Pattaya Rescuers Find 4 Missing French Visitors Stranded on an Island

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2 May 2024, 16:18

french pattaya2 — The four French tourists went out on a boat to go spearfishing at 7:00 a.m. on May 1, 2024.

PATTAYA – A group of four French tourists went missing at sea, unreachable since Wednesday morning. As a result, the Pattaya water rescue team frantically searched for them. Later, they found only an empty boat floating in the middle of the sea, fearing that they may have encountered a tragic accident. However, in the end, they were fortunate that the rescue team found them stranded on an island.

The four French tourists are Mr. Adrien, 38 years old, Mr. Mehdi, 47 years old, Mr. Vincent, 30 years old, and Mr. Stefan, 32 years old. They went out on a boat to go spearfishing at 7:00 a.m. on May 1. After that, they lost contact and disappeared. Both foreign and Thai friends were unable to contact them.

Later, a Facebook user named Supoj Chomdokmai posted a picture of a 1-engine speedboat named “VAZIMOLO” with a message saying, “Friends, please help share this. This boat went out at Na Jomtien this morning, May 1, around 7:00 AM. It has not returned to shore yet and is unreachable. There were 4 people on board. If anyone sees it, please contact me.”

french pattaya3 — “An internet user posted a picture of a boat on Facebook, saying ‘Did anyone’s friends or relatives go out fishing? I found the boat but not the people.'”

He posted again that someone found this boat floating aimlessly in the middle of the sea, about 11 nautical miles from Koh Si Chang, Si Racha district, towards the Bangkok channel, but no one was found on the boat.

After that, the water rescue operation team of the Sawang Boriboon Rescue Foundation in Pattaya launched a speedboat from the Jomtien Pier, Moo 12, Nong Prue Subdistrict, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi Province, to search for them but could not find them.

Until 10:45 a.m. on May 2, the Sawang Rojanapattaya rescue team and the sailor Ek who posted the search message on Facebook found the four foreigners stranded on Koh Marawichai, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi Province. They were all safe but in an exhausted and hungry state.

french pattaya1 — The French tourists posed in a wai gesture to thank the police and the rescue team for helping them.

The rescue team brought them back to Bang Saray Pier, Na Jomtien Subdistrict at 12:10 p.m. Pattaya tourist police came down to question them and follow up on everything that happened.

Mr. Adrien stated that they went diving at Koh Marawichai and anchored their boat. However, when they surfaced again, the anchored boat had drifted away, causing it to float far from the island. So they stayed on the island for one night before a rescue boat arrived. They then conveyed hand gestures for assistance.

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Thai-US Seizes 48 Lemurs and 1,076 Tortoises from Wildlife Trafficking Ring

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2 May 2024, 15:11

BANGKOK – The police officers arrested suspects in possession of 48 lemurs and 1,076 star tortoises at a hotel in Khun Krating sub-district, Muang Chumphon district,Chumphon Province, southern Thailand. They seized all the animals and took them to Bangkok.

Pol. Maj. Gen. Wacharin Pusit, commander of the Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Suppression Division, along with representatives from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, held a press conference on May 1 to announce the arrest of a major international wildlife trafficking ring at the Central Investigation Bureau in Bangkok.

Six suspects were arrested in the operation: Mr. Pichitpol (also known as Game) Sriduangmaneechai, 31; Mr. Chitrin Phumali, 39; Mr. Ongarj Sriduangmaneechai, 29; Ms. Wiriyaorn Phumali, 39; Mr. Thaweepong Champathong, 43; and Ms. Chuthamas Chitchaeng, 33.

lemur1 — Police seized 48 lemurs and 1,076 star tortoises at a hotel in Khun Krating sub-district, Muang Chumphon district, Chumphon Province on May 1, 2024.

Pol. Maj. Gen. Wacharin said officials had received a tip-off about a group of international wildlife traffickers smuggling African wildlife into La-ngu district in Satun province before transporting them to Bangkok for onward shipment to third countries. Authorities from different agencies worked together and deployed forces to monitor different routes.

