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The expected release of convicted former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra next week is set to inject more heat into the simmering powerplay between conservative elites and the ex-PM, analysts say. The ex-premier is expected to be freed on bail even if he is hit with a fresh charge of lese majeste under Article 112 of the Criminal Code. The Office of the Attorney-General is considering whether to indict Thaksin for allegedly defaming the monarchy with comments he made in South Korea in November 2009. However, this new case is unlikely to prevent Thaksin’s release on parole when his 180-day detention is up on February 18, even though he has spent all but a few hours of that period in the Police General Hospital, according to political observers. His daughter Paetongtarn has reportedly said Thaksin will stay at his family mansion of Ban Chan Songla in Bangkok after being set free on parole. The 74-year-old will not be required to wear an electronic monitoring ankle bracelet given his advanced age (over 70) and severe health conditions, reports said. Flashpoint for Thai politics? Olarn Thinbangtieo, a lecturer at Burapha University’s Faculty of Political Science and Law, says that freeing Thaksin on bail at a time when many young activists charged with lese majeste are being denied temporary release is likely to trigger allegations of judicial bias. And this could add more heat to the already simmering political dispute, he warned. “This case could harm the justice system’s reputation. If Thaksin is granted bail, people will ask why the young suspects have not been released too. We will see political chaos again,” the analyst predicted. By Thai PBS World’s Political Desk Full story: Thai PBS 2024-02-14 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thunderstorm alert for Thai provinces with rising temps and rough seas by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of iStock The Thai Meteorological Department has issued a weather warning for thunderstorms across ten provinces, signalling a rise in temperatures for the upper parts of the country. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1319871-thunderstorm-alert-for-thai-provinces-with-rising-temps-and-rough-seas/

The Thai Meteorological Department has issued a weather warning for thunderstorms across ten provinces, signalling a rise in temperatures for the upper parts of the country. Despite the warmer climate, mornings will continue to be shrouded in fog, retaining the chill, particularly in the northeastern regions. This forecast, released at 5am today (February 14), also highlights an ongoing concern with high levels of dust and smoke particulates. This changing weather pattern is attributed to a weakening high-pressure system over upper Thailand. The northeast monsoon, still robust over the lower Gulf of Thailand and the South, is causing strong waves in the Gulf and the Andaman Sea. The lower Gulf is experiencing waves reaching 2-3 metres in height, escalating to over 3 metres during thunderstorms. Similarly, the upper Gulf faces waves of about 2 metres, increasing further during storm conditions. The Andaman Sea, meanwhile, sees wave heights of 1-2 metres, with areas affected by thunderstorms experiencing swells above 2 metres, reported KhaoSod. Residents along the southern eastern coast are advised to be cautious of the strong winds and waves impacting the shorelines, while mariners in the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea are urged to navigate with extreme care and avoid areas with thunderstorms. Small boats in the lower Gulf have been recommended to refrain from setting sail for an additional day due to the adverse conditions. In terms of air quality, the country is grappling with moderate to high accumulations of dust and smoke due to weakening winds. by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of iStock Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-14 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Deputy PM Anutin Fosters Unity Through Shared Meals Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul underscored the significance of shared meals among political allies to bolster unity and uphold Thai identity. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1319864-deputy-pm-anutin-fosters-unity-through-shared-meals/

Thailand braces for record-breaking summer heat in five provinces by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of iStock Thailand’s Meteorological Department has issued a stark warning that this year’s summer season could bring even more intense heat than the previous year to five provinces, already topping the charts as the hottest in the country. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1319870-thailand-braces-for-record-breaking-summer-heat-in-five-provinces/

Thailand’s Meteorological Department has issued a stark warning that this year’s summer season could bring even more intense heat than the previous year to five provinces, already topping the charts as the hottest in the country. The forecast, released on February 13, suggests a sweltering summer ahead with temperatures that could soar to a scorching 44.5 degrees Celsius. The five provinces identified as the hottest spots include Mae Hong Son, Uttaradit, Sukhothai, Tak, and Udon Thani. These regions are bracing for extreme heat with maximum temperatures starting from 44 degrees Celsius. Experts are concerned that the searing temperatures this year could surpass those recorded last year, adding to the woes of those living in the affected areas. Not only is the heat a cause for concern, but the weather outlook also indicates a drier season ahead, with expected rainfall averaging below the usual levels for the period between March and May. The Meteorological Department’s twelfth announcement cautions residents to stay alert for potential summer storms that could bring thunderstorms, strong winds, and even hail. by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of iStock Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-14 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe The summer season in the upper part of Thailand, which is anticipated to begin in the last week of February and last until the end of May, will likely start one to two weeks later than usual. During this period, the country will generally experience sweltering heat, with the highest temperatures reaching between 43.0 and 44.5 degrees Celsius, mostly from mid-March to early May. However, sporadic thunderstorms could offer some respite from the heat, reported KhaoSod.

