https://aseannow.com/rss/42-world-news1.xml/World news reports from around the worldenhttps://aseannow.com/thailand-news/thaksin-casts-his-vote-in-bangkok-after-20-years-r2525/Former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra cast his first vote in Thailand in around 20 years on Sunday 28 June 2026, marking a symbolic return to the ballot box during the Bangkok governor and Bangkok Metropolitan Council (BMC) elections. His appearance, alongside former prime minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and other members of the Shinawatra family, drew national attention and added political significance to what was otherwise a local election. Get today's headlines by email Thaksin voted at polling station No. 14 in Bang Phlat subdistrict, Bang Phlat district, near Charan Sanitwong 69. Speaking afterwards, he said he felt “excited, happy and proud to be Thai”, joking that he had not voted for so long that he was unsure of the process and was careful not to do anything that might breach the constitution. He described voting as a civic duty and encouraged people to exercise their democratic rights. Thaksin said those who chose not to vote could not later complain if elected representatives performed poorly, adding that voters always had the opportunity to choose new representatives at the end of a term. The former premier recalled that the last time he voted was while serving as prime minister before the 2006 military coup. Referring to the April 2006 general election, which was later ruled unconstitutional because of the ballot arrangement, he said it was the last election in which he voted before his lengthy absence from Thailand’s electoral process. Asked what qualities Bangkok’s next governor should possess, Thaksin said the capital required a capable and dedicated leader able to improve infrastructure and tackle persistent traffic problems despite budget limitations. He said a governor who lacked commitment could not simply “drift along”. Meanwhile, Paetongtarn Shinawatra voted at polling station No. 15 at Kheha Thani 3 housing estate in Ram Inthra subdistrict, Khan Na Yao district. She was accompanied by her mother, Khunying Potjaman Damapong, her elder sister Pinthongtha Shinawatra Kunakornwong, her husband Pitaka Suksawat and their two children. The family greeted supporters before voting in an orderly manner. The Nation reported that the visibility of both Thaksin and Paetongtarn turned the Bangkok election into a wider political moment, reflecting the Shinawatra family’s continuing prominence in Thai politics. Thaksin maintained that his appearance was simply to fulfil his duty as a citizen rather than to make a political statement. Picture courtesy of The Nation Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 29 June 2026Sun, 28 Jun 2026 21:41:41 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/thailand-says-china-to-stay-neutral-r2524/Thailand has expressed confidence that China will maintain a neutral position amid ongoing tensions with Cambodia, following Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen’s visit to Beijing. Get today's headlines by email Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow said on Saturday 27 June 2926, that Cambodia’s engagement with China was a normal part of bilateral relations and insisted Beijing had not taken sides in the dispute between the neighbouring countries. He said he believed China understood how it should position itself and would avoid any action that could worsen the conflict. “I believe China knows how it should position itself. Bilateral relations between China and Cambodia are normal, but China also knows it should avoid doing anything that could affect the conflict,” Sihasak said. The foreign minister also urged the public not to overreact to reports originating from Cambodia, warning that some information was being released to reinforce Cambodia’s own narrative. “Don’t be swayed by every report. Some of the news comes from Cambodia and is intended to favour its own position,” he said. Responding to reports that Cambodia was seeking to purchase ammunition from China, Sihasak said such defence cooperation had already been agreed previously and was not connected to the current dispute between Thailand and Cambodia. He added that China had long-standing interests in Cambodia, including military cooperation and facilities, but said these should not be interpreted as support for either side in the dispute. “China has interests in Cambodia, including existing cooperation such as military facilities, but that should not affect the Thailand-Cambodia situation or signal support for either side. I believe China understands this well,” he said. Khaosod reported that Sihasak also confirmed that the compulsory conciliation process under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) would continue as planned. He said Thailand would assess any outcome according to whether it was fair and consistent with the country’s national interests. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 29 June 2026Sun, 28 Jun 2026 21:33:19 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/girl-3-rescued-from-washing-machine-in-phang-nga-r2523/A three-year-old girl was rescued after becoming trapped inside the spin-dryer drum of a washing machine for more than two hours at a home in Village 3, Kura subdistrict, Kuraburi district, Phang Nga province, on June 28. The child lost consciousness before emergency responders freed her and doctors later confirmed she was safe. Get today's headlines by email The incident happened after the girl climbed into the washing machine’s spin-dryer drum while playing at home. According to her grandmother, she crawled inside and was unable to climb back out. She is believed to have remained trapped for more than two hours before family members noticed her and called for help. Rescue workers from the Ranong Rescue Foundation, Kuraburi unit, arrived to find the child visibly exhausted inside the drum. As her condition deteriorated and she lost consciousness, the team decided to remove the entire spin-dryer assembly from the washing machine while leaving the girl inside to avoid causing further injury. She was rushed to Kuraburi Chai Pattana Hospital, where doctors and nurses immediately administered oxygen and monitored her condition closely. At the hospital, rescue personnel used specialised cutting and spreading equipment to carefully remove the plastic structure of the spin-dryer drum section by section while taking care not to injure the child. The team successfully freed the girl from the drum. Her family and the emergency responders expressed relief, and doctors confirmed that she was safe and remained under close medical observation. The incident has been highlighted as an important reminder for parents and carers to supervise young children closely, particularly around household appliances. Rescue workers noted that washing machines, refrigerators and other enclosed household items can pose serious risks if children become trapped inside them. Amarin reported that the girl’s condition will continue to be monitored by medical staff as she recovers. No further details about her injuries or any additional medical treatment were released. Pictures courtesy of Amarin Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Amarin 29 June 2026Sun, 28 Jun 2026 21:18:45 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/volunteer-shoots-three-migrants-dead-in-chachoengsao-r2522/Three Myanmar migrant workers were shot dead and another man was seriously injured following a confrontation with a village security volunteer in Chachoengsao province late on 27 June. Police said the shooting happened at around 11.30pm in Ban Nong Nam Dam, Koh Khanun subdistrict, Phanom Sarakham district. Get today's headlines by email Officers who responded to the scene found the bodies of three Myanmar nationals, each with multiple gunshot wounds. Their identities had not yet been confirmed. A Thai man, identified as Pichai Daphantha, suffered serious stab wounds to his left side and was taken to Phanom Sarakham Hospital before police arrived. Investigators recovered more than 16 spent shell casings, along with a handgun and a knife believed to have been used during the confrontation. Police forensic officers examined the scene while collecting evidence as part of the ongoing investigation. The shooter, 24-year-old village security volunteer Theerapat Nopthao, told police that he and a friend had gone to warn several groups of migrant workers who were drinking alcohol and playing loud music near a residential area. He claimed an argument followed, during which his friend was struck with a bottle before falling to the ground and being stabbed. According to Theerapat, around 10 men armed with knives then ran towards him. He said he opened fire in self-defence. Police have not independently confirmed his account, and investigators continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Authorities have not yet announced whether any charges will be filed. Police said forensic evidence and witness statements would form part of the investigation as they work to establish the sequence of events and determine whether the use of force was legally justified. Khaosod reported that the case has drawn attention because it involves multiple fatalities and competing accounts of what happened before the shooting. The identities of the three deceased Myanmar nationals remain unconfirmed as police continue their inquiries. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 29 June 2026Sun, 28 Jun 2026 21:02:51 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/beer-wins-pattaya-mayoral-election-r2521/Poramese "Beer" Ngamphichet has won the Pattaya mayoral election by a commanding margin after unofficial results showed him securing more than 60% of the vote. The final unofficial count, completed at 10.19pm on 28 June 2026, covered all 113 polling stations and gave the We Love Pattaya candidate a lead of more than 8,600 votes over his nearest rival. Get today's headlines by email Poramese, candidate number 2, received 20,184 votes, representing 60.6% of ballots cast. Candidate number 1, Itthiwat Wattanasartsathorn, finished second with 11,566 votes (34.8%), followed by Sakchai Tanghor with 1,077 votes (3.2%), Suinee Charoensuk with 265 votes (0.8%), and Ittipol Niankup Singkhonkaew with 191 votes (0.6%). The election attracted 34,677 voters from a total electorate of 80,196, resulting in a turnout of 43.24%. Of the ballots cast, 33,283 were valid (95.98%), 589 were invalid (1.70%), and 805 voters chose not to support any candidate (2.32%). The result also delivered a clean sweep for the We Love Pattaya group in the Pattaya City Council elections. The group secured all 24 council seats across the city’s four electoral districts, giving it full control of the council alongside the mayoralty. The election marked the conclusion of Pattaya’s latest local vote, with the unofficial count completed on 28 June 2026. The outcome gives Poramese a decisive mandate, although the figures remain provisional until formally endorsed by Thailand’s Election Commission. SiamChon reported that The Election Commission is expected to review and formally certify the election results before they take legal effect. Until then, the announced figures remain unofficial despite the completion of the vote count. Picture courtesy of SiamChon Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now SiamChon 29 June 2026Sun, 28 Jun 2026 20:53:46 +0000https://aseannow.com/worldnews/us-iran-strikes-escalate-jeopardising-fragile-truce-r1314/The fragile ceasefire between the United States and Iran has come under renewed strain after both sides exchanged fresh military strikes, raising fears that recent diplomatic progress could collapse. Get today's headlines by email Iran launched drones and missiles at Bahrain and Kuwait on Sunday following new US strikes on military facilities in southern Iran. Tehran warned it could suspend negotiations aimed at ending the conflict, while US President Donald Trump threatened overwhelming military action if talks failed. Writing on social media, Trump said the United States could soon abandon negotiations and "militarily finish the job", adding that, if forced to do so, "the Islamic Republic of Iran will no longer exist." Attacks Spread Across Gulf RegionKuwait said its air defences intercepted two ballistic missiles and reported no casualties or damage. Bahrain said an Iranian strike damaged a residential building near its international airport, although no deaths were reported. Qatar said one of its citizens was killed and another injured by shrapnel while aboard a boat that had gone missing the previous day. Authorities did not specify where the incident occurred or whether it was directly linked to the Iranian attacks. Strait of Hormuz Dispute Drives TensionsThe latest escalation centres on competing plans to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most strategically important shipping routes, without Iran maintaining direct control. Before the conflict, roughly one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies passed through the waterway. The US military said its latest strikes targeted Iranian surveillance systems, communications infrastructure, air defence positions, drone storage facilities and mine-laying sites. US Central Command said the operation was a response to continued Iranian attacks on commercial shipping. Washington has promoted a southern shipping corridor along Oman's coastline, while Tehran insists vessels should instead transit through northern waters under Iranian oversight, where it ultimately hopes to impose transit fees. Hundreds of commercial vessels have remained stranded since the strait was closed after fighting began. Although some ships have resumed using the route in recent weeks, helping oil prices fall closer to pre-war levels, attacks on commercial shipping have continued. The US accused Iran of attacking the Panama-flagged oil tanker Kiku on Saturday while it was using the southern corridor. A Singapore-flagged container ship was also reportedly hit by an Iranian drone last week while following the same route. Diplomacy Faces Mounting PressureIranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reiterated Tehran's claim that only Iran should oversee navigation through the Strait of Hormuz during a visit to Iraq. He warned that any attempt to establish alternative arrangements would complicate efforts to reopen the waterway and further increase regional tensions. Araghchi also called for a regional security framework involving Gulf states but excluding the United States. Qatar and Pakistan have been mediating negotiations between Washington and Tehran after helping bring both sides together in Switzerland earlier this month. However, major disagreements remain over the future of the strait, sanctions relief and Iran's nuclear programme. Under an interim memorandum signed earlier this month, both countries have 60 days to negotiate a permanent agreement. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed responsibility for Sunday's attacks and warned that any ceasefire violations would halt the diplomatic process. It also threatened US military bases across the region. Fighting Continues in LebanonThe renewed violence has also spread beyond the Gulf, threatening efforts to stabilise neighbouring Lebanon. Israel said one of its soldiers was killed during an encounter with a Hezbollah fighter in southern Lebanon. Lebanese state media also reported fresh Israeli strikes near the towns of Deir Seryan and Taybeh. The clashes came just two days after Israel and Lebanon reached an agreement intended to reduce hostilities, including the phased withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon and their replacement by the Lebanese army. The continued fighting further complicates efforts to secure a lasting agreement between Washington and Tehran, with Iran maintaining that any broader peace depends on a sustained ceasefire in Lebanon. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 29 June 2026Sun, 28 Jun 2026 20:51:51 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/un-urges-southeast-asia-to-end-drug-criminalisation-r2520/A United Nations-backed call to end the criminalisation of drug use has urged Southeast Asian governments, including Thailand, to abandon punitive drug policies, arguing that decades of enforcement have failed to reduce drug markets while causing widespread social and human rights harm. Get today's headlines by email The appeal follows the release of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) regional report earlier this month, which found record levels of drug seizures across Southeast and East Asia, particularly of methamphetamine and ketamine. Despite increased enforcement, retail drug prices have fallen in Myanmar, Thailand and Indonesia, suggesting synthetic drugs are more widely available than ever. The findings were reinforced by the UNODC World Drug Report 2026, published earlier this week ahead of World Drug Day on 27 June. The article argues that governments have focused heavily on law enforcement and harsher penalties in the belief that punishment would deter drug trafficking. Singapore, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand and Malaysia continue to have death sentences for drug trafficking. Although the Philippines abolished the death penalty, former president Rodrigo Duterte’s anti-drugs campaign resulted in 8,663 officially reported extrajudicial killings, while the UN human rights office estimates the true figure could exceed 20,000. Duterte now faces charges of crimes against humanity before the International Criminal Court. Across the region, more than half of prisoners in many countries are incarcerated for drug offences. Thailand has the world’s second-highest rate of female imprisonment, with more than 60% of female inmates jailed for drug-related crimes. Indonesia, followed closely by the Philippines, has experienced the world’s fastest growth in female incarceration, again largely driven by drug offences. The report also criticises compulsory drug treatment programmes, noting that many are operated by police or military authorities and have been identified by international and national human rights bodies as sites of torture, forced labour and other abuses. It argues that criminalising drug use creates stigma that discourages people from seeking help. The report author says ASEAN leaders reaffirmed their commitment to a “drug-free” region during the summit in the Philippines in May without acknowledging the costs or the lack of progress over more than two decades. Instead, policymakers are urged to adopt evidence-based approaches that prioritise health, welfare and human rights. The Bangkokpost reports that the report highlights growing international support for reforms including harm reduction, decriminalisation and responsible regulation of drugs. More than 30 countries have already decriminalised drug use, while Thailand has done so for cannabis and kratom. The report concludes that Southeast Asian governments should move beyond limited reforms and end the criminalisation of drug use, possession for personal use and related activities in line with recommendations from UN drug, health and human rights authorities. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Bangkokpost 29 June 2026Sun, 28 Jun 2026 20:42:36 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/chadchart-wins-second-bangkok-term-r2519/Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt has declared victory in the Bangkok governor election after unofficial results showed the independent incumbent heading for a landslide second term. With 89.86% of ballots counted on Sunday night, Chadchart had received around 1.444 million votes, compared with 288,171 for his nearest rival, Mallika Boonmeetrakool Mahasuk. The result, pending official certification by the Election Commission, gives him another four years to continue his administration of the capital. Get today's headlines by email Chadchart said the outcome was “not a victory, but a command from the people”, stressing that the result brought greater responsibility rather than celebration. He thanked Bangkok residents for exercising their democratic rights and pledged to serve all citizens regardless of how they voted. He also noted that his vote share had increased from around 51% in the 2022 election to about 64% in the current unofficial count, reflecting broader public support for his policies. His first priority after official endorsement will be to convert more than 260 campaign policies into a strategic plan, with an urgent programme for the first 100 days. Chadchart said his administration would tackle the city’s most difficult problems first, including flooding, traffic and other long-term urban challenges, while maintaining a strong focus on transparency and anti-corruption. Chadchart also confirmed he had received a congratulatory phone call from People’s Party candidate Chaiwat Sathawornwichit, who shared policy ideas on early childhood development centres and flood prevention. The governor said he was willing to work with all political groups and would consider useful proposals from any source, adding that “everyone is an ally” after the election. A civil engineer by training, Chadchart first gained prominence as a transport specialist before serving as deputy transport minister and later transport minister under former prime minister Yingluck Shinawatra. He later stood as an independent candidate and won the 2022 Bangkok governor election with 1,386,215 votes, campaigning on the slogan “Bangkok, a liveable city for all”. During his first term, Chadchart focused on data-driven urban management, introducing improved flood monitoring systems, district-level problem tracking and technology-based public services. His administration also expanded social policies, with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration receiving the UNDP Gender Equality Seal Gold in 2026, becoming the first public institution in Asia and the Pacific to achieve the certification. The Nation reported that if confirmed by the Election Commission, Chadchart’s second term will begin with higher public expectations as voters judge the progress of his first four years in office. His administration will face continued pressure to deliver lasting improvements in traffic, drainage, public transport, waste management, green spaces, public health and safety while working with national agencies and the Bangkok Metropolitan Council. Chadchart said his long-term goal is to make Bangkok a globally competitive city through cooperation between residents, officials and all sectors. Picture courtesy of The Nation Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 29 June 2026Sun, 28 Jun 2026 20:35:40 +0000https://aseannow.com/worldnews/11-killed-after-skydiver-school-plane-crashes-in-france-r1313/French authorities say 11 people have died after a civilian aircraft crashed in north-eastern France shortly after take-off from a local airfield. Get today's headlines by email The aircraft came down in the town of Tomblaine, in the Meurthe-et-Moselle department, killing the pilot and all 10 passengers on board. All on Board KilledLocal officials said the victims included five students and five instructors. The aircraft belonged to a skydiver training school and had departed from the Nancy-Essey airfield before the crash, according to local media. No survivors have been reported. Emergency ResponsePolice have urged people to avoid the area around the airport while emergency services respond to the incident and secure the crash site. The cause of the crash has not yet been announced. Interior Minister Travelling to SceneFrance's interior ministry said the interior minister was travelling to the crash site as authorities continued their response. An investigation into the circumstances of the crash is expected. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 28 June 2026Sun, 28 Jun 2026 12:41:18 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/bull-subdued-after-rampage-on-sattahip-road-r2518/Responders surrounded and captured an injured bull after it became aggressive and charged at people and vehicles, on Sukhumvit Road in Sattahip, Chon Buri, during the early hours of 28 June 2026. The animal, which had been earlier struck by a vehicle, caused panic among motorists and pedestrians as it repeatedly attempted to gore anyone who approached and ran into live traffic. Get today's headlines by email The rescue centre of the Sawang Rojanathammasathan Sattahip Foundation received the emergency call at 12.10am. It was reported that a bull had been hit by a vehicle, was injured and behaving aggressively near the foot of the flyover at a Junction on the inbound Pattaya section of Sukhumvit Road in Sattahip district. The foundation requested support from the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Unit of Khet Udomsak Municipality, with personnel joining the operation. At the scene, officers found a grey Toyota Avanza, registration from Bangkok, with damage to the left front after colliding with the bull. Pictures courtesy of Responders The driver, Flight Lieutenant Wattanachai Linidta, 76, a retired Royal Thai Air Force officer, was uninjured and remained at the scene to provide a statement to police. The injured white bull, estimated to be two to three years old, had multiple wounds, was bleeding from its nose and chest, and was limping. The animal appeared frightened and repeatedly charged at people while trying to escape the cordon, eventually running into the middle of the busy road, knocking two off a motorcycle and forcing motorists to brake suddenly to avoid further collisions. Emergency personnel sealed off possible escape routes before an officer successfully lassoed the bull. Startled by the rope, the animal became even more aggressive, using its horns to ram a rescue vehicle and causing further damage before fleeing down an embankment, where it fell and was finally restrained. No one was seriously injured during the operation, although two vehicles sustained damage. After the situation was brought under control, officers coordinated with the duty officer at Sattahip Police Station to take custody of the bull while efforts continue to locate its owner. The owner will be asked to collect the animal for treatment and compensate members of the public for the damage caused. AQMFtGu1dvC7QjlRJy-PUee7ZMDtqpEF2_e6S0lCwHQJfwK_5TL8ABPPZ7F5rrnwu9K6-wYlHL6bUNmEQpbzQtIgAknuoodT4dryhitGjw.mp4 Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now 28 June 2026Sun, 28 Jun 2026 08:33:51 +0000https://aseannow.com/worldnews/prosecutor-held-in-contempt-in-charlie-kirk-murder-case-r1312/A Utah judge has held a prosecutor in civil contempt for violating a pretrial publicity order in the murder case against the man accused of killing conservative activist Charlie Kirk, but declined to remove the death penalty as a possible sentence if the defendant is convicted. Get today's headlines by email Judge Tony Graf ruled on Friday that prosecutor Christopher Ballard, who also serves as a spokesperson for the Utah County Attorney’s Office, made public comments that risked prejudicing potential jurors. The remarks were made while responding to media reports about an inconclusive ballistics report referenced in a defense court filing. Graf found Ballard was entitled to clarify aspects of the forensic report after the defense publicised its interpretation. However, the judge said the prosecutor went too far by commenting on the overall strength of the state's case against defendant Tyler Robinson. In his ruling, Graf said Ballard’s additional remarks created a substantial likelihood of influencing prospective jurors by expressing the prosecution’s view of Robinson’s guilt. He said those comments introduced an unnecessary discussion of the merits of the case rather than simply correcting misconceptions about the evidence. Picture courtesy of NewsNation Death Penalty Bid RemainsDespite finding Ballard in contempt, Graf rejected the defence's request to bar prosecutors from pursuing the death penalty if Robinson is ultimately convicted. Instead, the judge said any potential impact from the prosecutor’s comments could be addressed during jury selection. He also ordered that the defence be reimbursed for legal costs associated with the contempt proceedings. The ruling is a setback for Robinson, 23, who faces charges including aggravated murder, felony use of a firearm, obstruction of justice, witness tampering and committing a violent act in the presence of a child. The charges stem from the fatal shooting of Kirk on a Utah college campus last September. Robinson has not yet entered pleas. Dispute Over Ballistics EvidenceThe contempt dispute centred on statements Ballard made after news organisations reported on a defence filing concerning an inconclusive ballistics examination by the US Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). According to the defence filing, the ATF could not identify the bullet recovered during Kirk’s autopsy as having been fired from the rifle allegedly linked to Robinson. Prosecutors argued that description omitted another key finding: the ATF was also unable to rule out the rifle as the source of the bullet. Ballard maintained his comments were intended to explain why forensic testing can sometimes produce inconclusive results and to counter what he described as misinformation contained in the defence filing. Graf agreed those explanations fell within an exception to the court’s publicity order, which permits limited public comments to counter potentially prejudicial publicity. However, the judge ruled that Ballard crossed the line when he later told TMZ that prosecutors had "ample evidence" against Robinson and believed they could overcome the presumption of innocence at trial. Graf concluded those comments were unrelated to correcting misunderstandings about the ballistics report and instead reflected the prosecution’s opinion of the case. Further Proceedings AheadThe contempt ruling followed earlier hearings on evidentiary issues and a defence request to prevent prosecutors from seeking the death penalty as a sanction for the publicity violation. Prosecutors argued such a penalty would be disproportionate, while the defence suggested other possible sanctions against Ballard, including legal education requirements or referral to the state bar association. Although Graf declined to impose the defence's requested remedy, the contempt finding and reimbursement of legal fees remain in place as the case moves toward further pretrial proceedings. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 28 June 2026Sun, 28 Jun 2026 07:55:39 +0000https://aseannow.com/worldnews/texas-approves-mandatory-bible-reading-in-schools-r1311/The Texas State Board of Education has voted to require public school students to read selected passages from the Bible as part of a new statewide literature curriculum. Get today's headlines by email The Republican-controlled board approved the required reading list on Friday by a 9-5-1 vote. The list includes excerpts from the Book of Exodus for fifth-grade students, The Shepherd's Psalm for seventh graders and other biblical passages. The new curriculum also features works by E.B. White, Shel Silverstein, Aesop, Kurt Vonnegut and Elie Wiesel. It will affect more than five million students enrolled in Texas public schools. Bible added to mandatory literature listBoard members debated the proposal before the vote, discussing the timeline for implementation and whether the changes would limit teachers' ability to decide which works should be taught in their classrooms. Supporters cite historical and literary valueJulie Pickren, a Republican member of the Texas State Board of Education, previously told The Texas Tribune that the selected readings are intended to give students a better understanding of the moral and philosophical traditions that have shaped Western civilization. She said studying original writings, speeches, sermons and other foundational texts allows students to evaluate ideas while gaining a deeper understanding of the principles that have influenced both the United States and Texas. Supporters have argued that the Bible holds significant literary and historical value and should be studied alongside other influential works. Critics raise constitutional concernsOpponents of the measure argued that requiring a state-approved reading list reduces teachers' professional independence. Board member Evelyn Brooks said teachers have selected classroom books for many years and should retain that responsibility. She argued that imposing a mandatory list takes away their autonomy and said she believes the policy is unconstitutional. The debate over the proposal focused not only on the inclusion of biblical passages but also on whether the state should dictate required reading for every public school classroom. Experts question broader impactAntero Garcia, a professor at Stanford University's Graduate School of Education and a former high school English teacher, described the new curriculum as a major shift in what students across Texas will study during their years in public education. Garcia said he believes the measure is the first of its kind at the state level and suggested other states with similar political priorities could adopt comparable policies. He acknowledged that the Bible has long been taught as an important work of literature in secular educational settings and said its literary significance should not be overlooked. However, Garcia noted that no other religious texts appear on the mandatory reading list. He said repeated exposure to a single religious work throughout students' education, without comparable study of other faith traditions, could influence students toward Christianity over time. The decision marks a significant change to Texas' public school literature curriculum and is expected to shape classroom instruction across the state's education system. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 28 June 2026Sun, 28 Jun 2026 02:50:02 +0000https://aseannow.com/worldnews/us-launches-fresh-strikes-on-iran-after-tanker-attack-r1310/The United States has carried out a new round of strikes on Iran after a drone attack hit a Panama-flagged oil tanker in the Strait of Hormuz, further escalating tensions despite a ceasefire agreement reached earlier this month. Get today's headlines by email US Central Command (Centcom) said the strikes targeted military equipment, communications systems, air defence sites and drone storage facilities. It described the operation as a direct response to what it called Iran's continued attacks on commercial shipping. According to Centcom, Iran had been given an opportunity to uphold the ceasefire but instead launched a one-way attack drone that struck the tanker MT Kiku. The US military said its response was intended to deter further attacks on vessels using the strategic waterway. Iran vows stronger responseIran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said the US had struck five coastal positions, claiming Washington justified the attacks by accusing the IRGC Navy of confronting the tanker. The IRGC also announced missile and drone strikes against US infrastructure in Kuwait and Bahrain. It warned that violations of the ceasefire would halt the implementation of the agreement and said any future attacks, regardless of their scale, would receive a "crushing response". The statement added that, under a memorandum of understanding signed earlier this month, Iran has authority over navigation arrangements in the Strait of Hormuz and said vessels deemed to be in violation would face tougher enforcement measures. Following the Iranian response, Kuwait said its air defence systems had intercepted hostile missiles and drones, while Bahrain urged residents to remain calm and seek shelter in safe locations. Trump issues fresh warningUS President Donald Trump responded on Truth Social, saying it was "very possible" that Tehran would "never learn". He warned that there could come a point when the United States would no longer be able to act with restraint and would instead "militarily complete the job" it had begun. Trump added that, if that happened, "the Islamic Republic of Iran will no longer exist." Despite the renewed fighting, Centcom said commercial shipping continued to move through the Strait of Hormuz. Shipping dispute deepensThe latest military action came less than a day after the US launched strikes in response to a separate drone attack on the Singapore-flagged cargo ship MV Ever Lovely on 25 June. Washington said that earlier attack breached the ceasefire by targeting commercial shipping. Tehran rejected that claim, arguing the vessel had travelled through the Gulf using an unauthorised route and that the US retaliation itself violated the agreement. The ceasefire memorandum, agreed on 17 June, called on Iran to use its "best efforts" to ensure the safe, toll-free passage of commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz for 60 days. The waterway, which handles a significant share of global oil and gas exports, was effectively closed after US and Israeli strikes on Iran in February, disrupting energy markets and pushing up global oil prices. In recent days, US officials had expressed optimism about negotiations, with Trump stating that Iran had assured Washington it would not impose tolls or other charges on ships using the strait. He warned that talks would end immediately if those assurances proved false. Iranian and Omani officials met in Muscat earlier this week to discuss future navigation arrangements. While Oman reiterated support for toll-free passage, Iran's chief negotiator, Mohammed Bagher Ghalibaf, said the administration of the Strait of Hormuz "will never go back to the way it was before the war." Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 28 June 2026Sun, 28 Jun 2026 02:38:10 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/turk-held-with-cocaine-at-suvarnabhumi-r2517/Thai customs officials have arrested a Turkish passenger at Suvarnabhumi Airport after discovering more than 12 kilogrammes of cocaine concealed inside coffee bags and chocolate packaging. The drugs, which officials estimate have a street value of around 36 million baht, were allegedly smuggled into Thailand on a flight from Sao Paulo/Guarulhos International Airport in Brazil. Get today's headlines by email The arrest was announced by Customs Department director-general Phantong Loykulnanta, who said the operation formed part of the government’s urgent policy to combat transnational drug trafficking. The operation was carried out on June 25, by the department’s Investigation and Suppression Bureau in cooperation with the Airport Interdiction Task Force. Officials searched the passenger’s luggage after his arrival from Brazil and allegedly found the cocaine hidden inside food packaging. Customs officers seized the drugs, detained the suspect and transferred him to investigators from the Narcotics Suppression Bureau for further legal proceedings. Authorities said the investigation is now being expanded to identify any wider trafficking network connected to the case. Officials believe international criminal groups continue to exploit global air travel routes to transport narcotics into Thailand. Under Thai law, cocaine is classified as a Category 2 narcotic. Those convicted of importing or exporting narcotics for commercial purposes face charges under the Customs Act B.E. 2560 and the Narcotics Code, with penalties of up to 15 years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to 1.5 million baht, or both. The Customs Department said the seizure highlights ongoing efforts to strengthen border security against organised drug trafficking. Authorities have increased inspections using advanced scanning technology, K-9 detection dogs, intelligence analysis and closer cooperation with domestic and international law enforcement agencies. From October 1, 2025, to June 25, 2026, customs officials seized narcotics and psychotropic substances in 214 cases. The total estimated value of the seized drugs exceeded 692 million baht. Crystal methamphetamine, commonly known as “ice”, remained the most frequently seized drug by number of cases, quantity and value. Postal and express parcel deliveries accounted for more than 76.6% of all drug-related cases detected during the nine-month period, while officials also reported increasing attempts to smuggle newer psychotropic substances including zopiclone and etomidate. The Nation reported that The Customs Department said it will continue expanding investigations in every case to dismantle the transnational criminal organisations behind drug trafficking. Officials also urged the public to report suspicious activity to help prevent narcotics from spreading in Thailand. Pictures courtesy of The Nation Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 28 June 2026Sat, 27 Jun 2026 22:55:23 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/omani-tourist-hurt-as-elephant-kills-mahout-in-phang-nga-r2516/A 20-year-old male elephant used for tourist rides killed its mahout and injured an Omani tourist after becoming agitated in Phang Nga on 27 June. Get today's headlines by email The fatal attack occurred in Moo 2, Song Phraek subdistrict, Mueang district, after the elephant, named Plai Thongkham, reportedly became distressed during a tour carrying two foreign tourists. Authorities said the elephant attempted to enter a stream, but its mahout used a hook to prevent it from doing so. According to witnesses, the elephant became aggressive, throwing one of the tourists from its back. The injured tourist, a 33-year-old man from Oman, was taken to Phang Nga Hospital for treatment. The elephant then ran about 100 metres from the stream before throwing its mahout, 32-year-old Chaiyan Pradapsri from Prasat district, Surin province, to the ground. It subsequently attacked him with its trunk and feet, causing fatal injuries. Officials said he suffered extensive fractures and a broken neck. Following the attack, Plai Thongkham fled into nearby forest. Local officials, including Song Phraek subdistrict headman Boonrong Sawatdichai, police from Thung Kha Ngok Police Station, officers from the Phang Nga Provincial Livestock Office, and forensic physician Dr Montri Thanakit attended the scene to investigate. Witness accounts suggested the elephant’s aggression may have been triggered after being prevented from entering the water, although authorities have not confirmed the exact cause of the attack. Authorities are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. The Phang Nga Provincial Livestock Office has assembled a team equipped with tranquiliser guns and sedatives to locate and subdue Plai Thongkham. Officials said the elephant remains agitated, raising concerns that it could pose a further risk to people in the area if not safely captured. Pictures courtesy of Daily News Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 28 June 2026Sat, 27 Jun 2026 22:41:07 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/airports-of-thailand-cuts-growth-forecast-r2515/Airports of Thailand (AOT) has sharply reduced its passenger growth forecast for the 2026 fiscal year to possibly below one per cent, citing global economic uncertainty and geopolitical tensions, while maintaining expansion plans to meet long-term demand. Get today's headlines by email The revised forecast marks a significant downgrade from AOT’s earlier projections of six per cent growth, later cut to around three per cent. The latest reduction follows the impact of conflict in the Middle East, which has driven up aviation fuel prices, increasing operating costs for airlines. AOT president and chief executive officer Paweena Jariyathitipong said the company’s six airports handled 552,119 flights during the first eight months of the fiscal year, covering October 2025 to May 2026. This represented a 1.38 per cent increase compared with the same period a year earlier. Passenger numbers reached 90.98 million, up 2.76 per cent year-on-year, including 55.2 million international travellers and 35.7 million domestic passengers. Despite the weaker outlook for this year, AOT expects passenger numbers to recover modestly in fiscal 2027, forecasting growth of around two per cent. Total passenger traffic is expected to increase from approximately 126 million to between 128.5 million and 129 million, provided the situation in the Middle East remains stable, even if oil prices stay elevated. AOT remains confident about the long-term prospects for aviation. The company cited forecasts from the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), the International Air Transport Association (IATA), Airports Council International (ACI), and global consultants, which project worldwide passenger numbers will rise by around 20 per cent over the next 20 years from the current five billion travellers. Thailand is expected to be among the five countries benefiting most from this growth as much of the expansion is forecast to occur across Asia. To prepare for future demand, AOT is continuing a 300 billion baht infrastructure investment programme across its six airports, aiming to increase annual capacity to 160 million passengers by 2034. The initial investment will be funded through passenger service fee revenue rather than borrowing to avoid increasing public debt. Expansion projects include new terminal developments at Suvarnabhumi Airport, which is expected to accommodate 70 million passengers annually once eastern and southern extensions are completed between 2031 and 2033. Don Mueang Airport will add a third passenger terminal and a Junction Terminal to raise capacity to 40 million passengers a year. Chiang Mai Airport is reviewing plans for a new passenger terminal, while Phuket Airport is designing an expansion scheduled for 2028 to 2031 to ease congestion. Hat Yai Airport is preparing a master plan after exceeding its current terminal capacity, and Chiang Rai Airport is drafting terms of reference for a terminal upgrade project. The ThaiNewsRoom reported that AOT is also restructuring its organisation to improve efficiency. Operating expenses rose by only two per cent during the first two quarters of fiscal 2026, below the typical annual increase of eight to 10 per cent. The company is also expanding non-aviation revenue by developing more than 2,000 rai of land around its airports for hotels, logistics facilities, electric vehicle charging stations and other aviation-related businesses. Picture courtesy of TNR Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Thainewsroom 28 June 2026Sat, 27 Jun 2026 22:30:48 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/swiss-founder-built-dementia-care-facility-in-chiang-mai-r2514/A Swiss man who moved to Thailand to care for his mother with Alzheimer’s disease has gone on to establish a dementia care facility in Chiang Mai, offering long-term support for international residents at a fraction of the cost of comparable care in Europe and North America. Get today's headlines by email Martin Woodtli, 65, relocated his mother from Switzerland to Chiang Mai in 2003 after years of caring for her following an Alzheimer’s diagnosis. After his father, who had been her primary caregiver, developed depression and later died by suicide, Woodtli became solely responsible for her care and began searching for alternatives. Dissatisfied with the institutional atmosphere and high costs of Swiss care facilities, Woodtli chose to return to Chiang Mai, where he had previously worked with Doctors Without Borders during the 1990s. He believed Thailand’s culture of respect for older people and a more personal care environment could improve his mother’s quality of life. Woodtli moved into a house with his mother and employed three caregivers recruited through local hospitals to provide round-the-clock support. He said the new environment helped his mother become more comfortable and socially engaged, developing her own style of communication despite the progression of her illness. Within a year, Woodtli used money inherited from his father to establish Baan Kamlangchay, a dementia care home located in a residential neighbourhood outside Chiang Mai city centre. Interest in the facility grew after a Swiss documentary filmmaker recorded the story of Woodtli and his mother in 2003, leading families from Switzerland and Germany to make enquiries. Today, Woodtli and his Thai wife operate the facility, which cares for around 10 residents living with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Residents, whom Woodtli refers to as guests, live across eight separate houses integrated into a local Thai community rather than in a single institutional building. According to Thai civil registration data, Chiang Mai recorded 160,958 foreign residents in 2025, representing around 9% of the province’s approximately 1.8 million residents. The city’s international airport, lower living costs and long-stay visa options have contributed to its popularity among retirees and overseas residents. Baan Kamlangchay operates as a registered company in Thailand and provides accommodation, daily assistance and supportive care through trained caregivers. Residents access medical services through local healthcare providers when required, as there are no on-site medical staff. The cost of care starts at approximately US$2,900 per month, including accommodation, meals and 24-hour support. By comparison, nursing home care in the United States averaged about US$112,420 annually, on 2024 data, while dementia care in Swiss nursing homes was estimated at 89,756 Swiss francs per year. Caleb Johnston, an associate professor of human geography at Newcastle University in the United Kingdom, described the movement of people to Thailand for care and palliative support as a small but growing trend. He said lower costs, a large caregiving workforce and an expanding private care sector were attracting international clients, though families must also consider the impact of distance from established social networks and long-term friendships. At Baan Kamlangchay, each guest is supported by a dedicated team of three caregivers working rotating shifts, with one caregiver sleeping in the same room at night. The facility also includes shared dining areas, an activity centre with a swimming pool and a small convenience store that allows residents to interact with local villagers and maintain a sense of independence. Anke Blomberg, whose mother Gerda has lived at Baan Kamlangchay for eight years, said she chose the facility after finding care homes in Germany impersonal. After visiting Chiang Mai with her mother for a month, she decided the environment and level of care were suitable and now visits twice each year. Woodtli said many residents remain at the facility for years and stay until the end of their lives. His own mother lived at Baan Kamlangchay until her death in 2006. Picture courtesy of Businessinsider Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Businessinsider 28 June 2026Sat, 27 Jun 2026 22:18:11 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/thailand-opens-rail-network-to-private-operators-r2513/Thailand has officially opened its state-owned railway network to private operators for the first time, allowing companies to apply for track access to run passenger, tourism and freight train services. The move follows the publication of the State Railway of Thailand’s 2026 Network Statement and is intended to make use of unused track capacity while creating new transport options, strengthening logistics and generating additional revenue for the state. Get today's headlines by email The policy is being implemented under Section 70, Paragraph Two of the Rail Transport Act, B.E. 2568 (2025). It comes after years of government investment in dual-track and new railway lines that significantly expanded the national rail network. However, the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has been unable to purchase enough rolling stock to fully utilise the increased capacity, leaving many track slots unused outside peak periods. The 598-page Network Statement provides private operators with detailed technical information, infrastructure specifications, access conditions, timetable allocation procedures and routing guidelines. Under Section 73 of the Act, track-sharing agreements will not be treated as traditional Public-Private Partnerships, avoiding lengthy approval processes and instead operating under simplified contracts. Fixed Track Access Charges have also been introduced. Passenger services will pay 44 baht per carriage per kilometre, with a minimum of four carriages per train. Tourism services will pay 77 baht per carriage per kilometre, while freight operators will be charged 0.2065 baht per tonne-kilometre based on gross tonnage. An example provided by the authorities shows that a four-carriage tourist train travelling from Bangkok to Hua Hin, a distance of 229 kilometres, would pay about 70,532 baht in track access fees for a single journey. Pichet Kunadhamraks, director-general of the Department of Rail Transport, described the initiative as a major turning point for Thailand’s transport sector. He said the policy would diversify travel options, modernise the logistics industry and improve returns on public infrastructure investment. Acting SRT governor Anan Phonimdang added that increased competition should encourage investment throughout the logistics sector while lowering costs and improving service standards for passengers. The Nation reported that the policy is now entering its final regulatory stage, with the Cabinet considering appointments to a new Rail Transport Slot Allocation Committee. The independent body will oversee timetable allocation and prevent scheduling conflicts. The SRT said all access decisions will comply with Section 68 of the Rail Transport Act, ensuring neutrality, transparency and non-discrimination. The full 2026 Network Statement is now available for public download through the SRT’s official website. Picture courtesy of The Nation Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 28 June 2026Sat, 27 Jun 2026 22:07:53 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/thailand-cracks-down-on-fake-cannabis-prescriptions-r2512/Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health has launched a strict crackdown on the use of forged cannabis prescription forms after uncovering evidence of identity fraud and the online sale of fake documents used to obtain cannabis for recreational purposes. Get today's headlines by email On 27 June 2026, the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine, working with police and security agencies, announced it would pursue criminal action against individuals, cannabis retailers, healthcare facilities and medical professionals involved in forging medical certificates and controlled herbal medicine prescription forms, known as Form P.T.33 (PorThor 33 / ปท.33) The investigation found that fake P.T.33 forms were being used to sell cannabis flowers to members of the public without medical examinations or professional consultations. Officials also discovered cases where healthcare practitioners had allegedly signed blank prescription forms, allowing retailers to add details later and use them as false evidence when submitting mandatory cannabis usage reports under Form P.T.28. Dr Thewan Thanirat, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine, said the ministry had instructed enforcement officers to file criminal complaints against those responsible. Cannabis retailers producing fraudulent P.T.33 forms for commercial sales could face prosecution for document forgery, while healthcare professionals found to have participated could face disciplinary action for professional misconduct. Authorities said offenders would face prosecution under the Criminal Code, while professional licences could be suspended or revoked. Cases involving healthcare practitioners will also be referred to the relevant professional councils to consider disciplinary penalties, including suspension or permanent revocation of licences. Dr Peeracha Kookasemkit, Director of the Medical Cannabis Division, said the department is strengthening oversight by introducing digital verification and electronic databases to monitor controlled cannabis prescriptions more closely. The upgraded system will allow officials to verify document reference numbers instantly and trace prescriptions back to the issuing doctor and healthcare facility. The digital system is designed to detect irregularities such as duplicate document numbers, invalid reference codes and doctor names that do not match official records. Officials believe the enhanced checks will make it more difficult to produce or use fraudulent prescriptions. Khaosod reported that Dr Peeracha stressed that controlled cannabis must only be used under proper medical supervision for genuine treatment purposes. He urged members of the public and business operators who encounter fake medical certificates or improperly issued P.T.33 forms to report them through the Traffy Fondue application or by calling the department’s hotline on 02-257-7042, so authorities can bring offenders before the courts. Picture courtesy of Khaosod Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 28 June 2026Sat, 27 Jun 2026 21:56:23 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/udon-thani-set-to-become-regional-aviation-hub-r2511/The Transport Ministry is accelerating plans to establish Udon Thani as a regional aviation hub, with Thai Vietjet also preparing to increase its domestic flight schedule by 50 percent. The expansion forms part of a wider government strategy to strengthen economic growth, boost tourism and improve links between Thailand’s Northeast and international markets. Get today's headlines by email Deputy Transport Minister Phattrapong Phattraprasit has held discussions with Thai Vietjet executives on upgrading regional airports into full-scale aviation hubs. The meeting included deputy chief executive officer for commercial and customer relations Pinyot Pibulsonggram, deputy chief executive officer for corporate relations Sayada Benjakul, and representatives from the Department of Airports. Talks focused on improving passenger convenience and strengthening regional air connectivity. Thai Vietjet plans to increase its domestic services from 98 to 147 flights per week, covering return routes between Bangkok and key regional airports. The expanded network will include Udon Thani, Khon Kaen, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Krabi, Surat Thani and Ubon Ratchathani, with the aim of improving travel links while supporting local economies. A key objective is to develop Udon Thani into the Northeast’s international aviation gateway. Thai Vietjet is preparing direct services to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam, Taipei in Taiwan, Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia, and Tokyo and Osaka in Japan. The airline says the new routes are intended to support trade, investment and tourism with neighbouring countries. The carrier is also studying the feasibility of launching direct cross-border services on the Udon Thani-Ho Chi Minh City and Krabi-Ho Chi Minh City routes. If approved, both services are expected to begin operating in 2027. In addition, Thai Vietjet has formed a strategic partnership with EZY Airlines to connect Udon Thani with Hanoi, Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City. Those services are scheduled for launch during the fourth quarter of 2026, with the goal of expanding market share and supporting future aviation industry growth. The nation reported that Phattrapong also encouraged the airline to consider additional domestic routes linking secondary cities, including services to Ranong and Trang, as well as cross-regional flights such as Khon Kaen-Hua Hin and Chiang Mai-Hua Hin. Plans are also being developed to attract direct international flights from Malaysia, Hong Kong and Singapore to Hua Hin, improving the readiness of regional airports to welcome more overseas visitors. Picture courtesy of The Nation Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 28 June 2026Sat, 27 Jun 2026 21:48:54 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/anutin-faces-twin-constitutional-court-tests-r2510/The Anutin government is facing two major Constitutional Court cases that could have significant political and economic consequences for Thailand. One case challenges the government’s decision to use an emergency decree to borrow 400 billion baht for the energy crisis, while the other questions whether barcode and QR code technology used during the February 8 general election compromised ballot secrecy. Together, the cases test both the government’s exercise of executive power and confidence in the electoral process. Get today's headlines by email The first case focuses on the Emergency Decree authorising the Ministry of Finance to borrow up to 400 billion baht to address the impact of the energy crisis and support Thailand’s energy transition. The petition was filed by 133 members of the House of Representatives, most from the opposition, through the House Speaker. They argue the government should have pursued the borrowing through the normal parliamentary process rather than relying on emergency powers under Section 172 of the Constitution. Following its meeting on June 24, the Constitutional Court ruled that sufficient evidence had been submitted and that the case involved a question of law, bringing the inquiry to a close. The court will hold its oral statement, consultation and vote on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at 9am. The government maintains that geopolitical conflict, new forms of warfare and volatile global energy prices created an unavoidable urgent necessity, making immediate borrowing essential to strengthen energy security and invest in future infrastructure, energy storage, smart grids and clean energy systems. The court’s decision could have broad consequences. If the decree is upheld, the government will be able to continue its energy and economic programmes while reinforcing its ability to respond quickly to external shocks. If it is ruled unconstitutional, projects linked to the borrowing could be delayed or returned to Parliament, potentially weakening investor confidence and increasing political pressure on Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul. A narrower ruling could require revisions to parts of the borrowing plan while allowing other measures to proceed. The second case stems from 22 petitions submitted through the Ombudsman concerning the Election Commission’s use of barcodes and QR codes on ballot papers during the February 8, 2026 general election. Petitioners argue the technology could allow ballots to be traced to individual voters, undermining the constitutional principle of secret voting. On June 24, the Constitutional Court ordered further expert testimony and additional study before reaching a decision. The Election Commission has defended the system, stating that the codes were introduced solely to prevent counterfeit ballots, stop ballot rotation and improve the speed and accuracy of vote counting. It insists the codes are not linked to voters’ identities. The eventual ruling is expected to establish an important precedent for the future use of digital technology in Thai elections. The Nation reported that Prime Minister Anutin now faces two separate constitutional challenges that could shape his administration’s political standing. The July 9 ruling on the emergency borrowing decree will provide the first major legal test of the government’s use of executive powers, while the ballot-code case will continue to examine confidence in the election that brought the government to office. Picture courtesy of The Nation Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 28 June 2026Sat, 27 Jun 2026 21:41:32 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/migrant-falls-to-death-at-samut-prakan-hostel-r2509/A 26-year-old Myanmar man died after falling from the third floor of a hostel in Bang Phli, Samut Prakan, in the early hours of 27 June. Police believe he may have been attempting to climb across balconies to reach a woman staying in the neighbouring building, although the exact circumstances remain under investigation. Get today's headlines by email Police were called to the hostel at 1.05am on 27 June after reports that a man had fallen from height. Officers and rescue volunteers found the body of Ah Toe, 26, a Myanmar national, lying in a pool of blood on a walkway between two hostel buildings. He was wearing only grey boxer shorts, and a hanger containing women’s underwear was found near his body. A 39-year-old Thai woman, who was staying in a third-floor room, told police she heard an unusual noise coming from her rear balcony. When she went to investigate, she saw the deceased attempting to climb onto her balcony. She immediately shut the door, and moments later heard the sound of him falling to the ground. She then alerted the hostel owner and police. Investigators found that the deceased was staying in a hostel directly opposite the woman’s building, with the two balconies separated by approximately 1.5 metres. A friend of the deceased told officers that before the incident the victim had been drinking beer alone, while two other friends had already gone to bed. The friend also said the deceased had recently experienced problems with his girlfriend. NBT reported that police have questioned witnesses and are examining evidence to establish the exact cause of the incident. Their initial assessment is that the deceased may have been attempting to climb between the buildings to reach the woman, or may have had another purpose, before losing his footing and falling from the third floor. Officers said further investigation is required before any conclusions are reached. Pictures courtesy of NBT Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now NBT 28 June 2026Sat, 27 Jun 2026 21:30:32 +0000