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In the wake of criticism over anonymous Senate voting, the Election Commission (EC) has defended the process, stating it conforms to legal parameters that cannot be revised by the EC alone. Speaking on the matter, EC Secretary General, Sawang Boonmee, reiterated the commission's unyielding compliance with the law. He highlighted that senatorial candidates are mandated to reveal their identities solely to eligible voters and emphasised the public's role in overseeing the voting process. Aiming to boost transparency, the Thailand EC has launched the "Smart Vote" mobile app and a related website. These platforms will share pertinent information about candidates, including their biographies and career backgrounds. Via email or the LINE app, senatorial candidates can publicise their profiles to voters. Addressing a query on the introduction of senatorial candidates, Sawang assured that all actions, including those by Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, the influential figure from the Move Forward Party, uphold legal standards. He detailed the timeline for senate candidate declaration and voting, stating that it will commence post the issuing of a royal decree and conclude within a two-month span. Modern communication channels like social media and online platforms have been incorporated for candidate introductions. Sawang added that while the media can report and critically assess election proceedings, they must avoid defamation of candidates. He emphasised the EC's preventative measures against corrupt practices and ensured fair play through a well-defined legal structure and process. Picture courtesy of National News Bureau of Thailand -- 2024-05-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Several Illegal Migrant Workers Arrested in Pattaya Picture: Courtesy of The Pattaya News In Pattaya, 45 illegal workers from Burma were taken into custody during a police operation on Friday, May 3rd. The Chonburi law enforcement acted on a tip from residents worried about the migrant laborers occupying a building in their neighborhood. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326529-several-illegal-migrant-workers-arrested-in-pattaya/

In Pattaya, 45 illegal workers from Burma were taken into custody during a police operation on Friday, May 3rd. The Chonburi law enforcement acted on a tip from residents worried about the migrant laborers occupying a building in their neighborhood. Under the leadership of Pol. Lt. Col. Weerachai Thinkamoot, Chonburi's Deputy Superintendent of Immigration Police, a squad descended on the reported building in the Nongprue sub-district of Chonburi province. Their investigation revealed 107 rooms catered to both Thai locals and foreign workers. In the operation, some individuals tried to escape, but police apprehended 45 persons, comprising of 13 women and 32 men. Immigration authorities further held these detainees at the Chonburi Immigration Office in Pattaya for processing. The review of their passports and visas uncovered a breach of immigration laws. Eight laborers had breached their visa tenure, and 15 others were in Thailand unlawfully without correct documentation. Mr. Ittipat and his son, Mr. Kriangsaak, managers of the said property, reported to the immigration office, denying knowledge about renting to individuals residing in Thailand illegally. They added that they were oblivious to the laws concerning accommodation rental to migrant workers. Pol. Lt. Col. Weerachai briefed Mr. Ittipat and Mr. Kriangsaak on Thai rental laws concerning alien employees. Following this, the detained laborers were informed about their infringements and the possible deportation to their homeland. Picture: Courtesy of The Pattaya News -- 2024-05-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya Removes Motorbike Taxi Stand to Restore Walkway Access Picture courtesy of Siam Rath The city authorities of Pattaya, under the direction of Deputy Mayor Mr. Wuthisak Rermkitchakit, interfered with a motorbike taxi stand that was reportedly encroaching upon a public footpath on Second Road. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326527-pattaya-removes-motorbike-taxi-stand-to-restore-walkway-access/

Picture courtesy of Siam Rath The city authorities of Pattaya, under the direction of Deputy Mayor Mr. Wuthisak Rermkitchakit, dismantled a motorbike taxi stand that was reportedly encroaching upon a public footpath on Second Road. The stand was alleged to have unauthorized makeshift sunshades, constructed from old umbrellas and advertising boards, obstructing the pedestrian path near the Tops Intersection. This action was taken on Wednesday, May 1st. The unattractive sunshades created a displeasing visual. Officials, therefore, removed these makeshift constructions to restore the public footpath to its original state. The move is a bid to enhance the aesthetics of the area and make the footpath more accessible to pedestrians. Additionally, an agreement was reached with the motorbike taxi drivers who were operating from this stand. They were instructed not to invade public spaces further, and any future encroachment may lead to legal consequences. -- 2024-05-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Rescue Operation Saves Chinese Student from Kidnapping Attempt Picture courtesy of Khaosod A Chinese student was rescued by Thai police following a kidnap attempt by a scam gang who demanded a seven-million-baht ransom. The 23-year-old, Dan Wei Su, was lured from Australia and threatened with visa revocation if she didn't comply. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326526-rescue-operation-saves-chinese-student-from-kidnapping-attempt/

A Chinese student was rescued by Thai police following a kidnap attempt by a scam gang who demanded a seven-million-baht ransom. The 23-year-old, Dan Wei Su, was lured from Australia and threatened with visa revocation if she didn't comply. She first received communication from the scammers impersonating Chinese police, who falsely accused her of financial fraud. Under threat of arrest, Su was coerced to fly to Thailand. Upon arriving in Suvarnabhumi Airport on April 30, Su was scheduled to proceed to Chiang Mai and then to Chiang Rai, with plans to cross into another country. Local police were alerted about her activities around 7:50 pm, and with joint efforts from the Region 5 Provincial Police and the Crime Suppression Division of Samut Prakan, she was found in a hotel room in Chiang Mai's Mueang district. The rescue occurred while Su was on a call with the gang. After the intervention, she was safely transported to the police headquarters for investigation and assistance. Following the rescue, Su was returned to her family, and legal actions are underway with the Chinese embassy being notified. Police Major General of Region 5, Kritthaphon Yisahakorn, revealed that the case falls under the jurisdiction of Samut Prakan province, where Su will file her complaint. Efforts are underway to track down the scam gang within Region 5, with promises of swift action upon their location. The incident underscores the dangers of international scam syndicates and the necessity of intercountry law enforcement cooperation. The ongoing investigation aims to apprehend the culprits and dismantle the network to prevent similar attempts in the future. Picture courtesy of Khaosod -- 2024-05-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Chamber of Commerce Promotes 10 Provinces for Tourism Mun River. Picture courtesy of Wikipedia The Thai Chamber of Commerce (TCC) has revealed plans to develop ten provinces as prime tourist locations. The scheme, approved by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, aims to spotlight provinces such as Phrae, Lampang, Nakhon Sawan, Nakhon Phanom, Sisaket, Chanthaburi, Ratchaburi, Kanchanaburi, Trang, and Nakhon Si Thammarat. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326525-thai-chamber-of-commerce-promotes-10-provinces-for-tourism/

The Thai Chamber of Commerce (TCC) has revealed plans to develop ten provinces as prime tourist locations. The scheme, approved by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, aims to spotlight provinces such as Phrae, Lampang, Nakhon Sawan, Nakhon Phanom, Sisaket, Chanthaburi, Ratchaburi, Kanchanaburi, Trang, and Nakhon Si Thammarat. The goal is to distribute tourism benefits evenly and stimulate local economies effectively. The initiative's purpose is threefold. First, it illustrates these provinces' untapped attractions, like Lampang's historical temples and Trang's pristine natural beauty. Second, it focuses on infrastructural development in these cities so they are ready to comfortably accommodate higher numbers of tourists. Lastly, the plan aims to strengthen domestic tourism and small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs), major contributors to Thailand's economy. In line with this, TCC is developing schemes to support SMEs. Measures include enhancing access to funds, encouraging digital transformation, and offering mentoring programmes to improve competitiveness. The intention is to equip SMEs with resilience and adaptability, preparing them for a higher influx of tourists. Furthermore, to boost Thailand's economy further, TCC is joining forces with international collaborators such as Food Valley Netherlands, with a focus on improving agricultural productivity and revenue. The TCC also plans to explore branding opportunities for Thai products globally, particularly silk. The Prime Minister's forthcoming visit to Italy provides an excellent opportunity to promote Thai products to the international market. TOP: Mun River. Picture courtesy of Wikipedia -- 2024-05-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Suspected Arson in Ayutthaya Warehouse Fires Picture courtesy of Naewna Officials are suspecting arson for the recent fires engulfing chemical and industrial waste warehouses in Phachi district, Ayutthaya, according to Jullapong Thaveesri, the outgoing director-general of the Industrial Works Department. This is due to evidence from a previous fire at one of the affected warehouses, also attributed to arson. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326524-suspected-arson-in-ayutthaya-warehouse-fires/

