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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Friday 15 August 2025
Fire Damages Historic Lampang Temple Pictures courtesy of Matichon. A fire broke out at the renowned Bo Haeo Temple in Lampang’s Muang district on 13 August, causing damage to valuable historical artefacts and prompting a swift response from emergency services. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1369783-fire-damages-historic-lampang-temple/ -
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Fire Fire Damages Historic Lampang Temple
Pictures courtesy of Matichon. A fire broke out at the renowned Bo Haeo Temple in Lampang’s Muang district on 13 August, causing damage to valuable historical artefacts and prompting a swift response from emergency services. Local firefighters from Bo Haeo Municipality, the Subdistrict Administrative Organisation and the Lampang Rescue Association, assisted by residents, rushed to the scene to control the blaze, which had spread to the upper ceiling of the temple. The fire was brought under control within 45 minutes. Bo Haeo Municipality Mayor Somporn Wate inspected the scene and reported that the first witnesses were mostly elderly women crafting traditional Lanna lanterns in a lower pavilion. They noticed the smell of smoke and saw smoke rising from the temple roof, prompting an immediate alert to authorities. Quick action prevented the fire from engulfing the entire building. Initial investigations suggest the fire may have started from an electrical short circuit in a ceiling-mounted fan. Burn marks were observed on the wall-mounted fan and nearby wiring, which spread to the ceiling above the principal Buddha image. Police forensic teams are carrying out a full investigation to confirm the cause. At present, the extent of the damage remains unclear, but almost the entire temple ceiling has been affected. Paintings, internal wiring and a centuries-old pulpit, over 200 years old, have suffered damage. The area has been cordoned off for safety, as falling debris from the ceiling poses a risk and structural inspections are underway. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-08-15 -
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Report North Korea Rejects South’s Account of Speaker Removal
File photo for reference only North Korea has dismissed South Korea's assertions that it removed propaganda loudspeakers along their shared border. Kim Yo Jong, the sister of North Korea's leader, dismissed the claim as a "red herring", insisting that no one ever touched the speakers. In a statement on Thursday via state media KCNA, Kim declared, “We have no will to improve relations.” This comes after South Korea’s military reported North Korea dismantled some loudspeakers, following South Korea's own removal of its speakers. The ongoing dispute over the border broadcasts is not new. South Korea often blasted K-pop across the border, while North Korean speakers emitted unsettling sounds, including animal howls. Residents living nearby complained about the commotion, which sometimes continued late into the night, reported the BBC. This dispute is not just about noise. For Pyongyang, the broadcasts from Seoul are considered acts of war, which have even led to previous threats to destroy the speakers. After a six-year hiatus, South Korea restarted their broadcasts in June 2024 under US president Yoon Suk Yeol, who pushed a hardline policy against the North. The move was in retaliation to North Korea sending rubbish-filled balloons southward, escalating tensions. However, the arrival of President Lee Jae-myung seemed to usher in a new era. Lee, promoting improved inter-Korean relations, halted the broadcasts to foster trust and aim for peace in the region. Yet, despite these efforts, underlying tensions persist. Recently, North Korea warned of a “resolute counteraction” in response to joint military exercises by South Korea and the US, hinting at ongoing unease. In a region fraught with historical and political sensitivities, loudspeaker battles reflect the deep-seated issues dividing the Korean Peninsula. Both nations are grappling with balancing propaganda warfare and diplomatic engagement, making future interactions unpredictable. As tensions continue to simmer, all eyes are focused on the unfolding of these geopolitical manoeuvres. Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-08-15 -
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Report NZ's Luxon Slams Netanyahu, Mulls Recognition of Palestine
Benjamin Netanyahu. File photo New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has lashed out at Israeli leader Benjamin Netanyahu, accusing him of having “lost the plot” amid Israel’s controversial actions in Gaza. Luxon condemned Israel’s planned occupation of Gaza City as “utterly unacceptable” at a time when international anger against Netanyahu is swelling. Luxon's sharp critique comes as part of an escalating international response, with nations questioning Israel's intensified military operations in Gaza. His government is now pondering whether to align with moves by fellow Five Eyes Alliance members like Australia, Britain, and Canada to recognise a Palestinian state. Allegations of mass starvation and tight aid restrictions in Gaza have sparked wider condemnation. Without holding back, Luxon asserted that Netanyahu is disregarding international calls for unrestricted humanitarian aid to Gaza. “He's gone too far,” Luxon stated. "What we're witnessing in Gaza City is utterly unacceptable." Netanyahu's office has yet to fire back any comments, reported CNN. Responding to on-the-ground chaos involves reports of increasing violence and acute shortages of food and essentials, with Palestinian health officials reporting 227 deaths from malnutrition, including 103 children. Meanwhile, foreign ministers worldwide express outrage, describing the crisis as a looming famine that demands swift Israeli intervention to facilitate humanitarian aid. Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese echoes these concerns, accusing Netanyahu of being “in denial” about the conflict's human toll. Australia has voiced intent to back Palestinian statehood at the UN, positioning New Zealand as the Five Eyes outlier, apart from the US, in this stance. France’s Emmanuel Macron also enters the fray, vowing to recognise a Palestinian state and calling for an urgent ceasefire alongside humanitarian relief and the demilitarisation of Hamas. The Israeli-US bloc remains staunchly against such recognitions. Back home, Luxon’s contemplation over New Zealand’s potential recognition of a Palestinian state faces backlash. Former PM Helen Clark lambasts what she deems inadequate action, branding New Zealand's stance humiliating. The political tension extends into New Zealand's parliament, where Green Party co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick faced ejection for refusing to apologise over fiery comments urging MPs to support sanctions against Israel. Her call for courage among legislators reflects growing impatience over perceived diplomatic stagnation. In a climate of heightened scrutiny, New Zealand’s decision on Palestine recognition looms large, casting a spotlight on its international standing and diplomatic alliances amid a conflict-dominated global stage. Adapted by ASEAN Now from CNN 2025-08-15 -
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Report UK’s Lammy Faces Fine After Fishing Trip With US VP
Screenshot courtesy of Sky News The unexpected fishing trip with US Vice President JD Vance has put British Foreign Minister David Lammy under scrutiny. This innocent diplomatic retreat at Chevening House could cost Lammy a hefty fine for fishing without the necessary licence—up to £2,500 (around 115,000 Thai baht). Lammy quickly admitted the mistake, informing the UK’s Environment Agency about the oversight. A Foreign Office spokesperson explained that once Lammy realised the error, he immediately purchased the required rod fishing licences. He also penned a letter to the agency apologising and expressing gratitude for their commitment to maintaining Britain's fisheries. The diplomatic gathering took place at Chevening House, Lammy's official residence in Kent. Although the event was initially focused on international relations, it became more relaxed when Vance and his family decided to extend their stay for a holiday. Vance, who had previously criticised the UK's regulatory measures, appeared to be enjoying the company of Lammy. In a press conference loaded with camaraderie, Vance joked about Lammy's lack of fishing success compared to his children, reported CNN. According to UK law, anglers aged 13 or older must possess a rod licence to freshwater fish in England and Wales. This regulation helps conserve fish populations and supports sustainable fishing practices across the country. As reported by Britain’s PA Media, the fish caught during the trip were safely returned to the lake. The scandal has gained attention due to the involvement of high-profile figures and the potential diplomatic repercussions. Yet, both parties have managed to maintain a friendly and cooperative atmosphere. Lammy’s proactive steps to resolve the issue demonstrate a commitment to following national regulations while fostering international relations. Despite the minor legal wrangle, the encounter between Lammy and Vance highlights the ongoing connection between the UK and the US. The positive engagement suggests that while fish may have escaped Lammy’s line, diplomacy remains firmly on the hook. Adapted by ASEAN Now from [source] 2025-08-15 -
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Report UK Criticised by US for Alleged Erosion of Liberties
Picture courtesy of BBC A recent US report has slammed the UK for allegedly eroding human rights over the past year. The US State Department’s annual survey, released under the Trump administration, takes aim at supposed restrictions on free speech and rising antisemitic threats in Britain. The lengthy report casts a harsh light on the UK compared to other European countries like France and Germany, highlighting a concerning trend in the age of social media. The US claims that while the UK government “generally respected” free speech, specific restrictions on what is deemed “hateful” or “offensive” political speech have raised alarms. Reacting swiftly, a UK spokesperson defended the nation’s stance, stating that free speech is integral to democracy and assuring citizens that their freedoms remain safeguarded. Speaking from the idyllic Cotswolds, US Vice President JD Vance described free speech across Europe as “in retreat”, pinpointing the UK as a nation losing grip on basic liberties. A chilling example cited in the report revolves around the UK government's response to a brutal crime in Southport, where misinformation led to anti-immigration riots. The government, under Prime Minister Keir Starmer, was accused of repressing speech regarding the identity and motives of the attacker, Axel Rudakubana. In the aftermath, existing laws were used to curb speech considered “indecent or grossly offensive”. The government responded forcefully to the riots, making nearly 2,000 arrests and filing over 1,000 charges, which fuelled accusations of its heavy-handedness. Critics argued this move stifled conservative voices, pointing to a July case where Lee Joseph Dunn was imprisoned for posting a controversial meme linking migrants to knife crime. Dunn’s conviction was not isolated. Lucy Connolly also faced severe punishment for incendiary posts calling for the mass deportation of immigrants. Her actions, labelled as inflammatory, ignited debates on balancing public safety with free speech, reported CNN. Vance criticised the UK’s approach during his discussions with UK Foreign Minister David Lammy, expressing fears of countries following what he termed a “dark path” of censorship, reflecting back on the previous US administration's struggles with free speech. In response, British critics have hit back, citing instances under the Trump administration where free speech faced challenges. The State Department’s report and Vance’s observations have ignited a heated international debate on human rights and the delicate balance between upholding freedom and ensuring public safety. Adapted by ASEAN Now from CNN 2025-08-15
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