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Thai schools to shift lessons online amid severe air pollution threat by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Schools in Thailand may transition to online classes if fine dust pollution reaches critical levels, according to the Thai Education Ministry. Teachers are advised to monitor students’ health as PM2.5 haze pollution affects several provinces, including Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348859-thai-schools-to-shift-lessons-online-amid-severe-air-pollution-threat/

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Schools in Thailand may transition to online classes if fine dust pollution reaches critical levels, according to the Thai Education Ministry. Teachers are advised to monitor students’ health as PM2.5 haze pollution affects several provinces, including Bangkok. Siripong Angkasakulkiat from the Education Ministry stated yesterday, January 14, that Minister Permpoon Chidchob urged the creation of appropriate plans to organise classes in schools impacted by fine dust and cold weather. Siripong noted that low temperatures and wind conditions tend to trap fine dust particles, increasing PM2.5 levels in many areas, which significantly affects schools. The surge in fine dust particles raises the risk of respiratory issues among children, with symptoms including clogged nostrils, red eyes, and fever. Additional symptoms such as sleeplessness and snoring can hinder students’ learning abilities. Schools are instructed to limit outdoor activities to reduce exposure to air pollution. Activities to be halted include morning assemblies, outdoor sports, and scout training. Schools experiencing high PM2.5 levels should conduct online classes or make necessary arrangements to minimise exposure. Some schools have already taken steps to mitigate fine dust exposure by installing dust control equipment, ventilation fans, and water sprays, as well as educating students about the health risks posed by haze. “These initiatives allow students to reach their full learning potential in a safer environment during the pollution crisis.” Photo courtesy of Thai PBS World The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA)’s air quality monitoring centre, AirBKK, reported that 70 areas in the capital exceeded the 37.5 microgrammes per cubic metre (µg/m³) safety threshold yesterday. Suchatchavee Suwansawas, Deputy Democrat Party leader, suggested the BMA implement a low emission zone (LEZ) in 16 inner-city districts to tackle air pollution. His proposal covers 130 square kilometres, including Phra Nakhon, Pomprap Sattruphai, Pathumwan, Samphanthawong, Dusit, Ratchathewi, Phaya Thai, Sathon, Bang Rak, and Yannawa districts, reported Bangkok Post. In a Facebook post, Suchatchavee stated that this measure would lead to cleaner air. The policy would charge drivers of fossil-fuel vehicles to enter the zone, exempting electric vehicle drivers. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-15

Forks of fury: Woman seeks justice after nightspot stabbing drama by Petch Petpailin Photo via Hatyai Focus A Thai woman is seeking justice after being accused by a group of nearly 10 women of pouring water over them before they attacked and stabbed her in the back with a fork at a nightclub in the southern province of Songkhla. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348856-forks-of-fury-woman-seeks-justice-after-nightspot-stabbing-drama/

Photo via Hatyai Focus by Petch Petpailin A Thai woman is seeking justice after being accused by a group of nearly 10 women of pouring water over them before they attacked and stabbed her in the back with a fork at a nightclub in the southern province of Songkhla. The 24 year old victim, Tar, brought the matter to Channel 7 after the police failed to update her complaint. The incident occurred around 10pm on January 4 at a nightclub near Chalathat Beach in Songkhla. Tar told the media that she had visited the entertainment venue with her friends, arriving around 10pm. The assault took place shortly afterwards. Tar explained that one of the women, whose table was near hers, approached her and accused her of pouring water over their table. Tar insisted on her innocence, suggesting that the woman had the wrong person. Tar attempted to clarify the misunderstanding but the woman and her friends refused to listen. They proceeded to attack her in a group until security guards intervened. Photo via Hatyai Focus However, instead of taking action against the attackers, the guards ejected Tar from the venue and failed to offer her any assistance, even though she was left with wounds and bruises. The attack continued outside the nightclub, where the group followed Tar and assaulted her further. According to Tar, she sustained a serious wound to her forehead, a torn left ear, and injuries to her head from having her hair pulled. She later discovered that she had also been stabbed in the back with a fork. Tar reported the brutal assault to Mueang Songkhla Police Station but none of the attackers have been summoned for questioning or faced legal consequences. Photo via Hatyai Focus Channel 7 reported that all the women involved in the group were unemployed. They reportedly frequent several nightclubs in the area and are known for assaulting other patrons. Some bars have allegedly banned them due to the damage they cause to furniture and utensils during their rampages. As of now, officers at Mueang Songkhla Police Station have remained silent and have not provided any updates on the case. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-15

Thai-ing up rates: BoT bosses feel heat over 2% cap warning by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of the Bank of Thailand Bank of Thailand (BoT) bosses are under fire after warnings from the top brass at the National Economic and Social Development Council that their key policy rate should not breach the 2% mark. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348853-thai-ing-up-rates-bot-bosses-feel-heat-over-2-cap-warning/

Picture courtesy of the Bank of Thailand by Bob Scott Bank of Thailand (BoT) bosses are under fire after warnings from the top brass at the National Economic and Social Development Council that their key policy rate should not breach the 2% mark. BoT chief advisor Supavud Saichuea insisted keeping the lid on interest rates is crucial, given the country’s inflation target and sluggish GDP growth. Speaking at a high-profile seminar hosted by the Kiatnakin Phatra Financial Group, Supavud dished out some cold, hard numbers. “With inflation set between 1-3%, we shouldn’t see rates topping 2%. The pundit is all for a real policy rate hovering between 0-1%, matching the GDP growth rate that’s struggling to creep past 3%. “Back in the day, 2007 to 2014, to be precise, both inflation and real policy rates played nice at around 2%, while GDP strutted its stuff at 3.5%.” Policy rate cut But the financial heatwave of 2024 saw inflation plummet to a chilly 0.4%, with experts forecasting it to climb back to a comfy 2% by year’s end. Hitting the central bank’s nerve, Supavud hinted that a policy rate cut could be in the cards. “The central bank’s strong monetary policy stance is about preparing for stormy economic weather ahead. However, putting off rate adjustments while waiting for clearer signals might just spell trouble for our economy and borrowers alike.” The potential consequences of a rate standoff have Supavud cautious about economic downturns later this year, amid global uncertainties from none other than US President-elect Donald Trump and his curveball policies. “With external forces in play, achieving a 3% GDP growth target is looking like a tall order.” Trump’s so-called ‘2.0 policies,’ notably his tariffs, are expected to stir the pot, aggravating trade tensions between the US and China, reported Bangkok Post. Supavud foresees this adding a layer of anxiety for Thailand, as exports might feel the pinch in late 2025. His advice? Thailand and its agile businesses need to pivot their strategies pronto. On a brighter note, while tensions rise, there might be a silver lining in the shape of opportunities in Thailand’s export trade with the Chinese giant, especially within the bustling food and services sectors, said Supavud. “We’re outpacing our neighbours with food exports to China.” Meanwhile, the ever-reliable services sector, bolstered by tourism, remains a cornerstone of the Thai economy. The government’s investment in casino-based entertainment complexes may pump up tourism, investment, and jobs in the longer haul. Yet Supavud urges caution, reminding leaders to keep an eye on potential social ramifications. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-15

Chinese couple beg for help in Bangkok amid son’s trafficking fears by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of South China Morning Post A distraught Chinese couple has made a desperate plea outside the Chinese embassy in Bangkok, seeking help to find their missing son, suspected to be a victim of human trafficking in Southeast Asia. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348851-chinese-couple-beg-for-help-in-bangkok-amid-son’s-trafficking-fears/

Photo courtesy of South China Morning Post by Puntid Tantivangphaisal A distraught Chinese couple has made a desperate plea outside the Chinese embassy in Bangkok, seeking help to find their missing son, suspected to be a victim of human trafficking in Southeast Asia. The couple, 64 year old Sun Maoxing and his wife 60 year old Wang Weiju, travelled from China’s Shandong province to Thailand on their first-ever trip abroad, hoping to locate their only son, 32 year old Sun Baochao. “He is our only son. We cannot live without him. Please save my son.” Sun Baochao’s last known contact with his parents was during his mother’s funeral in April last year. Since then, the family has only received sporadic messages via WeChat, including vague requests for money. Wang also reported receiving three calls from her son’s account but the caller was a woman speaking broken Mandarin. Thai police confirmed Sun arrived in Bangkok on January 1, taking a taxi from Suvarnabhumi Airport but no further trace of him has been found. Embassy staff have requested the couple submit case documents but offered no updates. “The embassy said they’d contact me when there’s news, but they have nothing right now.” The case underscores the growing crisis of human trafficking in Southeast Asia, where victims are often lured by fake job offers and coerced into working in scam operations, especially along the Myanmar border. Their story parallels that of 40 year old Wang Yaxin who is searching for his missing 28 year old cousin last located in Thailand’s Tak province. Wang fears his cousin fell victim to a loan scam. The issue recently made headlines after Chinese actor Wang Xing was rescued from a Myanmar scam compound. Wang, like many victims, was lured under false pretences, held captive, and forced into fraudulent schemes, reported Hindustan Times. The Thailand-Myanmar border region, particularly areas like Mae Sot in Tak province, has become a hotspot for such criminal activities. Criminal syndicates exploit these border areas to traffic individuals into scam operations, often involving forced labour and severe mistreatment. Reports indicate that over 6,000 individuals, including approximately 3,900 Chinese nationals, are held captive in Myanmar’s human trafficking networks, enduring physical and psychological abuse, according to The Star. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-15

Tourists' Airport Walkway 'Boat' Stunt Sparks Safety Concerns video screenshot A playful TikTok video featuring two foreign tourists pretending to paddle a boat while seated on a moving walkway at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport has gone viral. While the antics drew laughs and numerous likes and shares online, many netizens have raised safety concerns. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348849-tourists-airport-walkway-boat-stunt-sparks-safety-concerns/

video screenshot A playful TikTok video featuring two foreign tourists pretending to paddle a boat while seated on a moving walkway at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport has gone viral. While the antics drew laughs and numerous likes and shares online, many netizens have raised safety concerns. The clip, posted by user "svenvandijk21," shows the two tourists humourously staging a boat trip from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, complete with paddling gestures. It quickly gained traction, captivating audiences with its light-heartedness. However, amid the laughter, several online commenters reminded viewers of the potential dangers of such stunts, urging against imitating the behaviour on airport walkways, reported Daily News. -- 2025-01-15

Thailand Sets Sights on Nuclear Power Integration by 2037 File photo for reference only Thailand is gearing up for a transformative shift in its energy landscape with plans to integrate nuclear power by 2037, focusing on the development of small modular reactors (SMRs). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348847-thailand-sets-sights-on-nuclear-power-integration-by-2037/

File photo for reference only Thailand is gearing up for a transformative shift in its energy landscape with plans to integrate nuclear power by 2037, focusing on the development of small modular reactors (SMRs). This move is part of the country's upcoming Power Development Plan (PDP), which intends to harness cleaner energy sources to meet its future energy demands. However, the rollout of this plan is currently facing delays. Small modular reactors are compact nuclear power units capable of generating up to 300 megawatts each, about a third of the capacity of traditional nuclear reactors. They are being considered as a viable option for Thailand due to their smaller size, potentially increased safety, and flexibility in deployment. The forthcoming PDP, which outlines Thailand's energy strategy from 2024 through 2037, has yet to receive official endorsement. According to the Royal Gazette, a collaborative effort between the Energy Regulatory Commission and the Office of Atoms for Peace is anticipated, focusing on nuclear safety and energy grid security. The two agencies are poised to tackle essential issues, such as legal frameworks and technological challenges associated with SMRs. An unnamed energy official has indicated that government endorsement of the SMR project is unlikely until these agencies conclude their groundwork, offering a clearer picture of nuclear energy's role in Thailand's future. Currently, the PDP outlines plans for the development of two SMRs, each contributing 300 megawatts, to become operational towards the end of the planning period. These reactors may potentially be managed by the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand. However, the plans for SMRs could shift if alternative clean fuel technologies become available, offering similarly low-carbon electricity solutions. The primary thrust of the PDP is to significantly boost the use of clean energy. By 2037, Thailand aims for renewable energy to account for 51% of its energy mix, up from 20% at the close of 2023. In contrast, reliance on coal and gas is expected to decrease sharply to 48%, compared to nearly 80% in early 2024. The remaining 1% will be provided by nuclear power and emergent low-carbon energy solutions. Despite its ambitions, the PDP has encountered delays partly due to disagreements among energy experts. Critics argue that the current renewable energy targets may not sufficiently support Thailand’s anti-carbon emission goals, and the proposed energy demand projections impose a considerable financial burden on the government. As discussions continue, the nation watches closely to see how Thailand will navigate the complex journey towards cleaner and more sustainable energy solutions, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-01-15

Thai Casinos: Haven or Hazard for ‘Grey’ Chinese Money? File photo for reference only //Wikipedia ANALYSIS Thailand sits at a crossroads as debates swirl around the potential opening of entertainment complexes and casinos, with looming concerns over their possible misuse as venues for money laundering by ‘grey’ Chinese businesses. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348845-thai-casinos-haven-or-hazard-for-‘grey’-chinese-money/

File photo for reference only //Wikipedia ANALYSIS Thailand sits at a crossroads as debates swirl around the potential opening of entertainment complexes and casinos, with looming concerns over their possible misuse as venues for money laundering by ‘grey’ Chinese businesses. People’s MP Rangsiman Rome voiced these concerns yesterday, raising the spectre of illicit activities seeping into Thailand's gaming industry. At the heart of the matter is the possibility that these establishments could act as conduits for laundering money from illicit activities such as call-centre scams, online gambling, and cross-border drug operations. The term 'grey' Chinese refers to businesspersons whose operations straddle the hazy line between legal and illicit, often finding creative solutions to mask the origins of their funds. Rangsiman Rome. Picture courtesy: Thai Post Rangsiman’s critique is timely, as the Thai government embarks on a legislative journey to establish entertainment and gaming hubs, a move intended to boost tourism and generate significant revenue. These plans, however, do not yet include robust measures to prevent illegal activities. The absence of rigorous regulations and monitoring processes could inadvertently transform Thailand’s casinos into attractive destinations for shady operators looking to ‘clean’ their money. There’s also the question of competition in the region. Countries like Japan, particularly with their casinos in Osaka, alongside Macau and Singapore, have already established themselves as global gaming centres. They attract not only tourists but also substantial international investment. Thailand’s allure must be balanced carefully to ensure it draws legitimate business without courting unwanted illegal activities. This legislative push comes as Thailand’s Pheu Thai-led government weighs the economic boost against the potential reputational risks. There’s promise in the planned development of these entertainment complexes, which are expected to bring billions of Thai Baht into the economy and create jobs. However, transparency and firm regulations are crucial. Authorities must develop strategies to deflect any potential infiltration by illicit entities. If casinos are to open their doors, they should do so under strict scrutiny, with policies that include comprehensive background checks, financial monitoring, and collaboration with international agencies to track suspicious capital flow. Ultimately, if managed ineffectively, the lure of quick gains through casinos could become a double-edged sword. While they promise economic prosperity and global allure, they also pose significant risks if not tightly regulated. In a region with notorious financial crime challenges, Thailand needs to ensure that its future casinos don’t become easy prey for those looking to exploit legal loopholes. This is not just about casino chips on the table, but a decisive moment for Thailand to define its stance on illicit money flows within its borders, write Thai Newsroom Reporters. -- 2025-01-15

Pattaya Police Arrest Nepali Duo in Fake Dollar Scheme Picture courtesy: Khaosod In a swift operation, Pattaya immigration police dismantled a counterfeit currency operation, arresting two Nepali nationals accused of defrauding victims with a fake dollar scheme. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348829-pattaya-police-arrest-nepali-duo-in-fake-dollar-scheme/

Picture courtesy: Khaosod In a swift operation, Pattaya immigration police dismantled a counterfeit currency operation, arresting two Nepali nationals accused of defrauding victims with a fake dollar scheme. The suspects, masquerading as tourists, allegedly lured their targets into buying a special chemical, claiming it could produce genuine US dollar bills. Operating from a rented room in Nong Prue, Bang Lamung, they targeted both locals and foreigners in Pattaya. Picture courtesy: Khaosod Authorities, acting on a tip-off about foreign fraudsters in the area, raided the accommodation. There, they discovered black paper resembling dollar banknotes and printing materials. The suspects, identified only as Som and Ghanendra, were found to have entered Thailand illegally from Cambodia, lacking proper travel documentation. Police confiscated a substantial amount of the doctored "black dollars," purportedly worth $100 each, which the duo intended to use in future scams. Initial charges under the Immigration Act have been filed, and the case will be further investigated for potential currency-related offences. Victims of such scams are urged to contact Immigration Division 3 for assistance in the ongoing investigation and prosecution of these perpetrators, reported Khaosod. -- 2025-01-15

Baht bus brawl: Phuket driver and foreign man row over fare By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ A physical altercation broke out between a Thai baht bus driver and a foreign man outside a hotel in Phuket after the foreigner refused to pay the agreed transport fare. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348815-baht-bus-brawl-phuket-driver-and-foreign-man-row-over-fare/

Phuket tourists smash wheel lock with rock, sparking outrage - video By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Thairath Foreign tourists in Phuket sparked a social media firestorm after blatantly disregarding Thai law by smashing a police wheel lock with a rock in broad daylight. The brazen act occurred outside a shopping mall on Rat Uthit 200 Pi Road in Patong today, January 14. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348803-phuket-tourists-smash-wheel-lock-with-rock-sparking-outrage-video/

Thailand Eases Long-Term Visa Conditions to Draw Wealthy Foreigners and Digital Nomads File photo courtesy: National News Bureau of Thailand In a strategic shift, Thailand has relaxed the conditions for its long-term resident visas (LTR visas), targeting affluent foreigners and digital nomads as part of a drive to boost the nation’s economy. The Cabinet on Tuesday sanctioned these changes, aiming to attract a more diverse group of foreign residents. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348804-thailand-eases-long-term-visa-conditions-to-draw-wealthy-foreigners-and-digital-nomads/

to continue: Thailand Live Wednesday 15 January 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1348812-thailand-live-wednesday-15-january-2025/

Picture courtesy of The Daily Mail Bucket list gone wrong: Swansea gran’s naked Bangkok escapade By Bob Scott A 61 year old grandmother from Swansea found herself stark naked and wandering her hotel, allegedly after downing a tainted bucket of booze in bustling Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348805-bucket-list-gone-wrong-swansea-gran’s-naked-bangkok-escapade/

Thailand Eases Long-Term Visa Conditions to Draw Wealthy Foreigners and Digital Nomads File photo courtesy: National News Bureau of Thailand In a strategic shift, Thailand has relaxed the conditions for its long-term resident visas (LTR visas), targeting affluent foreigners and digital nomads as part of a drive to boost the nation’s economy. The Cabinet on Tuesday sanctioned these changes, aiming to attract a more diverse group of foreign residents. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348804-thailand-eases-long-term-visa-conditions-to-draw-wealthy-foreigners-and-digital-nomads/

Reference file photo courtesy: National News Bureau of Thailand In a strategic shift, Thailand has relaxed the conditions for its long-term resident visas (LTR visas), targeting affluent foreigners and digital nomads as part of a drive to boost the nation’s economy. The Cabinet on Tuesday sanctioned these changes, aiming to attract a more diverse group of foreign residents. Streamlining for Foreign Workers The Cabinet decision follows a proposal from the Office of the Board of Investment (BOI), which also recommended scrapping overlapping Smart visa categories in favour of the more versatile LTR visas. Tailored to appeal to high-income earners and remote workers, this move represents a significant shift in Thailand’s immigration policy. One of the most significant adjustments involves relaxing income requirements for digital nomads working in Thailand for foreign employers. The annual revenue requirement for employers has been significantly reduced from approximately 5.4 billion Thai Baht (US$150 million) to 1.8 billion Thai Baht (US$50 million) over three years. This change recognises the evolving landscape of remote work and broadens the scope for foreign talent to contribute economically while residing in Thailand. Appealing to Global Citizens For ‘wealthy global citizens’—an enticing category for high-net-worth individuals—the Cabinet has axed the prerequisite annual income of about 2.9 million Thai Baht (US$80,000) over two years before one can apply for an LTR visa. This move acknowledges that some investment-ready candidates were previously disqualified due to income thresholds, despite their financial contributions aligning with Thailand’s economic goals. Family-Friendly Adjustments Previously, LTR visas imposed a limit on dependents, capped at four, which has now been lifted. By doing so, the Thai government aims to be more inclusive, aligning LTR visa policies with other visa types that have no such restrictions, thereby making Thailand a more family-friendly destination for prospective residents. Refocusing the Visa Structure The Cabinet’s decision also involves phasing out most Smart visa categories, a move designed to eliminate redundancy and promote the LTR visa as the flagship option for affluent migrants and entrepreneurs. The Smart visa for start-up founders, however, will remain intact, reflecting the government’s commitment to nurturing innovation and new business ventures. In summary, these key revisions in Thailand's LTR visa programme are poised to welcome affluent expatriates and skilled remote workers into its fold, further integrating them into the national economy. By enhancing visa flexibility and aligning it with contemporary work trends, Thailand seeks to cement its status as a premier destination for both leisure and business, inviting global citizens to experience life in the Land of Smiles, reported The Nation. -- 2025-01-14

Isaan tamarind vendor fined for nude model marketing tactics by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ ข่าวบ้านผือ - Ban Phue News Police fined a sweet tamarind vendor in the Isaan province of Udon Thani 2,500 baht for using explicit photos of scantily clad and nude models to promote his shop. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348777-isaan-tamarind-vendor-fined-for-nude-model-marketing-tactics/

Photo via Facebook/ ข่าวบ้านผือ - Ban Phue News by Petch Petpailin Police fined a sweet tamarind vendor in the Isaan province of Udon Thani 2,500 baht for using explicit photos of scantily clad and nude models to promote his shop. A medical professional from Ban Phue Hospital in Udon Thani urged officers from Ban Phue Police Station to take action against the vendor, who advertised his shop with explicit images. The vendor operated his business from a pickup and placed large explicit photographs around his vehicle. Officers arrived at the hospital and discovered the mobile sweet tamarind shop parked in the hospital’s car park. Each photograph of the nude and provocative models was censored with tape covering their breasts and genitals. In addition to those images, there was a sign displaying a price list and details of a lucky draw promotion for regular customers, offering a gold accessory as a prize. The vendor and wife, whose names have not been disclosed, were taken to the police station for questioning. The male vendor admitted to sourcing the explicit images online, printing them on vinyl signs, and attaching them to his vehicle himself. Photo via Facebook/ สรยุทธ สุทัศนะจินดา กรรมกรข่าว The vendor claimed he had no malicious intent and was merely trying to attract customers. He explained that the images were displayed for only a few days before his arrest and expressed his willingness to remove them if his actions were deemed illegal. The vendor explained that he also introduced a lucky draw promotion, offering a gold reward to his customers. For every 500 baht spent on sweet tamarind, customers would receive a coupon to participate in the draw. The prize was a gold ring worth 3,000 baht. Photo via Facebook/ สรยุทธ สุทัศนะจินดา กรรมกรข่าว He acknowledged that some customers previously complained about the explicit images but he dismissed their concerns, believing the pictures were merely humorous. His wife admitted that she had warned him about the images but he insisted on continuing with his sales strategy. Officers charged the vendor with violating Section 388 of the Criminal Code, which pertains to committing obscene acts in public and carries a maximum fine of 5,000 baht. In this case, police fined the vendor 2,500 baht and ordered him to remove all of the explicit photographs. Source: [source name + source link] -- 2025-01-14