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Pheu Thai to approach senators individually seeking their support The Pheu Thai party has assigned Suriya Juangroongruangkit, a key member, to head a small team to approach senators individually, seeking their support for the party’s bid to form the government and its prime ministerial candidate, to be selected by the parliament on July 27th. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301515-pheu-thai-to-approach-senators-individually-seeking-their-support/

The Pheu Thai party has assigned Suriya Juangroongruangkit, a key member, to head a small team to approach senators individually, seeking their support for the party’s bid to form the government and its prime ministerial candidate, to be selected by the parliament on July 27th. Party leader Chonlanan Srikaew said today (Sunday) that they must approach the senators individually and treat them with respect. He also defended the party’s move to approach other parties, to sound them out about the government’s formation, after Pheu Thai took over from the Move Forward party in leading the coalition. Chonlanan, party secretary-general Prasert Chanthararuangthong and deputy leader Phumtham Wechayachai met with representatives of the Bhumjaithai, United Thai Nation and Chart Pattana Kla parties informally yesterday (Saturday), to hear their opinions about ways to resolve the current political stalemate. Full story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/pheu-thai-to-approach-senators-individually-seeking-their-support/ -- © Copyright Thai PBS 2023-07-24 - 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.

CHIANG MAI, Thailand - July 24, 2023 - The Table Company, a renowned Chiang Mai-based artisan furniture manufacturer, is delighted to announce the availability of its premium handcrafted furniture collection in the Thai market. Renowned for its meticulous craftsmanship and timeless elegance, The Table Company, through its partner Thaweephan Furniture Company, has been operating from its Chiang Mai factory since 1955, creating and exporting high-quality furniture made from kiln-dried Thai Burmese Golden Teak and North American Oak for the US market. Now, we are proud to offer our US furniture directly to our home market, bringing our legacy of superior quality and design to Thailand. "We're incredibly excited to introduce our unique furniture collection to our local Thai customers," said Ken and NuLek Phillips, owners of The Table Company. "Each of our furniture pieces is a testament to our dedicated team of artisans, who pour their passion and precision into the creation of every single piece." The Table Company sets itself apart with its dedication to the use of solid hardwoods, avoiding veneers, synthetics, or automated machinery in the production process. The resulting pieces radiate the natural elegance of the wood and embody the time-honored tradition of handcrafted furniture. Our customers will also experience high quality furniture at more competitive pricing compared to Bangkok-based importers of branded furniture. To celebrate our new venture, we are offering free delivery all over Thailand. This allows our Thai customers to easily explore and purchase our wide range of contemporary and traditional Western designs and receive them at their doorstep at no additional cost. Being based in Chiang Mai, we have had the privilege of being surrounded by rich Thai aesthetics, which have played a crucial role in inspiring our creations. Now, serving the Thai market directly, we aim to further integrate local design elements into our offerings, enhancing the cultural harmony of our collections. We invite everyone in Thailand to explore the offerings of The Table Company, and experience the perfect blend of design, quality, and craftsmanship that has made our furniture beloved in the United States. We are confident that you will find our furniture to be not just a purchase, but a lifetime investment. About The Table Company: The Table Company, based in Chiang Mai, Denver and Los Angeles, specializes in crafting high-quality furniture from Thai Burmese Golden Teak and North American Oak. Having served the US market for many years, the company carries a legacy of quality, craftsmanship. The Table Company has partnered with Thaweephan Furniture Company to extend its quality commitment to hotels, resorts and residential projects. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TTCTWP Website: https://thetablecompany.co.th/ Line: https://page.line.me/thetablecm TheTableCompany.co.th Denver - Los Angeles - Chiang Mai

Safety fears rise as key Phuket boat tour facility Chalong Pier sinks again by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Phuket News In Thailand, Chalong Pier, a key Phuket boat tour facility is under scrutiny as concerns are being raised about the potential safety hazards it poses. The main pontoon, used by tourists to board tour boats, is reportedly sinking again and is visibly covered in rust. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301513-safety-fears-rise-as-key-phuket-boat-tour-facility-chalong-pier-sinks-again/

Thai anti-corruption watchdog asked to probe 235 senators who rejected Pita’s PM bid A former dean of the Faculty of Law at Thammasat University has asked Thailand’s National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) to investigate 235 senators for allegedly defying ethical conduct rules over their rejection of Move Forward party leader Pita Limjaroenrat’s prime ministerial candidacy on July 13th. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301512-thai-anti-corruption-watchdog-asked-to-probe-235-senators-who-rejected-pita’s-pm-bid/

A former dean of the Faculty of Law at Thammasat University has asked Thailand’s National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) to investigate 235 senators for allegedly defying ethical conduct rules over their rejection of Move Forward party leader Pita Limjaroenrat’s prime ministerial candidacy on July 13th. Panat Tasneeyanond said that only 13 out of 249 senators voted for Pita, but 159 abstained, 34 voted against the candidacy and 43 were absent. Abstaining from voting or absence from the parliamentary meeting on July 13th equates to rejecting Pita’s candidacy, said Panat, adding that their conduct amounts to a failure to adhere to democratic governance with the King as the head of state, which, he added, is a serious violation of the ethical standards stipulated in Sections 234 and 235 of Thailand’s Constitution. The former dean alleged that the senators’ actions are tantamount to rejecting the parties which won the election and represent the majority in the House of Representatives. Full story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/thai-anti-corruption-watchdog-asked-to-probe-235-senators-who-rejected-pitas-pm-bid/ -- © Copyright Thai PBS 2023-07-24 - 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.

Thai waste segregation campaign saves 127.8 million baht in 5 months by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of iStock The recent waste segregation campaign aimed at advocating for the proper segregation of household rubbish seems to be reaping rewards in Thailand, according to the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301511-thai-waste-segregation-campaign-saves-1278-million-baht-in-5-months/

The recent waste segregation campaign aimed at advocating for the proper segregation of household rubbish seems to be reaping rewards in Thailand, according to the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA). Aekvarunyoo Amarapala, a spokesperson for the BMA, revealed over the weekend that the last five months saw a considerable decrease in both the amount of garbage making its way to the city’s waste management facilities and the expenses related to waste processing. There was a decline of 67,248 tonnes in the total volume of waste handled by the city from February to the end of June this year, which equals a daily reduction of about 444 tonnes. This comparison is against the same span of time in the previous year, and it has led to waste treatment cost savings of 127.8 million baht (US$3.7 million), he explained. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of iStock Full story: https://thethaiger.com/news/national/thai-waste-segregation-campaign-saves-127-8-million-baht-in-5-months -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-07-24 - 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.

Article 272: The unmovable constitutional rock that wrecked Pita’s PM bid Blame for Move Forward leader Pita Limjaroenrat’s failed bid to become prime minister has fallen on Article 272 of the Constitution. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301510-article-272-the-unmovable-constitutional-rock-that-wrecked-pita’s-pm-bid/

Blame for Move Forward leader Pita Limjaroenrat’s failed bid to become prime minister has fallen on Article 272 of the Constitution. Pita fell short of the majority required to take the top job during a parliamentary vote on July 13. The charter’s transitory clause empowers the Senate to elect a prime minister jointly with the House of Representatives for “five years from the date of installation of the first National Assembly under this Constitution”. The first Parliament under this Constitution convened in May 2019. Just a day after Pita’s bid failed, Move Forward submitted a draft amendment for Article 272 that would “switch off” the Senate’s constitutional power to join elected MPs in the vote for a new PM. If this power were taken away, then nominees would only need majority support from MPs to become prime minister. Full story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/article-272-the-unmovable-constitutional-rock-that-wrecked-pitas-pm-bid/ -- © Copyright Thai PBS 2023-07-24 - 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.

The no-win solution: Thai government a go-go by Tim Newton Views expressed in this editorial are that of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of phuket-GO.com With the Thai election now more than 2 months in the rear-view mirror, there is still no PM, no government and no easy path to the finish line. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301509-the-no-win-solution-thai-government-a-go-go/

Views expressed in this editorial are that of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of phuket-GO.com With the Thai election now more than 2 months in the rear-view mirror, there is still no PM, no government and no easy path to the finish line. There are now only two stark outcomes facing the Thai electorate – both unpalatable and unworkable. Both will lead to more conflict and a destabilised political landscape. As a preamble, the Move Forward Party, who won more primary votes than any other party, have proven to be both intransigent and unappetising to the army/conservative MPs and almost the entire Senate. So they’re, politically, dead in the water for now and are unlikely to be a part of conversations to form a new government. by Tim Newton Full story: https://phuket-go.com/phuket-news/national-news/the-no-win-solution-thai-government-a-go-go/ -- © Copyright Phuket GO 2023-07-24 - 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.

UPDATE: Pattaya entertainment venues near U-Tapao airport get 24-hour operations approval by Top Photo courtesy of Hanny Naibaho (Unsplash) In an effort to stimulate the tourism sector, the Thai Cabinet has given the nod to a proposal that promotes round-the-clock operations of Pattaya entertainment venues. However, this permit is specifically allocated to the region around U-Tapao International Airport. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301496-thai-officials-clarify-approval-of-247-entertainment-venues-in-the-pattaya-area-u-tapao-airport-area-only/?do=findComment&comment=18223445

Police Warn Public Cyberbullying Can Lead To Penalty by TNR Staff Technology Crime Suppression Division Deputy Chief Pol. Col. Siriwat Deephor. Photo: Sanook.com THE TECHNOLOGY Crime Suppression Division police warned the public there can be consequences for cyberbullying and harassment as both civil and criminal lawsuits could be filed against the perpetrator, Sanook.com said. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301508-police-warn-public-cyberbullying-can-lead-to-penalty/

THE TECHNOLOGY Crime Suppression Division police warned the public there can be consequences for cyberbullying and harassment as both civil and criminal lawsuits could be filed against the perpetrator, Sanook.com said. This comes as some senators moved to sue those who criticised them online after only 13 out of a total 249 as one senator had resigned voted in favour of Move Forward leader Pita Limjaroenrat for prime minister in the first round of joint House/senate meeting that took place on July 13. In the second round of voting last Wednesday (July 19) the majority of MPs and senators voted in favour of applying Article 41 of parliamentary regulations that says a motion dropped cannot be resubmitted thus denying Pita a second chance of being named prime minister. by TNR Staff Top picture: Technology Crime Suppression Division Deputy Chief Pol. Col. Siriwat Deephor. Photo: Sanook.com Full story: https://thainewsroom.com/2023/07/22/police-warn-public-cyberbullying-can-lead-to-penalty/ -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-07-24 - 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.

Thai Democrat party denies rumors of joining Pheu Thai party by Mitch Connor Mitch Secretary of the Move Forward Party Chaithawat Tulathon, left, and leader of Pheu Thai party Chonlanan Srikaew, right, at a joint press conference at Pheu Thai Party headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand, Friday, July 21. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) The Democrat Party of Thailand vehemently dismissed circulating rumours that more than half of its members of parliament were in the process of joining a coalition led by Pheu Thai. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301507-thai-democrat-party-denies-rumors-of-joining-pheu-thai-party/

The Democrat Party of Thailand vehemently dismissed circulating rumours that more than half of its members of parliament were in the process of joining a coalition led by Pheu Thai. The party remains undecided regarding its stance on voting for Pheu Thai’s prime ministerial nominee, Srettha Thavisin. Party spokesman, Ramet Rattanachaweng, quashed speculations about a mass defection yesterday. Gossip had been rife that 16 out of its 25 MPs, including acting secretary-general Chalermchai Sri-on, were leaning towards Pheu Thai after discussions predicted their inclusion in the forthcoming government. ” No one can make such a decision alone. It must be a resolution of our party’s executive committee and our 25 MPs,” stated Ramet, firmly denying further assertions that the 16 MPs are contemplating a switch to the Bhumjaithai Party. by Mitch Connor Mitch Secretary of the Move Forward Party Chaithawat Tulathon, left, and leader of Pheu Thai party Chonlanan Srikaew, right, at a joint press conference at Pheu Thai Party headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand, Friday, July 21. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Full story: https://thethaiger.com/news/national/thai-democrat-party-denies-rumors-of-joining-pheu-thai-party#google_vignette -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-07-24 - 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.

Ban Pong police raid pubs for underage drinking and drug violations by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Sanook A thorough investigation has been instigated by Ratchaburi Provincial Police against five high-ranking officers stationed at Ban Pong police station, in light of a raid at two unauthorised pubs supposed to have allowed entry of teenagers, underage drinking, and drug consumption. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301506-ban-pong-police-raid-pubs-for-underage-drinking-and-drug-violations/

Pheu Thai-led Coalition Firmly Opposes Amending Lese-Majeste Law By Goongnang Suksawat PRESS RELEASE: In the aftermath of the rejection of Pita Limjaroenrat's nomination for the premiership, Pheu Thai Party remains steadfast in its position concerning the lese-majeste law. Its prime ministerial candidate Srettha Thavisin expressed his disappointment over the failed nomination but emphasized the need to accept the outcome and move forward. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301505-pheu-thai-led-coalition-firmly-opposes-amending-lese-majeste-law/

In the aftermath of the rejection of Pita Limjaroenrat's nomination for the premiership, Pheu Thai Party remains steadfast in its position concerning the lese-majeste law. Its prime ministerial candidate Srettha Thavisin expressed his disappointment over the failed nomination but emphasized the need to accept the outcome and move forward. Despite the setback, the Pheu Thai Party is determined to retain Section 112 of the Criminal Code, which deals with the lese-majeste law, should it lead the government. Srettha made it clear that the support from political parties and senators hinges on their commitment to maintaining this law. He added that his party will firmly oppose any attempts to amend or revoke Section 112 during the upcoming joint sitting of the House and Senate on July 27. Many senators have voiced their opposition to supporting a candidate from any coalition that includes the Move Forward Party unless the latter abandons its intention to alter the lese-majeste law. This stance puts pressure on Srettha's potential candidacy, as Pheu Thai and Move Forward Party together hold 292 seats, making them essential components of the eight-party coalition alliance with a total of 312 MPs. Srettha believes that constructive discussions can potentially garner the firm support of senators for a Pheu Thai-led administration, noting that the inclusion of the Move Forward Party in the coalition will depend on the ongoing negotiations between the parties involved. For the time being, Srettha said he remains committed to forming the next government alongside the eight-party coalition, focusing on economic development and potential amendments to the constitution. By Goongnang Suksawat The preceding is a press release from the Thai Government PR Department. Source: https://thepattayanews.com/2023/07/22/pheu-thai-led-coalition-firmly-opposes-amending-lese-majeste-law/ -- © Copyright The Pattaya News 2023-07-24 - 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.

Thailand’s yearly military reshuffle may be delayed due to coalition government by Mitch Connor Riot police officers stand guard at Parliament in Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, July 19. (AP Photo/Wason Wanitchakron) In light of the formation of an impending coalition government, Thailand’s yearly military reshuffle might be subjected to a delay, as revealed by Prayut Chan-o-cha, who is concurrently serving as the Defence Minister and Prime Minister. His announcement was made on Friday, upon the closure of a Defence Council session. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301504-thailand’s-yearly-military-reshuffle-may-be-delayed-due-to-coalition-government/

In light of the formation of an impending coalition government, Thailand’s yearly military reshuffle might be subjected to a delay, as revealed by Prayut Chan-o-cha, who is concurrently serving as the Defence Minister and Prime Minister. His announcement was made on Friday, upon the closure of a Defence Council session. Expressing uncertainty about the timing of the reshuffle, Prayut said that he has no idea when it will be. His comments were remarkable as he usually refrains from engaging in political discourse following his election loss. The justification for the potential hold up, he explained, centres on the fact that political groups are currently focused on establishing a coalition government, leading to certain other activities, including the annual reshuffle, being put on hold. Nonetheless, an insider from the Defence Council shed some light on Prayut’s thoughts during the meeting. As per this source, the incumbent prime minister and defence minister urged the military’s top brass to sustain their efforts, irrespective of who will take the reins of the defence ministry or the prime minister’s office. by Mitch Connor Riot police officers stand guard at Parliament in Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, July 19. (AP Photo/Wason Wanitchakron) Full story: https://thethaiger.com/news/national/thailands-yearly-military-reshuffle-may-be-delayed-due-to-coalition-government -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-07-24 - 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.

University students’ protest ignites over senators’ role by Mitch Connor A supporter of Move Forward Party shouts during a protest outside Parliament in Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, July 19. (AP Photo/Wason Wanitchakron) Activists comprising mainly students, as well as supporters of the Move Forward Party (MFP), held protests at the Kasetsart University, situated in the Bang Khen district of Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301503-university-students’-protest-ignites-over-senators’-role/

Activists comprising mainly students, as well as supporters of the Move Forward Party (MFP), held protests at the Kasetsart University, situated in the Bang Khen district of Bangkok, yesterday evening. The protests sparked from the increasing tension and anger against the seemingly prominent role individuals appointed as senators hold in the prolonged political disturbance of the country. This rally was organised by a student group known as the New Sunrise Party, endorsing the battle cry for protester solidarity as, “Join hands to eradicate evil-hearted senators.” Visitors flocked to the campus around half past four in the afternoon, specifically beside the university auditorium, to publicly show their resentment towards the senators. This political body had decidedly voted against Pita Limjaroenrat, the nominated leader of the Move Forward Party up for prime minister, in two recent parliamentary sessions. A black flag bearing the phrase “Respect My Vote” fluttered high amidst the crowd and the demonstrators echoed the sentiment through a symbolic three-finger gesture. This visual outcry was directed against the military-elected senators who exercise their right to vote for prime ministers. Advising protestors on the course of action and inspiring the crowd were Pro-democracy activist Patsaravalee “Mind” Tanakitvibulpon, Somyos Preusakasemsuk and human rights lawyer Anon Nampa. by Mitch Connor A supporter of Move Forward Party shouts during a protest outside Parliament in Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, July 19. (AP Photo/Wason Wanitchakron) Full story: https://thethaiger.com/news/national/university-students-protest-ignites-over-senators-role -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-07-24 - 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.

Thai hotel chains unfazed by political uncertainty, anticipate revenue growth by Alex Morgan Supporters of the Move Forward Party gather at Democracy Monument during a protest in Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, July 19. (AP Photo/Wason Wanichakorn) Despite the ongoing political uncertainty, Thailand’s major hotel chains remain optimistic, as long as the situation stays peaceful and avoids any violent unrest. Centara Hotels and Resorts (CHR) and Minor International Plc voiced their confidence in their ability to weather any potential political storms, providing the environment remains stable. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301502-thai-hotel-chains-unfazed-by-political-uncertainty-anticipate-revenue-growth/