They spotted the six suspects entering Chumphon province in four pickup trucks matching the informant’s description. The officers tracked the vehicles to a hotel near the Khun Krating temple, the suspects’ usual stopover. Upon searching the vehicles, the officers discovered a large number of lemurs and star tortoises hidden inside.

The animals were confiscated as evidence and the suspects were taken into custody for questioning.

lemur3 scaled — Police seized 48 lemurs and 1,076 star tortoises at a hotel in Khun Krating sub-district, Muang Chumphon district, Chumphon Province on May 1, 2024.

While all six suspects denied the allegations, police have evidence that Mr. Pichitpol had previously been arrested for a similar offense. As the suspects are involved in a large international wildlife trafficking ring, the authorities have been monitoring their activities for several years.

The investigation yielded extensive evidence and further investigation revealed that the suspects had traveled to Madagascar and Indonesia to check on the condition of the confiscated wildlife. The seizure of hundreds of lemurs and star tortoises is the largest operation of its kind to date.

lemur2 — Pol. Maj. Gen. Wacharin Pusit, commander of the Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Suppression Division, along with representatives from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, held a press conference on May 1 to announce the arrest of a major international wildlife trafficking ring at the Central Investigation Bureau in Bangkok.

According to the investigation, the lemurs and tortoises were caught illegally on Madagascar, an island off the African coast. They were then taken to the island of Sumatra in the Indonesian province of Aceh before being loaded onto a ship and brought ashore in the Langu district of Satun province.

The plan was to transport the animals to Bangkok, from where they would be shipped to Hong Kong, Taiwan and South Korea, where they are popular pets and considered lucky charms. Star tortoises, which usually sell for 100,000 baht per animal in Thailand, fetch up to ten times as much in Hong Kong, where they are traded for 1 million baht or more.

The six suspects are initially charged with “possession of controlled wildlife without a permit” and “violations of the Customs Act” They will be transferred to the DNP’s Wildlife Crime Investigation Unit 5 for further court proceedings.

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JerHigh X Cullen & P’Jung Introduce Grain-Free Diets for Beloved Dogs

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Contributor

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2 May 2024, 14:24

JerHigh, a leading brand in the pet food sector, is introducing JerHigh MORE, a grain-free formula for dogs. Alongside this launch comes the introduction of its newest ambassadors, Cullen & P’Jung, well-known figures from the popular YouTube channel Hateberry.

Their ambassadorship reflects their purely love for pets, evident in their content, and serves as a platform to convey JerHigh’s dedication to providing top-quality products for pets.

Kitisak Limamphai, Managing Director of International Pet Foods Co., Ltd., shared the company’s commitment to collaborating with veterinarians to develop pet foods that meet the diverse health needs of dogs of all breeds and ages.

The latest offering, JerHigh MORE Grain-Free, is crafted without corn or soybeans, reducing allergy risks. It is also free from sugars and artificial colors, delivering complete and balanced nutrition to enhance coat health and skin condition.

“This year, JerHigh continues to delight pet lovers by partnering with Cullen and P’Jung, who share a profound affection for pets. Their travels always include JerHigh pet food and snacks, ensuring a joyful experience for their furry companions. We’re excited to collaborate with them and share the love for JerHigh with their followers,” said Kitisak.

Cullen and P’Jung expressed their enthusiasm for working with JerHigh, highlighting their genuine love for dogs. They noted JerHigh as their preferred brand for pet food, ensuring their pets’ happiness wherever they go.

JerHigh MORE Grain-Free offers various formulas suitable for dogs with different dietary needs, including chicken, chicken and liver, and salmon, suitable for all dogs aged three months and above. The products are available at leading supermarkets, convenience stores, and pet shops nationwide, as well as online through JerHigh’s official channels on Facebook, Line, and their website.

JerHigh serves as a conduit connecting pet owners with their beloved companions under the concept of “Feed me with love,” treating pets as integral family members. The company is dedicated to developing innovative pet food certified by AAFCO standards, equivalent to human food, utilizing modern technology and high-quality ingredients to ensure pets’ health and longevity.

GAC AION launches the Hyper HT

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Contributor

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2 May 2024, 11:12

GAC AION launches the Hyper HT, a high-end electric SUV. Aesthetics of art and technology.

GAC AION launches the Hyper HT, a high-end luxury electric SUV. Offering superior options for Thai consumers with premium luxury and modern design with intelligent technology and innovation. Driving range up to 600 kilometers, with an introductory price not exceeding 1.9 million baht.

Mr. Ocean Ma, Managing Director of ION Automobile Sales (Thailand) and Managing Director of ION Automobile Manufacturing (Thailand) Co., Ltd., said that GAC AION is considered one of the first automobile companies of any other in a world where research on electric power and intelligent technology has been achieved, both electric vehicles (EV) and intelligent connected vehicles (Intelligent Connected Vehicles: ICV) fully. At the same time, it is well known that GAC AION can research and produce the three main parts of electric vehicles, whether they are batteries, motors, electrical control panels, or ECUs, which makes GAC AION a leader in the world’s new energy vehicle industry.

In the past, 2023, it was considered a year in which GAC AION grew by leaps and bounds with sales of more than 480,000 electric cars, an increase of 77% from last year. It ranks as the second electric car brand in China and the third electric car brand in the world. On December 28, 2023, GAC AION created the record for producing and selling 1 million cars, which is the fastest in the world. It took only 4 years and 8 months. GAC AION’s ability and superiority are guaranteed in terms of production processes, product quality, and strong marketing.

GAC AION currently has two car brands within the group: AION, an electric car brand that comes with great value and modern exterior and interior design complete with intelligent technology and features, and Hyper, a high-end electric car brand (Hi-End) that comes with luxury and the most advanced technology.

Mr. Ocean Ma further said that in early 2024, GAC AION will launch Hyper (Hyper) to market in Thailand, which is a high-end electric car brand (Hi-End that meets the needs of customers who are passionate about luxury, technology, and advanced performance. Which reflect the image and superior taste by inventing the best innovation and technology to be used in various car models of Hyper. The brand’s logo represents the AI ARROW to show the potential for continuous development of electric cars with the concept of developing four main principles: “advanced (ADVANCE), modern (TRENDY), fun (FUN), and high quality (HIGH-GRADE),” which creates perfection in both technological innovation and artistic creativity, mixed together in car production to provide customers with “highest performance that comes with a luxury experience and top-class service.”

GAC AION’s Hyper brand currently has three electric car models as follows:

– Hyper HT, a premium electric SUV, provides maximum comfort to the driver and passengers. The car is large and comfortable to sit in, with high-end functions and features. Gullwing doors open and close with a full electric system with an introductory price not exceeding 1.9 million baht at the recent Motor Show 2024.

– Hyper GT An electric sports sedan with a sleek design and a luxurious interior that features butterfly doors and high-end options.

– Hyper SSR The first 100% electric hypercar in Thailand. It comes with a lightweight carbon fiber body and 3 electric motors (1 front and 2 rear), providing a total power of up to 1,224 horsepower, which is capable of accelerating from 0-100 kilometers per hour. The fastest is within 1.9 seconds and has a pulling force of 1.7 G.

As for the electric car, the Hyper HT is considered an electric SUV that comes with world-class luxury and intelligent technology, which is superior with a unique curved exterior design (liquid curved body) that stands out with double gullwing rear doors (Gullwing Doors) ready to open-close with a full electrical system. Attracting every eye that sees it. The interior of the cabin is decorated with premium materials that have been carefully selected. Add premium luxury, including many convenient functions such as electric massage seats, adjustable massage levels in many ways, high-quality leather seats that provide an excellent sitting experience with ventilation and seat heating functions to increase relaxation, rear seats that can recline up to 143 degrees, the most in their class, a high-quality audio system, and many other features.

The highlight of the Hyper HT comes with a foldable rear footrest to add space to stretch your legs to the utmost and a multi-purpose table for placing various items, answering a variety of uses. Increase privacy with double-layer laminated sound-proof glass and an extra-large luggage space with a capacity of 670 liters. When the seats are folded, the space can be used up to 1,802 liters, able to hold two large golf bags easily. Maximum motor power is 180 kilowatts, maximum motor torque is 355 Newton-meters, acceleration rate of 0-100 kilometers per hour is 6.8 seconds, and maximum running distance is 600 kilometers.

Hyper HT was developed with four main concepts:

Hyper Design – The ultimate in superior design is like a work of art in the automotive world. Attracting every eye with Gullwing Doors, Diamond Cut headlights, and Horizon taillights.

Hyper Space – Provides comfort inside the cabin with a luxurious interior space decorated with premium materials. Providing a “first-class” driving and riding experience with a 10-point massage function and a rear passenger seat that can recline up to 143 degrees.

Hyper Energy – Go farther and faster with 2nd generation Magazine Battery technology and the Fast Charge system. Charge for just 15 minutes and it can run 400 kilometers, and if fully charged, it can run more than 600 kilometers.

Hyper Network – The Hyper Premium Charging Network is exclusive to Hyper customers. In 2024, 15 charging stations will be built, covering a radius of 15 kilometers in Bangkok. In 2028, the network of charging stations will be expanded to 100 nationwide.

Saudi Man Discovers His Thai Nanny After Being Apart for 20 Years

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Khaosod English

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2 May 2024, 02:39

saudi thai nanny1 — Ali ran to hug his Thai nanny with joy at her house in the Nonsombun Subdistrict, Soeng Sang District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province.

NAKHON RACHASIMA – Ali Bokhari, a 33-year-old Saudi Arabian man, embarked on a journey to find his Thai nanny who took care of him in Saudi Arabia when he was a child, more than 30 years ago. He had been trying to find her for a long time, hoping to repay her kindness for raising him.

Finally, he found his nanny in the Nonsombun Subdistrict, Soeng Sang District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province.

Mrs. Banyen Thongchaithanawayu, 77 years old, gave an interview with Khaosod reporter on May, 1. She recounted that she had taken care of Ali and his siblings since 1992. At that time, she was working as a maid in Saudi Arabia. However, after learning that her son had been in a serious accident and needed surgery, she rushed back to Thailand. At that time, Ali was 14 years old.

saudi nanny4 — Mrs. Banyen took care of Ali and his brother when they were so young in Saudi Arabia.

Ali’s father had bought a phone and provided a number for them to keep in touch. But after returning to Thailand, she never went back to work in Saudi Arabia again. Although she had kept this phone number for 30 years in case of contacting Ali, she never thought that Ali would fly to Thailand to find her.

One day, she received a phone call from a hotel in Pattaya, using the number Ali’s father had bought for her, asking for her address. After that, Ali rented a car and drove to her home in Nonsombun Subdistrict, Soeng Sang District.

The moment they saw each other, Ali ran to hug her with joy and longing. Both of them had tears in their eyes. They asked about each other’s lives. She even cooked for Ali, just like she used to do in Saudi Arabia.

The reason Ali came to see her this time was to repay her kindness for raising him since birth. Seeing that she had difficulty walking, Ali bought her a 3-wheeled electric motorcycle so that she wouldn’t have to walk and suffer from leg pain. He also arranged for a car to take her to the hospital in Nakhon Ratchasima city center and would cover the travel expenses for her doctor’s visits.

saudi thai nanny2 — Ali took his nanny to buy her a 3-wheeled electric motorcycle so that she wouldn’t have to walk and suffer from leg pain.

Before Ali returned to Saudi Arabia, he told her that he would come back to visit her every year.

“I never thought that after being apart for several decades, Ali would still miss me. Even though we are from different countries and ethnicities, he tried his best to find me to repay my kindness. I am very happy and deeply touched,” she said.

Ali stated that he visited Thailand for the first time to find “my mom,” who has raised him since day 1 of being on earth in Saudi Arabia. It was an emotional moment when he met her again.

“It was a really big day; I cried so much, and I was also happy that I found you, so…” li paused and said it with a kiss on her forehead, making her laugh.

He also thanked the taxi driver who helped him find his nanny’s house. He promised to come back to Thailand.

Microsoft’s New Data Center in Thailand: Boosting AI Skills for 100K

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Khaosod English

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2 May 2024, 01:45

investment — Microsoft Chairman and CEO Satya Nadella announced a new data center region in Thailand to build the nation's digital-first, AI-powered future.

