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New Vaccination Drive Aims to Protect Lao Children from Measles, Rubella

New Vaccination Drive Aims to Protect Lao Children from Measles, Rubella
A Lao nurse injecting a vaccine into a baby (photo credit: AKarki/UNICEF)

The Lao Ministry of Health is launching a vaccination campaign against rubella and measles, from 20 to 31 May. The project aims to promote the importance of vaccination to the saving lives of children, especially those under 5 years of age.

Inadequate Minimum Wage Deepens Economic Woes in Laos, Fueling Labor Shortages, School Dropouts

Laos is grappling with growing economic and societal challenges as the current minimum wage, deemed inadequate by both workers and business owners, exacerbates labor shortages and increases school dropout rates nationwide.

Explore Copenhagen’s Culinary Gem: Khun Juk Oriental, Winner of the 2023 Thai Select Signature Award and Esteemed Taittinger Ambassador


COPENHAGEN, DENMARK – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 May 2024 – Khun Juk Oriental, honored with the prestigious 2023 Thai Select Signature Award from the Royal Thai Government and partnership with Champagne Taittinger, epitomizes culinary excellence by delivering an exceptional Thai dining experience. These recognitions, from both the Royal Thai Government for the Thai Select Signature award and the esteemed Champagne Taittinger, underscore Khun Juk Oriental’s dedication to excellence and innovation in gastronomy.

Blending the bold flavors of Thailand with the luxurious French champagne, the restaurant caters to both local and international patrons seeking a memorable gastronomic journey.

The Inspirational Journey of a Star Chef

At the heart of Khun Juk Oriental is Chef Charoon Chareonrum, whose remarkable journey from humble beginnings in a small province of Buriram, Thailand to establishing the renowned Thai restaurant in Copenhagen is nothing short of inspiring. His unwavering dedication to the culinary arts is reflected in his philosophy: “Good food is the foundation of true happiness.” Having honed his skills through apprenticeships at esteemed establishments such as the Hotel de Rhone in Geneva and the Hyatt Hotel in Paris, Chef Chareonrum launched Khun Juk Oriental in 1999, blending Eastern flavors with Western culinary techniques.

Preserving Authenticity in a New Landscape

Khun Juk Oriental stands out for its ability to strike a delicate balance between traditional Thai flavors and local preferences, while preserving the authenticity of its dishes. Overcoming challenges such as ingredient sourcing, the restaurant remains committed to offering an authentic Thai dining experience. Embracing the Thai concept of “Sanook,” which translates to “fun,” Khun Juk Oriental creates a welcoming environment where diners can enjoy a diverse menu featuring fusion dishes and seasonal specials, ensuring each visit is a delicious adventure.

Hashtag: #KhunJukOriental



The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Khun Juk Oriental

Nestled in a tranquil corner of Copenhagen’s bustling Nyhavn area, the restaurant expertly fuses Western culinary techniques with Eastern flavors, creating a unique dining experience. The establishment provides a serene and private ambiance suitable for both small and large gatherings.

Location:
Nyhavn 63D, 1051 Copenhagen K
Tel: +45 33 32 30 50

Award-winning Signature Dishes include Grilled Gambas Shrimp, Pan-Sautéed Beef or Chicken Breast, Noodle Soup with Chicken and Thai Spinach, Roasted Noodles with Peanuts and Tiger Prawns, and Stir-fried Chicken with Cashew Nuts

MoneyHero Group Named Among the HR Asia Best Companies to Work for in Asia, Hong Kong 2024


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 May 2024 – MoneyHero Limited (NASDAQ: MNY) (“MoneyHero” or the “Company”), a market-leading personal finance and digital insurance aggregation and comparison platform in Greater Southeast Asia, has been honoured at the ‘Best Companies to Work for in Asia, Hong Kong 2024″ awards organized by HR Asia, a leading publication in the human resources industry.

MoneyHero Group is named among the Best Companies to Work for in Asia, Hong Kong 2024
MoneyHero Group is named among the Best Companies to Work for in Asia, Hong Kong 2024

MoneyHero received this recognition for its exceptional work environment, which is a testament to the company’s ongoing commitment and dedication to fostering a vibrant organisational culture that attracts top talent and fosters professional development.

With the theme of ‘Together We Thrive: The Definitive Z Choice’, the 2024 awards focused on the efforts of companies who are leading the charge in creating a harmonious and inclusive workplace that values the strengths of all generations. This year, 53 companies were honoured with the top titles after careful evaluation by a professional panel of judges through conducting extensive employee surveys.

“Our employees have been the primary drivers of our success over the past ten years, and we are immensely proud of the culture that we have created. This award is dedicated to our team who live our values every single day,” said Rohith Murthy, Chief Executive Officer at MoneyHero Group. “MoneyHero Group is a purpose-driven organisation and we believe that a fulfilling career is fueled by purpose. Our employees embody our purpose to drive meaningful change in personal finance for millions of people in the region. This focus on impact, coupled with our collaborative culture and commitment to professional development, is what attracts top talent.”

MoneyHero places the highest value on talent, and welcomes people who can contribute their skills and experience, as well as individuals coming from different backgrounds and professions who want to join and grow their careers. To foster an inclusive and flexible work environment, the company implements the hybrid workplace and introduces the international remote work program that enables employees to work from any location they choose.

For more information about MoneyHero, including information for investors and learning about career opportunities, please visit www.MoneyHeroGroup.com.
Hashtag: #MoneyHero

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About MoneyHero Group

(NASDAQ: ), formerly known as Hyphen Group or CompareAsia Group, is a market leader in the online personal finance and digital insurance aggregation and comparison sector in Greater Southeast Asia. The Company operates in Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, the Philippines, and Malaysia with respective brands for each local market. Its brand portfolio includes B2C platforms MoneyHero, SingSaver, Money101, CompareHero, Moneymax, and Seedly, as well as the B2B platform and Creatory. MoneyHero currently managed 279 commercial partner relationships and services 8.7 million Monthly Unique Users across its platform for the 12 months ended December 31, 2023. The Company’s backers include Peter Thiel—co-founder of PayPal, Palantir Technologies, and the Founders Fund—and Hong Kong businessman, Richard Li, the founder and chairman of Pacific Century Group. To learn more about MoneyHero and how the innovative fintech company is driving APAC’s digital economy, please visit .

Saudi Tadawul Group and Sahm Capital to collaborate on ‘Invest Wisely Program’


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 May 2024 – Sahm Capital, the leading all-in-one online brokerage in the Kingdom, is excited to announce its sponsorship with the Saudi Tadawul Group for the highly anticipated “Invest Wisely Program.” The announcement was made during the Capital Markets Forum in Hong Kong, where industry leaders gathered to discuss the future of global capital flows.

The sponsorship for “Invest Wisely Program” is set to launch in the second half of 2024. It is a groundbreaking financial literacy initiative designed to empower participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful investors. Through a dynamic virtual platform, participants will have the opportunity to learn, engage, practice, and compete in a simulated trading environment that mirrors the real-life experience of stock market trading.

Hadeel Bedeeri, the General Manager of Sahm Capital, expressed her enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “As the first all-in-one online brokerage in the Kingdom, this program aligns perfectly with Sahm Capital’s commitment to raising awareness and knowledge among existing and potential investors. As Saudi Arabia continues its journey towards a more institutionalized market with increasing participation, well-informed and equipped investors will be empowered to make more informed investment decisions.”

The comprehensive “Invest Wisely Program” encompasses investment workshops, access to learning materials, and a cutting-edge trading simulation platform that allows participants to create virtual portfolios while gaining invaluable experience trading on the Saudi Exchange. Additionally, a competition will provide an opportunity for participants to showcase their trading skills and knowledge, with prizes generously sponsored by Sahm Capital.

Established in 2022, Sahm Capital has swiftly established itself as a pioneer in the online brokerage industry. In October 2023, Sahm Capital received final approval from the Capital Market Authority (CMA) to conduct dealing, advising, and custody services in Saudi Arabia, making it the first international online brokerage firm to offer its services in the country.

In December 2023, Sahm Capital launched the Sahm App, which has quickly gained popularity and now ranks among the top three free financial apps in Google Play. The Sahm App stands out as the first application in the Kingdom to offer seamless one-click switching between Saudi and U.S. stock accounts in real time, enabling users to engage in trading and currency conversion effortlessly.

Hashtag: #Brokerage #Sahm

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Saudi Tadawul Group:

Founded in 2021 and headquartered in Riyadh, Saudi Tadawul Group is a holding company with a portfolio of four integrated subsidiaries: the Saudi Exchange, one of the largest 10 stock exchanges in the world by market capitalization, the Securities Clearing Center Company (Muqassa), the Securities Depository Center Company (Edaa), and Wamid, an innovative applied technology services business. Saudi Tadawul Group was established as part of a continuous development program focused on enhancing the capital market and its infrastructure, attracting foreign investments, and diversifying the Saudi economy. The Group reinforces Saudi Arabia’s position as an attractive global investment destination and the gateway to the MENA region.
Saudi Tadawul Group supports the development of an advanced capital market in Saudi Arabia; one of the pillars of the Financial Sector Development Program (FSDP), a Saudi Vision 2030 realization program.

Sahm Capital

Registered in Riyadh, Sahm Capital holds licenses (22251-25) from the Capital Market Authority (CMA) to conduct Dealing, Advising, and Custody services in KSA, making it the first international online brokerage firm to provide online brokerage services in KSA. The company is also a registered member of the Saudi Exchange, as well as its affiliates, the Securities Depository Center Company (Edaa) and the Securities Clearing Center Company (Muqassa). For more information about Sahm, please visit:

Mr. Kelvin Pooh, Group CEO of the Eagle Renewable Energy (Shanghai) Co., Ltd., Seizes Victory as a Master Entrepreneur at the Asia Pacific Enterprise Awards 2024 China


SHANGHAI, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 May 2024 – The Asia Pacific Enterprise Awards (APEA) 2024 China spotlights revisionist companies and entrepreneurs that have introduced initiatives and strategies aimed at nurturing an inclusive entrepreneurial community; these trendsetters of Asia’s business ecosystem champion inclusivity and break barriers for underrepresented groups. Organized by the leading regional NGO Enterprise Asia, the APEA’s objective is to foster the continuity of sustainable entrepreneurial growth in Asian economies.

Mr. Kelvin Pooh, Group CEO of the Eagle Renewable Energy (Shanghai) Co., Ltd., is among the award recipients under the Master Entrepreneur category. As the current Founder, Executive Director, and CEO of Singapore’s Eagle Renewable Energy (Shanghai) Co., Ltd, he has over 20 years of experience in entrepreneurship and business operation management.

From 2020 to 2023, Mr. Kelvin Pooh led the company’s professional design, technical, and engineering team to not only complete the investment and construction of a 2.953 MW distributed photovoltaic power station in Vietnam but also the Suzhou 4 MW distributed photovoltaic project which was jointly invested with Ganghua New Energy Group. Other similar new energy power station projects were also successfully signed and launched, including the 300 MW centralized agricultural-photovoltaic project in Yangchun, Guangdong which was executed on a provincial level. Tangentially, the company has also launched its own photovoltaic module brand, EagleRE.

It is Mr. Kelvin Pooh’s motto to always keep up with the times, create a win-win situation together, and continuously work towards serving the public. When discussing the major challenges faced by entrepreneurs, Mr. Kelvin Pooh is very concerned about market changes and attaches great importance to the maintenance of the funding chain. He would like to advise other entrepreneurs to adapt to the market with keen operational skills and constantly make adjustments, adjusting to the interests of key entities like banks, financial institutions, suppliers, and partners.

Mr. Kelvin Pooh hopes to make Eagle Renewable Energy (Shanghai) Co., Ltd become a new energy platform company in the Asia-Pacific region; with the continuous promotion of renewable energy and new technologies. This will also contribute to the pursuit of global carbon neutrality and is also a development model in which enterprises and social responsibilities go hand in hand.

Hashtag: #Business #Entrepreneurship #BusinessAwards #Awards #Corporate #CorporateAwards

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Enterprise Asia

Enterprise Asia is a non-governmental organization in pursuit of creating an Asia that is rich in entrepreneurship as an engine towards sustainable and progressive economic and social development within a world of economic equality. Its two pillars of existence are an investment in people and responsible entrepreneurship. Enterprise Asia works with governments, NGOs, and other organizations to promote competitiveness and entrepreneurial development, uplift the economic status of people across Asia, and ensure a legacy of hope, innovation, and courage for future generations. Please visit for more information.

Asia Pacific Enterprise Awards (APEA)

Launched in 2007, the Asia Pacific Enterprise Awards is the region’s most prestigious award for outstanding entrepreneurship, continuous innovation, and sustainable leadership. The Award provides a platform for companies and governments to recognize entrepreneurial excellence, hence spurring greater innovation, fair business practices, and growth in entrepreneurship. As a regional award, it groups leading entrepreneurs as a powerful voice for entrepreneurship and serves as a by-invitation-only networking powerhouse. The program has grown to encompass 16 countries/regions and markets all over Asia. For further information, please visit .

Line-up of Exciting Performances By Local Artistes & Budding Talents At Westgate

Week-Long Showcase of Vibrant Performances from 20th to 26th May 2024


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 May 2024 – ‘Take The Stage’ is a week-long event featuring live performances by piano virtuosos and other musical talents in celebration of Panoland’s grand opening of a state-of-the-art showroom in Westgate.

Pianoland Grand Opening at Westgate, “Take The Stage”
Pianoland Grand Opening at Westgate, “Take The Stage”

From the 20th to 26th of May, ‘Take The Stage’ not only celebrates the grand opening of Pianoland’s showroom in Jurong, but also heralds a significant shift in Westgate’s identity. It marks the beginning of an evolution into a vibrant cultural and arts hub, positioned to lead the promotion of the arts within the community. This event aims to foster the appreciation of arts, culture, and music in the heartlands, complementing the development of Jurong into an innovation and high-tech district.

Event Schedule

Monday, May 20, 2024

Time: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Venue: Westgate, Level 2 Atrium
Admission: Free
Michelle, drawing inspiration from renowned artists like Eva Cassidy, Diana Krall, Elton John, Alanis Morisette, Ella Fitzgerald, and Sting, offers a distinctive fusion of genres. With a soul jazz blues undertone, Michelle seamlessly blends individual elements of these musicians, creating a unique and captivating musical experience. Reserve your seats Here.

Time: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Venue: Westgate, Level 2 Atrium
Admission: Free
Enjoy popular Mandarin tunes performed by Chi Sheng, a respected pianist-composer, who has crafted melodies for Mandarin pop artists like Tony Leung and Singaporean singer Maggie Teng and vocal master Aaron Lim, the sole Certified Master Teacher in Estill Voice Training in Singapore. Reserve your seats Here.

Tuesday, May 21, 2024

Time: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Venue: Westgate, Level 2 Atrium
Admission: Free
Namie Rasman, whose musical journey began with singing Jazz Standards for school events in 2015, released “Queenfisher” as part of The Great Singapore Replay Season 2 in January 2020. This track was also featured in Singapore’s National Day Parade 2020. Lee Ann Gie, acclaimed for her collaborations with artists like Benny Golson and Randy Brecker, is known for her work with the Music and Drama Company and Namie and the Waves. Reserve your seats Here.

Wednesday, May 22, 2024 – VESAK DAY

Time: 11:00 AM – 11:45 AM
Venue: Westgate, Level 2 Atrium
Admission: $10
Description: A fun and engaging workshop designed to spark music appreciation in young minds. Suitable for ages 3 and up. Register Here.

Venue: Westgate, Level 2 Atrium
Admission: Free

  • Classical Romantic Lunchtime Soiree featuring Students of Steinway Educational Partner Ouyang Leilei

Time: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Join Ouyang Leilei, a highly qualified and passionate teacher, and her award-winning students for a classy afternoon of classical and jazzy tunes this Vesak Day, showcasing talents who have excelled in international competitions. Reserve your seat Here.

  • Music, Friends & Fun

Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Enjoy a delightful performance by an adorable 7-year-old trio and two award-winning young pianists, featuring fun musical pieces and charming skits performed together on one piano. Reserve your seats Here.

  • Boys of The Pianology

Time: 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
This segment features The Pianology’s “boys gang” showcasing fast, virtuosic pieces, famous classical tunes, and heartfelt melodies, culminating in a highlight two-piano quartet performance. Reserve your seats Here.

