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File photo courtesy: Thai Rath The News Broadcasting Council of Thailand and the Thai Broadcast Journalists Association have called for an ethics inquiry into Palang Pracharath Party leader Gen Prawit Wongsuwon’s alleged slapping of a reporter. The incident, which was captured on video last Friday, has stirred significant controversy and prompted demands for accountability. The president of NBCT, Supan Rakchuea, stated that the video shows Gen Prawit, a former deputy prime minister, slapping a female reporter on the head with his right hand. The reporter had asked him about the House's election of Pheu Thai Party leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra as the new prime minister. Rakchuea mentioned this isn't the first instance of such behaviour from Gen Prawit, highlighting the need for political ethics and protection of journalistic duties. The formal complaint refers to clauses 12 and 13 of the parliamentary code of conduct. Clause 12 requires MPs to respect others' rights and freedoms and refrain from insulting behaviour. Clause 13 prohibits threats or physical assaults by MPs during parliamentary activities or elsewhere. Penalties for violations include warnings, condemnation, or an apology before the House. Prawit's party, Palang Pracharath, is the third-largest coalition party, holding 40 MPs. However, the party faces internal conflicts. On Tuesday, the party’s secretary-general, Thamanat Prompow, announced the formation of an independent faction loyal to him. He claimed support from 29 MPs, speculating that the party would not reappoint him for a cabinet position due to his controversial past. Thamanat had served four years in an Australian prison for a 1994 heroin importation conviction. Journalists’ groups argue that politicians must be held to ethical standards, highlighting the importance of respecting the press's role in democracy. They urged politicians to abstain from hostile interactions and simply decline to comment when unwilling to answer questions. The outcome of the ethics inquiry could set a significant precedent for the treatment of journalists in Thailand. The News Broadcasting Council of Thailand and the Thai Broadcast Journalists Association have called for an ethics inquiry into Palang Pracharath Party leader Gen Prawit Wongsuwon’s alleged slapping of a reporter. The incident, which was captured on video last Friday, has stirred significant controversy and prompted demands for accountability. The president of NBCT, Supan Rakchuea, stated that the video shows Gen Prawit, a former deputy prime minister, slapping a female reporter on the head with his right hand. The reporter had asked him about the House's election of Pheu Thai Party leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra as the new prime minister. Rakchuea mentioned this isn't the first instance of such behaviour from Gen Prawit, highlighting the need for political ethics and protection of journalistic duties. The formal complaint refers to clauses 12 and 13 of the parliamentary code of conduct. Clause 12 requires MPs to respect others' rights and freedoms and refrain from insulting behaviour. Clause 13 prohibits threats or physical assaults by MPs during parliamentary activities or elsewhere. Penalties for violations include warnings, condemnation, or an apology before the House. Prawit's party, Palang Pracharath, is the third-largest coalition party, holding 40 MPs. However, the party faces internal conflicts. On Tuesday, the party’s secretary-general, Thamanat Prompow, announced the formation of an independent faction loyal to him. He claimed support from 29 MPs, speculating that the party would not reappoint him for a cabinet position due to his controversial past. Thamanat had served four years in an Australian prison for a 1994 heroin importation conviction. Journalists’ groups argue that politicians must be held to ethical standards, highlighting the importance of respecting the press's role in democracy. They urged politicians to abstain from hostile interactions and simply decline to comment when unwilling to answer questions. The outcome of the ethics inquiry could set a significant precedent for the treatment of journalists in Thailand, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-08-23 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thaksin Shinawatra: No political agreement was made to secure my return FILE - Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, center, arrives at Don Muang airport in Bangkok, Thailand, on Aug. 22, 2023. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit, File) Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra made his first public appearance post-pardon, quashing rumours of political agreements with rivals. Addressing over 1,400 attendees in Bangkok, he asserted, “There is no deal; no one dares do a deal with me.” Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336250-thaksin-shinawatra-no-political-agreement-was-made-to-secure-my-return/

FILE - Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, center, arrives at Don Muang airport in Bangkok, Thailand, on Aug. 22, 2023. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit, File) Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra made his first public appearance post-pardon, quashing rumours of political agreements with rivals. Addressing over 1,400 attendees in Bangkok, he asserted, “There is no deal; no one dares do a deal with me.” Thaksin's dramatic return last year saw an eight-year jail sentence, commuted to one year and culminating in his recent pardon. He avoided prison, staying in hospital and swiftly receiving parole. In his speech, Thaksin confidently stated that Thailand’s economic woes would not worsen, highlighting the capabilities of the current Pheu Thai government, headed by his daughter, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. He vigorously defended the party’s 450-billion-baht digital wallet scheme aimed at economic revitalisation. “We need to stimulate the economy as our country has grown slowly for a long time,” he emphasized, stressing the urgency, reported Bangkok Post. The forum, hosted by a local media group, offered Thaksin a platform for economic discourse, including cautionary suggestions of protectionism against low-cost Chinese imports to ensure fair competition. “We don’t dislike Chinese products, but we must find equality in competition,” he noted. Thaksin’s vision for addressing long-term economic issues also included tackling Thailand’s significant household and public debt. He advocated for restructuring initiatives and fostering collaboration between the government and the Bank of Thailand. “Thailand and its people are trapped in debt,” he explained, urging comprehensive action led by the finance ministry. In discussing potential economic policies, Thaksin emphasized the need for small protectionist measures to safeguard domestic industries without hindering international trade. His remarks reflect broader regional concerns, pushing for balanced free trade and local economic stability. Despite his significant influence, Thaksin clarified he seeks no political role. His daughter Paetongtarn faces the challenge of rejuvenating the economy amidst high household debt, sluggish exports, and rising living costs. As she finalizes her cabinet, Thaksin’s legacy and strategic insights are pivotal to Thailand’s political and economic future. -- 2024-08-23 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thaksin's advisor Phumtham tipped to be named defence minister Pictures courtesy: Thai Rath Speculation is mounting in Bangkok that Phumtham Wechayachai may soon be named Thailand's new defence minister. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336248-thaksins-advisor-phumtham-tipped-to-be-named-defence-minister/

Pictures courtesy: Thai Rath Speculation is mounting in Bangkok that Phumtham Wechayachai may soon be named Thailand's new defence minister. A close advisor to former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, Phumtham is currently serving as Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister. If appointed, he would replace the acting Defence Minister Sutin Khlungsang in a Cabinet reshuffle orchestrated by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Thaksin's daughter. The potential appointment of Phumtham, a civilian, signals a strategic move to bridge relations with military commanders. Assisting him possibly would be retired General Nattapol Nakpanich, a former Deputy Army Chief and current acting Secretary-General to the Defence Minister. Nattapol's deep military ties and history with ex-Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha may ease this transition. The rumoured reshuffle coincides with a possible shift in political alliances. The Democrat Party, traditionally in opposition, might see 21 of its 25 MPs joining the Pheu Thai-led coalition. In return, they could secure key ministerial positions in agriculture and interior sectors. However, senior Democrat figures like Chuan Leekpai and Jurin Laksanavisit are expected to resist this move, reported Thai Newsroom. Democrat leader Chalermchai Sri-on, having previously eyed coalition opportunities under the court-deposed Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, remains a strong advocate for this alliance. Party Secretary-General Det-it Khaothong and Chalermchai are tipped for ministerial roles if the merge proceeds. In contrast, the future of Palang Pracharath Party’s participation in the government remains uncertain due to internal conflicts over ministerial positions. Relations between leader Prawit Wongsuwan and Secretary-General Thammanat Prompao are particularly strained, fuelling speculations of an imminent political exodus of MPs loyal to Thammanat. The complexity of these political manoeuvres adds another layer of intrigue to Thailand's already dynamic political landscape. This potential reshuffle could reshape alliances and define the country's strategic direction in the years to come. -- 2024-08-23 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

15 million people to receive cash instead of digital wallet payments FILE - courtesy NBT Thailand Thailand’s Pheu Thai-led government is set to give 15 million citizens 10,000 baht in cash, eschewing a planned digital wallet scheme. The “fragile” groups, primarily state welfare cardholders, are in line for this direct cash handout. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336246-15-million-people-to-receive-cash-instead-of-digital-wallet-payments/

FILE - courtesy NBT Thailand Thailand’s Pheu Thai-led government is set to give 15 million citizens 10,000 baht in cash, eschewing a planned digital wallet scheme. The “fragile” groups, primarily state welfare cardholders, are in line for this direct cash handout. Under Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, daughter of influential Pheu Thai figure Thaksin Shinawatra, this move reflects a shift in strategy. Initially, the Pheu Thai party had championed a digital wallet project, a signature initiative conceived under Thaksin’s vision. However, the plan has faced delays and now seems unlikely to proceed. The one-time cash payment aims to support individuals, who make up nearly a third of Thailand’s adult population. This shift in policy will cost an estimated 122 billion baht, sourced from a supplementary budget in the government’s Central Fund. An earlier projection posited that around 45 million Thais aged 16 or older would take part in the digital wallet scheme. While more than 30 million people have registered for the digital wallet via the Stateway App, the government has yet to confirm if the initiative will ever be realized. Former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin had planned to roll out the digital wallets by the fourth quarter of the year. The digital wallet was designed for purchases of up to 10,000 baht on essential goods within residents' home districts. Prohibited items included luxury goods, alcohol, cigarettes, and services like spa treatments and fitness centres. It remains to be seen how the cash handout will be received compared to the digital wallet project. The pragmatic shift to direct cash aims to deliver immediate relief, though it diverges from the initially envisioned, and arguably more modern, digital approach. The government’s latest decision reflects a broader trend of using direct financial aid to support citizens in challenging economic times. Whether this will forge sustained economic improvement remains to be observed. -- 2024-08-23 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 23 August 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1336239-thailand-live-friday-23-august-2024/

Thailand's Tourism Surge Threatened by Zero-Dollar Chinese Tours File photo for reference only Thailand's tourism industry, currently experiencing rapid growth due to a new visa-free policy, is catering to a large influx of international visitors. However, even though Chinese tourists make up the majority, issues are emerging regarding Chinese zero-dollar tours. These tours are potentially decreasing Thailand's potential revenue. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336225-thailands-tourism-surge-threatened-by-zero-dollar-chinese-tours/

Foreign man caught standing naked in cannabis shop in Phuket Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ A picture of a naked foreign man proudly showing off the family jewels inside a cannabis shop in the Patong neighbourhood of Phuket went viral on Thai social media. The reason for his nakedness is still under investigation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336223-foreign-man-caught-standing-naked-in-cannabis-shop-in-phuket/

Picture from responders. The Cessna Caravan C208 aircraft that crashed, was carrying five foreign passengers, all Chinese nationals, with two pilots and two flight attendants, total of 9 onboard. It is assumed that there were no survivors. Aircraft Crash in Chachoengsao, 9 Assumed Dead, Including 2 Children Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336202-22-august-small-aircraft-crash-in-chachoengsao/

UPDATE: Japanese man loses 310,000 baht to visa scam and corrupt police by Petch Petpailin Photo via MGR Online A Japanese man filed a complaint with the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) after losing 300,000 baht in a visa scam and an additional 10,000 baht to a corrupt Thai cyber cop. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336147-sergeant-helps-japanese-man-report-visa-scam-amid-mounting-losses/?do=findComment&comment=19169874

Japanese man loses 310,000 baht to visa scam and corrupt police by Petch Petpailin Photo via MGR Online A Japanese man filed a complaint with the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) after losing 300,000 baht in a visa scam and an additional 10,000 baht to a corrupt Thai cyber cop. The victim, 51 year old Shinichi Maeda, who runs a clothing export business in Thailand, revealed to CIB police that he has been living in Thailand for 20 years and running his business in the country for about 14 years. Seeking a long-term visa, he hired a Thai man named Jakkapong to handle the process. Jakkapong claimed he could offer Shinichi a visa for a permanent stay in Thailand for just 20,000 baht. Shinichi paid Jakkapong the amount in 2019 but never received the promised visa. Jakkapong repeatedly requested amounts between 20,000 and 30,000 baht from Shinichi, claiming they were for operational costs. Shinichi transferred money to Jakkapong 16 times, resulting in a total loss of 300,000 baht. Jakkapong falsely attributed the delay in processing the visa to the pandemic and other reasons until Shinichi decided to take the matter to the Immigration Bureau in 2023. Immigration police reviewed Shinichi’s visa and discovered that he failed to submit some documents and engaged in bribery of officials. Shinichi asked the immigration police for advice on how to resolve the issue and renew his visa and they directed him to consult with the cyber police. Shinichi then met with a cyber police officer, who summoned Jakkapong for questioning and drafted a loan agreement between Shinichi and Jakkapong, in which Jakkapong agreed to return all the money he had swindled from Shinichi. Unexpectedly, this police officer demanded a bribe of 2,000 baht and an operational cost of 3,000 baht from Shinichi. The officer also borrowed 5,000 baht from Shinichi, promising to repay it soon. Shinichi found that his issue remained unresolved and grew concerned that the suspects might physically assault him or that he could be deported and banned from the country. Channel 7 reported that Jakkapong was recently charged in April by Petchkasem Police Station for running a visa scam on a Chinese national. Many victims have previously filed complaints against him. However, there has been no report of the next step in the legal process in this case, and the identity of the corrupt cop has not been made public. Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-22 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Australian tourists help collect rubbish on Koh Samui (video) by Puntid Tantivangphaisal video screenshot A group of Australian tourists on Koh Samui became an unexpected viral sensation by helping local municipal workers collect rubbish in the early morning hours. Their enthusiastic efforts, captured on video, brought smiles and laughter to viewers, especially Thais. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336171-australian-tourists-help-collect-rubbish-on-koh-samui-video/

video screenshot A group of Australian tourists on Koh Samui became an unexpected viral sensation by helping local municipal workers collect rubbish in the early morning hours. Their enthusiastic efforts, captured on video, brought smiles and laughter to viewers, especially Thais. The incident took place yesterday at around 4am, today, August 22, when the tourists, hanging off the back of a garbage truck, eagerly assisted in lifting and emptying bins. Their spirited participation left a lasting impression on anyone who passed by, with some even shouting praises. The video that captured this endearing moment was shared on TikTok by a user who mentioned being so charmed by the scene that they had to turn their car around to record it. “Aussie guys, it was around 4am, and we drove past them. We had to turn back to capture their cuteness. Sorry for the laughter in the background, we were drunk, and they were just too adorable.” The clip quickly gained traction online, with viewers expressing their admiration for the tourists’ unexpected act of kindness. The tourists’ actions were not only endearing but also demonstrated a sense of community and willingness to help, even while on holiday, reported KhaoSod. The video shows the group of tourists energetically lifting bins and dumping the rubbish into the truck, all while maintaining high spirits. Their cheerful attitude and willingness to get their hands dirty were met with applause and cheers from onlookers, said another unnamed resident. “It’s not often you see tourists going out of their way to help with such a thankless task. These guys are amazing! “It’s so heartwarming to see people from different parts of the world coming together and helping out, even in small ways like this. It restores your faith in humanity.” Locals who witnessed the scene expressed their gratitude and amazement at the tourists’ actions. “Seeing them help out like this so early in the morning was truly inspiring. It shows that kindness knows no boundaries.” by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-22 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

PM Paetongtarn Thanks Leaders of India, Indonesia, Maldives, and U.S. FILE - Thailand's new Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra talks to media members after receiving a royal letter of endorsement for the post at the Pheu Thai party headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand Sunday, Aug. 18, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra expressed gratitude via Twitter (X) for congratulations from leaders of India, Indonesia, the Maldives, and the U.S. Secretary of State. The acknowledgments came after her recent appointment as Thailand’s Prime Minister. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336164-pm-paetongtarn-thanks-leaders-of-india-indonesia-maldives-and-us/

FILE - Thailand's new Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra talks to media members after receiving a royal letter of endorsement for the post at the Pheu Thai party headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand Sunday, Aug. 18, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra expressed gratitude via Twitter (X) for congratulations from leaders of India, Indonesia, the Maldives, and the U.S. Secretary of State. The acknowledgments came after her recent appointment as Thailand’s Prime Minister. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Paetongtarn with these words: “Congratulations Prime Minister Paetongtarn on your election as the Prime Minister of Thailand. Best wishes for a very successful tenure. Look forward to working with you to further strengthen the bilateral ties between India and Thailand, that are based on strong foundations of civilizational, cultural and people to people connect.” Paetongtarn responded, “Thank you, Prime Minister Modi, for your warm congratulatory message. I look forward to working closely with you to further strengthen our bilateral relations, especially in trade and investment, culture, people-to-people contact, and tourism, aiming to increase air travel between both countries. I am confident that we can build upon our existing ties and explore untapped potentials to create even greater opportunities for our two countries, peoples and beyond.” Indonesian President Joko Widodo also shared his congratulations: “I wish to congratulate Her Excellency Paetongtarn Shinawatra on her appointment as the Prime Minister of Thailand. I believe that under her able leadership, Indonesia & Thailand will continue to strengthen our bilateral relations and beyond, including on enhancing cooperation within ASEAN.” To this, Paetongtarn replied, “Thank you, President Joko Widodo, for your kind words of congratulations. Thailand and Indonesia have always been good friends and partners in ASEAN. As we celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Thailand – Indonesia diplomatic relations in 2025, I look forward to strengthening cooperation for mutual benefits.” The President of Maldives, Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, extended his warm wishes: “Warm congratulations to Prime Minister Paetongtarn on being appointed as the youngest Prime Minister of Thailand. Thailand is poised to enter a new era of prosperity under your able leadership. I look forward to working together to further strengthen the close ties of friendship and mutual cooperation between the Maldives and Thailand.” Paetongtarn responded, “Thank you, President Muizzu, for your kind congratulations and confidence in my leadership. Thailand values its long-standing relations with the Maldives. I look forward to enhancing our partnership in all sectors.” Finally, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken congratulated her with the message, “Congratulations to Prime Minister Paetongtarn on her selection as Thailand’s next prime minister. We look forward to engaging with Prime Minister Paetongtarn to further strengthen the enduring alliance between the United States and Thailand.” The Prime Minister expressed gratitude, “Thank you, Secretary Blinken, for the congratulatory message. I look forward to working closely with the U.S. to strengthen our long-standing alliance and advance our multi-faceted partnership for the benefit of our countries, peoples, and the region.” These responses reflect Paetongtarn's commitment to fostering strong international relationships and enhancing diplomatic ties, reported Pattaya Mail. -- 2024-08-22 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thaksin to deliver special address at ‘Dinner Talk – Vision for Thailand 2024’ event By Pattaya Mail In related news, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is scheduled to deliver a special address on August 22 at the “Dinner Talk: Vision for Thailand 2024” event. BANGKOK, Thailand – The flagship policy of distributing 10,000 baht via digital wallets, initially promoted by the Pheu Thai Party under the Srettha government, and now under the leadership of Paetongtarn Shinawatra, has faced rumors of potential cancellation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336162-thaksin-to-deliver-special-address-at-‘dinner-talk-–-vision-for-thailand-2024’-event/

In related news, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is scheduled to deliver a special address on August 22 at the “Dinner Talk: Vision for Thailand 2024” event. By Pattaya Mail BANGKOK, Thailand – The flagship policy of distributing 10,000 baht via digital wallets, initially promoted by the Pheu Thai Party under the Srettha government, and now under the leadership of Paetongtarn Shinawatra, has faced rumors of potential cancellation. However, recent reports suggest that the project will move forward with adjustments focusing on supporting vulnerable groups. Deputy Finance Minister Julapan Amornwiwat on August 21 confirmed that the digital wallet initiative is still viable and progressing, although specific details have not yet been disclosed. He assured that a formal announcement will be made once the process is finalized. According to an insider source, the project will begin by distributing cash directly to vulnerable groups who have previously registered for assistance. This will be part of a broader allocation of 122 billion baht, as recently approved by the parliament. Instead of the initial plan to use digital wallet technology, the funds will be distributed as a one-time cash payment of 10,000 baht through the State Welfare Card program. Full story: PATTAYA MAIL 2024-08-22 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Aggressive Driver Threatens Women at Buriram Training Centre video screenshot อยากดังเดี๋ยวจัดให้ รีเทริน์ part 7 Facebook A man in his mid-forties drove a black Ford Everest aggressively into a university, verbally abusing a group of women aged around 50, claiming they had cut him off while driving. Police are now investigating the incident. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336159-aggressive-driver-threatens-women-at-buriram-training-centre/

video screenshot อยากดังเดี๋ยวจัดให้ รีเทริน์ part 7 Facebook A man in his mid-forties drove a black Ford Everest aggressively into a university, verbally abusing a group of women aged around 50, claiming they had cut him off while driving. Police are now investigating the incident. Yesterday, a group of residents from Thai Charoen, Moo 4, Hu Thanop, Pakam district, Buriram, filed a report at Pakam Police Station. They reported being harassed by a man aged 45 to 50 years at a training centre within a university. Before filing the report, they shared a clip of the incident on the Facebook page อยากดังเดี๋ยวจัดให้ รีเทริน์ part 7 to warn others about the potential danger. The clip showed the man attempting to assault a group of five women. Despite the intervention, he threw a shoe at them and threatened to return and cause more trouble. The residents recorded the incident and captured the vehicle’s details: a black Ford Everest with the registration number กบ 4465 Chanthaburi. Kingkaew Boonsuk, a 52-year-old woman, recounted that they were attending a five-day training programme aimed at enhancing the skills and income of locals. On the second day, a participant on a motorcycle mentioned a near-collision with a car while turning into the university. Shortly after, the same Ford Everest sped into the university, and its driver began shouting at the recent arrivals, accusing them of cutting him off. Kingkaew, who was nearby, tried to intervene and reason with the man. However, he turned his aggression towards her, attempting to punch her multiple times before university staff intervened. The man then climbed onto a balcony, removed his shoes, and threw them at Kingkaew twice while shouting obscenities. He appeared visibly intoxicated and extremely agitated. Before driving away, he threatened, “I will come back for you.” Fearing for their safety, the villagers decided to report the incident to the police. Arun Charoenphiw, a 55-year-old woman, explained that she was one of the people the man had targeted. She and two friends were on a motorcycle, preparing to turn right into the training centre. Upon checking behind them, they saw the fast-approaching car and swerved to the left to avoid a collision. The car sped past them, causing a strong gust of wind. Initially, they thought the incident was over, but the man turned his car around and came back to confront them. She admitted it was a frightening experience, especially since the training centre is far from the nearest village. Police Colonel Chisanupong Thiankittipong, the superintendent of Pakam Police Station, confirmed that they have identified the vehicle’s registration. They plan to summon the driver for questioning. -- 2024-08-22 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thunderstorms predicted for 33 provinces with heavy rain in the north by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of Dominik QN, Unsplash The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has predicted thunderstorms tomorrow in 33 provinces, with the northern region seeing the heaviest rainfall, affecting 80% of the area. Continuous heavy rain is expected, with warnings of potential flash floods and landslides. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336155-thunderstorms-predicted-for-33-provinces-with-heavy-rain-in-the-north/

Thailand Meteorological Department (TMD) has predicted thunderstorms tomorrow in 33 provinces, with the northern region seeing the heaviest rainfall, affecting 80% of the area. Continuous heavy rain is expected, with warnings of potential flash floods and landslides. TMD has issued a weather forecast for the next 24 hours, predicting continuous rainfall in many areas of the upper northern region. Heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected in some spots. The northeast, central, and eastern regions will also experience heavy rain in certain areas. Residents in these regions have been advised to stay vigilant for the dangers of heavy to very heavy rainfall and accumulated rain, which could lead to flash floods and water runoff, particularly in hilly areas, near waterways, and low-lying areas. The Department of Mineral Resources has also issued warnings for landslides and flash floods in 12 provinces, particularly in the upper northern region, where heavy rain is expected in 70% of the area. Other regions, including Bangkok, will continue to experience rain in some areas. This weather pattern is due to the monsoon trough passing over the upper northern region and upper Laos into a low-pressure cell over northern Vietnam. Additionally, southeasterly and southwesterly winds are prevailing over the upper northeast, while the southwest monsoon continues to cover the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand. In the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, waves are expected to reach about 1 metre, with higher waves in areas experiencing thunderstorms. Mariners are advised to avoid sailing in these conditions. Heavy rain In the northern region, thunderstorms are expected in 80% of the area, with heavy to very heavy rain in Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lamphun, Lampang, Phayao, Phrae, Nan, Tak, Uttaradit, Phitsanulok, and Phetchabun provinces. Temperatures will range from 23 to 26 degrees Celsius for the minimum and 27 to 33 degrees Celsius for the maximum, with southwesterly winds at speeds of 5 to 15 kilometres per hour. The northeast will see thunderstorms in 60% of the area, with heavy rain in Loei, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Udon Thani, Sakon Nakhon, and Nakhon Phanom provinces. Minimum temperatures will be between 24 and 26 degrees Celsius, and maximum temperatures will range from 31 to 35 degrees Celsius, with southwesterly winds at speeds of 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. In the central region, thunderstorms are expected in 60% of the area, with heavy rain in Lopburi and Saraburi provinces. Minimum temperatures will range from 23 to 26 degrees Celsius, and maximum temperatures will be between 34 and 35 degrees Celsius, with southwesterly winds at speeds of 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. The eastern region will also experience thunderstorms in 60% of the area, with heavy rain in Nakhon Nayok, Chanthaburi, and Trat provinces. Temperatures will be between 25 and 27 degrees Celsius for the minimum and 33 to 35 degrees Celsius for the maximum, with southwesterly winds at speeds of 15 to 30 kilometres per hour. Waves will reach about 1 metre, with higher waves in thunderstorms. In the southern region (eastern coast), 40% of the area will see thunderstorms, mostly in Phetchaburi, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, and Songkhla provinces. Minimum temperatures will range from 23 to 26 degrees Celsius, and maximum temperatures will be between 33 and 36 degrees Celsius, with southwesterly winds at speeds of 15 to 30 kilometres per hour. Waves will reach about 1 metre, with higher waves in thunderstorms. The southern region (western coast) will experience thunderstorms in 60% of the area, mostly in Phuket, Krabi, Trang, and Satun provinces. Minimum temperatures will be between 23 and 25 degrees Celsius, and maximum temperatures will range from 33 to 35 degrees Celsius, with southwesterly winds at speeds of 15 to 30 kilometres per hour. Waves will reach about 1 metre, with higher waves in thunderstorms, reported KhaoSod. Bangkok and its vicinity will have thunderstorms in 60% of the area. Minimum temperatures will range from 25 to 27 degrees Celsius, and maximum temperatures will be between 33 and 35 degrees Celsius, with southwesterly winds at speeds of 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of Dominik QN, Unsplash Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-22 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Pidok Sooksawas: From High-Flyer to Thailand’s First Gentleman Picture courtesy: thansettakij Pidok Sooksawas, originally from Nakhon Si Thammarat, has transitioned from being an airline pilot to Thailand’s First Gentleman. He is the husband of Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the new Prime Minister from the ruling Pheu Thai Party, who he married in 2019. Their wedding, held in Hong Kong, was a grand affair presided over by Princess Ubolratana. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336154-pidok-sooksawas-from-high-flyer-to-thailand’s-first-gentleman/

Pidok Sooksawas, originally from Nakhon Si Thammarat, has transitioned from being an airline pilot to Thailand’s First Gentleman. He is the husband of Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the new Prime Minister from the ruling Pheu Thai Party, who he married in 2019. Their wedding, held in Hong Kong, was a grand affair presided over by Princess Ubolratana. Pidok has been a constant source of support for Paetongtarn, especially during her political endeavours. "I’m here to offer her moral support. I want her to feel secure when she looks around and sees me," he says. His role is pivotal, particularly in alleviating her stress and providing emotional support. The couple has two young children: a three-year-old daughter and a 16-month-old son. Born in 1982, Pidok was considered one of the country's most eligible bachelors. His impressive height and a degree in mechanical engineering from King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang added to his charm. He initially pursued a career as an airline pilot but had to give it up due to his mother-in-law's concerns about the risks. After stepping away from piloting, Pidok co-founded MWP Co Ltd, a company operating from Shinawatra Tower 3, with a registered capital of 5 million baht, reported Thai PBS. Although the company has yet to turn a profit, Pidok has almost 1.65 million baht in stake. His wife, Paetongtarn, holds shareholdings worth over 9.33 billion baht, including a significant stake in Rende Development, where Pidok serves as chief deputy officer of investment. Despite his prominent familial ties, Pidok has managed to maintain a low profile, even as he supports his wife during public events. However, with Paetongtarn now being the country's most powerful person, it remains to be seen if he can continue to shy away from the political spotlight. An avid Liverpool FC fan for over two decades, Pidok's dedication to his favourite team epitomises his loyalty, a trait that he consistently demonstrates in his personal and professional life. Picture courtesy: thansettakij -- 2024-08-22 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe