Pandemic to throw millions into poverty: World Bank

13 Sept 12:32 Key points summarised by AI

The World Bank projects the coronavirus pandemic will sharply slow economic growth in developing East Asia, the Pacific, and China, pushing millions into poverty.
Growth forecasts for developing economies in the region are drastically cut to 2.1% (baseline) from 5.8% in 2019, with China's growth potentially slowing to 0.1% in a lower-case scenario.
The crisis is expected to prevent nearly 24 million people from escaping poverty in 2020, and could even increase poverty by about 11 million in a more severe economic downturn.
The World Bank urges countries to invest in healthcare capacity, implement targeted fiscal measures, ease credit for households and firms, and foster international cooperation to mitigate the immediate impacts and ensure financial stability.

Six injured after car smashes into On Nut shopping mall

Today 22:44 Key points summarised by AI

A 67-year-old woman drove her car through the glass frontage of a Bangkok shopping mall, injuring six people, including a six-year-old girl.
The driver claimed she accidentally pressed the accelerator instead of the brake after being startled, causing the vehicle to surge forward.
She apologized to the victims, promising insurance coverage and additional financial aid, while police continue to gather statements before filing charges.