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Thailand's $14 Billion Handout Scheme Faces Initial Hurdles: Thailand's $14 billion handout scheme faced early issues as millions rushed to register, crashing the system. By early afternoon, 10.5 million had applied, but many struggled with access and passcode issues. The government aims to stimulate the economy with a 10,000 baht ($282) "digital wallet" for most citizens, despite funding delays and criticism. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin acknowledged initial problems but remains optimistic. The scheme, set to launch in two months, expects to boost economic growth by 1.2-1.8 percentage points next year, targeting regional economic activity outside cities.

Urgent Call for O-Negative Blood Donations in Phuket: An urgent call for O-negative blood donations has been made by the RH-Emergency Donation group in Phuket to help a Frenchman in need. Due to the rarity of this blood type in Thailand, the plea emphasizes the importance of donations from Westerners. The Phuket Red Cross is the designated donation site, and recent updates now allow donors from the UK, France, and Ireland to contribute.

Chinese Woman Rescued from 15 Million Baht Virtual Kidnapping: Thai police rescued 21-year-old Chinese woman Wang Jia Bao in Bangkok from a virtual kidnapping scheme. Scammers demanded 15 million baht from her parents, with Wang manipulated by scammers posing as Chinese police. She was tracked through security footage and found safe. This scam targets Chinese students abroad, with similar cases in Australia, New Zealand, and Canada.

The US Urges Thailand to Release a Vietnamese Activist Facing Extradition: US Congress members have urged Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin to release Vietnamese activist Y Quynh Bdap, who faces extradition despite holding UN refugee status. Bdap, a founder of Montagnards Stand for Justice, is charged with terrorism by Vietnam, though he was in Thailand during the riots. The National Human Rights Commission and Human Rights Watch emphasize Thailand's international obligations to protect him. Bdap's hearings are set for tomorrow and August 19.

The transcription below provides various news stories from Thailand and Southeast Asia, covered in Good Morning Thailand, hosted by Alex. The stories range from the arrest of former Scottish footballer Ian Heddle for crimes against children in Thailand to The 1975 being sued over a concert incident involving Matty Healy in Malaysia. 1. Scottish Former Footballer Arrested for Child Crimes in Thailand: Ex-footballer Ian Heddle, 61, has been jailed for four years for child abuse in Thailand. He was found with 272,936 indecent images and 4,001 videos of children. Arrested at Edinburgh Airport in February 2023, Heddle admitted to possessing and making the material. Three videos showed him abusing a young girl in Thailand. He received a six-year extended sentence, including two years on license, and was placed on the sex offenders' register indefinitely. 2. Drunk Driver in Ayutthaya Leads Police on High-Speed Chase: A drunk driver in Ayutthaya led police on a high-speed chase along Phahonyothin Road. Mongkol, 38, driving a red pickup truck with loudspeakers, was reported for erratic driving and playing loud music. He attempted to flee upon police arrival, leading to a dangerous chase. He was eventually stopped and found with a blood alcohol concentration of 234 milligrams per cent. Mongkol admitted to drinking and driving and now faces multiple charges. 3. Car Wash Cover-Up: DSI Finds Football Feed Behind Suds and Soap: The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) raided a car wash shop in Bangkok, uncovering an illegal football broadcasting network. Part of a larger syndicate with 100 mule accounts and 1.2 billion baht in circulation, the network also hinted at online gambling and cannabis cultivation. With over 30,000 members, the network caused financial damages exceeding 2.9 billion baht. Arrest warrants were issued for five key suspects, with two already in custody. The DSI continues to investigate. 4. US Urges Thailand to Release Vietnamese Activist Facing Extradition: US Congress members have urged Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin to release Vietnamese activist Y Quynh Bdap, who faces extradition despite holding UN refugee status. Bdap, a founder of Montagnards Stand for Justice, is charged with terrorism by Vietnam, though he was in Thailand during the riots. The National Human Rights Commission and Human Rights Watch emphasize Thailand's international obligations to protect him. Bdap's hearings are set for tomorrow and August 19. 5. Chinese Woman Rescued from 15 Million Baht Virtual Kidnapping: Thai police rescued 21-year-old Chinese woman Wang Jia Bao in Bangkok from a virtual kidnapping scheme. Scammers demanded 15 million baht from her parents, with Wang manipulated by scammers posing as Chinese police. She was tracked through security footage and found safe. This scam targets Chinese students abroad, with similar cases in Australia, New Zealand, and Canada. 6. Urgent Call for O-Negative Blood Donations in Phuket: An urgent call for O-negative blood donations has been made by the RH-Emergency Donation group in Phuket to help a Frenchman in need. Due to the rarity of this blood type in Thailand, the plea emphasizes the importance of donations from Westerners. The Phuket Red Cross is the designated donation site, and recent updates now allow donors from the UK, France, and Ireland to contribute. 7. Laos and Thailand Mark First Direct Passenger Train Between Bangkok and Vientiane: The first direct passenger train between Bangkok and Vientiane launched on July 19, providing a 13-hour journey between the capitals of Thailand and Laos. This route allows passengers to transfer to a high-speed rail line to Kunming, China. The inaugural journey was so popular that an additional carriage was added. Plans are in place to eventually offer a high-speed rail connection between Bangkok and Vientiane as part of China's Belt & Road Initiative. 8. Indonesia Raises Smoking Age Limit, Will Curb Cigarette Advertising: Indonesia has raised the minimum age for purchasing cigarettes from 18 to 21 and implemented new health regulations to combat smoking. These include banning the sale of single cigarettes, restricting sales near schools and playgrounds, and prohibiting cigarette sales and advertising on social media without age verification. Critics argue that stricter enforcement is necessary to ensure effectiveness. The advertising restrictions will take effect in two years. 9. The 1975 Sued Over Malaysia Concert with Matty Healy Kiss: The organizers of the Good Vibes Festival in Kuala Lumpur are suing British band The 1975 for £1.9m ($2.4m) after singer Matty Healy criticized Malaysia's anti-LGBT laws and kissed a band member on stage, leading to the event's cancellation. The lawsuit claims the band breached performance rules prohibiting political and religious discussions, swearing, smoking, and drinking on stage. The band's actions have also drawn criticism from Malaysia's LGBT community.

Scottish Former Footballer Arrested for Child Crimes in Thailand: Ex-footballer Ian Heddle, 61, has been jailed for four years for child abuse in Thailand. He was found with 272,936 indecent images and 4,001 videos of children. Arrested at Edinburgh Airport in February 2023, Heddle admitted to possessing and making the material. Three videos showed him abusing a young girl in Thailand. He received a six-year extended sentence, including two years on license, and was placed on the sex offenders' register indefinitely.

Drunk Driver in Ayutthaya Leads Police on High-Speed Chase: A drunk driver in Ayutthaya led police on a high-speed chase along Phahonyothin Road. Mongkol, 38, driving a red pickup truck with loudspeakers, was reported for erratic driving and playing loud music. He attempted to flee upon police arrival, leading to a dangerous chase. He was eventually stopped and found with a blood alcohol concentration of 234 milligrams per cent. Mongkol admitted to drinking and driving and now faces multiple charges.

Car Wash Cover-Up: DSI Finds Football Feed Behind Suds and Soap: The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) raided a car wash shop in Bangkok, uncovering an illegal football broadcasting network. Part of a larger syndicate with 100 mule accounts and 1.2 billion baht in circulation, the network also hinted at online gambling and cannabis cultivation. With over 30,000 members, the network caused financial damages exceeding 2.9 billion baht. Arrest warrants were issued for five key suspects, with two already in custody. The DSI continues to investigate.

Singer Exposes Taxi Driver Watching Pornography: Singer Big D Gerrard exposed a taxi driver watching pornography while stopped at a traffic light, sharing a video on TikTok. He expressed concerns about societal norms and passenger safety, urging public transport providers to maintain higher standards.

British Tourist Rescued After Falling Off Cliff in Thailand: Tourist Police rescued 25-year-old British man Callum David after he fell 5 meters from a viewpoint at Pai Canyon. He suffered minor injuries and is in stable condition at Pai Hospital. The incident highlights the need for caution during the rainy season at popular tourist spots.

Viral Video of Head-On Crash Between Taxi and Wrong-Way Driver: A viral dashcam video shows a head-on collision between a taxi and a wrong-way driver on July 28, sparking online debate. The footage shows a speeding car crashing into a taxi, raising concerns about road safety and calling for stricter traffic law enforcement. Police are expected to investigate.

