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The unsecured loan arm of Bank of Ayudhya, Krungsri Consumer, is predicting a spike in credit card loans in the second half of the year, despite the economy limping along and new rules raising the minimum payments. Currently, Krungsri’s non-performing loan (NPL) rate is a lowly 1.4%, far better than the industry average of 2.9%. Atis Ruchirawat, head honcho at Krungsri Consumer Group, blames economic woes and new regulations for the dip in loan quality. Earlier this year, the Bank of Thailand slapped a higher minimum payment requirement on credit cards, bumping it from 5% to 8% of the total balance. While cardholders felt the pinch at first, things have now calmed down, said Atis. “We observed a rising trend in credit card NPLs starting from the second half of this year, and this is expected to continue until the end of the year. However, we anticipate the situation will remain manageable.” Atis stated that the company has been cautious in approving both credit cards and personal loans, aiming to align clients’ credit risk profiles with the economic environment. The approval rates for credit cards and personal loans are approximately 40% and 30%, respectively, a slight decrease from last year. Despite these challenges, Krungsri Consumer remains optimistic about achieving its business targets for the upcoming year, especially after a strong performance in the first half. The company acquired 287,000 new customer accounts in the first half, with a full-year target of 617,000 accounts, representing a 10% growth from the previous year. Personal loan portfolio This increase in accounts contributed to credit card spending reaching 189 billion baht, nearly half of the full-year target of 393 billion baht, which is an 8% increase from the previous year. Additionally, Krungsri Consumer expanded its new personal loan portfolio by 47 billion baht in the first half, up 6% year-on-year, targeting 100 billion baht for the year, a 9% gain from the previous year. The total outstanding unsecured loan portfolio grew to 140 billion baht in the first half, a 2% year-on-year increase. The full-year target is set at 151 billion baht, 2% higher than last year. According to Atis, the company has adjusted its business strategy to align with the economic environment over the next 12 months, focusing on three core areas: credit cards, personal loans, and instalment loans. The aim is to maintain a leading position in these segments through sustainable long-term growth, reported Bangkok Post. In addition, Krungsri Consumer is positioning itself as a payment facilitator by developing innovative payment systems, such as biometric payments, to align with digital era trends. The company is collaborating with hypermarket Lotus’s to test facial recognition payments in a pilot project. by Bob Scott Picture courtesy by Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-30 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Outrage over Luxury Car Owner’s Littering on Chonburi Bridge Picture courtesy: Pattaya Mail Social media users are fuming after a viral video revealed a woman driving a luxury car dumping rubbish into the sea from the Cholamarkwithi Bridge, a notable tourist landmark in Chonburi Province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336836-outrage-over-luxury-car-owner’s-littering-on-chonburi-bridge/

Picture courtesy: Pattaya Mail Social media users are fuming after a viral video revealed a woman driving a luxury car dumping rubbish into the sea from the Cholamarkwithi Bridge, a notable tourist landmark in Chonburi Province. The video, captured by a dashboard camera and shared by the “Chonburi News” Facebook page, features a woman in her 40s or 50s stepping out of a black Mercedes onto the bridge. Ignoring a nearby bin, she casually throws a ball-sized garbage bag into the water. The post's caption noted the trash bin being just 20 meters away, critiquing her apparent love for her car but not the environment. The footage has ignited public outrage, with many social media users condemning the woman's blatant disregard for environmental preservation. The car's license plate is clearly visible in the video, prompting calls for the authorities to take legal action, reported Pattaya Mail. In response, local reporters visited the scene, confirming the location is near a dim sum restaurant on the bridge. They noted the proximity of a trash can, situated within 20 meters of where the woman discarded the garbage. Mr. Ek, a local vendor selling drinks on the bridge, mentioned that this kind of littering is unfortunately common. He frequently sees both tourists and residents carelessly dumping rubbish into the sea, especially after social gatherings on the bridge. “This kind of behaviour not only tarnishes our environment but also affects the marine ecosystem and ruins the seawater’s quality,” Mr. Ek commented. Wittaya Khunpluem, President of the Chonburi Provincial Administrative Organization (PAO), urged both locals and tourists to adhere to proper waste disposal practices. He highlighted the significance of the Cholamarkwithi Bridge as both a tourist spot and a crucial traffic route. In a bid to prevent such incidents, the PAO plans to coordinate with Chonburi Municipality to increase the number of trash disposal points. As for the offending driver, the Chonburi PAO will refer the matter to the Bang Sai Subdistrict Municipality for potential legal action under the Public Cleanliness Act. -- 2024-08-30 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Surin Elephant Museum trumpets into life next month by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Surin province will unveil its majestic new treasure, the Surin Elephant Museum, on September 5. This monumental opening promises a trunk-load of fascinating insights and interactive exhibits dedicated to the grandeur of elephants. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336832-surin-elephant-museum-trumpets-into-life-next-month/

Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Surin province will unveil its majestic new treasure, the Surin Elephant Museum, on September 5. This monumental opening promises a trunk-load of fascinating insights and interactive exhibits dedicated to the grandeur of elephants. The Surin Elephant Museum, born from a partnership between the Surin Provincial Administrative Organisation and the Dr Thiam Chokwatana Foundation, is set to become a premier destination for both education and tourism. Advertisements Divided into four captivating zones, the museum offers a comprehensive journey through the world of elephants. Visitors can explore the history and significance of royal, wild, and domesticated elephants in the first zone, while the second zone delves into intriguing stories about these gentle giants. The third zone showcases the ancient history of elephants, and the fourth zone, the Elephant Gallery, displays an array of stunning elephant-themed exhibits. This initiative is a key component of the Elephant World project, which aims to establish Surin as a global hub for elephant conservation. Known as the land of elephants, Surin is committed to the preservation of these magnificent creatures through a world-class conservation centre and educational facility. The project also seeks to reconnect the Kui people, a local ethnic group renowned for their deep-rooted traditions in elephant care, with their cultural heritage and homeland. Positioned as the world’s largest elephant conservation centre, the Surin Elephant Museum is more than just a tourist attraction; it is a centre for research and learning, dedicated to enhancing our understanding and appreciation of elephants, reported Pattaya Mail. In related news, a group of tourists found themselves in a perilous situation when their raft capsized in a raging river in Chiang Mai province on June 30. Swift action by a team of elephant riders ensured their safe rescue. The incident occurred when a sudden strong current overturned the tourists’ raft, leaving them stranded in the middle of the river. Clinging desperately to the tip of a tree, the tourists awaited rescue as the waters surged around them. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-30 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thaksin's New Tax Plan Targets Poverty in Thailand FILE - Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, left, with, his daughter Paetongtarn, arrives at Don Muang airport in Bangkok, Thailand, Tuesday, Aug. 22, 2023.(AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit, File) Thaksin Shinawatra, the former Thai Prime Minister, is back in the news with a bold proposal: a negative income tax (NIT) aimed at reducing poverty and social inequality in Thailand. This latest plan could significantly alter the country's tax system. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336829-thaksins-new-tax-plan-targets-poverty-in-thailand/

