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FILE photo A Thai woman is seeking urgent help after her 80-year-old father developed a severe lung infection and tuberculosis, allegedly due to a neighbour feeding over 100 pigeons daily in Nakhon Pathom. Anisa and her father rented a house opposite a pigeon caretaker named Tew in September last year. Discovering the pigeon issue only after signing the rental contract, Anisa found herself unable to move. Footage shared by Anisa with Amarin TV shows large numbers of pigeons congregating at Tew’s house. In the video, Anisa questions the government’s lack of intervention. “Today is August 18, 2024, about 5.20pm. What are the government officials going to do about this? Hundreds of pigeons gather here. What should I do? My father is now suffering from a lung infection. This is a life-threatening disease. Please help us. She (Tew) doesn’t seem to stop her actions,” Anisa lamented. Already a heart disease patient, Anisa's father is now battling several complications, including a lung infection and tuberculosis. Anisa suspects the pigeons are the cause. Neighbour’s Actions: According to Anisa, Tew feeds the pigeons every evening, attracting large flocks. This results in the surrounding area and community being blanketed in droppings and feathers, increasing health hazards. Official Response: Anisa reported the situation to local authorities, prompting officials to warn Tew about the dangers of her actions. Tew, however, insisted she does not raise the birds, claiming they come to her by themselves. Despite the warnings, Tew continued her feeding routine, transferring it to the back of her house, but the problem persists. During a visit by Amarin TV, reporters observed the extensive pigeon presence at Tew’s home. Tew demonstrated her feeding method and bird care setup, which includes a room for sick birds with medication. Emphasising her long-time residence of over 20 years, Tew noted she has never had health issues or conflicts with neighbours. Insisting on feeding the pigeons out of compassion, she stated, “I cannot let them starve.” Despite Anisa’s pleas, relevant government departments have yet to take further action, leaving the community and Anisa’s family to contend with the ongoing issue. -- 2024-09-13 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

World’s best hotel: Bangkok’s Mandarin Oriental steals the show by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of MICHELIN Guide Bangkok’s iconic Mandarin Oriental Hotel has officially snagged the prestigious title of the Best Hotel in Asia and the World, according to The Telegraph’s Hotel Awards. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338053-world’s-best-hotel-bangkok’s-mandarin-oriental-steals-the-show/

Bangkok’s iconic Mandarin Oriental Hotel has officially snagged the prestigious title of the Best Hotel in Asia and the World, according to The Telegraph’s Hotel Awards. The British media giant, known for its high standards, placed the luxurious Thai retreat at the top of its 2024 list, beating fierce global competition. This award comes after The Telegraph’s hotel and destination experts combed through a staggering 10,000 hotel reviews to determine the crème de la crème. In a glowing review, Lee Cobaj, the head Asia judge, couldn’t contain her admiration. “There is simply nowhere else like it. The Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok, is the most wonderful hotel in the world, and to paraphrase Noël Coward, I am fonder of it than ever.” The lavish property wasn’t the only one making waves in the rankings. Hot on its heels were Europe’s top contender, Ballyfin in Ireland, followed by Ellerman House in South Africa, Hong Kong’s Peninsula Hotel, and Les Prés d’Eugénie in France—all securing coveted spots in the top five. Thailand also enjoyed another moment of glory with Six Senses Yao Noi, a serene hideaway, landing an impressive 21st place in the highly competitive awards, reported Pattaya Mail. In related news, the popular travel booking platform, Agoda, included Thailand among the world’s destinations that tourists cannot get enough of. Other countries at the top of the ranking were Japan and South Korea. Agoda had just released the Return Visitor Ranking on September 5 after surveying travellers who had recently booked their next trip on the platform. The survey suggested that more than half of the respondents visited their favourite places repeatedly. In other news, Maya Bay, located on the idyllic Phi Phi Islands in Krabi province, has been named the 5th-best beach in the world for 2024 by Beach Atlas, a website based in the United Kingdom. This prestigious recognition places Maya Bay at the top of the list not only in Thailand but also as the number one beach across the ASEAN region. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of MICHELIN Guide Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-13 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Friday 13 September 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338051-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-friday-13-september-2024/

NEWS - 13-September.mp4 The government has ordered authorities to intensify relief efforts in flood-hit northern provinces, particularly Chiang Rai. The prime minister held an urgent cabinet meeting and directed the Interior, Defense, and Agriculture ministries to evacuate people and livestock. she emphasized the need for more shelters and food kitchens and promised emergency funds will be allocated to assist victims. The PM is due to visit the north today where flooding is said to be the worst for 80 years. The Narathiwat Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for six defendants in a 2004 massacre case after they failed to show up, Human rights activists worry further delays could jeopardize the case, with the 20-year statute of limitations due to expire on October 25th. The defendants face charges of murder and unlawful detention during a protest where seven were shot and 78 others died from suffocation in army trucks. prime minister at the time Thaksin Shinawatra apologised for the massacre but stopped short of accepting responsibility. United Front of Thammasat and Demonstration leaders yesterday submitted a petition letter to a government representative to push for political amnesty for all political detainees including those charged under the lese majeste law. A construction crane on a new MRT line in Thonburi, Bangkok, collapsed yesterday afternoon, injuring a motorcycle passenger. The accident is suspected to have been caused by land subsidence. Around the region The Philippine government said it had completed the recovery of fuel cargo from a sunken oil tanker on Manila Bay, avoiding an "environmental catastrophe". The MT Terra-nova went down with 1.4 million litres of industrial fuel oil on Jul 25 in rough seas churned by a Typhoon killing one crew member. Todays Weather Chiang Mai and the north: Thundershowers 30C degrees celsius Bangkok: Thunderstorms 33 Pattaya: Sunny partly cloudy showers 32 Phuket and the south: Cloudy with thundershowers 29C Hua Hin: Bright but Cloudy, expect rain this afternoon 32C 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 2024-09-13 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Suphan Buri: Subdistrict Administrative Member Caught Exploiting 12-Year-Old Girl Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In a disturbing case from Suphan Buri, a 12-year-old girl fled to seek help after being forced into prostitution by her aunt to serve a local official in Doembang Nangbuat District. The aunt received 2,000 baht, giving only 1,000 baht to the girl. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338050-suphan-buri-subdistrict-administrative-member-caught-exploiting-12-year-old-girl/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In a disturbing case from Suphan Buri, a 12-year-old girl fled to seek help after being forced into prostitution by her aunt to serve a local official in Doembang Nangbuat District. The aunt received 2,000 baht, giving only 1,000 baht to the girl. On September 12, 2024, police from Doembang Nangbuat Station questioned a Tambon Administrative Organization Council member, identified as Mr. Sakon Phonsajjatham, following allegations of sexual abuse involving the girl. The girl's aunt reportedly arranged for her niece to provide sexual services to Mr. Sakon. Authorities, including the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, escorted the victim’s family for questioning and protection, while Mr. Sakon was interrogated. Efforts were made to keep the family and the girl under care and away from media interference. Initial investigations revealed that Mr. Sakon negotiated with the girl's aunt, who brought her niece to him for 2,000 baht. The girl was taken to a hotel, where Mr. Sakon abused her after consuming a pill. Afterwards, he returned the girl to her aunt, who gave her 1,000 baht. When the girl refused to go with Mr. Sakon again, citing pain, her aunt scolded her. Fearing further abuse, the girl sought refuge at a friend’s house, eventually contacting trusted individuals who helped her reach government authorities. The Ministry of Social Development and Human Security is now pursuing charges against Mr. Sakon for child rape. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-09-13 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Aussie Arrested in Koh Phangan for 15 Sexual Assault Cases in Australia Picture courtesy: Daily News Surat Thani Immigration Police have apprehended an Australian fugitive wanted for 15 cases of sexual assault and rape, who was hiding in Thailand for retirement. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338048-aussie-arrested-in-koh-phangan-for-15-sexual-assault-cases-in-australia/

Surat Thani Immigration Police have apprehended an Australian fugitive wanted for 15 cases of sexual assault and rape, who was hiding in Thailand for retirement. On September 12, Pol. Col. Naruwat Phuthawiro, Superintendent of Surat Thani Immigration, along with Pol. Lt. Col. Sangwansap Lapsanong and Pol. Lt. Col. Sirivat Somwang, both Deputy Superintendents, and an investigative team detained Mr. Helio, a 62-year-old Australian national, for overstaying his visa. It was discovered that Mr. Helio was subject to an INTERPOL Blue Notice for multiple sexual assault and rape charges in Australia. Pol. Col. Naruwat reported that the investigation team received a tip about Mr. Helio, who had been committing sexual crimes in Australia since 2017 and was hiding in Thailand. Mr. Helio entered Thailand on June 16, 2024, with a tourist exemption visa valid until July 15, 2024. He extended his stay by another 30 days, until August 15, 2024. Picture courtesy: Daily News During this time, Mr. Helio applied for an extension to live in Thailand for retirement, which had already expired. The team later located his residence at a resort on Koh Phangan and arrested him for overstaying his visa. He was handed over to the Koh Phangan Police Station for further legal action. Pol. Col. Naruwat emphasized that Mr. Helio’s criminal record posed a risk of further crimes if he continued to evade capture in Thailand. For public safety, citizens are urged to report any suspicious foreigners or tourists who might be criminals to Surat Thani Immigration to help prevent crimes and ensure safety in the province. TOP Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-09-13 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Man Attacks Store Owner with Iron Pipe in Samut Prakan BANGKOK - September 13th, police officers from Mueang Samut Prakan Station, together with rescue teams from Samut Prakan Hospital and Ruam Kuson Samut Prakan Foundation, responded to an assault in front of a grocery store on the main path of Soi Tai Baan 17, Tai Baan Subdistrict, Mueang District, Samut Prakan. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338045-man-attacks-store-owner-with-iron-pipe-in-samut-prakan/

BANGKOK - September 13th, police officers from Mueang Samut Prakan Station, together with rescue teams from Samut Prakan Hospital and Ruam Kuson Samut Prakan Foundation, responded to an assault in front of a grocery store on the main path of Soi Tai Baan 17, Tai Baan Subdistrict, Mueang District, Samut Prakan. At the scene, Ms. Muey (surname withheld), aged 63 and the store owner, was found unconscious with a head injury and a severe laceration behind her ear, bleeding profusely. The responders provided initial first aid before she was transported to Samut Prakan Hospital. A blood-stained metal pipe was also found at the scene. The perpetrator was identified as Mr. Suthep, also known as Tom (surname withheld), aged 33, who is the nephew of the injured woman. After attacking his aunt with the pipe, Mr. Suthep attempted to flee but was apprehended by nearby residents. Mr. Suthep's statements were incoherent, resembling someone under the influence of drugs, so the authorities took him to the police station to calm down before proceeding with the legal investigation. Picture courtesy: Daily News Further background checks revealed Mr. Suthep had a history of drug involvement and was recently released from prison for theft just 2-3 days prior. He also had a history of psychiatric treatment. At the time of the incident, Ms. Muey was watching television in front of her store when Mr. Suthep suddenly struck her with the pipe, rendering her unconscious. Nearby residents promptly surrounded and caught him, then handed him over to the police. TOP Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-09-13 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Picture: Siam Rath

PM Paetongtarn's Policy Statement critisised as Echo of Thaksin’s Vision Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra makes the policy statement at parliament in Bangkok, Thailand, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) During the parliamentary debate on the policy statement delivered by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, People’s Party MP Sirikanya Tansakul criticised the newly unveiled plans, arguing they largely mirror the ideas previously promoted by Thaksin Shinawatra, the de facto leader of the Pheu Thai Party. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338042-pm-paetongtarns-policy-statement-critisised-as-echo-of-thaksin’s-vision/

Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra makes the policy statement at parliament in Bangkok, Thailand, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) During the parliamentary debate on the policy statement delivered by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, People’s Party MP Sirikanya Tansakul criticised the newly unveiled plans, arguing they largely mirror the ideas previously promoted by Thaksin Shinawatra, the de facto leader of the Pheu Thai Party. Sirikanya highlighted that the policy statement strays significantly from Pheu Thai Party’s campaign promises. Instead, she noted, many of the Prime Minister’s initiatives echoed points made by Thaksin in his recent speech, suggesting the current government lacks originality and autonomy. "The statement is no different from former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s policies, with broad objectives but unclear goals," Sirikanya commented. She also pointed out the absence of the highly anticipated 10,000 baht digital wallet project, a key campaign promise, and questioned whether the government still plans to implement it. Thaksin had addressed 14 issues on 22nd August, and 11 of these were repeated in the policy statement, including the digital wallet project for "fragile groups." According to Sirikanya, this trend reflects a recycling of policies from the Thai Rak Thai Party, founded by Thaksin in 1998, and led until his ousting in the 2006 coup in Thailand. “This isn’t just consistent; it’s akin to AAA+ on Miller’s Pyramid of Assessment. It’s about responsibility being handed down rather than innovation,” she remarked. Sirikanya expressed concerns that future cabinet meetings might become mere formalities, with significant decisions being made by outsiders to the official government structure. She added that she seeks a Prime Minister who radiates her own brilliance, comparing the ideal leader to a shining star rather than a mere reflection like the moon. Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira later confirmed that the first phase of the 10,000 baht digital wallet payouts would begin on 25th September. The initiative targets 14.2 million people in vulnerable groups, injecting 140 billion baht into the economy. Pichai acknowledged Thailand’s economic slowdown over the past five years, stressing that immediate action is necessary to prevent further decline and to initiate a path to recovery and growth, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-09-13 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Alleged Drunk Driver Causes Traffic Jam in Pattaya After Refusing to Exit Car Following Collision By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya — An allegedly heavily intoxicated Thai driver in Pattaya caused a traffic jam after refusing to exit her car following a minor collision. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338037-alleged-drunk-driver-causes-traffic-jam-in-pattaya-after-refusing-to-exit-car/

Pattaya — An allegedly heavily intoxicated Thai driver in Pattaya caused a traffic jam after refusing to exit her car following a minor collision. At 6:06 AM on September 12th, 2024, Pattaya police received a report from local residents about a traffic accident involving a collision on Pattaya Second Road in the Nongprue sub-district. Upon receiving the report, officers, along with The Pattaya News reporters, rushed to the scene. There, residents and rescue workers were found surrounding a white Honda Civic driven by the female suspect. The driver, who was believed to be under the influence of alcohol, refused to exit the vehicle or negotiate with the other drivers, causing traffic congestion. Police spent over 30 minutes persuading the driver to step out of her car. The driver eventually complied, claiming she was allegedly waiting for insurance representatives to arrive, who never did. A bottle of alcohol was reportedly found inside the vehicle and police kept it as evidence. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS -- 2024-09-13 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Court Issues Arrest Warrants for Tak Bai Massacre Defendants After No-Shows Picture courtesy: Thai Rath The Narathiwat Court has issued arrest warrants for six defendants linked to the tragic "Tak Bai massacre" following their failure to attend their court hearings. The high-profile case revisits a dark chapter in Thailand’s history, nearly two decades after the deadly event took place. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338035-court-issues-arrest-warrants-for-tak-bai-massacre-defendants-after-no-shows/

The Narathiwat Court has issued arrest warrants for six defendants linked to the tragic "Tak Bai massacre" following their failure to attend their court hearings. The high-profile case revisits a dark chapter in Thailand’s history, nearly two decades after the deadly event took place. The seventh defendant, retired Lieutenant General Pisan Wattanawongkiri, currently a party-list MP for the ruling Pheu Thai Party, was not subject to an arrest warrant due to parliamentary immunity. The court will urgently request the House Speaker's permission to arrest Pisan or have him waive his immunity. Should he comply, Pisan would be expected to appear in court on 15th October. The six defendants who now face arrest include: - Major General Chalermchai Wirunpeth, former Fifth Infantry Division commander - Police Lieutenant General Wongkot Maneerin, former director of the Royal Thai Police’s Forward Command Centre - Police Lieutenant General Manot Kraiwong, ex-chief of Provincial Police Region 9 - Police Colonel Saksomchai Phutthakul, former superintendent of Tak Bai police station - Siwa Sangmanee, former deputy director of the Southern Border Provinces Peacebuilding Centre and later Interior Ministry deputy permanent secretary - Wichom Thongsong, ex-Narathiwat governor The court confirmed that authorities have the mandate to arrest these six defendants before the statute of limitations expires on 25th October. The massacre occurred on 25th October 2004, when approximately 1,500 Thai Muslims gathered to protest in front of the Tak Bai district police station in Narathiwat. They were rallying against the detention of six men. As tensions escalated, police responded with tear gas and live ammunition, leading to seven immediate deaths, reported Thai PBS. Following the crackdown, nearly 1,300 protesters were detained. Tragically, 78 of them died from suffocation and organ failure after being piled on top of each other in trucks during a five-hour transport to the Inkayut army camp in Pattani Province. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-09-13 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 13 September 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1338034-thailand-live-friday-13-september-2024/

Thai Hotels Struggle as Mid-Priced Rooms Fail to Attract Tourists File photo Thailand's hotel industry grappled with occupancy challenges in August, particularly within the budget and mid-priced segments. Despite a nationwide average occupancy rate improvement to 61.8% from 58.4% year-on-year, levels still lagged behind the pre-pandemic figure of 64.7%. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338003-thai-hotels-struggle-as-mid-priced-rooms-fail-to-attract-tourists/

Phuket, Thailand’s picturesque island getaway, has earned the unfortunate distinction of being the world’s most overcrowded destination. Once renowned for its serene beaches and tranquil atmosphere, Phuket now sees tourists outnumbering locals by an astonishing 118 to one. Phuket Named World’s Most Overcrowded Destination Amid Tourism Boom Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338016-phuket-named-world’s-most-overcrowded-destination-amid-tourism-boom/

Big Buddha boss charged with illegal land grab in landslide scandal byPuntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Phuket News Suporn Wanichkul, the chairperson of the Phra Phuttha Ming Mongol Sattha 45 Foundation, which oversees Phuket’s iconic Big Buddha, has landed in hot water. Accused of illegal forest encroachment, Suporn now faces serious charges connected to the deadly landslide that rocked the region last month. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337967-big-buddha-boss-charged-with-illegal-land-grab-in-landslide-scandal/

Suporn Wanichkul, the chairperson of the Phra Phuttha Ming Mongol Sattha 45 Foundation, which oversees Phuket’s iconic Big Buddha, has landed in hot water. Accused of illegal forest encroachment, Suporn now faces serious charges connected to the deadly landslide that rocked the region last month. Suporn was formally charged yesterday, September 11, at Karon Police Station by Police Lieutenant Colonel Ekkasak Kwanwan. The charge, which extends to the foundation itself, involves illegal clearing, construction, and occupation of protected forest land. Both Suporn and the foundation are accused of operating without permission, causing a ripple of local outrage following the catastrophic landslide on August 23. The landslide, which tragically claimed 19 lives, injured 19 others, and destroyed over 50 homes, has been linked to alleged illegal construction at the Big Buddha viewpoint. Locals pointed the finger at Suporn’s foundation, claiming the unapproved work destabilised the area, leading to the disaster. The Royal Forest Department (RFD) launched a full-scale investigation into the allegations, seizing over 5 rai of land that had been illegally expanded upon. Suporn, however, denies all charges personally and on behalf of the foundation, reported Phuket News. RFD Deputy Director-General Bannaruk Sermthong stated that if the foundation is found guilty of illegal encroachment, all unauthorised structures at the site will be demolished. ORIGINAL STORY: Land encroachment scandal rocks Phuket Big Buddha The Phuket Big Buddha Foundation is in hot water after the Forest Department accused its chairman of land encroachment. This follows a catastrophic mudslide that claimed 13 lives, predominantly Myanmar nationals, last week at Khao Nak Kerd, Phuket’s tallest peak. Officials from the Forest Department, along with the Phuket Buddhism Office, police, and local officials, carried out a rigorous inspection of the Big Buddha site and its surroundings yesterday, August 27. Their goal was to verify whether the entire compound adhered to the 2.4-hectare land limit stipulated by the Forest Department. Armed with GPS technology, the team uncovered a troubling discrepancy: the entire compound sprawled across approximately 3.2 hectares, exceeding the allowed area. This surplus land was used for additional parking, restrooms, and other facilities. Officials suspect that this alleged encroachment and unauthorised construction may have exacerbated the recent mudslide, triggered by heavy rains. The Big Buddha, an iconic 45-metre tall statue clad in Burmese white marble, is a significant landmark on the island. However, this controversy threatens to tarnish its revered status. The Forest Department’s complaint now puts the spotlight on the foundation’s chairman, raising questions about regulatory compliance and the broader impact on the local environment, reported Thai PBS World. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Phuket News Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-12 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Banglamung Police Confused by Suspects Claim to be 100 Years Old During Drug Arrest By Adam Judd Police officers at Banglamung Police Station were left perplexed after arresting a suspect who claimed to be over 100 years old, despite his identification card stating he was 33 and him clearly appearing to be decades younger. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337966-banglamung-police-confused-by-suspects-claim-to-be-100-years-old-during-drug-arrest/

Police officers at Banglamung Police Station were left perplexed after arresting a suspect who claimed to be over 100 years old, despite his identification card stating he was 33 and him clearly appearing to be decades younger. At approximately 3:00 AM on September 11th, 2024, Pol. Col. Nawin Sinthurat, Superintendent of Banglamung Police Station, assigned officers to crack down on illegal activities in the area. The team, led by Pol. Lt. Col. Kornpong Sukwisit, Deputy Superintendent of Investigation, were conducting their patrol when they encountered a motorcycle without license plates and non-functional headlights and taillights. Upon inspection, the officers discovered two methamphetamine pills in the possession of Mr. Anuwat, also known as Ta Khamloet, aged 33, from Sakon Nakhon Province. The pills were found in a clear plastic bag inside a black cigarette box labeled “VOXX.” A subsequent urine test confirmed the presence of drugs. By Adam Judd Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS -- 2024-09-12 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe