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Picture courtesy: 77kaoded A Thai man landed in police custody for allegedly distributing crystal meth at several 7-Eleven outlets in Thailand. The suspect, identified as Nattaphong, was apprehended for hiding drugs in various locations within the stores. Law enforcement was alerted by a vigilant observer who grew suspicious of the man's actions near the 7-Eleven stores along Samut Prakan province's King Kaew Road. Nattaphong, aged 39, was caught by authorities while trying to discretely stash a pack of drugs at a store kiosk. During questioning, Nattaphong confessed to using ziplock bags with magnets to attach the drugs surreptitiously to shelves and top-up kiosks. He admitted to purchasing the substances from a woman in Bangkok's Khlong Toey district and selling them at a marked-up price. The police recovered 16.37 grams of crystal meth from various concealment spots, including shelves holding everyday items such as soda, jam, and dog food. Further investigations led to the seizure of assets linked to the drug supplier, Nun, amounting to over 1 million baht. Picture courtesy: 77kaoded This incident is part of a recent uptick in law enforcement activities around 7-Eleven stores in Thailand. In a separate case, a Thai individual was fined in March for consuming alcohol outside a store, sparking a debate on the legality of such actions. The arrest of the Thai man underlines the heightened vigilance of Thai authorities against drug-related activities, even within seemingly benign locations like convenience stores. 77-2.mp4 Vide courtesy: 77kaoded -- 2024-05-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Govt Gambling on Integrated Entertainment Complex with Casino Picture courtesy: Freepik Thai Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat has revealed plans for a new integrated entertainment complex that will include a casino, but with restrictions on its size. The casino component will be limited to no more than 5% of the overall project area. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327140-thai-govt-gambling-on-integrated-entertainment-complex-with-casino/

Thai Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat has revealed plans for a new integrated entertainment complex that will include a casino, but with restrictions on its size. The casino component will be limited to no more than 5% of the overall project area. Similar to Singapore's model, where gambling areas make up only 3% of the total complex, the Thai government aims to strike a balance between entertainment offerings and responsible gambling. The project, which also features hotels and other investments, is currently under scrutiny by the Finance Ministry to assess its feasibility. A special House committee has conducted a study on the potential impacts of the development, which will be presented to the Cabinet for further evaluation. The project's details, such as location, regulations, and revenue generation, will be discussed with relevant agencies to ensure its smooth implementation. Measures will be put in place to address potential negative consequences of the integrated entertainment complex, including the establishment of a fund to mitigate any gambling-related issues. The government is considering new legislation to regulate the project effectively and ensure that it complies with existing laws on gambling and entertainment venues. Implementing a casino tax and setting appropriate rates for fees and taxes on the gambling component are also part of the plan. As Thailand ventures into the realm of integrated entertainment complexes, the government aims to strike a balance between economic growth and responsible gambling practices to benefit both the country and its citizens. Picture courtesy: Freepik -- 2024-05-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Growing Concerns: Bank of Thailand's Independence Amid Economic Rebound Picture courtesy: Thai Rath The Bank of Thailand's independence has sparked a heated debate in recent days, as political figures clash over its autonomy. Pheu Thai Party leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra's remarks have ignited a feud between the central bank and the coalition government. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327138-growing-concerns-bank-of-thailands-independence-amid-economic-rebound/