FILE - Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, left, with, his daughter Paetongtarn, arrives at Don Muang airport in Bangkok, Thailand, Tuesday, Aug. 22, 2023.(AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit, File) Thaksin Shinawatra, the former Thai Prime Minister, is back in the news with a bold proposal: a negative income tax (NIT) aimed at reducing poverty and social inequality in Thailand. This latest plan could significantly alter the country's tax system. The concept of NIT is not entirely new to Thailand. Over a decade ago, the Finance Ministry's Fiscal Policy Office (FPO) introduced a similar proposal. It was also included in the 12th National Economic and Social Development Plan (2017-2021) and the National Reform Plan under former PM Prayut Chan-o-cha. The Pheu Thai Party, to which Thaksin belongs, even highlighted a related idea in their most recent election campaign. So, what exactly is NIT? It’s essentially a system where the government supplements the income of individuals earning below a certain threshold. As these individuals’ earnings grow, the government’s support gradually reduces and eventually stops. The aim is to incentivise work and integrate recipients into the tax system. Unlike traditional welfare, NIT requires recipients to be working and paying into the tax system. Thaksin isn’t the first to propose something like this. The concept was first introduced by renowned economist Milton Friedman, who suggested it as a way to combat poverty without disrupting the free market. However, for NIT to work effectively in Thailand, the tax system will need substantial reforms. Currently, Thai citizens earning as little as 60,000 baht a year must file taxes, but compliance is inconsistent. Under the NIT plan, everyone would be required to file taxes, even if they earn just one baht. This would require amending Section 56 of the Revenue Code. One significant challenge is public acceptance. Connecting NIT to the tax system might cause confusion and concerns about increased taxation, making it a tough sell politically. Additionally, NIT excludes non-working individuals, suggesting the need for alternative support measures like vocational training. The FPO sees NIT as part of a broader welfare reform strategy. This initiative aims to target support to those most in need while easing the financial strain of welfare payments on the government's budget. Existing programmes like the Universal Coverage scheme already demand substantial funding, and political promises of additional benefits only add to the pressure. Thailand’s revenue collection is already strained, with tax cuts and a stagnant VAT rate contributing to a shrinking revenue base. The country has been running a budget deficit for two decades. Introducing NIT might be a risky but potentially game-changing move for Thailand. Whether Thaksin's proposal will be the solution Thailand needs remains to be seen, but it undeniably opens up a significant conversation about the future of welfare and taxation in the country. -- 2024-08-30 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Bangkok Prepares for Rising Waters: Governor Reassures Residents Photo courtesy: The Nation Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt has stepped up to ensure the city's readiness as floodwaters approach, focusing on key flood defence projects. Accompanied by Deputy Governor Wisanu Supsompol and officials from the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) Drainage and Sewerage Department, Chadchart recently inspected vital flood levee repairs along the Chao Phraya River in Yannawa district. Attention centered on the Rama III area, where a new water gate at Klong Ta Huang is under construction. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336828-bangkok-prepares-for-rising-waters-governor-reassures-residents/

Photo courtesy: The Nation Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt has stepped up to ensure the city's readiness as floodwaters approach, focusing on key flood defence projects. Accompanied by Deputy Governor Wisanu Supsompol and officials from the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) Drainage and Sewerage Department, Chadchart recently inspected vital flood levee repairs along the Chao Phraya River in Yannawa district. Attention centered on the Rama III area, where a new water gate at Klong Ta Huang is under construction. During the visit, Chadchart and his team assessed the ongoing work on the new gate, which aims to enhance water management. Plans also include dredging the canal to increase its water retention capacity. The delegation reviewed recent repairs to ruptured levees and the installation of water pumps in critical spots to manage overflow risks effectively. Chadchart expressed confidence in the city's flood management preparations, highlighting the ample capacity of the Sirikit and Bhumibol dams upstream to handle additional water. These measures, he believes, will mitigate the impact of the floodwaters and rising sea tides expected in October. “We are well-prepared for the upcoming flood season,” Chadchart assured residents. “The BMA is capable of managing the situation efficiently, ensuring Bangkok remains safe.” As the city gears up for potential challenges, a Thai economist has issued a grave warning about the long-term risks. Without significant intervention, Bangkok could face submersion within the next seven to eight years, posing substantial economic and social threats. In other related news, a dispute erupted over the distribution of meal boxes to flood victims in Nan province. On August 23, a Facebook post from the group Original Nan Community Market detailed the frustrations of a member who struggled to access food aid, sparking a heated online debate. Governor Chadchart's proactive approach marks a crucial step in safeguarding Bangkok’s residents and infrastructure, proving essential as natural threats loom on the horizon. -- 2024-08-30 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Friday 30 August 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336823-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-friday-30-august-2024/

The Democrat Party last night formally decided to join a new coalition government being formed by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra despite opposition from many of its senior members. The party’s secretary general said the party needed to look forward and forget past animosity. In Nakhon Ratchasima, Rescuers from Thailand's State Railway and a Chinese team at the site of a collapsed train tunnel, found the body of a trapped worker from Myanmar lying close to his truck, buried under a pile of soil and rocks. Two Chinese workers remain trapped and are believed to be just a few meters ahead. A Chinese engineering team has reinforced the tunnel structure to ensure the safety of the ongoing rescue. The Criminal Court for Corruption has accepted an indictment against eight defendants accused of covering up and altering the reported speed in a 2012 fatal accident involving Vorayuth Yoovidhya, grandson of Red Bull's co-founder. Despite evidence, the police Deputy Commissioner General did not oppose the decision not to charge Vorayuth with driving under the influence. The statute of limitations for the remaining charge of reckless driving causing death has now expired. The Samui Provincial Court has sentenced Daniel Sancho Bronchalo, son of Spanish actor Rodolfo Sancho, to life in prison for the high-profile murder and dismemberment of a Colombian man on Koh Phangan last year. The court found the 30-year-old guilty of the premeditated murder of 44-year-old Edwin Arteaga. Sancho, who was on vacation at the time, had claimed the killing was an act of self-defense. Around the region Myanmar: Resistance forces reportedly seized two artillery battalion headquarters in northern Shan State over the last 2 day after weeks of fighting. junta fighter jets and a Y-12 transport plane were reported to have dropped at least 100 bombs in the area. Todays Weather Chiang Mai and the north: partly cloudy showers 32C degrees celsius Bangkok: sunny, Partly cloudy Thunder showers 31 Pattaya: cloudy with showers 30 Phuket and the south: sunny, partly Cloudy 31 Hua Hin: Bright but cloudy isolated rain showers 31C Much the same over the weekend . AQI: green which is good Green clear, yellow moderate, Orange High, Red unhealthy. Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Wunderground.com The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Windy.com. -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-08-26 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Soil Indicators not Working During Phuket Landslide, says Official By Goongnang Suksawat The Department of Mineral Resources has confirmed soil indicators used to detect possible landslides are not working due to a lack of budget and maintenance. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336821-soil-indicators-not-working-during-phuket-landslide-says-official/

The Department of Mineral Resources has confirmed soil indicators used to detect possible landslides are not working due to a lack of budget and maintenance. The Geohazard Operation Center, part of the Department of Mineral Resources, informed the Phuket Express on Wednesday (August 28th), that the soil indicator on Nark Kerd Mountain was not operational prior to the landslide incident. The reason for this was a lack of budget for maintenance. Additionally, the soil indicator had been installed near a tree in the parking area close to the landslide’s starting point. Unfortunately, termites were found inside the indicator system, and some trees and structures obstructed its functionality. The indicator relies on solar cell power, but when it was initially installed, there were no obstructions in the device’s area. However, over time, signals were blocked due to the surrounding vegetation and structures. Some sensors were also not functioning properly. Furthermore, the udometer (rain measurement device) was also non-operational due to insufficient maintenance funding. These combined factors have significantly reduced the effectiveness of the soil indicators. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-08-30 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

American Driver Arrested after Road Rage Incident in Wichit By Goongnang Suksawat Wichit-On Thursday (August 29th), an American driver was arrested following a road rage incident in Wichit. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336820-american-driver-arrested-after-road-rage-incident-in-wichit/

Wichit-On Thursday (August 29th), an American driver was arrested following a road rage incident in Wichit. According to Ms. Sand (alias), a 26-year-old, she was driving on the Bypass Road toward a shopping mall when a car abruptly overtook her twice without signaling. She assumed the other driver was in a hurry. At the red light near the Darasamut Intersection, the same car stopped next to hers. The angry driver exited his vehicle and attempted to open her locked door, causing her considerable fear. The police traced the foreign driver through his car’s license plate. The car owner, identified only as Mr. Sunny, a 44-year-old American national, was summoned to the Wichit Police Station. He holds an international driver’s license. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-08-30 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai netizens raised concerns and legal questions following the release of an advertising video featuring Chinese nationals selling luxury houses in the Rama 9 area of Bangkok, despite Thai law prohibiting land ownership by foreigners. A TikTok user, @thaiarya.party, shared the advertising video of the Chinese-owned residential project on Monday, August 26, with a caption that read, “We (Thai people) may have to rent Chinese-owned houses in the future.” In the video, a Chinese male host introduces a luxury villa in the Rama 9 neighbourhood of Bangkok, which is available for nearly 5 million baht. This price is considered very low for a project located in the city centre of Bangkok, which is well-equipped with shopping malls, hospitals, schools, petrol stations, public transport, and more. The Chinese host also gives a home tour, showcasing what the luxury house has to offer. The ground floor of the house includes a kitchen, living room, dining area, an empty room ideal for a home gym, a pet area, and a maid’s room. The second floor is described as having all the features one would expect from a luxury mansion. It includes a balcony, four bedrooms, a luxury walk-in closet in the master bedroom, a children’s room, and more. by Petch Petpailin Photo via DailyNews and TikTok/ @thaiarya.party Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-30 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Chinese luxury property pitch in Bangkok angers Thai netizens (video) by Petch Petpailin Photo via DailyNews and TikTok/ @thaiarya.party Thai netizens raised concerns and legal questions following the release of an advertising video featuring Chinese nationals selling luxury houses in the Rama 9 area of Bangkok, despite Thai law prohibiting land ownership by foreigners. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336819-chinese-luxury-property-pitch-in-bangkok-angers-thai-netizens/

Pattaya City Planning to Make Improvements to Iconic Pattaya Sign By Adam Judd Pattaya-During a recent Pattaya City Council meeting, Mr. Banlue Kulawanit, President of the Pattaya City Council, raised a question about using accumulated funds to improve the efficiency of the Pattaya sign lighting that overlooks Pattaya Bay and is seen as an icon and landmark of the city. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336818-pattaya-city-planning-to-make-improvements-to-iconic-pattaya-sign/

Pattaya-During a recent Pattaya City Council meeting, Mr. Banlue Kulawanit, President of the Pattaya City Council, raised a question about using accumulated funds to improve the efficiency of the Pattaya sign lighting that overlooks Pattaya Bay and is seen as an icon and landmark of the city. The purpose of this project is to enhance and maintain the iconic sign, which has been in use for a long time and has various damaged lighting devices, which has even led to complaints by readers of The Pattaya News due to limited functionality compared to the past. By using modern technology and equipment, the goal is to increase interest, highlight Pattaya City’s landmark, and promote tourism. By Adam Judd Source: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-08-30 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

UPDATE First Worker Found Dead in Tunnel Collapse A tragic discovery has been made as the first worker trapped in the collapsed railway tunnel has been found dead, with the efforts to rescue the remaining two workers are ongoing. Full story : https://aseannow.com/topic/1336423-landslide-buries-workers-inside-high-speed-rail-tunnel-construction-in-nakhon-ratchasima/?do=findComment&comment=19189965

Paetongtarn's Leadership Under Scrutiny Amid Ethics Allegations Thailand newly elected Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, waits for her father and former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra before the royal endorsement ceremony appointing Paetongtarn as Thailand's new prime minister at Pheu Thai party headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand, Sunday, Aug. 18, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra faces potential impeachment as deputy leader of the Palang Pracharath Party, Paiboon Nititawan, accuses her of dishonesty and unethical conduct. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336816-paetongtarns-leadership-under-scrutiny-amid-ethics-allegations/

AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra faces potential impeachment as deputy leader of the Palang Pracharath Party, Paiboon Nititawan, accuses her of dishonesty and unethical conduct. Allegations have surfaced following her failure to uphold promises regarding the formation of a sustained Pheu Thai-led government coalition. Paiboon cited a precedent involving former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who was deemed severely unethical by the Constitutional Court for appointing a controversial minister. This ruling led to the abrupt end of Srettha's tenure earlier this month. Paetongtarn, daughter of influential politician Thaksin Shinawatra, might similarly face impeachment due to breaking her coalition promises. Supporting this, Paiboon detailed how Paetongtarn had initially secured 39 votes from Palang Pracharath MPs for her prime ministerial bid by pledging to maintain the coalition. However, failing to include Palang Pracharath in the government, Paetongtarn is now seen as having reneged on her commitments, questioning her leadership integrity. Paiboon linked Paetongtarn's situation to Srettha's case, suggesting her actions may also be regarded as evidently dishonest and unethical. This could potentially result in the loss of her premiership. Meanwhile, tensions have risen within the political landscape. Palang Pracharath, led by Prawit Wongsuwan, was recently ousted from the Pheu Thai-led government. Nonetheless, a faction of Palang Pracharath MPs, guided by Secretary-General Thammanat Prompao, continues to support the coalition, painting a fragmented political scene. In another layer of complexity, a lawsuit pursuing the dissolution of the Pheu Thai Party has been filed with the Election Commission. This claim argues that Thaksin, despite being legally banned from party leadership due to previous convictions, still exerts control over Pheu Thai, contravening electoral laws. Paetongtarn's political challenges amplify amidst ongoing efforts by her father Thaksin to steer coalition partnerships, further illustrating the intense scrutiny and political rifts shaping Thailand's government dynamics as key figures navigate these contentious allegations. -- 2024-08-30 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Former police chief and others arraigned in Red Bull hit-and-run by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Former National Police Chief Police General Somyot Poompanmoung, former Deputy Attorney-General Nate Naksuk, and six others have been arraigned by public prosecutors in connection with the Red Bull heir hit-and-run case. The defendants face severe charges, including dereliction of duty. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336815-former-police-chief-and-others-arraigned-in-red-bull-hit-and-run/

Former National Police Chief Police General Somyot Poompanmoung, former Deputy Attorney-General Nate Naksuk, and six others have been arraigned by public prosecutors in connection with the Red Bull heir hit-and-run case. The defendants face severe charges, including dereliction of duty. Prosecutor Suvej Chompong represented the Office of the Attorney-General at the Bangkok Central Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases, submitting a 19-year statement of accusations against the accused. The charges arose from a request by the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), which accused the defendants of improperly handling the investigation. A key allegation involves altering the speed of the Ferrari driven by Vorayuth Yoovidhya, leading to the dismissal of his arraignment for reckless driving resulting in fatalities. This charge will expire in 2027, while other charges against Vorayuth have been dropped. The court granted bail to all eight defendants but restricted them from leaving the country. They are expected to file their pleas on September 10. Vorayuth, the son of Red Bull energy drink tycoon Chalerm Yoovidhya, has been a fugitive since September 3, 2012, when his sportscar fatally struck Police Senior Sergeant Major Wichian Klanprasert of Thong Lor Police Station. Reports suggest Vorayuth’s current location may be in London. FILE - Vorayuth "Boss" Yoovidhya, whose grandfather co-founded energy drink company Red Bull, walks to get in a car as he leaves a house in London Wednesday, April 5, 2017. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham, File) During the arraignment, Pol. Gen. Somyot voiced his concern and unease about proving his innocence in court. He declined to comment on the prosecutors’ fresh actions, noting that the matter is now before the judges, reported Bangkok Post. “Public prosecutors will not oppose their bail requests if the defendants seek temporary release.” In related news, a Thai student has gained international recognition by winning a design competition for the Red Bull Racing Formula One car to be used in the British Grand Prix. In other news, a dramatic incident unfolded on July 25 as a white Honda Brio was involved in a hit-and-run, prompting a woman to cling to the car’s bonnet while screaming for help. Despite her pleas, the driver sped off, causing panic on the streets. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-30 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 30 August 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1336814-thailand-live-friday-30-august-2024/