Tokyo crowds revel as cherry blossoms reach full bloom

15 Sept 03:30 Key points summarised by AI

Tokyo's iconic cherry blossoms (sakura) have reached full bloom, drawing large crowds of locals and international tourists to enjoy the vibrant scenery.
The full bloom arrived later than average this year due to colder weather, though the Japanese Meteorological Agency notes a long-term trend of earlier blooms driven by climate change.
Sakura season holds deep cultural significance in Japan, symbolizing new beginnings and the transient nature of life, coinciding with the start of the new fiscal year.
The economic impact of the cherry blossom season is substantial, estimated at 1.1 trillion yen ($7.3 billion) this year, boosting tourism and local spending.

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.