Year: 2023
- Transport News
Green Line extensions: Operator anticipates 20 billion baht debt repayment
Bangkok Mass Transit System Plc (BTSC) Chairman Keeree Kanjanapas expressed optimism regarding the repayment of overdue debts by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) for the operation and maintenance of the Green Line extensions. Following a meeting with Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt yesterday, Keeree said the discussions were encouraging, and he anticipates a 20 billion baht repayment from the BMA. Keeree…
Read More » - World News
Scouts pay 260 million baht in abuse compensation, campaign urges safeguarding policy change
Over the past decade, more than £6 million (260 million baht) has been paid out in compensation to individuals who suffered abuse within the Scouts, according to information obtained by the BBC File on 4. The data, collected from eight law firms specialising in child abuse claims, revealed that 166 cases were settled during this period. Lawyers have also noted…
Read More » - World News
Malaysia’s PN coalition nears agreement for six state elections
Negotiations among the Perikatan Nasional (PN) coalition’s component parties for the upcoming six state elections in Malaysia are nearly complete, with 97% of the seats agreed upon. PAS vice-president Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar revealed that only five to six seats remain undecided out of the 245 they plan to contest in Kelantan, Terengganu, Negeri Sembilan, Selangor, Kedah, and Penang. “There is…
Read More » - World News
Selangor considers banning pet shop sales to promote animal shelter adoptions
A potential ban on the sale of dogs and cats in pet shops across Selangor is being considered, as authorities aim to encourage adoption from animal shelters and reduce the number of abandoned pets. State executive councillor Ng Sze Han has suggested that pet stores focus on selling pet food instead, citing the success of a weekly pet adoption programme…
Read More » - World News
Umno deputy denies 2 million member exodus, questions Annuar’s claims
Umno deputy president Mohamad Hasan has denied claims made by former Umno information chief Annuar Musa that two million members have left the party. Mohamad, who is also the Barisan Nasional deputy chairman, urged Annuar to be cautious when making statements about Umno, even though he has the right to do so. “I don’t know where he got the numbers…
Read More » - World News
Malaysia disburses US$2 billion Rahmah Cash Aid for B40 group
Ahead of the Aidiladha celebration, the Malaysian government has announced the disbursement of the third phase of the Rahmah Cash Aid (STR) for the B40 group recipients. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim stated that this payment will involve an allocation of over US$2 billion, benefiting eight million beneficiaries across the nation. Additionally, Anwar mentioned that the e-Tunai Belia Rahmah, a cash…
Read More » - Crime News
Udon Thani clothing traders fall victim to 1.3 million baht online share scheme fraud
Clothing traders in Udon Thani reported a 38 year old woman known as ‘Som Priao‘ for defrauding over 30 people in an online share scheme and escaping with 1.3 million baht (US$37,700). The victims claim she now lives a luxurious life at their expense, as they face financial difficulties, and urge the police to help recover their funds. One victim, 38…
Read More » - Thailand News
Parking pandemonium: Thai woman seeks payment from Bangkok mall after car calamity
A Thai woman demanded a renowned shopping mall in Bangkok to compensate her after her car was smashed and her belongings were stolen at the mall’s car park on Sunday, June 11. The victim, Kitiyaporn, took to social media on Sunday to share her distressing experience, accompanied by pictures of her damaged car. The images reveal a shattered window on…
Read More » - Thailand News
Couple killed in crash, family seeks refund of 150,000 baht from land scam for daughter
A tragic road accident claimed the lives of a couple who had been scammed into purchasing a plot of land without proper documentation. The family is now seeking the return of 150,000 baht (US$4,350) paid towards the fraudulent land deal to support their young daughter. Today, 42 year old Pim Hengkham, from Wiang Nuea, Pai, Mae Hong Son province, revealed…
Read More » - World News
Mbappe informs PSG of exit plan amid Messi’s Inter Miami move
Kylian Mbappe, the French football sensation, has reportedly informed Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) that he intends to leave the Ligue 1 champions when his contract expires next year. This news comes from French sports newspaper L’Equipe and various international media outlets. On Monday, it was reported that Mbappe, 24 years old, shocked the PSG management with his decision not to take…
Read More » - World News
RNZ apologises for publishing pro-Kremlin content on Ukraine invasion
The head of New Zealand’s national public service radio broadcaster, Radio New Zealand (RNZ), has issued an apology for publishing content favouring the Kremlin’s narrative on the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Over a dozen wire agency articles were found to have been altered, prompting RNZ’s chief executive, Paul Thompson, to call it a “serious breach” of editorial standards and label…
Read More » - World News
Russian airstrike hits Kryvyi Rih civilians, causing destruction and injuries
A Russian airstrike has struck civilian targets in the central Ukrainian city of Kryvyi Rih, resulting in significant destruction and potentially trapping individuals beneath the debris, according to a local authority. Mayor Oleksandr Vilkul reported on Telegram that several people sustained severe injuries in the attack, adding that there could be individuals trapped under the rubble. Social media videos, purportedly…
Read More » - World News
NATO launches largest air force exercise with 250 aircraft, 10,000 personnel
In an unprecedented show of unity, NATO has commenced its largest-ever air force deployment exercise, involving 25 member and partner countries. The German Air Force-led “Air Defender 23” exercises began on Monday, with approximately 250 military aircraft and up to 10,000 service members taking part. The drills are designed to improve interoperability and preparedness of NATO air forces in crisis…
Read More » - World News
Ukraine recaptures villages amid rainfall, Russia enlists Chechen forces
In the midst of heavy rainfall and fierce combat, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported progress and losses inflicted on Russian forces. Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar announced that the Ukrainian military had recaptured seven villages, covering an area of 90 square kilometres (35 sq miles) in eastern Ukraine. In contrast, Russia’s defence ministry did not acknowledge any Ukrainian advancements, stating…
Read More » - World News
PN coalition may seize control in Malaysia with ex-Umno members’ support
Perikatan Nasional (PN), a Malaysian political coalition, may seize control of Negeri Sembilan and Selangor from the Pakatan Harapan (PH) coalition in the upcoming state elections, according to PAS spiritual adviser Datuk Hashim Jasin. He suggests that this could be achieved if former Umno members Khairy Jamaluddin and Tan Sri Noh Omar join PN. Hashim also claimed that another suspended…
Read More » - World News
PM Anwar urges faster repairs for dilapidated schools, health clinics
In Putrajaya, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim expressed his dissatisfaction with the slow progress of small-scale projects, such as the repair of dilapidated schools and health clinics, urging for the process to be accelerated. In November last year, the government announced that all such facilities should be repaired, with work to be completed this year. However, the implementation has been less…
Read More » - World News
South Korean teen questioned for rocking high-speed railway
South Korean police are set to question a teenager for allegedly placing a large rock, the size of a brick, on a high-speed railway last week. The incident took place at Singyeongju Station in Gyeongju, North Gyeongsang province, where a rail traffic controller noticed the individual trespassing in the restricted area via CCTV cameras. Local reports claim the teenager admitted…
Read More » - Food
5 restaurants in Ekkamai you shouldn’t miss
Ekkamai is the sparkling gem of Bangkok’s eastern side that never ceases to amaze both locals and visitors alike. With its enchanting fusion of cultures and characterful food finds, Ekkamai is undoubtedly a dream come true for every foodie who dares to explore its vibrant landscape. Picture yourself strolling down bustling streets, surrounded by the heady aroma of delectable dishes,…
Read More » - South Thailand News
Thailand investigates activists seeking Muslim Patani State referendum
Security agencies in Thailand are investigating a group of activists advocating for a public referendum on the creation of an independent Muslim “Patani State” in the country’s southern region. The National Security Council (NSC) stated that the Internal Security Operation Command (Isoc) Region 4 Forward Office and Provincial Police Region 9 are examining the group’s activities and monitoring its social…
Read More » - Thailand News
Sand and screens: Pattaya Film Festival makes waves with free beachfront cinema
The Pattaya Film Festival 2023 is set to captivate cinephiles with its unique offering of free entry to watch movies on Pattaya Beach from June 16 to 19. This groundbreaking event marks the festival’s first venture into transforming the beach into an enchanting outdoor cinema. With a clear vision of becoming a member of the prestigious UNESCO Creative Cities Network…
Read More » - Thailand News
Island visitors seek fortune with auspicious lottery numbers
Tourists flocked to Kham Chanod Wang Nakin island in Udon Thani to seek good fortune with auspicious numbers before the lottery draw, while red candle wax revealed beautiful digits akin to the lucky numbers on ceremonial candles. The island is located in the Ban Dung district. Yesterday, it was reported that a large number of tourists visited the ceremonial ground…
Read More » - Crime News
Chiang Mai Police arrest gang after fatal stabbing at traditional dance event
Police in San Kamphaeng, Chiang Mai province, apprehended all four suspects involved in a brutal attack that left a 16 year old boy killed. The investigators have completed the arrest of the gang members, including 24 year old Thanakorn, who is accused of stabbing the victim. The deceased had been attending a traditional dance event with his girlfriend and friends…
Read More » - Thailand News
Stepping for a cause: Brit expat’s 1,050km stroll from Pattaya to Phuket raises 1 million baht for abused children
British expat James Lee Valentine demonstrated the power of determination and charity by completing a 1,050 kilometre walk from Pattaya to Phuket in Thailand. The walk aimed to raise 1 million baht for Take Care Kids, a children’s foundation based in Pattaya that supports underprivileged children who have suffered abuse. The 59 year old, who has two children himself, was…
Read More » - Thailand News
Udon Thani woman abuses son, commits suicide after heavy alcohol consumption
Yesterday, a tragic incident occurred in the Nong Na Charoen Village, Udon Thani province, where a 49 year old woman heavily consumed alcohol, assaulted her 14 year old son, and then committed suicide. Her family performed the last rites, while the villagers believed the funeral should be carried out immediately. Today, reporters visited the Wat Nong Na Choren temple where…
Read More » - World News
Child’s innocent blunder sparks debate on teaching kids proper crush-etiquette
A young boy’s innocent expression of affection towards his father’s female colleague has prompted online discussions about the importance of teaching children appropriate behaviour. The event happened in China as the boy, around 3-4 years old, encountered the attractive co-worker during a visit to his father’s office and, filled with joy, hugged and attempted to kiss her. The pretty woman,…
Read More » - World News
Woman trades 2 houses for ancient inkwell dish worth millions in baht
A young woman surprised Chinese television viewers when she brought an unremarkable ‘brick’ or ‘inkwell dish‘ for appraisal, which turned out to be a valuable artifact. The show’s experts stunned the audience with their evaluation of the item, which was worth far more than anyone expected. Over the past few years in China, there has been a surge of interest…
Read More » - World News
Malaysian groom burries mum, marries same day: TikTok video goes viral
A Malaysian groom faced a heart-wrenching day as he lost his mother and got married on the same day. Ikmal and his bride, Ianna Bahari, held his mother’s funeral in the morning and then proceeded with their wedding ceremony in the evening. Ianna shared the gut-wrenching experience on TikTok, explaining that she and Ikmal had initially planned their wedding for…
Read More » - World News
UK expands pardon scheme for same-sex convictions to include women
The UK government has expanded its Disregards and Pardons Scheme, enabling women convicted of offences relating to same-sex activity to apply for the removal of their convictions. Launched in 2012 for England and Wales, the scheme initially only applied to men and specific offences. Now, anyone convicted or cautioned under former laws related to same-sex activity can submit an application.…
Read More » - World News
UK expands pardon scheme for historical gay convictions
The UK government has expanded its rules to pardon more individuals with historical convictions related to homosexuality. Starting this week, those who were convicted or cautioned for offences linked to same-sex activities that have since been abolished can apply to have their records expunged. This change will enable more veterans to apply for the removal of convictions that were brought…
Read More » - World News
Anwar Ibrahim addresses maritime border deal, hydrogen economy in Parliament
Today, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is set to address the Malaysian Parliament regarding the recently signed maritime border agreement between Malaysia and Indonesia. The Prime Minister will be responding to questions from Takiyuddin Hassan, who is seeking assurance that the agreement will not negatively affect Malaysia’s sovereignty or long-term maritime economic activities. In addition, Noraini Ahmad will be questioning the…
Read More » - World News
Malaysia to replace nearly expired Covid vaccines with 2.7m new doses
Malaysia is set to receive 2.7 million doses of the new generation bivalent Covid-19 vaccines to replace the nearly expired stock held by the Ministry of Health (MoH). Deputy Health Minister Lukanisman Awang Sauni revealed that, based on current data, only 2.5% of the population have received the second booster shot, leading to the possibility of having to dispose of…
Read More » - World News
Malaysia targets 200 firms for 20,000 school leavers’ skills programme
The Malaysian government is targeting the participation of 200 companies in its Academy in Industry programme by the end of this year. The initiative aims to train 20,000 school leavers and equip them with the necessary skills to become skilled workers. Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli explained that the programme will provide Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) school-leavers with 18 months of…
Read More » - World News
Personal assistant charged with salesgirl murder in Kota Kinabalu
A personal assistant working for an international company has been charged with the murder of a salesgirl in Kota Kinabalu last month. Chung King Fung, 30, appeared before magistrate Lovely Natasha Charles, but no plea was recorded. He is accused of murdering Nurul Ain Silien, 21, at a shop within a shopping complex between noon and 12:20pm on May 29.…
Read More » - World News
Sarawak deputy minister proposes film academy to boost local talent
The possibility of establishing a film academy in Sarawak has been proposed by the deputy minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak, Sebastian Ting. The idea aims to encourage skilled Sarawakians to venture into the film industry and provide them with diplomas or certificates upon graduation. During a press conference on the Sixth Asean International Film Festival and…
Read More » - World News
Family slams police inaction before daughter’s murder by ex-partner
The family of Nurul Ain Silien, who was tragically killed by her ex-partner in a shopping mall in Kota Kinabalu, has expressed their disappointment with the police’s handling of the case prior to the murder. Nurul’s mother, Siti Aminah Jabar Khan, a Warisan supreme council member, reported that they had lodged a complaint at the Alamesra police station on May…
Read More » - World News
Hay fever advice page visits triple as UK pollen count soars
A surge in hay fever sufferers seeking advice on the NHS website has been recorded, with over 122,650 visitors last week as pollen counts reached some of the highest levels this year. According to NHS England, the number of weekly visitors to the hay fever advice pages has tripled in the past five weeks, with the site receiving one visit…
Read More » - World News
COVID inquiry begins: Baroness Hallett vows to focus on 226,000 victims
The COVID inquiry is set to commence its initial public hearings today, with Baroness Hallett, a retired judge and the inquiry’s chair, delivering an opening statement. The hearings will also feature a film containing testimonies from grieving families, which has been deemed challenging to view. Baroness Hallett has pledged to centre the investigation around the 226,000 pandemic victims when examining…
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