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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. Ruangkrai, known for seeking the dissolution of the Pheu Thai Party for alleged domination by Paetongtarn’s father Thaksin, has focused his efforts on the ethics section of the Constitution. His recent submission to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) requests an investigation into whether Paetongtarn’s action during a photo session violated sections 17, 21, and 27 (2) of the Constitution. Ruangkrai also questioned if the case should be forwarded to the Supreme Court under Section 235 (1) and if Paetongtarn could face a lifetime political ban under Section 235 (4) for allegedly encouraging other Cabinet ministers to make the gesture while in uniform. The photo session took place at Government House, with most Cabinet members following her lead until an official advised that the gesture was inappropriate for people in uniform. Thai netizens expressed mixed reactions, with few perceiving the gesture as an ethical breach. “Videos of the event are easily accessible to the public on TikTok and elsewhere and could damage public faith in the dignity of the premiership.” Ruangkrai, a former senator and member of the Palang Pracharath Party, has a notable history of targeting politicians. He famously played a role in the court-ordered removal of Samak Sundaravej from the prime ministership in 2008 due to receiving an honorarium from a TV cooking show. Simultaneously, Warong Dechgitvigrom, leader of the royalist Thai Pakdee Party, plans to petition the Election Commission (EC) today to investigate Thaksin’s alleged undue influence over the Pheu Thai Party. Paetongtarn is the youngest daughter of Thaksin and Khunying Potjaman Na Pombejra. She became the Pheu Thai leader and stepped into the role of prime minister after the Constitutional Court removed Srettha Thavisin on August 14 for an ethical violation related to appointing ex-convict Pichit Chuenban, Thaksin’s former lawyer, to the Cabinet, reported Bangkok Post. Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post by Puntid Tantivangphaisal TOP photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-11 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Intoxicated man attacks hospital guard with knife in Chaiyaphum by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A middle-aged man, angry and intoxicated, attacked a security guard at Phu Khiao Chaloem Phra Kiat Hospital in Chaiyaphum, leading to a dramatic confrontation involving a knife. Police quickly apprehended the suspect and charged him with multiple offences. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337877-intoxicated-man-attacks-hospital-guard-with-knife-in-chaiyaphum/

A middle-aged man, angry and intoxicated, attacked a security guard at Phu Khiao Chaloem Phra Kiat Hospital in Chaiyaphum, leading to a dramatic confrontation involving a knife. Police quickly apprehended the suspect and charged him with multiple offences. The incident occurred at the hospital’s exit, where a man in an orange shirt and jeans engaged in a heated argument with the hospital security guard. The confrontation escalated when the man pushed the guard’s left arm, prompting the guard to retaliate by pushing the man’s chest and punching his arm. A scuffle ensued, and the man in the orange shirt, realising he was outmatched, retreated to his red pickup truck parked at the hospital exit. Grabbing a sharp kitchen knife from his vehicle, the man charged back towards the security guard, who quickly fled into the hospital for safety. The assailant, undeterred, pursued him inside. Fortunately, the man’s friend, who had earlier tried to mediate the situation, intervened once again. He managed to pull the attacker back and they both fled in the pickup truck. Later, Wongsakorn Phukhot, a legal officer, accompanied Wiwat Daorueng, the 57 year old security guard involved, to file a report with Police Lieutenant Chaiyaphat Srimongkhun of the Phu Khiao police station. Investigators and patrol officers were dispatched to the scene to gather information and track down the suspect. Witnesses, including locals and hospital staff, provided crucial details that led the police to identify the suspect as 38 year old Chaowarit Naoolo, from Olo Village, Phu Khiao. He was found driving a black Suzuki motorcycle with a sidecar, without a licence plate, and displaying signs of intoxication. Police apprehended him on a public road near a local restaurant. Hospital attack Upon searching him, officers found a 28-centimetre-long knife. A breathalyser test revealed his blood alcohol level was 318 milligrams per cent, well above the legal limit. Chaowarit confessed to the attack, stating that he was drunk and became enraged when the security guard instructed him to move his vehicle, which was blocking the hospital exit. He claimed the guard punched him first, provoking his violent response. Wiwat recounted the events, explaining that he was performing his duties at the hospital exit when the suspect parked his vehicle in a way that obstructed traffic. When Daorueng asked him to move the vehicle, the suspect became aggressive, leading to a physical altercation. After being punched, the suspect retrieved a knife and chased Daorueng, who had to flee into the hospital for safety. Police charged Chaowarit Naoolo with three serious offences: disturbing the peace and threatening a security officer with a weapon, carrying a knife in public without a valid reason, and driving a motorcycle while intoxicated, with a blood alcohol level far exceeding the legal limit. He faces legal proceedings for his actions, reported KhaoSod. Hospital officials emphasised the severity of the incident, noting that such violent acts in a public space like a hospital could have far-reaching emotional and psychological impacts on patients and their families. The event caused significant distress among patients, with some experiencing worsened symptoms due to the shock and fear generated by the altercation. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-11 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Heavy rain forecast in Thailand with potential flooding risks by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Dominik QN, Unsplash The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) forecasted heavy rain for the next 10 days, cautioning that a fairly strong monsoon will hit from September 13 to September 20. The TMD identified areas likely to experience severe rainfall, flooding, and forest water overflow. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337874-heavy-rain-forecast-in-thailand-with-potential-flooding-risks/

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) forecasted heavy rain for the next 10 days, cautioning that a fairly strong monsoon will hit from September 13 to September 20. The TMD identified areas likely to experience severe rainfall, flooding, and forest water overflow. TMD updated its daily accumulated rain forecast, which is recorded every 24 hours from 7am to 7am the next day. The forecast, covering today to September 20, is based on data from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF). The forecast uses a colour-coded system where red indicates heavy rain and green signifies light rain. Low atmospheric pressure previously covering the upper northern region moved towards Myanmar today to tomorrow. However, the monsoon trough has returned to the upper part of Thailand, accompanied by moderately strong southwesterly monsoon winds. Rainfall will continue in the western part of the northern region, near the areas previously affected by low pressure (Tak, Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai). The rain is expected to decrease over the next one or two days, with the sky clearing and some sunshine. Despite the improved weather, the water levels in the northern river basins require continuous monitoring and caution. In the northeastern, central, eastern, and southern regions of Thailand, particularly in monsoon-prone areas such as Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, Chanthaburi, and Trat, rain will remain widespread. Some areas will experience heavy rainfall, which could lead to flash floods and forest water overflow, especially in the northern region. Road users should exercise caution due to slippery roads and increased accident risks. Additionally, the sea will have moderate waves, so sailors and fishermen should navigate carefully. Staying updated with forecasts from TMD is essential. Heavy rain From September 13 to September 20, the rainfall situation across Thailand will intensify, with heavy rain expected in some areas. The monsoon trough, strengthened by the fairly strong southwest monsoon winds, will shift to cover the northeastern, central (including Bangkok and its vicinity), eastern, and southern regions. This weather pattern will result in increased rainfall and potentially heavy to very heavy rain in certain locations, reported KhaoSod. TMD has advised heightened vigilance, particularly for residents in Bangkok and surrounding areas. Along with heavy rain, high sea levels could exacerbate flooding, leading to water stagnation and drainage issues. This information serves as a guideline for tracking weather conditions, but it is imperative to also follow updates from other meteorological data sources, as forecasts may change based on new information. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Dominik QN, Unsplash Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-11 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Transport Co revives Thailand-Laos bus service in early November by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The state-run Transport Co is set to revive the Udon Thani–Nong Khai-Vang Vieng bus service in early November, aiming to enhance connectivity between Thailand and Laos. Vang Vieng, located in the Lao province of Vientiane, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, limestone cliffs, and caves. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337873-transport-co-revives-thailand-laos-bus-service-in-early-november/

