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Russell Crowe to Star in Film Promoting Thailand and Muay Thai Globally Picture courtesy: EVOLVE ONE Championship boss Chatri Sityodtong has expressed immense excitement for the upcoming Hollywood film "The Beast In Me," starring Russell Crowe. The movie, which prominently features ONE Championship and Muay Thai, aims to showcase Thailand and its martial art on the global stage. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339496-russell-crowe-to-star-in-film-promoting-thailand-and-muay-thai-globally/

ONE Championship boss Chatri Sityodtong has expressed immense excitement for the upcoming Hollywood film "The Beast In Me," starring Russell Crowe. The movie, which prominently features ONE Championship and Muay Thai, aims to showcase Thailand and its martial art on the global stage. Production will commence this December and will culminate in a pivotal scene at a ONE Friday Fights event on January 24 at Bangkok’s Impact Arena, according to Chatri. Chatri revealed that Academy Award-winning actor Crowe, who co-wrote the screenplay, approached the ONE Championship team earlier this year with a keen interest in integrating the organisation into the film’s storyline. “This is not just a cameo,” Chatri explained during a press conference for ONE Friday Fights 81. “Russell Crowe plays an ex-fighter turned coach within ONE Championship. His character’s student, also a former world champion, returns to the ring seeking revenge after his brother is injured by an illegal blow during a fight. The movie’s narrative is deeply interwoven with ONE, featuring live sequences shot during our events.” The CEO emphasised, “I was very impressed with the producers’ vision for the movie. A Hollywood blockbuster with an A-lister like Russell Crowe has all the makings of a massive global hit. So we’re very excited.” Chatri assured that the partnership is genuine, allowing ONE Championship to have input on the script to ensure authenticity. “You’ll see a lot of our superstars in the movie, along with gym owners and promoters,” he said. “I specifically requested the final scene to be shot in Thailand. My goal is to bring Thailand to the world stage of sports and business, while spotlighting Muay Thai and ONE Championship.” "The Beast In Me" will also shoot scenes in the United States and Australia, further enhancing its international appeal, Chatri confirmed, reported Bangkok Post. "This project is a dream come true for me and, I believe, for Thailand as well,” Chatri concluded. Picture courtesy: EVOLVE -- 2024-10-01

Husband Assaults Wife Over Delayed 10,000 Baht Digital Funds Transfer Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In a shocking incident in Udon Thani, a husband violently attacked his wife after a digital funds transfer of 10,000 baht failed to appear in their bank account. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339495-husband-assaults-wife-over-delayed-10000-baht-digital-funds-transfer/

In a shocking incident in Udon Thani, a husband violently attacked his wife after a digital funds transfer of 10,000 baht failed to appear in their bank account. On September 30, 2024, at around 11:20 a.m., police received a report about a domestic violence case in a house located in Ban Nong Lee Hu, Moo 11, Tambon Samphao. The responding officer, Lieutenant Somprasong Phollap, led a team to investigate the situation. At the scene, they found 46-year-old Ms. Thaveeporn (last name withheld) waiting for assistance. She had a severe head injury with blood on her forehead and apron. Ms. Thaveeporn explained that her husband, Mr. Tum, 43, from Buriram, had attacked her with a padlock, striking her multiple times until she bled. Fearing for her safety, she fled the house to seek help from her sister, who recorded the incident on video. According to Ms. Thaveeporn, she had taken her husband's bank book to check if the 10,000 baht had been deposited but found no funds. After returning home and informing Mr. Tum that the money would be available on October 20, he became irate. To calm him, she brought him a small bottle of liquor. However, after consuming it, Mr. Tum demanded more money for more alcohol and began destroying furniture. During the confrontation, Ms. Thaveeporn attempted to defend herself with a knife, but Mr. Tum continued to assault her, using his fists and finally the padlock, causing serious injuries. Her sister, Ms. Oi, 51, described the distressing moment when her sister sought help. She noted that such arguments were frequent between the couple, but never had they escalated to such violence. Emergency responders provided first aid before transporting Ms. Thaveeporn to Udon Thani Hospital for stitches. She was advised to report the incident to the police if she wished to press charges against her husband. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-10-01

