Thailand Live Monday 4 Jun 2012

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Thailand Live Monday 4 June 2012

News, Bits and Tweets

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Keep up to date with live updates from the news, hour by hour.

For breaking news, national, regional and international news updates on a daily basis only, this thread is closed to commentary so that those who wish to follow the news can find it here...

Commentary is still open for Thailand news in the relevant thread posted in News Clippings.

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Related topic: Thailand Live Sunday 3 Jun 2012

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Questions over Nasa request to use U-Tapao

The Nation, Agencies

BANGKOK: -- The highly sensitive issue of how Nasa will utilise U-Tapao Airport in Rayong will likely be a topic during the scheduled discussion between a US high-ranking official and Supreme Commander General Thanasak Patimapakorn.

Full story:

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Court clarifies its stand on charter amendment

The Nation

Constitution Court President Wasan Soypisudh

Constitution Court obliged to review process: president; Chaturon urges House to defy court order, 'silent coup'

BANGKOK: - It is not the intent of the Constitution Court to block charter change, but the court is obliged to check on the constitutionality of the legislative process by which the amendments are made, high court president Wasan Soypisudh said yesterday.

Full story:

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Police combine plans for yellow-shirt rally

The Nation

BANGKOK: -- The Royal Thai Police will adjust its operational plans to handle the People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD)'s - yellow shirts' - expected rally on Wednesday against the government's reconciliation bills.

Full story:

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Govt to call for a pause in debate on unity bills

The Nation

Two month recess after the House session tomorrow aims to calm political tension

BANGKOK: -- The government is poised to issue a royal decree calling for a House recess in order to cool down the political heat generated by the reconciliation draft, PM's Office Minister Woravat Auapinyakul said yesterday.

Full story:

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Knowing their strengths is key to student success, says teacher

Wannapa Khaopa

The Nation

BANGKOK: -- In many schools, it's normal for teachers to devote the greater part of their attention to students who demonstrate academic excellence.

Full story:

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PM asks Surapong to mend ties with Nay Pyi Taw

The Nation, Agencies

BANGKOK: -- Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra conceded yesterday she was concerned about the state of Thai-Myanmar ties in the face of President Thein Sein's decision to push back his state visit due to "unfavourable conditions".

Full story:

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His Majesty names IVF fawn 'Rohisrat'

The Nation

BANGKOK: -- His Majesty the King has graciously bestowed on the world's first browantlered deer produced via invitro fertilisation the name "Rohisrat", meaning "Crystal Eld's Deer".

"We have asked His Majesty to name this Eld's deer, the first of its species to have been born from IVF," General Pattarin Leelayuth, acting director of the Zoological Park Organisation of Thailand, said yesterday.

The ZPO, Chulalongkorn and Kasetsart universities, and the US' Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute jointly conducted the IVF procedures for Eld's deer in captivity.

The Eld's deer is one of Thailand's 15 protected wildlife species. During the past 50 years, they have disappeared from the wild.

"There are just about 70 Eld's deers in zoos and facilities of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation," Pattarin said.

Because the natural reproduction rate of Eld's deer is low, researchers have tried to assist with the IVF method.

"Our first attempt to implant embryos in surrogate Eld'sdeer mothers was on March 31, 2010. However, the embryos died during pregnancy soon afterwards," he said.

Success came with the second attempt in February last year. Of eight surrogate mothers, one gave birth to Rohisrat on October 17 at the Khao Kheow Open Zoo.

"Now, the fawn is about seven months old. It's going to be a focus for further research on IVF Elds'deer reproduction," he said.

-- The Nation 2012-06-04

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REGIONAL PERSPECTIVE

Oops! Yingluck, Suu Kyi, WEF et al

Kavi Chongkittavorn

Thailand hosted the World Economic Forum for East Asia with all the smiles and pretty faces last week.

Full story:

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EDITORIAL

Trafficking and abuse of workers must be stopped

The Nation

Brokers and employers who prey on migrants should face tough action

BANGKOK: -- The issue of Burmese migrant workers is back on the table once again following Aung San Suu Kyi's recent visit to Bangkok. In a meeting with Deputy Prime Minister Chalerm Yoobamrung, she asked him to help Burmese workers. Chalerm promised to extend the Bt300 minimum daily wage to the Burmese workers also.

Full story: http://www.thaivisa....thai-editorial/

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Deferral of debate wins wide support

The Nation

BANGKOK: -- A majority of Thais agree with moves to defer House deliberation on the reconciliation bills to cool political tension and avoid the risk of confrontation, according to Abac and Dusit polls released yesterday.

Full story:

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Chronic diseases kill 75 per cent of Thais

The Nation

BANGKOK: -- Public Health Minister Witthaya Buranasiri yesterday urged an international effort, including among the 10 Asean countries, to implement measures to curb noncommunicable chronic diseases - such as coronary vascular disease, cancer and diabetes.

Full story:

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Demolition of Thai hotel is karma, says father

By Nicholas Jones

CHIANG MAI: - The father of a New Zealand woman who died suddenly after staying at a Thai hotel says its demolition is "karma".

Full story:

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RT @RichardBarrow: Today it’s prohibited to sell alcohol in Thailand. Violators face up to 6 months in prison & a fine of up to 10,000 Baht

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RT @RichardBarrow: US Embassy Bangkok closed today (Visakha Day) but British Embassy closed today & tomorrow (Diamond Jubilee)

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RT @RichardBarrow: Free Entry to Ancient Siam in Samut Prakan today. Normal price is 500 Baht http://bit.ly/LbnZBg

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Special Report: Thailand’s Grand Vesak Celebrations on the Occasion of Buddhajayanti, 2,600 Years of Buddha’s Enlightenment

On the full moon day of the sixth lunar month, Buddhists in Thailand celebrate the enlightenment of Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. It is this very same day that two other most important events in Buddhism are believed to have occurred—the birth of Buddha, 45 years before his enlightenment, and his passing away 35 years later. As the center of the world Buddhism, Thailand has arranged special activities to celebrate the Day of Vesak this year as it marks 2,600 years of the Enlightenment of Buddha. The Sangha Supreme Council of Thailand has named this auspicious occasion “Buddhajayanti,” which means the celebration of Buddha’s victory over all sins and temptations by himself.

Buddha attained enlightenment by discovering the Four Noble Truths about suffering, the origin of suffering, the cessation of suffering, and the path leading to the cessation of suffering. From its origin in the Indian sub-continent, Buddhism has spread to Thailand and prospered here until it is now regarded as the national religion, with the majority of Thais being Buddhists.

There are many Buddhist activities and celebrations every year in Thailand to pay respect to Buddha and remind Buddhists of his teachings. The Day of Vesak on the occasion of Buddhajayanti is a historic event celebrated nationwide by all sectors of the society since mid May 2012. The main activities taking place at Sanam Luang in Bangkok include merit-making and walks around Buddha’s relics or “Wien Thien.” The last walk on Vesak Day, which is on 4 June 2012, will be presided over by His Royal Highness Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn. Another grand Vesak celebration is taking place at Buddha Monthon or Buddhist Park in Nakhon Pathom province, where Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn will attend a “Wien Thien” ceremony on 4 June at 4.30 pm.

The Buddhajayanti celebrations extend beyond the Day of Vesak. After 4 June, the International Buddhist Film Festival 2012 will be organized for the first time in Thailand at SF World Cinema at CentralWorld from 7-10 June 2012. The event features 15 films from 10 countries including Thailand, Japan, China, Korea, U.S.A. and Germany. The opening movie is “Prem Sanyas” or “The Light of Asia,” a 1925 silent movie about the life of Buddha and the origin of Buddhism.

The Day of Vesak on the occasion of Buddhajayanti marking 2,600 years of Buddha’s enlightenment is a once in a life time event. Buddhists should take this opportunity to support Buddhism, practice his teachings, and do good deeds as taught by Buddha, as well as by the founders of the world’s other religions.

-- NNT 2012-06-04

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More Swedish companies to invest in Thailand

BANGKOK, 4 June 2012 (NNT) – Deputy Commerce Minister Siriwat Kajornprasart has revealed that a Swedish representative has recently discussed trade cooperation with the Thai counterpart, aiming to promote Swedish investments in several industries in Thailand.

According to Mr Siriwat, Swedish State Secretary for trade minister Gunnar Oom has said that Sweden is willing to invest in many areas in Thailand; for instance, Volvo has recently shifted its truck production base from China to Thailand, while Electrolux has moved its refrigerator production base to the kingdom as well.

Mr Oom revealed that many other Swedish electronic and eco-technology firms are looking to invest in Thailand; however, they are still worried about the Thai Foreign Business Act. In response, Mr Siriwat said he is willing to give an ear to those companies so they could tell him his problems and he will assist them accordingly.

The Swedish State Secretary for trade minister further elaborated that his country will plan a Thai-Swedish joint operation to promote information exchange as well as political, economic, social, technological, environmental, energy, tourism, and education cooperation between the two. He also suggested that the Thai government establish Free-Trade Area (FTA) with the European Union (EU), the matter which the Thai deputy commerce minister said he is willing to discuss with the EU.

-- NNT 2012-06-04

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Phuket Crime: Mutilated body found on Nai Yang Beach

Phuket Gazette

Local residents and lifeguards at Nai Yang Beach await the arrival of Phuket Police and rescue workers. Photo: Thawit Bilabdullar

PHUKET: -- Police in Phuket are trying to identify a mutilated body that washed ashore at Nai Yang Beach yesterday morning as the first step in a murder investigation.

Full story:

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Bangkok Viphavadee-Rangsit Road-Racing Police Nab 100 Teen Riders & 78 Bikes

Viphavadee police station and Kookot police station officers arrested teenage motorbike riders who were using the Viphavadee-Rangsit public road for street racing.

BANGKOK – June 3, 2012 [PDN]; Pol. Lt. Col. Sanong Saengmanee, traffic inspector, controller of Viphavadee-Rangsit traffic/special route with more than 30 officers, mobilized forces to blockade teenage motorbike riders at the u-turn point in front of the warehouse entrance of Donmuang Airport.

The police arrested 106 motorbike riders, 64 juveniles; 51 male, 13 female and 42 adults; 34 male, 8 female and seized 78 motorbikes. Pol. Lt. Col. Sanong said that they have been receiving complaints by the locals about teenagers using the Viphavadee-Rangsit road for high speed motorbike racing.

Full story: http://www.pattayada...iders-78-bikes/

-- Pattaya Daily News 2012-06-04

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Govt chief whip asks House Speaker to call joint parliamentary sitting June 8; may discuss court order for House to suspend vetting charter rewrite bill /MCOT

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Democrat Party leader Abhisit urges Cabinet tomorrow to issue draft royal decree to close House session to defuse political rift /MCOT

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People celebrate Visakha Puja Day with merit-making

BANGKOK, 4 June 2012 (NNT) – Buddhists in Bangkok are celebrating Visahka Puja Day with merit-making, with the biggest celebration being held in Sanam Luang.

Bangkok Governor M.R. Sukhumbhand Paribatra this morning led the people in a merit-making ceremony, during which rice and dry food were offered to 214 monks. A Wien Tien or walk with lighted candles in hand around a temple ceremony will also be held on the auspicious occasion of Visahka Puja Day.

This year is particularly special, as the day is also the 2,600th anniversary of the Buddha’s Enlightenment. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has brought a Buddha’s relic from the Grand Palace for the people to pay respect for good blessings. Besides, a parade of four regional flowers is also be organized for the people to take memorable pictures.

Another important part of the event, an overnight prayer will kicks off tonight at 11 p.m.

Visakha Puja Day marks the three important incidents in the life of the Lord Buddha on the same day, including the birth, enlightenment, and nirvana.

-- NNT 2012-06-04

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FTI fears impact from reconciliation bill conflict

BANGKOK, 4 June 2012 (NNT) – The Federation of Industries (FTI) is calling for a stop to the ongoing unrest brought on by the reconciliation bill, fearing that it will have an impact on the business sector and damage the country’s reputation.

FTI Secretary-General Sommart Khunset has disclosed that the FTI expects the government, the Opposition, the protestors and all relevant sides to come up with a speedy solution to the conflict surrounding the reconciliation bill. Mr. Sommart explained that entrepreneurs are concerned that the problem will escalate and produce impact on the the business sector and damage the country’s reputation, causing overseas customers to stop placing orders for Thai products in fear of entrepreneurs' inability to deliver on time, similar to the case of last year’s flood crisis.

The Secretary-General said that the content of the reconciliation bill must be accepted by all sides, otherwise more conflicts will arise leading to a tremendous impact on the economy.

The Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB), comprising of the STI, the Thai Chamber of Commerce and the Thai Bankers’ Association, will hold a meeting on 5th June, to discuss the country’s political situation, which is becoming more violent. Mr. Sommart stated that the private sector is already facing a difficult time, with last year's flood, higher initial cost, soaring energy price and the increased 300-baht daily minimum wage hike. If the government fails to contain the situation, the export sector will be the most affected given foreign entrepreneurs' lack of confidence in Thailand’ ability to manufacture and deliver on time. They will, instead, place their orders with other countries to avoid the risk.

-- NNT 2012-06-04

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Public Health warns residents of influenza spread during rainy season

BANGKOK, 4 June 2012 (NNT) – The Public Health Ministry has warned residents to be aware of the spread of influenza during the rainy season, citing up to 900,000 people have been infected with the virus each year.

The Department of Disease Control (DDC) has revealed that influenza usually spreads during the rainy season. The DDC and the National Health Security Office (NHSO) are therefore offering free vaccines against AH1N1, AH3N2, and B-type viruses to people in seven risk groups.

They are (1) people with chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, chronic kidney disease, diabetes, and immunodeficiency, (2) elderly over 65 years of age, (3) people heavier than 100 kilograms, (4) autistic patients, (5) children from 6 months old-2 years old, (6) pregnant women, and (7) medical practitioners and officials who work with poultry.

The Ministry expects to give the vaccines to 3.55 million people. The service is provided at all hospitals participating in the NHSO from June 1st-September 30th.

-- NNT 2012-06-04

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RT @BreakingNews: China's censors block terms tied to Tiananmen Square on 23rd anniversary of crackdown - @reuters http://reut.rs/Nbcz6L

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OFF THE MARK

Viewers are losers as GMM Grammy, TrueVisions fight

Jintana Panyaarvudh

A poster with the logo of the UEFA EURO 2012 can be seen on a street in the center of Wroclaw, Poland, 31 May 2012. The UEFA EURO 2012 will take place from 08 June to 01 July 2012 and is co hosted by Poland and Ukraine. EPA/MACIEJ KULCZYNSKI

Thai soccer fans have started the countdown to Euro 2012, which kicks off on Friday night.

All 31 matches will be broadcast on free TV but it does not mean all fans will be able to enjoy the matches free.

BANGKOK: -- GMM Grammy, the media rights holder for the tournament, co-hosted by Ukraine and Poland, has allied with free TV channels and will televise the matches from June 8 to July 1. Channel 3 will be the main broadcaster and the final four games of the group stage will be simultaneously televised on Channels 5 and 9 as well.

Full story:

[Lite Beer]

Phuket police confirm identity of mutilated man

Phuket Gazette –

Phuket Kusoldharm workers at Nai Yang Beach prepare to transport the corpse to Thalang Hospital. Photo: Thawit Bilabdullar

PHUKET: Phuket Police have identified the mutilated body that washed ashore at Nai Yang Beach yesterday.

Full Story: http://www.thaivisa....h/#entry5359954

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Joint parliamentary sitting sought for Friday

BANGKOK, June 4 – The government chief whip has asked the Speaker of the House to call a joint parliamentary sitting on Friday to discuss Section 190 of the Constitution so that senators and members of the lower house may discuss together whether or not the Constitution Court has authority to order the House to suspend deliberations on the charter amendment bill.

Full story: