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Chiang Mai — On October 3rd, 2024, Chiang Mai local media reported a Chinese man was seen floating in the strong currents of the Ping River near Nawarat Bridge in Chiang Mai, appearing relaxed as he filmed a video for social media. Despite the swift current, he seemed unbothered, causing concern among locals who witnessed the incident. A good Samaritan alerted authorities, and the Nakorn Ping Radio Center dispatched officers and rescue teams to assist. According to the Chiang Mai local media, they successfully rescued the Chinese man near Mengrai Bridge, after he had drifted 3-4 kilometers downstream. The man was publicly identified as Li Bin, a Chinese tourist. He was taken to Mueang Chiang Mai Police Station where officers from the Immigration Police charged him with “Causing a public nuisance and alarm.” By Kittisak Phalaharn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS -- 2024-10-05

Thai crackdown on activists ignites fresh tensions in Deep South by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Benar News Five activists in Thailand’s insurgency-plagued Deep South are facing the heat after hosting a mock referendum on self-determination. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339877-thai-crackdown-on-activists-ignites-fresh-tensions-in-deep-south/

Five activists in Thailand’s insurgency-plagued Deep South are facing the heat after hosting a mock referendum on self-determination. Yesterday, October 3, police charged two activists and three students for organising the event in June last year, sparking renewed debates about free speech in the volatile, heavily militarised border region. The group, which includes members of The Pattani political movement and the Pelajar Bangsa student group, faces accusations under Article 116 of the Thai Criminal Code. The charges carry a potential seven-year prison sentence for threatening national security. Their “crime”? A mock poll that asked attendees if they supported self-determination for Pattani, a historical region spanning Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat, and parts of Songkhla. “This case involves students’ freedom of expression. Academic spaces should be free.” Hussain Buenae, one of the charged students, emphasised the event’s academic nature. His co-defendant, Artef Sohko, voiced concerns about a rushed legal process. “We question whether the entire process has been hastily concluded.” The backdrop of this controversy is the Deep South’s decades-long separatist conflict, where over 7,500 lives have been lost since 2004, according to Deep South Watch. The region, predominantly Muslim Malay, has seen waves of unrest, with more than 22,200 incidents and 14,000 injuries during that period. Police, however, appear cautious, labelling the case “delicate.” Police Major General Nitinai Langyanai reassured that the proceedings were following due legal process. This case has broader implications for Thailand’s peace process with insurgents, which has seen mixed results since its resumption in 2020. Human rights organisations have also expressed concerns about the suppression of free speech in the region, with over 40 activists charged since 2017. The court hearing is set for November 13, leaving activists and observers questioning Thailand’s commitment to civil liberties, reported Benar News. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Benar News Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-05

Thai PM Paetongtarn Reflects on ACD Summit Success Picture courtesy: ROYAL THAI GOVERNMENT The Prime Minister expressed satisfaction with the success of her participation in the international forum. For the first time, leaders from many ACD countries are keen to cooperate in food, technology, and health tourism. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339876-thai-pm-paetongtarn-reflects-on-acd-summit-success/

Picture courtesy: ROYAL THAI GOVERNMENT Thailand's Prime Minister expressed satisfaction with the success of her participation in the international forum. For the first time, leaders from many ACD countries are keen to cooperate in food, technology, and health tourism. On October 3, 2024, at the Ritz-Carlton in Doha, Ms. Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the Prime Minister, discussed her experience at the 3rd Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD) Summit. During the meeting, many countries praised Thailand for its role as a facilitator of cooperation and mutual assistance. Several nations expressed interest in investing in Thailand, particularly in technology and education. Google's commitment to invest over 35 billion baht in cloud technology and education, as well as in Thailand's renowned food and medical tourism, was also well-received. The Prime Minister reaffirmed Thailand's commitment to promoting peace and shared prosperity. She discussed economic and technological issues with various leaders, including Mr. Masoud Pezeshkian, President of Iran, and His Highness Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani, the Ruler of Qatar, who showed interest in food security. Additionally, President Emomali Rahmon of Tajikistan expressed his love for Thai seafood and his desire to promote it. The Prime Minister also invited investments in the Land Bridge project. Reflecting on her meetings, she noted the renewed energy for cooperation and emphasized the need to strengthen relationships among countries. The Prime Minister expressed satisfaction with the initial outcomes of the ACD meeting, highlighting increased interest in economic cooperation and opportunities for Thailand and its citizens, reported the Royal Thai Government. -- 2024-10-05

