Facial ID scanning for phone users in deep South to start November 1st

13 Sept 12:19 Key points summarised by AI

Starting November 1st, mobile phone users in Thailand's deep South must register SIM cards and undergo facial ID scanning to maintain mobile service.
The measure, enforced by ISOC, aims to prevent identity theft for financial fraud and the use of unregistered SIM cards in explosive devices, citing a past bombing incident.
This new identification requirement applies uniformly to both civilians and officials within the specified southern provinces and districts.
Human rights advocacy groups and academics have criticized the policy as an intrusion into privacy, suggesting that user consent should be mandatory for facial image scanning.

Malaysia appoints new facilitator for Thai-BRN peace talks

Today 12:16 Key points summarised by AI

Malaysia has appointed retired Lt-General Datuk Ahmad Norihan bin Jalal as the new facilitator for peace talks between the Thai government and the Barisan Revolusi Nasional (BRN).
Datuk Ahmad previously served as head of Malaysia’s national intelligence agency and has over 33 years of military experience, bringing extensive expertise in strategic intelligence.
The Malaysian government expressed confidence that his appointment will strengthen its role in facilitating the peace talks, earn trust from all parties, and bring new momentum to achieving lasting peace in southern Thailand.