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Pheu Thai Party Wins By-Election in Phitsanuloke FILE - Thailand's new Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra talks to media members after receiving a royal letter of endorsement for the post at the Pheu Thai party headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand, on Aug. 18, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit, File) The Pheu Thai Party has secured a significant victory in Phitsanuloke’s Constituency 1 by-election, as their candidate Jadet Jantar triumphed over Natachanon Chanaburanasak from the People’s Party. This marks the first electoral win for the ruling party in this northern province in many years. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338291-pheu-thai-party-wins-by-election-in-phitsanulok/

FILE - Thailand's new Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra talks to media members after receiving a royal letter of endorsement for the post at the Pheu Thai party headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand, on Aug. 18, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit, File) The Pheu Thai Party has secured a significant victory in Phitsanulok’s Constituency 1 by-election, as their candidate Jadet Jantar triumphed over Natachanon Chanaburanasak from the People’s Party. This marks the first electoral win for the ruling party in this northern province in many years. Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin, a key figure in the Pheu Thai Party, highlighted the importance of Jadet’s win on Sunday night. Jadet’s victory by more than 6,000 votes is seen as an endorsement of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s leadership. "This is not just a victory in Phitsanulok. People across the country look to the prime minister as a beacon of hope," Somsak stated, celebrating with other prominent party members as the unofficial vote count concluded. Somsak noted that Pheu Thai had not won in Phitsanulok for nearly two decades. The recent victory, he argued, reflects growing trust in the prime minister. He expressed gratitude to the voters for their support. Jadet Jantar revealed that the prime minister personally called to congratulate him. He vowed to serve his constituents to the best of his abilities. Natachanon Chanaburanasak of the People’s Party gracefully conceded defeat, expressing gratitude to the approximately 30,000 people who voted for him. Despite the loss, he remains committed to serving the province. People’s Party secretary-general Sarayuth Jailak acknowledged the defeat but indicated that the party would continue to build its base and prepare for future elections. The Election Commission’s unofficial count showed Jadet winning with 35,209 votes, while Natachanon garnered 30,640 votes. Out of 138,705 eligible voters in Constituency 1, the voter turnout was recorded at 54.95 percent. This election result is a notable milestone for the Pheu Thai Party and highlights shifting political dynamics in Phitsanulok. -- 2024-09-16

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Monday 16 September 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338289-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-monday-16-september-2024/

NEWS - 16-September.mp4 The prime minister will oversee the creation of a national center to monitor floods and establish two agencies to coordinate response and recovery. State agencies are due to meet today to discuss better flood management. So far over 130,000 people have been affected by floods in the North, Northeast, and Central region during the last month. The mekong river overflowed over the weekend causing flooding in Nong Kai in the north east, Meanwhile the director for the Southeast Asia Programme at the International Rivers Network, said a huge volume of water from Myanmar contributed to the flooding in Chiang Rai province. And there is no effective mechanism to deal with transboundary flooding. Police arrested two Chinese men for allegedly using an electronic device to keep newly-parked cars unlocked and stealing valuables The two in their 30s were arrested at the rest area of Bangkok to Chon Buri Motorway, both were caught as they tried to open the doors of two cars. Police seized a wireless device,used to prevent drivers from being able to lock their vehicle, they also confiscated a shoulder bag, three mobile phones, and a car. A 32-year-old man has been arrested for allegedly raping and making porn videos with his 14-year-old daughter, he was apprehended at his home in Hua Hin after fleeing arrest for nearly a month and a half. He was wanted in seven charges including theft, fraud and rape. Across the region The death toll in Myanmar rose to at least 113 over the weekend following heavy rains brought on by Typhoon Yagi At least 320,000 people have been displaced and 64 were still missing, The Philippines said it was sending a vessel to the Sabina Shoal to replace a coast guard ship that returned to port yesterday after a five-month deployment in the South China Sea, in a swap that would likely frustrate China. Todays Weather Chiang Mai and the north: Thundershowers 34C degrees celsius Bangkok: Thundershowers 35 Pattaya: thundershowers 31 Phuket and the south: thundershowers 29C Hua Hin: Sunny becoming cloudy with an isolated shower this afternoon 33C Much the same over the weekend . AQI: green which is good Green clear, yellow moderate, Orange High, Red unhealthy. 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 2024-09-16 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5

Brawl on Bangla Road, Transgender Woman Assaults Tourist Composite pictures courtesy: The Phuket News According to Thai media reports, violence broke out again in Patong, Phuket. Two incidents involving tourists left one man unconscious and another man seriously injured in the head after being hit by a woman. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338286-brawl-on-bangla-road-transgender-woman-assaults-tourist/

According to Thai media reports, violence broke out again in Patong, Phuket. Two incidents involving tourists left one man unconscious and another man seriously injured in the head after being hit by a woman. Fight on Bangla Road At approximately 7:10 am, three Middle Eastern male tourists were involved in a physical altercation on Bangla Road. Witnesses reported that the men had been drinking heavily, and an argument quickly escalated into a brawl. Two of the men fought each other while the third attempted to separate them. The conflict intensified until one of the men delivered a knockout punch, causing his opponent to fall unconscious onto the road. Local resident Mr. Phisit captured the chaotic scene on video, showing the tourists' friends struggling to break up the fight. Eventually, bystanders intervened and assisted in transporting the injured man to Patong Hospital for treatment. The cause of the altercation remains unclear, and authorities have yet to release an official statement. Tourist Assault on Rat-U-Thit 200 Pi Road Earlier that morning, at around 6:30 am, a 27-year-old Indian national was injured when struck on the forehead by a transgender woman wielding a mobile phone. The incident occurred near Patong Police Station. The victim recounted that he had met the woman, named Athit Saengsuk, near Soi Bangla, and they had walked together to Ko Daeng Seafood restaurant on Rat-U-Thit 200 Pi Road. During an ensuing argument, Athit struck the man on the forehead with her phone. Pol Lt Wisanu Chumee of the Patong Police confirmed that witnesses saw the two arguing in front of the restaurant before the assault took place. The Indian tourist filed an official complaint, and the investigation is ongoing, reported Thae Phuket News. Authorities are questioning witnesses and reviewing evidence to determine the argument's cause. TOP: Composite pictures courtesy: The Phuket News -- 2024-09-16

Canadian DJ Arrested for Working Without Work Permit in Pattaya Club Raid By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: Komchadluek Pattaya — A Canadian DJ was arrested for working illegally during a raid on a Pattaya club where authorities also uncovered drug use and other violations. On September 14th, 2024, at around 10:40 PM, Chonburi Immigration Police, in collaboration with Pattaya Tourist Police, conducted a raid on a well-known nightclub in Soi 6 Pratumnak. The operation followed complaints that the club was hosting a party involving illegal drug use. During the raid, authorities found around 50 people, including both locals and foreigners, engaging in drinking, smoking marijuana, and dancing, while a DJ played music. The DJ, identified only as Mr. David, a 41-year-old Canadian national, was reportedly found to be working without a valid work permit. The raid also uncovered white powder resembling narcotics on the floor, which authorities kept as evidence. Additionally, a British tourist named only as Mr. Zico, 23, was arrested for carrying a weapon, and the club’s Thai owner, Ms. Suwan, 26, was found to be employing Mr. David without proper documentation. She was also reported to be Mr. David’s girlfriend. Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS -- 2024-09-16

Thailand issues four major announcements on new visa measures Picture courtesy: Daily Post The Ministry of Interior of Thailand has issued four major announcements on new visa measures since July 15, 2024. These measures are intended to enhance the tourism industry, attract foreign investment, and bolster local businesses and communities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338275-thailand-issues-four-major-announcements-on-new-visa-measures/

