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Thai supermarket Big C to launch four new branches by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Big C Supercenter Plc, one of Thailand’s biggest supermarket and convenience store chains, is set to expand with the launch of four additional branches by the end of 2025. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337961-thai-supermarket-big-c-to-launch-four-new-branches/

Big C Supercenter Plc, one of Thailand’s biggest supermarket and convenience store chains, is set to expand with the launch of four additional branches by the end of 2025. Company Chief Executive and President Aswin Techajareonvikul announced plans to renovate 18 existing stores and open one new store this year, with a total investment of 5 billion baht. “Moreover, the company aims to add three more stores by the end of 2025 and continue to expand its Big C Mini convenience store.” Currently, Big C operates over 1,800 stores across Thailand and in international locations such as Hong Kong, Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam. The company has decided not to renew lease agreements for its Sukhaphiban 3-2 branch in Bang Kapi, Bangkok, and the Rangsit 2 branch in Lam Luk Ka, Pathum Thani. The branches will remain open until September 15 and 30, respectively. “The employees can transfer to nearby Big C branches or apply to work for Big C in their hometowns on a voluntary basis.” Additionally, Big C announced the relocation of its Rat Burana branch in Bangkok to a new freehold area under Berli Jucker Plc at the Chao Phraya River basin. The current store will remain open until October 31, and the newly relocated store is expected to open next year, reported Bangkok Post. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-12 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Foreigner Steals Taxi While High on Cannabis, Crashes into Lamp Post Picture courtesy: Daily News Pattaya - A Foreign man, reportedly high on cannabis, stole a taxi that was left running outside a convenience store. He drove only a short distance before crashing into a lamp post, causing severe damage to the vehicle and sustaining minor injuries himself. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337958-foreigner-steals-taxi-while-high-on-cannabis-crashes-into-lamp-post/

Pattaya - Foreign man, reportedly high on cannabis, stole a taxi that was left running outside a convenience store. He drove only a short distance before crashing into a lamp post, causing severe damage to the vehicle and sustaining minor injuries himself. On September 12, Deputy Inspector Puttarak Sonkamhan from Pattaya’s Dongtan Police Station was alerted to an accident where a foreigner had crashed a vehicle into a lamp post on Thappraya-Jomtien Road. At the scene, police found a heavily damaged blue-and-yellow taxi, registration number 721. Behind the wheel was a foreign man, estimated to be between 25-35 years old, visibly intoxicated and wearing only boxer shorts. The man admitted he had smoked cannabis before the incident. The taxi driver, Sarayut Panprasong, 37, explained that he had left the vehicle running while he entered the store. He saw the foreigner quickly get into the car and drive off before crashing into a nearby lamp post. Fortunately, traffic police conducting an alcohol checkpoint nearby intervened and apprehended the suspect. The foreign man was taken to the Pattaya Police Station to sober up before further questioning and legal proceedings. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-09-12 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai PM Expresses Concern Over Floods in Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai Picture courtesy: NNT Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has voiced concerns over the severe flooding that has wreaked havoc in Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337955-thai pm-expresses-concern-over-floods-in-chiang-rai-and-chiang-mai/

Picture courtesy: NNT Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has voiced concerns over the severe flooding that has wreaked havoc in Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai. Reports from the Office of the National Water Resources (ONWR) pinpointed heavy rainfall as the primary cause, leading to flash floods affecting thousands of residents. The Prime Minister took to social media to convey her worries, stating she is keenly monitoring the situation. She emphasised the urgency of the response, with local authorities and emergency services working around the clock to provide relief to those impacted. Resources and personnel are being prioritised to ensure swift assistance. Residents in affected areas are encouraged to use the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation's hotline, 1784, to report needs or seek help. This hotline is part of an effort to streamline the response and ensure that those in urgent need can receive timely assistance. In her address, Prime Minister Shinawatra extended her support to the flood-affected communities, reassuring them that the government is fully committed to aiding the recovery process. She also expressed appreciation for the relentless efforts of the emergency services and local officials who have been instrumental in the relief operations. The ONWR has warned of potential continued rainfall in the region over the coming days, urging residents to stay vigilant and follow any advisories or evacuation orders from local authorities. They have also begun to assess the damages and are looking into long-term measures to mitigate future flooding risks. Thus far, the region has seen significant community solidarity, with local businesses and volunteers joining forces to support those displaced by the floods. Emergency shelters have been set up to accommodate families who have had to leave their homes, offering them food, water, and medical assistance. As Prime Minister Shinawatra continues to oversee the situation, citizens are reminded to stay informed through official channels and take all necessary precautions to ensure their safety. -- 2024-09-12 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Coach of Tham Luang Cave Boys Trapped Again - by typhoon floods Screenshot social media pages Ekkapol Chantawong, the coach of the "Wild Boars" football team that gained worldwide attention after their dramatic cave rescue in 2018, is now facing another life-threatening situation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337952-thai-coach-of-tham-luang-cave-boys-trapped-again -by-typhoon-floods/

Ekkapol Chantawong, the coach of the "Wild Boars" football team that gained worldwide attention after their dramatic cave rescue in 2018, is now facing another life-threatening situation. This time, he's stranded on the roof of his house due to flash floods caused by Typhoon Yagi in Mae Sai, northern Thailand. Ekkapol shared his experience with AFP on Wednesday (Sep. 11). He described how the floodwaters rose suddenly early Tuesday morning, leaving him, his girlfriend, and her aunt with no time to escape. They spent the night on the roof as the waters continued to rise. "I was scared, but I told myself to stay calm and assess the situation," Ekkapol said. Though the floodwaters have receded slightly, allowing them to access the ground floor, the strong current outside still prevents them from leaving safely. Typhoon Yagi has caused widespread destruction, bringing deadly flash floods and landslides to northern Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, and Myanmar. Despite the dire circumstances, Ekkapol remains hopeful, drawing on his experience from the 2018 cave rescue. "I don't feel more pressure now. I see a way out," he noted, emphasizing the importance of staying focused and solving the problem at hand, reported Thai Newsroom. When asked if he could imagine facing another similar ordeal, Ekkapol laughed and replied, "It's hard to predict the future, but I hope I don't have to spend another night on the roof." TOP: Screenshot social media pages -- 2024-09-12 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Thursday 12 September 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337951-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-thursday-12-september-2024/

NEWS - 12-September.mp4 Severe flooding continues to affect the northern region as major rivers overflow and landslides occur. Hundreds of roads have been closed, and several villages remain isolated, with water levels reaching up to 1 meter in some areas. Many residents have been evacuated, while others have relocated to hotels and hostels that have lowered their rates to provide shelter. Volunteers, local groups, and restaurants are actively preparing and distributing food packages to those in need. The coach of the young Thai football team that became trapped and rescued from a cave in Chaing Rai 5 years ago found himself - stuck on his roof yesterday following flash floods. Ekkapol Chanta-wong said he was drawing on his 2018 experience to get through his latest ordeal at his home. A US agricultural and construction company has agreed to pay $10 million to settle SEC charges that its Thai subsidiary bribed state agencies to secure contracts. The bribes, made between 2017 and 2020, included massage parlor services, luxury trips, and improper gifts, despite breaching the subsidiary's code of conduct. Police say Around 700 call center scam cases are reported to them daily, with annual losses amounting to some 450 billion baht. according to a public prosecutor, Despite ongoing investigations, authorities have recovered only 2% of the stolen funds and struggle to address the issue effectively. The Anti-Online Scam Operation Centre provides a 24/7 assistance through it’s hotline at 1441. The Transport Ministry confirms there is no plan to relocate Bangkok Port, but intends to renovate its unused areas into smart communities. The government also plans to improve the port's facilities for better water transport and logistics. Details about building an entertainment complex at the port will be finalized after the government's policy statement is presented in parliament today. Around the region North Korea fired multiple short-range ballistic missiles off its east coast early this morning, its first launch in more than two months, Japan's Coast Guard also said a projectile, believed to be a ballistic missile was fired from North Korea. Todays Weather Storm yagi is now over Myanmar moving away heading towards Bangladesh. We can still expect further rain in the far north of Thailand Chiang Mai and the north: Thundershowers 30C degrees celsius Bangkok: Thundershowers 34 Pattaya: Sunny partly cloudy 32 Phuket and the south: Cloudy with thundershowers 30C 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 2024-09-12 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Harsher Penalties for "Drunk Driving and Repeat Offenders" Demanded Image by jcomp on Freepik Thai Health Promotion Foundation (THPF) is calling for stricter penalties for "drunk driving and repeat offenders" in collaboration with eight organizations, urging the government to amend laws. They propose tougher punishments and improved technology to reduce road accidents sustainably. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337950-harsher-penalties-for-drunk-driving-and-repeat-offenders-demanded/

Thai Health Promotion Foundation (THPF) is calling for stricter penalties for "drunk driving and repeat offenders" in collaboration with eight organizations, urging the government to amend laws. They propose tougher punishments and improved technology to reduce road accidents sustainably. At a recent event, "Two Years of Repeat Offenses in Drunk Driving and Law Enforcement in Thailand," Dr. Pairoj Saonuam of THPF highlighted the dangers of drunk driving, citing 284,253 deaths or injuries from 2019-2023, with economic losses of 370 billion baht. During Songkran 2024, 207 drunk driving incidents were reported, underscoring the need for harsher penalties. Their policy recommendations include short-term monitoring systems for offenses, medium-term tech enhancements like breathalyzers and fingerprint verification, and long-term legal amendments to increase penalties based on alcohol levels. Mr. Surasit Silpongam of the Don't Drink and Drive Foundation emphasized the rising number of victims, while Dr. Chanin Chakkraphayotin suggested using Alcohol Interlock devices to prevent intoxicated drivers from starting their vehicles. Major Pote Thapnadul of the Royal Thai Police stressed the need for improved tools and enforcement. Lastly, Mr. Kosolwat Intujunyong from the Attorney General's Office pledged support for victims seeking justice and called for clear processes to prevent repeat offenders from escaping justice. Image by jcomp on Freepik -- 2024-09-12 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Anutin Responds to Leaked Audio Clip: "It's an Old Issue" Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Anutin Charnvirakul, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, acknowledged a leaked audio clip circulating in the media but downplayed its significance, stating it's an outdated issue. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337949-anutin-responds-to-leaked-audio-clip-its-an-old-issue/

Anutin Charnvirakul, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, acknowledged a leaked audio clip circulating in the media but downplayed its significance, stating it's an outdated issue. The clip, which references the appointment of officials and a request for positions, was aired on the TV program "Jaorok Thua Thai" Inside Thailand. On September 11, 2024, at the Parliament building, Anutin, who is also the leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, addressed the matter. He explained that he received the clip but found the audio unclear during the meeting and needed a quieter environment to listen properly. When asked about possible position trading, Anutin denied any such practices currently exist, stating that the clip is old and irrelevant to today's situation, reported Thai Rath. He noted that while the issue might have been discussed in the past, it no longer holds significance. Anutin refrained from speculating on whether the clip was released as part of a political vendetta, stating that it’s best to remain uninvolved if one has no direct connection. He also indicated he may need to consult further before forming a complete opinion on the matter. The clip allegedly discusses the Prime Minister's position and the resignation of a party leader. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-09-12 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Tanzanian Man Arrested for Hiding Illegal Foreign Workers Picture courtesy: Daily News A Tanzanian national has been arrested in Bangkok after falsely claiming influential status and running a factory with illegal foreign workers in secret. The arrest follows a detailed investigation by Immigration Bureau 1. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337946-tanzanian-man-arrested-for-hiding-illegal-foreign-workers/

A Tanzanian national has been arrested in Bangkok after falsely claiming influential status and running a factory with illegal foreign workers in secret. The arrest follows a detailed investigation by Immigration Bureau 1. On 11 September, Pol. Col. Prasat Khemaprasit and his team apprehended 41-year-old Mr. Mohammed, a Tanzanian national, along with Mr. Amar, a 39-year-old Syrian national. Charges against them included employing and working beyond their authorized activities. The arrests were made at a clothing store in the Baiyoke Sky Tower on Ratchaprarop Road. Mr. Mohammed, who posed for photos with foreign leaders to bolster claims of influence, was previously seen attempting to photograph himself with a Tanzanian minister at a Sukhumvit hotel but was stopped by security. Known to be dangerous, Mr. Mohammed allegedly used force and facilitated human trafficking, bringing Tanzanian women into Thailand for sex work and taking a cut of their earnings. Fluent in Thai, he has multiple children and wives. The investigation revealed that Mr. Mohammed operated a clothing store in Pratunam and a factory in Bang Bon. Upon inspection of the factory, authorities found nine Myanmar nationals working there illegally. Two had overstayed their visas, and seven had entered Thailand without proper documentation. None had work permits, and they were being paid 2,100 baht per week in cash, having lived in the building for about four months. Picture courtesy: Daily News Charges have been brought against Mr. Mohammed and Mr. Amar for their unauthorized employment activities. Additionally, Mr. Mohammed faces further charges related to hiring workers without permits. The arrested workers face various charges under the Immigration Act of 1979, including overstaying visas and working without permits. Authorities have taken the suspects to the Tha Kham Police Station for further legal proceedings. TOP Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-09-12 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Norwegian Expat Injured by Automatic Door in Bangkok, Seeks Compensation Family members of Mr. Wiggo, a 71-year-old Norwegian man, with the assistance of Ekapop Luangprasert, advisor to the Minister of Interior and founder of the "Sai Mai Tong Rod" (Sai Mai Must Survive) page, filed a complaint at Prachachuen Police Station on September 11, 2024. A Norwegian man’s family in Thailand filed a complaint after he was seriously injured by an automatic door of a transport company which initially denied responsibility. However, after the latest negotiation, the company agreed to pay. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337924-norwegian-expat-injured-by-automatic-door-in-bangkok-seeks-compensation/

Tourist confronts teen pickpocket in Bangkok’s Sukhumvit Soi 11 - video A foreign tourist confronted a Thai teenager in Sukhumvit Soi 11 in Bangkok after catching him pickpocketing £400 (approximately 17,700 baht). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337912-tourist-confronts-teen-pickpocket-in-bangkok’s-sukhumvit-soi-11-video/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Thailand’s northern regions are reeling from the devastation caused by Typhoon Yagi, which brought relentless rains leading to deadly floods and landslides. As of now, six people have been confirmed dead, including four in Chiang Mai and two in Chiang Rai, while two others remain missing. In Chiang Mai’s Mae Ai district, the overflowing Mae Ai river triggered landslides and flash floods, isolating around 2,000 residents in villages such as Ban Doi Laem, Doi Lang, Pang Ton Duea, and Pang Saen Kluea. Rescue efforts are underway, but the situation remains dire. Emergency teams, including soldiers from the Pha Muang task force and Border Patrol Police, have been mobilised to clear the roads and reach the stranded villagers. Tragically, the body of a four-year-old boy was found today, adding to the earlier discovery of a five-month-old baby girl’s body. Two women have also been confirmed dead, and three residents have been injured. The search continues for the two missing individuals. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has announced that aid is en route to approximately 9,000 affected families in the flooded northern provinces. The health ministry has deployed medical staff, volunteers, and rescue workers to relocate elderly residents to safer areas. The Thai Meteorological Department has issued warnings of more heavy rains expected until next Tuesday, heightening the risk of additional flash floods. “Between Sep. 13 to 17, please be careful of possible danger caused by heavy to very heavy rainfall,” it stated. While Thailand is no stranger to annual monsoon rains, climate change is intensifying weather patterns, making destructive floods more common. Since the start of the current rainy season, 29 people have lost their lives due to weather-related disasters, according to the kingdom’s emergency operation centre, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-09-12 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 12 September 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1337941-thailand-live-thursday-12-september-2024/