The Bank of Thailand's independence has sparked a heated debate in recent days, as political figures clash over its autonomy. Pheu Thai Party leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra's remarks have ignited a feud between the central bank and the coalition government. However, experts and officials are emphasizing the importance of the central bank's independence while also advocating for collaboration with government bodies. Former central bank governor Prasarn Triratvorakul highlighted the necessity of maintaining autonomy while working in tandem with state agencies to ensure financial stability. Prasarn stressed the critical role of the central bank in overseeing financial institutions to avert risks and uphold stability. While this approach may not sit well with everyone, he emphasized that it is vital for long-term economic health. Enrico Tanuwidjaja of UOB Group echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach between monetary and fiscal policies to prevent economic instability. Economist Nonarit Bisonyabut underscored the detrimental impact of the government-central bank rift on the economy. He called for improved communication and cooperation between the parties to avoid further damage. On the economic front, Asia Plus Securities (ASPS) projected that the rising inflation rate could deter the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) from cutting interest rates. The government's push for rate cuts to support economic recovery, despite the central bank's reservations, has added fuel to the fire. Prateep Tangmatitham, CEO of Supalai, argued for a reduction in interest rates to boost economic activity, especially for vulnerable groups hit hard by the pandemic. Saravoot Yoovidhya, CEO of TCP Group, urged Thai authorities to learn from international models of collaboration between central banks and governments, likening the relationship to various departments working together towards a common goal. As tensions simmer, the future of the Bank of Thailand's independence remains uncertain, raising concerns about its impact on Thailand's economic recovery. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-05-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Anutin Announces Formal Study on Cannabis Legal Status Picture courtesy: M-Thai Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced a formal study will be conducted before any changes to cannabis's legal status Cannabis Advocates Plan Protest Against Drug Classification Change Cannabis supporters are gearing up to protest the government's plan to classify cannabis as a narcotic drug. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327137-anutin-announces-formal-study-on-cannabis-legal-status/

Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced a formal study will be conducted before any changes to cannabis's legal status Cannabis Advocates Plan Protest Against Drug Classification Change Cannabis supporters are gearing up to protest the government's plan to classify cannabis as a narcotic drug. They vow to gather outside the Ministry of Public Health until solid scientific evidence supports the move. Meanwhile, some farmers, who have been growing cannabis legally since its decriminalization in 2022, back the government's stance. They argue that an oversupply has caused prices to crash. Prasitchai Nunual, from the Cannabis Future Network, insists that any decision by the ministry must be based on scientific proof of cannabis's benefits and risks compared to alcohol and cigarettes. The ministry has 15 days to provide evidence to sway the pro-cannabis groups. If convinced, they'll accept the decision. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin hinted at allowing medical cannabis even after reclassification. The government promises to consider all views before the Narcotics Control Board makes the final call. Supporting the government, Montri Yiamsung-noen reports that 90% of the farmland in their network lies idle due to plummeting prices. Picture courtesy: M-Thai -- 2024-05-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Luxury Home Burglars in Songkhla Nabbed as They Strive to Settle Debts Picture courtesy: Matichon Two burglars were apprehended in Songkhla after breaking into three upscale properties in a single night. The culprits, seeking to repay debts accrued from a previous crime, made off with valuable items such as amulets and a Rolex watch. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327134-luxury-home-burglars-in-songkhla-nabbed-as-they-strive-to-settle-debts/

Two burglars were apprehended in Songkhla after breaking into three upscale properties in a single night. The culprits, seeking to repay debts accrued from a previous crime, made off with valuable items such as amulets and a Rolex watch. Following an investigation led by law enforcement officers in Songkhla province, including Police Colonel Dusit Promsin and his team, the thieves - identified as 32-year-old Atchariya and 34-year-old Samchai - were caught. The pair had been involved in a previous armed robbery and resorted to burglary to pay off debts stemming from bail money borrowed to secure their previous release. The authorities relied on CCTV footage to track down the duo, who had also been implicated in a high-profile gun theft from Union Fire Arms. Despite recovering all stolen weapons and some items taken during the recent burglaries, the police continue their pursuit of unrecovered valuables. Atchariya and Somchai confessed that their return to burglary was an attempt to settle debts with a fellow gang member, Somsak, from the previous gun robbery case. However, their criminal activities to repay debts have now resulted in their arrest, with the prospect of bail appearing slim given the recurrence of their offenses. The police have taken custody of the burglars and are initiating legal proceedings for their latest crimes. Picture courtesy: Matichon -- 2024-05-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thaksin’s Attempt to Mediate Peace in Myanmar Faces Challenges File photo: Thaksin Shinawatra Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's recent efforts to mediate peace talks in Myanmar have hit a roadblock, with experts suggesting that the initiative may be premature. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327133-thaksin’s-attempt-to-mediate-peace-in-myanmar-faces-challenges/

Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's recent efforts to mediate peace talks in Myanmar have hit a roadblock, with experts suggesting that the initiative may be premature. Thaksin reportedly met with representatives of Myanmar's dissident National Unity Government (NUG) and ethnic armed organizations (EAOs) in April but faced resistance in his attempt to mediate a truce between the EAOs and the country's ruling State Administration Council (SAC) junta. According to Dulyapak Preecharush, an expert from Thammasat University, the SAC is unlikely to engage in peace talks with the EAOs, whom they consider as terrorists. The EAOs refused to sign any binding documents granting Thaksin a mandate to mediate, leading to doubts about the success of his efforts. Thaksin's move has also created confusion in the Thai government, with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin claiming to be unaware of the initiative. While the government expressed its desire for peace in Myanmar, it distanced itself from Thaksin's actions, stating that he was working in a personal capacity. Thaksin, known for his engagement with Myanmar during his time in power, previously attempted peace talks through the "Bangkok Process" in 2003. However, his recent initiative faces skepticism due to the complex political landscape in Myanmar and the SAC's reticence towards dialogue with the EAOs. The international community remains watchful of developments in Myanmar, with questions arising about Thailand's foreign policy towards its neighbor. Despite Thaksin's efforts, the government's policy remains in line with previous stances guided by the Foreign Ministry, National Security Council, and the Army. As Thaksin's mediation efforts encounter obstacles, it is clear that achieving peace in Myanmar will require a more nuanced and inclusive approach involving various stakeholders and international partners. File photo: Thaksin Shinawatra -- 2024-05-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand tackles smog crisis with door-to-door campaigns against agricultural fires Chiang Mai file photo for reference only In a bid to combat the country's seasonal air pollution crisis, national parks in Thailand have taken to door-to-door campaigns to educate locals on the dangers of using fire to clear plantations and agricultural waste. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327132-thailand-tackles-smog-crisis-with-door-to-door-campaigns-against-agricultural-fires/

In a bid to combat the country's seasonal air pollution crisis, national parks in Thailand have taken to door-to-door campaigns to educate locals on the dangers of using fire to clear plantations and agricultural waste. The Forest Protection and Fire Control Office at the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) has reported a 38% decrease in manmade forest fires this year compared to 2023, thanks to enhanced cooperation from local communities. Manmade fires are identified as the main cause of smog in rural areas, with research showing that millions of hectares of land are burnt due to seasonal fire-lighting practices. Efforts to tackle the smog crisis have improved, but more proactive measures are needed to fully resolve the issue, according to experts. The Royal Forest Department's budget for preventing forest fires arrived late this year, impacting operations to extinguish fires during the peak smog season. Local administrative bodies have taken over monitoring forest reserves, but challenges remain in securing necessary funding for these efforts. In response to the ongoing smog crisis, initiatives like the FireD application developed by Chiang Mai University aim to manage fire control more efficiently by reviewing and approving outdoor fire-lighting requests based on weather conditions and air quality. The application is part of efforts to contain outdoor fires in the most effective manner. The worsening air pollution in Thailand has raised concerns about its impact on public health, with a growing number of cases of lung cancer attributed to heavy smog. The dangers of PM2.5 fine dust have become more apparent, prompting calls for stricter measures to mitigate the health risks associated with poor air quality. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has made several work trips addressing the smog crisis this year, while the government has set up a committee for sustainable solutions to air pollution. Provincial commands and volunteer checkpoints have been established to support efforts to prevent forest fires and protect conservation areas. With various measures in place to combat the smog crisis, Thailand is working towards reducing the impact of agricultural fires and improving air quality for its citizens. The door-to-door campaigns are just one aspect of a larger strategy to address the root causes of the country's enduring smog issues. TOP: Chiang Mai file photo for reference only -- 2024-05-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Welcomes FIFA President Gianni Infantino Picture courtesy: National News Bureau of Thailand Nualphan Lamsam, aka Madam Pang, rolled out the red carpet for FIFA President Gianni Infantino as he touched down in Bangkok ahead of the 74th FIFA Congress 2024, happening this week. Full story: Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327131-fifa-president-arrives-in-bangkok-for-74th-congress/

Picture courtesy: National News Bureau of Thailand FIFA President Gianni Infantino landed in Bangkok this week for the 74th FIFA Congress, hosted by Nualphan Lamsam, also known as Madam Pang. The event has drawn top football officials from across the globe, including AFC President Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa and former players like Youri Djorkaeff. Thailand is gearing up to host the Congress, with Nualphan expressing gratitude for the support received. The highlight of the event will be the selection of the host country for the 2027 Women's World Cup, with Belgium, Germany, Netherlands, and Brazil in the running. This marks a historic moment for Thailand as the first ASEAN country to host the prestigious FIFA event, showcasing the nation's growing influence in the world of football. -- 2024-05-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Bang Kruai District Faces Risk as Chao Phraya River Embankment Collapses Picture courtesy: Khaosod via Prachachat Residents of the Bang Kruai district were left alarmed as a large section of the Chao Phraya River embankment collapsed, stretching over 70 meters. Local Member of Parliament Anusorn Kaewwichian, along with officials, inspected the damage and advised residents to avoid the area for safety reasons. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327130-bang-kruai-district-faces-risk-as-chao-phraya-river-embankment-collapses/

Residents of the Bang Kruai district were left alarmed as a large section of the Chao Phraya River embankment collapsed, stretching over 70 meters. Local Member of Parliament Anusorn Kaewwichian, along with officials, inspected the damage and advised residents to avoid the area for safety reasons. At 10 am today, Anusorn and officials visited the embankment along the Chao Phraya River in Nonthaburi's Bang Kruai district following reports of its collapse. The extensive damage, starting near the Bang Kruai canal drainage gate and running over 70 meters, prompted concerns about the embankment's stability. The embankment, initially built in 2009 by the Nonthaburi Irrigation Department to enhance the drainage gate's infrastructure and the pumping station at Bang Kruai canal, showed signs of deterioration and had areas where it had completely given way. Some sections had gravel added for reinforcement. An investigation is ongoing to determine the cause of the collapse, as the exact reason remains unclear. Anusorn plans to inform the Nonthaburi provincial governor about the situation and has urged caution, with the Bang Kruai municipality cooperating to assess the site and warn residents to steer clear due to the shifting stones posing a risk. Previously alerted to breaches in the embankment by locals and the municipality, Anusorn raised concerns in parliament three times. Despite never facing severe flooding that overran the embankment before, water seepage concerns were addressed by the Electrical Generating Authority of Thailand. The authority funded measures to fill the breaches and reinforce the embankment with gravel. Authorities, including the Irrigation Department, continue to investigate the cause of the collapse. In the event of significant flooding, there is a risk of water overflow into residential areas via the Bang Si Thong canal, potentially affecting more than just low-lying regions and temple grounds. Picture courtesy: Khaosod via Prachachat -- 2024-05-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Monday 13 May 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327129-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-monday-13-may-2024/

A man's body was discovered encased in concrete inside a 200-liter barrel dumped in a reservoir, prompting suspicions that it could be ‘Roh Jong’, a Korean man abducted by three suspects in Bangkok. Divers located the plastic barrel at the bottom of a reservoir on Saturday night in Chon Buri. Police sought confirmation of his identity as all the victim's fingers had been severed. Earlier, Mr. Roh's mother received a phone call demanding 3 by Wednesday otherwise her son would be killed. She then sought assistance from the South Korean embassy in Bangkok to locate her son. FIFA President Gianni Infantino arrived in Bangkok yesterday for the 74th FIFA Congress 2024. Over 3,000 delegates from 211 member associations will gather at 'The Queen Sirikit National Convention Center' from May 13 to 17th, marking Thailand as the first ASEAN country to host this event. The Congress will address football challenges, with the highlight being Friday's vote to determine the host for the 2027 Women's World Cup. People have been warned not to approach a collapsed section of an embankment along the Chao Phraya River in Nonthaburi. A Move Forward Party MP warned people to stay away from the section which stretched for about 70 metres. Around the region. Indonesia, At least 34 people have died and 16 more were missing after flash floods and cold lava flow from a volcano hit West Sumatra. Buildings were damaged and vehicles washed away, The death toll was likely to increase as searches continue for those missing. Todays’ WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: Sunny becoming Cloudy with thundershowers, 36 degrees celsius. Bangkok: sunny becoming Cloudy with thundershowers, 34 Pattaya: Cloudy with showers 32, Phuket and the south: Becoming Cloudy, with thundershowers 34 Hua Hin: Bright but cloudy, 32. AQIYellow to Orange, moderate to high Green clear, yellow moderate, Orange High, Red unhealthy. Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, Royal Coast Review, Kulsawek Sawekwannakorn, Thainewsroom.com, 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 2024-05-13 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Squirrel Causes Cable Fire in Chonburi Picture courtesy: Naew Na A load of electrical and communication cables went up in flames today in an alley at Saha Group Industrial Park in Sri Racha district, Chonburi. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327127-squirrel-causes-cable-fire-in-chonburi/

A load of electrical and communication cables went up in flames today in an alley at Saha Group Industrial Park in Sri Racha district, Chonburi. A video clip captured the moment when the furry culprit climbed up a pole and chewed on the electrical cables, causing a short circuit and setting off the fire. Quick-thinking locals alerted the Fire Department to prevent the fire from spreading uncontrollably. The fire caused a power outage in the area, prompting officials to cut off the electricity supply for safety reasons. Firefighters swiftly extinguished the flames, averting a potential disaster. Repair teams were deployed to assess the damage and restore the power supply. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and safeguarding electrical installations to prevent such accidents from happening in the future. Picture courtesy: Naew Na -- 2024-05-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Residents of Chachoengsao Province on High Alert Due to Electronic Waste Dumping Picture courtesy: Siam Safety Recent reports out of Chachoengsao province have brought to light a concerning situation involving the dumping of electronic waste and sulphur on empty land in the Sanam Chai Khet district. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327126-residents-of-chachoengsao-province-on-high-alert-due-to-electronic-waste-dumping/

Recent reports out of Chachoengsao province have brought to light a concerning situation involving the dumping of electronic waste and sulphur on empty land in the Sanam Chai Khet district. The area where the waste has been dumped is raising alarms due to fears that toxic chemicals may seep into a nearby canal, which serves as a vital water source for numerous villages. Officials from the provincial industrial works department have already visited the site to collect samples from the bags of waste and the canal for further testing at a lab. Results are anticipated within the next 30 days. Local residents have reported troubling changes in the water near the dump site, which has taken on a dark color and emits a foul smell. With continued rain in the forecast, there is growing concern that the contaminated water may flow into the canal located a mere four metres away. Experts like Sonthi Kotchawat, specializing in environmental and health matters, are urging authorities to promptly remove the bags of waste for proper disposal and implement measures to prevent further contamination of the waterway. Sapthavee Kulsaree, the mayor of Tha Kradan Tambon Administrative Organisation, has highlighted the sandy nature of the dump site as a factor that could facilitate the leakage of polluted water into the canal. While expressing the urgency of the situation, he also noted that the issue falls outside his jurisdiction. The situation remains a cause for concern among residents, who are advocating for swift action to address the growing environmental threat posed by the dumping of hazardous waste in the area. Picture courtesy: Siam Safety -- 2024-05-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand's Regulator May Take Action Against AIS for Service Disruption Picture courtesy: Thai PBS Thailand's National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) has demanded an explanation from mobile phone provider AIS following a service disruption on Friday evening. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327125-thailands-regulator-may-take-action-against-ais-for-service-disruption/

Thailand's National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) has demanded an explanation from mobile phone provider AIS following a service disruption on Friday evening. NBTC chairman Sarana Boonbaichaiyapruck has stated that AIS, as one of the country's major mobile service providers, must clarify the cause of the disruption and provide compensation to affected customers. Boonbaichaiyapruck, who was personally impacted by the disruption, has warned that AIS could face sanctions if they fail to offer a satisfactory explanation for the incident. In response, AIS has issued an apology and pledged to compensate affected subscribers. The company plans to send out SMS messages to customers, including those on unlimited and other packages, outlining the compensation they can expect by Monday. -- 2024-05-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe