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Picture courtesy: Khaosod In a case that has captivated the nation's attention, seven-year-old Nong Bel has disappeared in alarming circumstances connected to his father, Naveesak Saetaw. This dire situation follows a violent encounter wherein Naveesak reportedly strangled Nong Bel and threatened his life with a knife, all to force the boy’s mother into reconciling with him. The spotlight on this distressing case intensified when local celebrity and activist, Kanthaswat Phongphaibulwes, mobilised a search team along with law enforcement, only to come up empty-handed. Kanthaswat's emotional plea on social media to locate Nong Bel underscores the urgency of the search. He shared chilling details of the father’s actions, recounting how during a video call, he held the boy at knife-point, coercing the mother to return. The background is littered with abuse: not only did Naveesak force-feed the child bathroom cleaner in a previous incident, he had also subjected the mother, Ms A, to such cruel torment, driving her to a suicide attempt carried out using the same substance. Escaping a hellish reality, Ms A, aged 34, had left Naveesak four months before this incident, fleeing his relentless domestic abuse and drug-fuelled violence. Tragically, she could only take one of her children, leaving Nong Bel behind. Since then, the boy became a pawn in his father’s attempts to blackmail and intimidate her. In their whirlwind search, Kanthaswat and Ms A, alongside police, discovered Naveesak’s rented room in Samut Sakhon vacant. The father's elusive behaviour has seen him continuously shift meeting locations, deepening the mystery and concern surrounding Nong Bel’s whereabouts. Neighbours’ reports further cloud the situation: While they saw the father return to his room late at night, the boy was conspicuously absent. By the next morning, both were gone again. As hours pass and hopes wane, the community remains on edge, braced for any snippet of information that might lead to Nong Bel’s rescue. Authorities ask the public to remain vigilant, particularly for sightings of the father and son, last seen on a white Honda Wave motorcycle. The urgency of reuniting Nong Bel with his mother has never been clearer, as the hunt for him presses on with a growing sense of dread and determination. Picture courtesy: Khaosod -- 2024-05-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Woman Defies Online Drama, Sells Durian in Bikini Picture courtesy: Facebook/ นุ้ง' อั้ม A Thai woman, Aranya, known as Aum, has once again stirred the pot on social media by selling durian in a bikini. The 22-year-old vendor, operating from Kamphaeng Phet in northern Thailand, initially sparked controversy two years ago for her unconventional attire while selling the popular tropical fruit. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327362-thai-woman-defies-online-drama-sells-durian-in-bikini/

A Thai woman, Aranya, known as Aum, has once again stirred the pot on social media by selling durian in a bikini. The 22-year-old vendor, operating from Kamphaeng Phet in northern Thailand, initially sparked controversy two years ago for her unconventional attire while selling the popular tropical fruit. Despite some online backlash accusing her of relying on her looks rather than the quality of her product, Aum's business has thrived. She's back this year, continuing to sell durians dressed in colourful bikinis, both in-person by the roadside and through livestreams on her Facebook account. In a recent interview with ThaiRath, Aum stressed that the allure of her shop isn't just about her attire. She prides herself on providing top-quality Monthong durians, sourced from a reputable plantation in Rayong. Despite some fresh online criticism, Aum remains unfazed, maintaining that her choice of clothing is a matter of personal preference and style. Adding a social element to her enterprise, Aum has invited friends to join her at the shop this year, though they don't adopt her provocative style. Beyond her durian sales, Aum is also a glamorous model, often sharing photos on her social media. This is not the first time a Thai vendor has gone viral for wearing revealing clothing. In March, Nathaphat “Boom Bim” Boonmee drew nationwide attention to her mango stall in Samut Prakan with her sexy dresses. Another vendor, 24-year-old Aranya “Olive” Aphaiso, also gained fame for her revealing outfits while selling snacks in Chiang Mai. Picture courtesy: Facebook/ นุ้ง' อั้ม The trend of using striking and unusual tactics to boost sales in the Thai market seems to be making headlines more frequently. While opinions on such strategies vary, one thing is clear: Aum's business remains fruitfully successful amid the controversy. TOP Picture courtesy: Facebook/ นุ้ง' อั้ม -- 2024-05-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Bangkok Chaos: Pickup Plummets From 4/FL Hospital Car Park Picture courtesy: Facebook/ Nonthawat Wisutthipat In a startling early morning incident, a Thai woman sent a pickup truck airborne from the fourth floor of a Bangkok hospital's multi-storey car park. Miraculously, no injuries were reported. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327361-bangkok-chaos-pickup-plummets-from-4fl-hospital-car-park/

In a startling early morning incident, a Thai woman sent a pickup truck airborne from the fourth floor of a Bangkok hospital's multi-storey car park. Miraculously, no injuries were reported. The events began to unfold at a parking structure in Bangkok's Phayathai district, at Phramongkutklao Hospital. As the morning rush hour kicked into gear around 7:24 AM on May 15th, a seemingly ordinary parking manoeuvre took a dramatic turn. CCTV footage from the car park depicted a scene straight out of an action film. The lady driver, in her golden bronze Toyota Hilux Vigo, collided with a stationary black Toyota Hilux Revo. The black pickup was sent soaring over the car park's edge, plummeting onto the street below. Picture courtesy: Facebook/ Nonthawat Wisutthipat A separate street-level CCTV camera captured the pandemonium ensued as pedestrians and motorists alike dove for cover. The blanket of dust left behind in the wake of the plummeting pickup bore testament to the near-miss; two passing motorcyclists, having just left the spot where the car landed, were incredibly lucky to escape unharmed. Onlookers report that the driver of the Vigo, a woman believed to be between 40 and 50 years old, appeared severely shaken as she awaited police from the Phayathai Station. Speaking to media later, she confessed that she had panicked when another car drove too close to her vehicle, causing her foot to hit the accelerator. The owner of the ruined black pickup, who makes his living as a daily vendor at the hospital, proved remarkably understanding about his vehicle's dramatic end. Having resolved the matter amicably regarding the compensation, he confessed to being upset over the loss of his cherished car. This incident takes us back to a similar accident reported in Nonthaburi province, near Bangkok, in August 2022, where a driver had intentionally crashed his car through a shopping mall car park, falling onto the road below. While authorities sort out today's incident, one thing is certain – parking in multi-storey car parks in Bangkok has certainly taken on a more daring dimension. TOP Picture courtesy: Facebook/ Nonthawat Wisutthipat -- 2024-05-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Eyes FIFA World Cup 2038 Hosting Rights Picture credit: Wikimedia. For reference only As the ball spins further into the future, Thailand's newly appointed Minister of Tourism and Sports, Sermsak Pongpanich, has astoundingly set his eyes on an epic goal. He announced plans for Thailand to bid for hosting rights of the FIFA World Cup from 2038 moving forward, with emphasis on a joint venture together with other Southeast Asian nations. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327360-thailand-eyes-fifa-world-cup-2038-hosting-rights/

As the ball spins further into the future, Thailand's newly appointed Minister of Tourism and Sports, Sermsak Pongpanich, has astoundingly set his eyes on an epic goal. He announced plans for Thailand to bid for hosting rights of the FIFA World Cup from 2038 moving forward, with emphasis on a joint venture together with other Southeast Asian nations. The ambitious announcement was made alongside the backdrop of the prestigious 74th FIFA Congress held in Bangkok last week. It is important to note that the hosts for the World Cup events up to 2034 have been confirmed already. Previously, an attempt by Thailand and other Southeast Asian countries to secure the 2034 event failed, with the rights subsequently awarded to Saudi Arabia in October last year. A seasoned political figure, the 78-year-old former Culture Minister, Sermsak Pongpanich, brings a fresh wave of energy and innovative ambitions to his role. Hosting this FIFA Congress signifies a huge moment for Thailand. FIFA, being the global governing body of football, holds immense influence and the presence of over 3,000 international visitors, all key players in the football industry, further bolsters Thailand's hopes. Playing host to 211 different international delegations, including high-profile leadership such as FIFA’s President Gianni Infantino, this event builds a solid stage for Thailand's grand aspirations. Furthermore, the gathering provides a pivotal opportunity for Thailand to establish and enhance its credibility within the football universe, especially critical amidst an era of FIFA corruption scandals. However, the road to the goal isn't without its challenges. The hosting rights for the World Cup events for 2026, 2030, and 2034 are already claimed. The stage in two years’ time is set to be North America, with the United States, Mexico, and Canada set to welcome this football fiesta following Qatar in 2022. The 2030 and 2034 events will be held in Spain, Portugal, Morocco and Saudi Arabia respectively. Thailand is now hoping to ally with other Southeast Asian nations for a joint bid for 2038 or perhaps even 2042. There is widespread belief that the World Cup should venture again into the domains of Africa or Asia next. But as we all know, in the fluid and often uncertain world of football, nothing can be taken as a given. For now, a lot of groundwork lies ahead for the Thai Minister and his colleagues, both domestically and across Southeast Asia. With the deadline for the 2038 bid approaching in 2030, it’s about time that the planning, strategising and lobbying kicks off in earnest. Picture credit: Wikimedia. For reference only -- 2024-05-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 16 May 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1327358-thailand-live-thursday-may-16-2024/

Embattled Move Forward Party Given another Lifeline by Constitutional Court Photo courtesy of Thai PBS In an unprecedented turn of events, the Constitutional Court has bestowed a respite on the beleaguered Move Forward party. Today, they granted a third and final 15-day extension, lasting until 2nd June, for the party to prepare its defence against the Election Commission's call for the court to dissolve it. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327344-embattled-move-forward-party-given-another-lifeline-by-constitutional-court/

In the peaceful province of Phang Nga, a gruesome discovery has shocked the local residents. On the morning of May 15, the lifeless body of an unidentified foreign man was found on a roadside near Ban Na Road in Takua Thung district. Following the grim discovery, Sub-District Chief Yutthanakorn Juanjenkit connected with officers from Khok Kloi Police station. Mystery Surrounds Foreigner's Body Found in Phang Nga Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327328-mystery-surrounds-foreigners-body-found-in-phang-nga/ Photo courtesy of The Thaiger

Truth at the Toll Booth: The Real Lives of Thailand's Motorway Collectors Unveiled Picture courtesy: MGR Recent online chatter turned the spotlight onto the everyday lives of motorway toll collectors in Thailand, sparking a wave of curiosity and some rather fanciful speculation. It all began with a simple question from a TikTok user named ummie..28 that quickly went viral: Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327306-truth-at-the-toll-booth-the-real-lives-of-thailands-motorway-collectors-unveiled/

Recent online chatter turned the spotlight onto the everyday lives of motorway toll collectors in Thailand, sparking a wave of curiosity and some rather fanciful speculation. It all began with a simple question from a TikTok user named ummie..28 that quickly went viral: "Has anyone ever wondered how toll booth operators get to and from work?" This innocent query ignited a frenzy of theories across social media, with some even playfully imagining toll collectors parachuting from helicopters to reach their posts, and others pondering how they handle bathroom breaks during their shifts. Amidst the online frenzy, a toll booth operator stepped up to clarify the realities of their job. He shared that toll booth workers use service paths along the motorways for commuting. Should they need a bathroom break, another staff member temporarily takes over while they walk to the nearby toll plaza, where facilities like restrooms and break areas are readily accessible. "Toll booth operators meet at a designated location and from there, are transported to various toll booths. Depending on the location, they might get a lift or drive themselves to work," he explained. "For those who drive, parking is available at the plaza, complete with stairs leading up to the booths. The shifts are well-defined, and the annual bonuses are quite generous." The Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT) also weighed in on the discussion via their Facebook page, confirming that toll booth operators commute like everyone else, either by personal vehicle or public transport. Those driving their own cars are required to pay the usual toll fees. EXAT also mentioned that in addition to the toll booths, there are dedicated buildings for operational duties and staff rest areas. Each plaza offers parking for employees, including both ground-level and elevated booths, with stair access for the latter. Moreover, if a reserve employee needs to step in for an absent colleague, the collections department provides a shuttle service between plazas to ensure smooth and convenient travel. This clearer picture of toll booth operators' daily routines has not only debunked the whimsical myths circulating online but also offered an intriguing glimpse into an often-overlooked aspect of urban life. It serves as a reminder of how even the seemingly mundane can fascinate and fuel speculation, showcasing the collective curiosity behind our screens. TOP Picture courtesy: MGR -- 2024-05-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Superrich Struggles as Savvy Tourists Opt for Travel Cards Picture courtesy: Facebook Superrich Renowned for its iconic orange brand, Superrich Currency Exchange (1995) Co is facing challenging times. Despite an influx of foreign visitors, transaction growth has flatlined in the first four months of this year, with the rise of travel cards signaling a shift in tourist preferences. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327305-superrich-struggles-as-savvy-tourists-opt-for-travel-cards/

Picture courtesy: Facebook Superrich Renowned for its iconic orange brand, Superrich Currency Exchange (1995) Co is facing challenging times. Despite an influx of foreign visitors, transaction growth has flatlined in the first four months of this year, with the rise of travel cards signaling a shift in tourist preferences. Superrich, a household name in currency exchange, saw its 2023 transaction volume remain steady at 32 billion baht (approximately £728 million), mirroring figures from last year. However, this stagnation has cast a cloud over the company's 2024 outlook. President and CEO Piya Tantivachyanon pointed to the growing lean towards digital payments as the primary culprit. "Tourism has picked up, both outgoing and incoming. However, tourists are now favouring travel cards over traditional cash exchanges," said Piya. This change poses a challenge for Superrich, deeply rooted in cash transactions. The company now projects a significant drop in net profit to around 100 million baht (approximately £2.3 million) in 2024, down from over 200 million baht (approximately £4.6 million) in previous years. Efforts to branch into the travel card market have been thwarted by regulatory hurdles. Despite engaging in talks with the Bank of Thailand, travel cards remain exclusively within the purview of banks as debit card services, presenting a major setback for Superrich. In a bid to stay relevant, Superrich has secured an e-wallet licence from the central bank and is in the final stages of testing this digital system. The company aims to launch its e-wallet service by the end of 2024, enabling transactions via QR codes and cash cards at their physical outlets. "We are transitioning towards digital services and a cashless society. Superrich must evolve to keep up with the digital age," Piya explained. Superrich has invested approximately 100 million baht in digital technology over recent years, but these changes have also led to a slowdown in their physical expansions, which currently stand at 34 outlets. Meanwhile, regional competitor YouTrip – Southeast Asia’s top multi-currency digital payments platform – exemplifies the digital shift’s potential. Since its 2018 debut in Singapore, YouTrip has handled payments worth £7.8 billion via its travel card and boasted a remarkable 180% increase in payments and profitability in 2023 compared to the prior year. This growing trend towards digital solutions leaves traditional money changers like Superrich facing an uncertain future, prompting a necessary pivot to adapt to the evolving market dynamics. -- 2024-05-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Drastically Cuts Satellite Auction Prices to Entice Bidders Picture courtesy: Thaicom In a move aimed at rejuvenating interest, Thailand’s National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) has significantly slashed the prices for its upcoming satellite orbital slots auction. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327303-thailand-drastically-cuts-satellite-auction-prices-to-entice-bidders/

In a move aimed at rejuvenating interest, Thailand’s National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) has significantly slashed the prices for its upcoming satellite orbital slots auction. Eyeing the unsold slots from a previous auction, the NBTC hopes to attract more bidders this time around. Scheduled to take place between August 23 and September 7, the auction will feature satellite orbital positions at 50.5° East, 51° East, and 142° East. The NBTC's board-approved revised auction conditions, formally ratified on May 13, promise more attractive terms for potential participants. Pachara Naripthaphan, an advisor to the NBTC chairman, acknowledged that the January auction’s failure to sell these slots prompted the changes. In that auction, Space Tech Innovation, a Thaicom company, secured two packages for the equivalent of £9 million and £9.8 million, respectively. Meanwhile, National Telecom snapped up a third package at a mere £213,000. In an effort to avoid losing these orbital positions under International Telecommunications Union regulations, the NBTC has extended the satellite launch deadline from three to five years after obtaining a licence. More strikingly, the starting bid prices have been dramatically slashed. An anonymous NBTC source revealed that the opening price for the 50.5°E and 51°E positions has been reduced to £974,000 from £8.9 million. Similarly, the 142°E slot now starts at £546,000, down from £4.51 million. This massive reduction reflects the difficulty in commercialising these slots, which primarily serve the Caribbean and Middle East. Additionally, the new terms require winning bidders to return at least 2.5% of their total revenue to the state. Failure to meet the launch and business operation criteria will incur hefty fines, equivalent to the original starting auction prices of £8.9 million for the 50.5°E and 51°E slots, and £4.51 million for the 142°E slot, according to the source. With these revisions, the NBTC is keen to secure participants and ensure that Thailand retains these valuable orbital positions, driving growth in the nation’s satellite communication sector. TOP Picture courtesy: Thaicom -- 2024-05-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Unveils 10-Year Visa to Attract Top Global Talent Picture for reference only. Courtesy of Gwengoat via iStock In a bid to transform its Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) into a bustling industrial hub, Thailand’s government has introduced a groundbreaking 10-year visa aimed at attracting top-tier professionals and experts from around the world. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327302-thailand-unveils-10-year-visa-to-attract-top-global-talent/

In a bid to transform its Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) into a bustling industrial hub, Thailand’s government has introduced a groundbreaking 10-year visa aimed at attracting top-tier professionals and experts from around the world. The new EEC visa, endorsed by the Thai Cabinet, stands as a strategic move to draw skilled individuals into the country’s key industries, according to Deputy Government Spokeswoman, Rudklao Intawong Suwankiri. Visa Perks and Tax Benefits This innovative visa allows for a five-year stay with the possibility of extension, along with multiple entries, depending on the length of the employment contract. It's designed around four core categories: specialists, executives, professionals, and their families. Adding to its allure, the government has introduced a competitive personal income tax cap of 17% for those who decide to live and work in the EEC. This figure is a significant reduction from Thailand’s existing top tax rate of 35%, highlighting the nation’s commitment to boosting its economic outlook. “The EEC visa aims to enhance national competitiveness by promoting the country’s target industries. It is expected to attract global experts and contribute significantly to the development of the EEC,” said Rudklao. Agricultural Advancements on the Horizon In tandem with the introduction of the new visa, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has directed the Agriculture and Cooperatives Ministry to formulate an extensive plan to modernise Thailand’s agricultural infrastructure. The goal is to transform the nation into a leading agricultural and food production hub, potentially tripling local farmers’ incomes. Government Spokesman Chai Wacharonke added that this directive aligns with Thailand's aspiration to become a global agricultural centre, enhancing food security worldwide. The detailed strategy is expected by month’s end, with rapid implementation to follow in June. The comprehensive plan will focus on developing Thailand as a plant genetics centre, improving agricultural water management, promoting soil health, and using satellite technology to combat agricultural burning. “Detailed project plans should be ready by the end of May, with substantial action commencing immediately thereafter,” said Chai. Strengthening International Ties Further cementing its agricultural ambitions, the Thai Cabinet has approved a memorandum of understanding to enhance agricultural collaboration with Saudi Arabia. This move underscores Thailand’s commitment to achieving its agricultural and economic goals on the international stage. TOP Picture for reference only. Courtesy of Gwengoat via iStock -- 2024-05-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Phetchaburi Unveils Ambitious Plan to Draw 10 Million Tourists Annually File photo: Tham Khao Luang Cave. Courtesy: Wikimedia The Ministry of Tourism and Sports has rolled out an exciting plan aimed at welcoming over 10 million tourists to Phetchaburi Province each year. The initiative was unveiled against the picturesque backdrop of Phetchaburi on May 13, just ahead of the Cabinet meeting. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327296-phetchaburi-unveils-ambitious-plan-to-draw-10-million-tourists-annually/

The Ministry of Tourism and Sports has rolled out an exciting plan aimed at welcoming over 10 million tourists to Phetchaburi Province each year. The initiative was unveiled against the picturesque backdrop of Phetchaburi on May 13, just ahead of the Cabinet meeting. Leading the charge, Tourism Minister Sermsak Pongpanich emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to spotlighting Phetchaburi as a top-tier travel destination. He said, "Our goal is to generate 3.5 trillion baht in revenue by promoting 11 key industries, with a focus on Phetchaburi's cultural heritage, delicious cuisine, arts, and vibrant local traditions." The strategy aims to incorporate various stakeholders, including local businesses and community groups, to elevate the number of tourists to a minimum of 10 million yearly. This influx is expected to inject an estimated 35 billion baht into the local economy. Central to this vision is the creation of a seamless tourism experience that connects major attractions like Phra Nakhon Khiri Historical Park and Khao Nang Phanthurat Forest Park. The initiative also seeks to empower local communities, ensuring they benefit directly from the tourism boom. Efforts include upgrading facilities and launching extensive promotional campaigns to put Phetchaburi on the global map. Recent statistics are encouraging, with Phetchaburi seeing a 20.26% rise in tourist visits in 2023 and a 9.93% increase in the first quarter of 2024. These figures point to a promising future for the province as it gears up to become a major tourism hub. Hua Hin Today highlights that with determined efforts and strategic planning, Phetchaburi stands on the brink of unprecedented growth in the tourism sector. File photo: Tham Khao Luang Cave. Courtesy: Wikimedia -- 2024-05-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Vietjet Ends Direct Flights from Phuket to Chiang Rai File photo: Thai Vietjet Air, HS-VKA, Airbus A320-214. Credit: Wikimedia In a sudden move, Thai Vietjet has ceased its direct flights between the northern city of Chiang Rai and the popular Andaman coastal destination, Phuket. The budget airline has not provided any explanation for the abrupt cancellation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327295-thai-vietjet-ends-direct-flights-from-phuket-to-chiang-rai/

In a sudden move, Thai Vietjet has ceased its direct flights between the northern city of Chiang Rai and the popular Andaman coastal destination, Phuket. The budget airline has not provided any explanation for the abrupt cancellation. The change surfaced in the May flight timetable shared by Mae Fah Luang Chiang Rai International Airport and posted on social media. The last flight reportedly took place on May 12, according to the schedule and flight tracking service FlightAware, which indicated that Thai Vietjet's final flight, VJ400, landed in Chiang Rai at 10:25 am. The direct service, which started in November 2023, was operated using a 180-seat Airbus A320. Thai Vietjet offered four flights a week on this route—Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, and Friday—with round-trip fares averaging around $140. Flight VJ400’s typical schedule had it leaving Phuket at 8:37 am, arriving in Chiang Rai at 10:25 am, and returning from Chiang Rai at 10:55 am to land back in Phuket by 1:05 pm. Chiang Rai Airport has struggled since losing international status during the Covid-19 pandemic, with all international flights stopping indefinitely. Before the pandemic, the airport was serviced by several Chinese airlines and had seasonal flights to Singapore with Thai AirAsia, but efforts to restore international connectivity have faced difficulties. The airport's revival efforts are further hampered by ongoing air quality issues, making the region less attractive to airlines. Consequently, flights primarily focus on domestic destinations, with the most competitive fares and services being routes to Bangkok offered by five airlines: Vietjet, Thai Lion, Thai Airways International, Nok Air, and AirAsia. The end of Thai Vietjet's direct Phuket-Chiang Rai service has been attributed to competition from cheaper travel options via Chiang Mai. Tourists often fly to Chiang Mai and then take a bus to Chiang Rai, a cost-effective choice, especially for families. With this latest route suspension, Chiang Rai Airport's flight offerings remain limited compared to the broader and more competitively priced options available from Chiang Mai. File photo: Thai Vietjet Air, HS-VKA, Airbus A320-214. Credit: Wikimedia -- 2024-05-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Wednesday 15 May 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327293-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-wednesday-15-may-2024/

Another South Korean suspect linked to the murder of a man found dead in a concrete-filled barrel near Pattaya has been apprehended in Phnom Penh. The 27-year-old was arrested following a tip-off. Authorities are still searching for the third and final suspect, believed to have crossed from Thailand into Myanmar. The government appears set to approve a raise in the minimum daily wage to 400 baht a day from the 1st of October, tyesterdays cabinet meeting also approved collection of 7 percent ‘V.A.T’ on goods with a value of 1,500 baht or more ordered online from overseas platforms. The idea is to protect small and medium-sized Thai businesses. The minister of justice will meet another activist who’s on hunger strike, following the death yesterday of a 28 year old who had refused food since january, after the Court revoked her bail on a charge of lèse majesté following a protest related to a royal motorcade. The minister said he wanted to see first hand the condition of the other female protester who is also on hunger strike. Thailand had the most ransomware attacks in Southeast Asia last year, according to the Russia-based cybersecurity company Kaspersky. Thailand became a major target for cyber criminals who launch sophisticated attacks on businesses both commercial and government service platforms. Stolen personal and business data is then offered for sale on the dark web, Often attackers will demand money from a company or individuals to restore their data and compromised systems. Around the region: China announced that Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit Beijing on Thursday this week and meet with leader Xi Jinping. Analysts say Russia is increasingly dependent on China as a crucial economic lifeline since the West launched unprecedented sanctions over its military offensive in Ukraine. Todays’ WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: Sunny becoming Cloudy with thunderstorms, 37 degrees celsius. Bangkok: Cloudy with thunderstorms 34. Pattaya: Thunderstorms, 32. Phuket and the south: Cloudy, with thunderstorms 33 Hua Hin: Partly cloudy, could see some rain, 33. AQI: 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 2024-05-15 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Airways Offloads Boeing and Airbus Jets in Slimdown Effort File photo: Thai Airways, Boeing 777-200, courtesy Wikipedia BANGKOK-THAILAND: In a strategic move towards financial recovery, Thai Airways International (THAI) has successfully sold its entire fleet of 18 decommissioned aircraft. This fleet includes a mix of six Boeing 777-200s, six Boeing 777-300s, and six Airbus A380s. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327292-thai-airways-offloads-boeing-and-airbus-jets-in-slimdown-effort/