Government House bans a female Thai reporter for alleged cultural faux pas

13 Sept 10:39 Key points summarised by AI

Government House temporarily banned a Thai reporter, working for a Japanese news agency, following an incident during a press conference.
The initial incident involved Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha politely asking the reporter to adjust her 'inappropriate' cross-legged posture, which had her foot pointing at the podium.
Officials clarified that the ban was not due to her posture or tough questions, but rather her alleged 'distortion of facts' about the working environment, which she had posted on social media.
The Thai Journalists Association noted that while sitting cross-legged is common, Thai custom still emphasizes respect for senior figures through proper conduct and attire.
The reporter had previously complained on social media about journalists being kept waiting outside the press conference venue.

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.