Officials are suspecting arson for the recent fires engulfing chemical and industrial waste warehouses in Phachi district, Ayutthaya, according to Jullapong Thaveesri, the outgoing director-general of the Industrial Works Department. This is due to evidence from a previous fire at one of the affected warehouses, also attributed to arson. In the last three months, three fires have occurred at these warehouses. Pol Maj-Gen Watcharin Phusit, head of the Natural Resources and Environment Crime Suppression Division, said arrest warrants for the warehouse owners would be sought, citing potential charges of illegal possession of hazardous chemicals and management of industrial waste. Team of firefighters contained the blazes at two of the five warehouses on Wednesday, with about 50 fire trucks involved in the operation. They faced difficulties due to the harsh smell from the burning chemicals. Following the fires, Phachi sub-district's municipality announced their district hospitals' temporary closure due to high levels of airborne chemical residue. As a substitute, a field hospital was established at Kok Muang Temple, treating 28 patients, including nine with eye and throat irritations. As a part of their swift response, the Ayutthaya medical emergency operations centre evacuated hospital patients and screened around 600 people living near the fire site, with 74 experiencing mild eye irritations and nausea. Despite havoc, 26 people sheltered in an evacuation centre have returned home after their communities were declared safe. Tap water has also been deemed safe for consumption. Picture courtesy of Naewna -- 2024-05-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Legendary Liverpool Players Meet Thai PM Srettha Thavisin Picture courtesy of infoquest Renowned former Liverpool players, Robbie Fowler, Steve McManaman, and Michael Owen, met with Thailand's Prime Minister, Srettha Thavisin, at Government House on May 3. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326523-legendary-liverpool-players-meet-thai-pm-srettha-thavisin/

Renowned former Liverpool players, Robbie Fowler, Steve McManaman, and Michael Owen, met with Thailand's Prime Minister, Srettha Thavisin, at Government House on May 3. The Liverpool legends presented the PM with an official red t-shirt of the English Premier League football club, bearing the number 30 and his name, Thavisin. Dressed in black t-shirts with 'Amazing Thailand' imprinted on them, the trio are in Thailand for Liverpool fan club events over the weekend. They expressed their enthusiasm to savour Thai food and visit Phuket. Prime Minister Srettha proposed the idea of a friendly football match in Thailand, involving either Liverpool and Manchester United or ex-Liverpool players between the ages of 40 and 60. This prospect recognises the substantial fan base both premier league teams have in the Southeast Asian nation. Earlier in 2022, a pre-season match between Liverpool and Manchester United was held at Bangkok's Rajamagala stadium, with Manchester United emerging victorious with a 4-0 win. TOP Picture courtesy of infoquest -- 2024-05-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Bangkok Upgrades Infrastructure: Underground Cables for Safety and Appeal File photo for reference only The National Broadcasting and Telecommunication Commission (NBTC) and the Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA) in Thailand are taking steps to improve safety and aesthetics in Bangkok by replacing overhead communication cables with underground alternatives. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326522-bangkok-upgrades-infrastructure-underground-cables-for-safety-and-appeal/

The National Broadcasting and Telecommunication Commission (NBTC) and the Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA) in Thailand are taking steps to improve safety and aesthetics in Bangkok by replacing overhead communication cables with underground alternatives. Hanging communication cables, common in cities and suburbs of Thailand, pose risks such as fire hazards and cables falling onto roads. To mitigate these dangers, the NBTC is teaming up with the MEA and private firms across various provinces to transfer these cables into underground conduits. However, the expense of this operation is significant, costing 10 times more than above-ground installations. Without financial assistance from the Thai government, many private companies find it challenging to keep up. The majority of the time, NBTC and MEA synergize their efforts; when electricity poles are scheduled for disposal, communication cables are transitioned into conduits. Additionally, the NBTC is in charge of managing above-ground cables, including identifying inactive or out-of-service cables for disposal. File photo for reference only -- 2024-05-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Outrage Over Public Indecency in OnlyFans Bangsean Beach Video Picture courtesy by MGR A viral OnlyFans video showing a man and woman involved sexually on Bangsean Beach, Chonburi, has sparked public anger. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326520-outrage-over-public-indecency-in-onlyfans-bangsean-beach-video/

A viral OnlyFans video showing a man and woman involved sexually on Bangsean Beach, Chonburi, has sparked public anger. The couple was seen performing indecent acts against a coconut tree along the Bangsean beachside path, somewhere known as a family-friendly spot. The video's circulation online has resulted in widespread condemnations, with residents terming the act as inappropriate. Local traders expressed their disbelief and questioned why the couple did not consider filming in a more private location, like hotels or resorts. They further called on authorities to address the issue, primarily due to the potential negative influence on youth. As it stands, local law enforcement is reportedly investigating the incident, with a possible prosecution for the couple under Thai obscenity laws. The viral video has emphasized the negative impact, not only on the ethical standards of the community but also on Bangsean’s reputation as a family-friendly locality. Picture courtesy by MGR -- 2024-05-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Saturday 4 May 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1326519-thailand-live-saturday-4-may-2024/

The Thai office and co-working space industry, which had been hit hard due to a drop in local demand amid the pandemic, is now seeing a surge in occupancy rates attributed to expatriates working for multinational firms. This is according to IWG Plc, a UK-based office services company operating numerous brands. Thailand is catching up with Singapore as a preferred work destination for expats: Experts Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326507-thailand-is-catching-up-with-singapore-as-a-preferred-work-destination-for-expats-experts/

