https://aseannow.com/rss/44-thailand-news.xml/National and regional news from all around ThailandenA federal judge has blocked a $100,000 fee on new H-1B visa applications introduced by the administration of Donald Trump, ruling that the measure exceeded presidential authority and infringed on Congress's power to set taxes and immigration policy. Get today's headlines by email U.S. District Judge Leo Sorokin sided with a coalition of 20 Democratic-led states that challenged the fee, concluding that the payment functioned as a tax regardless of how it was described by the administration. “The substance and application of the $100,000 payment reveal that it is a tax, regardless of what the payment is called,” Sorokin wrote in his decision. States Challenge Visa FeeThe fee was introduced through a presidential proclamation signed by Trump in September last year. It applied to new H-1B visa applications, with the cost generally borne by sponsoring employers. Administration officials said the policy was intended to encourage companies to hire American workers rather than recruit talent from abroad. The legal challenge was led by Rob Bonta and Andrea Campbell on behalf of Democratic-controlled states. H-1B visas allow U.S. employers to hire foreign workers for specialized roles, particularly in technology and other skilled professions. Visa holders are typically admitted for up to three years but do not receive permanent resident status through the program. Judge Cites Supreme Court Tax RulingSorokin's decision drew on the Supreme Court's 2012 ruling that upheld the Affordable Care Act's individual mandate as a valid exercise of Congress's taxing authority. Referring to that case, the judge wrote that the visa payment was “not a penalty,” comparing it to the fee considered by the Supreme Court. The administration argued that the courts lacked authority to review the dispute and urged dismissal of the lawsuit, contending that Trump's action was shielded from judicial scrutiny. Administration Defends PolicyA spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security criticized the ruling, calling it “blatant judicial activism” and defending the administration's broader immigration agenda. The spokesperson said the administration's reforms were intended to prioritize American citizens, workers and families. The legal battle over the fee remains unresolved. In a separate lawsuit brought by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the Association of American Universities, another federal judge ruled that Trump acted within his authority when imposing the charge. An appeals court heard arguments in that case in March and has yet to issue a decision. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 9 June 2026 View full articleMon, 08 Jun 2026 21:43:34 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/songkhla-police-probe-babys-remains-at-temple-crematorium-r2233/Police in Songkhla are investigating after the remains of a baby were discovered inside the crematorium at Wat Thai Yo in Koh Yo subdistrict, Mueang district, Songkhla province. The discovery was made on 8 June 2026, prompting officers from Mueang Songkhla Police Station and related agencies to attend the scene and begin an inquiry. Get today's headlines by email Initial examinations found burned bones as well as parts of a heart that had reportedly been among the last parts of the body to be consumed by the fire. Authorities believe the remains belonged to a baby, although investigations are continuing to establish the circumstances surrounding the case. According to the temple undertaker, the body is believed to have been that of a baby aged approximately eight to nine months. During a search of the area outside the crematorium, officers also found a pair of trousers that had been left behind. Investigators believe the clothing may belong to the person who brought the body to the crematorium or may otherwise be connected to the incident. The trousers have been collected as evidence and will undergo forensic examination. Police are seeking to determine whether any biological or other trace evidence can help identify those involved. Picture courtesy of Koaded The undertaker told investigators that on 7 June 2026 at approximately 3.00pm, he entered the crematorium to prepare equipment for a cremation scheduled to take place the following day. At that time, four sacks of charcoal had been stored inside the crematorium for use during the planned cremation. However, when the area was checked again, three of the four sacks had already been used, leaving only one sack at the scene. This discovery raised suspicions that the crematorium had been used without authorisation before the scheduled cremation. Police are now gathering evidence and reviewing CCTV footage from nearby locations as part of their investigation. Officers are working to identify and locate the person responsible for bringing the baby’s remains to the crematorium and carrying out the cremation. Kaoded reported that the case remains under investigation, with authorities continuing forensic examinations and witness inquiries. Police have stated that efforts are focused on identifying those responsible so that legal action can be taken. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Kaoded 9 June 2026Mon, 08 Jun 2026 21:41:51 +0000Police in Songkhla are investigating after the remains of a baby were discovered inside the crematorium at Wat Thai Yo in Koh Yo subdistrict, Mueang district, Songkhla province. The discovery was made on 8 June 2026, prompting officers from Mueang Songkhla Police Station and related agencies to attend the scene and begin an inquiry. Get today's headlines by email Initial examinations found burned bones as well as parts of a heart that had reportedly been among the last parts of the body to be consumed by the fire. Authorities believe the remains belonged to a baby, although investigations are continuing to establish the circumstances surrounding the case. According to the temple undertaker, the body is believed to have been that of a baby aged approximately eight to nine months. During a search of the area outside the crematorium, officers also found a pair of trousers that had been left behind. Investigators believe the clothing may belong to the person who brought the body to the crematorium or may otherwise be connected to the incident. The trousers have been collected as evidence and will undergo forensic examination. Police are seeking to determine whether any biological or other trace evidence can help identify those involved. Picture courtesy of Koaded The undertaker told investigators that on 7 June 2026 at approximately 3.00pm, he entered the crematorium to prepare equipment for a cremation scheduled to take place the following day. At that time, four sacks of charcoal had been stored inside the crematorium for use during the planned cremation. However, when the area was checked again, three of the four sacks had already been used, leaving only one sack at the scene. This discovery raised suspicions that the crematorium had been used without authorisation before the scheduled cremation. Police are now gathering evidence and reviewing CCTV footage from nearby locations as part of their investigation. Officers are working to identify and locate the person responsible for bringing the baby’s remains to the crematorium and carrying out the cremation. Kaoded reported that the case remains under investigation, with authorities continuing forensic examinations and witness inquiries. Police have stated that efforts are focused on identifying those responsible so that legal action can be taken. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Kaoded 9 June 2026 View full articleMon, 08 Jun 2026 21:41:51 +0000The smell of weed is subjective. Some people in Pattaya like it, some do not. It's illegal to smoke in public in Pattaya unless you are smoking tobacco which is OK right...?!? Tobacco causes much more harm in Pattaya than Weed FACT. ✅ Alcohol causes much more harm in Pattaya than Weed. FACT ✅ Isn't this the topic? Pattaya being "World Class"? Why should we focus on one person's subjective feelings that the smell of weed in Pattaya is quote "disgusting" and quote "a problem" while ignoring much much much more serious problems that exists in Pattaya Amusing the topic is "world class" but the poster is focusing on his personal feelings, not what the world thinks. By the way, my feeling is that tobacco smells much more disgusting than weed and the people that use tobacco in public (even when legally permitted) are not very bright to have gotten addicted to nicotine ignoring warning ⚠️ and cautions from doctors and scientists, even ignoring the warning printed on the label for decades, they seem overconfident in their own feelings, let's say. Just like we see in Pattaya, or any day here on TV/ANMon, 08 Jun 2026 21:41:27 +0000A woman who says she was abused and trafficked by convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein has told a U.S. congressional committee that she attended events at royal residences, including a dinner in Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s private apartments at Buckingham Palace. Get today's headlines by email Sarah Kellen gave the evidence to the House Oversight Committee as part of its investigation into Epstein, who died in a New York prison in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. Testimony to Congressional InvestigationTranscripts of Kellen’s testimony, released recently, show she described encounters with several prominent figures connected to Epstein during the years she worked for him. She told lawmakers she had been “sexually and psychologically abused” by Epstein for more than a decade. Claims Involving Royal ResidencesDuring her testimony, Kellen said she attended a dinner in Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s private apartments at Buckingham Palace and was also present at Princess Beatrice’s 18th birthday celebration at Windsor Castle in 2006. The testimony marks the first known public account from a woman abused and trafficked by Epstein describing her attendance at royal residences. Kellen was asked whether she had witnessed any inappropriate behaviour by several individuals, including Mountbatten-Windsor. She told the committee she had not. Mountbatten-Windsor, the former Prince Andrew, has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing linked to his friendship with Epstein. He lost his royal titles following allegations connected to that relationship. The BBC said Buckingham Palace referred it to a statement issued last October on behalf of the King and Queen. The statement said their thoughts and sympathies remained with victims and survivors of all forms of abuse. Allegations Against Epstein and MaxwellKellen confirmed she had received compensation from Epstein’s estate through a victims’ fund established to provide financial relief to survivors who could support their claims with evidence. She also told lawmakers she was sexually abused by Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein’s longtime associate, who is serving a 20-year prison sentence for sex trafficking. Kellen was highly critical of Maxwell, telling the committee she believed Maxwell played a significant role in shaping Epstein’s lifestyle and use of wealth. The witness also said she was abused by three other associates of Epstein. Questions Over Past ActivitiesKellen told the committee that she may have organised meetings for Sarah Ferguson at Epstein’s office and residence in Palm Beach, Florida, while Epstein was on work release in 2008. At the time, Epstein was serving a sentence for soliciting sex from a minor and was permitted to leave prison during the day for work. Previously described as an assistant to Epstein, Kellen was identified as a possible co-conspirator during an earlier plea agreement involving the financier. She told lawmakers she only became aware of that designation after it became public and said no law enforcement agency had sought her account at the time. The BBC reported that it had approached representatives for Mountbatten-Windsor, Princess Beatrice and Maxwell’s legal team for comment. A spokesperson for Sarah Ferguson declined to comment. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 9 June 2026 View full articleMon, 08 Jun 2026 21:36:25 +0000Fun Fact. the British Royal Family is English, Scottish, Irish, German, Greek, Danish, French, Dutch, Russian, Belgian, Spanish, Norwegian, Portuguese, Swedish, Romanian, Italian and Austrian. Fun fact; most English people are not 100% English (effectively 0%). Neither are most Scottish people 100% Scottish (also 0%). Ditto the Irish and Welsh. Ask Tommy Robinson which passport he takes on holiday. Nigel Farage's paternal line is Franco-German, having descended from French refugees from the 1700s, and Germans who arrived off the boat in the 1860s. But Nigel has a British Passport. He's not German nor French. Similarly, the Royal Family have British passports (except the King, he doesn't have a passport), not German passports. They are not German, anymore than Boris Johnson is a Muslim Turk.Mon, 08 Jun 2026 21:34:36 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/chinese-backed-vape-factory-probe-expands-in-chonburi-r2232/Authorities are intensifying efforts to identify the Chinese investors believed to be behind an illegal e-cigarette manufacturing facility uncovered in Nong Pla Lai, Bang Lamung district, Chonburi, after a raid on 8 June 2026. Get today's headlines by email Officers from Bang Lamung Police Station, local administrative authorities and the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) searched a warehouse at 67/24 Moo 2, Nong Pla Lai, where they dismantled a factory producing a well-known e-cigarette brand. Large quantities of finished products and manufacturing components were seized. Most workers escaped before officers entered, with only a Thai delivery driver arrested while allegedly transporting e-cigarettes to customers in Bangkok. Later that day, Pol Maj Gen Phongphan Wongmonithet, commander of Chonburi Provincial Police, inspected the site alongside officials from the Customs Department and Excise Department. Authorities began separating and counting seized items, which included both ready-for-sale products and components still undergoing assembly. Initial findings suggest production began with charging device batteries before filling units with various flavoured liquids. The products were then vacuum-sealed in packaging and packed into cardboard boxes for distribution. Officials said a final inventory has not yet been completed due to the large volume of equipment, components and materials found at the site. Police and local officials also searched nearby areas after learning that migrant workers had fled through the rear of the building. Two Myanmar nationals were later stopped about 500 metres from the factory. After initially providing inconsistent accounts, both admitted working at the facility for a monthly wage of 13,000 baht. They said their role was limited to moving cartons and that they had never worked in the production section. Both identified a Chinese national as the factory supervisor. Investigators also discovered that seized packaging carried the label “Made in China” despite the products being manufactured in Thailand. The factory was operating in Pattaya’s Bang Lamung district, within Moo 2 of Nong Pla Lai, an area designated under a sustainable community project aimed at addressing drug-related problems. Pictures courtesy of SiamChon Meanwhile, forensic officers from Forensic Science Centre 2, led by Pol Lt Col Thatchakorn Chaisit, collected fingerprints, DNA samples, production records, manufacturing equipment and other evidence for forensic examination. The investigation is focused on identifying those responsible for directing the operation and tracing links to the financiers behind the network. Officials are expected to provide further details on 9 June 2026, when the Justice Minister, the Deputy National Police Chief and the Chonburi Governor are scheduled to jointly announce the results of the operation at an official press briefing. AQMTIpMzL0eTL1HVXvXZOOhsIuCZJirBVFBITIc6v3jIBHggG1warFuI8iZZ8jnQEkNndGas61waSEEeqyQc25o79brzjN9SHzrGOs1eDw.mp4 Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now SiamChon 9 June 2026Mon, 08 Jun 2026 21:34:25 +0000Authorities are intensifying efforts to identify the Chinese investors believed to be behind an illegal e-cigarette manufacturing facility uncovered in Nong Pla Lai, Bang Lamung district, Chonburi, after a raid on 8 June 2026. Get today's headlines by email Officers from Bang Lamung Police Station, local administrative authorities and the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) searched a warehouse at 67/24 Moo 2, Nong Pla Lai, where they dismantled a factory producing a well-known e-cigarette brand. Large quantities of finished products and manufacturing components were seized. Most workers escaped before officers entered, with only a Thai delivery driver arrested while allegedly transporting e-cigarettes to customers in Bangkok. Later that day, Pol Maj Gen Phongphan Wongmonithet, commander of Chonburi Provincial Police, inspected the site alongside officials from the Customs Department and Excise Department. Authorities began separating and counting seized items, which included both ready-for-sale products and components still undergoing assembly. Initial findings suggest production began with charging device batteries before filling units with various flavoured liquids. The products were then vacuum-sealed in packaging and packed into cardboard boxes for distribution. Officials said a final inventory has not yet been completed due to the large volume of equipment, components and materials found at the site. Police and local officials also searched nearby areas after learning that migrant workers had fled through the rear of the building. Two Myanmar nationals were later stopped about 500 metres from the factory. After initially providing inconsistent accounts, both admitted working at the facility for a monthly wage of 13,000 baht. They said their role was limited to moving cartons and that they had never worked in the production section. Both identified a Chinese national as the factory supervisor. Investigators also discovered that seized packaging carried the label “Made in China” despite the products being manufactured in Thailand. The factory was operating in Pattaya’s Bang Lamung district, within Moo 2 of Nong Pla Lai, an area designated under a sustainable community project aimed at addressing drug-related problems. Pictures courtesy of SiamChon Meanwhile, forensic officers from Forensic Science Centre 2, led by Pol Lt Col Thatchakorn Chaisit, collected fingerprints, DNA samples, production records, manufacturing equipment and other evidence for forensic examination. The investigation is focused on identifying those responsible for directing the operation and tracing links to the financiers behind the network. Officials are expected to provide further details on 9 June 2026, when the Justice Minister, the Deputy National Police Chief and the Chonburi Governor are scheduled to jointly announce the results of the operation at an official press briefing. AQMTIpMzL0eTL1HVXvXZOOhsIuCZJirBVFBITIc6v3jIBHggG1warFuI8iZZ8jnQEkNndGas61waSEEeqyQc25o79brzjN9SHzrGOs1eDw.mp4 Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now SiamChon 9 June 2026 View full articleMon, 08 Jun 2026 21:34:25 +0000Would be great to have a black James Bond, mix it up for once and really set the cat amongst the pigeons.........Mon, 08 Jun 2026 21:33:06 +0000Must be nice to be able to name all the non Thai companies.Mon, 08 Jun 2026 21:29:23 +0000I'm pleased to see your post featuring compelling statistics that compare political topics with non-political ones.Mon, 08 Jun 2026 21:29:21 +0000Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has secured a significant election victory, with his centrist Civil Contract Party winning 49.8% of the vote in a contest widely viewed as a referendum on the country's future direction. Get today's headlines by email The Strong Armenia Alliance finished second with 23.2%, while the Armenia Alliance took third place with 9.9%. Early results prompted Pashinyan to declare victory on Monday, saying voters had chosen “peace, regional prosperity and cooperation”. Pro-West Course Backed by VotersThe election was the first since Armenia's 2023 military defeat to Azerbaijan, a conflict that reshaped the country's political landscape and intensified debate over its foreign policy orientation. Russia-West Rivalry Shapes CampaignThe vote unfolded against a backdrop of growing tensions between Armenia and Russia, its traditional ally and largest trading partner. Pashinyan has sought closer ties with the West, including passing legislation to begin the process of joining the European Union and advancing a US-backed peace agreement with Azerbaijan. Earlier this year, he also hosted a summit attended by EU leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Yerevan. European leaders welcomed the election outcome, with France and the EU congratulating Pashinyan and praising Armenia's growing engagement with Western partners. Moscow, however, criticised the process. Russian foreign ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said opposition parties had faced “unprecedented pressure” and alleged Western interference. She also described Armenian society as deeply divided. Economic Pressure and Domestic ChallengesThe result came despite a decline in Pashinyan's popularity since his party won 54% of the vote in 2021. Recent polls had placed his support at around 30%. Russia has warned Armenia about the economic consequences of moving closer to Europe. In recent months, President Vladimir Putin urged Armenia to decide between pursuing EU integration and remaining in the Russian-led Eurasian Economic Union. Moscow has also highlighted Armenia's dependence on discounted Russian gas and, in the weeks before the election, imposed restrictions on several Armenian exports, including flowers, mineral water, brandy, fruit and vegetables. Despite advocating stronger ties with Europe, Pashinyan has maintained that Armenia will remain a member of the EAEU while continuing its rapprochement with the West. Nagorno-Karabakh Remains DivisiveMuch of the opposition to Pashinyan stems from the fate of Nagorno-Karabakh, where around 100,000 ethnic Armenians fled after Azerbaijan regained control of the territory in 2023. Critics accuse the prime minister of making excessive concessions in pursuit of peace, while supporters argue that reconciliation is necessary for stability. Public opinion remains split over the peace process with Azerbaijan. In Yerevan, reactions to the result were mixed. Some voters praised Pashinyan's efforts to improve social services and pursue peace, while others questioned whether EU membership is realistic and expressed concern about the displacement of Armenians from Nagorno-Karabakh. Fragmented OppositionNineteen parties and alliances contested the election, though only a handful secured enough votes to enter parliament. Turnout reached 59%, according to election officials. Among the leading opposition groups were the pro-Russian Strong Armenia Alliance, led by businessman Samvel Karapetyan, and the Armenia Alliance, headed by former president Robert Kocharyan. The conservative Prosperous Armenia party, led by Gagik Tsarukyan, finished fourth with 4% of the vote. The result strengthens Pashinyan's mandate to continue balancing relations between Russia and the West while pursuing a contentious peace agenda at home. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 9 June 2026 View full articleMon, 08 Jun 2026 21:26:43 +0000Not sure about 'posh'........Just overemphasises the lisp....!Mon, 08 Jun 2026 21:26:34 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/thailand-consumers-council-sues-tech-giants-banks-r2231/The Thailand Consumers Council has filed a landmark civil lawsuit against the parent companies behind Meta, LINE, Apple and Google, along with nine banks and financial institutions, seeking more than 230 million baht in compensation for victims of online investment scams. Get today's headlines by email The case was submitted to the Civil Court on Ratchadaphisek Road on June 8, 2026, by the Thailand Consumers Council, lawyers and representatives of affected consumers. The first group of claimants consists of 10 consumers who allegedly lost more than 230 million baht after being targeted by online investment fraud networks. The court has scheduled the first case management hearing for August 3, 2026. The lawsuit is being described as the first case in Thailand to pursue liability against overseas parent companies that own and control major global digital platforms. The council said the action aims to establish a new benchmark for consumer protection and compel major platforms to improve safety standards for Thai users. The defendants are divided into two groups. The first group includes the parent companies and related entities behind Facebook, LINE, the App Store and Google Play, which are accused of violating consumer rights. The council argues that these foreign parent companies should be held accountable because they control advertising policies, platform systems and safety measures. The second group consists of nine commercial banks and financial institutions linked to the movement of funds from victims. These include banks from which victims transferred money and banks that allegedly received funds through mule accounts registered under juristic persons or front companies. The lawsuit alleges that the banks failed to detect unusual transaction patterns or suspend suspicious transfers despite legal obligations to monitor financial risks. According to lawyers involved in the case, fraudsters exploited multiple digital systems in what the council described as a full-cycle scam operation. Scam advertisements on Facebook allegedly used the names and images of well-known individuals to gain credibility before directing victims into LINE groups. Victims were then encouraged to download fraudulent investment applications through the App Store or Google Play, before transferring money into mule accounts through the banking system. The council argues that the platforms had both a duty to verify advertisers and users and a duty of care to ensure digital safety, but failed to prevent repeated abuse of their systems by scammers. Saree Ongsomwang, secretary-general of the Office of the Thailand Consumers Council, said global platforms should be held to both a duty to verify and a duty of care. She said the council had chosen to sue the parent companies because they establish platform policies and receive advertising revenue from systems allegedly used by fraudsters. Saree compared the situation to a large shopping mall allowing fraudsters to operate within its premises without accepting responsibility for resulting losses. Among the first group of 10 victims, one individual allegedly lost 165 million baht in a stock investment scam, while another victim from Nong Bua Lamphu reportedly lost more than 3 million baht. The council said many victims had lost confidence in state agencies, claiming official processes had failed to provide effective remedies or meaningful compensation. The Nation reported that The Civil Court will consider the case at its first scheduled hearing on August 3, 2026. The Thailand Consumers Council said it hopes the lawsuit will become a turning point in encouraging digital platform operators to strengthen safety standards and share responsibility for losses suffered by Thai consumers. Picture courtesy of The Nation Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 9 June 2026Mon, 08 Jun 2026 21:25:46 +0000The Thailand Consumers Council has filed a landmark civil lawsuit against the parent companies behind Meta, LINE, Apple and Google, along with nine banks and financial institutions, seeking more than 230 million baht in compensation for victims of online investment scams. Get today's headlines by email The case was submitted to the Civil Court on Ratchadaphisek Road on June 8, 2026, by the Thailand Consumers Council, lawyers and representatives of affected consumers. The first group of claimants consists of 10 consumers who allegedly lost more than 230 million baht after being targeted by online investment fraud networks. The court has scheduled the first case management hearing for August 3, 2026. The lawsuit is being described as the first case in Thailand to pursue liability against overseas parent companies that own and control major global digital platforms. The council said the action aims to establish a new benchmark for consumer protection and compel major platforms to improve safety standards for Thai users. The defendants are divided into two groups. The first group includes the parent companies and related entities behind Facebook, LINE, the App Store and Google Play, which are accused of violating consumer rights. The council argues that these foreign parent companies should be held accountable because they control advertising policies, platform systems and safety measures. The second group consists of nine commercial banks and financial institutions linked to the movement of funds from victims. These include banks from which victims transferred money and banks that allegedly received funds through mule accounts registered under juristic persons or front companies. The lawsuit alleges that the banks failed to detect unusual transaction patterns or suspend suspicious transfers despite legal obligations to monitor financial risks. According to lawyers involved in the case, fraudsters exploited multiple digital systems in what the council described as a full-cycle scam operation. Scam advertisements on Facebook allegedly used the names and images of well-known individuals to gain credibility before directing victims into LINE groups. Victims were then encouraged to download fraudulent investment applications through the App Store or Google Play, before transferring money into mule accounts through the banking system. The council argues that the platforms had both a duty to verify advertisers and users and a duty of care to ensure digital safety, but failed to prevent repeated abuse of their systems by scammers. Saree Ongsomwang, secretary-general of the Office of the Thailand Consumers Council, said global platforms should be held to both a duty to verify and a duty of care. She said the council had chosen to sue the parent companies because they establish platform policies and receive advertising revenue from systems allegedly used by fraudsters. Saree compared the situation to a large shopping mall allowing fraudsters to operate within its premises without accepting responsibility for resulting losses. Among the first group of 10 victims, one individual allegedly lost 165 million baht in a stock investment scam, while another victim from Nong Bua Lamphu reportedly lost more than 3 million baht. The council said many victims had lost confidence in state agencies, claiming official processes had failed to provide effective remedies or meaningful compensation. The Nation reported that The Civil Court will consider the case at its first scheduled hearing on August 3, 2026. The Thailand Consumers Council said it hopes the lawsuit will become a turning point in encouraging digital platform operators to strengthen safety standards and share responsibility for losses suffered by Thai consumers. Picture courtesy of The Nation Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 9 June 2026 View full articleMon, 08 Jun 2026 21:25:46 +0000I'm proud of New York; this is what we call progress. New York bill would replace 'mother' and 'father' with gender-neutral terms in family law The bill would replace the gendered terminology with "gestating parent" and "non-gestating parent" to acknowledge diverse family situations. https://www.snopes.com/fact-check/new-york-mother-father-gestating/ The bill, which awaits Gov. Kathy Hochul's signature, would replace traditional legal terms such as "mother," "father" and "paternity" with gender-neutral language — "gestating parent," "non-gestating parent" and "parentage" — in state family law. The proposed changes aim to align with existing family court practices that recognize non-biological parents and diverse family situations. Contrary to some versions of the claim, the bill does not outlaw or ban the terms "mother" and "father." It simply broadens the legal definition of "parent" to those who lack a biological bond with their child.Mon, 08 Jun 2026 21:19:07 +0000Sir Idris Elba has said the James Bond franchise should remain true to its roots and warned against attempts to make the character “woke”. Get today's headlines by email The British actor, who was long linked with the role of 007 amid widespread speculation, told GQ that he was honoured to be considered but never viewed himself as a serious contender for the part. Elba Reflects on Bond SpeculationElba said Bond was created in a specific way and that there was a reason the character had been written as he was. While he appreciated being associated with the iconic spy, he suggested that not all audiences around the world would embrace a Black actor taking on the role. “Bond is big all over the world,” he said, adding that some markets would not support a Black or African actor portraying the character because of cultural preferences. Warning Against ChangeThe actor argued that the appeal of James Bond lies in its escapist nature and said efforts to reshape the character to reflect changing social expectations could undermine that purpose. According to Elba, introducing a limited degree of realism can be beneficial, but the franchise should avoid trying to satisfy every audience preference or social trend. Instead, he said, Bond should remain focused on providing entertainment and escapism. His comments come after years of discussion about the future direction of the franchise and whether the role should be opened to actors from more diverse backgrounds. New Role Sparks Different DebateElba also spoke about his latest role as Man-at-Arms in the upcoming film Masters of the Universe. The character, originally from the 1980s animated series, is known for his distinctive ginger moustache and appearance, leading Elba to joke about how different the role looks from him. He said he initially thought about the contrast but quickly dismissed any concerns, arguing that a fictional character such as Man-at-Arms could be portrayed by anyone regardless of race. Referring to the character’s fantasy appearance, he joked that the debate seemed unnecessary given that the character also has green legs. Search for the Next 007 ContinuesInterest in Bond casting remains high as producers continue the search for a successor to Daniel Craig, who made his final appearance as the spy in No Time To Die five years ago. The casting process officially entered a new phase last month. According to Variety, auditions have been taking place in recent weeks as work progresses on the next instalment of the franchise. Amazon, which now oversees the series, has declined to discuss specific details of the search but said it looks forward to sharing updates with fans when appropriate. The next Bond film will be directed by Denis Villeneuve, known for the Dune films, while Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight has been announced as the screenwriter. Variety also reported that casting director Nina Gold, whose credits include major film franchises such as Paddington, Star Wars, Jurassic Park and Mamma Mia!, is leading the search for the new 007. Actors frequently linked to the role include Callum Turner, Henry Cavill and Aaron Taylor-Johnson. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 9 June 2026 View full articleMon, 08 Jun 2026 21:16:28 +0000Black people can’t be racist https://www.pambazuka.org/black-people-can%E2%80%99t-be-racist On discrimination based on one’s colour, I can only concur that blacks can be prejudicial towards whites - but not racist. What do I mean? Before I attempt to give an explanation of my argument, I first have to define words that serve as the premises: prejudice and racism. Prejudice refers to a positive or negative evaluation of another person based on their perceived group membership. Racism on the other hand refers to social actions, practices or beliefs or political systems that consider different races to be ranked as inherently superior or inferior to each other. Furthermore, racism is socio-economic, with systemic structures which promote one race’s powers over another. Socio-economic being the operative word, I am certain you will agree that black people do not have the resources to impose such oppressive structures which enforce their superiority. White people on the other hand have, and had imposed them on blacks for over four centuries of slavery and colonialism. Black people can be prejudiced, but not racist.Mon, 08 Jun 2026 21:14:39 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/thai-woman-seeks-dog-attack-compensation-on-phangan-r2230/A Thai woman is seeking compensation after claiming she and her child were attacked by dogs reportedly owned by a foreign woman on a beach in Koh Pha Ngan, Surat Thani. Get today's headlines by email The woman appealed for help in a local Facebook group, asking members to identify the foreigner. She shared photographs of a woman with several dogs on the beach and said she wanted to contact her following the alleged attack. The incident prompted mixed reactions online. Some social media users suggested the animals involved appeared to be stray dogs and questioned whether they were actually owned by the foreign woman. Others, including people who said they lived in the area, claimed the dogs belonged to the foreigner and her friend. They said they had regularly seen the pair walking the animals along the beach and alleged the dogs had been involved in previous incidents. The Thai woman later issued a statement clarifying her account of events. She said she and her child had been walking on the beach as usual and had not interacted with the dogs before the attack. She added that both suffered injuries. According to the woman, the foreigner paid approximately 17,000 baht in medical expenses. She said she was grateful for the payment but stressed that the impact extended beyond treatment costs. The woman stated that the foreigner had directed them to a clinic rather than a hospital and only provided a Line contact. She alleged that the foreigner promised to provide food and support during recovery but could not be contacted afterwards. She also said she did not know the woman’s real name or where she was staying. The injured woman explained that she had been forced to miss several days of work, while her child was unable to attend school. She said the incident had affected their physical and mental wellbeing as well as her ability to earn an income as a single parent. A Facebook account believed to belong to the foreign woman later shared a clinic receipt showing payment of 17,000 baht for the injured woman’s medical treatment following the incident. Another person claiming to have been injured by the same dogs alleged that the foreigner had promised ongoing assistance but ceased communication after covering the initial medical costs. The Thai woman maintained that the dogs belonged to the foreigner, citing a resort owner who reportedly confirmed that the woman frequently walked the animals on the beach and had previously experienced problems involving the dogs. As of now, there has been no confirmation that the case has been reported to police. The identity of the alleged dog owner and responsibility for the attack remain unverified. Pictures courtesy of เกาะพะงัน - Koh Phangan Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now เกาะพะงัน - Koh Phangan 9 June 2026Mon, 08 Jun 2026 21:11:57 +0000A Thai woman is seeking compensation after claiming she and her child were attacked by dogs reportedly owned by a foreign woman on a beach in Koh Pha Ngan, Surat Thani. Get today's headlines by email The woman appealed for help in a local Facebook group, asking members to identify the foreigner. She shared photographs of a woman with several dogs on the beach and said she wanted to contact her following the alleged attack. The incident prompted mixed reactions online. Some social media users suggested the animals involved appeared to be stray dogs and questioned whether they were actually owned by the foreign woman. Others, including people who said they lived in the area, claimed the dogs belonged to the foreigner and her friend. They said they had regularly seen the pair walking the animals along the beach and alleged the dogs had been involved in previous incidents. The Thai woman later issued a statement clarifying her account of events. She said she and her child had been walking on the beach as usual and had not interacted with the dogs before the attack. She added that both suffered injuries. According to the woman, the foreigner paid approximately 17,000 baht in medical expenses. She said she was grateful for the payment but stressed that the impact extended beyond treatment costs. The woman stated that the foreigner had directed them to a clinic rather than a hospital and only provided a Line contact. She alleged that the foreigner promised to provide food and support during recovery but could not be contacted afterwards. She also said she did not know the woman’s real name or where she was staying. The injured woman explained that she had been forced to miss several days of work, while her child was unable to attend school. She said the incident had affected their physical and mental wellbeing as well as her ability to earn an income as a single parent. A Facebook account believed to belong to the foreign woman later shared a clinic receipt showing payment of 17,000 baht for the injured woman’s medical treatment following the incident. Another person claiming to have been injured by the same dogs alleged that the foreigner had promised ongoing assistance but ceased communication after covering the initial medical costs. The Thai woman maintained that the dogs belonged to the foreigner, citing a resort owner who reportedly confirmed that the woman frequently walked the animals on the beach and had previously experienced problems involving the dogs. As of now, there has been no confirmation that the case has been reported to police. The identity of the alleged dog owner and responsibility for the attack remain unverified. Pictures courtesy of เกาะพะงัน - Koh Phangan Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now เกาะพะงัน - Koh Phangan 9 June 2026 View full articleMon, 08 Jun 2026 21:11:57 +0000Israel and Iran have stepped back from renewed fighting after both sides signalled a pause in attacks following a call from U.S. President Donald Trump for them to “immediately stop shooting.” Get today's headlines by email In a televised address, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Iranian attacks had ceased after Israel struck targets linked to Tehran’s leadership. He warned that any future attack by Iran would be met with a forceful response. Fragile Halt to HostilitiesThe exchange of Iranian ballistic missile launches and Israeli air strikes marked the most direct confrontation between the two countries since a ceasefire reached in April. While the latest pause has reduced immediate fears of a wider regional conflict, analysts have warned that the situation remains highly unstable. Lebanon Remains a FlashpointDespite the halt in direct exchanges between Israel and Iran, tensions linked to Lebanon continue to threaten the truce. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said military operations against Hezbollah would continue and warned that attacks from Lebanon would trigger strikes on Beirut. Israel has rejected Iranian efforts to link a broader ceasefire to an end of Israeli operations against the Iran-backed militant group. Iranian parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf also adopted a defiant tone, saying Tehran would continue responding to what it described as repeated violations. Reports on Monday indicated fresh rocket launches by Hezbollah into northern Israel, while Israel was said to have carried out a strike near Tyre in southern Lebanon. Military Strikes and Diplomatic PressureIsrael said it had targeted an Iranian petrochemical facility and dismantled air-defence systems in several parts of Iran. Iranian state media reported explosions in cities including Isfahan, Karaj, Tabriz and Tehran. Iran’s military said it had delivered a “painful response” to Israeli attacks in Lebanon. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said it had targeted two Israeli military bases. Damage was reported to homes in a settlement in the West Bank after missile debris fell in the area, though no injuries were recorded. Trump has been pressing Israel to limit military action in Lebanon as part of efforts to secure a broader agreement to end the conflict. On Monday, he said Israel and Iran both wanted an immediate ceasefire and that negotiations aimed at achieving peace were continuing. Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said contacts with Washington were continuing but were taking place in an atmosphere of deep mistrust. He accused Israel of attempting to undermine diplomatic efforts. Economic Concerns and Regional RisksThe latest escalation unsettled global markets, pushing oil prices about 5% higher before easing as signs emerged that both sides were stepping back from further attacks. The conflict also risks widening through Iran’s regional allies. Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi movement said it would seek to block Israeli-linked shipping in the Red Sea and confirmed it had launched missiles at Israel in recent days. Iran continues to seek concessions in negotiations, including a ceasefire in Lebanon, an Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory, partial access to frozen overseas assets and greater influence over the strategically important Strait of Hormuz. Tehran also wants to delay detailed discussions about its nuclear programme. Meanwhile, Netanyahu faces domestic pressure ahead of elections later this year, while Iranian negotiators are confronting criticism from hardliners who oppose continued talks with the United States. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 9 June 2026 View full articleMon, 08 Jun 2026 21:07:04 +0000DelinquentMon, 08 Jun 2026 21:06:20 +0000Typo, rather than a howler. And now you are blocked, so I don't need to cross you again. Maybe the Mods would consider the posting edit rules.Mon, 08 Jun 2026 21:05:42 +0000Off topic troll posts removed @SiSePuede419 discuss the topic not other posters.Mon, 08 Jun 2026 21:03:22 +0000Except this isn't pronunciation, it's scrambling the letters in the word. A Brit friend of mine used the 'shedule' pronunciation on me so I asked him which 'shool' taught him how to speak that way. He was not impressed. Also dropping the 'g' in 'length' in the belief that it makes them sound posh, when their working class roots shine like a beacon. I expect this thread will be locked soon by a British mod.Mon, 08 Jun 2026 21:01:57 +0000