  • Students of Steinway Artist Benjamin Loh

Time: 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Steinway Artist and Honorary Professor Benjamin Loh is a successful teacher and performer whose students have won local and international piano competitions and enrolled at prestigious institutions like The Juilliard School, Cleveland Institute of Music, and Mozarteum University. Reserve your seats Here.

  • Students of LASALLE College of the Arts

Time: 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
LASALLE College of the Arts, the highest-ranked institution in Southeast Asia for performing arts, is renowned for producing students who are recognized both locally and internationally as innovators. Come witness these talented musicians who could be the future shapers of the music scene. Reserve your seats Here.

  • Students of Intune Music

Time: 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Intune Music, a local pop music school specializing in singing courses, has quickly garnered numerous accolades, including the Top 500 SME Awards in 2012. It was founded by musicians Peng Chi Sheng and Aaron Lim. Reserve your seats Here.

Time: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Venue: Westgate, Level 2 Atrium
Admission: Free
‘LimTayPeng’ is a Singaporean music trio formed in 2018, featuring lead singers Aaron Matthew Lim and Tay Sia Yeun, and composer-pianist Peng Chi Sheng. The group’s name combines their surnames and is also Hokkien for ‘Drink Iced Milk Tea.’ TAY and LIM regularly serve as guest judges on Mediacorp Channel 8’s 黄金年华 Golden Age Talentime show. Reserve your seat Here.

Thursday, May 23, 2024

  • Pop RnB Piano Jams featuring Owen Li

Time: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Venue: Westgate, Level 2 Atrium
Admission: Free
Owen Li captivates audiences with his multifaceted talent as a singer, songwriter, pianist, arranger, and content creator, transitioning over 19 years from classical pianist to contemporary maestro. His performances at prestigious venues like The Esplanade Concert Hall and Formula 1 Grand Prix 2022 highlight his enduring impact in the music scene. Reserve your seats Here.

  • Rising Stars Series: Musical Stories featuring Students of Pianology

Time: 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Venue: Westgate, Level 2 Atrium
Admission: Free
Embark on a journey through enchanting tales as four young pianists, aged 7 to 12, weave captivating narratives through their musical performances, each piece telling its own unique story. Reserve your seats Here.

  • Classical Repertoire by Young Steinway Artist Jessie M.

Time: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Venue: Westgate, Level 2 Atrium
Admission: Free
At just 17 years old, home-grown pianist Jessie Meng, known as Jessie M, has made a remarkable mark in the music world, becoming the youngest pianist to be named a Young Steinway Artist by the renowned American piano manufacturer Steinway & Sons. Her debut concert at the Victoria Concert Hall in March showcased her exceptional talent and solidified her place among celebrated virtuosos. Reserve your seats Here.

Friday, May 24, 2024

  • Take The Stage: Pianoland Westgate Grand Opening

Time: 11:00 AM – 1:30 PM
Venue: Westgate, Level 2 Atrium
Admission: By Invite Only (Public may spectate)
Classical and pop pianist Sueli Tang, known for her versatility and expressive performances, will kick off the event, followed by a collaborative performance from singer-songwriter Owen Li and artist Kristy Sam. After the ribbon cutting, young vocalist Czarina Oswald-Lim, known for her role as ‘Young Elsa’ in Frozen The Musical on Broadway, will take the stage, followed by the talented piano duo Newton and Newman showcasing their skills in the showroom. Guest-of-Honour Mr. Patrick Tay BBM will officiate the event.

Saturday, May 25, 2024

Time: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Venue: Westgate Level 2 Atrium
Admission: $10
Discover engaging music materials suitable for all learners as author Alice Yap, renowned for works like “Finger Gym” and several other method books, unveils her innovative approach in an interactive workshop designed for both young students and accompanying parents. Register Here.

  • Rising Stars Series: A Classy Afternoon featuring Students of Steinway Educational Partner Winnie Tay

Time: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Venue: Westgate, Level 2 Atrium
Admission: Free
Ms. Winnie Tay, founder of Song Without Words Music Studio, has nurtured numerous local and international prize winners, embodying the studio’s mission to cultivate each student’s passion, lifelong learning, and love for music. With a philosophy that prioritizes personal growth over competition, the studio emphasizes that ‘doing your best is more important than being the best. Reserve your seats Here.

