“Sak Surin” and awareness of elephant welfare

14 Sept 03:12 Key points summarised by AI

The return of ailing Thai elephant “Sak Surin” from Sri Lanka after 22 years has sparked public demand for the government to repatriate other Thai elephants sent abroad and end the practice of using them as "goodwill ambassadors."
Historically, Thailand sent elephants as diplomatic gifts to strengthen bilateral relationships, a practice that continued into modern times with countries like Sri Lanka, Denmark, and Japan, but is now widely criticized.
Animal welfare advocates, including Edwin Wiek and Soraida Salwala, strongly condemn the practice, citing neglect and mistreatment of elephants sent abroad, and advocate for their immediate repatriation and an end to their exploitation.
While the Thai government currently has no plans to send more elephants abroad, experts emphasize the critical need for clearer, more enforceable animal welfare laws in Thailand to ensure the well-being of these national symbols.

Nationwide crackdown launched on illegal nominee shareholders and land holdings

Yesterday 15:20 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul initiated a nationwide crackdown on illegal Thai nominee shareholders in foreign-run businesses and land holdings to safeguard national interests.
The government will integrate efforts across all relevant agencies to target illicit foreign operations, forced sales of illegally acquired property, and high-risk land ownership schemes.
Key strategies include auditing suspect land and building holdings, establishing a long-term monitoring system, and cross-referencing data from various authorities to trace ultimate beneficial owners.
Prime Minister Anutin emphasized that no influential figures or corrupt officials are above the law, promising straightforward prosecution, asset seizures, and protection for enforcing officers.
Beyond land ownership, the integrated crackdown will also extend to tackle transnational crimes, including drug and human trafficking.