Twenty years after Boxing Day tsunami, Thailand’s disaster defences crumbling

12 Sept 07:27 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's post-2004 tsunami disaster defenses, including early-warning towers, evacuation centers, and drills, have largely deteriorated or been discontinued due to a creeping sense of complacency.
The existing early-warning system is plagued by malfunctions, such as sirens failing or false alarms, and slow repairs, which have significantly eroded public trust in its reliability.
Experts acknowledge improvements but stress the urgent need for faster quake detection and warning systems, along with the designation of secure, high-rise buildings as evacuation centers in vulnerable coastal zones.
Local residents and community leaders advocate for greater community empowerment, calling for decentralization of disaster management duties and budgets, alongside comprehensive training for local rescue and aid efforts.
There is a push to revise the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Act to prioritize proactive prevention and mitigation strategies over a primary focus on post-disaster relief, aiming to reduce future impacts.

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.