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Bhumjaithai MP Chada Thaised stole the limelight from Thailand’s top PM candidate Pita Limjaroenrat during the joint parliamentary meeting to elect a new prime minister on Thursday. Chada’s fiery speech – which fiercely defended the monarchy and attacked Pita’s policy to amend the lese majeste law – made headlines and caught the attention of Thai politics watchers. Father, mother, brother murdered Born in 1961 to a Muslim family, Chada grew up in Uthai Thani. His grandfather migrated from Pakistan before settling in the northern province. His granddad was a major beef trader in the province, but Chada’s father launched into the lumber trade before switching back to selling and even exporting beef. Full story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/chada-thaised-ferocious-opponent-of-pitas-pm-bid-has-a-dark-and-violence-racked-history/ -- © Copyright Thai PBS 2023-07-17 - 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 ready to step aside if his party fails to win senators’ hearts Move Forward party leader Pita Limjaroenrat said today (Saturday) that he is ready to step aside and let the Pheu Thai party take the lead in forming the next government, if his party fails, after trying their utmost, to get him selected as prime minister or to amend the Constitution to clip senators’ wings. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1300810-pita-ready-to-step-aside-if-his-party-fails-to-win-senators’-hearts/

Move Forward party leader Pita Limjaroenrat said today (Saturday) that he is ready to step aside and let the Pheu Thai party take the lead in forming the next government, if his party fails, after trying their utmost, to get him selected as prime minister or to amend the Constitution to clip senators’ wings. In the meantime, he urged the Thai people to join him in a nation-wide campaign to win over the hearts and minds of the senators, so they support his prime ministerial candidacy or the Move Forward Party’s constitutional amendment bill, to strip senators of their power to select the prime minister. Pita insists on the party’s obligation to the people to form the government, noting that there is not much time and Thailand cannot move forward without a government. Full story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/pita-ready-to-step-aside-if-his-party-fails-to-win-senators-hearts/ -- © Copyright Thai PBS 2023-07-17 - 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.

Probe ordered into large amount of missing Navy ammunition The Royal Thai Navy (RTN) has ordered an investigation into tens of thousands of rounds of ammunition and grenades missing from a Marine Corps armoury at the Sattahip naval base. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1300809-probe-ordered-into-large-amount-of-missing-navy-ammunition/

Swinging into trouble: Golfer faces prosecution for ‘fore’-bidden activity in Thai national park (video) by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Varawut Silpa-archa, Facebook In a bid to uphold the sanctity of national parks, Thai authorities at Khao Yai National Park are preparing to prosecute a golfer who dared to engage in sporting activity such as illegal golfing within the protected vicinity of Sai Sorn Reservoir. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1300807-swinging-into-trouble-golfer-faces-prosecution-for-‘fore’-bidden-activity-in-thai-national-park-video/

In a bid to uphold the sanctity of national parks, Thai authorities at Khao Yai National Park are preparing to prosecute a golfer who dared to engage in sporting activity such as illegal golfing within the protected vicinity of Sai Sorn Reservoir. This reservoir, nestled within the heart of the national park, is not only home to a diverse array of wildlife but also a popular spot for visitors. The news surfaced yesterday when evidence of the golfer’s transgression was discovered by a high-ranking park official, Kittichai Roongpaiboonwong. Following a tip-off about illegal golfing activity within the park boundaries, Kittichai and his team embarked on an inspection. The telltale signs they discovered included a pair of golf balls, traces of a golf tee, and noticeable damage to the grass in the area, clearly pointing towards golfing practice. Further concrete evidence came in the form of a social media post by the unidentified golfer, who had posted on Facebook on July 14 stating that he was at the Sai Sorn Reservoir at 2pm, reported Bangkok Post. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Varawut Silpa-archa, Facebook Full story: https://thethaiger.com/news/national/thai-golfer-faces-prosecution-for-illegal-play-in-khao-yai-national-park -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-07-17 - 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.

to continue: Thailand Live Monday 17 July 2023 https://aseannow.com/topic/1300806-thailand-live-monday-17-july-2023/

Kuwaiti Motorbike Racer in Pattaya Nearly Loses His Leg in Motorbike Accident By Tanakorn Panyadee Pattaya — A 19-year-old Kuwaiti man sustained a severe leg injury after the motorbike he was riding as a pillion grazed against a street barrier on South Pattaya Road early this morning. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1300805-kuwaiti-motorbike-racer-in-pattaya-nearly-loses-his-leg-in-motorbike-accident/

Deputy National Police Chief General Surachate Hakparn, or Big Joke, has ordered a survey of organised crime activity in Pattaya, a crackdown and stricter screening of visas for foreigners in the wake of chilling details emerging related to the murder of 62-year-old Hans Peter Ralter Mack at the hands of an extortion gang led by 52-year-old Olaf Thorsten Brinkmann (inset right). Pattaya Hell: police believe that Hans Peter Ralter Mack was tortured and may have died from either horrific injuries at the hands of his tormentors or a heart attack due to the terror inflicted upon the 62-year-old German businessman. Crackdown ordered on organised crime in Pattaya, stricter visa screening after Ralter Mack murder by James Morris and Son Nguyen Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1300804-crackdown-ordered-on-organised-crime-in-pattaya-stricter-visa-screening-after-ralter-mack-murder/

Female Drug Suspect Dies In Fall From Police Station Window by TNR Staff Bang Kruai police station and the third-floor window from where the female suspect leapt to her death. Photo: Sanook A THAI woman arrested on drug trafficking charges died after jumping out of the third-floor window of Bang Kruai police station, Nonthaburi, yesterday (July 14), Naewna newspaper said. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1300716-female-drug-suspect-dies-in-fall-from-police-station-window/

Bangkok administration to tighten up controls on selection of contractors The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) may introduce a new set of guidelines for the selection of contractors to implement its major construction projects, in an effort to tighten up controls on construction sites relating to the environment, drainage systems and overweight trucks. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1300715-bangkok-administration-to-tighten-up-controls-on-selection-of-contractors/

Thai businesses call for swift government formation by Alex Morgan Supporters of the Move Forward Party hold posters reading "Cancel senators" during a protest in Bangkok, Thailand, Friday, July 14, 2023. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) A speedy establishment of a new administration is of paramount importance, according to the business community amid ongoing political uncertainty. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1300714-thai-businesses-call-for-swift-government-formation/

A speedy establishment of a new administration is of paramount importance, according to the business community amid ongoing political uncertainty. Chookiat Ophaswongse, an honorary president of the Thai Rice Exporters Association voiced concerns over the nebulous political situation, indicating the future of Move Forward Party leader Pita Limjaroenrat as the next prime minister is uncertain, making the country vulnerable to tension. “The stock market is likely to remain volatile, and we will have to wait and see if there will be any changes in the political factions forming a government. Regardless of which parties constitute the next government, the business environment should improve once it is established,” he stated. The current political void is likely to persist until the establishment of a new government. Foreign investors interested in Thailand could potentially adopt a ‘wait-and-see’ stance in this period, commented Chookiat. Adding to this, he insisted on peaceful political demonstrations to minimise impacts on the economy, thereby allowing rice exports to continue as usual. He estimated the average monthly export volume of rice to remain at 700,000 metric tonnes for the remainder of the year. by Alex Morgan Photo: Supporters of the Move Forward Party hold posters reading "Cancel senators" during a protest in Bangkok, Thailand, Friday, July 14, 2023. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Full story: https://thethaiger.com/news/business/thai-businesses-call-for-swift-government-formation -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-07-15 - 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 Senator to sue cyberbullies after Prime minister bid fallout by Mitch Connor Supporters of the Move Forward Party stage a protest in Bangkok, Thailand, Friday, July 14, 2023. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) In the face of escalating online threats against him and his kin, Senator Somchai Sawaengkan has announced he is preparing litigation against the cyber-bullies responsible. The threats transpired after the failed bid of Pita Limjaroenrat, head of the Move Forward Party (MFP), for the position of Prime Minister. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1300713-thai-senator-to-sue-cyberbullies-after-prime-minister-bid-fallout/

In the face of escalating online threats against him and his kin, Senator Somchai Sawaengkan has announced he is preparing litigation against the cyber-bullies responsible. The threats transpired after the failed bid of Pita Limjaroenrat, head of the Move Forward Party (MFP), for the position of Prime Minister. Yesterday, Somchai revealed that he, alongside other senators, is in the process of collating evidence required to take legal action against these figurative internet trolls. They believe that these individuals launched threats against the senators and their family members following a joint meeting which held a vote for the new Prime Minister on Thursday. Out of all the votes cast, only 13 senators supported the motion, whilst a majority of 159 chose to abstain, and a smaller grouping of 34 voted against it. In the course of the Parliament’s debate preceding the vote, Senator Somchai stated that he would not bestow his support on Pita Limjaroenrat for the coveted position. Somchai noted that ever since this day, a significant number of MFP supporters have resorted to posting malicious messages aimed at him and his family, with even his son’s Instagram account becoming a target. by Mitch Connor Top photo: Supporters of the Move Forward Party stage a protest in Bangkok, Thailand, Friday, July 14, 2023. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Full story: https://thethaiger.com/news/national/thai-senator-to-sue-cyberbullies-after-prime-minister-bid-fallout -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-07-15 - 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.

High-end watch demand increases among younger Thai generation by Alex Morgan Narun Thamavaranukup, the managing director of PMT The Hour Glass, Image courtesy of The Hour Glass via Facebook A constant evolution and inherent value have ensured a secure niche for high-end watches in today’s market, Narun Thamavaranukup, the managing director of watch distribution company, PMT The Hour Glass, avers. With smartphones ubiquitous, one might think wristwatches would lose their charm. However, as Thamavaranukup elucidates, these timepieces are more than mere instruments to tell time. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1300711-high-end-watch-demand-increases-among-younger-thai-generation/

A constant evolution and inherent value have ensured a secure niche for high-end watches in today’s market, Narun Thamavaranukup, the managing director of watch distribution company, PMT The Hour Glass, avers. With smartphones ubiquitous, one might think wristwatches would lose their charm. However, as Thamavaranukup elucidates, these timepieces are more than mere instruments to tell time. For Narun, watches play multiple roles – they are assets, investments and collectables. “Our watch business could remain sustainable for a decade even if we cease all marketing activities,” Narun enthusiastically stated, indicating the unwavering demand for watches in Thailand which he observes growing annually. His company experienced an unexpected effect of the pandemic over the last three years. More free time led to an increased interest in watch collecting, particularly amongst the younger generation, insists Narun. High-end watches are attracting a demographic significantly younger than that witnessed previously, with individuals aged between 25 and 35 years old now forming the fastest-growing segment. by Alex Morgan Top photo: Narun Thamavaranukup, the managing director of PMT The Hour Glass, Image courtesy of The Hour Glass via Facebook Full story: https://thethaiger.com/news/business/high-end-watch-demand-increases-among-younger-thai-generation -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-07-15 - 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 detects new coronavirus subvariant EG.5.1 by Mitch Connor File photo for reference only A new and rapidly spreading Coronavirus XBB subvariant, named EG.5.1, has been identified in Thailand, according to reports from the Department of Medical Sciences. Although fast-spreading, it has been observed to cause predominantly mild symptoms. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1300709-thailand-detects-new-coronavirus-subvariant-eg51/

A new and rapidly spreading Coronavirus XBB subvariant, named EG.5.1, has been identified in Thailand, according to reports from the Department of Medical Sciences. Although fast-spreading, it has been observed to cause predominantly mild symptoms. Remarkable insights came to light yesterday when the Head of the Department, Dr Supakit Sirilak revealed that five individuals had been diagnosed with this subvariant over the last three months. The first case was identified in April, whilst three cases were detected in May and a solitary case was found in June. Interestingly, none of these individuals developed severe symptoms. In a bid to offer a clearer understanding, Dr Supakit elaborated further. The EG.5.1 subvariant, also scientifically referred to as XBB.1.9.2.5.1, is linked to the Omicron subvariant XBB.1.9.2. Crucially, it exhibits a mutation in its spike proteins, namely S:F456L and S:Q52H. The outcome of such a mutation is a sharp increase in its speed of transmission – a shocking 45% more than that of subvariant XBB.1.16. by Mitch Connor File photo for reference only Full story: https://thethaiger.com/news/national/thailand-detects-new-coronavirus-subvariant-eg-5-1-with-speedy-transmission-rates -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-07-15 - 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.

Fitch affirms Thailand’s BBB+ rating, forecasts GDP and tourism growth by Alex Morgan File photo: Bangkok Having earned a reputation for shrewd financial forecasting, Fitch Ratings has given Thailand‘s long-term foreign-currency issuer default rating (IDR) a rating affirmation of BBB+ and a stable outlook. The judgement is largely influenced by a balance between the firm’s macroeconomic policy framework and sound external finances, gauged against some structural weaknesses like the lower per capita income and lower World Bank governance scores, as against other ‘BBB’ rated peers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1300708-fitch-affirms-thailand’s-bbb-rating-forecasts-gdp-and-tourism-growth/

Having earned a reputation for shrewd financial forecasting, Fitch Ratings has given Thailand‘s long-term foreign-currency issuer default rating (IDR) a rating affirmation of BBB+ and a stable outlook. The judgement is largely influenced by a balance between the firm’s macroeconomic policy framework and sound external finances, gauged against some structural weaknesses like the lower per capita income and lower World Bank governance scores, as against other ‘BBB’ rated peers. The political uncertainty casting a shadow on Thailand’s credit profile might experience some relief as soon as the enactment of a new prime minister is settled upon in parliament. Despite this, the country’s medium-term growth and fiscal consolidation plans still face possible threats due to demographic crunches. Predictions are swirling that Thailand may see a significant pickup in real GDP growth, from 2.6 percent in 2022 to 3.7 percent in 2023 and 3.8 percent in 2024. An expected recovery of the tourism sector, together with a revival in domestic consumption and a steady recovery of the labour market, is supposed to bolster the country’s economic prospects. International tourist arrivals in Thailand are anticipated to increase to about 29 million in 2023, nearly three-quarters of their pre-crisis level, from 11.2 million in 2022. This optimistic projection of the tourism recovery outlook rides on the back of China’s quick reopening. However, an effective policy implementation might face some hurdles in case the new government formation process stretches for several months. That notwithstanding, such a scenario is not expected to cause any major shifts in the government’s principal strategy aimed at economic development. by Alex Morgan File photo: Bangkok Full story: https://thethaiger.com/news/business/fitch-affirms-thailands-bbb-rating-forecasts-gdp-and-tourism-growth -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-07-15 - 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.

German expat in Thailand faces death penalty for premeditated murder by Mitch Connor Image courtesy of Bangkok Post Authorities in Thailand have officially charged a man with premeditated murder in connection to the gruesome killing of Hans Peter Walter Mack, a 62 year old German property broker residing in Chon Buri, significantly intensifying the legal implications for the prime suspect. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1300706-german-expat-in-thailand-faces-death-penalty-for-premeditated-murder/

Online calls for boycott of senators’ businesses top trending overnight Online community saw #ธุรกิจสว (Senator’s business) trending top overnight, after Move Forward supporters gathered information on businesses owned by senators and their families, with a focus on those who abstained or were absent from the voting on Pita Limjaroenrat’s prime ministerial candidacy on Thursday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1300700-online-calls-for-boycott-of-senators’-businesses-top-trending-overnight/

Online community saw #ธุรกิจสว (Senator’s business) trending top overnight, after Move Forward supporters gathered information on businesses owned by senators and their families, with a focus on those who abstained or were absent from the voting on Pita Limjaroenrat’s prime ministerial candidacy on Thursday. One Twitter user said that this is a way they can exercise their rights, by choosing to boycott certain businesses with links to senators. The concept even goes as far as erecting signage near those businesses to inform the public. People were, however, also strongly advised to be modest and careful in their comments on social media, since they could be charged under the Computer Crime Act, which stipulates that any person who damages, destroys, corrects, changes or amends another party’s computer data, either in whole or in part, shall be subject to imprisonment of up to five years and/or a fine of up to one hundred thousand baht. Full story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/online-calls-for-boycott-of-senators-businesses-top-trending-overnight/ -- © Copyright Thai PBS 2023-07-15 - 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.

Ex-village head assaults man in Chiang Mai restaurant, claims to be ‘biggest man’ by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of สัจธรรม น้ำใจงาม Facebook. A distressing incident involving a local claiming to be the “biggest man” in Mae Rim district’s Mueang Kaew sub-district, Chiang Mai, hit social media. The man, identified as a former village head, was recorded punching a young man from behind, resulting in the victim collapsing. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1300699-ex-village-head-assaults-man-in-chiang-mai-restaurant-claims-to-be-‘biggest-man’/