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Thailand Endorses New Senate: Thailand's Election Commission has endorsed 200 new senators, replacing the military-appointed upper house. The new senate will vet laws and appoint key officials but not vote on the prime minister. This change could challenge Pheu Thai party's governance. The shift marks a gain for Bhumjaithai, reducing the influence of Thaksin Shinawatra's Pheu Thai. This could impede Pheu Thai's promise to revise the military-drafted constitution.

Python Found in Company Bathroom: A 4.5-meter python was found on the roof of a bathroom at a Chachoengsao company. The snake had previously bitten an employee, requiring nearly 40 stitches. Rescue workers captured the python after breaking through the ceiling. The employee, Chalermphon, recounted his earlier encounter with the snake and called for help, ensuring a swift capture.

Minor Earthquake Shakes Koh Samui: A 2.0 magnitude earthquake shook Koh Samui at 12:14 am on July 10, causing residents in Bo Phut to feel the tremors. The quake was at a depth of 1 kilometre. Another 2.2 magnitude quake was reported in Chiang Mai the previous evening. The Thai Meteorological Department is monitoring closely. No damage or injuries were reported.

Koh Nang Yuan Enforces No-Plastic Policy: Visitors to Koh Nang Yuan are prohibited from bringing plastic items or styrofoam boxes to protect the island's coral reefs. This policy aims to preserve its natural beauty and marine life. The island provides water in glass bottles with disposal instructions. The ban on single-use plastics has significantly aided in the recovery of the coral reefs.

The transcription below provides a summary of news from Thailand and Southeast Asia featured in the Good Morning Thailand program, hosted by Alex. The news stories range from a Thai MP proposing the legalization of the pornography and sex toy industries to the USS Blue Ridge visiting Vietnam's Cam Ranh Bay. 1. Thai MP Proposes Legalising Pornography and Sex Toy Industries: Move Forward Party MP Taopiphop Limjittrakorn has proposed legalizing the pornography and sex toy industries in Thailand by amending Section 287 of the Criminal Law. The bill, shared on Twitter, would allow legal work for sex content creators over 20 years old and prohibit violent content. Taopiphop argues the current ban violates constitutional rights and that legalization could benefit the economy. Reactions on social media are mixed. Another MFP MP, Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn, will propose a bill for more military spending transparency. 2. British Yoga Teacher Stranded at Bangkok Airport: British yoga teacher Rosie Viscomi was stranded at Suvarnabhumi Airport due to a 1cm tear in her passport. The 27-year-old faced visa issues and feared arrest after IndiGo Airlines refused her passage, requiring a direct flight to London. Her family set up a fundraising page, raising £280 of the £1,000 target. She has now secured a new flight and emergency travel documents to return to England on July 9. 3. Thailand Endorses New Senate: Thailand's Election Commission has endorsed 200 new senators, replacing the military-appointed upper house. The new senate will vet laws and appoint key officials but not vote on the prime minister. This change could challenge Pheu Thai party's governance. The shift marks a gain for Bhumjaithai, reducing the influence of Thaksin Shinawatra's Pheu Thai. This could impede Pheu Thai's promise to revise the military-drafted constitution. 4. Minor Earthquake Shakes Koh Samui: A 2.0 magnitude earthquake shook Koh Samui at 12:14 am on July 10, causing residents in Bo Phut to feel the tremors. The quake was at a depth of 1 kilometre. Another 2.2 magnitude quake was reported in Chiang Mai the previous evening. The Thai Meteorological Department is monitoring closely. No damage or injuries were reported. 5. Koh Nang Yuan Enforces No-Plastic Policy: Visitors to Koh Nang Yuan are prohibited from bringing plastic items or styrofoam boxes to protect the island's coral reefs. This policy aims to preserve its natural beauty and marine life. The island provides water in glass bottles with disposal instructions. The ban on single-use plastics has significantly aided in the recovery of the coral reefs. 6. Python Found in Company Bathroom: A 4.5-meter python was found on the roof of a bathroom at a Chachoengsao company. The snake had previously bitten an employee, requiring nearly 40 stitches. Rescue workers captured the python after breaking through the ceiling. The employee, Chalermphon, recounted his earlier encounter with the snake and called for help, ensuring a swift capture. 7. Fireworks Explode in Philippines, Injuring 27: At least 27 people, including 19 police and government personnel, were injured when confiscated illegal fireworks exploded in Zamboanga, Philippines. The blast damaged houses, hotels, and the Zamboanga International Airport. Two victims are in serious condition. The explosion occurred during a planned controlled detonation by police explosives experts, highlighting ongoing issues with illegal fireworks. 8. Suicide Rates Surge in Malaysia: Malaysia has seen a surge in suicides, with 4,440 cases since 2019. Men are four times more likely to die by suicide than women. The Chinese community is hardest hit, followed by foreigners, Indians, and Malays. Suicides increased from 609 cases in 2019 to over 1,000 annually since 2021. Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi attributes this rise to social and economic changes. The National Mental Health Crisis Line received over 48,900 calls from October 2022 to June 2023. 9. USS Blue Ridge Visits Vietnam's Cam Ranh Bay: The USS Blue Ridge, flagship of the U.S. Seventh Fleet, visited Vietnam’s Cam Ranh Bay, marking a significant step in U.S.-Vietnam relations. Accompanied by the U.S. Coast Guard cutter Waesche, the ship carried over 1,000 personnel. During the five-day visit, U.S. naval personnel will engage with Vietnamese officials and military units. This visit follows the establishment of a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two nations last year.

British Yoga Teacher Stranded at Bangkok Airport: British yoga teacher Rosie Viscomi was stranded at Suvarnabhumi Airport due to a 1cm tear in her passport. The 27-year-old faced visa issues and feared arrest after IndiGo Airlines refused her passage, requiring a direct flight to London. Her family set up a fundraising page, raising £280 of the £1,000 target. She has now secured a new flight and emergency travel documents to return to England on July 9.

Thai MP Proposes Legalising Pornography and Sex Toy Industries: Move Forward Party MP Taopiphop Limjittrakorn has proposed legalizing the pornography and sex toy industries in Thailand by amending Section 287 of the Criminal Law. The bill, shared on Twitter, would allow legal work for sex content creators over 20 years old and prohibit violent content. Taopiphop argues the current ban violates constitutional rights and that legalization could benefit the economy. Reactions on social media are mixed. Another MFP MP, Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn, will propose a bill for more military spending transparency.

Defence Minister to Meet Thai PM Over Submarine Deal: Defence Minister Sutin Klungsang plans to meet Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin to discuss the controversial submarine procurement project. If approved, the proposal will be submitted to the Cabinet. The urgency stems from China's desire to conclude the deal, having invested significant time. Initially, Thailand aimed to buy three submarines from China for US$1.06 billion, but budget constraints reduced it to one for 13.5 billion baht. Issues arose over unavailable German engines, leading China to offer a domestic substitute. The Defence Ministry is now amending the contract to extend its term and change the engine type, pending final Cabinet approval.

Thai Police Arrest Key Members of Human Trafficking Ring: Thai police have arrested key members of a human trafficking ring that lured Thai citizens into forced labour in call centres. Led by Police Major General Saruti Kwangsopa, the team apprehended 31-year-old Teerapon in Bangkok, 21-year-old Aranya in Chiang Rai, and 31-year-old Nattanicha, already in custody. The ring, led by a Chinese individual named Fei Yang, used fraudulent job offers to trap victims, who were then coerced into scams involving romance and investment fraud. The suspects denied full involvement, but police investigations continue. This crackdown follows last year's operations that rescued 266 Thai victims from call centres in Myanmar.

Thailand to End Duty-Free Shopping on Arrival at Airports: Thailand will close duty-free shops in the arrival areas of eight international airports, including Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang in Bangkok. This initiative aims to boost domestic spending and decongest airports, repurposing space for passenger facilities. The closure aligns with Thailand's tourism strategy and aims to improve airport rankings. Last year, inbound duty-free shops generated THB 3 billion ($82.9 million), but the government estimates that closing them will increase foreign visitors' spending by THB 570 ($15.64) per trip. Thailand aims to welcome 40 million foreign visitors in 2024, having seen a 35% increase in tourists in the first half of the year.

Survey Reveals Chinese Tourists' Spending Habits in Thailand: A survey by the Tourism Council of Thailand revealed that Chinese tourists visiting in the second quarter were primarily drawn by Thai cuisine and exotic fruits. The survey of 205 Chinese nationals highlighted that Singaporeans spent the most per trip, followed by Mainland Chinese, Taiwanese, and Hong Kong tourists. Independent travel is preferred by 88% of Chinese tourists. Travel costs increased for 45% of respondents post-Covid. Key attractions include food, safety, reasonable expenses, and high-quality services. Popular activities are enjoying Thai food, spa treatments, and shopping. Top destinations are Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket, with complaints about taxi services, safety, and cleanliness.

