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Thai thief’s pale for love: Beauty heist and boozy escapade by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ ศูนย์แจ้งข่าวบุรีรัมย์ Police arrested a Thai man who stole 120 packs of skin-whitening products from a 7-Eleven convenience store in the Isaan province of Surin so his girlfriend would have radiant beauty like a superstar. He also stole vodka from a Lotus’s supermarket to throw parties with friends. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305672-thai-thief’s-pale-for-love-beauty-heist-and-boozy-escapade/

Jealous wife takes knife in the back for unfaithful husband in karaoke bar brawl by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ ข่าวGMM25 A jealous wife tried to drag her husband from a local karaoke bar in the northern province of Chaing Mai but ended up being stabbed in the back as a brawl broke out in the establishment. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305671-jealous-wife-takes-knife-in-the-back-for-unfaithful-husband-in-karaoke-bar-brawl/

Thai man arrested for production of pornography livestream on Chinese app by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ สืบนครบาล IDMB Police swooped to arrest a Thai interpreter working on a porn set in Thailand that was livestreamed via a Chinese application. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305667-thai-man-arrested-for-production-of-pornography-livestream-on-chinese-app/

Tourism safety concerns: Thai Government urged to reassure China byf Alex Morgan Photo: Yang Wanli/China Daily The Thai administration is being prodded to collaborate with Beijing prior to implementing a visa-exemption scheme for Chinese tourists, as the country’s image suffers due to its portrayal as a transit hub for fraudulent activities in recent Chinese media, hindering tourism safety. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305666-tourism-safety-concerns-thai-government-urged-to-reassure-china/

The Thai administration is being prodded to collaborate with Beijing prior to implementing a visa-exemption scheme for Chinese tourists, as the country’s image suffers due to its portrayal as a transit hub for fraudulent activities in recent Chinese media, hindering tourism safety. A Chinese film titled ‘No More Bets’, which revolves around scammer networks in Southeast Asia, grossed a whopping US$505 million in its initial five weeks. The thriller topped China’s box office in August, simultaneously souring Chinese sentiment towards travelling to Southeast Asia, according to Surawat Akaraworamat, vice-president of the Tourism Council of Thailand. Since March, the region has been witnessing a slump in Chinese tourists, triggered by an incident where Chinese visitors were abducted in Thailand and transported to a neighbouring country. This sentiment was exacerbated by numerous Chinese online content creators highlighting the risks associated with travelling in Thailand, adversely impacting tourism safety in the country. by Alex Morgan Photo: Yang Wanli/China Daily Full story: https://thethaiger.com/news/business/thai-government-urged-to-reassure-china-amid-tourism-safety-concerns -- The Thaiger 2023-09-06 - 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 water management: ONWR takes action on shortages, flooding, and wastewater by Mitch Connor Surasri Kidtimonton. Photo: Rick Bajornas, dam.media.un.org Phuket’s enduring issues of water shortages, flooding and inadequate wastewater management are set to be addressed by the Office of the National Water Resources (ONWR). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305665-phuket-water-management-onwr-takes-action-on-shortages-flooding-and-wastewater/

Chinese ambassador backs visa perks to boost tourism by Mitch Connor Han Zhiqiang. Photo: escap.china-mission.gov.cn Han Zhiqiang, the Chinese Ambassador to Thailand, has expressed support for the impending visa privileges aimed towards Chinese tourists. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305663-chinese-ambassador-backs-visa-perks-to-boost-tourism

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Wednesday 6 September 2023 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305664-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-wednesday-6-september-2023/

HM King swore in Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and cabinet ministers in the new coalition government made up of 11 parties yesterday. The ceremony came after weeks of delay due to a disagreement over the formation of a coalition initially formed by the winner of the May election, the Move Forward party. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and his government will deliver a policy statement to parliament on Monday. A Judicial Commission will investigate Criminal Court judges who interfered with police attempts to arrest a Senator in connection with a major drug trafficking bust last year. Police applied for an arrest warrant for the Senator after he and his son were linked with several arrested drug traffickers from Myanmar. However, the arrest warrant was cancelled on the day it was approved, the court said the senator did not appear to be a flight risk. The National Anti-Corruption Commission says more than 1200 police stations across the country failed to pass integrity and transparency tests.The chairman of the anti corruption commission and a police general said The score means urgent improvements are needed in the police force Plans are being drawn up by the local authority to solve water shortages, flooding and poor wastewater management in Phuket.. The island faces an annual water shortage of about 25.5 million cubic meters mainly during the dry season. Phuket also experiences severe flooding during the wet season. Thailands latest satellite the 425 kilogram THEOS-2, has arrived in the U.S ready for launch scheduled for 5th October, The new Satellite will be used for cartography and planning for agriculture, food and water management, natural resources, ecosystems, and city planning, Around The Region: India’ was buzzing with speculation yesterday over rumoured plans to scrap official usage of the country’s English name, after a state-issued invite sent to world leaders referred to the country’s name as “Bharat”. The weather: Cloud and thunderstorms in central and northern Thailand Clearer in the south. Chiang Mai and the north: thunderstorms 30C Bangkok:, thunder showers, 32C Pattaya, partly cloudy, rain this afternoon 32C Phuket and the south: partly cloudy, rain this afternoon: 30C Hua Hin: Bright, partly cloudy, rain this afternoon: 33C. 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 2023-09-06 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

Han Zhiqiang, the Chinese Ambassador to Thailand, has expressed support for the impending visa privileges aimed towards Chinese tourists. These measures are being considered by both governments, with the intention of bolstering Chinese tourism and investment in their respective countries ahead of the approaching peak season. Han voiced his endorsement during an orientation for the 18th Mandarin for Government Officers Workshop. This event was organised by the Thai-Chinese Cultural Relationship Council (TCCRC) and the King Prajadhipok Institute. Among the attendees was Pol Lt Gen Pitak Jarusombat, who serves as the deputy president of the TCCRC. These visa-related decisions may prove beneficial, as China has observed an influx of tourists following the relaxation of its own immigration measures. Han noted that the number of individuals, particularly Thai citizens, applying for the varied types of Chinese visas has seen a steady climb. by Mitch Connor Han Zhiqiang. Photo: escap.china-mission.gov.cn Full story: https://thethaiger.com/news/national/chinese-ambassador-backs-visa-perks-to-boost-thai-tourism-and-investment -- The Thaiger 2023-09-06 - 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

Anutin Thanks PM for Trust, Advocates Medical Cannabis for Health Picture: Thai Rath Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Sathaporn for entrusting him with significant responsibilities, emphasizing the commitment to advancing medical cannabis for the well-being of the public. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305662-anutin-thanks-pm-for-trust-advocates-medical-cannabis-for-health/

Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Sathaporn for entrusting him with significant responsibilities, emphasizing the commitment to advancing medical cannabis for the well-being of the public. On September 5, at the Government House, Anutin, also the head of the Bhumjaithai Party, led the ministers from his party to join the government. He highlighted the party's dedication to serving the Prime Minister to the best of their abilities. The Bhumjaithai Party will officially join the cabinet on September 7, following an initial meeting of the Council of Ministers, reported Thai Rath. Picture: Thai Rath Anutin further revealed that they have finalized their policy statement for the parliament and have engaged in productive consultations with the Pheu Thai Party, assuring alignment with the government's broader policy framework. Picture: Thai Rath Responding to media inquiries about the direction for the cannabis policy, Anutin reiterated its focus on medical and health benefits. When questioned about the Green Line electric train, falling under the purview of the Ministry of Transport, Anutin emphasized the need for factual evaluations, vowing to take necessary measures to avoid public inconvenience. Top Picture: Thai Rath -- ASEAN NOW 2023-09-06 - 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

Thai Police bust call centre gang linked to triple-murder case by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Yesterday, Thailand’s national police force made significant progress in cracking down on an infamous call centre gang, implicated in a shocking triple-murder case that sent shockwaves through the community of Pak Nam. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305661-thai-police-bust-call-centre-gang-linked-to-triple-murder-case/

Palm oil factory fire in Patthalung causes over 3 million baht in damages by Samantha Rose Illustration: Factory being engulfed in a fire. Photo: Freepik A palm oil factory in Patthalung was engulfed in flames, resulting in losses exceeding 3 million baht. The blaze required assistance from several water trucks to bring it under control. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305659-palm-oil-factory-fire-in-patthalung-causes-over-3-million-baht-in-damages/

Assessing the impact of a strengthening US Dollar on Srettha’s administration By Arun Saronchai In the realm of global finance, exchange rates serve as a crucial indicator of economic stability and prospects. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305658-assessing-the-impact-of-a-strengthening-us-dollar-on-srettha’s-administration/

In the realm of global finance, exchange rates serve as a crucial indicator of economic stability and prospects. The current juncture witnesses the Thai economy confronting a notable shift in the strength of the US dollar (USD) against the Thai baht (THB), a development driven by escalating interest rates in the United States. Impact The foundation of a strengthening USD lies within the complex interplay of global financial variables, with the adjustment of interest rates by the US Federal Reserve emerging as a defining factor. Heightened interest rates in the US serve as a magnet for international investors in pursuit of enhanced yields, thereby triggering an increased demand for the USD. Consequently, the USD appreciates relative to other currencies, presenting intricate economic consequences. The dollar’s ascent bears direct implications for Thailand’s export sector, traditionally a cornerstone of its economy. A stronger USD and a weaker baht means that local manufacturers may have to spend more acquiring needed resources within their supply chain. Thai exports could then become more expensive for international consumers, dampening the demand for locally produced goods. Inversely, a weak baht compared to the US dollar can be favorable for tourism in Thailand due to its impact on the purchasing power of foreign visitors. By Arun Saronchai Full story: https://www.thaienquirer.com/50657/assessing-the-impact-of-a-strengthening-us-dollar-on-sretthas-administration/ -- THAI ENQUIRER 2023-09-06 - 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

Electrical Poles in Middle of Road Pose Danger to Khon Kaen Residents Residents of Khon Kaen province are raising concerns over high-voltage electrical poles positioned directly in the middle of an unlit road. This alarming situation extends for nearly 200 meters and relevant authorities have quickly initiated corrective actions. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305654-electrical-poles-in-middle-of-road-pose-danger-to-khon-kaen-residents/

Arrest Warrant Issued for Former Pattaya Mayor Over Condo Approval Case On September 5th, reports emerged that a court in Rayong, responsible for corruption cases, had issued an arrest warrant for Mr. Itthipol Khunpluem. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305653-arrest-warrant-issued-for-former-pattaya-mayor-over-condo-approval-case/

Truck Collision Causes Several Injuries on Elevated Bridge Picture: Siam Rath On September 5th, CCTV footage captured a dramatic accident involving a 6-wheel truck veering off its lane, smashing into the rear of a trailer before swerving and hitting a van transporting employees. The incident resulted in multiple injuries. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305652-truck-collision-causes-several-injuries-on-elevated-bridge/

Cyanide murder mastermind loses defamation case by Neill Fronde Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The Criminal Court has dismissed a defamation lawsuit filed by Sararat Rangsivuthaphan, known as Am, the alleged mastermind behind several murder cases involving cyanide, against Rapee Chumnanruen, who coordinated on behalf of the victims. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305651-cyanide-murder-mastermind-loses-defamation-case/

The Criminal Court has dismissed a defamation lawsuit filed by Sararat Rangsivuthaphan, known as Am, the alleged mastermind behind several murder cases involving cyanide, against Rapee Chumnanruen, who coordinated on behalf of the victims. The court’s decision came after evidence was presented proving Rapee’s statements made during a television interview about Am’s deception of authorities were true. Am’s lawyer, Thanicha Eaksuwan, or Lawyer Pach, stated prior to the court hearing that if the case was dismissed, they would appeal. However, if the court accepted the case and issued an order, and Rapee failed to appear for the hearing, she would serve a court order to his residence. She was confident in her evidence against Rapee, who admitted that the person in the clip was indeed him. Lawyer Pach revealed that it was now in the stage of determining whether the actions constituted an offence or not. This would be another stage where the court would first have to accept the charges for further consideration. by Neill Fronde TOP Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Full story: https://thethaiger.com/hot-news/crime/cyanide-murder-mastermind-loses-defamation-case-lawyer-announces-appeal-with-new-evidence -- The Thaiger 2023-09-06 - 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

PM Buys Luxury Van Out Of Own Pocket By Thai Newsroom Reporters Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin arrived at Government House in his new Lexus LM350H Executive luxury van. Photo Naewna PRIME MINISTER SRETTHA Thavisin has spent some money out of his own pocket to buy a luxury van for use, either official or private. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305650-pm-buys-luxury-van-out-of-own-pocket/

PRIME MINISTER SRETTHA Thavisin has spent some money out of his own pocket to buy a luxury van for use, either official or private. The newly-named prime minister has recently purchased the Lexus LM350H Executive as a 7.59 million baht, privately-owned vehicle in which he is expected to go to the provinces and visit people. However, the prime minister’s four-seat, black Lexus van fitted with first-class amenities on board is not known to be a bulletproof vehicle as yet. By Thai Newsroom Reporters TOP: Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin arrived at Government House in his new Lexus LM350H Executive luxury van. Photo Naewna Full story: https://thainewsroom.com/2023/09/05/pm-buys-luxury-van-out-of-own-pocket/ -- THAI NEWSROOM 2023-09-06 - 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

Suriya Puts Off Capping Bangkok Train Fares At 20 Baht Per Trip by TNR Staff Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungruangkit. Top photo: Amarin TV, photo: Naewna TRANSPORT Minister Suriya Jungrungruangkit said this afternoon (Sep. 5) the Pheu Thai campaign pledge to cap Bangkok electric train fares at 20 baht a trip is not being written in the coalition government’s policy statement to be delivered to Parliament but it could possibly be implemented in two years’ time, Naewna newspaper and Amarin TVsaid. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305648-suriya-puts-off-capping-bangkok-train-fares-at-20-baht-per-trip/

Pheu Thai Govt To Be Slammed If ‘Inmate’ Thaksin Allowed Out Of Jail For Long: Academic By Thai Newsroom Reporters Pheu Thai de facto boss Thaksin Shinawatra upon his arrival at Don Mueang Airport on Aug. 22, 2023. Photo: Sanook.com THE CONFIDENCE of the Pheu Thai-led government under Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin will be adversely affected if de facto party boss Thaksin Shinawatra continues to literally keep himself as a convicted inmate out of jail for longer than appropriate, according to a noted academic. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1305647-pheu-thai-govt-to-be-slammed-if-‘inmate’-thaksin-allowed-out-of-jail-for-long-academic/