Thailand welcomes Google's US$1 billion investment in data center Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Thailand on Monday welcomed a major investment from the tech giant Google, which announced plans to invest US$1 billion to build a data centre and cloud region in the country. The firm stated that the investment aims to meet growing cloud demand and support artificial intelligence adoption in Southeast Asia. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339488-thailand-welcomes-googles-us1-billion-investment-in-data-center/

Thailand on Monday welcomed a major investment from the tech giant Google, which announced plans to invest US$1 billion to build a data centre and cloud region in the country. The firm stated that the investment aims to meet growing cloud demand and support artificial intelligence adoption in Southeast Asia. According to a Deloitte study on the project, the investment is expected to create approximately 14,000 jobs annually until 2029. This is a significant boost, especially as technology continues to reshape economies and job markets globally. Earlier this year, in May, Microsoft proposed launching its first regional data centre in Thailand as a step towards enhancing cloud services. The news underlines Thailand's growing status as a hub for tech development and investment in the region. "Google’s cloud and data centre infrastructure in Bangkok and Chonburi will help meet the increasing demand for Google Cloud capabilities and AI innovations, as well as the company’s popular digital services—such as Search, Maps, and Google Workspace," the company declared. The data centre will be located in an industrial estate in Chonburi, while the Google Cloud region, which includes hardware and software dedicated to providing services to both private and public sector entities, will be situated in the capital, Bangkok. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra noted that Google's investment was "perfectly aligned" with the country's Cloud First Policy. Today, she met with Ruth Porat, president and chief investment officer of Alphabet and Google, at the Government House, reported Thai PBS. Paetongtarn thanked Google for its trust in Thailand’s potential to support its business, stating that her government would do its utmost to create a favourable and conducive environment for Google's operations. Porat added that Google's investment is expected to contribute approximately US$4 billion to Thailand's GDP by 2029. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-10-01

Fatal Dog Attacks in Thailand Prompt Legal Reevaluation Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Two fatal dog attacks in Thailand last week have sparked nationwide outrage, prompting renewed calls to review the country's pet ownership and public safety laws. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339486-fatal-dog-attacks-in-thailand-prompt-legal-reevaluation/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Two fatal dog attacks in Thailand last week have sparked nationwide outrage, prompting renewed calls to review the country's pet ownership and public safety laws. Under Thai law, the responsibility lies with the dog owner when their pet causes harm. According to Section 433 of the Thai Civil and Commercial Code, dog owners are required to compensate the injured party for medical expenses and other related costs. This civil liability ensures financial support for the victims of dog attacks. In addition to civil liabilities, dog owners can face criminal charges under Section 300 of the Penal Code if negligence is proven. For example, if an owner was aware of their dog's aggressive tendencies and failed to restrain it, they could be looking at up to three years in prison and a fine of up to 6,000 baht. Bangkok has specific regulations aimed at controlling dog-related incidents. Owners must manage their pets to prevent harm, and certain aggressive breeds must be leashed and muzzled in public, with fines of up to 5,000 baht for non-compliance. The issue becomes more complex with stray dogs, which lack specific owners to hold accountable. This makes it difficult for victims to claim compensation. While local authorities are responsible for managing stray animals, proving negligence can be legally challenging. Public health initiatives, including vaccination and sterilisation, aim to control the stray dog population. Reporting dog bites to local health authorities is crucial for proper medical treatment and preventing future incidents. Community efforts to care for strays, such as feeding and vaccinating them, help mitigate risks though they don't directly address liability issues. Private settlements often occur to avoid lengthy legal battles, especially if the dog has a known owner. However, obtaining compensation for attacks by stray dogs remains a significant challenge. Legal responsibilities can also shift if the victim was trespassing on private property, potentially absolving the dog owner of liability, reported The Pattaya News. These recent tragedies underscore the urgent need for stricter enforcement of existing laws and possibly new regulations to enhance public safety. While Thailand’s legal landscape provides a framework for addressing dog attacks, effective implementation and increased public awareness are crucial for preventing further incidents. For those entangled in legal issues related to dog attacks, seeking expert legal advice is recommended to understand available options and ensure compliance with the law. -- 2024-10-01

Two Syrians Arrested at Phuket Airport with Fake UAE Passports By Goongnang Suksawat Phuket – Two Syrians were arrested at the Phuket International Airport with fake United Arab Emirates passports. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339485-two-syrians-arrested-at-phuket-airport-with-fake-uae-passports/

Phuket – Two Syrians were arrested at the Phuket International Airport with fake United Arab Emirates passports. The Phuket Immigration at the airport told the Phuket Express that on Sunday (September 29th) they arrested two males Syrians at the airport in Thalang. Both of them are 32 years old. They were arrested at the International Arrival Terminal. They presented fake United Arab Emirates passports to the immigration officers. They were taken to the Sakoo Police Station to face charges of possession or using a fake passport. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS -- 2024-10-01

Thai Actress’s Brother Refuses Settlement with Russian Attacker A "wai" was offered to stop the Russian man from attacking his victim. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath The younger brother of actress Chalida Vijitvongthong has refused to settle with a Russian man who allegedly assaulted him after he intervened to help a restaurant employee. The incident took place in the early hours of last Wednesday (September 25) at a restaurant on Ratchadapisek Soi 3, Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339484-thai-actress’s-brother-refuses-settlement-with-russian-attacker/

A "wai" was offered to stop the Russian man from attacking his victim. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath The younger brother of actress Chalida Vijitvongthong has refused to settle with a Russian man who allegedly assaulted him after he intervened to help a restaurant employee. The incident took place in the early hours of last Wednesday (September 25) at a restaurant on Ratchadapisek Soi 3, Bangkok. Rachai Vijitvongthong, 29, was struck by a series of kicks and punches from an unnamed deaf Russian man at around 2 a.m., after attempting to stop the man from attacking the restaurant employee. Rachai later required three days of medical treatment, according to a certificate he submitted to the Huai Khwang police station. Pol. Col. Prasopchok Aimpinij, head of the Huai Khwang station, stated that due to the assailant's deafness, a Russian sign language interpreter is necessary for the investigation. The interpreter is expected tomorrow, after which charges will be formally filed, reported Thai Rath. Although the interpreter relayed the Russian man's regret, Mr. Rachai was unmoved by apologies or offers of negotiation. He insisted on a formal confession from the attacker, stating that he would proceed with a lawsuit within 48 hours if no confession was made. Pol. Col. Prasopchok further explained the legal process: "If the case goes to court and the individual is sentenced to prison, he will serve his sentence in Thailand before any consideration of deportation by the Immigration Bureau." This case highlights the commitment to following due legal processes, ensuring justice is served without yielding to informal settlements, even in the face of apologies. It reflects growing public frustration with violence and a demand for accountability. --- This version improves the sentence structure for fluency and readability, while maintaining the original meaning. -- 2024-10-01

to continue: Thailand Live Tuesday 1 October 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1339483-thailand-live-tuesday-1-october-2024/

Prawit Wongsuwan's Overseas Trips Under Scrutiny Picture courtesy: Channel 7 News Mr. Prompong Nopparit, former spokesman for the Pheu Thai party, is examining whether Palang Pracharath leader Prawit Wongsuwan's overseas trips this year violated any official regulations. Concerns arose after it was discovered that Prawit missed 84 out of 95 House sessions, citing other commitments. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339474-prawit-wongsuwans-overseas-trips-under-scrutiny/

FILE - Maya Bay. Picture courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand's famous Maya Bay, located in the southern province of Krabi, will reopen to visitors on Tuesday after a two-month closure for environmental rehabilitation. The iconic bay, renowned globally from the Hollywood film "The Beach" starring Leonardo DiCaprio, had been closed from August 1 to September 30 to allow natural restoration. Thailand's Maya Bay to Reopen for Tourists on Tuesday Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339477-thailands-maya-bay-to-reopen-for-tourists-on-tuesday/

Thailand's Maya Bay to Reopen for Tourists on Tuesday FILE - Maya Bay. Picture courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand's famous Maya Bay, located in the southern province of Krabi, will reopen to visitors on Tuesday after a two-month closure for environmental rehabilitation. The iconic bay, renowned globally from the Hollywood film "The Beach" starring Leonardo DiCaprio, had been closed from August 1 to September 30 to allow natural restoration. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339477-thailands-maya-bay-to-reopen-for-tourists-on-tuesday/

Thailand's famous Maya Bay, located in the southern province of Krabi, will reopen to visitors on Tuesday after a two-month closure for environmental rehabilitation. The iconic bay, renowned globally from the Hollywood film "The Beach" starring Leonardo DiCaprio, had been closed from August 1 to September 30 to allow natural restoration. Attapon Charoenchansa, director-general of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, confirmed that Maya Bay, along with nearby Loh Samah Bay and Lor Kor Bay on the Phi Phi islands, will welcome tourists again. During the closure, Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park staff undertook essential maintenance tasks, such as securing buoys to protect coral reefs and ensuring visitor safety for the forthcoming high tourist season. The shutdown was part of ongoing efforts to manage and preserve the bay's delicate ecosystem. The temporary closure allowed marine life and coral reefs to recuperate from the wear and tear caused by extensive tourism. This strategy has been employed since 2018, following severe environmental degradation from the bay's popularity post-filming of "The Beach" over two decades ago, reported Bangkok Post. Maya Bay’s clear waters, limestone cliffs, and stunning marine life have made it a prime destination, attracting countless tourists eager to experience its natural allure. Authorities hope that the rehabilitative measures will sustain the bay’s ecological balance while continuing to offer visitors an unforgettable experience. Tourists planning a visit should be mindful of the new protective measures in place to support ongoing conservation efforts. This reopening marks a significant step in balancing ecological preservation with tourism, ensuring that Maya Bay remains a pristine paradise for future generations. As the high season approaches, officials anticipate a surge in visitors drawn to the bay’s world-renowned beauty, underscoring the importance of continued vigilance in environmental management. FILE - Maya Bay. Picture courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-09-30

Grave attraction: Tourists dying to visit Chon Buri’s cemetery-turned-cafe by Ryan Turner Chon Buri temple cemetery transformed into popular cafe spot/Image courtesy of KhaoSod Tourists from all over flocked to Wat Nong Khayad’s unique cemetery garden in Chon Buri, which has been transformed into a relaxing cafe and community space offering free food and drinks, thanks to the efforts of the abbot and local philanthropists. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339475-grave-attraction-tourists-dying-to-visit-chon-buri’s-cemetery-turned-cafe/

Chon Buri temple cemetery transformed into popular cafe spot/Image courtesy of KhaoSod Tourists from all over flocked to Wat Nong Khayad’s unique cemetery garden in Chon Buri, which has been transformed into a relaxing cafe and community space offering free food and drinks, thanks to the efforts of the abbot and local philanthropists. The cemetery garden at Wat Nong Khayad in Phanat Nikhom, Chon Buri, has become a bustling attraction. Tourists have been arriving in droves to experience the unusual setting, which now features a lively cafe atmosphere. Tourists eagerly queued for coffee and other beverages. The baristas were busy, continuously preparing drinks. Notably, there is no charge for the coffee and drinks at this garden, instead, a donation box is available for visitors to contribute as they wish. The collected funds are used to purchase supplies for the temple. Additionally, there are complimentary items like ice cream and noodles, generously provided by local benefactors. Notably, the renowned noodle seller, Jae Jim, offers her delicacies for free in the garden’s pavilion. Chon Buri temple cemetery transformed into popular cafe spot/Image courtesy of KhaoSod Within the garden, a group of local bakery owners from the sweet and bakery shop brought over 300 pieces of bread as a donation to share with visitors. These donations are part of a broader project to support locals in need. A visitor, 52 year old Somporn shared his thoughts after visiting the cemetery garden. He remarked that traditionally, cemeteries are considered eerie and avoided by many due to fears of the supernatural. However, his visit to this transformed space with his family changed his perspective entirely. He considered the atmosphere inviting, with numerous picturesque spots for photography and cosy, old-style houses designed as rest areas. Somporn confidently described the garden as a potential new landmark that would undoubtedly attract more visitors seeking relaxation and leisure. The transformation of this cemetery into a garden cafe has garnered significant attention and praise. The initiative not only provides a unique tourist experience but also fosters community spirit and generosity. by Ryan Turner Chon Buri temple cemetery transformed into popular cafe spot/Image courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-30

Prawit Wongsuwan's Overseas Trips Under Scrutiny Picture courtesy: Channel 7 News Mr. Prompong Nopparit, former spokesman for the Pheu Thai party, is examining whether Palang Pracharath leader Prawit Wongsuwan's overseas trips this year violated any official regulations. Concerns arose after it was discovered that Prawit missed 84 out of 95 House sessions, citing other commitments. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339474-prawit-wongsuwans-overseas-trips-under-scrutiny/

Mr. Prompong Nopparit, former spokesman for the Pheu Thai party, is examining whether Palang Pracharath leader Prawit Wongsuwan's overseas trips this year violated any official regulations. Concerns arose after it was discovered that Prawit missed 84 out of 95 House sessions, citing other commitments. Prompong visited the Immigration Bureau to obtain details about Prawit's foreign trips in March, June, and July-August, totaling eight days. He seeks to verify if the expenses for these trips adhered to government rules and if they were used as an excuse to avoid attending House sessions. This investigation follows a tip-off suggesting these trips might breach National Anti-Corruption Commission guidelines. Prompong insists his actions aren't meant to discredit Prawit or gain political advantage but are aimed at serving the public interest. He plans to continue his inquiry until Prawit takes responsibility, either by attending House sessions or resigning as a party-listed MP. Palang Pracharath is now part of the opposition, having fallen out with Pheu Thai. The influential Pheu Thai figure Thaksin Shinawatra has accused "the man from a forest home" - a veiled reference to Prawit - of orchestrating a surprise impeachment move by 40 senators loyal to Prawit against former prime minister Srettha Thavisin, deposed by the Constitutional Court on August 14, reported Thai Newsroom. The impeached former prime minister had previously appointed Pichit Chuenban, a former convict and ex-lawyer for Thaksin, as a minister attached to the Prime Minister's Office earlier this year. Although Pichit resigned under pressure from Thaksin, the court deemed Srettha's appointment of Pichit as an irreversible fait accompli. Prompong's efforts put the spotlight back on Prawit, demanding accountability and transparency from political leaders regarding their obligations and potential misuse of privileges. Picture courtesy: Channel 7 News -- 2024-09-30

EC dismisses complaints for party dissolution, insufficient evidence by Ryan Turner Sawaeng Boonmee. Image: EC The Election Commission (EC) has dismissed two of over ten complaints calling for the dissolution of certain political parties and the removal of the prime minister and some Cabinet members due to insufficient information. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339430-ec-dismisses-complaints-for-party-dissolution-insufficient-evidence/

The Election Commission (EC) has dismissed two of over ten complaints calling for the dissolution of certain political parties and the removal of the prime minister and some Cabinet members due to insufficient information. Sawaeng Boonmee, the EC Secretary-General, stated that the office received more than ten complaints since the new government was established but two have been rejected. He did not elaborate on the specifics of these cases but mentioned that the complaints sought the dissolution of some parties and the removal of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and certain Cabinet members. The EC office rejected the two complaints because they did not meet the criteria for valid complaints and appeared to only ask questions, Boonmee explained. He emphasised that anyone filing a complaint must specify the offences and which sections have been infringed. Simply citing information from newspapers and posing questions does not suffice. “The agency will review the rest of the complaints without delay. If any complaints lack sufficient information or evidence, they will be dismissed at an early stage.” One of the dismissed complaints alleged that the ruling Pheu Thai Party remained under the influence of former PM Thaksin Shinawatra, who is not a party member. On August 19, an anonymous petitioner filed the complaint, referencing the Constitutional Court’s ruling to remove Srettha Thavisin as prime minister on August 14. The complaint accused former Thai premier Srettha of violating ethical standards by allowing a person, whom ex-lawyer Pichit Chuenban worked for, to dictate that Pichit be given the post of PM’s office minister. The court was referring to Thaksin, as Pichit served as his defence lawyer in a corruption case. Thaksin’s influence Furthermore, core members of Pheu Thai allegedly showed their respect and acceptance of Thaksin’s directions in media interviews, according to the complaint. The organic law governing political parties states it is illegal for a non-party member to control, dominate, or instruct party activities in a way that directly or indirectly influences the party or its members. On August 28, prolific petitioner Ruangkrai Leekitwattana asked the EC to evaluate Paetongtarn’s eligibility to hold the prime minister’s post, questioning the date of her resignation from positions in 21 companies within her family’s business empire. Paetongtarn was elected Prime Minister of Thailand by the House of Representatives on August 16. Leekitwattana asked the commission to investigate whether Paetongtarn had resigned from all executive roles in the family’s companies by August 15 and why her resignation was only registered on August 19, three days after her election. Meanwhile, Boonmee noted that the Bhumjaithai Party, a government coalition member, is unlikely to face dissolution due to allegations against its former Secretary-General, Saksayam Chidchob. The party allegedly received unlawful donations from Burijarearn Construction, a company reportedly owned by nominees of Saksayam, who was found guilty by the Constitutional Court in January for asset concealment. The EC’s inquiry team has been given extra time to collect and establish the facts, although Boonmee believes the complaint can be finalised within a month or two. He insisted that the case against Saksayam is not linked to the party in a way that would warrant dissolution. “It is not the same as the Constitutional Court ruling against the now-dissolved Move Forward Party, which was disbanded for attempting to subvert the constitutional monarchy.” by Ryan Turner Sawaeng Boonmee. Image: EC Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-30

6 year old boy stripped naked and assaulted by 2 girls in Phuket by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ and Khao Phuket A grandmother is seeking compensation after a six year old Thai boy in Phuket was stripped naked and physically assaulted by two 12 year old girls. The girls claimed they were only playing a game of ghost exorcism. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339427-6-year-old-boy-stripped-naked-and-assaulted-by-2-girls-in-phuket/

A grandmother is seeking compensation after a six year old Thai boy in Phuket was stripped naked and physically assaulted by two 12 year old girls. The girls claimed they were only playing a game of ghost exorcism. The 41-second video when the six year old boy was abused was shared on Thai social media on Saturday, September 28. In the video, the young boy was stripped naked, tied up, and brutally assaulted. Two girls kicked him and beat him with shoes on his body, private part, and head. It was later reported that the incident took place at a school in the Rawai sub-district, Mueang district of Phuket. A local who lived near the young victim decided to visit his home after seeing the video. The boy’s 60 year old grandmother acknowledged the issue and the boy’s father reported it to the Chalong Police Station. The girls’ guardians were ordered to pay 5,000 in compensation to the boy but they have yet to do so. The grandmother also revealed that this boy lived with her after his parents broke up. She had no job and cleaned a temple in the community in exchange for food. A neighbour then encouraged the grandmother to share the story with the media to seek justice for the boy. Chalong Police Station officers insisted that they had not ignored the case. They revealed to Channel 3 that the two girls were summoned for questioning previously. They claimed that they played ghost exorcism with the young boy. The boy played the role of a ghost and the two girls performed the ritual as they had seen it in a film. The girls said they recorded the video to watch later but the video was later leaked and shared on social media. Police added that they also reported the story to the Phuket Provincial Social Development and Human Society to take care the young boy both physically and mentally. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ and Khao Phuket Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-30