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Pheu Thai Dominates Provincial Elections with Bhumjaithai Trailing Picture courtesy: CH3 News In a significant display of political strength, the ruling Pheu Thai Party has secured the majority of the seats in the recent provincial administrative organisation (PAO) elections in Thailand. The elections, held on Sunday across 47 of the nation's 77 provinces, saw Pheu Thai claiming presidential positions in 18 provinces. Bhumjaithai, a coalition partner, followed closely with 12 seats, marking a notable achievement in the local political landscape. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350601-pheu-thai-dominates-provincial-elections-with-bhumjaithai-trailing/

to continue: Thailand Live Monday 3 February 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1350608-thailand-live-monday-3-february-2025/

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. The controversy underscores the complex balance between domestic employment concerns and the rights of migrant labourers, a matter of particular sensitivity at a time of economic uncertainty and social strain. Led by figures such as Akkhrawut Kraisisombat and Arnon Klinkaew, the group congregated outside the UN offices in Bangkok on Friday. Their message was clear: Thai citizens are facing enough challenges without the added pressures of accommodating increased migrants'. This event follows a plea to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights from the Myanmar workers' group, Bright Future, which has requested improved treatment and wage conditions for its members. Bright Future's letter outlined several concerns, chiefly the disparity in wage standards between migrant workers - where rates supposedly reach between 600 to 700 Thai Baht daily - and local Thai workers, who earn a maximum of about 400 Thai Baht. They argue that their demands align with human rights principles, highlighting their precarious position amidst Thailand's labour market dynamics. Furthermore, the letter also touches on political matters, asking the UN to condemn the forthcoming general elections in Myanmar. with Myanmar's state of emergency extended recently due to ongoing civil unrest, the campaigning climate is fragile and fraught with political complexity. However, Akkhrawut maintains that the Thai nation is bearing the brunt of an influx of undocumented workers and associated issues like rising crime. He argues, rather sterbly, that foreign workers should direct their activism towards their home country's issues instead of seeking external intervention. The scene at the UN offices remained peaceful, with no direct confrontation between the protesting Thais and representatives from Bright Future. Yet, the event symbolised a significant sentiment within segments of the Thai community who feel overwhelmed by an allegedly unchecked immigration scenario, with socioeconomic impacts potentially displaced onto local workers. As these concerns continue to unfold, the situation serves as a reminder of the wider global challenge of migrant labour rights, reported Bangkok Post. As the dialogue surrounding these issues progresses, the international community, local policy-makers, and stakeholders are being compelled to seek a balanced and fair resolution that respects both the rights of workers and the socio-economic stability of host nations. -- 2025-02-03

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. At the forefront of this call to action is Chalermpol Chamchan, the director of Mahidol University's Institute for Population and Social Research, who warns that without intervention, this trend could significantly shrink Thailand's workforce. Amidst a backdrop of sobering statistics, Thailand's population was recorded at 65,951,210 as of December last year, according to the Bureau of Registration Administration. Yet, the country saw only 462,240 births in 2023—a stark drop below the half-million mark for the first time since 1949, marking four consecutive years where deaths outnumbered births. This is a sharp contrast to the period between 1963 and 1983, when the country experienced over one million births annually. The Thai government's "Give Birth, Great World" campaign, initiated in 2023 by the Ministry of Public Health, was designed to counter this decline by encouraging young couples to start families. Unfortunately, the campaign hasn't yet turned the tide, and Chalermpol urges the government to reassess and enhance these initiatives to make a genuine impact. Thailand's situation is unique in Southeast Asia, being the only nation in the region experiencing such a birth rate decline, a trend more commonly associated with high-income, developed countries. The total fertility rate (TFR) fell to 1.0 last year, even lower than Japan's 1.2, placing Thailand among nations with ultra-low fertility rates, alongside South Korea and Singapore. Looking ahead, the implications of these statistics are daunting. Thailand's population could dwindle to just 40 million within the next 50 years, equating to a loss of about one million people every two years. This demographic shift could drastically impact the country's labour force, potentially reducing it to 22.8 million workers in five decades if the current trajectory remains unchanged. A survey by the Institute for Population and Social Research highlights the gravity of the situation, with about 71% of respondents aged 28 and older recognising the declining birth rate as a critical issue, reported Bangkok Post. However, just 35.8% of these individuals intend to have children, while 30% remain undecided. Chalermpol suggests that with appropriate support mechanisms, those on the fence might be swayed towards parenthood, offering a glimmer of hope for reversing the trend. -- 2025-02-03

Photo courtesy: Siam Rath RTARF Welcomes First Female Pilot In a landmark moment for gender equality within Thailand's military, Nanticha Suphachai has made history by becoming the first female civilian pilot to be recruited by the Royal Thai Survey Department. The 29-year-old steps into this pioneering role as part of the department's latest intake, signifying a progressive shift in the Royal Thai Armed Forces' inclusion practices. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350605-rtarf-welcomes-first-female-pilot/

RTARF Welcomes First Female Pilot Photo courtesy: Siam Rath In a landmark moment for gender equality within Thailand's military, Nanticha Suphachai has made history by becoming the first female civilian pilot to be recruited by the Royal Thai Survey Department. The 29-year-old steps into this pioneering role as part of the department's latest intake, signifying a progressive shift in the Royal Thai Armed Forces' inclusion practices. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350605-rtarf-welcomes-first-female-pilot/

Photo courtesy: Siam Rath In a landmark moment for gender equality within Thailand's military, Nanticha Suphachai has made history by becoming the first female civilian pilot to be recruited by the Royal Thai Survey Department. The 29-year-old steps into this pioneering role as part of the department's latest intake, signifying a progressive shift in the Royal Thai Armed Forces' inclusion practices. Alongside Nanticha is 2nd Lt Yosanant Amasuwan, aged 26, marking his entry into the exclusive ranks of the department. Both new recruits will be instrumental in conducting aerial ordinance surveys, a vital function that supports military and strategic operations across Thailand. Picture: courtesy: Siam Rath In preparation for their official duties, Nanticha and Yosanant will engage in a rigorous three-month training period. This will encompass both advanced flight training and survival skills necessary for navigation and endurance in challenging environments such as jungles. These comprehensive programs are designed to ensure they are fully equipped for the demands of their roles. Nanticha's journey to this groundbreaking achievement is backed by a solid educational foundation. She holds a degree in architecture from Assumption University, a background that complements her technical acumen. Additionally, she has honed her aviation skills through a civilian pilot training course at the esteemed Bangkok Air Aviation Academy located in Sukhothai province. Her diverse educational and training experiences have prepared her well for the multifaceted responsibilities she will undertake in her new position. As Nanticha and her colleague begin their training, their progress will be closely watched as they pave the way for future female aviators in the Thai military. Their success could inspire more women to pursue careers in military aviation, contributing to a more inclusive future for Thailand's defence forces, reported Thai PBS. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2025-02-01

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/

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. The poll, aimed at gauging public perception, highlighted that a hefty 76.49% of respondents rated the government’s handling of the PM2.5 pollution as less than efficient. Specifically, 41.15% found the efforts to be somewhat inefficient, while 35.34% considered them completely inefficient. Only 3.13% of those surveyed felt the interventions were very efficient, indicating widespread public discontent. Despite the government's initiative of offering free public transport for a week in a bid to mitigate pollution levels, the measure appears to have fallen flat with the populace. A substantial 68.78% of participants opined that this initiative had little to no impact on reducing PM2.5 levels, with only 6.72% acknowledging a significant benefit. The response from City Hall, which included closing educational institutions and promoting remote work among private and public sector employees, received mixed reactions. While some 34.89% believed these moves were somewhat helpful, a closer look revealed scepticism: 33.21% thought they did very little, and 24.50% said they were ineffective. When queried about which government entity should take the lead in battling Bangkok's ultrafine dust woes, the Pollution Control Department was favoured by 41.15% of respondents. Other bodies, like the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration and the Department of Royal Rainmaking and Agricultural Aviation, also featured prominently in public expectations. Interestingly, 17.56% of those surveyed expressed a lack of faith in any government agency to effectively combat the pollution problem, reflecting a growing frustration that underscores the urgent need for more impactful solutions. The comprehensive survey, carried out via telephone interviews with 1,310 individuals aged 18 and above, encapsulates a broad spectrum of Bangkok’s demographic fabric, spanning diverse educational, income, and occupational backgrounds. This growing public perception serves as a clarion call for the Thai government and related bodies to reassess their strategies and enhance their response to one of the city’s most pressing environmental challenges. With the economic impact tied to the health implications of pollution, the urgency for effective measures becomes increasingly critical as residents seek relief from the choking haze, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-01

Pheu Thai Dominates Provincial Elections with Bhumjaithai Trailing Picture courtesy: CH3 News In a significant display of political strength, the ruling Pheu Thai Party has secured the majority of the seats in the recent provincial administrative organisation (PAO) elections in Thailand. The elections, held on Sunday across 47 of the nation's 77 provinces, saw Pheu Thai claiming presidential positions in 18 provinces. Bhumjaithai, a coalition partner, followed closely with 12 seats, marking a notable achievement in the local political landscape. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350601-pheu-thai-dominates-provincial-elections-with-bhumjaithai-trailing/

Picture courtesy: CH3 News In a significant display of political strength, the ruling Pheu Thai Party has secured the majority of the seats in the recent provincial administrative organisation (PAO) elections in Thailand. The elections, held on Sunday across 47 of the nation's 77 provinces, saw Pheu Thai claiming presidential positions in 18 provinces. Bhumjaithai, a coalition partner, followed closely with 12 seats, marking a notable achievement in the local political landscape. The PAO elections are crucial in Thailand, shaping the governance of provinces beyond the central oversight. They provide a measure of the current political climate and public opinion towards ruling and opposition parties. These elections have reaffirmed the influence of Pheu Thai, led by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, reinforcing its leading position within the political sphere. Bhumjaithai's performance, securing the second-highest number of seats, further solidifies its role as a key player in Thai politics. Independent candidates emerged as a distinct force, capturing six PAO presidential seats. This suggests a growing trend towards independent local governance or dissatisfaction with traditional party politics among some voters. Despite being a potent force historically, the main opposition, known as the People’s Party, only managed to win a single seat, in Lamphun. This outcome has surprised many, highlighting potential challenges for the party and perhaps signalling a need for strategic reconsideration in forthcoming contests. The Democrat Party, another well-established entity, garnered four seats, maintaining its regional influence, particularly in the south. Chartthaipattana and Prachachat each secured two seats, while Palang Pracharath and United Thai Nation picked up one seat apiece. Interestingly, political dynamics were underscored by the involvement of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who actively campaigned for Pheu Thai candidates alongside his daughter, Prime Minister Paetongtarn. Thaksin's influence, especially evident in the northern provinces like Chiang Mai, where Pheu Thai won narrowly, continues to resonate in Thai political circles. However, in Chiang Rai, another northern stronghold, Pheu Thai fell short despite Thaksin's efforts. These elections reflect the strategic importance of provincial seats in the broader constellation of Thai politics, where local issues blend with national narratives. With the conversion of public sentiment into political power, Pheu Thai's performance signals a robust base of support as it navigates an evolving political environment. As the dust settles on this round of elections, the results underscore both the shifting allegiances within Thailand's electorate and the enduring influence of established players. With 32 Thai Baht to 1 US Dollar today, the financial dynamics continue to play a pivotal role in how political decisions impact local economies, making PAO elections pivotal in directing provincial development and growth, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-02

Kasikornbank: Verify SIM card name by April 30 by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Kasikornbank has announced that mobile banking customers need to ensure their registered name matches their mobile SIM card name by April 30. The bank outlined two conditions for this requirement. Customers who have not been contacted need not take any action. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350552-kasikornbank-verify-sim-card-name-by-april-30/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Kasikornbank has announced that mobile banking customers need to ensure their registered name matches their mobile SIM card name by April 30. The bank outlined two conditions for this requirement. Customers who have not been contacted need not take any action. Kasikornbank communicated through its Facebook page, KBank Live, regarding a measure to enhance mobile banking security. This initiative requires the user name to match the mobile SIM card holder’s name. Customers utilising K PLUS, LINE BK, or MAKE by KBank and meeting the criteria will receive instructions through these platforms starting from February 17. The customer group required to act by April 30 comprises those who began using mobile banking services from 2022 onward and fall into one of two categories. The first category includes users of K PLUS, LINE BK, or MAKE by KBank who have a mobile number without a verifiable SIM card holder’s name. The second involves foreign customers whose mobile phone number’s SIM card name does not match the user name on K PLUS, LINE BK, or MAKE by KBank. Customers fitting these descriptions will receive guidance via K PLUS, LINE BK, or MAKE by KBank from February 17 onward. Those who do not receive any notification are not required to take any action. This directive aims to ensure greater security and compliance for all mobile banking users, reported KhaoSod. Photo courtesy of MoneyandBanking In similar news, Thai telecom heavyweight True Corporation has firmly denied allegations of supplying SIM cards in bulk to call centre gangs, following a dramatic police raid in Bangkok. The raid, carried out on December 20, targeted a condo on Rama IX Road in Huay Kwang, uncovering a staggering cache of criminal tech: 286 SIM boxes, over 300,000 SIM cards, 636 smartphones, and 100 computers. Six Chinese nationals were arrested in connection with the illicit operation. SIM card fraud in Thailand involves criminals using fake identities or stolen data to register SIM cards for scams, financial fraud, and identity theft. Common schemes include phishing, OTP interception, and unauthorised transactions. Police have cracked down on illegal SIM card sales and strengthened registration regulations to curb fraud. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-02-01

British dad mysteriously vanishes in Bangkok by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Katie Maybin/SWNS via Daily Mail A British dad has vanished in Thailand after failing to board his flight home—sparking fears from his distraught family. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350490-british-dad-mysteriously-vanishes-in-bangkok/

Photo courtesy of Katie Maybin/SWNS via Daily Mail by Puntid Tantivangphaisal A British dad has vanished in Thailand after failing to board his flight home—sparking fears from his distraught family. The 33 year old Brit, James Sangwine, from Epping, Essex, jetted off to Bangkok on January 18 to visit a friend but hasn’t been heard from since he left for a night out on January 20. His partner, 38 year old Katie Maybin says he missed his son’s seventh birthday the next day—an unusual and worrying sign. “He always calls, especially for our boy’s birthday but this time, nothing.” Sangwine was last seen heading to the Abandoned Mansion Bar & Restaurant in Bangkok. A local couple who met him there texted Maybin, saying he had been out with friends that night. His phone has been off for over 10 days, and he has not reached out to any relatives. Photo courtesy of Katie Maybin/SWNS via Daily Mail Sangwine was due to fly home on January 24—but never boarded. Katie reported him missing to the Royal Thai Police but claims she has received no updates. “We haven’t been told anything. We just need to know what’s happened—whether he’s alive or not.” The British man’s disappearance comes just weeks after another British tourist, 28 year old Regan Kelly, was found dead off the coast of Phuket. CCTV footage from his hostel showed him in a heated exchange with an unknown man before he was seen running towards the beach. The next morning, his body was discovered floating in the sea, reported Daily Mail UK. Maybin is pleading for answers: “Someone must know where James is. We just need to bring him home.” The British Embassy in Bangkok has been approached for comment. Photo courtesy of Katie Maybin/SWNS via Daily Mail In another missing Brit case, 27 year old Simon Robinson had disappeared from Bangkok when he didn’t board his flight home but was found later to have got on another flight to Finland instead. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-02-01

Thaksin Pushes for Single-Party Rule, Faces Coalition Criticism Anutin Charnvirakul. File photo courtesy: Thai Rath In a recent development raising eyebrows across the Thai political spectrum, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra called on voters to back the Pheu Thai Party exclusively. Thaksin argues that a single-party majority could fast-track government initiatives, suggesting that the current coalition governing structure is cumbersome and inefficient. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350488-thaksin-pushes-for-single-party-rule-faces-coalition-criticism/

Anutin Charnvirakul. File photo courtesy: Thai Rath In a recent development raising eyebrows across the Thai political spectrum, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra called on voters to back the Pheu Thai Party exclusively. Thaksin argues that a single-party majority could fast-track government initiatives, suggesting that the current coalition governing structure is cumbersome and inefficient. Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of the Bhumjaithai Party and a crucial member of the coalition, responded critically to Thaksin's remarks. Serving as the interim Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister, Anutin pointed out that Thaksin, after spending 17 years living abroad, might not fully appreciate the complexities of Thailand's present-day multi-party system. According to Anutin, the days of singular command reminiscent of Thaksin's era have given way to a political landscape where coalition parties, including his own, strive to swiftly implement policies whilst adhering to democratic principles. Anutin emphasised that while a one-party government is feasible if a single party excels, the reality is that coalition dynamics require dialogue and negotiations among various stakeholders. He acknowledged, "Who would have thought about a single-party government before Thaksin became the prime minister? Thaksin showed it could be done. But the question is how long would it last if it happened again?" This reflects on Thaksin's previous tenure when his party held significant sway. Thaksin made his assertive claims during a campaign stop in Chiang Mai, as part of his role in assisting Pheu Thai candidates in the upcoming Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO) elections. He believes a decisive victory for Pheu Thai would efficiently deliver on its promises, eliminating what he perceives as delays inherent in a multi-party government. This theme is one Thaksin has been reiterating across the country as he actively campaigns for his party. Despite Thaksin's criticisms, Anutin maintained that the current government functions satisfactorily, albeit at a slower pace to ensure compliance with legal standards and public scrutiny. He observed that the coalition partners are committed to mutual support, whether in correcting potential missteps or advocating for the national interest. As the political debate heats up ahead of the elections, the discourse around single-party dominance versus coalition governance highlights the broader question of how effectively Thailand can balance democratic processes with efficient administrative execution. The upcoming elections may indeed serve as a litmus test for the Thai people's appetite for either path, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-01

Phuket Considered for New Cryptocurrency Hub to Boost Tourism Reference picture courtesy: FreePik Phuket may soon transform into a cryptocurrency haven as Thailand explores new ways to boost its tourism economy. Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has proposed the island as the ideal location for a 'crypto sandbox', allowing visitors to freely utilise digital currencies like Bitcoin during their stay. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350485-phuket-considered-for-new-cryptocurrency-hub-to-boost-tourism/

Reference picture courtesy: FreePik Phuket may soon transform into a cryptocurrency haven as Thailand explores new ways to boost its tourism economy. Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has proposed the island as the ideal location for a 'crypto sandbox', allowing visitors to freely utilise digital currencies like Bitcoin during their stay. While other nations are still engaging in preliminary talks about embracing cryptocurrency, Thailand is poised to take decisive action. Thaksin believes the country is better prepared than its Southeast Asian peers to harness the financial potential of digital assets. This is especially relevant following the cryptocurrency-friendly policies announced by the US under President Trump, which have been drawing global attention towards digital currencies. A cryptocurrency sandbox is an experimental initiative permitting cryptocurrencies to function as viable alternatives to traditional money. This could streamline transactions for large purchases, such as real estate, which are commonplace among tourists in locations like Phuket. By reducing the need to handle physical cash, this initiative potentially harnesses the substantial funds tourists bring but previously spent outside formal channels. The head of Gulf Binance, Nirun Fuwattananukul, argues that a crypto-friendly environment in Phuket could elevate Thailand as a magnet for tourists, digital nomads, and innovative startups. This move aligns with Thailand's strategy to position itself as a forward-thinking nation. However, there are hurdles to this ambition. Currently, the Bank of Thailand doesn't permit cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin as valid payment methods, even as the nation's Securities and Exchange Commission oversees crypto exchanges. Developing a regulatory framework to manage these transactions safely is crucial for success. Implementing a crypto sandbox in Phuket will require new laws and financial regulations. Udomsak Rakwongwan from FWX notes merchants' reluctance to accept digital currencies due to accounting difficulties and price instability. Meanwhile, authorities will need to balance innovation with risk management to maintain Thailand's economic stability. Encouragingly, the idea dovetails with Thailand's efforts to embrace cutting-edge payment technologies. The central bank has already initiated projects such as using stablecoins linked to the baht for payments, underscoring the nation's commitment to digital financial solutions. With this proposed sandbox, Thailand aims to tweak traditional economic models and pave the way for groundbreaking digital transactions. By embracing and regulating these financial innovations, the country could potentially emerge as a leader in digital asset management in the region. Should these initiatives in Phuket prove successful, they could serve as blueprints for further projects across the nation, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-01

Freed Thai Hostages in Israel Are in Stable Condition Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Five Thai nationals released from Hamas captivity were found to be largely in normal health, according to an Israeli hospital director. While they appear physically stable, they exhibited vitamin D deficiencies due to a diet high in carbohydrates but low in protein and vegetables, along with insufficient sunlight exposure. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350479-freed-thai-hostages-in-israel-are-in-stable-condition/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Five Thai nationals released from Hamas captivity were found to be largely in normal health, according to an Israeli hospital director. While they appear physically stable, they exhibited vitamin D deficiencies due to a diet high in carbohydrates but low in protein and vegetables, along with insufficient sunlight exposure. On 31st January 2025, Dr. Osnat Levsion Korach, General Director of Shamir Medical Centre in Be’er Ya’akov, Israel, stated that the Thai workers are currently undergoing medical evaluations. The lack of balanced nutrition, particularly vitamin D, was noted as a concern. Despite not being held underground, the hostages were kept in dimly lit conditions that restricted sunlight exposure.As reported by Thai Wrath The release occurred last Thursday. The individuals were handed over to the International Committee of the Red Cross. The release is not part of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal agreed on 19 January. (as reported by BBC) -- 2025-02-24

Uzbek man nabbed at Phuket Airport for overstaying visa By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Phuket Airport Immigration via The Phuket News A 21 year old Uzbek national found himself in hot water after being arrested at Phuket International Airport for overstaying his visa by six days. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350430-uzbek-man-nabbed-at-phuket-airport-for-overstaying-visa/

Drunken tourists attack Bolt driver in Pattaya over ‘silent treatment’ By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail A ride-hailing driver in Pattaya was left bruised and battered after a group of drunken tourists attacked him for refusing to engage in conversation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350435-drunken-tourists-attack-bolt-driver-in-pattaya-over-‘silent-treatment’/

Thaksin Granted Court Permission to Visit Malaysia File photo courtesy Spring News In a notable court decision today, January 31, former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra received approval to travel to Malaysia this coming weekend, despite being embroiled in a lese majeste case. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350441-thaksin-granted-court-permission-to-visit-malaysia/

to continue: Thailand Live Saturday 1 February 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1350447-thailand-live-saturday-1-february-2025/