AI In-brief 23 Sept 16:42

US-Thailand tree ‘ordination’ ceremony

Tree ordination, or 'buat ton mai', is a Thai Buddhist ceremony where monks symbolically 'ordain' trees with saffron cloth, designating them as 'saint trees' to ensure their protection and promote environmental conservation.
U.S. Ambassador Sean O'Neill and Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt jointly performed this ceremony on a century-old rain tree at the U.S. Ambassador's residence, marking a significant diplomatic and environmental collaboration.
This event underscores the enduring 193-year relationship between Thailand and the U.S., symbolizing a shared commitment to preserving green spaces and respecting nature within urban environments.
Both officials emphasized the critical role of urban trees; the Governor detailed Bangkok's ambitious policy to plant millions more and register old trees, reinforcing the ceremony's message for environmental awareness and action.

AI In-brief Today 11:46

Two illegal entertainment venues in Phuket raided in nominee crackdown

Joint forces raided two Phuket entertainment venues, 'CLC Restaurant Phuket' and 'The Black Bar', for operating without proper licenses and violating labor laws.
Investigators discovered 'CLC Restaurant Phuket' was likely a nominee business, with Ukrainian investors allegedly using a Thai woman as a front.
Both establishments face charges under the Entertainment Venue Act, Alcoholic Beverage Control Act, and Royal Decree on managing foreign workers, with authorities seeking a five-year closure order.