The transcription below features diverse news stories from across Thailand and Southeast Asia, covered in the Good Morning Thailand program, hosted by Alex. The stories range from Thailand ending duty-free shopping on arrival at airports to Singapore approving edible insects for food. 1. Thailand to End Duty-Free Shopping on Arrival at Airports Thailand will close duty-free shops in the arrival areas of eight international airports, including Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang in Bangkok. This initiative aims to boost domestic spending and decongest airports, repurposing space for passenger facilities. The closure aligns with Thailand's tourism strategy and aims to improve airport rankings. Last year, inbound duty-free shops generated THB 3 billion ($82.9 million), but the government estimates that closing them will increase foreign visitors' spending by THB 570 ($15.64) per trip. Thailand aims to welcome 40 million foreign visitors in 2024, having seen a 35% increase in tourists in the first half of the year. 2. Cannabis Advocates Protest Proposed Ban in Thailand Cannabis advocates in Thailand protested at the Prime Minister’s Office against a proposed ban on general use. The health ministry's drug control committee recently approved relisting cannabis as a narcotic, limiting its use to medical and research purposes. Protesters, including cannabis activists and entrepreneurs, argue the government seeks to benefit select groups by criminalizing the plant again. The rally, starting at the United Nations headquarters and moving toward Government House, highlighted concerns over economic damage and monopolization. The proposal, if approved, will take effect on January 1. 3. Myanmar Rebels Increase Meth Production, Flooding Thailand Myanmar rebels are increasing meth production to finance their fight against the government, flooding Thailand with drugs. Col. Meechai Nillasart of the Pha Muang Force reported seizing 151 million meth pills this fiscal year, up from 42 million last year, along with 256 kg of heroin and 1,350 kg of crystal meth. The force, responsible for a 933 km northern border, arrested 347 suspects and killed 29 traffickers. Millions more pills are believed to be stored near the Myanmar border, awaiting smuggling into Thailand. The rebels united after Myanmar's 2021 military coup. 4. Police Impersonator Assaults Woman in Pattaya Bar In Pattaya, a woman was assaulted in a bar by a man falsely claiming to be a police inspector. The incident occurred on South Pattaya Road when Aim, a 39-year-old Thai woman, was approached by a group of men, one of whom identified himself as Inspector Bee from Rayong. After a friendly exchange, he groped her, prompting Aim to challenge his identity. His companions attempted to intimidate her, but she alerted the real police. The impostor and his group fled before the police arrived. Authorities are investigating, highlighting ongoing safety concerns in nightlife areas. 5. Thai Police Arrest Key Members of Human Trafficking Ring Thai police have arrested key members of a human trafficking ring that lured Thai citizens into forced labour in call centres. Led by Police Major General Saruti Kwangsopa, the team apprehended 31-year-old Teerapon in Bangkok, 21-year-old Aranya in Chiang Rai, and 31-year-old Nattanicha, already in custody. The ring, led by a Chinese individual named Fei Yang, used fraudulent job offers to trap victims, who were then coerced into scams involving romance and investment fraud. The suspects denied full involvement, but police investigations continue. This crackdown follows last year's operations that rescued 266 Thai victims from call centres in Myanmar. 6. Defence Minister to Meet Thai PM Over Submarine Deal Defence Minister Sutin Klungsang plans to meet Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin to discuss the controversial submarine procurement project. If approved, the proposal will be submitted to the Cabinet. The urgency stems from China's desire to conclude the deal, having invested significant time. Initially, Thailand aimed to buy three submarines from China for US$1.06 billion, but budget constraints reduced it to one for 13.5 billion baht. Issues arose over unavailable German engines, leading China to offer a domestic substitute. The Defence Ministry is now amending the contract to extend its term and change the engine type, pending final Cabinet approval. 7. Survey Reveals Chinese Tourists' Spending Habits in Thailand A survey by the Tourism Council of Thailand revealed that Chinese tourists visiting in the second quarter were primarily drawn by Thai cuisine and exotic fruits. The survey of 205 Chinese nationals highlighted that Singaporeans spent the most per trip, followed by Mainland Chinese, Taiwanese, and Hong Kong tourists. Independent travel is preferred by 88% of Chinese tourists. Travel costs increased for 45% of respondents post-Covid. Key attractions include food, safety, reasonable expenses, and high-quality services. Popular activities are enjoying Thai food, spa treatments, and shopping. Top destinations are Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket, with complaints about taxi services, safety, and cleanliness. 8. Death Toll Rises After Indonesia Landslide at Illegal Gold Mine A landslide at an illegal gold mine on Indonesia's Sulawesi island has killed at least 23 people, with 35 still missing. Triggered by torrential rains, the landslide hit Bone Bolango district, burying miners and residents. Rescue operations, involving over 270 workers and a helicopter, are hampered by heavy rain and unstable terrain. Illegal mines are common in Indonesia, posing significant safety risks. The disaster highlights the dangers of unlicensed mining, which often involves hazardous conditions and the use of toxic chemicals. Previous incidents, like the April 2022 landslide in North Sumatra, have resulted in similar tragedies. 9. Philippines Seeks to Boost Rice Cooperation with Vietnam The Philippines aims to enhance rice cooperation with Vietnam to ensure food security, as stated by Philippine Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel during a visit to Vietnam's key rice-producing Mekong Delta province. Vietnam, the world's third-largest rice exporter, has the Philippines as its largest buyer, with 45.4% of its rice exports going there in the first five months of the year. Due to a 1.5% annual population growth, the Philippines' rice demand outpaces domestic supply, necessitating increased imports. Laurel encouraged Vietnamese rice companies to invest in the Philippines. This visit follows agreements on rice trade and agriculture cooperation made during President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s January visit to Hanoi. To manage inflation, the Philippines recently reduced its rice tariff from 35% to 15%. 10. Singapore Approves Edible Insects for Food Singapore has approved 16 species of edible insects for sale and consumption, including locusts, grasshoppers, mealworms, and various beetles, according to a July 8 announcement from the Singapore Food Agency (SFA). Insects must be farmed in regulated premises, not harvested from the wild. This move aligns with global trends, highlighting insects as a sustainable, high-protein food source that can help combat climate change. Insects are already popular in many countries, and local chefs in Singapore are now exploring creative insect-based dishes. The SFA has established a regulatory framework to ensure the safe introduction of insects into the food market.

Police Impersonator Assaults Woman in Pattaya Bar: In Pattaya, a woman was assaulted in a bar by a man falsely claiming to be a police inspector. The incident occurred on South Pattaya Road when Aim, a 39-year-old Thai woman, was approached by a group of men, one of whom identified himself as Inspector Bee from Rayong. After a friendly exchange, he groped her, prompting Aim to challenge his identity. His companions attempted to intimidate her, but she alerted the real police. The impostor and his group fled before the police arrived. Authorities are investigating, highlighting ongoing safety concerns in nightlife areas.

Myanmar Rebels Increase Meth Production, Flooding Thailand: Myanmar rebels are increasing meth production to finance their fight against the government, flooding Thailand with drugs. Col. Meechai Nillasart of the Pha Muang Force reported seizing 151 million meth pills this fiscal year, up from 42 million last year, along with 256 kg of heroin and 1,350 kg of crystal meth. The force, responsible for a 933 km northern border, arrested 347 suspects and killed 29 traffickers. Millions more pills are believed to be stored near the Myanmar border, awaiting smuggling into Thailand. The rebels united after Myanmar's 2021 military coup.

Cannabis Advocates Protest Proposed Ban in Thailand: Cannabis advocates in Thailand protested at the Prime Minister’s Office against a proposed ban on general use. The health ministry's drug control committee recently approved relisting cannabis as a narcotic, limiting its use to medical and research purposes. Protesters, including cannabis activists and entrepreneurs, argue the government seeks to benefit select groups by criminalizing the plant again. The rally, starting at the United Nations headquarters and moving toward Government House, highlighted concerns over economic damage and monopolization. The proposal, if approved, will take effect on January 1.

Road Rage Incident in Chiang Mai Sparks Online Debate: A road rage incident in Chiang Mai involving a woman using her phone for navigation and an aggressive driver has sparked online debate. The driver tailgated, overtook, and forcibly took the woman's keys. The incident, recorded and shared online, is under police investigation.

Tourists Rescued After Speedboat Sinks Off Surat Thani Coast: A speedboat carrying tourists sank off Surat Thani due to large waves. Five people were rescued by nearby fishing boats and marine police. The incident occurred at 12:20 am, and all rescued individuals were safely returned to Laem Thuat Pier.

Thai Man Arrested for Extorting French Woman with Explicit Images: A Thai man was arrested in Pattaya for extorting a French woman with explicit images from 2017. After their breakup, he demanded 900 euros, threatening to release the content online. The victim reported him, leading to his arrest by the Thai Technology Crime Suppression Division.

Teen Brawl in Bangna Leaves Two Dead and Several Injured: A late-night brawl in Bangna resulted in the deaths of two teenagers and several injuries. The fight involved former schoolmates with ongoing animosities. Seven teenagers were arrested, and police are investigating the incident further.

Fire in Bangkok’s Chinatown Injures 30 and Damages Hotel: A fire in Bangkok's Chinatown, Yaowarat, injured around 30 people and damaged the New Empire Hotel. The fire affected a 3,200-square-metre area and was controlled by firefighters within two hours. Most injuries were due to smoke inhalation, and approximately 280 people were displaced.

Thailand to Reclassify Cannabis as Narcotic from 2025: Thailand's Ministry of Public Health plans to reclassify cannabis and hemp as illegal narcotics starting January 1, 2025, focusing on products with THC content above 0.2%. Activists, led by Prasitchai Nunual and M.L. Rungkun Kitiyakorn, plan to protest on July 8, arguing the reclassification favours specific capitalists. Protests will begin on July 7 with a march to the Government House the following day.

The transcription below provides the news stories from across Thailand and Southeast Asia Countries covered in the Good Morning Thailand program, hosted by Alex. The stories range from reclassifying cannabis in Thailand to Japan and Philippines to finalising the defence agreement. Thailand to Reclassify Cannabis as Narcotic from 2025: Thailand's Ministry of Public Health plans to reclassify cannabis and hemp as illegal narcotics starting January 1, 2025, focusing on products with THC content above 0.2%. Activists, led by Prasitchai Nunual and M.L. Rungkun Kitiyakorn, plan to protest on July 8, arguing the reclassification favours specific capitalists. Protests will begin on July 7 with a march to the Government House the following day. Fire in Bangkok’s Chinatown Injures 30 and Damages Hotel: A fire in Bangkok's Chinatown, Yaowarat, injured around 30 people and damaged the New Empire Hotel. The fire affected a 3,200-square-metre area and was controlled by firefighters within two hours. Most injuries were due to smoke inhalation, and approximately 280 people were displaced. Teen Brawl in Bangna Leaves Two Dead and Several Injured: A late-night brawl in Bangna resulted in the deaths of two teenagers and several injuries. The fight involved former schoolmates with ongoing animosities. Seven teenagers were arrested, and police are investigating the incident further. Road Rage Incident in Chiang Mai Sparks Online Debate: A road rage incident in Chiang Mai involving a woman using her phone for navigation and an aggressive driver has sparked online debate. The driver tailgated, overtook, and forcibly took the woman's keys. The incident, recorded and shared online, is under police investigation. Thai Man Arrested for Extorting French Woman with Explicit Images: A Thai man was arrested in Pattaya for extorting a French woman with explicit images from 2017. After their breakup, he demanded 900 euros, threatening to release the content online. The victim reported him, leading to his arrest by the Thai Technology Crime Suppression Division. Tourists Rescued After Speedboat Sinks Off Surat Thani Coast: A speedboat carrying tourists sank off Surat Thani due to large waves. Five people were rescued by nearby fishing boats and marine police. The incident occurred at 12:20 am, and all rescued individuals were safely returned to Laem Thuat Pier. China’s Massive Loans Plunge Laos into Debt Crisis: China's extensive loans have pushed Laos into a severe debt crisis, with over half of its $10.5 billion external debt owed to China. Critics label this as "debt trap diplomacy," alleging China uses loans to control strategic assets. Laos's economic woes are worsened by rising global costs and a depreciating currency. Japan and Philippines to Finalize Defense Agreement Amid Maritime Tensions: Japan and the Philippines will finalize a Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) at a "two plus two" meeting in Manila. The RAA, allowing troop deployments and joint training, comes amid escalating maritime tensions with China. This agreement aims to strengthen security cooperation and deter Chinese aggression in the South China Sea.

Thai Mascot Assaulted by Foreigner: Nantawat Palawat, a mascot performer in Bangkok, was assaulted by a foreigner while working. The attacker squeezed Nantawat's hand and punched his costume, causing him to lose consciousness and sustain minor injuries. Nantawat is seeking public assistance to identify the attacker and has shared his plea on Facebook, expressing his disappointment and desire for justice.

Three-Year-Old Girl Rescued from Busy Road: In Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province, a three-year-old girl was saved by a bystander, Pradit Ketpradit, after she ran into a busy road while her mother was buying noodles. Pradit sustained minor injuries while rescuing the child. The mother expressed her deep gratitude for preventing a potential tragedy.

OnlyFans Star Arrested for Involving Minors in Explicit Videos: Patipat, a transgender OnlyFans content creator in Thailand, was arrested for involving minors in explicit videos. The arrest followed an investigation into child pornography. Patipat confessed to starting his accounts six months ago and earning about 100,000 baht monthly. He faces charges of human trafficking, producing and distributing child pornography, importing obscene content for commercial purposes, and child abduction.