  • Take The Stage: Pianoland Westgate Grand Opening

Time: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Venue: Westgate, Level 2 Atrium, Pianoland Store, Level 1 Courtyard
Admission: By Invite Only (Public may spectate)
Young Steinway Artist Jessie M. will collaborate with renowned Cathay busker Jeff Ng in a unique duet fusing classical and Mandopop genres. Following this, the audience will be treated to Likie Low’s expertise in blending Electronic Dance Music with traditional erhu, accompanied by 12-year-old pianist Newman Tong. Inside the store, 10-year-old prodigy Katherine Hibbs will showcase her award-winning talents. The event will conclude with Jeff Ng delivering an electrifying performance in the Courtyard, promising to captivate the entire mall.

Sunday, May 26, 2024

  • Workshop: The Everything Guide to Starting Piano Lessons

Time: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Venue: Westgate Level 2 Atrium
Admission: $10
Wondering if your child will be ready to finish Grade 8 by PSLE or if investing in a piano is necessary? Don’t fret. Expert piano pedagogue and author Dorothy Chia, with over 30 years of teaching wisdom, is here to illuminate your questions. Register Here.

  • Rising Stars Series

Venue: Westgate, Level 2 Atrium
Admission: Free

  • Students of Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music

Time: 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Goh Kai Cheng, mentored by Prof. Albert Tiu, won the grand prize at the 5th Steinway Youth Piano Competition. Darrell Lim, a second-year scholarship student, receives vocal coaching from Dr. Choi Hye-Seon. Joshua Ray-Heng Liang, under Prof. Zhang Manchin’s guidance, excels in viola and community outreach. Maw Li Awng Mi, under Steinway Artist Prof. Ning An, achieved success as a Young Artist at the YST Conservatory mentored by Albert Tiu. Reserve your seats Here.

  • Students of Steinway Artist Benjamin Loh

Time: 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Steinway Artist & Steinway Honorary Professor Benjamin Loh is celebrated as both a teacher and performer. His students have achieved remarkable success, winning prizes in local and international piano competitions and gaining admission to prestigious institutions like The Juilliard School, Cleveland Institute of Music, and École Normale de Musique de Paris. Reserve your seats Here.

Time: 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Venue: Westgate, Level 2 Atrium
Admission: Free
Quatre Music Organization, established in 2018 by four passionate pianists, is dedicated to music and music education. Through performances at concerts, music festivals, and workshops, they nurture music enthusiasts and share their love for music with the community. Reserve your seat Here.

  • Rising Stars Series featuring Students of Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts

Time: 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Venue: Westgate, Level 2 Atrium
Admission: Free
NAFA, Singapore’s pioneer arts institution, is renowned for its rigorous curriculum, practitioner-led teaching, diverse artistic creations, and community outreach efforts, solidifying its position as a leading institution in the arts landscape. Reserve your seats Here.

For more information visit Pianoland’s website.

Hashtag: #Pianoland #PianolandSingapore #Piano #Music #Westgate #capitaland #West #takethestage #localtalent #pianists #performances




The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Thai Court Orders Seizure of Over $10 Million in Assets from Ex-DSI Chief Following NACC Probe


BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 May 2024 – The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) of Thailand has announced the results of the case involving the former Director-General of the Department of Special Investigation (DSI), who was sued on charges of unusual wealth in two separate cases. In the first case, the court ordered the seizure of 341.80 million baht to be forfeited to the state. In the second case, on March 19, 2024, the court ordered the seizure of an additional 44.63 million baht in assets. The total value of the assets confiscated in both cases exceeds 386 million baht or approximately 10.59 million USD.

The NACC’s Secretary-General, Mr. Niwatchai Kasemmongkol, acting as a spokesperson for the NACC, recently held a press conference regarding the judgment of the Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct, Section 3, in the case of Mr. Tharit Pengdit. While serving as the Director-General of the Department of Special Investigation, Mr. Pengdit was found to have amassed unusual wealth. Consequently, the court ordered the seizure of his assets, totaling 44,630,426 baht, to be forfeited to the state.