BANGKOK – Microsoft Chairman and CEO Satya Nadella announced a new data center region in Thailand to build the nation’s digital-first, AI-powered future. The new cloud and AI infrastructure in Thailand will provide AI skilling opportunities for over 100,000 people, and support the nation’s growing developer community.

Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who delivered a special address, attended the announcement at the Microsoft Build: AI Day event in Bangkok on May 1. There were also approximately 2,000 developers and business and technology leaders participating.

According to Microsoft, the new cloud data center region will expand the availability of the hyperscale cloud and AI services in Thailand, ensuring enterprise-grade reliability, performance, and compliance with data residency and privacy standards.

The commitments build on Microsoft’s memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Royal Thai Government to envision the nation’s digital-first, AI-powered future.

microsoft srettha2 — Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin takes a picture with Microsoft Chairman and CEO Satya Nadella at the Microsoft Build: AI Day event, the QSNCC in Bangkok on May 1, 2024. (Khaosod Photo/ Sompong Wanjapoh)

Microsoft’s skilling commitment is expected to benefit more than 100,000 individuals in Thailand.

It will enhance the AI proficiency of those involved in the nation’s tourism sector through the AI Skills for the AI-enabled Tourism Industry program. The initiative is a partnership between Microsoft and Thailand’s Ministry of Digital Economy and Society, Ministry of Tourism and Sports, Ministry of Labour, and the nation’s Technology Vocational Education Training Institute. It aims to empower young entrepreneurs and youths involved in tourism businesses across minor-tier geographic provinces in all five regions of Thailand.

The learning module will be accessible through partners’ learning platforms to ensure sustainability and scalability.

The tourism initiative builds on other Microsoft-supported skilling initiatives in Thailand, including Accelerating Thailand, the ASEAN Cyber Security Programme, Code; Without Barriers, and the Junior Software Developer Program.

microsoft srettha — Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin delivers a speech at the Microsoft Build: AI Day event in Bangkok on May 1, 2024. (Khaosod Photo/ Sompong Wanjapoh)

Microsoft will also enable the Royal Thai Government to adopt a cloud-first policy with an AI skill development program for developers and government IT personnel.

In his speech, Prime Minister Srettha stated that his government’s ‘Ignite Thailand’ vision for 2030 aims to develop the country’s stature as a regional digital economy hub that significantly enhances our innovation and R&D capabilities while also strengthening our tech workforce.

“Today’s announcement with Microsoft is a significant milestone in the journey of our ‘Ignite Thailand’ vision – one that promises new opportunities for growth, innovation, and prosperity for all Thais.”

Mr. Satya Nadella said Thailand has an incredible opportunity to build a digital-first, AI-powered future.

“Our new datacenter region, along with the investments we are making in cloud and AI infrastructure, as well as AI skilling, build on our long-standing commitment to the country – and will help Thai organizations across the public and private sector drive new impact and growth.”

Dhanawat Suthumpun, Managing Director of Microsoft Thailand, added that Microsoft is dedicated to helping Thailand excel as a digital economy, ensuring that the benefits of cloud and AI technologies are widespread and contribute to the prosperity and wellbeing of Thais.

“Together, we are laying the foundations for a future that is not only technologically advanced but also inclusive and sustainable,” he said.

American YouTuber Injures Girlfriend, Claims It’s for Content Creation

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Khaosod English

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1 May 2024, 23:51

american youtuber3 — The American YouTuber came out to get treatment for his wounds before being taken to the hospital.

CHONBURI – An American YouTuber hit his Thai girlfriend with a golf club, but his friend claimed he did it for content creation.

At 2 p.m. on May 1, police officers from Huai Yai Police Station in Chon Buri Province received a report of a foreign man going berserk and injuring his wife at a residence in Huai Yai Subdistrict, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri Province. They, along with rescue workers, traveled to the scene to investigate.

At the incident location, which was a townhouse, a 30-year-old American man named Mr. Murphy was shouting incoherently and smashing household items, causing damage and scattering them throughout the house. There were blood stains all over the walls, and blood-stained knives, golf clubs and other items were found scattered around the house. The man himself had a severe wound on his stomach from being cut by glass.

american youtuber1 — There were blood stains all over the floor.