The Ministry of Interior of Thailand has issued four major announcements on new visa measures since July 15, 2024. These measures are intended to enhance the tourism industry, attract foreign investment, and bolster local businesses and communities. New Visa Categories and Extensions: 1. Destination Thailand Visa (DTV): Designed for digital nomads, remote workers, freelancers, and those interested in Thai cultural activities. It is valid for five years and allows multiple entries, with each stay up to 180 days. This visa can be renewed for an additional 180 days within Thailand. Spouses and children under 20 years old can also apply for dependent DTV visas. 2. Extended Visa-Free Period: Visitors from 93 nationalities now enjoy an extended visa-free stay from 30 to 60 days, encouraging longer tourist and short-term business visits. 3. Expanded Visa on Arrival: Additional nationalities are eligible for visas on arrival, increasing the total to 31 nationalities. 4. New Student Visa (ED-Plus): Aimed at undergraduate and higher-level students, this visa allows them to stay and seek employment in Thailand post-graduation. Work and Legal Considerations: The DTV visa is a significant step forward for digital nomads and remote workers. However, foreigners must adhere to the Foreigner's Working Management Law. The law defines 'work' as any occupation, regardless of employer nationality. Therefore, activities potentially affecting Thai job markets may require a work permit, even if the work is for an overseas employer. Clear guidelines from the Department of Employment (DOE) are anticipated to ensure compliance and build confidence among foreign workers. Short-Term Business Activities: With the visa-free period extended to 60 days, short-term business travelers must carefully evaluate their activities to ensure they do not constitute 'work' under the law. Specific activities may require regular or urgent work permits, initially valid for 15 days and extendable for another 15 days. Activities considered urgent or specific work include organizing conferences, conducting academic lectures, temporary internal audits, quality inspections, and machinery installation. These measures ensure that while foreigners can take advantage of Thailand’s extended visa privileges, they comply with local employment laws. This ensures legal security and protects Thai citizen jobs. These comprehensive visa updates mark Thailand's steps to attract foreign talent and investment, enhancing its international appeal and economic growth while maintaining a regulated work environment, reported The Nation. Picture courtesy: Daily Post -- 2024-09-16

to continue: Thailand Live Monday 16 September 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1338271-thailand-live-monday-16-september-2024/

Cannabis Warehouse Fire Causes Over 3 Million Baht in Damages A fire broke out at a cannabis cultivation warehouse, resulting in damages exceeding 3 million, in Phuket, with the initial investigation pointing to an electrical short circuit as the likely cause. Full story : https://aseannow.com/topic/1338224-cannabis-warehouse-fire-causes-over-3-million-baht-in-damages/

Group Attacks Pattaya Bar Worker After Luring Her to Meeting Picture courtesy: Daily News A Pattaya bar worker, Ms. Paphasara, was attacked by a group of people after attempting to peacefully resolve a conflict with someone she didn't know. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338230-group-attacks-pattaya-bar-worker-after-luring-her-to-meeting/

Tourist Police, led by Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira Phueak-aom, have apprehended two Russian nationals on Koh Phangan for illegal employment practices. This action underscores the authorities' commitment to addressing unlawful foreign labour as the tourist season approaches. Illegal Work: Russian Employer and Russian Electrician Arrested Picture courtesy: pheupuangchon Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338263-illegal-work-russian-employer-and-russian-electrician-arrested/

Illegal Work: Russian Employer and Russian Electrician Arrested Picture courtesy: pheupuangchon Tourist Police, led by Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira Phueak-aom, have apprehended two Russian nationals on Koh Phangan for illegal employment practices. This action underscores the authorities' commitment to addressing unlawful foreign labour as the tourist season approaches. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338263-illegal-work-russian-employer-and-russian-electrician-arrested/

Tourist Police, led by Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira Phueak-aom, have apprehended two Russian nationals on Koh Phangan for illegal employment practices. This action underscores the authorities' commitment to addressing unlawful foreign labour as the tourist season approaches. The arrests were made on September 13, 2024, at Café 13 in Village 1, Koh Phangan Subdistrict, Koh Phangan District, Surat Thani Province. 1. Mr. Anatolii F., 40, was arrested for employing a foreigner without the necessary work permit. 2. Mr. Evgenii M., 35, an electrician, was caught with various tools, including a wire cutter, VAF 2×2.5 electrical wire, an electric drill, pliers, and a screwdriver, and was charged with working without a valid permit. Picture courtesy: pheupuangchon Mr. Anatolii admitted to hiring Mr. Evgenii due to the latter's financial difficulties. Mr. Evgenii arrived on Koh Phangan for a holiday and spent his money on food and leisure activities. Desperate for funds, he approached Mr. Anatolii at Café 13 for work in exchange for money and food. Mr. Anatolii agreed, providing Mr. Evgenii with daily compensation. The arrests were a coordinated effort by the Tourist Police Division 5, Sub-Division 2, Division 3, the Koh Phangan district chief, and the local police. Both individuals were transported to Koh Phangan Police Station for further legal proceedings. Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira Phueak-aom has directed tourist police in key destinations to heighten efforts against criminal activities by foreign nationals. The objective is to uphold the law stringently and enhance the safety and confidence of tourists, especially during the high season. This initiative aims to preserve Thailand's reputation as a safe and welcoming destination. This incident highlights the importance of adhering to local laws and regulations for foreign nationals working or seeking employment in the country. The Tourist Police remain vigilant in their efforts to ensure legal compliance and maintain public order. TOP Picture courtesy: pheupuangchon -- 2024-09-15

Bar worker assaulted by strangers for no reason in Pattaya By Pattaya Mail Ms. Paphassara, a 20-year-old bar worker, recounts the unprovoked attack by a group of strangers outside a hotel in central Pattaya. PATTAYA, Thailand – A 20-year-old bar worker, Ms. Paphassara P, was the victim of an unprovoked assault outside a hotel in central Pattaya in the early hours of September 12. Ms. Paphassara reported to police that the confrontation began when one of the assailants contacted her through a mutual friend on Facebook, stating that they “didn’t like her” and wanted to meet. In an attempt to resolve the matter peacefully, she agreed to meet the individual outside her hotel. Upon arriving, however, she was confronted by six people—three men and three women—who made it clear that there was no specific issue. They said they simply wanted to attack her. Without provocation, the group began to assault Ms. Paphassara, leaving her injured. The attack only ended when tourists and a hotel security guard intervened, preventing further harm. Full story: Pattaya Mail -- 2024-09-15

Group Attacks Pattaya Bar Worker After Luring Her to Meeting Picture courtesy: Daily News A Pattaya bar worker, Ms. Paphasara, was attacked by a group of people after attempting to peacefully resolve a conflict with someone she didn't know. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338230-group-attacks-pattaya-bar-worker-after-luring-her-to-meeting/

A Pattaya bar worker, Ms. Paphasara, was attacked by a group of people after attempting to peacefully resolve a conflict with someone she didn't know. On the night of September 12, she was assaulted outside a hotel in Central Pattaya, Nongprue Subdistrict, Banglamung District, Chon Buri Province. The attackers openly admitted they "just wanted to slap her." Ms. Paphasara, who is 20 years old, reported the incident to the police and provided CCTV footage as evidence. According to Ms. Paphasara, the assailant had sent a message through a mutual friend's Facebook account, expressing a desire to slap her simply because they didn't like her. To avoid any trouble, she reached out to them and arranged a meeting to clear things up. However, when she arrived at the location, she was confronted by three women and three men, reported Daily News. When she asked why they had an issue, they replied indifferently that there was no specific reason, they just wanted to slap her. The group then attacked her until she was injured, but tourists and security guards intervened, stopping the assault. Ms. Paphasara filed a complaint with the Pattaya City Police and handed over CCTV footage that clearly captured the attack and the identities of the attackers. She expressed disbelief that such violence could occur in Pattaya and urged the police to pursue the attackers and bring them to justice through legal means. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-09-15

Chonburi Police Arrest over 20 Indians in Call Center Scam Raid Picture courtesy: 4forcenews Police in Chonburi, in collaboration with Chonburi Immigration, have arrested over 20 Indian nationals suspected of running a call center scam targeting fellow Indians. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338223-chonburi-police-arrest-over-20-indians-in-call-center-scam-raid/

Police in Chonburi, in collaboration with Chonburi Immigration, have arrested over 20 Indian nationals suspected of running a call center scam targeting fellow Indians. On September 13, 2024, Pol. Col. Phasakorn Paichit reported that Pol. Col. Wattanachai Saengrit led a team from the Chonburi Police and Immigration units to execute a search warrant at a house in Najomtien, Sattahip District. They had received information that several Indian nationals were suspected of illegal activities. Picture courtesy: Naew Na During the search, officers found Mr. Morvadiya, a 20-year-old Indian national, who identified himself as the owner of the house. In addition, 23 other Indian men were present. The authorities also confiscated over 20 computers. All of the Indian nationals were taken to Najomtien Police Station for questioning regarding their involvement with the call center scam. Further investigation revealed that 12 of the Indian nationals were residing in Thailand illegally. They were charged with unlawful entry and remaining in the Kingdom without permission. Picture courtesy: 4forcenews The other 12 were charged with failing to report a change of residence to the authorities within 24 hours, as required for temporary stays. Legal action will be taken against them accordingly. The confiscated computers will also be examined to determine if they were used in the call center scam or other fraudulent activities, with further legal action to follow if necessary. TOP Picture courtesy: 4forcenews -- 2024-09-15

UPDATE: Mekong floods: Nong Khai residents urged to move belongings by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Residents of Nong Khai have been advised to move their belongings to higher ground as the Mekong River’s water level is expected to peak by tomorrow due to ongoing flooding. The flood situation in Nong Khai province remains concerning as the Mekong River continues to rise steadily. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338109-mekong-river-flooding-forces-evacuations-in-nong-khai/?do=findComment&comment=19231562

Mekong floods: Nong Khai residents urged to move belongings by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Residents of Nong Khai have been advised to move their belongings to higher ground as the Mekong River’s water level is expected to peak by tomorrow due to ongoing flooding. The flood situation in Nong Khai province remains concerning as the Mekong River continues to rise steadily. The water level at the Nong Khai Hydrology Station was recorded at 13.46 metres at 8pm yesterday, increasing by 2 to 4 centimetres per hour. The strong current has led to flooding in several areas, affecting six districts along the river: Sangkhom, Si Chiang Mai, Tha Bo, Mueang Nong Khai, Phon Phisai, and Rattanawapi. Many villages, especially those along the riverbanks, are already experiencing floods with water levels exceeding 1 metre. The National Disaster Warning Foundation’s Facebook page issued a warning yesterday, September 13, to Nong Khai residents to urgently move their belongings to higher ground as the Mekong River is projected to reach its highest level tomorrow, September 15. “Please share this information with Nong Khai residents to move their belongings to higher ground. The Mekong River’s highest level is expected to come earlier and higher on September 15. The water level will be approximately 0.6 metres higher than today, leading to a broader area of flooding as illustrated in the attached image. The water level is anticipated to start receding from September 16 onwards, decreasing by about 20 to 25 centimetres daily.” The warning comes as floodwaters have already infiltrated numerous areas, causing significant disruptions. The rapid rise of the Mekong River poses a serious threat to the local communities and their properties. Officials and residents are working together to mitigate the damage and ensure safety. Local officials emphasised the importance of taking immediate action to protect lives and property. The relentless increase in water levels has compelled many to evacuate their homes, seeking refuge in safer areas. Emergency response teams are on high alert, ready to assist those in need and provide necessary resources, reported KhaoSod. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-14 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Bhumjaithai Party Opposes Casinos in Entertainment Complexes Picture courtesy: Wikimedia.org In a notable stance, the Bhumjaithai Party has declared its opposition to including casinos in Thailand’s future entertainment complexes. This announcement came at the end of a two-day parliamentary debate on the Pheu Thai-led coalition government’s policy statement, delivered by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338154-bhumjaithai-party-opposes-casinos-in-entertainment-complexes/

In a notable stance, the Bhumjaithai Party has declared its opposition to including casinos in Thailand’s future entertainment complexes. This announcement came at the end of a two-day parliamentary debate on the Pheu Thai-led coalition government’s policy statement, delivered by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Mr. Chaichanok Chidchob, the party’s secretary general and son of Bhumjaithai’s de facto leader Newin Chidchob, articulated the party’s position. While Bhumjaithai supports the development of mega entertainment complexes to boost tourism, they firmly reject the presence of casinos within these ventures. Their primary concern is ensuring that the benefits from these projects are equally distributed among Thai citizens. As the second largest partner in the coalition government, Bhumjaithai also highlighted their stance on tackling the underground lottery operations. They advocate for a system where the benefits would serve the nation and its people, rather than being monopolised by specific groups, whether domestic or foreign. The party insists on fairness and appropriate regulatory methods to manage these gambling activities. Chaichanok acknowledged the complexity and duration required to implement many of the policies discussed. He noted that while some initiatives might be accomplished within the current term, others could span several terms. Additionally, Chaichanok addressed the challenges the public faces in generating income, particularly through the sale of electricity back to utilities, reported Thai Newsroom. Currently, householders with rooftop solar panels can sell excess electricity on a net billing basis at 2.20 baht per unit, which is lower than the rates utilities charge their customers. The Bhumjaithai Party supports the introduction of a net metering scheme, which would allow for the sale of electricity at the same rate utilities charge, thereby providing fairer opportunities for citizens. The party's announcement has sparked considerable discussion, underscoring the complexities and varied opinions surrounding Thailand’s developmental policies. Picture courtesy: Wikimedia.org -- 2024-09-14 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Excise Dept. on track to meet revenue collection target of 520 billion baht Picture courtesy: NNT The Excise Department of Thailand is on track to meet its revenue collection target of 520 billion baht for the 2024 fiscal year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338153-excise-dept-on-track-to-meet-revenue-collection-target-of-520-billion-baht/