Bang Saen set for major make-over to become a town for the elderly

13 Sept 23:19 Key points summarised by AI

Bang Saen, a seaside town near Bangkok, is set for a significant make-over to transform into a community tailored for an aging society, collaborating with Japan's Okura Company for expertise.
Key infrastructure developments include reclaiming 30 meters of Wonnapa beach along its 700-meter length at an estimated cost of 600 million baht, and dividing the town into four conceptual zones: residential, commercial/services, green, and family activities.
Specific projects involve developing a seafood market, revamping the landscape near Burapha University to improve traffic, and constructing a condominium for elderly people expected to open late next year.
All development projects will be funded by municipal revenues, estimated at 300 million baht annually, with the mayor expecting the new initiatives to increase Bang Saen's annual revenues by about 20%.

Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties

Today 16:46 Key points summarised by AI

A dinner between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham party leaders sparked rumors of a potential merger, though Bhumjaithai's leader, Anutin, downplayed it as a casual meal.
The meeting is widely interpreted as a strategic message from Bhumjaithai to the Pheu Thai party, signaling alternative support ahead of an upcoming no-confidence debate.
Thailand's Constitution (Section 99) currently prohibits direct mergers of parties with sitting MPs during the House's term, a rule designed to prevent the 'buying and selling' of MPs.
While direct mergers are restricted, MPs can still switch parties if dismissed by a three-fourths party vote or if their party dissolves, allowing for indirect political realignments.
Kla Tham's voting behavior in the censure debate will demonstrate its loyalty to the government, potentially influencing future political dynamics despite current merger restrictions.