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World News
Malaysia’s Covid-19 vaccine procurement bypassed Attorney General’s approval
The Prime Minister of Malaysia, Anwar Ibrahim, has disclosed that certain sections of the Covid-19 vaccine procurement agreement were not referred to the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC). Anwar’s statement comes after he previously mentioned “irregularities” in Malaysia’s multi-billion-ringgit purchase of Covid-19 vaccines. The Prime Minister addressed the issue during a parliamentary session, in response to a question raised by Tanjong…
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Thailand News
Thai economy set for boost as tourism and domestic consumption surge
The Thai economy is predicted to experience a boost in the second half of the year, driven by a surge in tourism and domestic consumption, according to the Economic Intelligence Service (EIS) of the Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI). However, ongoing political instability remains a factor to watch. The EIS forecasts that Chinese tourist arrivals in Thailand will increase by…
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Thailand News
Myawaddy suffers as Thailand ceases electricity supply
Myawaddy has experienced a significant impact on its electricity supply after Thailand’s Provincial Electricity Authority ceased providing power on June 6, following the expiration of a contract with the Myanmar government. While the border in the Mae Sot district of Tak remains open for people and cargo, the electricity cut has had varying effects on different groups within Myawaddy. Chinese…
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World News
India denies threatening Twitter with shutdown over farmers’ protest accounts
Twitter faced threats of shutdown and employee raids from the Indian government if it did not comply with orders to restrict accounts, according to the company’s co-founder Jack Dorsey. The Indian government has dismissed these claims as “outright lies.” Dorsey, who stepped down as Twitter CEO in 2021, revealed on Monday that India had threatened the company with a shutdown…
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World News
Malaysia’s Covid restrictions slammed for political control, rights violations
Restrictions implemented by the former Malaysian Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin’s administration to combat Covid-19 have been criticised by human rights group Suara Rakyat Malaysia (Suaram) for helping the government maintain control of Putrajaya. Ilaiya Barathi Panneerselvam, from the Women’s Aid Organisation (WAO), presented the report’s findings and accused Muhyiddin and his Cabinet of using the state of emergency…
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Crime News
Thai police probe truck sticker bribery scandal: 46 types identified
There’s been a new development in Thailand’s truck sticker bribery scandal. The inspector-general of the Royal Thai Police (RTP) Office will likely take 15 days to determine who will be subjected to a disciplinary investigation in connection with the scandal. Pol. Gen. Visanu Prasartthong-osoth announced that an inquiry is being conducted by his office, led by Pol. Lt. Gen. Ditsapoj…
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Phuket News
Tragic twist in paradise: Belarusian man found ‘hanging’ from a tree near Thai dam
A 26 year old Belarusian man was found dead hanging from a tree near a dam in Karon, West Thailand. The man, identified as Alexander Zapronenko, had been staying with a friend in a nearby rented accommodation at Moo1, Patak Soi 20. His body was discovered after he had been missing for two days when a local stray dog appeared…
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Thailand News
Senate proposes Section 112 debate amid Thai tensions
In an effort to seek a political compromise, the Senate has put forth a proposition for a deliberation on Section 112 of the Criminal Code, commonly referred to as the lese majeste law. This move comes in response to a petition submitted by a pro-royalist group advocating for the preservation of the existing law. However, apprehensions have arisen within the…
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World News
Malaysia comedy club owner awaits decision on improper network use charges
The Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC) in Malaysia is still considering the third representation submitted by Crackhouse comedy club owner Mohamad Rizal Van Geyzel, who is facing three charges of improper use of network facilities. Deputy public prosecutor Noor Haslinda Che Seman informed Sessions Court Judge Priscilla Hemamalini Nadarajan that the AGC had received the representation on June 7, but a…
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World News
Malaysia targets quality investments, complex products to boost trade growth
Malaysia is focusing on attracting quality investments and manufacturing more complex products to manage risks to trade growth, according to Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz. He emphasised the importance of creating an environment that attracts the right kind of investments, fostering industrial development, and producing products with higher complexity scores. Tengku Zafrul said, “It is only…
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World News
Twitter 2.0: CEO Yaccarino unveils plan to revive platform
Linda Yaccarino, the new CEO of Twitter, has unveiled her ambitious plan for “Twitter 2.0,” aiming to transform the platform into a global town square and a reliable source of real-time information. Yaccarino took over the role from Elon Musk, who had implemented several controversial changes since acquiring the company in October 2022. The former NBC Universal marketing executive acknowledged…
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World News
Pure Life Society appoints human rights advocate Ambiga Sreenevasan president
The Pure Life Society has announced the appointment of Datuk Ambiga Sreenevasan as its new president, following the recent death of Datin Paduka Dr A. Mangalam. The news was shared by Hindu Sevai Sangam in a congratulatory Facebook post, which wished Ambiga strength and determination in her new role. Ambiga, 67 years old, has an impressive background as a lawyer…
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World News
Malaysia PM defends Allah statements, seeks Rulers’ Council audience
The Prime Minister of Malaysia, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, has defended his recent statements in Parliament regarding the usage of the word “Allah” and his government’s request for an audience with the Conference of Rulers on the matter. This comes after an Opposition MP accused him of misleading Parliament and attempted to refer him for disciplinary action. Anwar clarified that…
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World News
Sarawak launches major offshore carbon capture project, eyes 3.3m tonne reduction
The Sarawak government in Malaysia has announced the launch of a carbon capture storage (CCS) project in the Kasawari fields, off the coast of Sarawak, through the state-owned Sarawak Petroleum Berhad (Petros). Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg stated that the project is expected to reduce up to 3.3 million tonnes of carbon dioxide annually, making it one of…
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World News
Malaysia thwarts buffalo meat import with misleading halal certificate
An attempt to import approximately 740 kilograms of buffalo meat valued at US$2,800 was thwarted by the Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Service Department (Maqis) at Pasir Gudang Port. The meat, originating from India, was discovered in 37 boxes during an inspection. Upon further examination, Maqis officers found discrepancies between the information on the halal certificate and the actual details of…
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World News
Malaysia-Indonesia maritime border deal safeguards sovereignty
The Prime Minister of Malaysia, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, has reassured the public that the newly signed Malaysia-Indonesia maritime border agreement does not compromise the nation’s sovereignty or interests. He emphasised that Malaysia would never sacrifice its sovereignty, and the agreement was carefully considered, involving input from relevant parties and only covering areas agreed upon by both countries. Anwar Ibrahim…
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Thailand News
Thai police chief revamps recruitment after promotion scandal
In response to concerns over the rapid promotion of a young female police officer and the involvement of high-profile individuals and celebrities in the commissioned officer application process, Thailand’s national police chief, General Damrongsak Kittiprapas, ordered amendments to the recruitment procedure. National police spokesperson Lieutenant General Archayon Kraithong stated that General Damrongsak has instructed Lieutenant General Kittirat Phanphet to establish…
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Thailand News
Ride of deceit: Bangkok taxi driver steals 1.2 million baht from dozing Japanese passenger
Bangkok Police arrested another bad boy taxi driver who stole over 1.2 million baht from a Japanese passenger while the victim fell asleep during the journey. This is one of the far-too-many-to-mention stories concerning Bangkok taxi drivers who continue to undermine the good name of Thailand with their scams, schemes, and stealing. The theft occurred in the early morning of…
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World News
Malaysia greenlights AI ChatGPT in universities with strict guidelines
Malaysia has decided not to ban the use of AI-driven ChatGPT in higher education institutions, as long as its usage complies with the established guidelines. Higher Education Minister Mohamed Khaled Nordin stated that a set of guidelines has been issued and distributed to local universities, outlining the appropriate and inappropriate situations for ChatGPT usage. The minister acknowledged that the use…
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Politics News
NACC warns over 100 MPs yet to submit wealth declaration
According to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), over 100 current and former MPs, including Move Forward Party (MFP) leader Pita Limjaroenrat, have not yet submitted their wealth declaration following the House dissolution in March, as mandated by law. Since the House was dissolved on March 20, approximately 70% of the 500 MPs, or 384 members, have submitted their assets and…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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