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UPDATE: Prayut bows out, nods to a new era dawning. Outgoing PM emphasised stability of his tenure by Joseph O' Connor An emotional departing statement from outgoing Prime Minister Prayut Chan Ocha suggested he was proud of leaving behind a record of stability, financial prudence and care for the vulnerable. It comes just hours before a decisive parliamentary meeting to elect the kingdom’s 30th Prime Minister with a stark choice between a new era or a potential political crisis. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1300380-prayut-quits-politics/?do=findComment&comment=18198017

Prayut bows out, nods to a new era dawning. Outgoing PM emphasised stability of his tenure by Joseph O' Connor An emotional departing statement from outgoing Prime Minister Prayut Chan Ocha suggested he was proud of leaving behind a record of stability, financial prudence and care for the vulnerable. It comes just hours before a decisive parliamentary meeting to elect the kingdom’s 30th Prime Minister with a stark choice between a new era or a potential political crisis. General Prayut highlighted his government’s record of stable management of the country and financial prudence while always paying attention to the need to protect the vulnerable when it came to policy and decisions including at times of crisis. Just days ahead of the key vote in parliament which may either elect 43-year-old Move Forward Party leader Pita Limjaroenrat as Prime Minister ushering in a new era in Thai politics or a political stalemate which could plunge the country into a vortex of instability, the caretaker Prime Minister Prayut Chan ocha who has been in the hot seat since the coup d’état in May 2014, announced his resignation from politics. Prime Minister Prayut Chan Ocha, on Tuesday, formally announced his resignation from politics. It comes days before a decisive vote in Parliament to select Thailand’s next Prime Minister with uncertainty as to whether the candidacy of Move Forward Party leader Mr Pita Limjaroenrat will be successful even though he is supported by an eight-party coalition representing 72% of voters in the May 14th General Election. Full story: https://www.thaiexaminer.com/thai-news-foreigners/2023/07/11/prayut-chan-och-bows-out-as-pm-nods-to-a-new-era-dawning-pita/ -- © Copyright Thai Examiner 2023-07-12 - 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 Wednesday 12 July 2023 https://aseannow.com/topic/1300389-thailand-live-wednesday-12-july-2023/

Two Germans Arrested In Murder Of Businessman by TNR Staff Masked photo of Mr. Olaf Thorsten Brinkmann with an image of murder victim Mr. Hans-Peter Mack inset. Photo: Matichon TWO Germans wanted in the murder and dismemberment of a German businessman in Chonburi last week have been arrested with the third suspect, a Pakistani who holds Thai nationality, still being hunted, Matichon newspaper quoted police as saying late Tuesday evening (July 11). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1300390-two-germans-arrested-in-murder-of-businessman/

Outgoing Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha announced on Tuesday that he will leave politics and resign as a member of United Thai Nation Party. Prayut quits politics Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1300380-prayut-quits-politics/

Monk-led scam network dupes victims of 2 million baht posing as tax officials by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A man part of a scam network passing off as a tax official was today apprehended by cyber police forces at a renowned temple in Kamphaeng Phet province. The 46 year old suspect allegedly defrauded victims of over 2 million baht (US$57,414) through a deceptive application. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1300331-monk-led-scam-network-dupes-victims-of-2-million-baht-posing-as-tax-officials/

Tick-tock shock: Thai Customs admits time’s up for fake luxury watches in auction by Petch Petpailin Photo via ThaiPost In a startling revelation, the Thai Customs Department acknowledged they sold fake luxury watches in one of their auctions. Consequently, the authorities took swift action by cancelling the auction and promising to refund the money to all affected buyers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1300330-tick-tock-shock-thai-customs-admits-time’s-up-for-fake-luxury-watches-in-auction/

In a startling revelation, the Thai Customs Department acknowledged they sold fake luxury watches in one of their auctions. Consequently, the authorities took swift action by cancelling the auction and promising to refund the money to all affected buyers. Three victims approached the media seeking assistance after they discovered they had unknowingly acquired counterfeit designer brand watches from the Thai Customs auction held on July 6. Placing their trust in the department, they never anticipated becoming victims of deceit. The fraudulent timepieces included two Richard Mille watches, one Patek Philippe, and one Rolex. According to the victims, these watches were obtained through a Thai Customs auction. Upon winning their bids, they collected their purchases the following day, only to realize that they had been duped with counterfeit products. One of the victims, 47 year old Pat Boondate, disclosed that she had acquired a Richard Mille RM07 No. 3287, a stunning timepiece adorned with diamonds around the outer ring of its case, for 2.2 million baht. Additionally, a relative of hers had purchased a Patek Philippe 5167 for 1.89 million baht. Pat considered these prices remarkably affordable compared to the estimated values, even for second-hand items. Pat further explained that she had been warned by many individuals to avoid buying goods from Thai Customs due to the prevalence of counterfeit products but she did not take the warnings. Pat expressed her fear and swore never to make another purchase from the department. by Petch Petpailin Photo via ThaiPost Full story: https://thethaiger.com/news/national/tick-tock-shock-thai-customs-admits-times-up-for-fake-luxury-watches-in-auction -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-07-11 - 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.

Agencies Hold Joint Exercise to Enhance Disaster Readiness by Paul Rujopakarn BANGKOK (NNT) - The Royal Thai Armed Forces Headquarters, via its Military Medicine Coordination Center and Military Command Center, has carried out a joint training exercise between the medical units of various agencies to enhance their preparedness. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1300323-agencies-hold-joint-exercise-to-enhance-disaster-readiness/

BANGKOK (NNT) - The Royal Thai Armed Forces Headquarters, via its Military Medicine Coordination Center and Military Command Center, has carried out a joint training exercise between the medical units of various agencies to enhance their preparedness. The disaster relief exercise was held at the Armed Forces Development Command in Phanom Sarakham District of Chachoengsao province. The training focused on the exchange of expertise among armed forces medical units. These included units from the Royal Thai Armed Forces Headquarters alongside the Royal Thai Army, Royal Thai Navy and Royal Thai Air Force, as well as the Royal Thai Police. The aim was to prepare the participating units for various scenarios and threats, while also allowing them to demonstrate their capabilities in carrying out medical missions during emergencies. The units were further tasked with demonstrating their ability to survive in emergency situations. 150 personnel participated in the exercise, which was also expected to foster good relations between the various medical units of the armed forces. Key activities simulated during the exercise included the management of mass casualty situations, medical service provisions amid environmental challenges, water rescue missions, air evacuations, and medical service responses to mass shooting incidents. The training undertaken was expected to improve the armed forces’ medical readiness and enable it to better coordinate operations during emergencies. Cooperation between medical units is also expected to lead to the sharing of human resources and medical equipment during future emergencies. by Paul Rujopakarn Source: https://thainews.prd.go.th/en/news/detail/TCATG230711112653559 -- © Copyright NNT 2023-07-11 - 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.

Repatriated Elephant Passes Health Check for Diseases by Paul Rujopakarn LAMPANG (NNT) - Sak Surin, the sickly elephant who recently returned to Thailand from Sri Lanka, has successfully passed his latest medical examination, clearing him of any elephant-related diseases. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1300321-repatriated-elephant-passes-health-check-for-diseases/

Public Urged to Prepare for Emergent ’Langya’ Virus by Paul Rujopakarn BANGKOK (NNT) - The Medical Genome Center has issued a warning to the public to brace for the ‘Langya’ virus, which is a species of henipavirus. The pathogen, which is being closely monitored by scientists worldwide and the World Health Organization (WHO), has potential ramifications for global health. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1300320-public-urged-to-prepare-for-emergent-’langya’-virus/

BANGKOK (NNT) - The Medical Genome Center has issued a warning to the public to brace for the ‘Langya’ virus, which is a species of henipavirus. The pathogen, which is being closely monitored by scientists worldwide and the World Health Organization (WHO), has potential ramifications for global health. Associate Professor Dr Wasan Chantratita Head of the Virology Laboratory and Medical Genomic Center at Ramathibodi Hospital of Mahidol University, explained that the Henipavirus group are zoonotic viruses which can transfer from animals to humans. The virus was first identified in 35 farmers of China’s Zantong and Hebei provinces between 2018 and 2022. The emergence of the new disease requires close attention due to research data suggesting that the virus’s spike protein can bind to human cells. This has raised concerns about a potential increase in transmission rates and similarities with the COVID-19 coronavirus, as it may spread from animals to humans and eventually through human-to-human transmissions. Despite last week’s daily COVID cases nearly halving from the previous week, doctors are continuing to emphasize the importance of receiving booster vaccinations. Dr Wasan nevertheless assured that Thailand is ready to respond to health threats, such as by utilizing clinical metagenomics technology to detect infectious diseases of unknown origins. Potential medical countermeasures for combating viruses include decoding their genomes, which can produce results within 24-48 hours. This in turn allows for timely control, prevention and treatment of emergent or recurrent diseases that pose a potential threat to the public. by Paul Rujopakarn Source: https://thainews.prd.go.th/en/news/detail/TCATG230711104853528 -- © Copyright NNT 2023-07-11 - 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 hill tribe locals rope in ‘human counterweights’ for trucks on steep roads by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Social media users have been left puzzled and amused by a unique sight on the roads of Phu Tab Berk, Phetchabun. They observed a woman perched on the bonnet of a pickup truck fully loaded with vegetables as it navigated steep slopes. The reports emerged on today through a TikTok user, who posted a video of the rather unusual scene. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1300319-thai-hill-tribe-locals-rope-in-‘human-counterweights’-for-trucks-on-steep-roads/

PTT and Qatar in Talks for 15-Year LNG Supply Deal by Tarin Angskul BANGKOK (NNT) - Thailand’s largest energy company, state-controlled PTT, is in advanced talks with Qatar for a 15-year liquefied natural gas (LNG) supply deal, according to Reuters. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1300318-ptt-and-qatar-in-talks-for-15-year-lng-supply-deal/

BANGKOK (NNT) - Thailand’s largest energy company, state-controlled PTT, is in advanced talks with Qatar for a 15-year liquefied natural gas (LNG) supply deal, according to Reuters. The oil and gas conglomerate is reportedly negotiating a supply of 1 or 2 million tonnes per annum (mtpa), in what would be the latest in a spate of deals by Asian buyers to lock in long-term supplies. One industry source said both sides are in "serious negotiations", but added that a deal isn’t expected before the end of summer. Qatar is the world’s top LNG exporter and competition for LNG has ramped up since the beginning of the war last year in Ukraine, with Europe in particular needing vast amounts to help replace piped gas from Russia that previously made up almost 40% of the continent’s imports. Asian companies, with an appetite for long-term sales and purchase agreements, have outpaced Europe in locking in supply from Qatar’s two-phase expansion plan that will raise its liquefaction capacity to 126 million metric tons a year by 2027 from 77 million. Traders say PTT has been seeking spot LNG cargoes this year, along with other companies in emerging Asian markets, after prices of the super-chilled fuel eased from last year’s record highs. PTT also signed a nine-year deal with Oman LNG at the start of the year, which will see it receive 800,000 tons of LNG per year beginning 2026. by Tarin Angskul Source: https://thainews.prd.go.th/en/news/detail/TCATG230711103257522 -- © Copyright NNT 2023-07-11 - 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: Missing German property broker’s decapitated body found in a freezer Thai police have issued warrants for the arrests of two German nationals, suspected of involvement in the murder of a German property broker, after his decapitated body was found in a freezer in a rented house in Bang Lamung district of the eastern province of Chon Buri early this morning (Tuesday). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1300288-body-of-missing-german-businessman-hans-peter-mack-found-dismembered-in-freezer-in-pattaya-rental-home/?do=findComment&comment=18196274

Thailand braces for 150,000 dengue fever cases by Mitch Connor Health authorities in Thailand issued a warning about a potentially significant outbreak of dengue fever in the country. Predicted figures from the Department of Disease Control (DDC) suggest that up to 150,000 instances of infection may occur by year-end. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1300312-thailand-braces-for-150000-dengue-fever-cases/

Health authorities in Thailand issued a warning about a potentially significant outbreak of dengue fever in the country. Predicted figures from the Department of Disease Control (DDC) suggest that up to 150,000 instances of infection may occur by year-end. Opas Karnkawinpong, the permanent secretary for public health, yesterday confirmed that this year has already seen a significant rise in dengue cases, with numbers exceeding 30,000 and resulting in 33 fatalities. Dr Opas was speaking at a seminar titled “Dengue: Effective Action for Treatment and Prevention,” held at Rajavithi Hospital. He said… “The ministry is highly concerned about the increasing number of dengue infections. They may reach up to 150,000 cases this year if preventive measures fail.” Dr Opas noted a shift in the demographic typically affected by the virus. Historically, children were most commonly infected, but now, the disease is also becoming widespread among adults and older members of the population. This could potentially be due to a lack of immunity in adults and older people who have previously not had the disease. by Mitch Connor Full story: https://thethaiger.com/news/national/thailand-braces-for-150000-dengue-fever-cases -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-07-11 - 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 foreign direct investment skyrockets with focus on EV industry by Alex Morgan Image by grafismedia from grafis media Investment attraction to Thailand has seen a remarkable surge in the first half of this year. The nation registered a 70% year-on-year increase to an impressive 364 billion baht, according to the Board of Investment (BoI). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1300311-thailand’s-foreign-direct-investment-skyrockets-with-focus-on-ev-industry/

Investment attraction to Thailand has seen a remarkable surge in the first half of this year. The nation registered a 70% year-on-year increase to an impressive 364 billion baht, according to the Board of Investment (BoI). This boost, particularly contributed by an astonishing 141% soar in foreign direct investment, serves as a testament to Thailand’s status as a preferred manufacturing hub for international firms. The investment escalation was marked by a rise in project applications totalling 891, marking an 18% rise compared to the equivalent period in 2022. The majority of these applications, 464 to be precise, fall under the prioritized industrial categories which account for a cumulative value of 287 billion baht, making up 79% of the total value of applications. These industries majorly include electronics, food processing, and automotive sectors with a special focus on the electric vehicle (EV) supply chain. Narit Therdsteerasukdi, Secretary-General of the BoI, said… “Investment applications in the first half show a positive trend and foreign investment in particular continued to increase at a very high rate, especially in electronics and EVs, which are among our priority sectors. by Alex Morgan Image by grafismedia from grafis media Full story: https://thethaiger.com/news/business/thailands-foreign-direct-investment-skyrockets-with-focus-on-ev-industry -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-07-11 - 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 News - a missing 62 year old German has been found in a freezer at a Pattaya rental home (cut into 13 parts), but he already has a sordid past in human trafficking in Pattaya, dramatic video from another road construction collapse, this time in Lat Krabang, east of Bangkok... two people killed. The outgoing PM and other officials have been named by a Chiang Mai administrative court for "neglecting their duties" during the height of this year's smoke and smog problems, but what happens next? A protest area is being set up outside the Thai parliament as Thursday's vote for a new Thai PM looms. Chinese EV car makers dominating the Thai car manufacturing investment landscape. Tim Newton Today, or TNT, is a daily review of the main news stories around Thailand and the region. CNA article about Thai economic and political landscape... https://www.channelnewsasia.com/comme... 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 - German businessman found dead, and cut up 'in pieces', in a freezer in Pattaya 2:11 - We've seen Mr Mack in the media before, over human trafficking charges 4:18 - Former PM Prayut Chan-o-cha has been found 'negligent' over Chiang Mai air pollution 7:15 - Road overpass construction collapses, killing 2, in Lat Krabang 9:49 - Bangkok officials prepare protest area ahead of Thursday's vote for new Thai PM 13:25 - Chinese EV car investment overtaking Japanese car-maker investment in Thailand

German man found ‘in pieces’, road construction collapse kills two : Tim Newton Today - July 11 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1300310-german-man-found-‘in-pieces’-road-construction-collapse-kills-two-tim-newton-today-july-11/

Although the rainy season has begun in Thailand, the threat of prolonged drought and water shortages is hovering on the horizon because of El Nino. The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), which monitors sea temperatures at over 200 locations, forecasts that El Nino – a change in the weather system that increases global temperatures – will drag on from now until at least February next year. Coupled with global warming, El Nino means Thailand must prepare for a longer dry season, more frequent hot days, and drought. Hardest hit will be Thailand’s East and South. Worst scenario: Double El Nino Dr Thon Thamrongnawasawat, deputy dean of Kasetsart University’s Faculty of Fisheries, confirms that El Nino has already arrived. On Facebook he explained that the rainy season in Thailand’s North, Northeast and Central regions usually has two phases. “This year, the first phase has already ended and rainfall was 20% lower than normal,” he said. With the latter phase due to start around the middle of August, it remains unclear how much water the country will be able to store for the coming dry season. Full story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/el-nino-will-expose-thailands-lack-of-defense-against-climate-change-experts/ -- © Copyright Thai PBS 2023-07-11 - 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.

El Nino will expose Thailand’s lack of defense against climate change: experts Although the rainy season has begun in Thailand, the threat of prolonged drought and water shortages is hovering on the horizon because of El Nino. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1300309-el-nino-will-expose-thailand’s-lack-of-defense-against-climate-change-experts/