Pattaya Launches Safety Campaign for Songthaew Drivers and Tourists Photo: The Pattaya News In response to a tragic accident earlier this year, Pattaya authorities, alongside local transport entities and Isuzu, have launched a dedicated safety campaign to bolster tourist safety on songthaews, commonly known as Baht Buses. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337922-pattaya-launches-safety-campaign-for-songthaew-drivers-and-tourists/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Thailand’s northern regions are reeling from the devastation caused by Typhoon Yagi, which brought relentless rains leading to deadly floods and landslides. As of now, six people have been confirmed dead, including four in Chiang Mai and two in Chiang Rai, while two others remain missing. 6 Dead, 2 Missing As Typhoon Yagi Hits Thailand's North Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337942-6-dead-2-missing-as-typhoon-yagi-hits-thailands-north/

Seven-Month Trial Scheduled for Red Bull Heir's Hit-and-Run Mishandling Case Picture courtesy: Naew Na The trial for the mishandling of the 2012 hit-and-run case involving Red Bull heir Vorayuth “Boss” Yoovidhya has been scheduled to last seven months, as announced by the Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337880-seven-month-trial-scheduled-for-red-bull-heirs-hit-and-run-mishandling-case/

THAILAND - The trial for the mishandling of the 2012 hit-and-run case involving Red Bull heir Vorayuth “Boss” Yoovidhya has been scheduled to last seven months, as announced by the Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases. Eight defendants, including former national police chief Police General Somyot Poompanmoung and former deputy attorney-general Nate Naksuk, have pled not guilty to charges predominantly concerning the distortion of the recorded speed of Vorayuth’s Ferrari, which led to the victim's death. This manipulation reportedly played a crucial role in the dismissal of charges against Vorayuth. During proceedings, the court made clear the trial would run for seven months instead of the typical year-long duration, reflecting heightened public interest. The court committed to fairness for all parties involved and stressed the importance of adhering strictly to the trial schedule to reach a timely resolution. The defendants and their legal representatives have been advised to refrain from engaging with media to avoid influencing public opinion and maintaining trial integrity. Prosecutors have prepared extensive evidence, including 30,000 pages of documents and 21 witnesses. The formal examination of evidence is set to begin on December 3. The group was formally charged on August 29, following a National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) inquiry that found significant mishandling of the hit-and-run case. All defendants have been granted bail, with the stipulation that they must not leave the country without court permission. Vorayuth Yoovidhya was involved in a fatal hit-and-run on September 3, 2012, in Bangkok’s Thong Lor area. Rather than stopping to aid the victim, Police Senior Sergeant Major Wichian Klanprasert, Vorayuth fled, dragging the officer’s body about 200 metres. He later failed to report the incident. After an extensive investigation, Vorayuth faced three charges but fled the country in 2017 before appearing in court. While some charges have expired, the remaining charge of reckless driving causing death, punishable by up to 10 years in prison, remains active until 2027. Picture courtesy: Naew Na -- 2024-09-11 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

PM Paetongtarn faces ethics probe over mini-heart gesture by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra faces a new accusation by serial petitioner Ruangkrai Leekitwattana, who claims she committed a serious offence by making a mini-heart gesture while in her civil service dress uniform. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337879-pm-paetongtarn-faces-ethics-probe-over-mini-heart-gesture/