. Nearby lay the hammer used in the attack, which police confiscated as evidence. In an unexpected twist, Porn did not attempt to flee and awaited police inside her house. Upon interrogation, she revealed the volatile nature of their relationship. The couple frequently argued, largely due to Dech’s multiple extramarital affairs. Porn confessed that their latest quarrel escalated when Dech allegedly moved to attack her, prompting her to strike him with the hammer. Dech then fled outside and collapsed on the road, where Porn followed and stabbed him. The shocking incident has highlighted issues within their household, but police emphasised that the investigation is ongoing to determine the full motive behind the murder. They aim to discover whether other underlying factors contributed to this tragic outcome. This case has stirred conversations nationwide about domestic disputes and the severe consequences that can arise from unaddressed marital conflicts. As investigations progress, more details are expected to emerge, shedding further light on the circumstances leading to this grim event. Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV -- 2024-05-23 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

MRT Train Rainwater Leak Prompts Urgent Investigation Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Bangkok Expressway and Metro Public Company (BEM) has launched an urgent investigation after rainwater leaked into an MRT Blue Line train during a downpour. The incident occurred around 6:35 PM yesterday, as the train was travelling between Taopoon and Tha Phra stations. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327918-mrt-train-rainwater-leak-prompts-urgent-investigation/

Bangkok Expressway and Metro Public Company (BEM) has launched an urgent investigation after rainwater leaked into an MRT Blue Line train during a downpour. The incident occurred around 6:35 PM yesterday, as the train was travelling between Taopoon and Tha Phra stations. Startled passengers took to social media, with one image showing a commuter using an umbrella inside the carriage to shield themselves from the dripping water. BEM officials quickly responded by conducting a preliminary examination once the train reached Tha Phra station. Passengers were safely transferred to another train, and the affected train was taken out of service for a detailed inspection. This rapid response highlights BEM's commitment to passenger safety, but the company understands that the rainwater intrusion has triggered public concerns. In a statement released today, BEM reassured the public that all its trains are equipped with devices designed to prevent electrical short circuits and grounding systems to avert potential shocks. They emphasised that passenger safety remains their top priority, and such incidents are taken very seriously. Initial speculations suggest that the leak might have been due to an unforeseen weakness in the train’s structure or a lapse in maintenance. However, the full investigation aims to determine the exact cause and implement measures to prevent any recurrence. BEM is expected to release further updates as the investigation progresses. Meanwhile, regular maintenance checks and additional inspections are being conducted on all trains to ensure that such incidents do not become a recurring issue. For now, BEM advises passengers to report any unusual occurrences immediately to train staff and assures that all complaints will be addressed promptly. This incident serves as a wake-up call for BEM to bolster inspection routines and safeguard against any potential malfunctions, promising a secure and reliable commuting experience in the future. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-05-23 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Songkhla Eyes Legal Casino to Boost Border Tourism Picture courtesy: Wikipedia Tourism operators in Thailand's Songkhla province are urging the government to consider an integrated entertainment complex featuring a legal casino. They believe it could revitalise the local tourism industry, particularly in border areas heavily reliant on Malaysian visitors. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327916-songkhla-eyes-legal-casino-to-boost-border-tourism/

Picture courtesy: Wikipedia Tourism operators in Thailand's Songkhla province are urging the government to consider an integrated entertainment complex featuring a legal casino. They believe it could revitalise the local tourism industry, particularly in border areas heavily reliant on Malaysian visitors. Songchai Mungprasithichai, President of the Songkhla Tourism Promotion Association, sees potential in Ban Dan Nok and the area around the Sadao checkpoint. These regions, the main entry points in the South, could draw tourists interested in gambling. “At present, tourism growth in Songkhla is mostly centred around Hat Yai, with Malaysian visitors frequently bypassing Ban Dan Nok,” Songchai pointed out. “Tourism operators in Ban Dan Nok report a quiet market. Even in Hat Yai, tourist numbers fluctuate compared to the past.” During peak periods like the Songkran holiday in April and the Malaysian school holidays, occupancy rates climb to 90%. However, these figures typically drop by half post-holiday. Songchai mentioned that the demand for casino tourism would likely be high, citing the popularity of destinations like Genting in Malaysia, where legal casinos and resorts thrive. In March, Songkhla’s tourism income reached 3.7 billion baht, placing it tenth among Thai provinces. This impressive figure underscores the potential financial impact of a well-managed entertainment complex. Songchai also stressed the importance of regulating local gambling. He proposed clear regulations, such as a minimum income requirement for local gamblers. Moreover, he believes local communities should have a say in the establishment of a casino, considering the potential social impacts of legalised gambling. Despite being an Islamic country, Malaysia permits legal casinos in Genting, noted Songchai. He suggested an entertainment complex should include a variety of attractions like hotels and shopping to appeal to a broader audience, not just gamblers. The idea is to diversify Songkhla's tourism market beyond Malaysian visitors. Tourism operators have already engaged with the Tourism Authority of Thailand office in Kunming, China, aiming to attract more Chinese tourists via direct flights. With new attractions like an entertainment complex, Songkhla could offer a blend of seaside destinations and entertainment activities, appealing to various demographics and revitalising local tourism. -- 2024-05-23 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Uproar over Stark Scandal Suspect’s VIP Hospital Transfer Police General Hospital. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia The Department of Corrections (DoC) faced intense criticism yesterday for transferring Vonnarat Tangkaravakoon, a key suspect in the Stark Corporation scandal, to the Police General Hospital (PGH). Victims of the financial debacle accuse officials of granting him special treatment. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327915-uproar-over-stark-scandal-suspect’s-vip-hospital-transfer/

The Department of Corrections (DoC) faced intense criticism yesterday for transferring Vonnarat Tangkaravakoon, a key suspect in the Stark Corporation scandal, to the Police General Hospital (PGH). Victims of the financial debacle accuse officials of granting him special treatment. Affected investors, seeking transparency, petitioned Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong. They discovered that Vonnarat, the largest shareholder of Stark, was receiving medical care in what they believe to be a luxurious setting at the PGH. Vonnarat is among seven suspects charged with forgery, fraud, embezzlement, and money laundering under the Securities and Exchange Act. The alleged misconduct affected 4,704 shareholders and resulted in damages estimated at 14.7 billion baht. Detained at Bangkok Remand Prison since February 12 following a denied bail request, he was recently seen at the PGH. This has sparked outrage among the victims, who questioned the fairness of his treatment. Vonnarat was initially confined in the Corrections Hospital before his transfer. Dr Pongpak Areeyapinant, the Acting Director of the Corrections Hospital, addressed the controversy at a press conference. He stated that Vonnarat developed swollen testicles after a week in detention and was prescribed antibiotics for a suspected infection. A medical examination revealed a 5cm lump, likely malignant, prompting the transfer to PGH on April 23. Vonnarat underwent surgery on May 1. The atmosphere at the press conference was tense. Victims demanded details on who funded Vonnarat's medical costs, further fuelling suspicions over preferential treatment. The scandal continues to unravel, with victims and the public keenly watching for the next development in the pursuit of justice for all affected shareholders. TOP: Police General Hospital. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-05-23 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Judicial Process Under Scrutiny at Seoul Conference Attended By Pita Picture courtesy: Thai Rath During the Asian Leadership Conference (ALC) in Seoul, questions about Thailand’s judicial system took centre stage. Pita Limjaroenrat, former leader of the Move Forward Party in Thailand, was confronted by current and former global leaders who sought clarity on the state of political justice in his country. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327914-thai-judicial-process-under-scrutiny-at-seoul-conference attended-by-pita/

During the Asian Leadership Conference (ALC) in Seoul, questions about Thailand’s judicial system took centre stage. Pita Limjaroenrat, former leader of the Move Forward Party in Thailand, was confronted by current and former global leaders who sought clarity on the state of political justice in his country. The ALC is an annual event organised by Chosunilbo, South Korea’s largest daily news media outlet. This year’s conference is themed “The Era of Hyper-Uncertainty; Innovative Leadership for the New Future,” and brings together leaders to discuss pressing issues faced by Asia and the broader world. Pita gave his views on several global matters, including the political scenario in Thailand. Notably, today marks the 10th anniversary of the 2014 coup, led by then-army chief Prayut Chan-o-cha, which overthrew the elected government of Yingluck Shinawatra. However, the discussion quickly turned to the Thai judicial process, especially concerning political dissenters. Global leaders questioned Pita about the treatment of young political activists held in pre-trial detention. The case of Netiporn “Bung” Sanesangkhom, a Thai woman activist who died after a 110-day hunger strike to protest against being denied bail, was highlighted. Additionally, activists Tantawan “Tawan” Tuatulanond, 22, and three others continue their hunger strikes, demanding bail and improved judicial fairness in Thailand. Among those attending the conference were Yoon Suk Yoel, President of South Korea, Jacinda Ardern, former Prime Minister of New Zealand, Sanna Marin, former Prime Minister of Finland, Mike Pompeo, former US Secretary of State, and Rahm Emanuel, former White House Chief of Staff under President Obama and current Ambassador to Japan. Their presence underscored the global importance of the issues being discussed. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-05-23 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Fears for a Thai woman gone missing in Switzerland with a US man with sinister past by Carla Boonkong & Pranee O' Connor Concern for a Thai Woman missing in Switzerland with an American boyfriend with a sinister past. Nantiwa ‘Noon’ Saejiw vanished after moving to Switzerland. She announced she was getting married and going to live in the United States. Family anxious due to US man’s criminal history and an absence of contact from her since April 27th. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327913-fears-for-a-thai-woman-gone-missing-in-switzerland-with-a-us-man-with-sinister-past/

Concern for a Thai Woman missing in Switzerland with an American boyfriend with a sinister past. Nantiwa ‘Noon’ Saejiw vanished after moving to Switzerland. She announced she was getting married and going to live in the United States. Family anxious due to US man’s criminal history and an absence of contact from her since April 27th. Concern for a Thai Woman missing in Switzerland with an American boyfriend with a sinister past. Nantiwa ‘Noon’ Saejiw vanished after moving to Switzerland. She previously announced she was getting married and going to live in the United States. The family is anxious due to the US man’s history and an absence of contact since April 27th. A concerned Thai family has filed a missing persons report in Switzerland relating to a 32-year-old woman who has not been heard from since April 27th. Nantiwa Saejiw, known by her nickname ‘Noon,’ left Thailand just days after meeting a new American boyfriend from a dating app at the end of March. Noon’s family have been made particularly anxious by reports of previous criminal charges against the US man. The Thai Embassy in Switzerland has become involved in a search for a missing 32-year-old Thai woman. Nantiwa Saejiw, or ‘Noon,’ previously left her home in Thailand on March 28th. She went to meet an American she had gotten to know on a dating app. However, three days later, ‘Noon’ told her family that she was preparing to get married and would live in the United States. by Carla Boonkong & Pranee O' Connor Full story: Thai Examiner.com 2024-05-23 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

58 injured Singapore Airlines passengers still in Bangkok hospitals 58 of the passengers injured when Singapore Airlines Flight SQ321 encountered severe turbulence en route from London to Singapore yesterday are still being treated in hospital, including 20 who are in intensive care units (ICU), according to a statement from Bangkok’s Samitivej Srinagarind Hospital. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327912-58-injured-singapore-airlines-passengers-still-in-bangkok-hospitals/