The NACC found Mr. Tharit Pengdit, former Director-General of the Department of Special Investigation, guilty of amassing unusual wealth. The investigation revealed a significant increase in his assets and an abnormal decrease in debt, which were properties registered under the names of Mr. Tharit Pengdit, Mrs. Watsamon Pengdit, Mr. Piyarerk Atthakarnrat, Mr. Sanchai Srithongkul, and Piyathanawat Company Limited. Following the NACC’s inquiry, the Civil Court issued a judgment. On September 27, 2018, the NACC referred the case to the Attorney General, requesting that the assets be transferred to the government. It was concluded that the accused’s assets, totaling 341,797,811.58 baht, along with any interest or derived assets, were to be forfeited to the state.

This pertains to the investigation of the first case, which revealed reasonable grounds to suspect that the accused also possesses other unusually wealthy assets. These assets are registered under the names of Ms. Suthima Chandakoon, Ms. Thanyathorn Danwiboon, Police Lieutenant Colonel Itthiphon Bunphinij, among others, and Mrs. Watsamon Pengdit, the accused’s spouse, who used the alias Mrs. Wanthana Phiphatchaisiri, and Mr. Piyarerk Atthakarnrat to purchase a substantial amount of gold bars from Ausiris Company Limited. Consequently, the NACC resolved to conduct a further investigation into Mr. Tharit Pengdit’s assets during his tenure as Director-General of the Department of Special Investigation, initiating a second case. The assets under investigation in this second case are separate from those in the first case, which were already subject to the Civil Court’s ruling.

In the second case, the NACC has carefully deliberated and concluded that Mr. Tharit Pengdit, during his tenure as Director-General of the Department of Special Investigation, accumulated an unusually large amount of assets, demonstrated abnormal increases in assets, experienced significant decreases in debt, or acquired property without legal basis arising from his official duties or abuse of authority. These assets amount to 53,512,096 baht. Following this determination, the NACC resolved to compile and submit a comprehensive report containing inquiry documents, evidence, and expert opinions to the Attorney General. The purpose is to initiate legal proceedings before the Criminal Court for corruption and misconduct, the competent jurisdiction, and seek an order for the transfer of these unusually wealthy assets to the state.

On March 19, 2024, the Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct, Region 3, rendered a verdict in the second case concerning the civil forfeiture of assets to the state, the case involved the Attorney General as the petitioner and Mr. Tharit Pengdit as the accused, along with six objectors. The court ruled that unusually wealthy assets amounting to 44,630,426 baht, including accrued interest, derived from assets obtained through unusual means, are to be transferred to the state. This decision is in accordance with the provisions outlined in the Organic Act on Prevention and Suppression of Corruption, B.E. 2542, Section 4, alongside Section 83, and in alignment with the Organic Act on Prevention and Suppression of Corruption, B.E. 2018, Section 4, coupled with Section 125.

The court has mandated that the accused must provide various documents related to money and property totaling 44,630,426 baht, including documents pertaining to the inheritance of money or property. Additionally, the accused must effect the transfer of ownership or payment of 44,630,426 baht plus the accrued interest to the government through the Ministry of Finance. Failure to comply with this order will result in the court taking necessary measures instead of relying on the accused’s declaration of intent.

In the event that the accused is unable to transfer the assets to the government, they are obligated to pay compensation of 44,630,426 baht or transfer alternative assets equivalent to the value of the missing assets to the government until the obligation is fulfilled. Again, if the transfer is not executed, the court will enforce its order instead of relying on the accused’s declaration of intent. Any fees paid by the litigant cannot be refunded by the court under these circumstances.

*This press release translation is funded by the National Anti-Corruption Fund (NACF).

Source: https://www.nacc.go.th/categorydetail/2018083118464105/20240509132605?

Hashtag: #IntegrityWay #AntiCorruption #ZeroCorruption #NACC #NACF

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), Thailand

The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) is a constitutional independent organization and supervised by nine commissioners selected from various professions. It is authorised to undertake work on the prevention and suppression of malfeasance, particularly in government agencies, on assets investigations, as well as on the monitoring of ethics and virtues of political position holders.

It has the authority to file charges in court as well as support and build up awareness of the penalties for committing corruption. The NACC is supervised by the NACC Board and has the Office of the NACC as its administrative agency.

Since 1997, Thai Courts have ruled against and punished politicians, former ministers, high-ranking government officials as well as executives of the private sector in the thousands of cases submitted by the NACC.