The transcription below features various news stories from Thailand and Southeast Asia, hosted by Alex and Jay. The news ranges from Chinese tourists accused of killing a kitten with luggage to the death of William Calley, the face of the My Lai Massacre, at age 80. 1. Chinese Tourists Accused of Killing Kitten with Luggage: Two Chinese tourists have been condemned by Thai netizens for allegedly killing a stray kitten named Yen near Ratchathewi BTS Station in Bangkok. A witness took the injured kitten to a clinic, but it died from its injuries. The Watchdog Thailand Foundation is gathering evidence for legal action and urges witnesses to come forward. 2. Thai Monk Denies Sexual Abuse of Dogs: In Nakhon Si Thammarat, a monk has denied allegations of sexually abusing stray dogs, claiming it’s an attempt by two other monks to ruin his reputation. The accusations arose when a temple worker announced the misconduct over a loudspeaker, causing local suspicion. The monk has filed a defamation complaint against his accusers. 3. Thai Woman Sues Grab Driver for Drunk Driving and Harassment: A 20-year-old woman in Khon Kaen is suing Grab driver Rattaphum Sisompan for drinking alcohol while driving and sexually harassing her. She recorded the incident and called her boyfriend, who confronted the driver. Eye has filed a police complaint and provided the video as evidence. 4. Viral Video of Head-On Crash Between Taxi and Wrong-Way Driver: A viral dashcam video shows a head-on collision between a taxi and a wrong-way driver on July 28, sparking online debate. The footage shows a speeding car crashing into a taxi, raising concerns about road safety and calling for stricter traffic law enforcement. Police are expected to investigate. 5. Singer Exposes Taxi Driver Watching Pornography: Singer Big D Gerrard exposed a taxi driver watching pornography while stopped at a traffic light, sharing a video on TikTok. He expressed concerns about societal norms and passenger safety, urging public transport providers to maintain higher standards. 6. British Tourist Rescued After Falling Off Cliff in Thailand: Tourist Police rescued 25-year-old British man Callum David after he fell 5 meters from a viewpoint at Pai Canyon. He suffered minor injuries and is in stable condition at Pai Hospital. The incident highlights the need for caution during the rainy season at popular tourist spots. 7. Food Poisoning Outbreak at TikTok’s Singapore Office: A food poisoning outbreak at TikTok's Singapore office led to nearly 60 people falling ill, with 57 hospitalised. ByteDance is cooperating with local authorities to investigate and has taken steps to support affected employees. 8. William Calley, Face of My Lai Massacre, Dies at 80: William Calley, infamous for leading the My Lai Massacre during the Vietnam War, died in April at 80. Calley's platoon killed 504 Vietnamese civilians in 1968, sparking outrage and fueling the anti-war movement in the U.S. Initially sentenced to life, he was released after three days by President Nixon and later paroled.

https://youtube.com/shorts/-tmzZtjbXPs?feature=share Thai Monk Denies Sexual Abuse of Dogs: In Nakhon Si Thammarat, a monk has denied allegations of sexually abusing stray dogs, claiming it was an attempt by two other monks to ruin his reputation. The accusations arose when a temple worker announced the misconduct over a loudspeaker, causing local suspicion. The monk has filed a defamation complaint against his accusers.

Thai Woman Sues Grab Driver for Drunk Driving and Harassment: A 20-year-old woman in Khon Kaen is suing Grab driver Rattaphum Sisompan for drinking alcohol while driving and sexually harassing her. She recorded the incident and called her boyfriend, who confronted the driver. She has filed a police complaint and provided the video as evidence.

Chinese Tourists Accused of Killing Kitten with Luggage: Two Chinese tourists have been condemned by Thai netizens for allegedly killing a stray kitten named Yen near Ratchathewi BTS Station in Bangkok. A witness took the injured kitten to a clinic, but it died from its injuries. The Watchdog Thailand Foundation is gathering evidence for legal action and urges witnesses to come forward.

Thailand’s Longest Train Tunnel Closed for Cleaning: Thailand’s longest train tunnel, the Pha Sadet tunnel in Saraburi province, has been temporarily closed due to passenger complaints about thick dust. The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has mandated a 14-day clean-up by the contractor. The tunnel, part of a new double-track railway to northeast Thailand, spans 5.4 kilometres and has just opened. Dust, blown back inside by strong winds after initial cleaning, caused discomfort for passengers. During the closure, trains will revert to the older route, increasing travel time. The SRT plans to reopen the tunnel on August 12, ensuring it is thoroughly cleaned and safe for passengers.

Wildlife Rescuer Comatose After Cobra Bite: Jakrin Nilkamhaeng, a Thai wildlife rescuer, remains comatose five months after a king cobra bite. Bitten in a vein, Jakrin experienced severe complications, including heart stoppage for over 30 minutes, leading to significant brain damage. Now in a vegetative state, he is cared for by his mother at home. The Nick Wildlife Facebook page provides updates on his condition, balancing frequent posts to avoid accusations of seeking attention. The team has launched the SEP project to promote snake safety and reduce snake bites. Jakrin's critical situation has garnered widespread support and donations, emphasizing the importance of awareness and safety.

Bhumjaithai Party Dominates New Thai Senate: The new Thai Senate is dominated by allies of the Bhumjaithai Party, significantly influencing political power and constitutional amendments. With at least 150 senators aligned with Bhumjaithai, the party holds substantial leverage. Although senators no longer help elect the prime minister, they still participate in law passage, constitutional amendments, and overseeing the executive branch. Amending the constitution requires support from one-third of the 200 senators. Opposition to changes in Chapters 1 and 2 of the Constitution and Section 112 of the Criminal Code is strong. The blue camp, comprising Bhumjaithai-linked senators and former officials, aims to maintain their power and prevent laws undermining their privileges.

The transcription below provides an overview of the Good Morning Thailand program, hosted by Alex. The news stories cover incidents from across Thailand and Southeast Asia, ranging from the Apple ad backlash sparking a boycott threat in Thailand to Russia supporting Malaysia’s BRICS bid. Apple Ad Backlash Sparks Boycott Threat in Thailand A recent Apple advertisement has sparked outrage in Thailand, leading many locals to threaten a boycott in favour of Samsung products. The ad, "The Underdogs: OOO (Out Of Office) | Apple at Work," portrays Thailand in an outdated and negative light. English teacher David William, with a significant social media following, criticized the ad for depicting Thailand as backward and old-fashioned. The 9.57-minute video, showcasing Apple products, uses antiquated imagery that many feel misrepresents modern Thailand. William's critique has gone viral, prompting demands for more respectful portrayals of the country. Steel Plate Injures Woman on Expressway Pranee Rungsuksai was injured when a steel plate flew through her car's windshield, cutting her neck and cheek, on the Burapha Withi expressway in Samut Prakan around 6 pm on July 28. Driving to pick up her daughter, Pranee was in the middle lane when the plate pierced the right side of her windshield. Despite her injuries, she exited the expressway and waited for help. Authorities are investigating the incident, and Pranee was treated at a nearby hospital. The steel plate was found inside her car. Untaxed Cigarettes and Vapes Shop Busted Two women, Sarinya Phonkaew and Chonlada Chuewong, were arrested for selling untaxed cigarettes and illegal vaping products at a shop in Soi Pha-niang, Ratsada, netting over half a million baht in three months. The Phuket City Police seized 487 packs of untaxed cigarettes, 64 packs of vaping liquids, and 4,840 baht in cash during a raid on July 28. The women admitted to the charges and were charged under the Excise Act 2017 and the Customs Act BE 2017 for possessing and selling smuggled goods. Bhumjaithai Party Dominates New Thai Senate The new Thai Senate is dominated by allies of the Bhumjaithai Party, significantly influencing political power and constitutional amendments. With at least 150 senators aligned with Bhumjaithai, the party holds substantial leverage. Although senators no longer help elect the prime minister, they still participate in law passage, constitutional amendments, and overseeing the executive branch. Amending the constitution requires support from one-third of the 200 senators. Opposition to changes in Chapters 1 and 2 of the Constitution and Section 112 of the Criminal Code is strong. The blue camp, comprising Bhumjaithai-linked senators and former officials, aims to maintain their power and prevent laws undermining their privileges. Wildlife Rescuer Comatose After Cobra Bite Jakrin Nilkamhaeng, a Thai wildlife rescuer, remains comatose five months after a king cobra bite. Bitten in a vein, Jakrin experienced severe complications, including heart stoppage for over 30 minutes, leading to significant brain damage. Now in a vegetative state, he is cared for by his mother at home. The Nick Wildlife Facebook page provides updates on his condition, balancing frequent posts to avoid accusations of seeking attention. The team has launched the SEP project to promote snake safety and reduce snake bites. Jakrin's critical situation has garnered widespread support and donations, emphasizing the importance of awareness and safety. Thailand’s Longest Train Tunnel Closed for Cleaning Thailand’s longest train tunnel, the Pha Sadet tunnel in Saraburi province, has been temporarily closed due to passenger complaints about thick dust. The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has mandated a 14-day clean-up by the contractor. The tunnel, part of a new double-track railway to northeast Thailand, spans 5.4 kilometres and has just opened. Dust, blown back inside by strong winds after initial cleaning, caused discomfort for passengers. During the closure, trains will revert to the older route, increasing travel time. The SRT plans to reopen the tunnel on August 12, ensuring it is thoroughly cleaned and safe for passengers. Indonesian President Tests New Capital’s Palace Indonesian President Joko Widodo spent his first night in the new eagle-shaped palace of the proposed capital, Nusantara, to push forward the infrastructure project before his term ends in October. Despite multiple delays, lack of foreign investment, and managerial issues, Jokowi emphasized the project's long-term nature, potentially taking up to 20 years. Located on Borneo island, the $32 billion project aims to relieve Jakarta's burdens. Jokowi, who admitted to a restless first night, highlighted improvements in water, electricity, and internet. Although foreign funding is absent, Jokowi remains committed, with his successor, Prabowo Subianto, expected to continue the development. Russia Supports Malaysia’s BRICS Bid Malaysia’s Foreign Ministry announced that Russia supports Malaysia’s bid to join the BRICS economic bloc. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov assured Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim during his visit to Malaysia. Anwar revealed that Malaysia has already submitted its application to join BRICS, which promises significant benefits and highlights Malaysia's commitment to international collaboration. BRICS membership offers financial access and a political platform outside of Washington’s influence. Malaysia's bid follows Thailand’s similar move. In 2023, Russia was Malaysia’s eighth largest European trading partner, with bilateral trade increasing by 15.6%. Enhanced cooperation in various sectors was also discussed.

Untaxed Cigarettes and Vapes Shop Busted: Two women, Sarinya Phonkaew and Chonlada Chuewong, were arrested for selling untaxed cigarettes and illegal vaping products at a shop in Soi Pha-niang, Ratsada, netting over half a million baht in three months. The Phuket City Police seized 487 packs of untaxed cigarettes, 64 packs of vaping liquids, and 4,840 baht in cash during a raid on July 28. The women admitted to the charges and were charged under the Excise Act 2017 and the Customs Act BE 2017 for possessing and selling smuggled goods.

Steel Plate Injures Woman on Expressway: Pranee Rungsuksai was injured when a steel plate flew through her car's windshield, cutting her neck and cheek, on the Burapha Withi expressway in Samut Prakan around 6 pm on July 28. Driving to pick up her daughter, Pranee was in the middle lane when the plate pierced the right side of her windshield. Despite her injuries, she exited the expressway and waited for help. Authorities are investigating the incident, and Pranee was treated at a nearby hospital. The steel plate was found inside her car.

Apple Ad Backlash Sparks Boycott Threat in Thailand: A recent Apple advertisement has sparked outrage in Thailand, leading many locals to threaten a boycott in favour of Samsung products. The ad, "The Underdogs: OOO (Out Of Office) | Apple at Work," portrays Thailand in an outdated and negative light. English teacher David William, with a significant social media following, criticized the ad for depicting Thailand as backward and old-fashioned. The 9.57-minute video, showcasing Apple products, uses antiquated imagery that many feel misrepresents modern Thailand. William's critique has gone viral, prompting demands for more respectful portrayals of the country.

Ex- Thailand PM Thaksin Celebrates 75th Birthday Privately: Former PM Thaksin Shinawatra will celebrate his 75th birthday with a private ceremony in Bangkok, giving alms to monks and hosting a lunch for close friends.

Homeless Couple Caught Having Sex in Thai Temple: A monk in Surin's Isaan province caught a homeless couple having sex in a temple. The police were called, and the couple, who had been drinking, were warned but not charged.

Thai Teens to Lead at Paris 2024 Olympics: A 12-year-old skateboarder and an 18-year-old sprinter will lead Thailand at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Thailand's delegation includes 51 athletes, with many making their Olympic debut.