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Wednesday 14 February 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1319869-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-wednesday-14-february-2024/

Thailand's foreign minister met US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken yesterday. The U.S has shown support for Thailand setting up a humanitarian corridor along the border with Myanmar, and acknowledged the kingdom's strategic importance in the region. He added… he was sure there will be further discussion about more collaboration on dealing with the Myanmar crisis Two monarchy-reform activists known as “Tawan” and “Frank” were arrested on charges of sedition and allegedly attempting to interrupt a royal motorcade on Feb 4th. Both denied the charges and were taken in for questioning. Both are likely to appear in court on Friday. Thailand's minister for transport threatened to terminate a contract with Thai international unless it improves it’s ground services at Bangkok's suvanabum airport. His department had received complaints from other airlines and business. The problem were due to inadequate equipment and a lack of qualified staff due to a high turnover rate. Thai Airways has 12 years remaining on its contract which can be terminated if services are substandard. Around the region Voting is under way in Indonesia, with more than 200 million people expected to cast their ballots for the country’s next president and vice-president, In what has been called the world’s biggest single-day elections, Early indications of how the race is shaping up will be should be available this afternoon however final official results may take several weeks. Malaysia: A light aircraft crashed near a town in Selan-gor state yesterday killing the pilot and a passenger on board. Police say "The pilot was an instructor at a local flying club, the passenger was also a member. WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: Sunny partly cloudy 33 Bangkok: Sunny 35C Pattaya: Sunny 34C Phuket and the south: Sunny partly cloudy 33C Hua Hin: Sunny 32C AQI RED, HIGH Unhealthy Temperatures are likely to rise in the next few day Green clear, yellow light, Orange High, Red unhealthy. Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, Royal Coast Review, Kulsawek Sawekwannakorn, Thainewsroom.com, The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Windy.com. Wunderground.com -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-02-14 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Most Thais plan online Valentine’s Day shopping, reveals Visa survey by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Varuth Hirunyatheb Almost four out of five people in Thailand are planning to buy Valentine’s Day gifts online, a recent survey by YouGov for payments company Visa reveals. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1319868-most-thais-plan-online-valentine’s-day-shopping-reveals-visa-survey/

Almost four out of five people in Thailand are planning to buy Valentine’s Day gifts online, a recent survey by YouGov for payments company Visa reveals. The study aimed to assess Thai consumers’ spending habits in the run-up to the romantic holiday, along with the factors influencing their decisions, and the most effective ways to win their partners’ hearts. The survey presented an interesting challenge: understanding what your partner truly wants. The majority (59%) of participants admitted to telling their partners directly what they desire. Interestingly, 27% of respondents utilise artificial intelligence to express their wishes, often through their partner’s smartphone. Another 22% prefer a subtler approach, dropping hints in the hope their partners will take the hint, reported Bangkok Post. A significant 57% of the respondents plan to purchase their Valentine’s Day gifts from online retailers and e-commerce platforms. Meanwhile, 20% are opting for social commerce shops on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and Line. by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Varuth Hirunyatheb Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-14 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai police boost security for Valentine’s Day to protect minors by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of iStock Valentine’s Day in Thailand will see heightened security measures at motels and nightlife venues, as announced by the Royal Thai Police (RTP). This action comes as a bid to protect minors from potential risks. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1319867-thai-police-boost-security-for-valentine’s-day-to-protect-minors/

Valentine’s Day in Thailand will see heightened security measures at motels and nightlife venues, as announced by the Royal Thai Police (RTP). This action comes as a bid to protect minors from potential risks. Deputy spokeswoman for the RTP, Police Colonel Chanchai Rattanapanich, shared on Tuesday that national police chief Police General Torsak Sukvimol has prioritised the safety of the youth on Valentine’s Day. In response to his concern, all RTP agencies are now tasked with increased vigilance to detect and prevent crimes against children, primarily sexual offences and disputes, with a particular focus on high-risk areas. Increased screening at road checkpoints near venues such as pubs, motels, and internet cafes has been implemented. The aim is to scrutinize motorists and teenagers to reduce the likelihood of violence, apprehend individuals carrying illegal items, and discourage unlawful street racing. Entertainment venues will be subject to stringent regulations to prevent violations such as extended opening hours, admitting underage customers, obscene performances, and illegal drug use. In addition, motels nationwide have been strongly encouraged to deny accommodation to minors. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of iStock Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-14 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul underscored the significance of shared meals among political allies to bolster unity and uphold Thai identity. Anutin, also the Minister of the Interior, highlighted the importance of communal dining during a gathering of coalition leaders and members today (Feb 13) at a hotel in Bangkok, reported INN. The event follows a recent joint dinner among coalition leaders at a local restaurant, prompting discussions on expanding such gatherings to strengthen relationships within the government coalition. Pheu Thai Party leader Phatthana Chinnaworn, as the head of the coalition government, was the first to extend invitations for such meetings. Today's assembly provided an avenue for open dialogue and clarification of any doubts or misunderstandings among members. Anutin emphasized the paramountcy of solidarity in facing challenges, stressing that nothing is more beneficial for Thailand than unity. He also humorously mentioned the necessity of financial contribution from all parties, as hosting consecutive meals solely would be burdensome. Shared meals will persist as a proud tradition for the Thai coalition, fostering camaraderie and mutual understanding among its members. -- ASEAN NOW 2024-02-14 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get your business in front of millions of customers who read ASEAN NOW with an interest in Thailand every month - email [email protected] for more information Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pickup Truck Splits in Half Due to Overload Viral images reveal a pickup truck carrying excessive load splitting in half at an intersection. The incident of overloading causing stir online. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1319863-pickup-truck-splits-in-half-due-to-overload/

Viral images reveal a pickup truck carrying excessive load splitting in half at an intersection. The incident of overloading causing stir online. Yet another viral sensation spreading across the online world right now. Following a post by the Facebook page "Mee Dan Ubon Ratchathani," stating, "Carrying too much corn, at the Big Chiwarin Intersection," accompanied by an image of a pickup truck overloaded beyond its limits, resulting in the vehicle splitting in half, reported Daily News. Upon investigation, it was found that the incident occurred on February 12th, as the pickup truck, loaded with crates of fruits, was unable to bear the weight, causing it to split in half at the intersection of Nong Ta Phoan, Warin Chamrap District, Ubon Ratchathani Province. Nevertheless, after the circulation of these images, netizens poured in with various comments such as: Whether to pity or to find it amusing. That load is enough to flip an eighteen-wheeler. Fighting hard for life but life fights back. I think it's about time for a well-deserved break. Been working hard for over 20 years. Found it at the red light just right. Good that no one got hurt, everything's safe. But it's quite pitiful... Thanks to the images and information from @MeeDan Ubon Ratchathani." -- ASEAN NOW 2024-02-14 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get your business in front of millions of customers who read ASEAN NOW with an interest in Thailand every month - email [email protected] for more information Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Flight disrupted by vibrating luggage reveals sex toy (video) by Samantha Rose Photo courtesy of Sanook An embarrassing incident took place on a flight when a model faced the awkward, embarrassing situation of being asked to disembark due to her continuously vibrating luggage which turned out to come from a sex toy. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1319861-flight-disrupted-by-vibrating-luggage-reveals-sex-toy-video/

An embarrassing incident took place on a flight when a model faced the awkward, embarrassing situation of being asked to disembark due to her continuously vibrating luggage which turned out to come from a sex toy. The incident, which has since become a viral sensation with over 12 million views, was documented in a video posted by the model, Amanda Diaz Rogers herself on TikTok. “That moment when the entire plane is eager to find out why your luggage is vibrating.” In the video, shot by a friend, Rogers can be seen covering her face in embarrassment as she reaches into her bag to stop the sex toy from buzzing. It was an undoubtedly mortifying moment for her, especially with security personnel watching. Fortunately, the security staff and cabin crew saw the funny side of the situation, even sharing a laugh along with other passengers about the vibrating luggage mishap. by Samantha Rose Photo courtesy of Sanook Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-14 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

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Customers dine and dash, leaving Chon Buri restaurateur in a stew (video) by Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 7 A restaurant owner in Chon Buri province is seeking justice after 20 customers refused to pay a 15,000 baht bill for food and drink. The customers claimed the cuisine was poor despite enjoying the abode’s ambience for over four hours. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1319858-customers-dine-and-dash-leaving-chon-buri-restaurateur-in-a-stew-video/

A restaurant owner in Chon Buri province is seeking justice after 20 customers refused to pay a 15,000 baht bill for food and drink. The customers claimed the cuisine was poor despite enjoying the abode’s ambience for over four hours. The restaurant owner, Ancharika, filed a complaint at Bang Lamung Police Station yesterday, February 12. She accused a go-go bar manager in Soi Bua Khao in Pattaya and her team members of refusing to pay for food and drink and threatening to sue her for operating the business without a licence. Ancharika explained that the go-go bar manager booked the restaurant for her birthday party. The woman came with about 20 colleagues. They enjoyed food and alcohol from 4am until 8am and the bill was around 15,000 baht. The go-go bar manager then complained to Ancharika that the food at her restaurant was tasteless and more expensive compared to other places. She also accused her restaurant of slow service. Ancharika said she decided to give the customer a discount of 1,000 baht as way of an apology. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 7 Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-14 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Phuket café’s lion cub sparks police and wildlife officers manhunt by Mitch Connor A lion cub, used as a tourist attraction at a café in Phuket, set off a manhunt by Thai police and wildlife officers. The cub was made available to the public for photographs at The Glass House Café and Space, located north of Phuket Town. This unusual situation ignited a wave of online controversy, primarily from individuals deeply concerned about the welfare of the young animal. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1319857-phuket-café’s-lion-cub-sparks-police-and-wildlife-officers-manhunt/

A lion cub, used as a tourist attraction at a café in Phuket, set off a manhunt by Thai police and wildlife officers. The cub was made available to the public for photographs at The Glass House Café and Space, located north of Phuket Town. This unusual situation ignited a wave of online controversy, primarily from individuals deeply concerned about the welfare of the young animal. Leading the investigation was Chinthep Kanghae, the chief of the Khao Phra Thaew Non-Hunting Area in Thalang, the office charged with the protection of wildlife in Phuket. He was joined by Deputy Chief Police Lieutenant Boonphob Thinbut of the Phuket City Police, other city police officers, along representatives from the Phuket Tourist Police and Phuket Forestry Office. During their visit to the café, the team encountered a Chinese national, known only as Khai. Claiming to be a friend of the café owner, Khai was brought in for questioning at the Phuket City Police Station regarding the lion cub. Khai revealed to the officers that the cub was transported from Bangkok to Phuket, housed in Chalong for roughly 15 days, before being brought to the café. It was put on display for two to three hours daily and taken back to Chalong each night by its owner, whose identity remains unknown. Khai also mentioned that the cub’s owner was currently in Krabi but was due to return to Phuket soon, reported The Phuket News. by Mitch Connor Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-14 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai stepfather denies abusing 4 year old boy despite visible injuries (video) by Petch Petpailin Photo via YouTube/ ข่าวช่องวัน A Thai social media influencer solicited help from the police to rescue a four year old boy from his abusive stepfather, who denied allegations of abuse despite visible bite marks, bruises, and burns on the child’s body. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1319856-thai-stepfather-denies-abusing-4-year-old-boy-despite-visible-injuries-video/

A Thai social media influencer solicited help from the police to rescue a four year old boy from his abusive stepfather, who denied allegations of abuse despite visible bite marks, bruises, and burns on the child’s body. A community leader in the Khlong Samwa district of Bangkok reported the child abuse to the Bangkok Metropolitan Council and social media influencer Guntouch “Gun” Pongpaiboonwet after noticing the bruises on the boy’s face, bottom, and penis. The boy also suffered bite marks and burns, possibly from a burning cigarette. Channel 3 reported that the boy lived with his biological mother and stepfather. The boy usually cried and screamed at night, and locals in the area also heard the stepfather causing a racket at night time. The family only moved to the community in January and the stepfather worked at a nearby construction site. Gun, with officers from Kannayao Police Station and the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (M-Society), visited the community on Sunday, February 11. They met the boy and his mother, 26 year old Tai, in a rented room in the community and took them to the police station for questioning. by Petch Petpailin Photo via YouTube/ ข่าวช่องวัน Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-14 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Lightning strikes three farmers in eastern Thailand by Top Top Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Three farmers were struck by lightning while toiling on a farm in Huay Yai Phrom Community in Sri Racha district last Friday, February 9. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1319855-lightning-strikes-three-farmers-in-sri-racha/