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Acting Democrat leader says policy statement doesn’t match election pledges Acting Democrat party leader Jurin Laksanawisit told parliament today (Monday) that the government’s policies, delivered by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, do not match those promised by the Pheu Thai party during the election campaign. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306286-acting-democrat-leader-says-policy-statement-doesn’t-match-election-pledges/

Acting Democrat party leader Jurin Laksanawisit told parliament today (Monday) that the government’s policies, delivered by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, do not match those promised by the Pheu Thai party during the election campaign. He cited the party’s manifesto, promising to provide each family with an income under 20,000 baht a month with financial support, to bring their monthly earnings up to 20,000 baht, saying that this was not mentioned in the policy statement. Pointing out that there are about 20 million such households, he said he doubts the government could secure the funding to realise this policy, which may cost the taxpayer about 100 billion baht per month. -- Thai PBS 2023-09-11 - 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

First Mobile Cabinet Meeting to Focus on Northeast Economy by Paul Rujopakarn BANGKOK (NNT) - Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is now focusing on boosting the economy of Thailand’s northeastern region, with plans to host his first mobile cabinet meeting in Nong Bua Lamphu province in November. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306281-first-mobile-cabinet-meeting-to-focus-on-northeast-economy/

Foreigners make a ‘cremazing’ splash with Gene Kelly-inspired dance in Thai temple rain by Petch Petpailin Photo via TikTok @ks_photogallery. A group of enthusiastic foreigners sparked both amusement and criticism among Thai netizens after sharing a video of dancing and singing in the rain Gene Kelly style in front of a crematorium at a temple in Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306280-foreigners-make-a-‘cremazing’-splash-with-gene-kelly-inspired-dance-in-thai-temple-rain/

A group of enthusiastic foreigners sparked both amusement and criticism among Thai netizens after sharing a video of dancing and singing in the rain Gene Kelly style in front of a crematorium at a temple in Thailand. A foreign woman shared a video of herself and friends on her TikTok account @ks_photogallery on Wednesday, September 6. The video features six people taking time out to reenact the 1952 movie Singin’ in the Rain, starring Gene Kelly, while the crematorium and temple formed the backdrop. Thai netizens found the video entertaining, with some playfully poking fun at the foreigners’ apparent lack of awareness regarding the establishment’s solemn purpose. by Petch Petpailin Photo via TikTok @ks_photogallery. Full story: https://thethaiger.com/news/national/foreigners-make-a-cremazing-splash-with-gene-kelly-inspired-dance-in-thai-temple-rain -- The Thaiger 2023-09-11 - 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

Sub-district Chief Will Not Escape Justice: Deputy Police Chief BANGKOK, Sept 11 (TNA) – A local administrator or Kamnan Nok, allegedly ordering a gunman to shoot a highway police officer will not escape justice as the evidence is being securely held, said Pol. Gen. Surachate Kahkparn, deputy national police chief. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306279-sub-district-chief-will-not-escape-justice-deputy-police-chief/

Three big battles for new defense minister: spending, conscription, and peace talks Armed with little or no background in military or security affairs, Sutin Klungsang faces huge challenges ahead as the newly appointed defense minister. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306273-three-big-battles-for-new-defense-minister-spending-conscription-and-peace-talks/

Armed with little or no background in military or security affairs, Sutin Klungsang faces huge challenges ahead as the newly appointed defense minister. However, security analysts reckon his ability to manage the armed forces will be enhanced by the respected military men among his advisers, including two retired Army generals who previously served as chiefs of the National Security Council (NSC). Sutin’s appointment as defense minister marks a new chapter in Thai politics, notes Wanwichit Boonprong, a political science lecturer at Rangsit University. Sutin, a deputy leader of the biggest coalition party, Pheu Thai, is Thailand’s sixth civilian defense minister but the first who does not double as prime minister. Wanwichit Boonprong Wanwichit dismissed criticism that Sutin’s lack of military experience would undermine his performance at the Defense Ministry, explaining that he had gathered a strong team of advisors who could reduce his workload and guide him safely past potential pitfalls. Full story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/three-big-battles-for-new-defense-minister-spending-conscription-and-peace-talks/ -- Thai PBS 2023-09-11 - 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: Bangkok crane catastrophe claims engineer’s life and injures Burmese workers by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Nonthawat Wisutthipat. A crane collapse at a construction site within Srinakharinwirot University in the Asoke neighbourhood of Bangkok resulted in the death of a Thai engineer and caused injuries to two Burmese workers. The crane operator fled the scene amid the tragedy. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306237-crane-collapses-in-sukhumvit-23-kills-engineer-injures-two-workers/?do=findComment&comment=18340395

Srettha Pays Respect To Spirit Shrine, Fully Ready For Policy Showdown by TNR Staff Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin paying respect to the Parliament spirit shrine and greeting people there this morning. Photo: Matichon PRIME MINISTER Srettha Thavisin entered Parliament compound at the auspicious moment of 7.59 a.m. this morning (Sep. 11) and after paying respect to a spirit shine there told reporters he is fully ready for the policy statement debate scheduled to continue over the next two days, Matichon newspaper said. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306269-srettha-pays-respect-to-spirit-shrine-fully-ready-for-policy-showdown/

PRIME MINISTER Srettha Thavisin entered Parliament compound at the auspicious moment of 7.59 a.m. this morning (Sep. 11) and after paying respect to a spirit shine there told reporters he is fully ready for the policy statement debate scheduled to continue over the next two days, Matichon newspaper said. Srettha said he is not only ready for the debate he is also ready to hear the opinions of all sides while hoping for harmouse atmosphere in the House of Representatives. He admitted that he was excited about entering Parliament for the first time and asked for blessing from all that is sacred in the premises to protect the country. by TNR Staff TOP: Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin paying respect to the Parliament spirit shrine and greeting people there this morning. Photo: Matichon Full story: https://thainewsroom.com/2023/09/11/srettha-pays-respect-to-spirit-shrine-fully-ready-for-policy-showdown/ -- THAI NEWSROOM 2023-09-11 - 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’s PIPO heroes: Two thai men saved, but waves claim two by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ MGR Online ภาคใต้ The Port-in-Port-out (PIPO) authorities in Phuket rescued two Thai men after their fishing boat capsized yesterday. Regrettably, two fishermen lost their lives in this tragic incident. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306268-phuket’s-pipo-heroes-two-thai-men-saved-but-waves-claim-two/

OP-ED – Highlights of the Prayut government’s diplomatic achievements By Kavi Chongkittavorn During the Prayut government’s 9-year administration, foreign policy played an indispensable role in pivoting Thailand on geopolitical landscape. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306267-highlights-of-the-prayut-government’s-diplomatic-achievements/

During the Prayut government’s 9-year administration, foreign policy played an indispensable role in pivoting Thailand on geopolitical landscape. After the coup in May 2014, the country was cursed and sanctioned by the West. With patience and persistence, Thai diplomacy has helped to restore the country’s international confidence and resilience. All along, Thailand has been walking a tight rope, trying to balance itself between great powers’ in competition and the fast-changing strategic environment. Meanwhile, the government had to earn respect, stay engaged and display diplomatic acumen to gain domestic and internal support. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) has always been at the forefront, as the country’s gatekeeper, whether in good or bad times. During his tenure, deputy prime minister and foreign minister Don Pramudwinai directed the conduct of Thai foreign policy based on national interests and the desire to place Thailand in the global scheme of things. Some of the diplomatic milestones under the Prayut government include: Thailand has been able to generate trust and confidence of its role in the regional and global community and in engagement with the great powers. As a trusted partner, Thailand succeeded in fulfilling its international roles and responsibilities. The success as last year’s chair of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation Leaders Meeting (APEC) and other regional and international conferences were evidence of the country’s effective diplomacy. By Kavi Chongkittavorn Full story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/highlights-of-the-prayut-governments-diplomatic-achievements/ -- Thai PBS 2023-09-11 - 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’s food delivery drivers feel pinch as Grab, Line rack up losses Gig workers say platforms such as Grab and Foodpanda have cut their pay rates without explanation. grab By Jitsiree Thongnoi Thailand's food delivery drivers say their incomes have shrunk since the end of the COVID-19 pandemic [File: Lillian Suwanrumpha/AFP] Bangkok, Thailand – When Piti began working as a Grab delivery driver at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the 26-year-old Bangkok resident had little trouble earning a decent wage. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306266-thailand’s-food-delivery-drivers-feel-pinch-as-grab-line-rack-up-losses/

Thailand's food delivery drivers say their incomes have shrunk since the end of the COVID-19 pandemic [File: Lillian Suwanrumpha/AFP] Gig workers say platforms such as Grab and Foodpanda have cut their pay rates without explanation. grab Bangkok, Thailand – When Piti began working as a Grab delivery driver at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the 26-year-old Bangkok resident had little trouble earning a decent wage. But after two years of delivering food to homes and offices, Piti’s earnings have taken such a dramatic hit that he is looking to switch jobs. For the past few months, Piti says he has been receiving a starting rate of 38 baht ($1.07) per food order, down from 40 baht ($1.12) in the past. Worse still, Piti says he picks up far fewer gigs due to a sharp rise in the number of drivers on the road. “I used to earn about 2,000 baht [$57] per day, but now some days I earn just 900 baht [$25],” Piti, who asked to use a pseudonym to avoid retaliation, told Al Jazeera. By Jitsiree Thongnoi TOP: Thailand's food delivery drivers say their incomes have shrunk since the end of the COVID-19 pandemic [File: Lillian Suwanrumpha/AFP] Full story: https://www.aljazeera.com/economy/2023/9/8/thailands-food-delivery-drivers-see-wages-slump-as-platforms-cut-costs -- AL JAZEERA 2023-09-11 - 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

MFP Candidate Wins Rayong's By-Election: Unofficial Results RAYONG, Sept 11 (TNA) – The Election Commission (EC) has released unofficial election results for Constituency 3 of Rayong Province, showing a significant lead for the Move Forward Party candidate over the second-place candidate from the Democrat Party. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306265-mfp-candidate-wins-rayongs-by-election-unofficial-results/

Four suspected Thai members of a call centre gang arrested in Cambodia Cambodian police have arrested four Thai nationals, alleged to be members of a Cambodia-based call centre gang implicated in cheating a Thai family in Samut Prakan, which ultimately led to the head of the family killing his wife and two children in desperation and unsuccessfully attempting suicide. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306264-four-suspected-thai-members-of-a-call-centre-gang-arrested-in-cambodia/

Cambodian police have arrested four Thai nationals, alleged to be members of a Cambodia-based call centre gang implicated in cheating a Thai family in Samut Prakan, which ultimately led to the head of the family killing his wife and two children in desperation and unsuccessfully attempting suicide. Pol Gen Surachate Hakparn, the deputy national police chief, told the media this evening (Sunday) that he has been informed, by the Cambodian national security command, about the arrests of one man and three women, wanted in Thailand for the alleged online fraud, which resulted in about 1.7 million baht being owed to the call centre by the family. He alleged that the male suspect is a supervisor of Thai nationals working for the call centre and is responsible for persuading people in Thailand to open “mule” bank accounts for money transactions. Full story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/four-suspected-thai-members-of-a-call-centre-gang-arrested-in-cambodia/ -- Thai PBS 2023-09-11 - 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

Air con, a fridge and sofa: Thaksin Shinawatra’s ‘VVIP’ prison life in Thailand Activists claim the former PM has received special treatment at a special hospital ward, which stands in stark contrast to the overcrowded prison system By Rebecca Ratcliffe in Bangkok Thaksin Shinawatra waves on arrival at Don Mueang airport in Bangkok. Photograph: Athit Perawongmetha/Reuters When Thailand’s former leader Thaksin Shinawatra returned from exile in August, he became arguably the most high-profile person held in the country’s notorious prisons. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306263-air-con-a-fridge-and-sofa-thaksin-shinawatra’s-‘vvip’-prison-life-in-thailand/

Activists claim the former PM has received special treatment at a special hospital ward, which stands in stark contrast to the overcrowded prison system When Thailand’s former leader Thaksin Shinawatra returned from exile in August, he became arguably the most high-profile person held in the country’s notorious prisons. But the billionaire businessman, who was jailed over corruption-related charges, was inside for little more than 12 hours before he was moved to the premium ward of a hospital in Bangkok. His perceived soft handling has prompted claims of special treatment and ignited a series of wider questions about standards within the prison system. According to reports in Thai media, Thaksin was moved to the wing of a hospital with private rooms fitted with air conditioning and a TV, fridge, sofa and dining table, while under 24-hour care by nurses. Officials have denied he’s been the recipient of any special treatment, saying the former prime minister needed urgent care as he was experiencing insomnia, chest tightness and high blood pressure and the oxygen levels in his fingertips were low. However, activists and lawyers have pointed to conditions inside Thailand’s jails, where cells are overcrowded and lacking in hygiene and medical care is limited. They say the same standard of care should be afforded to all prisoners. In a recent article for the Bangkok Post, Andrea Giorgetta of the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) writes: “One positive aspect of the Thaksin saga is that it has put a spotlight on the often-overlooked issue of prison conditions in Thailand.” By Rebecca Ratcliffe in Bangkok TOP: Thaksin Shinawatra waves on arrival at Don Mueang airport in Bangkok. Photograph: Athit Perawongmetha/Reuters Full story: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/sep/11/air-con-a-fridge-and-sofa-thaksin-shinawatras-vvip-prison-life-in-thailand -- The Guardian 2023-09-11 - 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

Central Pattana launches huge condo project in Phuket By Peter Roche PHOTO: Central Pattana The investment and retail property development firm Central Pattana is launching one of the largest condo development projects in Phuket. The development will be located near Central Phuket Floresta, opposite the Central Festival shopping Centre. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306262-central-pattana-launches-huge-condo-project-in-phuket/

Disgraced police sacked, HK hammered by record rain : Tim Newton Today - Sep 11 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306260-disgraced-police-sacked-hk-hammered-by-record-rain-tim-newton-today-sep-11/

Thailand News - Torrential record rains have devastated Hong Kong and southern China, a crane collapses, killing one, in the Asoke district of Bangkok, 6 police have been sacked in Pathum Thani 'kamnan' shooting incident, US President Biden visits Vietnam for a one day charm offensive, the Pattaya Floating Market set to re-open tomorrow, a by-election in Rayong shows a strong win, again, for Move Forward Party Tim Newton Today is a daily take on Thai and regional news and issues of interest to expats and foreign tourists.

Over 500 riders take part in Tha Sadet cycling event By Online Reporter On Sunday (Sept 10) Rajabhakti Park in the Hua Hin played host to over 500 cyclists for the “Cycling Local Tour, Enjoying Breeze, Nature, and History @Tha Sadet” event. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306254-over-500-riders-take-part-in-tha-sadet-cycling-event/