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Nonthaburi university hazing incident leads to severe injuries by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A brutal hazing incident at a prominent university in Nonthaburi has come to light, revealing the shocking abuse suffered by a freshman student. The victim’s parents have filed complaints against senior students involved in the violent initiation rituals. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335872-nonthaburi-university-hazing-incident-leads-to-severe-injuries/

A brutal hazing incident at a prominent university in Nonthaburi has come to light, revealing the shocking abuse suffered by a freshman student. The victim’s parents have filed complaints against senior students involved in the violent initiation rituals. The parents of a 20 year old student, referred to as Ton, reported the incident to Nonthaburi police, detailing the horrific treatment their son endured. Ton and his father were ambushed and assaulted by a group of over 10 senior students when they went to the university to withdraw Ton from his studies. The attack left Ton hospitalised in the ICU, while his father sustained multiple injuries. Ton had previously confided in his parents about the brutal hazing practices at the university, which included making freshmen sit with their hands tied behind their backs, being kicked in the chest, and being forced to bend forward with their heads touching the ground. More disturbingly, the seniors allegedly used spray paint and lighters to burn the genital area of both male and female freshmen. The hazing incidents occurred on August 15, around 11am, in front of a university building in Nonthaburi. Most recently, Ton and his parents returned to the police station yesterday, August 17 to provide additional testimony. They aimed to identify the seniors responsible for the barbaric initiation rituals. Police were also taken to a desolate area near Rattanathibet Road in Bang Rak Yai, Nonthaburi, where the hazing activities took place. The site, spanning approximately 20 rai, was littered with evidence, including spray paint cans, liquor bottles, and three knives, all of which were collected by the police. A well-known activist, Kan Jompalang, accompanied the police and Ton to the hazing site. Kan described the area as an outdoor training centre where freshmen were subjected to military-style drills and physical abuse. Those who failed to comply were sprayed and burned. University hazing Kan asserted that the group of seniors operated like a small criminal gang, collecting weekly funds to assist members in trouble. After enduring the abuse and being attacked again when trying to leave the university, Ton and his parents decided to involve the police, said Kan. “This is not just typical hazing; it’s criminal. They have a central fund, and they help each other out when in trouble. After Ton couldn’t tolerate the abuse anymore, his parents took him to withdraw from the university, but they were ambushed and assaulted. This is barbaric.” Kan also questioned the university’s responsibility, asking whether the leading perpetrators were still enrolled students. He highlighted that the attackers wore university uniforms and carried out the assaults on campus. Kan called for the university to take immediate action and implement measures to prevent such incidents in the future, reported KhaoSod. “The university claims not to support this behaviour, but it’s been happening for years. What measures are being taken to address this?” The police have assured full cooperation in the investigation. The Nonthaburi Provincial Police Commander pledged to assist and has called for a meeting with the Mueang Nonthaburi Police Chief to discuss the case. It is believed that the group consists of 40 to 50 members. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-19 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Monday 19 August 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335869-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-monday-19-august-2024/

Thailand's new Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, received her royal endorsement as the nation's 31st and youngest leader yesterday. She vowed to carry forward the policies of her predecessor, Srettha Thavisin. Her priorities include significant economic stimulus and reform, combating illegal drugs, enhancing the universal healthcare system, and promoting gender diversity. She also affirmed that the government will uphold its flagship digital wallet policy while exploring additional options. Former PM Thaksin Shinawatra is due to attend a Criminal Court hearing today in a lèse majesté case linked to an interview with South Korean media in 2015. Thaksin is Out on 500,000 baht bail and barred from leaving Thailand. the media will not be allowed into the courtroom today, but a press release is expected after the hearing. Health experts say the universal healthcare policy, namely the 30-baht gold card scheme, is unlikely to provide adequate security to every citizen, suggesting the scheme should be reformed to ensure financial sustainability. a network of hospitals and medical staff says the scheme has caused problems for state-owned hospitals. They now face increased patient visits, staff shortages and financial deficits. Local A shooting at a bar on soi 80 in Hua hin left one person dead and two others injured in the early hours of yesterday morning. The deceased was a 31-year-old intelligence officer from the Infantry School at Thana-rat Camp in Pranburi. The body was sent for an au topsy at Hua Hin Hospital. two other men were injured, one shot in the right arm and the other in the waist. The shooter a young police advisor then fled but later surrendered to police… The unlicensed bar owned by a so-called influential figure, was in disarray, with blood and broken bottles scattered around. CCTV footage was tampered with before authorities arrived. Todays Weather Chiang Mai and the north: cloudy, thundershowers 32C degrees celsius Bangkok: Bright, partly cloudy, thundershowers 35 Pattaya: Partly Cloudy 32 Phuket and the south: cloudy, thundershowers 29 Hua Hin: Sunny, partly cloudy 32C Much the same over the weekend . AQI: green which is good Green clear, yellow moderate, Orange High, Red unhealthy. Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Wunderground.com The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Windy.com. -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-08-19 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Workers Advised to Delay Travel to Israel and Lebanon Amid Escalating Tensions Picture courtesy: National News Bureau of Thailand The Ministry of Labor has issued a critical advisory urging Thai workers to delay their travel plans to Israel and Lebanon due to rising regional tensions. This comes in the wake of the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh on July 31 in Iran, which has stoked fears of increasing violence in the area. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335867-thai-workers-advised-to-delay-travel-to-israel-and-lebanon-amid-escalating-tensions/

Thailand's Ministry of Labor has issued a critical advisory urging Thai workers to delay their travel plans to Israel and Lebanon due to rising regional tensions. This comes in the wake of the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh on July 31 in Iran, which has stoked fears of increasing violence in the area. Director-General of the Department of Employment, Somchai Morakotsriwan, signed the urgent notice, which has been dispatched to all provincial governors. They have been advised to disseminate this information to workers considering travel to these countries. The security assessment was conducted through the Thai embassy in Tel Aviv, in conjunction with the Office of Labor Affairs in Tehran. According to the assessment, the situation remains highly unstable, necessitating an immediate and cautious response from all concerned. Caretaker Labor Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn has affirmed that the Ministry of Labor is vigilantly monitoring the situation. "For the safety of our workers, we strongly recommend postponing any travel plans to Israel and Lebanon until further notice," he stated. The official advisory has been in effect since Thursday and will continue until the security situation improves. Despite the current apprehensions in Israel and Lebanon, the Ministry of Labor has continued its robust overseas employment programs. This year, the ministry has a target of sending 100,000 Thai workers abroad. As of now, 77,918 workers have already been dispatched under the program. Additionally, the ministry has solidified its labor cooperation with South Korea, signing a two-year memorandum of understanding that aims to improve conditions for Thai workers. Under this new agreement, 8,688 Thai workers have traveled to South Korea this year, marking a significant increase of 3,888 compared to the previous year. The agreement also includes provisions for reduced waiting times between contracts and additional support for workers affected by natural disasters, thereby enhancing the overall welfare of Thai workers abroad. As the situation in the Middle East remains volatile, the Ministry of Labor continues to prioritize the safety and security of its workers, urging them to heed the latest advisory. Picture courtesy: National News Bureau of Thailand -- 2024-08-19 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

People's Party Gains Nearly 60,000 Members, Donations Exceed 25 Million Baht in 7 Days Picture courtesy: Thai Rath The People's Party has shown rapid growth with nearly 60,000 members and over £600,000 (25.4 million baht) in donations just seven days after its launch on 9th August 2024. The remarkable support highlights the public's confidence in the new political movement. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335866-peoples-party-gains-nearly-60000-members-donations-exceed-25-million-baht-in-7-days/

The People's Party has shown rapid growth with nearly 60,000 members and over £600,000 (25.4 million baht) in donations just seven days after its launch on 9th August 2024. The remarkable support highlights the public's confidence in the new political movement. On 18th August 2024, Sarayut Jainlak, the Secretary-General of the People's Party, disclosed that their membership number stood at an impressive 59,606 as of 16th August. Interestingly, nearly half (48%) of these members opted for lifetime membership, a stark contrast to the Move Forward Party, which has a lifetime membership rate of merely 7%. Sarayut expressed pride in this deeper level of commitment, indicating strong trust from supporters, reported Thai Rath. The influx of financial support has also been significant. Thailand's People's Party received donations totalling 25,451,968.02 baht (£600,000 approximately). These contributions came primarily through online platforms, amounting to 24,962,872.02 baht from 31,045 distinct donations, with an average donation of 804 baht. Offline donations were 489,096 baht from 431 donors, averaging 1,135 baht each. The data shows that most donations were made by small individual contributors, particularly within the 201-999 baht range. Sarayut assured that all donations comply with legal regulations, with thorough reporting to the Election Commission (EC). Additionally, donors can use their contributions, up to 10,000 baht, to reduce their tax liabilities. Looking forward, Sarayut revealed the party's ambitious goal to amass 100,000 members by the end of August 2024, aiming to match the membership numbers of the dissolved Move Forward Party. He emphasised the importance of broadening their reach across provinces to establish a nationwide presence. Currently, the majority of members are concentrated in major urban areas such as Bangkok, Nonthaburi, and Chiang Mai. The People's Party's next steps will be crucial as they work towards building a widespread and deeply-rooted political network, reflecting their growing influence and public endorsement. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-08-19 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Police Advisory Board Member Shoots and Kills Sergeant in Hua Hin Pub Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In a shocking incident last night, a drunken brawl at a popular Hua Hin pub led to the fatal shooting of Sergeant Major Rojchanaphon Rojchanaphanit, an intelligence officer at Thanarat Camp. The commotion at Tiny Club saw police commissioner Jakkrit Worawongphanitkul allegedly pulling a 9 mm. pistol, fatally shooting Sergeant Punch and injuring two other patrons. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335864-police-advisory-board-member-shoots-and-kills-sergeant-in-hua-hin-pub/

In a shocking incident last night, a drunken brawl at a popular Hua Hin pub led to the fatal shooting of Sergeant Major Rojchanaphon Rojchanaphanit, an intelligence officer at Thanarat Camp. The commotion at Tiny Club saw police commissioner Jakkrit Worawongphanitkul allegedly pulling a 9 mm. pistol, fatally shooting Sergeant Punch and injuring two other patrons. At approximately 4:00 a.m. on 18th August, Hua Hin Police Station received a report about a dispute turning violent in the bustling Tiny Club on Soi Hua Hin 80. Responders, including high-ranking officers and forensic teams, quickly arrived at the chaotic scene littered with broken bottles and a large pool of blood. Sergeant Punch, dressed casually, was found lying face-up, having suffered two lethal gunshot wounds to the chest. His sudden death plunged his family and fellow servicemen into mourning. Two more men were also injured in the crossfire and taken to a local hospital for treatment, reported Thai RAth. Witnesses recounted that the trouble brewed as the pub brimmed with over 50 revellers enjoying loud music and drinks. An argument between Mr. Sen, identified later as Jakkrit Worawongphanitkul, and Sergeant Punch escalated rapidly. In a fit of rage, Jakkrit allegedly drew his gun and fired at the Sergeant before stray bullets hit two bystanders, causing patrons to flee in panic. Jakkrit, an advisor to the Hua Hin Police Station, surrendered himself that same morning, presenting the firearm used in the altercation. He faces charges of intentional murder and illegal firearm possession. Despite denying the charges, he was denied bail pending further investigation and court proceedings. Authorities noted that Tiny Club, operated by an influential local figure, lacked a business license and stayed open well past legal hours, with lax security allowing firearms inside. Police are pursuing legal action against the pub owner and scrutinising CCTV footage, which seems to have been tampered with post-incident. The tragic death of Sergeant Punch, who was remembered fondly by acquaintances and on social media, underscores the seriousness of preventing such lethal confrontations. The incident has left the Hua Hin community in shock and sparked an urgent review of security measures in local nightlife venues. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-08-19 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Jealous Man Kills Trans Woman in Mall on Koh Samui Picture courtesy: Daily News At 4:35 p.m. on August 18, the 191 Emergency Call Center received a report of a stabbing incident at a well-known mall on Koh Samui, with one person severely injured. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335863-jealous-man-kills-trans-woman-in-mall-on-koh-samui/

At 4:35 p.m. on August 18, the 191 Emergency Call Center received a report of a stabbing incident at a well-known mall on Koh Samui, with one person severely injured. Emergency responders arrived at the scene to find Rinrada, a 23-year-old trans woman from Bo Phut, Koh Samui, lying in a pool of blood. Despite immediate efforts by rescue workers to transport her to Thai International Hospital, she was pronounced dead upon arrival. Investigations revealed that Rinrada had been stabbed seven times in vital areas, leading to significant blood loss and her eventual death, repried Daily News. The suspect, Chokchai Intharak, 23, from Thung Tao Mai, Ban Na San, Surat Thani, was detained by mall security. Chokchai had injured himself with the knife used in the attack on Rinrada. Police took him into custody and provided treatment for his injuries. Pol Col Den Duang Thongsrisuk, the Chief of Bo Phut Police Station, questioned Chokchai about the incident. Chokchai admitted that he had been in a relationship with Rinrada for over two months. Their relationship was marked by constant arguments over jealousy, as Rinrada frequently teased Chokchai with pictures of other men. On the day of the attack, Chokchai had transferred money to Rinrada to buy motorcycle accessories, including a shock absorber and brake line. However, when Rinrada failed to deliver the brake line and showed Chokchai a picture of another man, claiming he was her new boyfriend, Chokchai's anger boiled over. He went to the mall where Rinrada worked and used the brake line he had bought to strike her. When Rinrada fought back and took the brake line away, Chokchai drew a knife he had brought with him and attacked her in a fit of rage. The police are now pursuing legal action against Chokchai Intharak. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-08-19 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Lone robber escapes with 200,000 baht in gold from Bangkok shop Police have launched a manhunt for a lone male suspect who robbed a gold shop in a Ratchadapisek shopping mall in Bangkok’s Huai Khwang district. He took a five-baht weight (75.8g) solid gold bracelet, worth about 200,000 baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335860-lone-robber-escapes-with-200000-baht-in-gold-from-bangkok-shop/

Police have launched a manhunt for a lone male suspect who robbed a gold shop in a Ratchadapisek shopping mall in Bangkok’s Huai Khwang district. He took a five-baht weight (75.8g) solid gold bracelet, worth about 200,000 baht. According to witnesses, the suspect wore a white cap, face mask, black T-shirt and black trousers. He carried a shoulder bag. He was spotted walking near the gold shop, located on the second floor of the mall, a couple of times before walking into the shop. A shop employee claimed that the robber asked to see a gold bracelet, which he examined for a while before leaving without buying it. He returned about 10 minutes later and asked to see a bigger bracelet, claiming that he wanted to buy it for his girlfriend. Full story: Thai PBS 2024-08-19 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Man Arrested after Trying to Sexually Assault Woman at Dental Clinic in Phuket By Goongnang Suksawat Phuket: A man has been arrested after he was trying to sexually assault a female customer who was waiting inside a dental clinic in Rassada. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335859-man-arrested-after-trying-to-sexually-assault-woman-at-dental-clinic-in-phuket/

Phuket: A man has been arrested after he was trying to sexually assault a female customer who was waiting inside a dental clinic in Rassada. The Phuket City Police were notified of the incident on Friday (August 16th) at 7:20 P.M. from an unidentified dental clinic located on the Rassada Ramluek Road. They arrived at the clinic to find the victim and staffers who told police that the prime suspect was chased away by witnesses outside the clinic. Police checked CCTV footage in the clinic and saw that the suspect who seemed to be intoxicated entered the clinic and staffers asked him if he needed dental assistance as they thought he was a customer. The suspect then instead, however, asked the clinic for some money. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-08-19 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Government Enforces Strict Measures on Illegal Employment Practices By Kittisak Phalaharn On August 17th, 2024, Mr. Somchai Morakotsriwan, the Director-General of the Department of Employment, announced the “Locate, Arrest, Fine, and Deport” operation targeting illegal migrant workers. This nationwide effort involves collaboration between all relevant agencies. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335858-thai-government-enforces-strict-measures-on-illegal-employment-practices/

On August 17th, 2024, Mr. Somchai Morakotsriwan, the Director-General of the Department of Employment, announced the “Locate, Arrest, Fine, and Deport” operation targeting illegal migrant workers. This nationwide effort involves collaboration between all relevant agencies. The operation, which includes Thailand's Immigration Bureau, Tourist Police, Anti-Human Trafficking Division, and the Internal Security Operations Command from all provinces, aims to inspect, arrest, and prosecute employers and businesses that hire illegal foreign workers, according to Somchai. It also seeks to educate employers and foreign workers on legal compliance and government resolutions over a 120-day period, said Somchai. From June 5th to August 15th, 2024, covering 71 days, inspections were conducted in key economic areas such as Bangkok’s Phetchaburi Road, Suwinthawong, Saphan Sung, Lat Krabang, and Taling Chan, as well as in provinces like Uthai Thani, Ang Thong, Rayong, and Phetchaburi. A total of 14,734 businesses employing migrant workers were inspected nationwide, leading to 503 prosecutions. Authorities checked 192,280 foreign workers, including 144,261 from Myanmar, 29,448 from Cambodia, 12,258 from Laos, 117 from Vietnam, and 6,196 from other nationalities. Of these, 1,314 workers faced legal action—818 from Myanmar, 201 from Cambodia, 180 from Laos, 24 from Vietnam, and 91 from other countries. Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-08-19 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe By Kittisak Phalaharn

Paetongtarn Shinawatra Faces Digital Wallet Integrity Test Thailand newly elected Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra arrives before the royal endorsement ceremony appointing Paetongtarn as Thailand's new prime minister at Pheu Thai party headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand, Sunday, Aug. 18, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Newly-appointed Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra stands at a crucial juncture, facing intense scrutiny over Pheu Thai Party’s flagship policy: the Digital Wallet scheme. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335857-paetongtarn-shinawatra-faces-digital-wallet-integrity-test/

Thailand newly elected Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra arrives before the royal endorsement ceremony appointing Paetongtarn as Thailand's new prime minister at Pheu Thai party headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand, Sunday, Aug. 18, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Newly-appointed Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra stands at a crucial juncture, facing intense scrutiny over Pheu Thai Party’s flagship policy: the Digital Wallet scheme. This programme, designed to boost the Thai economy by providing financial aid directly to the poor, is under the microscope, testing Paetongtarn’s integrity as a leader. The Digital Wallet initiative proposes giving digital money to Thai citizens to stimulate spending and economic growth. Proponents argue it will uplift the underprivileged and generate economic activity, while critics warn it could lead to long-term financial instability. Paetongtarn recently hinted that the scheme might need revisions, but her comments remain vague, leaving the media and public with more questions than answers. One of the primary issues is whether the Digital Wallet policy would genuinely benefit the poor or create more economic woes. Unlike her predecessor Srettha Thavisin, who defended the programme but provided no substantial evidence, Paetongtarn is expected to present a clear, rational defence. Failure to do so could tarnish her reputation and weaken public trust. Adding to her challenges is the ongoing controversy surrounding her father, Thaksin Shinawatra. Thaksin, a convicted former prime minister, faces legal charges even as Paetongtarn navigates her new role. This familial connection complicates her political standing, potentially positioning her for legal and constitutional pitfalls. Recently, the Constitutional Court removed Srettha Thavisin due to a Cabinet appointment issue, but his handling of the Thaksin matter also damaged his credibility. Paetongtarn's journey could be similarly fraught with complexities. How the legal system responds to these challenges will be telling regarding Thailand's political direction. In light of past tumultuous months, marked by political upheavals and policy reversals, the future appears uncertain. The next few weeks will be pivotal for Paetongtarn, as she balances defending controversial policies and maintaining political legitimacy amidst Thailand's turbulent political landscape. -- 2024-08-19 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thaksin Shinawatra Rejects Need for Official Advisor Role with New PM Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, left, hugs his daughter and newly elected Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra before the royal endorsement ceremony appointing Paetongtarn as Thailand's new prime minister at Pheu Thai party headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand, Sunday, Aug. 18, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has stated that he does not need to assume a formal advisory role for the new Prime Minister, his daughter Paetongtarn Shinawatra. According to Thaksin, his daughter can seek his counsel whenever necessary, given their familial relationship. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335856-thaksin-shinawatra-rejects-need-for-official-advisor-role-with-new-pm/

Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, left, hugs his daughter and newly elected Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra before the royal endorsement ceremony appointing Paetongtarn as Thailand's new prime minister at Pheu Thai party headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand, Sunday, Aug. 18, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has stated that he does not need to assume a formal advisory role for the new Prime Minister, his daughter Paetongtarn Shinawatra. According to Thaksin, his daughter can seek his counsel whenever necessary, given their familial relationship. Reflecting on their political journey, Thaksin mentioned that about 23 years ago, he led from the front with Paetongtarn standing behind him. Now, the roles have reversed, and he stands ready to support her from behind. Thaksin acknowledged the immense responsibility that comes with being Prime Minister but noted Paetongtarn's advantage of youth at 37, compared to his 74 years. He praised her gentle and humble nature, expressing confidence that she will garner the support and cooperation needed from all sectors of Thai society to drive the nation forward. He firmly denied any involvement in the formation of the new government, stating that this responsibility lies with Paetongtarn. Thaksin also reassured the public that his daughter's political career would not falter as his did. The forthcoming cabinet, mostly retaining members from the current Srettha government, will see some changes. Pheu Thai will hold 17 seats, Bhumjaithai eight, United Thai Nation and Palang Pracharath four each, and Chart Thai Pattana and Prachachart one each. Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira is reportedly at risk of losing his position, potentially replaced by his deputy, Julapun Amornvivat of the Pheu Thai party, unless another candidate is found. Additionally, Pheu Thai Secretary-General Sorawong Thienthong and party-list MP Khattiya Sawatdiphol might be appointed to cabinet positions. Industry Minister Pimpatra Wichaikul may be replaced by Akanat Promphan, Secretary-General of the United Thai Nation Party. Natural Resources and Environment Minister Patcharawat Wongsuwan of Palang Pracharath might also be replaced by Santi Promphat. -- 2024-08-19 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Paetongtarn Shinawatra officially becomes Thailand’s 31st prime minister Pheu Thai party leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra has officially become Thailand’s 31st prime minister today, following the granting of Royal assent by His Majesty the King. A ceremony was held this morning at the Voice Space building in Bangkok, the head office of the Pheu Thai party,where the Royal Command was read by the secretary-general of the House of Representatives Arpath Sukhanunth to Paetongtarn in front of a portrait of the King. Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who became a free man today, several senior members of the Pheu Thai party and selected guests were present at the ceremony. After the reading, the new prime minister said that she is honoured, proud and grateful for being royally appointed. She vowed that she will perform her duties using her utmost efforts with loyalty and honesty for the benefit of the country and the people. Full story: Thai PBS 2024-08-19 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Paetongtarn Shinawatra Officially Endorsed as Thailand's Prime Minister Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, left, and his daughter and newly elected Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra arrive before the royal endorsement ceremony appointing Paetongtarn as Thailand's new prime minister at Pheu Thai party headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand, Sunday, Aug. 18, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit). Paetongtarn Shinawatra, daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, was officially endorsed as Thailand's 31st Prime Minister on August 18 by His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335855-paetongtarn-shinawatra-officially-endorsed-as-thailands-prime-minister/