The state-run Transport Co is set to revive the Udon Thani–Nong Khai-Vang Vieng bus service in early November, aiming to enhance connectivity between Thailand and Laos. Vang Vieng, located in the Lao province of Vientiane, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, limestone cliffs, and caves. Transport Co’s Acting General Manager Atthawit Rakchamroon confirmed that the decision to restart the bus route followed a meeting of Thai and Lao land transport officials in Vientiane over two days. The service will run from Udon Thani airport, pass through Nong Khai province, and conclude in Vang Vieng township. This resumption will facilitate transfers between Udon Thani Airport and the Sino-Lao high-speed railway. The Udon Thani-Nong Khai-Vang Vieng bus service was initially launched in 2012 but was halted in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. In 2022, Transport Co resumed nine transnational bus routes to Laos. Currently, the company operates 92 bus trips daily, serving approximately 3,000 passengers across these nine routes: Nong Khai-Vientiane, Udon Thani-Vientiane, Nakhon Phanom-Thakhek, Ubon Ratchathani-Pakse, Bangkok-Pakse, Mukdahan-Savannakhet, Bangkok-Vientiane, Loei-Xayaburi-Luang Prabang, and Chiang Rai-Bokeo. “The resumption of the Udon Thani-Nong Khai-Vang Vieng service will significantly boost travel convenience for passengers.” Additionally, Transport Co plans to introduce five more routes to Laos, including Chiang Mai-Boten, Bangkok-Savannakhet, Pattaya-Pakse, Pattaya-Vientiane, and Pattaya-Savannakhet, reported Bangkok Post. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-11 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai YouTuber harassed by fan seeking 150,000 baht by Petch Petpailin Photo by Bew Varaporn via Twitter/ @TifFaNy_9member A famous Thai social media influencer and YouTuber exposed the harassing behaviour of a female fan who demanded 150,000 baht from her to pay off a debt. After the revelation, the fan threatened to sue the influencer for violating personal information laws. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337871-thai-youtuber-harassed-by-fan-seeking-150000-baht/

A famous Thai social media influencer and YouTuber exposed the harassing behaviour of a female fan who demanded 150,000 baht from her to pay off a debt. After the revelation, the fan threatened to sue the influencer for violating personal information laws. The influencer, 30 year old Varaporn “Bew” Piyanantasomdee, took to her social media accounts to reveal that the female fan attempted to enter her home without permission on September 9 to borrow 150,000 baht, despite the two never having met in person. According to Bew, the woman attempted to enter her home to meet her, but Bew’s husband, Tanin Sritawatpongsa, stopped her. The woman then claimed that she had an appointment with Bew and that she was there to attend her child’s gender reveal party. While Bew was indeed hosting the party, she did not invite the woman and did not communicate with her either online or in person. Consequently, Tanin did not allow her to enter, which led the woman to call Bew and accuse her of lacking kindness and humanity. Bew eventually had to call the police to remove the woman from the scene. Bew explained that this woman initially contacted her through a social media account managed by her manager. The woman emphasised that she was a big fan of Bew, watched her videos daily, and then asked for financial help. by Petch Petpailin Photo by Bew Varaporn via Twitter/ @TifFaNy_9member Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-11 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Cracks Down on Illegal Gambling, Targeting Over 4,000 LINE Accounts Picture courtesy: MGR online Thai authorities are intensifying efforts against illegal online gambling by targeting more than 4,000 official LINE accounts linked to such activities. The Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (MDES) announced that users of these accounts could face criminal charges as part of a wider crackdown. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337868-thailand-cracks-down-on-illegal-gambling-targeting-over-4000-line-accounts/

Thai authorities are intensifying efforts against illegal online gambling by targeting more than 4,000 official LINE accounts linked to such activities. The Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (MDES) announced that users of these accounts could face criminal charges as part of a wider crackdown. The ministry has requested LINE, Thailand’s most popular chat app with 54 million users, to shut down the flagged accounts. This move follows an extensive online surveillance operation conducted by the police and LINE Thailand from February 24 to August 9. The crackdown aims to thwart gamblers from using LINE to promote links to illegal online gambling websites. Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong highlighted that the LINE app has become a favoured tool for gambling website operators to target potential customers. "Apart from illegal online gambling, many official LINE accounts have also been exploited by other criminal groups, such as online scammers, to reach their prospective victims," Prasert said. Out of the 4,136 accounts identified, 2,532 contained short videos advertising gambling websites. The remaining accounts served as access points to these illegal sites. Prasert stressed that these official accounts act as key communication channels between gambling organisers and their clients. He also issued a stern warning to the public to avoid involvement in illegal gambling and online scams, emphasising the severe penalties that can result from such activities. Gamblers face up to three years in prison and/or a fine of up to 5,000 baht. In related developments, the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) recently apprehended a major figure in an online gambling network. The suspect had been evading capture for over a year and now faces charges of promoting illegal gambling and money laundering. Additionally, cyber police arrested a 39-year-old man from Khao Chaison suspected of operating an online bullfighting gambling website. The man, who confessed to being the administrator of a Line group, was responsible for setting betting odds and streaming matches for group members. This comprehensive crackdown on illegal online gambling underscores Thailand's commitment to tackling activities that threaten public welfare and the integrity of digital platforms. The authorities' proactive measures aim to safeguard internet users and maintain the credibility of popular communication tools like LINE. Picture courtesy: MGR online -- 2024-09-11 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Aims to Strengthen Soft Power via Gaming Industry File photo courtesy: Techupth The Thai government is pushing forward a new law designed to boost its domestic gaming industry, offering tax incentives to gaming developers. This legislative move fits into the broader vision of the current administration, aiming to enhance Thailand's "soft power" and stimulate economic growth. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337865-thailand-aims-to-strengthen-soft-power-via-gaming-industry/

The Thai government is pushing forward a new law designed to boost its domestic gaming industry, offering tax incentives to gaming developers. This legislative move fits into the broader vision of the current administration, aiming to enhance Thailand's "soft power" and stimulate economic growth. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, has reiterated the importance of "soft power" for Thailand's economy. She believes that the gaming industry can play a pivotal role in this strategy by attracting investment, creating jobs, and fostering creativity within the country. The proposed new law seeks to provide attractive tax breaks and incentives to both local and international gaming developers who set up operations in Thailand. This initiative is part of a larger effort by the government to position Thailand as a hub for the creative industries in Southeast Asia. Paetongtarn's emphasis on soft power isn't isolated. Former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin also underscored the significance of developing digital skills among Thai workers. By cultivating these skills, the country aims to support the growth of various creative sectors, including gaming, film, and digital content creation. The Thai government sees the gaming industry as a promising avenue to drive economic development and cultural influence abroad. By fostering a thriving domestic gaming ecosystem, the administration hopes to not only create economic value but also enhance Thailand's cultural footprint internationally. In addition to tax incentives, the government plans to invest in educational and training programmes to develop the local talent pool. Partnerships with international gaming companies and institutions are also on the table, aimed at sharing knowledge and technology to elevate the industry’s standards. The initiative is received positively within the gaming community in Thailand, with many developers expressing optimism about the potential for growth and international collaboration. However, the success of this initiative will depend on the swift and effective implementation of the proposed law and accompanying support measures. As Thailand gears up to become a regional leader in the gaming industry, the world will be watching closely to see how these policy changes unfold and the impact they have on both the local economy and the broader cultural landscape. File photo courtesy: Techupth -- 2024-09-11 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Wednesday 11 September 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337864-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-wednesday-11-september-2024/

NEWS - 11-September.mp4 Heavy rain from Tropical Storm Yagi caused landslides near Chiang Mai yesterday afternoon , leading to two confirmed deaths, multiple injuries, and at least six missing, including children. A village headman was swept away while warning residents, and the body of a child was found in floodwaters. Power cuts in flooded areas affected a water pumping station, risking water supply to nine villages. Authorities are continuing search efforts this morning using rescue vehicles, boats, and drones. Meanwhile further north Flood victims in Chiang Rai province, have posted requests for help on social media, Some houses are now submerged up to their roofs. Rescue units were unable to reach many areas due to strong currents. Thailand's Deputy Finance Minister has confirmed that the government plans to distribute 145 billion baht in cash through its digital wallet handout program to vulnerable groups and state welfare cardholders, starting on September 20th. He noted that further details of the program will be clarified following the government's policy statement to parliament tomorrow. Construction of a second runway at U-Tapao Airport near pattaya is set to begin this year. The project is currently seeking a loan from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank and has already selected a contractor. The new runway will be 3,500 meters long and positioned 11 hundred meters away from the existing runway, the airport will handle up to 70 flights per hour, including large aircraft. The estimated cost is 15.2 billion baht and construction is expected to take 36 months. Around the region Philippines Former -mayor Alice Guo appeared before a Senate panel less than a week since she was arrested in Indonesia after fleeing the Philippines. Guo largely declined to answer questions from senators throughout a five-hour long inquiry. She is being linked to money laundering involving billions of pesos that went into her bank accounts, and how these were linked to a China-focused online gambling network. Todays Weather Storm yagi is now north west of Chaingmai over Myanmar But still brining torrential rain to parts of the north and west of Thailand Chiang Mai and the north: Thunderstorms 28C degrees celsius Bangkok: Thundershowers 34 Pattaya: Cloudy with thundershowers 32 Phuket and the south: Cloudy with thundershowers 30C Hua Hin: Bright but Cloudy, isolated shower 32C. 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 2024-09-11 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Sets Sights on Becoming Top Destination for Indian Film Productions File photo courtesy: Prachachat The Department of Tourism is gearing up to enter Mumbai's "Bollywood-Hollywood" film market with the goal of attracting more Indian film crews to Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337862-thailand-sets-sights-on-becoming-top-destination-for-indian-film-productions/

File photo courtesy: Prachachat The Department of Tourism is gearing up to enter Mumbai's "Bollywood-Hollywood" film market with the goal of attracting more Indian film crews to Thailand. From September 12-15, 2024, the Foreign Film and Video Affairs Division (TFO Thailand Film Office) will participate in the Thai Film Festival 2024 at the National Museum of Indian Cinema (NMIC) in Mumbai. This initiative aims to showcase Thailand as an ideal filming destination to Indian film professionals. The Thai Film Festival 2024 is organized through a collaboration between the Royal Thai Consulate-General in Mumbai, the Department of Information of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) of India. The festival is designed to promote Thailand's soft power and highlight the country's film industry to Indian government officials, film industry leaders, and the public. Mr. Chaturon Pakdevanich, Director-General of the Department of Tourism, noted that the Indian film market is substantial, with a large audience for films, series, and entertainment. Statistics for 2024 show that from January to August, 35 Indian films were shot in Thailand, with an investment of over 265 million baht, making it the second most popular location for foreign films. Shah Rukh Khan. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia This opportunity allows the Department of Tourism to strengthen its appeal to Indian film crews, reaffirming Thailand's readiness to support their projects with incentives such as a 15-20 percent refund. The Department hopes this will attract more Indian filmmakers, generate revenue, create jobs in the film industry, and enhance Thailand’s cultural influence, while also boosting tourism based on popular film locations. -- 2024-09-11 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Don’t kill the golden goose! Tax reforms may drive away expats File photo Thailand's potential tax policy changes could have a significant impact on expatriates and investors Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337855-don’t-kill-the-golden-goose-tax-reforms-may-drive-away-expats/

File photo courtesy: Triaster Thailand's potential tax policy changes could have a significant impact on expatriates and investors A new proposal from the Thai Revenue Department seeks to tax both Thai and foreign residents on their worldwide income, regardless of whether that income is brought into Thailand. Currently, only income transferred into Thailand is taxed, with the new regulations set to take effect in January 2024. A prominent law firm network with a presence in the USA and Asia has strongly opposed this proposal. They argue that taxing worldwide income would deter investment in Thailand and that the Thai Revenue Department lacks jurisdiction to control assets outside the country. Implementing such a drastic policy change would require a formal amendment to Thai law, which is a complex process. Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira, at the Shaping Tomorrow summit, suggested that personal and corporate income tax rates in Thailand are higher than those in competing countries and might benefit from adjustments, reported Barry Kenyon for Pattaya Mail. However, he did not address the issue of worldwide income taxation for residents. No government spokesperson has yet endorsed or commented on the proposal, leaving the expatriate community uncertain. There is speculation on social media that annual stay extensions might soon require income tax clearance in Thailand. This rumor has not been confirmed by the Cabinet or immigration authorities and could create issues for long-term visa holders who spend less than six months per year in Thailand. Meanwhile, tourists might exploit new visa-exempt rules to stay beyond 180 days in a calendar year, complicating the tax landscape. As the Thai Revenue Department works to enhance national tax income, the strong warnings against this proposal emphasize the need for a thorough discussion. With many expatriates considering leaving and economic challenges looming, a comprehensive debate on the proposed tax changes is crucial. -- 2024-09-11 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Tuk-Tuk Driver Arrested for Stealing from American Tourist Picture via Thai Rath A 66-year-old tuk-tuk driver, Boonlert Jadsanam, was arrested by Chakkrawat Police for stealing from an American tourist in Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337853-tuk-tuk-driver-arrested-for-stealing-from-american-tourist/