Thailand's Cashless Leap: Ahead of the Asean Pack by 2028 Picture courtesy: Sanook Thailand is on track to outpace its Southeast Asian neighbours in becoming a cashless society, propelled by a rapid uptake in digital payment methods. A recent survey by Visa, a global payment service giant, indicates that Thailand could transition to a cashless economy as early as 2028, beating the broader ASEAN timeline by a few years. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339871-thailands-cashless-leap-ahead-of-the-asean-pack-by-2028/

Thailand is on track to outpace its Southeast Asian neighbours in becoming a cashless society, propelled by a rapid uptake in digital payment methods. A recent survey by Visa, a global payment service giant, indicates that Thailand could transition to a cashless economy as early as 2028, beating the broader ASEAN timeline by a few years. Visa's Consumer Payment Attitude Study highlights that 22% of Thai respondents expect a cashless transition by 2028, higher than the ASEAN average of 16%. Pushing the agenda further, Thailand ranks third in the region for minimising cash use, with only 47% of wallet contents being physical cash, just behind Vietnam and Malaysia. The national platform, PromptPay, appears at the heart of this shift, having significantly driven digital payment adoption, particularly notable after the pandemic. The increase in electronic transactions has also been facilitated by widespread smartphone use. In fact, a staggering 97% of Thais report weekly usage of mobile banking apps, leading peers in the region. Mr Punnamas Vichitkulwongsa, Visa Thailand's country manager, acknowledged that although PromptPay has enhanced digital financial interactions and supported Visa business, its success has also challenged Visa’s traditional debit card operations. With a post-pandemic rise in debit card cancellations, Visa plans to combat this with new technologies like the Click-to-Pay system, slated for launch next year. Furthermore, Thailand leads the regional charge in real-time payment (RTP) adoption, with 86% of respondents engaging in RTP activities weekly. This reflects a growing trust in digital transactions across the nation, reported Bangkok Post. Despite these advancements, household debt levels and limited access to credit facilities mean debit cards still play a crucial role in many Thai consumers' digital payment landscapes. Visa intends to bridge these gaps while reinforcing card security for the future. TOP Picture courtesy: Sanook -- 2024-10-05

to continue Thailand Live Saturday 5 October 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1339860-thailand-live-saturday-5-october-2024/

Elephants and other sick animals evacuated from flooded shelter (vIdeo) National park officials, boats and FWD trucks are rushing to an elephant conservation centre in Mae Taeng district of Chiang Mai to evacuate about 100 elephants and hundreds of other animals, as floodwater reaches two metres and is still rising. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339861-elephants-and-other-sick-animals-evacuated-from-flooded-shelter/

Corruption scandal hits the brakes: Thailand’s bus industry whistleblows dirty dealings Photo by Chaowanon J via flickr A shocking revelation has swept through the coach bus industry of Thailand as several anonymous companies have blown the whistle on rampant corruption within the Land Transport Department‘s vehicle inspection process. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339842-corruption-scandal-hits-the-brakes-thailand’s-bus-industry-whistleblows-dirty-dealings/

Bangkok Streets to Undergo Significant Improvements File photo for reference only Bangkok’s city streets are set for a major revamp, with City Governor Chadchart Sittipunt leading efforts to address enduring urban issues. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339848-bangkok-streets-to-undergo-significant-improvements/

At a significant ceremony for the 66th birthday of Newin Chidchob, the de facto leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, blessings were bestowed upon party leader Anutin Charnvirakul, aiming for his future as Prime Minister. Held at Buriram United Football Club's Buriram Castle, the event on 4th October attracted politicians, esteemed figures, and high-ranking officials from the Interior Ministry. Anutin Blessed for PM Role at Newin's Birthday Ceremony Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339859-anutin-blessed-for-pm-role-at-newins-birthday-ceremony/

