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Foreigner Breaks into Pattaya Cannabis Shop, Steals Goods worth 10,000 Baht Picture courtesy: CH7HDnews A foreigner smashed a window to steal cannabis products valued at over 10,000 baht from a shop in Pattaya, before making an escape. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350667-foreigner-breaks-into-pattaya-cannabis-shop-steals-goods-worth-10000-baht/

Picture courtesy: CH7HDnews A foreigner smashed a window to steal cannabis products valued at over 10,000 baht from a shop in Pattaya, before making an escape. On 3rd February, Mr Atipon, aged 35, owner of the cannabis shop located on Soi Chaloem Phrakiat 3, Nong Prue, Bang Lamung in Chonburi province, reported the incident to the Pattaya City Police. He provided CCTV footage to Police Inspector Pol. Lt. Col. Wutthinan Khongdee, showing the break-in and theft. Mr Atipon revealed that the suspect, a frequent customer at his shop, took advantage of the shop being closed and unattended to carry out the theft. The police have started reviewing the CCTV footage as part of their investigation to apprehend the suspect and proceed with legal action, reported CH7HDnews. -- 2025-02-03

Chinese Embassy Condemns Thai Human Rights Commissioner's Remarks Picture courtesy: Facebook Chinese Embassy Bangkok The Chinese Embassy in Bangkok has expressed strong disapproval over comments by a member of Thailand’s National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), labelling them as "heinous and shameful" falsehoods regarding China's treatment of its Muslim population. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350663-chinese-embassy-condemns-thai-human-rights-commissioners-remarks/

Picture courtesy: Facebook Chinese Embassy Bangkok The Chinese Embassy in Bangkok has expressed strong disapproval over comments by a member of Thailand’s National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), labelling them as "heinous and shameful" falsehoods regarding China's treatment of its Muslim population. This diplomatic spat erupted following an NHRC commissioner's statements to the Thai press on 29th January. The commissioner accused China of mistreating Muslims, further alleging that some, upon being repatriated to China, faced grim fates, including being killed. In a rebuke published on the embassy's webpage, Chinese officials emphasised China's commitment to human rights and the freedom of religious practice, as enshrined in its Constitution and government policies. They categorically denied claims that the Chinese government has banned the Qur'an and the Arabic language, dismissing such accusations as disconnected from reality. Nonetheless, the embassy acknowledged past instances where some Chinese nationals were influenced by anti-government factions to illegally migrate to Thailand with purported intentions of engaging in illicit activities. The Chinese stance suggests that individuals involved would receive legal protection in China and be reintegrated into society. While the embassy did not name these individuals, it is widely understood that they refer to Uyghurs—an ethnic minority group—detained in Bangkok by the Immigration Bureau for roughly a decade, awaiting possible repatriation to China. The Uyghur issue has been a point of contention, particularly with international human rights groups expressing concern over their safety if returned to China. The strained diplomatic dialogue underscores the ongoing sensitivity surrounding China's policies toward its minority populations, particularly the Uyghurs. In defending its human rights record, the Chinese Embassy aims to mitigate what it perceives as misinformation detrimental to its international reputation. Meanwhile, the comments from the NHRC have set the stage for potential diplomatic tension between Thailand and China, two countries that maintain significant economic and political ties. This development comes at a time when international scrutiny of China's human rights practices remains heightened, with various governments and organisations closely monitoring the treatment of Uyghurs and other minority groups within the country's borders. As both nations navigate this diplomatic unease, the focus remains on upholding open dialogue, respecting each other’s perspectives, and reaffirming commitments to human rights on both local and international platforms, reported Thai PBS. -- 2025-02-03

Thai Cabinet allocates 3.14 billion baht for new Phuket hospital by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of PSU Phuket The Thai Cabinet has sanctioned a budget of 3.14 billion baht for the establishment of Songklanagarind Hospital Phuket, a significant healthcare endeavour under Prince of Songkla University (PSU). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350655-thai-cabinet-allocates-314-billion-baht-for-new-phuket-hospital/

Picture courtesy of PSU Phuket by Bright Choomanee The Thai Cabinet has sanctioned a budget of 3.14 billion baht for the establishment of Songklanagarind Hospital Phuket, a significant healthcare endeavour under Prince of Songkla University (PSU). This project, scheduled for execution between 2026 and 2029, is designed to bolster healthcare services across Phuket and the Andaman region. The allocated funds are set to be distributed over four fiscal years: 2026 will receive 749.50 million baht (US$22 million), 2027 will have 1,031.89 million baht (US$30.5 million), 2028 will be allocated 938.92 million baht (US$27.8 million), and 2029 will receive 420 million baht (US$12.4 million). PSU is also required to submit a budget request for 2026 in line with Section 26 of the Budget Procedure Act B.E. 2561 for allocations exceeding 1 billion baht (US$29.5 million) to the Budget Bureau. According to Cabinet minutes, the hospital is deemed essential for tackling public health system challenges in Phuket and the Andaman region. The province currently struggles with a lack of skilled medical personnel equipped to manage complex diseases and has inadequate workforce development in health sciences and public health. These issues are particularly pressing due to Phuket’s significant role in the high-value tourism sector and the escalating demand for medical tourism services. To address these issues, PSU intends to enhance medical education and workforce development in the area. Their plans include training new graduates, improving the skills of existing professionals, and developing specialised skills to support both public and private healthcare sectors. Phuket hospital The initiative is part of Thailand’s broader strategy to establish itself as a global leader in medical tourism. The Songklanagarind Hospital Phuket will feature a 300-bed specialised medical centre offering advanced tertiary care, precision medicine, and telemedicine services. It aims to complement the existing Ministry of Public Health hospitals in the region by providing treatment for complex diseases and reinforcing the overall healthcare system. Additionally, the hospital will play a crucial role in the Phuket Health Sandbox project, which integrates public health advancements with economic development. With an emphasis on research, innovation, and sustainability, PSU envisions the facility as pivotal in strengthening Thailand’s position as a leader in medical tourism. In April 2023, the newly promoted 500-bed Songklanagarind Phuket Hospital was anticipated to generate 1.6 billion baht (US$47.3 million) annually from international visitors. The announcement followed an event where MBK Group donated 36 rai of land valued at 400 million baht (US$11.8 million), situated next to the Red Mountain Golf Course in Kathu, to PSU for the hospital’s construction, reported The Phuket News. In October 2022, the Cabinet approved over 5.1 billion baht (US$150 million) to construct the Andaman International Health Centre on a 141-rai site in Mai Khao, at the northern tip of Phuket. However, this project did not materialise despite years of promotion by government officials. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-02-03

Thailand Targets Substandard Online Goods in Major Clean-Up File photo courtesy: Wikipedia In an assertive move to protect consumers and bolster trust in e-commerce, Thailand's Commerce Ministry is spearheading an initiative to crack down on substandard and non-compliant goods sold online. The campaign, involving a collaboration with 16 governmental agencies and major e-commerce platforms, aims to enhance the integrity and safety of online marketplaces. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350654-thailand-targets-substandard-online-goods-in-major-clean-up/

File photo courtesy: Wikipedia In an assertive move to protect consumers and bolster trust in e-commerce, Thailand's Commerce Ministry is spearheading an initiative to crack down on substandard and non-compliant goods sold online. The campaign, involving a collaboration with 16 governmental agencies and major e-commerce platforms, aims to enhance the integrity and safety of online marketplaces. Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan announced that any substandard products discovered online will be swiftly removed under a newly adopted "notice and takedown" policy. This concerted effort is designed to shield consumers from low-quality items and promote confidence in digital shopping environments. Central to this strategy is a collective effort by government entities and e-commerce operators to enhance product monitoring, heighten consumer awareness, and safeguard local small and medium-sized enterprises. The objective is not only to prune online shelves of inferior goods but also to build a more robust and transparent e-commerce landscape. A crucial element of the initiative involves the dissemination of educational materials to both consumers and sellers, emphasising the importance of engaging in transactions involving safe and legally compliant products. Mr. Pichai revealed plans to introduce guidelines for identifying and managing substandard products, streamlining processes and ensuring swift action against violations. The coalition fighting subpar goods comprises key agencies such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Thai Industrial Standards Institute (TISI), Office of the Consumer Protection Board (OCPB), and others, alongside influential e-commerce platforms like Lazada, Shopee, TikTok Shop, and eBay. This formidable alliance underscores the seriousness of the crackdown and the resources being mobilised to tackle the issue. Reflecting on past enforcement efforts, Mr. Pichai highlighted that between October and December 2024, the FDA, TISI, OCPB, and the Customs Department collectively identified 16,651 violations relating to product safety and quality, resulting in damages totalling 984 million Thai Baht. As stricter measures were enforced, the presence of foreign goods on e-commerce platforms saw a decline, evidencing the impact of these robust actions. From July to December 2024, the monthly sales average of foreign goods dwindled to 3.65 billion Thai Baht, down from 3.96 billion in the preceding months. Through these combined efforts, the Commerce Ministry aims to foster a safer, more reliable digital market, benefitting consumers and merchants alike. This initiative marks a significant step towards enhancing Thailand's e-commerce reliability and protecting its vast community of online shoppers from substandard and potentially harmful goods, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-03

Anutin's PM Prospects Rise as Bhumjaithai Gains Ground Anutin Charnvirakul. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia In a significant political development, the Bhumjaithai (BJT) Party, under the leadership of Anutin Charnvirakul, has emerged as a formidable force in Thailand's political arena following its stellar performance in the recent local polls. Analysts are now speculating that Anutin might be a strong contender for the prime ministership in the next general election. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350653-anutins-pm-prospects-rise-as-bhumjaithai-gains-ground/

Anutin Charnvirakul. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia In a significant political development, the Bhumjaithai (BJT) Party, under the leadership of Anutin Charnvirakul, has emerged as a formidable force in Thailand's political arena following its stellar performance in the recent local polls. Analysts are now speculating that Anutin might be a strong contender for the prime ministership in the next general election. This weekend's local elections were conducted across 47 provinces, offering insights into shifting political allegiances. BJT's showing has spelled trouble for the ruling Pheu Thai Party, led by the influential Thaksin Shinawatra. Viewed traditionally as strongholds of the Pheu Thai, the Northern and Northeastern regions witnessed notable inroads made by BJT, indicative of changing public sentiment. The election results were telling: Pheu Thai retained control of 16 Provincial Administrative Organisations (PAO), whilst BJT clinched 14. In comparison, the People's Party managed to secure only a single PAO chair, despite contesting 17 across the country. Other notable results included the United Thai Nation (UTN) claiming four seats, with the opposition Democrat Party and several independent candidates securing a modest share. The implications of the results became clearer as experts weighed in. Wanwichit Boonprong of Rangsit University suggested that BJT's newfound electoral success could allow it greater leverage in coalition negotiations come the general elections. An alliance with Pheu Thai, previously seen as guarantor for its political aspirations, might not be necessary should BJT continue its upward trajectory. With potential coalition reshuffles on the horizon, some speculate BJT may coalesce with the People's Party if it proves electorally fruitful. This evolving strategy signals BJT's intent to capitalise on its political momentum to influence future governance more fundamentally. Political scientist Olarn Thinbangtieo of Burapha University echoed these sentiments. He stressed that strengthened relations with grassroots organisations like the Senate and PAOs bolstered Anutin's prime ministerial prospects. These alignments could be decisive should Pheu Thai falter, or BJT outpace its adversaries in the next election. Despite Pheu Thai's enduring influence, reflected in its maintained presence in certain regions such as Chiang Rai and Nakhon Phanom, Thaksin's once indomitable political brand appears to be facing challenges. His campaign efforts did not deliver the anticipated swing in voter support, causing some to question if BJT's rise might alter the political landscape substantially. As the country inches closer to the general elections, these results underscore the dynamic and competitive nature of Thai politics. Observers, citizens, and stakeholders now keenly watch Anutin and BJT's next moves, hopeful for clues about Thailand's future leadership. With BJT's path to power becoming clearer, the stakes for all parties involved have never been higher, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-03

Malaysian PM Meets Thaksin to Discuss Myanmar and Crypto Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has shared a photo on his Facebook page depicting a meeting with former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Anwar, currently chair of ASEAN, had previously appointed Thaksin as his personal advisor. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350651-malaysian-pm-meets-thaksin-to-discuss-myanmar-and-crypto/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has shared a photo on his Facebook page depicting a meeting with former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Anwar, currently chair of ASEAN, had previously appointed Thaksin as his personal advisor. In his post dated 2nd February 2025, Anwar reported a productive discussion with Thaksin, who serves as the head of his informal advisory panel. Their talks covered several critical issues, notably the situation in Myanmar and developments in cryptocurrency. The meeting also extended into a dinner gathering with George Yeo, a former Minister of Foreign Affairs for Singapore. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2025-02-03

Police Search Khao San Road Bars in Drug-Free Campaign Picture courtesy: Daily News In a concerted effort to maintain a 'drug-free' environment in nightlife venues, Bangkok police conducted searches on several bars along Khao San Road on 2nd February. The operation was part of a government directive aimed at preventing drug-related activities in entertainment districts. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350644-police-search-khao-san-road-bars-in-drug-free-campaign/

Picture courtesy: Daily News In a concerted effort to maintain a 'drug-free' environment in nightlife venues, Bangkok police conducted searches on several bars along Khao San Road on 2nd February. The operation was part of a government directive aimed at preventing drug-related activities in entertainment districts. Led by Police Colonel Ekkapop Tanprayoon, deputy commander of the Metropolitan Police Division 1, the operation involved officers from Chanasongkram Police Station, tourist police, and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, alongside the Office of the Narcotics Control Board. The collaborative force aimed to prevent crime and suppress drug-related activities in the popular area. Four establishments were targeted in the inspections: The Club, ReRe Khao San, Khao San Centre, and Lucky Beer. Officers checked patrons to ensure all were over the legal age of 20, and conducted searches for weapons and illegal substances both inside the venues and in the adjacent car parks. Picture courtesy: Daily News The operation resulted in no underage individuals found, and no evidence of drug use or possession of weapons was detected. A total of 39 individuals were subjected to random urine tests, all of which came back negative for drugs. Police Colonel Sanong Saengmanee from Chanasongkram Police Station stressed the importance of strict adherence to regulations by venue managers. He instructed them to rigorously check IDs, search for weapons before allowing entry, adhere to legal closing times, and prohibit any form of gambling on the premises, reported Daily News. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2025-02-03

Man arrested after 18 years for assaulting minor in Thailand by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A 37 year old man, Apichat, was apprehended after evading arrest for 18 years following a criminal act involving a minor. He was accused of luring a 17 year old girl, Bee, on a trip to Bang Saen Beach, where he later got her drunk before committing sexual assault. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350637-man-arrested-after-18-years-for-assaulting-minor-in-thailand/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod by Bright Choomanee A 37 year old man, Apichat, was apprehended after evading arrest for 18 years following a criminal act involving a minor. He was accused of luring a 17 year old girl, Bee, on a trip to Bang Saen Beach, where he later got her drunk before committing sexual assault. Police Colonel Witthaya Sriprasertphap, acting commander of the Crime Suppression Division, ordered the arrest, carried out by Police Colonel Wiwat Jitsopakun and Police Colonel Warat Sermsujit, today, February 2. Apichat was detained outside a residence in Mueang district, Lop Buri province. The arrest was based on a warrant issued on October 24, 2006, by the Chachoengsao Provincial Court, charging him with taking a minor under 18 for lewd acts and rape. In 2006, Apichat resided in Chachoengsao province and invited Bee, a 17 year old acquaintance from his neighbourhood, along with friends, to visit Bang Saen Beach in Chon Buri province. On their return, Apichat deceived Bee into continuing the drinking session at his residence in Mueang district, Chachoengsao province. Subsequently, noticing Bee’s inebriation, Apichat took her to a bedroom and assaulted her. Upon regaining consciousness, Bee disclosed the incident to her parents, who reported it to the Chachoengsao city police. Apichat fled the area immediately after the crime, reported KhaoSod. After remaining a fugitive for over 18 years, Apichat was eventually captured. During interrogation, he confessed to the charges. He was subsequently handed over to the Chachoengsao city police for legal proceedings. Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In similar news, a high school teacher allegedly sexually assaulted a 13 year old girl in the art classroom of a school in the northern province of Phitsanulok over several months. The parents of the 13 year old victim filed a complaint against the male teacher at Mueang Phitsanulok Police Station and later shared details of the case with DailyNews on January 21. They wanted to put pressure on the Ministry of Education to take swift action. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-02-03

Rescue Operation Saves Hong Kong Woman from Myanmar Call-Centre Gang Picture courtesy: Top News In a significant international effort, a 31-year-old Hong Kong woman was rescued from the clutches of a notorious call-centre scam ring operating in Myanmar. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350630-rescue-operation-saves-hong-kong-woman-from-myanmar-call-centre-gang/

Picture courtesy: Top News In a significant international effort, a 31-year-old Hong Kong woman was rescued from the clutches of a notorious call-centre scam ring operating in Myanmar. This case has drawn attention to the ongoing exploitation and trafficking of individuals in Southeast Asia, particularly by criminal groups seeking to profit from illicit online operations targeting unwitting victims worldwide. The joint rescue operation was led by the Royal Thai Army and Royal Thai Police. It followed an alert by the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB), which warned of several Hong Kong citizens being forcibly employed by Chinese gangs running call centres and online gambling platforms from Myanmar. This particular criminal outfit was believed to be active in an area close to the Thai border in Tak Province, a region notorious as a hotbed for illegal operations. The ONCB had reported that the Hong Kong nationals were seeking to escape and cross into Thailand from the vicinity south of Myawaddy, a strategic location controlled by the Democratic Karen Buddhist Army (DKBA). Myawaddy sits opposite Thailand’s Phop Phra district, an area frequently associated with cross-border criminal activities. Upon receiving critical intelligence from the ONCB, the Thai authorities swiftly moved into action. They enlisted the help of Pol Col Nat Promthep, a police attaché at the Thai Embassy in Rangoon, to coordinate with the DKBA commanders. Thanks to these coordinated efforts and diplomatic engagement with local authorities, the Hong Kong woman was successfully extracted and brought back to safety in Thailand on Sunday. The Thai Army confirmed her well-being and stated that arrangements are being made to facilitate her return to Hong Kong at the earliest opportunity. This operation underscores the importance of international cooperation in tackling such transnational crimes and rescuing victims stranded in hostile environments. This rescue sheds light on the persisting, often underreported issue of human trafficking and forced labour in Southeast Asia, where vulnerable individuals are often coerced into working for criminal syndicates. Authorities continue to stress the need for vigilance and stronger law enforcement measures across borders to thwart such criminal enterprises and ensure the safety of citizens across the region. As the investigation proceeds, further efforts will be devoted to dismantling these networks and preventing future exploitation, reported The Nation. -- 2025-02-03

Thai Woman Arrested Over B6bn Romance Scam Connection Picture courtesy: MGR online In a significant development in what has been dubbed Thailand's largest romance scam, a Thai woman has been apprehended at Hat Yai International Airport. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350628-thai-woman-arrested-over-b6bn-romance-scam-connection/

Picture courtesy: MGR online In a significant development in what has been dubbed Thailand's largest romance scam, a Thai woman has been apprehended at Hat Yai International Airport. Authorities reported that 52-year-old Orathai, whose surname remains confidential, was arrested upon arrival from Malaysia, following an extensive investigation by the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB). This scam, which came to light in 2024, involved a counterfeit online persona of a supposed US military doctor based in Afghanistan. The sophisticated ruse targeted a high-ranking financial professional specifically, the Chief Financial Officer of a multinational corporation's Thai division. The deceit led to illicit transfers totalling an eye-watering 6.3 billion baht (approximately £139 million) from the company. Orathai now stands accused of participating in a series of serious offences. These include membership in a clandestine society, engagement in criminal association, involvement in a transnational criminal organisation, and complicity in fraud and identity theft, not to mention money laundering activities. The arrest forms part of a broader crackdown, with warrants issued for almost 100 suspects, both Thai and Nigerian nationals. The investigation ambitiously spans across several countries as authorities scramble to apprehend those involved. Upon her arrest, Orathai admitted to her identity after being presented with the arrest warrant. She revealed that her Nigerian companion had persuaded her to open Thai bank accounts for his alleged business interests, citing his inability as a foreign national to do so himself. These accounts were subsequently managed by him, facilitating numerous deceitful transactions. Financial forensic analysis unveiled connections between Orathai's accounts and those implicated in fraudulent activities, prompting her arrest. Her relationship with the Nigerian partner, whom she met while working in a Malaysian massage parlour in 2017, appears central to the unfolding drama. For nearly two years, she lived with him in Malaysia, supported financially without needing to work—a lifestyle that lulled her into reportedly unwitting complicity. "He convinced me to open bank accounts to help him start a business in Thailand," Orathai divulged, claiming her innocence in the scam's initial phases. "He offered me 6,500 baht per account without any knowledge of their fraudulent use." The arrest was strategically executed following a tip-off about her planned visit to Thailand to see her child. The ongoing investigation continues to peel back the layers on what has become a landmark case of international cyber fraud, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2025-02-03

Thai PM Unveils Policies and Achievements in First TV Address Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV In her inaugural monthly television broadcast on Sunday, Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra laid out her administration's early-year progress while outlining future goals. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350627-thai-pm-unveils-policies-and-achievements-in-first-tv-address/

Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV In her inaugural monthly television broadcast on Sunday, Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra laid out her administration's early-year progress while outlining future goals. The programme, dubbed "Okat Thai Kap Nayok Paetongtarn" or "Opportunities for Thailand with Prime Minister Paetongtarn," aims to keep the public informed about government actions and developments. It airs on the first Sunday of each month on the government-run NBT HD2 channel. Opening with healthcare, she highlighted the recent upgrade to the country's universal healthcare scheme. As of 1 January, Thai citizens can now seek medical services anywhere in the country under the enhanced 30-baht scheme. This change represents the government's commitment to improving access to healthcare for all. The Prime Minister also outlined the government's One District, One Scholarship programme, which is set to extend its reach. The initiative will now offer funding for summer camps to one student in each district, broadening educational opportunities beyond just the top-ranking students. "Everyone deserves a chance to learn and grow," she asserted, envisioning long-term benefits for Thailand's future. Continuing on the theme of societal improvement, Paetongtarn discussed the Ban Pheu Khon Thai project. This housing initiative, launched on 17 January, aims to provide affordable quality homes on state land, featuring good transport links and payment plans starting at approximately 4,000 Baht per month (around £90). Notably, the project requires no down payment, offering leases capped at 99 years, which has already garnered a positive reception from potential homeowners. In what she described as a landmark achievement, she celebrated the enactment of the marriage equality law on 23 January. Recognising nearly two decades of advocacy work, she praised the efforts of those who contributed to this landmark legislation, emphasizing Thailand's commitment to equality and inclusivity. During her address, the Prime Minister also reflected on her recent attendance at the World Economic Forum in Davos. There, she seized the opportunity to promote investment in Thailand, marking the Thailand Reception as a significant success. The fight against air pollution was another focal point. Despite extensive planning and initiatives, such as free public transport to reduce vehicle emissions, PM2.5 levels remain problematic. The free electric rail and public bus services have already led to a reduction of 500,000 vehicles on the roads, evidencing a positive impact on emissions. Paetongtarn also highlighted collaboration with ASEAN leaders to tackle transboundary pollution, reported Bangkok Post. Finally, addressing public curiosity regarding her clothing choices, she emphasized her dedication to ensuring governmental work meets public satisfaction, underscoring her genuine priority for Thailand's progress over personal appearances. -- 2025-02-03

Bangkokians Dub State Efforts to Combat PM2.5 as Ineffective: Poll File photo In a recent survey conducted by the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA), a significant portion of Bangkok's residents expressed dissatisfaction with the efforts of state agencies in managing the capital's persistent PM2.5 pollution crisis. This pressing environmental issue has seen growing public concern over government actions and their efficacy. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350604-bangkokians-dub-state-efforts-to-combat-pm25-as-ineffective-poll/

Thai Workforce Faces Decline Amid Low Birth Rates, Experts Warn AP file photo Thailand is on the brink of a demographic challenge as experts sound the alarm over the country's plummeting birth rate and its potential repercussions on the workforce. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350583-thai-workforce-faces-decline-amid-low-birth-rates-experts-warn/

Thai Protesters Urge UN to Decline Migrant Worker Appeal File photo for reference only. Courtesy Associated Press (AP) Amid rising tensions surrounding migrant labour in Thailand, a group called "Thais Won’t Tolerate" is imploring the United Nations to ignore appeals from Myanmar workers seeking improved conditions. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350583-thai-workforce-faces-decline-amid-low-birth-rates-experts-warn/