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Thai news agencies and locals were quick to highlight the fact that Pita Limjaroenrat, the leader of the Move Forward Party (MFP), owned shares in the media company iTV. However, it appears that Pita is not the only politician with such holdings. Bhumjaithai Party MP Jakkrit Thongsi also possesses 40,000 shares in a media company. The Office of the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) publicly disclosed the assets and liabilities of politicians in anticipation of 100 MPs stepping down to make way for newly elected representatives. Of particular interest to the Thai media were the iTV shares held by Jakkrit, a member of the Bhumjaithai Party. Jakkrit currently serves as the representative for the 7th district of Burriram province. However, during the 2023 General Election, he won as an MP for the 10th district of the same province. According to the NACC’s report, Jakkrit and his wife, Suppajira Thongsi, declared total assets worth 84 million baht, with no outstanding debts. Jakkrit revealed that his annual income amounts to approximately 5.8 million baht, while his wife earns 1.14 million baht per year. Among his assets, Jakkrit holds shares in two companies. He possesses 41.58 million units in Property Perfect, valued at 16.6 million baht, and 40,000 units in iTV, which are currently assessed as having no value. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Wikipedia Full story: https://thethaiger.com/news/national/bhumjaithai-party-mp-found-holding-itv-shares-investigation-called -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-07-19 - 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.

Bangkok family tragedy: 2 lives lost in townhouse fire, extensive injuries to 3 more by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In the early hours of this morning, tragedy struck in the form of a fire that engulfed a five-story townhouse in Bangkok, claiming two lives and leaving three extensively injured. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301079-bangkok-family-tragedy-2-lives-lost-in-townhouse-fire-extensive-injuries-to-3-more/

As it happens: Pita’s second shot at becoming PM Move Forward PM candidate Pita Limjaroenrat will try again today to secure the premiership. Ahead of him are a range of possible scenarios, so join us at Thai PBS World for trusted, detailed and accurate reporting from start to finish. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301076-as-it-happens-pita’s-second-shot-at-becoming-pm/

Move Forward PM candidate Pita Limjaroenrat will try again today to secure the premiership. Ahead of him are a range of possible scenarios, so join us at Thai PBS World for trusted, detailed and accurate reporting from start to finish. 10.10am: House speaker orders closing of endorsement for Pita’s nomination and announced that 304 MPs endorsed the nomination and that Pita is the sole candidate for the position of PM. 9.55am : Move Forward MPs Rangsiman Rome and Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn take turns to protest Akaradej, saying the Parliament is in the process of nominating Pita as the premier. 9.46am: Democrat MP Akaradej Wongpitakroj protests saying the re-nomination of Pita to the premiership violates the Parliament’s regulation as it could be tantamount to submitting a repeat motion in a single parliamentary session. 9.45am: Wan Muhamad asks MPs to endorse Pita’s nomination. 9.40am: Pheu Thai MP Sutin Klungsang nominates Move Forward Party Pita Limjaroenrat for prime minister. 9.32am: House Speaker Wan Muhamad Noor Matha opens the joint sitting of parliament. Full story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/as-it-happens-pitas-second-shot-at-becoming-pm/ -- © Copyright Thai PBS 2023-07-19 - 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 FDA warns against personal use of dengue testing kits amid increasing cases by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of rmi.edu.pk In an urgent public appeal, Thailand’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA) cautioned against personal use of dengue testing kits. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301075-thailand’s-fda-warns-against-personal-use-of-dengue-testing-kits-amid-increasing-cases/

In an urgent public appeal, Thailand’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA) cautioned against personal use of dengue testing kits. These kits, while acknowledged for their efficacy, have been approved for use by healthcare professionals only due to the complexity of dengue detection. Lertchai Lertwut, the deputy secretary-general of the FDA, underscored that accurate diagnosis of dengue fever demands more than just the isolation of the virus. It requires a comprehensive medical examination and clinical assessment conducted by trained medical doctors. Lertwut said… “Dengue fever diagnosis can be made using various methods such as RT-PCR, antibody tests, Dengue Virus Antigen Detection (NS1), and dengue testing kits.” by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of rmi.edu.pk Full story: https://thethaiger.com/news/national/thailands-fda-warns-against-personal-use-of-dengue-testing-kits-amid-increasing-cases -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-07-19 - 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.

Monsoon forecast triggers flood alerts across Thailand, mariners advised caution by Samantha Rose Picture courtesy of vecstock, Freepik The Thai Meteorological Department forecasted inclement weather for the next 24 hours due to a strong southwesterly monsoon hovering over the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301074-monsoon-forecast-triggers-flood-alerts-across-thailand-mariners-advised-caution/

The Thai Meteorological Department forecasted inclement weather for the next 24 hours due to a strong southwesterly monsoon hovering over the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand. This has resulted in widespread thunderstorms and scattered heavy rains, particularly in the northeast and central regions of the country. Some areas in the eastern and southern regions are expected to face very heavy downpours. Residents in these areas are advised to prepare for potential flash floods and fast-running forest runoff, especially in areas near mountain slopes, waterways, and flood-prone zones. The conditions at sea are unsettling, with waves reaching a height of 2 to 3 metres in the upper part of the Andaman Sea and the Gulf. Where thunderstorms are occurring, wave heights could exceed 3 metres. Mariners are being cautioned to tread with care, avoid thunderstorm areas, and refrain from venturing out in small boats. Moreover, tropical storm Talim has weakened into a tropical depression in the vicinity of Bắc Kạn province, Vietnam and is moving westwards. This cyclone is expected to further weaken into a low-pressure area in the upper parts of Vietnam, reported Sanook. by Samantha Rose Picture courtesy of vecstock, Freepik Full story: https://thethaiger.com/hot-news/weather/monsoon-forecast-triggers-flood-alerts-across-thailand-mariners-advised-caution -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-07-19 - 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 and Russian FMs Meet in Phuket to Discuss Regional and Global Issues By Goongnang Suksawat PRESS RELEASE: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that Caretaker Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Don Pramudwinai held a meeting with visiting Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on the southern island of Phuket on Saturday (15 July). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301073-thai-and-russian-fms-meet-in-phuket-to-discuss-regional-and-global-issues/

Heightened security around Parliament, Constitutional Court ahead of protests on Wednesday Supporters of the Move Forward party, among them the “United Front for Thammasat and Demonstration”, “Respect My Vote” and “We Volunteer”, plan to gather at the Democracy monument at 5pm today in protest against senators. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301072-heightened-security-around-parliament-constitutional-court-ahead-of-protests-on-wednesday/

Supporters of the Move Forward party, among them the “United Front for Thammasat and Demonstration”, “Respect My Vote” and “We Volunteer”, plan to gather at the Democracy monument at 5pm today in protest against senators. The groups is urging members of the public to wear black and join the protest. Meanwhile, Arnon Nampa, of Thai Lawyers for Human Rights, has posted a message on social media, thanking supporters from Europe who have provided food for demonstrators at the Democracy monument this evening. Cargo containers have been in place around the parliament building since 1am this morning. Police have declared a 50-metre radius around the building off-limits to all protesters. This measure is effective until midnight of July 21st. Full story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/heightened-security-around-parliament-constitutional-court-ahead-of-protests-on-wednesday/ -- © Copyright Thai PBS 2023-07-19 - 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.

Pita and his “devil may care” attitude By Thepchai Yong What is most frustrating about negotiations among the eight political parties forming the post-election coalition is what is seen as the “devil may care” attitude of its key player, the Move Forward Party, according to sources involved in the ongoing talks. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301071-pita-and-his-“devil-may-care”-attitude/

What is most frustrating about negotiations among the eight political parties forming the post-election coalition is what is seen as the “devil may care” attitude of its key player, the Move Forward Party, according to sources involved in the ongoing talks. They said it was obvious from the very beginning that Move Forward leader Pita Limjaroenrat was not willing to modify his party’s stand on modifying the lèse majesté law, despite heavy lobbying by its political partners. “That makes the negotiations so frustrating,” said a source involved in the series of talks among the eight political parties. The source told Thai PBS World that Pita is openly confident in the popular support that helped his party win the most House seats in the recent general election. By Thepchai Yong Full story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/pita-and-his-devil-may-care-attitude/ -- © Copyright Thai PBS 2023-07-19 - 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.

Ayutthaya farmer dies in motorcycle crash a week after recovering from previous accident by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A farmer‘s late-night return trip ended in tragedy when his motorcycle swerved off the road and collided with a tree. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301070-ayutthaya-farmer-dies-in-motorcycle-crash-a-week-after-recovering-from-previous-accident/

Indian tourists to overtake Chinese, Thai PM showdown Take #2 : Tim Newton Today - July 19 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301069-indian-tourists-to-overtake-chinese-thai-pm-showdown-take-2-tim-newton-today-july-19/

Thailand News - Travellers from India are expected to overtake Chinese high spenders as the most numerous visitors to Thailand, Suga from BTS visits Phuket and travels with 5 Star Marine. US man arrested in Rawai, Phuket over alleged sexual abuse of a 9 year old, Kalasin shakedown by 5 police goes wrong when the victim kept her phone rolling, Pita's Take 2 bid for the role of Thai PM, but likely to be stymied by the Senate again as Pheu Thai get ready to pounce on the situation and form the next government. Link to the vlog of Suga from BTS travelling with 5 Star Marine... [SUGA VLOG] D-DAY... Tim Newton Today is a daily take on Thai and regional news and issues of interest to expats and foreign tourists. With thanks to our sponsor 5 Star Marine in Phuket for premium, private charters. Click on this link for a special offer for TNT viewers... https://5starmarinephuket.com/tim/ TIMESTAMPS 0:00 - It was a dark and stormy night... in Phuket 1:20 - Indians to replace Chinese as the most numerous visitors to Thailand 5:05 - 5 Star Marine host BTS member Suga on a trip to the islands off Phuket 5:58 - American arrested at Phuket Airport for overstaying 6:48 - 30 year old American arrested in Rawai, Phuket for alleged sexual assault 10:05 - Today's political preview for the next round of voting for Thai PM

Mysterious Bullet Pierces Through Glass at Phuket School By Goongnang Suksawat Phuket – A mysterious bullet pierced through glass at a school in Phuket town while students were learning in a classroom. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301065-mysterious-bullet-pierces-through-glass-at-phuket-school/

South Pattaya Residents Fed Up with Restaurants Allegedly Throwing Trash in Canal By Tanakorn Panyadee PHOTO: TMN Cable TV Pattaya Pattaya — Residents in South Pattaya are frustrated with canal-side restaurants for allegedly disposing of wastewater and trash in the canal water. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301063-south-pattaya-residents-fed-up-with-restaurants-allegedly-throwing-trash-in-canal/

Railway Barrier Malfunctions Pose Danger in Chonburi Residents of Na Pa in Mueang district, Chonburi province are facing a perilous situation as the railway crossing barrier frequently malfunctions. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301054-railway-barrier-malfunctions-pose-danger-in-chonburi/

Thai drug crime: Over 1000 suspects nabbed in major Thai southern provinces by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Freepik In a sweeping operation against Thai drug crime, spanning seven southern provinces, over a thousand suspects have been put behind bars. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301047-thai-drug-crime-over-1000-suspects-nabbed-in-major-thai-southern-provinces/

Culture ministry plans to boost Thai tourism through Korean TV series popularity by Mitch Connor Photo: King the Land, netflix.com The Thai Culture Ministry has voiced its intentions of capitalising on the increased popularity of Thai locations, brought on by their appearance in the latest Korean television series, ‘King the Land.’ Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301045-culture-ministry-plans-to-boost-thai-tourism-through-korean-tv-series-popularity/

The Thai Culture Ministry has voiced its intentions of capitalising on the increased popularity of Thai locations, brought on by their appearance in the latest Korean television series, ‘King the Land.’ Recognising this upswing in interest, the ministry plans to attract more Korean tourists and fans of the drama to these specific sites, boosting Thai tourism. Culture Minister Itthiphol Kunplome attributed the ongoing popularity of these locations to the TV series, which he said had highlighted the charm of Thailand while simultaneously providing an uptick in Thai tourism. “We wanted to praise King the Land as it helps represent and promote Thai cultures and our way of life to international audiences,” he stated. “We encourage those who are watching the series to visit Thailand and visit the locations where it was shot.” The shooting locations for this series were not limited to Thailand and also included several areas of Seoul. In Thailand, several key Bangkok sites including Wat Arun, Loha Prasat in Wat Ratchanadda, Wat Pak Nam Phasi Charoen, the Giang Swing, and Ong Ang Canal were showcased. Famous city areas such as Khao San Road, Iconsiam, Siam Square, and Asiatique the Riverfront received screen time as well. High-end locations such as Siri Sala Private Thai Villa and Mandarin Oriental Bangkok Hotel, and numerous Thai eateries, most notably the Vertigo & Moon Bar at Banyan Tree Hotel and the Ancient City in Samut Prakan, were also featured extensively, significantly highlighting Thai tourism. by Mitch Connor Photo: King the Land, netflix.com -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-07-19 - 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.

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Wednesday 19 July 2023 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301044-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-wednesday-19-july-2023/

MP’s and non elected senators will today, debate and should then vote for a second time to either endorse or oppose Mr Pita as the next prime minister, if defeated the Pheu Thai party is expected to nominate their man Mr Srettha Thavi-sin for prime minister tomorrow. A drug courier has been arrested with more than 4 million speed pills . The 49 year old from Saraburi was apprehended just outside KHON KAEN after police stopped his Honda CRV at a checkpoint, here they found the drugs inside 10 fertilizer sacks. A 31 year old man from Uttaradit has been arrested for duping a woman in a romance scam — by posing as a Vietnamese military physician attached to Nato. she fell in love with him and was persuaded into transferring some 60, 000 baht to pay for his move to Thailand. She was notified by police after funds had been sent to an account used by fraudsters. Police in Kalasin have launched an investigation into an alleged abduction of a woman by 5 police officers, they falsely accused her of possessing drugs and demanded 50,000 baht to let her go. The woman managed to video some of the events and eventually gave the men 30,000 baht plus money they found in her room. A regional police chief ordered karasin police to explain what happened after the video was shown on TV. Around the Region: Malaysian police said they were investigating the disappearance of a Myanmar pro-democracy activist and her family, who rights groups allege were the victims of a brazen kidnap a fortnight ago from their home in Kuala Lumpur by men pretending to be police. All were registered as UNHCR refugees and were taken from an enclosed compound on 4th July. The weather: rain coming in from Myanmar also from the north east Chiang Mai and the north: Cloudy, with thundershowers 35C Bangkok: Cloudy, with thundershowers 32C Pattaya, Cloudy with thundershowers 31C Phuket and the south: Cloudy with thundershowers 29C ‘Hua Hin’ :Bright but cloudy, 31C. 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 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 -- © Copyright SURF 102.5 FM 2023-07-19 - 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.

Temple incident: Monk prompts killing of dog in Chiang Mai causes public outrage by Samantha Rose Photo courtesy of 123rf.com A shocking incident at a temple in Saming Nuea, Chiang Mai, saw the temple’s leading monk command a follower to shoot and kill a dog, according to an anonymous source on July 17. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1301043-temple-incident-monk-prompts-killing-of-dog-in-chiang-mai-causes-public-outrage/