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The transcription below includes the news stories covered in the Good Morning Thailand program, hosted by Alex. These stories span Thailand and other Southeast Asian countries, covering six Vietnamese nationals found dead in a luxury Bangkok hotel, the spread of African Swine Fever in Vietnam and more. 1. Six Vietnamese Nationals Found Dead in Bangkok Hotel: Six Vietnamese nationals were found dead in a Bangkok luxury hotel after allegedly drinking poisoned tea and coffee. Discovered in a sixth-floor room at the Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel, the victims were scheduled to check out that day. Police dismissed initial reports of a shooting and found no signs of struggle. The deceased, including two with American citizenship, were identified as Sherine Chong, Hung Dang Van, Thi Nguyen Phuong Lan, Hong Pham Thanh, Dinh Tran Phu, and Thi Nguyen Phuong. Authorities suspect poisoning and are investigating potential motives, including business or personal conflicts or a cult-related sacrifice. 2. Man Kills Wife in Drunken Rage Over Hygiene Dispute: In Roi Et, Watcharin, 53, killed his wife Praitun, 44, in a drunken rage after she hadn’t bathed. The incident occurred on July 14 when Watcharin struck her with a wooden stick. Initially claiming she slipped in the bathroom, he later confessed to the assault. Police detained Watcharin and are gathering evidence for prosecution. 3. Bangkok Governor Investigates Mass Fish Deaths: Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt inspected Bueng Makkasan in Ratchathewi district following a mass fish death incident affecting primarily Nile tilapia and some blackchin tilapia. The deaths likely resulted from oxygen depletion due to lowered water levels for rainwater preparations. Maintenance of water treatment equipment had reduced oxygen levels, which have since been restored. Further investigation into water quality and fish spread is ongoing. 4. Kindergarten Finance Officer Arrested for Embezzling 2.8 Million Baht: A former kindergarten finance officer in Nakhon Sawan was arrested for embezzling over 2.8 million baht from a bilingual program. Managing registration fees between 2012 and 2015, the suspect allegedly diverted funds for personal use. After a Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission investigation, an arrest warrant was issued in September 2023. The suspect was apprehended in Chiang Mai and taken to the Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Region 6. 5. Foreign Nationals Arrested for Violent Robbery in Bangkok: Four nationals—three British and one Danish—were arrested in Thailand for violently robbing a British cryptocurrency trader. The trader was tied up, beaten, and forced to contact his girlfriend to collect valuables, resulting in a theft of about 3 million baht. The suspects, identified as Mohamed, Saeed, Sumya (all British), and Abdullah (Danish), deny the charges. Police tracked the suspects to Pattaya using a hotel registration system, and another suspect was caught at Bangkok's airport. A fifth suspect is wanted but has left Thailand. 6. Thailand to Implement $13.8 Billion Digital Wallet Program: Thailand will start registration in August for a $13.8 billion Digital Wallet program, providing 10,000 baht in digital money to 50 million citizens. Announced in April, the scheme aims to boost the economy but faces criticism for its sustainability. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin expects the stimulus to increase GDP growth by 1.2 to 1.6 percentage points. Funding will come from the 2024-2025 budgets. The program excludes fraudsters and certain goods, with details to be finalized. The government pushes forward amidst a sluggish economy. 7. Suspect in Killings of Australians and Filipinos in the Philippines Surrenders: A suspect in the killings of two Australians and their Filipina companion at the Lake Hotel in Tagaytay, Philippines, has surrendered. The victims, found tied up and dead in a hotel room, were identified via security camera footage. The suspect, a former hotel employee fired as a pool cleaner, confessed to robbing and killing the victims. Criminal complaints of robbery and murder will be filed. The women will be buried in the Philippines, while the Australian man’s body was flown to Sydney. 8. African Swine Fever Spreading in Vietnam: African swine fever (ASF) outbreaks are spreading in Vietnam, threatening food supplies and inflation. Vietnam has culled 42,400 infected pigs this year, nearly five times more than last year, with 660 outbreaks detected nationwide. The government has ordered provinces to prioritize vaccination funds. Vietnam approved the first commercial ASF vaccines last year, though further testing was recommended. Rising pork prices due to ASF contributed to a higher consumer price index in June, with food prices up 3.23% from the previous year.

Foreign Nationals Arrested for Violent Robbery in Bangkok: Four nationals—three British and one Danish—were arrested in Thailand for violently robbing a British cryptocurrency trader. The trader was tied up, beaten, and forced to contact his girlfriend to collect valuables, resulting in a theft of about 3 million baht. The suspects, identified as Mohamed, Saeed, Sumya (all British), and Abdullah (Danish), deny the charges. Police tracked the suspects to Pattaya using a hotel registration system, and another suspect was caught at Bangkok's airport. A fifth suspect is wanted but has left Thailand.

Six Vietnamese Nationals Found Dead in Bangkok Hotel: Six Vietnamese nationals were found dead in a Bangkok luxury hotel after allegedly drinking poisoned tea and coffee. Discovered in a sixth-floor room at the Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel, the victims were scheduled to check out that day. Police dismissed initial reports of a shooting and found no signs of struggle. The deceased, including two with American citizenship, were identified as Sherine Chong, Hung Dang Van, Thi Nguyen Phuong Lan, Hong Pham Thanh, Dinh Tran Phu, and Thi Nguyen Phuong. Authorities suspect poisoning and are investigating potential motives, including business or personal conflicts or a cult-related sacrifice.

Bangkok Governor Investigates Mass Fish Deaths: Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt inspected Bueng Makkasan in Ratchathewi district following a mass fish death incident affecting primarily Nile tilapia and some blackchin tilapia. The deaths likely resulted from oxygen depletion due to lowered water levels for rainwater preparations. Maintenance of water treatment equipment had reduced oxygen levels, which have since been restored. Further investigation into water quality and fish spread is ongoing.

Thai Senator’s PhD Under Scrutiny: Thai Senator Associate Professor Doctor Keskamol Pleansamai is under scrutiny over her PhD from California University, allegedly obtained for 8,600 baht. Despite her strong educational background, her doctorate in Business Administration raised suspicions as California University issues equivalent certificates, not degrees. Critics claim the PhD could be easily purchased online. Keskamol and her lawyer defended the legitimacy of her research, but further scrutiny revealed inconsistencies. An investigation is ongoing.

Chinese Tourists Extorted by Alleged Thai Police Officers: A Thai travel agency accused alleged police officers of extorting 700,000 baht from Chinese tourists on a motorway to Pattaya. A dashcam video showed men, claiming to be police, stopping the tourists' car on July 10 near the Pattaya toll booth. The tourists questioned the legitimacy of the officers. The incident was reported to Channel 7, but the local police superintendent stated that no report had been filed by the tourists, limiting police action. The travel agency hopes for justice before the tourists leave Thailand on July 25.

Opal-Suchata Chuangsri Crowned Miss Universe Thailand 2024: Opal-Suchata Chuangsri was crowned Miss Universe Thailand 2024 after a competitive night among 40 contestants. The event featured a spectacular opening performance and concluded with the finalists answering a pivotal question on women's empowerment. Opal-Suchata's heartfelt response, highlighting her personal experience with breast cancer awareness, won over the judges and audience. Phuket’s Suri-Suzana Renaud and Ubon Ratchathani’s Mook-Karnruethai Tassabut were named first and second runners-up, respectively. Opal-Suchata will represent Thailand at the 73rd Miss Universe competition in Mexico.

The transcription below covers the various news stories presented in the Good Morning Thailand program, hosted by Alex. The program features news stories from Thailand and Southeast Asian countries, ranging from disturbances caused by Kuwaiti motorcycle racers in Pattaya to Singapore's birth rate hitting a five-decade low. 1. Kuwaiti Street Racers Cause Disturbances in Pattaya: Residents of Soi Yen Sabai, Pattaya, have urged police to address disturbances caused by Kuwaiti motorcycle racers. On July 13, a fight involving over 50 Kuwaiti men broke out, as seen in a viral video. These racers block roads and rev engines late at night, continuing similar issues from last year that led to arrests and motorcycle confiscations. Despite previous actions, the problem persists, with another group causing an accident and fleeing last August. 2. Thaksin Shinawatra to Receive Certificate of Innocence: Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra will receive a certificate of innocence in August after completing his sentence. Originally sentenced to eight years, his term was reduced to one year by a royal pardon. Released on parole in February, Thaksin toured provinces to meet supporters while adhering to parole rules. Corrections Department Director Sahakarn Phetnarin confirmed his release, after which he won't need to report to authorities. Though Thaksin expressed no interest in returning to politics, Deputy PM Phumtham Wechayachai suggested he might become an advisor to the Pheu Thai Party. 3. Kindergarten Teacher Accused of Abusing Student in Thailand: In Phichit province, a Thai mother accused a kindergarten teacher of forcing her three-year-old daughter to take her faeces home and beating her as punishment. The mother, Rungnapa, shared the incident on social media, describing how her daughter returned home in pain with faeces in her backpack. After confronting the teacher without receiving an explanation, Rungnapa moved her daughter to another school and sought an investigation. The Bang Phai sub-district chief is conducting a 15-day inquiry into the teacher's conduct. 4. Thai Senator’s PhD Under Scrutiny: Thai Senator Associate Professor Doctor Keskamol Pleansamai is under scrutiny over her PhD from California University, allegedly obtained for 8,600 baht. Despite her strong educational background, her doctorate in Business Administration raised suspicions as California University issues equivalent certificates, not degrees. Critics claim the PhD could be easily purchased online. Keskamol and her lawyer defended the legitimacy of her research, but further scrutiny revealed inconsistencies. An investigation is ongoing. 5. Chinese Tourists Extorted by Alleged Thai Police Officers: A Thai travel agency accused alleged police officers of extorting 700,000 baht from Chinese tourists on a motorway to Pattaya. A dashcam video showed men, claiming to be police, stopping the tourists' car on July 10 near the Pattaya toll booth. The tourists questioned the legitimacy of the officers. The incident was reported to Channel 7, but the local police superintendent stated that no report had been filed by the tourists, limiting police action. The travel agency hopes for justice before the tourists leave Thailand on July 25. 6. Opal-Suchata Chuangsri Crowned Miss Universe Thailand 2024: Opal-Suchata Chuangsri was crowned Miss Universe Thailand 2024 after a competitive night among 40 contestants. The event featured a spectacular opening performance and concluded with the finalists answering a pivotal question on women's empowerment. Opal-Suchata's heartfelt response, highlighting her personal experience with breast cancer awareness, won over the judges and audience. Phuket’s Suri-Suzana Renaud and Ubon Ratchathani’s Mook-Karnruethai Tassabut were named first and second runners-up, respectively. Opal-Suchata will represent Thailand at the 73rd Miss Universe competition in Mexico. 7. U.S. Seeks Indonesian Partnership for Critical Minerals: The U.S. has approached Indonesia to join the Mineral Security Partnership (MSP), aiming to enhance environmental standards and governance in Indonesia's mineral sector. The U.S. Under Secretary of State, Jose Fernandez discussed this during his Jakarta visit, seeking to develop sustainable critical minerals supply chains and attract investment that benefits communities while upholding labour and environmental laws. Indonesia, rich in minerals like nickel and copper, aims to become a production hub for batteries and electric vehicles. Discussions on a critical mineral trade deal are progressing positively. 8. Singapore Birth Rate Hits Five-Decade Low: Singapore's birth rate hit a five-decade low in 2023, with only 33,541 babies born, a 5.8% decrease from the previous year. This decline continues a trend observed since 1971. The government's efforts to combat the falling fertility rate, which reached a historic low of 0.97 in 2023, include easing rules on egg freezing and doubling government-paid paternity leave.

Thaksin Shinawatra to Receive Certificate of Innocence: Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra will receive a certificate of innocence in August after completing his sentence. Originally sentenced to eight years, his term was reduced to one year by a royal pardon. Released on parole in February, Thaksin toured provinces to meet supporters while adhering to parole rules. Corrections Department Director Sahakarn Phetnarin confirmed his release, after which he won't need to report to authorities. Though Thaksin expressed no interest in returning to politics, Deputy PM Phumtham Wechayachai suggested he might become an advisor to the Pheu Thai Party.

Kindergarten Teacher Accused of Abusing Student in Thailand: In Phichit province, a Thai mother accused a kindergarten teacher of forcing her three-year-old daughter to take her faeces home and beating her as punishment. The mother, Rungnapa, shared the incident on social media, describing how her daughter returned home in pain with faeces in her backpack. After confronting the teacher without receiving an explanation, Rungnapa moved her daughter to another school and sought an investigation. The Bang Phai sub-district chief is conducting a 15-day inquiry into the teacher's conduct.

Kuwaiti Street Racers Cause Disturbances in Pattaya: Residents of Soi Yen Sabai, Pattaya, have urged police to address disturbances caused by Kuwaiti motorcycle racers. On July 13, a fight involving over 50 Kuwaiti men broke out, as seen in a viral video. These racers block roads and rev engines late at night, continuing similar issues from last year that led to arrests and motorcycle confiscations. Despite previous actions, the problem persists, with another group causing an accident and fleeing last August.

Kiwi Brothers Jailed in Thailand Return to New Zealand: Kiwi brothers Hamish and Mattson Day, aged 36 and 38, were jailed in Thailand after a roadside altercation with police in Phuket. Arrested in March on charges including robbery and obstruction of police duty, they were accused of speeding and refusing to cooperate. They spent nearly four months in prison before returning to New Zealand. The Day family expressed gratitude for the support received and requested privacy as the brothers readjust.

Cannabis Rollback Causes Rift in Thailand's Ruling Coalition: The Pheu Thai party's push to reclassify cannabis as a narcotic in Thailand has created a rift with its coalition partner Bhumjaithai, which spearheaded its decriminalization. The Ministry of Public Health recommended placing cannabis back on the Category 5 controlled substances list, following a public hearing with 80% support for reclassification. Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul opposes the move, arguing it could harm investor confidence and economic progress. The issue remains contentious, with industry stakeholders protesting and advocating for further research on cannabis.

Thai Woman Wins 9 Million Baht from UK Bet: Araya Curry, a 40-year-old Thai woman living in the UK, won £200,000 (approximately 9 million baht) from a £1 bet on the Nifty Fifty game through Betfred. The win has transformed her life, allowing her to leave her 14-hour workdays behind and return to Thailand to live her dream life. Araya and her husband Andy, a former firefighter, are building a six-bedroom house in Thailand, fast-tracking their 10-year plan.

The transcription below covers the news stories featured in the Good Morning Thailand program, hosted by Alex. The news stories range from an argument on the BTS Skytrain between a foreigner and a Thai woman to the Malayan tiger nearing extinction amid recent deaths. Foreigner and Thai Woman Argue on BTS Skytrain: A viral video shows a heated argument between a foreign man and a Thai woman on Bangkok's BTS Skytrain. The altercation began when the foreigner, frustrated by passengers blocking the doors, nearly missed the train. After boarding, he allegedly bumped into the woman and rudely asked her to move, leading to a profanity-laced exchange. Another passenger tried to defuse the situation. Online debate ensued, criticizing the foreigner's rudeness and lack of Thai language skills while acknowledging the common issue of passengers crowding train doors. The woman, Jah, who shared the video, empathized with both parties. Chinese TikTok Star Allegedly Murdered in Bangkok: Chinese TikTok star Yan Ruimin was allegedly murdered by another Chinese tourist in Bangkok on July 1st. Police found a decomposed body in Chachoengsao matching the missing woman. A key suspect fled to Hong Kong. The case, involving ransom demands and a grisly discovery, sparked rumours of crime syndicates, which police have downplayed. Yan was last seen travelling to meet the suspect before being murdered. Thai authorities seek his extradition for questioning, highlighting concerns about crimes affecting Chinese tourists in Thailand. Man Tampers Passport to Hide Thailand Trips from Wife: Tushar Pawar was detained at Mumbai International Airport for tampering with 12 pages of his passport to hide previous trips to Thailand from his wife. Immigration officials discovered the tampered pages as Pawar attempted to board a flight to Thailand. He confessed to concealing his travel records to avoid marital confrontation and was arrested, and charged under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 318 (4) and the Indian Passport Act. He is in judicial custody, awaiting a bail hearing. Cannabis Rollback Causes Rift in Thailand's Ruling Coalition: The Pheu Thai party's push to reclassify cannabis as a narcotic in Thailand has created a rift with its coalition partner Bhumjaithai, which spearheaded its decriminalization. The Ministry of Public Health recommended placing cannabis back on the Category 5 controlled substances list, following a public hearing with 80% support for reclassification. Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul opposes the move, arguing it could harm investor confidence and economic progress. The issue remains contentious, with industry stakeholders protesting and advocating for further research on cannabis. Kiwi Brothers Jailed in Thailand Return to New Zealand: Kiwi brothers Hamish and Mattson Day, aged 36 and 38, were jailed in Thailand after a roadside altercation with police in Phuket. Arrested in March on charges including robbery and obstruction of police duty, they were accused of speeding and refusing to cooperate. They spent nearly four months in prison before returning to New Zealand. The Day family expressed gratitude for the support received and requested privacy as the brothers readjust. Thai Woman Wins 9 Million Baht from UK Bet: Araya Curry, a 40-year-old Thai woman living in the UK, won £200,000 (approximately 9 million baht) from a £1 bet on the Nifty Fifty game through Betfred. The win has transformed her life, allowing her to leave her 14-hour workdays behind and return to Thailand to live her dream life. Araya and her husband Andy, a former firefighter, are building a six-bedroom house in Thailand, fast-tracking their 10-year plan. Vietnam Landslides Kill 11 After Heavy Rain: Torrential rains in northern Vietnam triggered landslides on July 13, killing at least 11 people and leaving several others missing. Rescue teams in Ha Giang province found 11 dead and four injured. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh directed authorities to manage the disaster and prepare for more floods and landslides. The region received 280 mm of rain in 24 hours, with warnings for further flash floods and landslides. Myanmar Resistance Captures Strategic Town Near Mandalay: Anti-junta forces in Myanmar captured a strategic town near Mandalay, bolstering their position against the military junta. The coordinated offensive involved the People’s Defense Forces (Mandalay) and the Three Brotherhood Alliance, seizing significant weaponry and ammunition. The capture disrupts the junta's supply routes and trade with China. The operation marks a significant advancement for the resistance, enhancing their military capabilities. Malayan Tiger Nears Extinction Amid Recent Deaths: The Malayan tiger faces a national emergency with fewer than 150 left in the wild due to habitat loss, poaching, and prey decline. Recent deaths, including tigers found dead in Kelantan, Perak, and Pahang, have intensified concerns. Conservationists stress the urgency of enhanced patrols, advanced monitoring, and public commitment. Malaysia's 2020 eight-year National Tiger Conservation Action Plan aims to safeguard the species through coordinated actions. Conservationists call for stronger efforts to prevent the species' extinction.

Man Tampers Passport to Hide Thailand Trips from Wife: Tushar Pawar was detained at Mumbai International Airport for tampering with 12 pages of his passport to hide previous trips to Thailand from his wife. Immigration officials discovered the tampered pages as Pawar attempted to board a flight to Thailand. He confessed to concealing his travel records to avoid marital confrontation and was arrested, and charged under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 318 (4) and the Indian Passport Act. He is in judicial custody, awaiting a bail hearing.

Foreigner and Thai Woman Argue on BTS Skytrain: A viral video shows a heated argument between a foreign man and a Thai woman on Bangkok's BTS Skytrain. The altercation began when the foreigner, frustrated by passengers blocking the doors, nearly missed the train. After boarding, he allegedly bumped into the woman and rudely asked her to move, leading to a profanity-laced exchange. Another passenger tried to defuse the situation. Online debate ensued, criticizing the foreigner's rudeness and lack of Thai language skills while acknowledging the common issue of passengers crowding train doors. The woman, Jah, who shared the video, empathized with both parties.

Chinese TikTok Star Allegedly Murdered in Bangkok: Chinese TikTok star Yan Ruimin was allegedly murdered by another Chinese tourist in Bangkok on July 1st. Police found a decomposed body in Chachoengsao matching the missing woman. A key suspect fled to Hong Kong. The case, involving ransom demands and a grisly discovery, sparked rumours of crime syndicates, which police have downplayed. Yan was last seen travelling to meet the suspect before being murdered. Thai authorities seek his extradition for questioning, highlighting concerns about crimes affecting Chinese tourists in Thailand.

Heightened Security in Yala Amid Insurgent Threats: Yala has intensified security following intelligence reports of insurgent movements. Increased patrols and checkpoints are in place to protect residents and tourists. Betong district chief Amorn Chumchuay has deployed rapid response teams and strategic checkpoints. Insurgent activity, led by a figure known as Kompi, is anticipated between July 10 and July 20.

Soldier Commits Murder with Samurai Sword in Bangkok: A soldier in Bangkok has been arrested for murdering his girlfriend, Khemruthai, with a samurai sword. The suspect, 24-year-old Sunai, attacked the 30-year-old former housekeeper at the Thai Parliament. After the murder, he cleaned the sword, showered, changed into his uniform, and left the apartment. He is currently being questioned at Sam Sen Police Station.

Public Health Minister Enhances Mental Health Hotline Services: Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin has ordered improvements to mental health hotline services to address issues related to mental health and narcotics abuse. He emphasized that 40% of psychiatric patients are affected by narcotics and called for a reassessment of budget allocation for treatment. Somsak also plans to increase medical staff in response to upcoming retirements.

1. Cannabis Crusaders Begin Hunger Strike Cannabis supporters have started a hunger strike after the Office of Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) decided to reclassify cannabis as a Narcotics Category 5 drug by January 1, 2025. Removed from this category in June 2022, the reclassification aims to address misuse concerns, particularly among youth. Activists Prasittichai Noonuan and Akkaradate Chatjinda, consuming only water and coconut water, vow to continue until the government listens. The Bhumjaithai Party supports controlled health-related cannabis use. 2. Heightened Security in Yala Amid Insurgent Threats Yala has intensified security following intelligence reports of insurgent movements. Increased patrols and checkpoints are in place to protect residents and tourists. Betong district chief Amorn Chumchuay has deployed rapid response teams and strategic checkpoints. Insurgent activity, led by a figure known as Kompi, is anticipated between July 10 and July 20. 3. Soldier Commits Murder with Samurai Sword in Bangkok A soldier in Bangkok has been arrested for murdering his girlfriend, Khemruthai, with a samurai sword. The suspect, 24-year-old Sunai, attacked the 30-year-old former housekeeper at the Thai Parliament. After the murder, he cleaned the sword, showered, changed into his uniform, and left the apartment. He is currently being questioned at Sam Sen Police Station. 4. Japanese Tourist's Rampage in Pattaya A Japanese tourist drove his car into a restaurant in Pattaya after arguing with his girlfriend, who worked there. The incident on July 10 caused damage to cars and motorcycles and ended when the car hit a tour bus. Police arrested the 60-year-old man, suspected of drug use, after a distress call at 9:36 pm. Several people sustained minor injuries, and charges are pending. 5. Public Health Minister Enhances Mental Health Hotline Services Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin has ordered improvements to mental health hotline services to address issues related to mental health and narcotics abuse. He emphasized that 40% of psychiatric patients are affected by narcotics and called for a reassessment of budget allocation for treatment. Somsak also plans to increase medical staff in response to upcoming retirements. 6. Fan Tattoos ‘Lisa Rockstar’ on Head Fan Ratchakarn Nakphian tattooed "Lisa Rockstar" on his head to show admiration for BLACKPINK's Lisa Manoban after participating in her music video shoot for "Rockstar." Thrilled by her dedication during the shoot, Ratchakarn hopes to get Lisa's signature tattooed alongside his current tattoo. 7. Three Killed in Philippine Hotel Incident Two Australians and a Filipina were found murdered in a hotel in Tagaytay, Philippines, with their hands and feet tied. The victims include a man in his 50s, his Philippine-born Australian partner, and her Filipina relative. A masked man seen on hotel security footage is a suspect. Local officials are investigating, and the remains will be flown to Australia and buried in the Philippines as requested by their families. 8. Former Indonesian Agriculture Minister Sentenced for Corruption Former Indonesian Agriculture Minister Syahrul Yasin Limpo has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for corruption, including extortion, abuse of power, and bribery. This case has impacted President Joko Widodo’s anti-corruption efforts. Limpo, who denied wrongdoing, must also pay a fine of 300 million rupiah or face additional imprisonment. The Indonesian anti-graft commission, KPK, continues to combat corruption despite political resistance.

Fan Tattoos ‘Lisa Rockstar’ on Head: Fan Ratchakarn Nakphian tattooed "Lisa Rockstar" on his head to show admiration for BLACKPINK's Lisa Manoban after participating in her music video shoot for "Rockstar." Thrilled by her dedication during the shoot, Ratchakarn hopes to get Lisa's signature tattooed alongside his current tattoo.

Japanese Tourist's Rampage in Pattaya: A Japanese tourist drove his car into a restaurant in Pattaya after arguing with his girlfriend, who worked there. The incident on July 10 caused damage to cars and motorcycles and ended when the car hit a tour bus. Police arrested the 60-year-old man, suspected of drug use, after a distress call at 9:36 pm. Several people sustained minor injuries, and charges are pending.

Cannabis Crusaders Begin Hunger Strike: Cannabis supporters have started a hunger strike after the Office of Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) decided to reclassify cannabis as a Narcotics Category 5 drug by January 1, 2025. Removed from this category in June 2022, the reclassification aims to address misuse concerns, particularly among youth. Activists Prasittichai Noonuan and Akkaradate Chatjinda, consuming only water and coconut water, vow to continue until the government listens. The Bhumjaithai Party supports controlled health-related cannabis use.