A 66-year-old tuk-tuk driver, Boonlert Jadsanam, was arrested by Chakkrawat Police for stealing from an American tourist in Bangkok. On August 30, James Anthony Viafore, the tourist, boarded Boonlert’s tuk-tuk near Phaya Thai BTS station and agreed to a 500-baht fare to Soi Mangkon in the Chakkrawat district. Upon reaching the destination, Viafore handed over a 1,000-baht note. Instead of returning change, Boonlert sped off with the money and the tourist’s luggage, which contained valuable items. The stolen items included a U.S. passport, $500 in cash (approximately 18,000 baht), jewelry, Ray-Ban sunglasses, and other personal belongings, reported Thai Rath. After the incident, police reviewed CCTV footage along the escape route and discovered that the tuk-tuk used fake license plates. The investigation led to Boonlert’s arrest in the Ratchathewi district on September 9. During questioning, Boonlert admitted to targeting tourists in popular areas such as Nana, Pratunam, and Yaowarat, but claimed to have taken only the cash, discarding the other stolen items. However, police are skeptical of this claim and are continuing their investigation to recover the missing belongings. Boonlert is in police custody and will face charges for nighttime robbery and theft using a vehicle. Picture via Thai Rath -- 2024-09-11 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thammanat-Led MPs Unlikely to Face Expulsion from Palang Pracharat File photo courtesy: Prachatai A group of 20 MPs, led by Thammanat Prompao, is unlikely to be expelled from the Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP) despite shifting their support to the rival Pheu Thai Party. Paibul Nititawan, PPRP’s secretary-general, confirmed this on September 10, stating that formal expulsion is not planned. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337851-thammanat-led-mps-unlikely-to-face-expulsion-from-palang-pracharat/

A group of 20 MPs, led by Thammanat Prompao, is unlikely to be expelled from the Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP) despite shifting their support to the rival Pheu Thai Party. Paibul Nititawan, PPRP’s secretary-general, confirmed this on September 10, stating that formal expulsion is not planned. If removed, these MPs would have 60 days to join another party to keep their parliamentary status. Paibul advised against voluntary resignation, as it would result in the immediate loss of their MP status, triggering re-election. The issue arose after Thammanat’s faction backed Paetongtarn Shinawatra for prime minister, leading to their collective resignation from the PPRP executive board. Notably, PPRP leader Prawit Wongsuwan did not attend the session to vote on Paetongtarn's candidacy, which he had contested earlier. Although Thammanat did not secure a cabinet role, his allies gained key ministerial posts. Narumon Pinyosinwat became Thailand’s Trade Representative, while Akhara Prompao and Itthi Sirilatthayakorn were appointed as Agriculture & Cooperatives Minister and Deputy Ministers. This shift has created tensions within the Thai parliament, highlighting fluid alliances and internal challenges in the PPRP during this politically turbulent period. File photo courtesy: Prachatai -- 2024-09-11 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Wednesday 11 September 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1337850-thailand-live-wednesday-11-september-2024/

Nude awakening: Foreigner filmed naked on Phuket hotel balcony Photo via Facebook/ เบส ซาโจ้ A foreign man caught the attention of locals in Phuket after he was seen talking on the phone as naked as the day he was born on a hotel balcony. He continued to stand naked even after realising he was being filmed by a Thai man. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337837-nude-awakening-foreigner-filmed-naked-on-phuket-hotel-balcony-video/