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NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Thursday 25 January 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1317976-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-thursday-25-january-2024/

Education authorities and police will assign local law enforcement officers to patrol schools after hours following an assault of a school teacher in Chaing Rai last week. The female teacher suffered serious injuries following the attack by a 38 yr old male. Teachers have been taking turns to safeguard school properties outside of working hours, security officers will now be assigned to schools nationwide, backed up by CCTV. THe former National Security Council secretary-general has called on prosecutors to appeal the Supreme Court’s acquittal of former prime minister Yingluck Shinawatra of misconduct in the case he brought against her. The alleged abuse of power dates back to 2011 when Yingluck signed an order transferring Mr Thawin to work as an adviser to the prime minister. Last month the court ruled that Yingluck had no intention of causing damage to Mr Thawin and that it was a normal transfer, The mayor of a municipality in Saraburi has been arrested on charges of demanding and accepting bribes related to a construction contract. The 58 year old was arrested in Singburi yesterday and is accused of taking bribes as a state official, dereliction of duty, and abusing his authority to demand assets or benefits. His arrest follows a complaint by a local contractor. Two university lecturers, one from Chiang Mai University and another from Chulabhorn Royal Academy were dismissed for purchasing or plagiarizing research papers. A total of 109 academics from 33 universities underwent investigation for research fraud, 14 from eight universities were found to have submitted papers with irregularities. Around the region China: At least 39 people died after a fire broke out at a store in the central Chinese province of Jiang-xi yesterday, the fire broke out below ground level . several people were still believed to be trapped inside the building. WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: Sunny partly cloudy, 28C Bangkok: Cloudy, 31C Pattaya: Sunny partly cloudy 32C Phuket and the south: Sunny partly cloudy some showers 31C Hua Hin: Sunny partly cloudy 30C AQI yellow and Orange which is moderate to high. 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 2024-01-25 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

Thailand aims to become Asian aviation hub, says prime minister by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Thairath Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has outlined plans to transform Thailand into an Asian aviation hub. The announcement was made during his keynote speech at the Thailand 2024 The Great Challenges event. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1317973-thailand-aims-to-become-asian-aviation-hub-says-prime-minister/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has outlined plans to transform Thailand into an Asian aviation hub. The announcement was made during his keynote speech at the Thailand 2024 The Great Challenges event. He highlighted the government’s focus on tourism and the introduction of several measures to boost the industry, including reciprocal visa exemption programmes. A reciprocal visa exemption deal will be signed with China this week, according to the premier. Additionally, talks are planned with the European Union to discuss a similar agreement with Schengen countries. PM Srettha detailed the government’s ambitious aim to upgrade the nation’s aviation sector, which would necessitate streamlined immigration procedures, flight overhauls, and the construction of airports in secondary cities. He underscored the significance of extending economic opportunities to Thai citizens through major projects, referring to the Thaksin Shinawatra government’s decision to construct the Suvarnabhumi airport as a past example, reported Bangkok Post. He stated, “Over the past two decades, we had governments that saw opportunities and seized them.” by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Thairath Full story: The Thaiger 2024-01-25 - 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

UPDATE: Two French nationals implicated in production of fake French ID cards Two male French nationals, who used to teach English at a foundation in Chiang Mai, have been accused of producing and selling fake French ID cards to illegal immigrants in France via the dark web. full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1317484-frenchman-arrested-in-chiang-mai-for-selling-fake-id-cards/?do=findComment&comment=18643062

Immigration Police Conduct Operation in Bangkok's Silom Area Picture: Siam Rath In a joint operation, immigration officials and police lieutenant colonels raided an apartment complex in the Silom district, searching for undocumented laborers. The building, consisting of two interconnected 5-story units, housed a significant number of Myanmar migrant workers. Despite a thorough investigation, no evidence of illegal entry was found. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1317971-immigration-police-conduct-operation-in-bangkoks-silom-area/

In a joint operation, immigration officials and police lieutenant colonels raided an apartment complex in the Silom district, searching for undocumented laborers. The building, consisting of two interconnected 5-story units, housed a significant number of Myanmar migrant workers. Despite a thorough investigation, no evidence of illegal entry was found. During the search, authorities discovered one individual, identified as Mr. Thenn, a 32-year-old Myanmar national. He was linked to Mr. Azeejee, a 45-year-old Myanmar citizen who had been brutally murdered by an Indian man in Bangkok, reported Siam Rath Picture: Siam Rath Lieutenant Colonel Samran explained that the recent collaboration between immigration, border patrol, and special operations units aimed to inspect undocumented foreign nationals and verify accommodation providers. The tragic incident involving the murder of a Myanmar laborer led to intensified efforts to ensure the safety of foreign residents in line with government policies. Regarding the specific accommodation in question, three Myanmar nationals arrived in Thailand on January 13, and it was revealed that an Indian agent facilitated their stay in the mentioned apartment. Picture: Siam Rath The agent hosted the three individuals, including the deceased, and three additional individuals, totaling six people in unauthorized accommodations. The agent admitted to receiving 42,000 baht in total from the group. The investigation further revealed that the agent, identified as Gunalan Deivasigamani (Guna) aged 23, and Sundaravel Pragadeesh Kumar (Kuma) aged 26, were coordinating with the six Myanmar nationals. Both were Indian nationals seeking employment. Picture: Siam Rath As the authorities continue their inquiry, they are coordinating with international law enforcement agencies and planning to issue a red notice for the arrest of the Indian suspect involved in the murder case. Additionally, immigration officers are scrutinizing all entries on the day to check for violations of Section 38, ensuring that accommodation providers comply with the law. Colonel Nopasilp emphasized that legal action will be taken against the accommodation owner for failing to notify authorities of the foreign residents, as required by the Immigration Act of 1979. The ongoing investigation aims to establish the motives behind the murder, potentially stemming from job dissatisfaction due to the deceased's lack of employment despite paying the agent. Colonel Nopasilp urged the witnesses to come forward, promising a comprehensive legal response. TOP: Picture: Siam Rath -- ASEAN NOW 2024-01-25 - 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

Fewer Japanese tourists have visited Thailand in a historic first by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Thailand found itself on the flip side of tourism dynamics, experiencing a historic tourism deficit with Japan in the first half of 2023. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1317969-fewer-japanese-tourists-have-visited-thailand-in-a-historic-first/

Thailand found itself on the flip side of tourism dynamics, experiencing a historic tourism deficit with Japan in the first half of 2023. The numbers tell a startling tale: one million Thais ventured into Japan, while a mere 300,000 Japanese enthusiasts made their way to the tropical haven of Thailand. In a dramatic departure from the norm, Thailand, renowned for its tropical allure, consistently boasted a tourism surplus with Japan. The 2022 figures highlighted this trend, with 1.5 million Japanese tourists basking in Thailand’s beauty, while only 600,000 Thais explored the wonders of Japan. But 2023 ushered in an era of reversal, leaving experts and travel enthusiasts alike scratching their heads. Multiple factors have orchestrated this twist in the tourism tale. Firstly, the easing of Covid-19 restrictions in Japan played a pivotal role. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Full story: The Thaiger 2024-01-25 - 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

UPDATE: Thai Constitutional Court ruling spares Pita stating iTV not mass media by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod The Constitutional Court’s panel of judges has ruled ex-Move Forward Party (MFP) leader Pita Limjaroenrat not guilty in the iTV shareholding case regarding his membership in the House of Representatives. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1317926-court-clears-pita-of-itv-shares-charges/?do=findComment&comment=18642911

Thai Constitutional Court ruling spares Pita stating iTV not mass media by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod The Constitutional Court’s panel of judges has ruled ex-Move Forward Party (MFP) leader Pita Limjaroenrat not guilty in the iTV shareholding case regarding his membership in the House of Representatives. The court met at 9.30am today, January 24, to discuss and vote in the case where the Election Commission (EC) had requested to decide the case of Pita who is a shareholder in iTV Public Company Limited, operating newspapers and other mass media, making him ineligible to apply for MP membership, according to the Constitution, Section 101 (6) in conjunction with Section 98 (3). The Constitutional Court ordered the 43 year old former MFP leader to cease his duties as an MP from July 19 last year until a court decision is ruled. Constitutional Court judges confirmed that there had been no delay to the court ruling. The court stated that opinions expressed by Pita on the case in various media outlets are considered inappropriate as they interfere with court decisions, whether positive or negative. The court found that there was sufficient evidence to make a decision. There was no evidence that Pita transferred the iTV shares. It was considered that Pita held the shares on the date the MFP submitted its list of names for MP membership, reported KhaoSod. Full story: The Thaiger 2024-01-25 - 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

Biometric system glitch at Suvarnabhumi Airport causes passenger delays by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of Matichon Suvarnabhumi International Airport faced significant disruptions early this morning when its biometric immigration system malfunctioned, causing delays and a rapid build-up of passengers. Immigration police swiftly implemented contingency measures to mitigate the impact on flight schedules. In the predawn hours of yesterday, Suvarnabhumi Airport’s immigration department was thrown into chaos as the biometric system encountered technical issues around 4.30am. Chaired by Chaiyapruek Rimphadee, the Immigration Division 2 leader and spokesperson for the Immigration Bureau, a swift response was initiated to address the malfunctioning system. Photo courtesy of Matichon Normally, the processing time from presenting a passport to receiving a stamped clearance by immigration officers at Suvarnabhumi Airport takes no more than 45 seconds per individual. However, due to the system failure, the time required per passenger exceeded one minute. The breakdown also affected the automatic passport control channels, which were unable to function, resulting in extended queues that stretched back to the baggage screening areas, reported KhaoSod. As passengers bound for international flights quickly accumulated, the queues extended significantly from the usual immigration counters starting from 4.30am. The Immigration Division 2 communicated with the Immigration Checkpoint Technology Center, which oversees the biometric technology, urging an urgent resolution. Full story: The Thaiger 2024-01-25 - 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

Cambodian Man Attacked at Jomtien Bar By Tanakorn Panyadee PHOTO: TMN Cable TV Pattaya Pattaya —A 21-year-old Cambodian man was injured in an assault outside a bar near the Jomtien Complex condominium. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1317968-cambodian-man-attacked-at-jomtien-bar/

PHOTO: TMN Cable TV Pattaya Pattaya —A 21-year-old Cambodian man was injured in an assault outside a bar near the Jomtien Complex condominium. Pattaya police and volunteers from the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Foundation responded to the incident reported last night on January 23rd, 2024. Upon arrival at the scene, authorities found the victim, Mr. Thep Song, with visible injuries including a swollen and bruised eye, head wounds, and bodily bruises. He was waiting for assistance outside the bar where the incident had occurred. Rescue volunteers provided initial medical aid before transporting Thep to Pattaya Hospital for further treatment. By Tanakorn Panyadee Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-01-25 - 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

UPDATE: Pita lives to fight another day. Next week, the court decides the future of the Move Forward Party by Joseph O' Connor Former Move Forward Party leader and public favourite, Pita Limjaroenrat at the Constitutional Court precincts on Wednesday. He received an enthusiastic welcome from supporters. Inside, the judges ruled eight to one in his favour. They dismissed a charge of breaching Section 98(3) of the Constitution in relation to his technical shareholding in a defunct TV station called iTV. Pita wins the case amid uncertainty. The Move Forward Party’s fate still hangs in the balance. In a landmark ruling, the Constitutional Court cleared Pita Limjaroenrat on a media shareholding complaint. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1317927-pita-to-stage-political-comeback/?do=findComment&comment=18642900

Pita lives to fight another day. Next week, the court decides the future of the Move Forward Party by Joseph O' Connor Former Move Forward Party leader and public favourite, Pita Limjaroenrat at the Constitutional Court precincts on Wednesday. He received an enthusiastic welcome from supporters. Inside, the judges ruled eight to one in his favour. They dismissed a charge of breaching Section 98(3) of the Constitution in relation to his technical shareholding in a defunct TV station called iTV. Pita wins the case amid uncertainty. The Move Forward Party’s fate still hangs in the balance. In a landmark ruling, the Constitutional Court cleared Pita Limjaroenrat on a media shareholding complaint. While supporters celebrated, the Move Forward Party is preparing for a critical decision on January 31, which will determine its survival. Former Move Forward Party leader Pita Limjaroenrat survived his day of destiny appointment to hear the verdict in the media shareholding case against him on Wednesday. The case last year saw him suspended from parliament. Simultaneously, it also effectively scuppered the Move Forward Party’s efforts to form a government. However, despite the carnival atmosphere at the Constitutional Court on Wednesday, celebrations were muted. Later, a case judgment scheduled for January 31st could decide the future survival of the party. In a highly significant ruling today, the Constitutional Court declared that Pita Limjaroenrat, former leader of the Move Forward Party, did not violate the 2017 Full story: Thai Examiner.com 2024-01-25 - 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

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 25 January 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1317967-thailand-live-thursday-25-january-2024/

Immigration System Malfunction Causes Passenger Backlog SAMUT PRAKAN (TNA) – A disruption in the immigration biometrics system occurred early Wednesday morning at Suvarnabhumi Airport, leading to a buildup of passengers and prompting swift efforts to address the issue. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1317941-immigration-system-malfunction-causes-passenger-backlog/

Pita to stage political comeback Pita Limjaroenrat, the former leader of the Move Forward party, says that he is ready for a political comeback, after the Constitutional Court cleared him today of charges related to his ownership of iTV shares. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1317926-court-clears-pita-of-itv-shares-charges/?do=findComment&comment=18642156

The Constitutional Court has cleared the former leader of the Move Forward party, Pita Limjaroenrat, of the charge that he contested in last year’s election while holding shares in a media company. Court clears Pita of iTV shares charges Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1317926-court-clears-pita-of-itv-shares-charges/

Thai PM announces stimulus measures amidst economic crisis by Alex Morgan Alex Picture courtesy of ThaiPost Acknowledging Thailand’s struggling economy, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who also serves as the Finance Minister, said today the government is set to introduce a series of stimulus measures to bolster growth. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1317919-thai-pm-announces-stimulus-measures-amidst-economic-crisis/

Acknowledging Thailand’s struggling economy, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who also serves as the Finance Minister, said today the government is set to introduce a series of stimulus measures to bolster growth. This revelation comes amidst criticism from Bank of Thailand‘s (BoT) Governor Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput, who argued that the government’s efforts will not rectify the underlying structural problems at the root of the country’s economic woes. PM Srettha confirmed to reporters that the Thai economy is in a state of crisis while acknowledging the central bank’s divergence on the issue. “Different viewpoints from the BoT are acceptable.” The governor’s comments yesterday followed the government’s decision to revise growth projections for 2024 to 2.8% from an initial forecast of 3.2%. The adjustment was attributed to weaker-than-predicted exports and a significant downturn in foreign tourist arrivals, reported Bangkok Post. by Alex Morgan Alex Picture courtesy of ThaiPost Full story: The Thaiger 2024-01-24 - 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

Pile of Concrete Bricks Collapses on Two Female Construction Workers in Sattahip By Tanakorn Panyadee Sattahip — Two female migrant workers were seriously injured when a large pile of concrete bricks collapsed on them on Tuesday, January 23rd, in Sattahip. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1317918-pile-of-concrete-bricks-collapses-on-two-female-construction-workers-in-sattahip/

Sattahip — Two female migrant workers were seriously injured when a large pile of concrete bricks collapsed on them on Tuesday, January 23rd, in Sattahip. The unidentified workers are from Laos and Cambodia, according to local reports. The victims, along with other migrant workers, were constructing a house wall at a housing development in Chonburi’s Sattahip district, when the brick pile suddenly collapsed on them around 3:40 PM for unclear reasons. By Tanakorn Panyadee Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-01-24 - 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

A million foreign arrivals expected for Chinese New Year in February – TAT The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has predicted that almost a million foreign tourists will visit the kingdom during the Chinese New Year festival, which runs from February 8th to 16th, generating an estimated 28 billion baht in revenues. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1317915-a-million-foreign-arrivals-expected-for-chinese-new-year-in-february-–-tat/