Justice Sought: Thai Woman's Taxi Ride Ends at Wrong Airport Picture for reference only A Thai woman is seeking compensation after a taxi, booked through a ride-hailing app, mistakenly took her to the wrong airport in Bangkok resulting in her missing her flight. Her identity has been kept confidential for privacy. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326477-justice-sought-thai-womans-taxi-ride-ends-at-wrong-airport/

A Thai woman is seeking compensation after a taxi, booked through a ride-hailing app, mistakenly took her to the wrong airport in Bangkok resulting in her missing her flight. Her identity has been kept confidential for privacy. The woman posted the incident, which occured in February, on Facebook, expressing dissatisfaction over the driver and the app's lack of responsibility. The driver countered by stating that she neglected to monitor the journey's progress. According to the woman's interview with Channel 7, she had an early flight for a business trip to Phitsanulok and booked a taxi from her residence in Sukhumvit to Don Mueang International Airport. Engrossed in her phone, she didn't realise she had been taken to Suvarnabhumi International Airport until she was nearing it. Her attempts to reach Don Mueang in time failed, and she missed her flight. In a video shared on Facebook, the woman can be seen demanding the driver pay for her replacement flight, only to have the driver counter that she should have alerted him about the incorrect route. She reached Don Mueang at 7.30am, too late for her original flight, and had to wait five hours for the next one. The driver didn't charge her for the ride but refused to compensate for her new flight. This misadventure resulted in significant work and financial loss for her. Despite reporting the issue to the app and the Land Transport Department, she has not received any compensation or positive response to date. Top Picture for reference only -- 2024-05-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Maid Inherited Fortune from French Boss Picture courtesy of TNA-MCOT A French expatriate living in Surat Thani, Thailand, committed suicide and left her fortune to her loyal Thai housekeeper. Catherine, 59, took her own life on April 29 at her residence in Koh Samui district, where she resided for over a decade. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326474-thai-maid-inherited-fortune-from-french-boss/

A French expatriate living in Surat Thani, Thailand, committed suicide and left her fortune to her loyal Thai housekeeper. Catherine, 59, took her own life on April 29 at her residence in Koh Samui district, where she resided for over a decade. Catherine's body was found with a single gunshot wound and no signs of a break-in or theft. CCTV footage showed her using her laptop and adjusting a security camera at her home on the day before her death. Catherine, who had recently divorced and suffered from cancer, reportedly left behind an estimated fortune of upwards of 50 million baht. Prior to her death, Catherine had drawn up a legal will allocating her entire wealth to her housemaid, Nattawalai Phupongta, who had been in her service for more than 17 years. Nattawalai, also known as Aunt Tim, was informed about Catherine's suicide the following day. She had received a message from Catherine just before the incident, where she noted that all her wages and bills had been completely paid. In addition, Catherine had transferred 500,000 baht for her funeral costs. Nattawalai expressed her gratitude to Catherine and vowed to organize a fitting farewell. Picture courtesy of TNA-MCOT -- 2024-05-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

UPDATE: British Man Faces Deportation from Thailand Over Online Criticisms Picture: Naewna Thai Tourist Police are pushing for a UK man's deportation due to his negative comments about Thailand on social media. Full. story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326342-british-tourist-warned-over-criticism-of-thailand-online/?do=findComment&comment=18887506

British Man Faces Deportation from Thailand Over Online Criticisms Picture: Naewna Thai Tourist Police are pushing for a UK man's deportation due to his negative comments about Thailand on social media. The man, known only as Thomas, posted YouTube videos criticising Thai authorities, laws, and its citizenry. Thomas's criticisms ranged from corruption in the police force to Thailand's COVID-19 vaccination campaign. He claimed that Thai people were easily manipulated by the upper class and the government, noting that 98% of Thais had received the COVID-19 vaccine through government manipulation, leading to his labelling them as 'zombies'. He further implied the prevalence of bribes in dealings with the Thai police, claiming he had to pay to get certain items. He also stated that his mother, a Thai national, gained a travel agency license for a business that could be passed on later. Additionally, Thomas mentioned obtaining a license for a cannabis shop set to open in April. Found and interviewed in Pai district by police, Thomas was informed his remarks were tarnishing Thailand's image and endangering national security. He was directed to remove all videos containing negative comments about Thailand and was briefly detained at Pai Police Station for potential charges. The Tourist Police commander confirmed that Thomas's actions were law violations, with specific details yet to be clarified. Additional evidence will be supplied to the Immigration Bureau to bolster the deportation case. While Thomas is currently in Thailand on a tourist visa, it is unclear if his claims about his Thai mother are factual. -- 2024-05-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe