Row over contact-tracing app threatens to blow hole in Thailand’s COVID defence

13 Sept 08:37 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's MorChana contact-tracing app faces scrutiny over its efficacy and transparency after the government abruptly took full control from its volunteer developers.
The handover sparked concerns about government interference and potential ineffectiveness, with critics arguing the app becomes 'useless' without proper integration of official infection data, prompting some users to abandon it.
Despite government assurances of enhanced privacy and scalability due to increased users, the underlying conflict between the original developers and authorities threatens public trust and the app's crucial role in the nation's COVID-19 response.

Six injured after car smashes into On Nut shopping mall

Yesterday 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.