At a significant ceremony for the 66th birthday of Newin Chidchob, the de facto leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, blessings were bestowed upon party leader Anutin Charnvirakul, aiming for his future as Prime Minister. Held at Buriram United Football Club's Buriram Castle, the event on 4th October attracted politicians, esteemed figures, and high-ranking officials from the Interior Ministry. The ceremony was unique, featuring age-old traditions from the Chidchob lineage. A central feature was an elephant ceremony, where participants fed bananas to elephants, symbolising good fortune. This was followed by a wrist-tying ritual, a traditional act believed to bring luck, conducted by the revered monk, Khuru Pakam. Picture courtesy: Daily News Significantly, after the monk blessed Newin by tying a string on his wrist, Newin requested the monk extend the blessing to Anutin, fervently expressing, "Tie it so he becomes the prime minister, tie it so he's great, tie it so he's strong." This public endorsement hints at Anutin's potential ascendancy in the Thai political realm. The ceremony, attended by numerous celebrants, was not just a personal milestone for Newin but also spotlighted the political aspirations and networks within the Bhumjaithai Party. Anutin, presently serving as the Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister, is seen by many as a potential candidate for the nation's top political position. In response to the ritual and well wishes, Anutin reciprocated by tying a string on Newin's wrist, offering good health and that Newin's own desires might manifest, reported THai Newsroom. The exchange reinforced the bond between the two political figures and the strong camaraderie within the party, potentially shaping the political landscape of the nation. The day’s events have sparked conversations about future leadership and alliances in Thai politics. TOP Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-10-05

Elephants and other sick animals evacuated from flooded shelter National park officials, boats and FWD trucks are rushing to an elephant conservation centre in Mae Taeng district of Chiang Mai to evacuate about 100 elephants and hundreds of other animals, as floodwater reaches two metres and is still rising. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339861-elephants-and-other-sick-animals-evacuated-from-flooded-shelter/

National park officials, boats and FWD trucks are rushing to an elephant conservation centre in Mae Taeng district of Chiang Mai to evacuate about 100 elephants and hundreds of other animals, as floodwater reaches two metres and is still rising. Atthaphon Charoenchansa, director general of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, said today that the rescue operation is being hampered because all roads leading to the Elephant and Environment Conservation Foundation centre are heavily flooded. He also said that more volunteers are needed to help the first group of about 50 people, from the Sri Lanna National Park and from Chiang Dao district, who are already on their way to the scene, adding that a request for more boats has been submitted to the Department of Public Disaster Prevention and Mitigation. Even though elephants enjoy being in water, Atthaphon said that staying in it too long in water can cause problems and some of them in the conservation centre are not tame. Full story: Thai PBS -- 2024-10-04

Thai-ing up the rain: Bangkok braces for a downpour of showers by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Brandon Morgan, Unsplash Thailand faces widespread rainfall today, with heavy showers expected in Bangkok and its surrounding provinces. This weather pattern affects 38 provinces, excluding the northeastern region, which experiences cooler morning temperatures. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339808-thai-ing-up-the-rain-bangkok-braces-for-a-downpour-of-showers/

Thailand faces widespread rainfall today, with heavy showers expected in Bangkok and its surrounding provinces. This weather pattern affects 38 provinces, excluding the northeastern region, which experiences cooler morning temperatures. The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) forecasts for the next 24 hours show significant rainfall in the western parts of the northern and central regions, the east, and the south. Cooler mornings with strong winds and slight temperature drops are expected in the northeastern region, with occasional showers in the southern parts. This weather is due to a moderate high-pressure or cold air mass from China covering the eastern parts of the north, upper central region, northeast, and the South China Sea, combined with a monsoon trough over the lower central, upper southern, and eastern regions, said a TMD spokesperson. “Residents in these areas should be cautious of heavy rainfall and accumulated rain, which could lead to flash floods and runoffs, especially in foothill areas near water flows and low-lying regions. Additionally, take care of your health due to the changing weather conditions.” In the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, waves are expected to be about 1 metre high and could exceed 2 metres in thunderstorm areas. “Sailors in the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand should navigate cautiously and avoid sailing in thunderstorm-prone areas.” Northern Region: Thunderstorms are expected in 60% of the area, with heavy rain in some parts, particularly in Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Lamphun, Lampang, Sukhothai, Tak, and Kamphaeng Phet. Temperatures will range from 21 to 23 degrees Celsius in the mornings and 29 to 33 degrees Celsius during the day. Southeastern winds will blow at 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. Heavy rainfall Northeastern Region: The mornings will be cool with strong winds and slight temperature drops, accompanied by occasional showers in the southern part. Temperatures will range from 19 to 22 degrees Celsius in the mornings and 30 to 33 degrees Celsius during the day. Northeastern winds will blow at 10 to 30 kilometres per hour. Central Region: Thunderstorms are expected in 70% of the area, with heavy rain in some parts, particularly in Nakhon Sawan, Uthai Thani, Chai Nat, Suphan Buri, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Kanchanaburi, Nakhon Pathom, Ratchaburi, Samut Sakhon, and Samut Songkhram. Temperatures will range from 22 to 24 degrees Celsius in the mornings and 31 to 33 degrees Celsius during the day. Variable winds will blow at 10 to 25 kilometres per hour. Eastern Region: Thunderstorms are expected in 60% of the area, with heavy rain in some parts, particularly in Chachoengsao, Chon Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat. Temperatures will range from 23 to 27 degrees Celsius in the mornings and 31 to 34 degrees Celsius during the day. Southeastern winds will blow at 15 to 30 kilometres per hour. The sea will have waves about 1 metre high, with higher waves over 2 metres in thunderstorm areas. Southern Region (east coast): Thunderstorms are expected in 70% of the area, with heavy rain in some parts, particularly in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, and Songkhla. Temperatures will range from 24 to 25 degrees Celsius in the mornings and 30 to 34 degrees Celsius during the day. AdvertisementsFrom Prachuap Khiri Khan upwards, variable winds will blow at 15 to 30 kilometres per hour. The sea will have waves about 1 metre high, with higher waves over 2 metres in thunderstorm areas. From Chumphon downwards, southwestern winds will blow at 15 to 30 kilometres per hour. The sea will have waves about 1 metre high, with higher waves over 2 metres in thunderstorm areas. Southern Region (west coast): Thunderstorms are expected in 70% of the area, with heavy rain in some parts, particularly in Ranong, Phang Nga, Trang, and Satun. Temperatures will range from 24 to 25 degrees Celsius in the mornings and 30 to 33 degrees Celsius during the day. Southwestern winds will blow at 15 to 30 kilometres per hour. The sea will have waves about 1 metre high, with higher waves over 2 metres in thunderstorm areas, reported KhaoSod. Bangkok and Surrounding Areas: Thunderstorms are expected in 70% of the area, with heavy rain in some parts. Temperatures will range from 24 to 25 degrees Celsius in the mornings and 32 to 34 degrees Celsius during the day. Variable winds will blow at 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Brandon Morgan, Unsplash Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-04

American Woman Flies 18 Hours to See Famous Hippo ‘Moo Deng’ Video screenshot In a remarkable example of "soft power," an American woman flew nearly 18 hours to Thailand just to see the famous hippo, ‘Moo Deng’, and even bought themed outfits. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339807-american-woman-flies-18-hours-to-see-famous-hippo-‘moo-deng’/

Video screenshot In a remarkable example of "soft power," an American woman flew nearly 18 hours to Thailand just to see the famous hippo, ‘Moo Deng’, and even bought themed outfits. Moo Deng, the adorable baby pygmy hippo at Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chonburi, has become an internet sensation. Her rosy pink cheeks and affectionate behavior towards her caretakers have captured the hearts of people worldwide. Recently, Molly, a TikTok user from the U.S., shared her journey, showing that she traveled almost 21 hours (with 18.5 hours of flying) to meet ‘Moo Deng’. She posted, “I traveled nearly 21 hours to see Moo Eeang, but the immigration officers barely believed me! Next stop, Moo Deng!” -- 2024-10-04

Cabbie chaos: Thai app rider punches cop in Bangkok (video) by Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 3 A Thai app-based taxi rider physically assaulted a police officer and damaged his car, claiming the cop was responsible for an earlier road accident in Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339805-cabbie-chaos-thai-app-rider-punches-cop-in-bangkok-video/

A Thai app-based taxi rider physically assaulted a police officer and damaged his car, claiming the cop was responsible for an earlier road accident in Bangkok. The footage of the physical assault on 30 year old Police Corporal Wirodom Najaiboon, from the Protection and Crowd Control Division, went viral on Thai social media and was shared by many news outlets. The app-based rider, later identified as 28 year old Sahaphap, was the man in the dark blue shirt and jeans. Despite the heated exchange, Corporal Wirodom maintained his composure and refrained from fighting back. Even the intervention of two security guards couldn’t pacify the furious Sahaphap. This shocking display of aggression has not only ignited outrage but has left many questioning how far things will go in today’s age of road rage. Wirodom reported the incident at Mueang Nonthaburi Police Station after the assault, which occurred at about 4pm, yesterday, October 3, Wirodom explained that he was driving the car to lead buses of students, who had just finished their camp in Saraburi province and were returning to their school. Wirodom said he closed the left lane of the road to make way for the buses. Other vehicles stopped behind his car, except for the app-based rider, who was travelling at high speed and unable to stop in time, resulting in a collision with other parked vehicles. Wirodom stated that the rider blamed him for the accident and followed him from the accident scene. Warodom urged the rider to file a complaint against him if he believed the accident was his fault but the rider ignored this suggestion and initiated the physical assault. Sahaphap insisted that the accident was the police officer’s fault, and other witnesses also supported this claim. He wanted the officer to cover the repair costs for his motorcycle. Sahaphap added that he was willing to apologise to the police officer and compensate for his injuries if the officer admitted his fault and compensated him as well. Officers at Mueang Nonthaburi Police Station are investigating the case and reviewing security camera footage from the scene of the accident. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 3 Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-04

Minister Pushes for Bangkok F1 Race Plan with 2024 Deadline Composite image: ASEAN NOW Thailand's Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong is pursuing an ambitious plan to host a Formula 1 (F1) street race in Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339802-minister-pushes-for-bangkok-f1-race-plan-with-2024-deadline/

Composite image: ASEAN NOW Thailand's Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong is pursuing an ambitious plan to host a Formula 1 (F1) street race in Bangkok. Talks are already underway with the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile, the governing body for F1 racing, to secure the rights. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is reportedly supportive, echoing sentiments from former leader Srettha Thavisin. Sorawong highlighted two potential formats: traditional circuit races or street races in urban settings. He emphasised that F1 racing is more than a sport—it attracts global car enthusiasts and wealthy tourists, typically generating over 12 billion baht per event. The concept isn't new. In 2015, former Tourism Minister Chumpol Silapa-archa proposed a similar plan with routes through Rattanakosin Island. However, due to the area's wooden infrastructure, alternative routes are being considered. A feasibility study is ongoing, with updates expected in December. Simultaneously, a private consortium is designing an F1 circuit track at U-tapao, within the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). EEC secretary-general Chula Sukmanop confirmed the project is in its planning stages, and a license will be the next step. The track, open to the public year-round, aims to emulate the F1 experience, despite hosting races only twice annually. On a related note, the EEC, in collaboration with the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau, is preparing for the Mini EEC Fair 2024 set for October. With over 400 anticipated business deals worth around 45 million baht, this event aims to boost investment in key S-curve industries in the region. To further stimulate tourism, Sorawong's ministry is revising its 2024 strategy, discussing budgets for potential schemes like "We Travel Together," anticipated to launch during the next low tourist season. -- 2024-10-04

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Friday 4 October 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339800-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-friday-4-october-2024/

NEWS - 04-October.mp4 The Department of Transport has impounded five coaches from a garage in Nakhon Ratchasima, owned by the same tour company involved in the fatal crash that killed 23 students and teachers on Tuesday. Two transport officials responsible for vehicle inspections have been transferred, pending an investigation into their role in approving the roadworthiness of the bus involved in the accident. A 38-year-old armed man took two men hostage in a house in north Bangkok. Initially police thought the hostages were children, a woman in the house escaped earlier. The suspect, dressed in camouflage, opened fire, injuring a police officer and a resident. Fearing for the hostages' safety, police delayed storming the house. When they finally raided it, the former boxer had already managed to escape. The Narathiwat court has issued an arrest warrant for a 74-year-old Pheu Thai MP and former Army general over the 2004 Tak Bai massacre. Representing the victims' families, the Cross Cultural Foundation notes the general failed to respond to a summons. He is now one of seven defendants facing charges for allegedly colluding in the deaths of 85 protesters. BYD EV car owners filed a complaint yesterday, claiming the company's aggressive marketing is unfair. They reported difficulties accessing free electric car charging promised for a year. Consumer protection officials urged the government to review BYD's pricing and improve charging access Thailand has risen to 28th in the 2024 "Best Countries in the World" ranking by the ‘US News & World Report’, up one spot from last year. The ranking, based on insights from 17,000 respondents across 89 countries, evaluates factors such as cultural heritage, quality of life, business friendliness, and future growth potential. Switzerland ranked first with a perfect score of 100. About the region Indonesia says it upholds its ban on e-commerce platform Temu due to fears it could disrupt the country’s micro, small and medium enterprises, Indonesia's ministry of trade says Temu’s business model of selling products directly from factories to consumers goes against Indonesia’s trade regulation requiring an intermediary or distributor, Todays Weather Chiang Mai and the north: cloudy with rain 28C degrees celsius Bangkok: Thunderstorms 32C Pattaya: cloudy Thundershowers 30C Phuket and the south: Thundershowers 29C Hua Hin: Bright, cloudy with rain likely this afternoon 30C Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Wunderground.com The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Windy.com. -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-10-04 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5