Miss Khanittha suffered bruises and cuts from glass shards after being beaten with a golf club by Mr. Murphy. Her 16-year-old sister, who was also injured by the glass, managed to call for help from the maid and friends. The two sisters escaped through a window before the authorities arrived.

When police officers surrounded the house, the American man locked himself in the bathroom. His friends and the officers attempted to persuade him to come out to receive medical attention for his wounds before being transferred to the hospital.

american youtuber4 — Mr. Murphy is the YouTuber, who has over 2.4 million subscribers on his channel.

According to Miss Khanittha, she was asleep when she heard the sound of breaking glass and falling objects. Upon investigating, she found her boyfriend shouting incoherently, with blood running down his body. He then attacked her with a golf club, forcing her to seek refuge in her sister’s room. She stated that she does not know the reason for his actions.

Disturbingly, a friend of Mr. Murphy claimed that the YouTuber, who has over 2.4 million subscribers on his channel, did not actually hurt his girlfriend and that the incident was merely a part of content creation. The police are currently investigating the matter further.

Matichon Is Trying To Make People’s Voices In Thailand Senator Election Louder

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Khaosod English

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1 May 2024, 15:14

BANGKOK – The first election, or selection instead, of senators in Thailand after the coup d’etat on May 22, 2014 is going to take place this summer, with a format that does not allow the people to elect them. Additionally, it sets strange conditions that prohibit candidates from campaigning.

It also emphasizes that the constitution, written by the junta-appointed committee, does not view democracy as a system that must involve maximum public participation, and must provide space for freedom of expression.

Mr. Sawaeng Boonmee, Secretary-General of the Election Commission, clarified on April 30 that citizens do not have the direct right to vote for senators, as the constitution does not grant this right. Citizens can only access information on senator candidates’ profiles through the ECT’s “Smart Vote” app and website. The candidates are divided into 20 professional groups across 928 districts, 77 provinces, and the national level.

The media can report normally according to professional principles on which professional groups the candidates belong to, analyze them, host forums, and interview candidates, but cannot assist candidates in campaigning/promoting themselves.
Senator candidates must introduce themselves only as permitted by ECT laws and regulations. Violations like falsely claiming eligibility, vote-buying, fraud, or accepting political party assistance can lead to disqualification or criminal penalties like fines and imprisonment.
Politicians who are members or hold positions in political parties are strictly prohibited from assisting any senator candidates.

“It’s the worst rules and darkest senatorial elections. Each candidate can only introduce oneself to voters in no more than 5 sentences. Think for yourself what Thailand’s future will be like?” said former Election Commission Somchai Srisutthiyakorn.

Somchai’s opinion is similar to many others who joined the press conference to launch the “Matichon: New Senators Thailand-Select” campaign organized at Khaosod Company office on April 30.

matichon select4 — “Matichon: New Senators Thailand-Select” campaign organized at Khaosod Company office on April 30.

Suwapong Chan-fangphet, editor of Matichon Weekly and an organizer of the campaign, stated about Matichon’s intentions in organizing this event and their commitment to continuously reporting news and opinions on the senate election:

“I take this opportunity to offer this platform for everyone to express their opinions and views. I affirm that all publications and editions of the Matichon media group, we want to make this senate election, which some are trying to keep as quiet as possible, as loud as possible by allowing people to share their views.”

matichon select5 — Suwapong Chan-fangphet, editor of Matichon Weekly

This campaign is joined by the Matichon Group together with the editorial team of the online Way Magazine, and leading academic partners from the Faculty of Political Science at Chulalongkorn University, Thammasat University, and Chiang Mai University’s Faculty of Political Science.

Essentially, Suwapong states that despite attempts to suppress coverage of this undemocratic senate selection process, Matichon media outlets will amplify it by providing a platform for public discourse. They are partnering with academics to facilitate open discussion around this controversial election.

Mrs. Sri Prai Nonthree, a representative from labor unions in the Rangsit area and nearby said in this event that as a very poor person herself, the opportunity for people to have a real representative is unattainable. Just to register as a candidate requires paying 2,500 baht, and voters also have to pay 2,500 baht. It is not true democracy, but rather rules embedded with dictatorship.

matichon select2 — Mrs. Sri Prai Nonthree

She argues that requiring fees from both candidates and voters goes against democratic principles and entrenches authoritarian power in the selection process for these new senators. Her perspective aligns with the concerns raised initially about this undemocratic senate selection process lacking public participation and freedom of expression.

Mr. Yingcheep Atchanont, project manager of iLaw (Internet for Public Laws), commented that in past years when discussing democratic elections, we spoke about the hopes of the new generation, students, and youth. But in this round, the rules are clear that the new generation does not have much participation.

“The rules for selecting senators this time are strange, distorted, and confusing. Yet senators are extremely important for the nation – in advancing towards a people’s constitution, selecting positions in organizations that must scrutinize state powers, and evaluating whether various laws are good or bad, which may be more important than MPs in many respects. But we know they don’t really want the people to participate much. But they can’t choose otherwise – in just a few more days, it will happen,” said Yingcheep.

matichon select3 — Mr. Yingcheep Atchanont

He criticizes the convoluted rules around this senate selection as being undemocratic and intentionally limiting participation from the younger generation, despite the crucial role senators play in government oversight and the country’s laws. He laments that this undemocratic selection is happening imminently, despite the public having no choice in the matter.

The applications for new senator candidates will be on May 13, followed by district level elections on June 9, provincial level elections on June 16 and national level elections on June 26. The results on the senate elections will be known on July 2.

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Police Arrest A British guy Who Attacked a Phuket Tuk Tuk Driver on Phi Phi Island

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Khaosod English

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1 May 2024, 13:05

british tuktuk2 — Police officers at Karon Police Station, Phuket Immigration Police, and Phuket Tourist Police questioned Mr. Graham at Karon Police Station on May 1, 2024.

PHUKET – Mr. Graham, a 35-year-old British man involved in the incident with the Thai tuk-tuk driver in Phuket, was detained at a Phi Phi Island resort in Ao Nang, Mueang Krabi District, at 9:00 p.m. on April 30 and transported to Phuket’s Karon Police Station.

Video footage inside a car shows him using his two hands to strangle the driver’s neck at 4:00 a.m. on April 27.

On Wednesday, May 1, police officers from Karon Police Station brought Mr. Graham to court to face the charge of assault without causing physical or mental harm. This came after police arrested him on Phi Phi Island in Krabi province.

Abdulla, a tuk-tuk driver, stated that he picked up the British guy, Mr. Graham, from the Patong area and drove him to a hotel in Karon, Mueang Phuket District, for 400 baht. When they arrived at the hotel, Mr. Graham claimed to have given the driver a 1,000-baht Thai cash and demanded change. However, Abdulla asserted that it was merely a 100-baht note. The two argued, and then Mr. Graham grabbed Abdulla’s neck, hit him in the face, and fled.

Screenshot 2567 05 01 at 12.52.32 — Video footage inside a car shows him using his two hands to strangle the driver’s neck at 4:00 a.m. on April 27.

Following the event, Abdulla went to Patong Hospital for a medical evaluation. The doctor determined that he had an injury to his left cheek but no evident external wounds. He then proceeded to the Karon Police Station and filed an official complaint against Mr. Graham.

Later, at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, officers from Karon Police Station, Phuket Immigration Police, and Phuket Tourist Police questioned Mr. Graham together. He admitted to the claimed conduct and apologised for the incident. Mr. Abdulla, the other party involved, gave the police with additional testimony. His father, Mr. Bunghe, joined him, saying he and his son were pleased with and thankful to the police.

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Bangkok Makes Progress in Improving Sidewalks and Sets 10 Standards

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1 May 2024, 09:28

BANGKOK – Sidewalks in Bangkok, which have been notorious for being uneven, easily damaged, and often a tripping hazard, are now being renovated. Officials from the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) are gradually improving the sidewalks, and many areas have already been completed, including Ratchadamri Road and Phloen Chit Road in the heart of the city’s business district.

Ekwaranyu Amrapal, BMA spokesperson, said that there are currently 16 routes of BMA sidewalks being improved under the new sidewalk standards, such as Ratchadamri Road, Phloen Chit Road, and Udomsuk Road. This year, there are plans to implement the new sidewalk standards on 38 more routes, followed by 22 more in 2025.

The BMA has set itself the goal of making the sidewalks in Bangkok barrier-free, pleasant to walk on and inviting. Initially, 1,000 km are to be achieved using three methods: Building new paths, repairing the damaged areas that need urgent repairs and adapting the innovations to the specific area.

Asphalt is used as a road surface for some less busy routes in suburban areas. The pilot routes include Phutthabucha Road, Khum Klao Road, Old Railway Line Road (Pak Nam), Phutthamonthon Sai 1 Road and Chalermphrakiat Rama 9 Road.

Each improved route will have its own unique features, such as: Artfully designed manhole covers: The manhole covers on Ratchadamri Road and Ploenchit Road have been designed to be both attractive and representative of the character of the neighborhood. BMA plans to roll out this concept to other routes, making them one of the city’s symbols, similar to Japan’s manhole covers that incorporate city symbols.

There will also be an inline drainage system: The drainage channels along the entire length of the road have been converted from the old drainage channels next to the sidewalk to inline drainage channels. This will drain water away from the road more quickly and prevent flooding.

sidewalk new2 — Bangkok is currently renovating its sidewalks in many area, including Ratchaprasong. (Photo by Pattarayoot Phukpol)

“The manhole covers are intended to be both attractive and representative of the character of the Ratchadamri and Phloen Chit districts,” Ekwaranyu said. “They are among the pilot routes using the new sidewalk standards, which are more durable, offer more universal design and have a more consistent height between building entrances and sidewalks.”

BMA’s Public Works Department and the county departments responsible for sidewalk maintenance and repair deploy rapid response units (BEST) to repair damaged sections as quickly as possible and return them to a safe and usable condition. If a section can be converted to a new standard footpath, it will also be upgraded. The BMA is supported by the public in reporting damaged or dangerous areas via Traffy Fondue so that the districts can quickly become aware of problems.

“For routes that are not suitable for sidewalk construction, such as alleys or narrow areas, obstacles have been removed and a variety of methods have been used to accommodate the conditions, such as painting lines to delineate pedestrian areas and using porous asphalt to border trees to increase sidewalk width,” Ekwaranyu said.

sidewark new4 — Ekwaranyu Amrapal, BMA spokesperson states that BMA launches new, durable sidewalk standards to focus on pedestrians as the center and expands to 16 routes.

Natthaphon Nakphan, director of the Department of Public Works’ Construction and Renovation Division 1, added that the new, improved sidewalks will no longer have the same problems as before, such as loose tiles or potholes, as an extra layer of concrete will be added before the tiles are laid during construction, making them stronger. In the past, when the sub-base was sand, slugs were laid and when it rained, the water flowed into the gaps, eroding the sand and causing problems.

In addition, BMA officials will monitor and enforce the law to prevent unauthorized digging for the laying of pipelines. If an authority plans to excavate for the laying of public utility lines, it is required to restore the area to its original condition upon completion of the excavation work.

The 10 new BMA sidewalk standards are as follows:

Reduce the height of the sidewalk curb to a shallow ramp of 10 centimeters.
Reduce the height of the sidewalk curb at building entrances and alleys to 10 centimeters from the previous 18.50 centimeters.
Change the sidewalk surface to reinforced concrete for increased strength, using 10 centimeters of concrete and 6 millimeter reinforcing steel.
Make building entrances and exits flush with the sidewalk to allow all sidewalk users to pass through seamlessly and conveniently.
Adjust all ramps and slopes to a 1:12 incline in accordance with international standards.
Add alternative paving materials for sidewalks, such as stamped asphalt concrete.
Change vertical drainage channels to horizontal drainage channels to increase the flow rate of water.
Develop guidelines for the placement of utilities on sidewalks to avoid obstructing pedestrians.
Install tactile paving (Braille blocks) to assist visually impaired pedestrians.
Improve tree enclosures using porous asphalt materials to increase sidewalk width.

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