More than half of the tigers that Thai authorities confiscated in 2016 from an infamous Tiger Temple tourist attraction have died from a viral disease because their immune systems were weakened by inbreeding, media reported.

 
The Buddhist temple west of Bangkok was a tourist destination where visitors took selfies with tigers and bottle-fed cubs until authorities removed its nearly 150 tigers in 2016 in response to global pressure over wildlife trafficking.

 
The confiscated animals were taken to two state-run sanctuaries but it soon became apparent they were susceptible to canine distemper virus, said a senior official from the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation.

 
"When we took the tigers in, we noted that they had no immune system due to inbreeding," the department's deputy director-general, Prakit Vongsrivattanakul, told the state-owned broadcaster MCOT on the weekend.

 
"We treated them as symptoms came up," Prakit said.

 
Prakit did not give a figure for the number of tigers that had died but public service broadcaster Thai PBS reported that the toll was 86 of the 147 rescued animals.

 
The temple had promoted itself for years as a wildlife sanctuary, but it was eventually investigated for suspected links to wildlife trafficking and animal abuse.

 
Wildlife activists accused the temple's monks of illegally breeding tigers, while some visitors said the animals appeared drugged. The temple denied the accusations.

 
Government officials could not be reached for comment on Sunday.

More than half of the tigers that Thai authorities confiscated in 2016 from an infamous Tiger Temple tourist attraction have died from a viral disease because their immune systems were weakened by inbreeding, media reported.

More than half of the tigers that Thai authorities confiscated in 2016 from an infamous Tiger Temple tourist attraction have died from a viral disease because their immune systems were weakened by inbreeding, media reported. The Buddhist temple west of Bangkok was a tourist destination where visitors took selfies with tigers and bottle-fed cubs until authorities removed its nearly 150 tigers in 2016 in response to global pressure over wildlife trafficking. The confiscated animals were taken to two state-run sanctuaries but it soon became apparent they were susceptible to canine distemper virus, said a senior official from the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation. "When we took the tigers in, we noted that they had no immune system due to inbreeding," the department's deputy director-general, Prakit Vongsrivattanakul, told the state-owned broadcaster MCOT on the weekend. "We treated them as symptoms came up," Prakit said. Prakit did not give a figure for the number of tigers that had died but public service broadcaster Thai PBS reported that the toll was 86 of the 147 rescued animals. The temple had promoted itself for years as a wildlife sanctuary, but it was eventually investigated for suspected links to wildlife trafficking and animal abuse. Wildlife activists accused the temple's monks of illegally breeding tigers, while some visitors said the animals appeared drugged. The temple denied the accusations. Government officials could not be reached for comment on Sunday.

Scores of tigers rescued from infamous Thai temple have died: Report

In the dead of night, Thai firefighter Pinyo Pukpinyo stealthily approaches a python coiled around the rafters of a home in Bangkok and quickly grabs its head with his bare hands.

Meet Thailand's snake-catching 'superhero'

Thai authorities issued arrest warrants on Tuesday for three more suspects linked to<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-seeks-more-than-10-suspects-for-a-series-of-bombs-in-bangkok-240858"> bomb attacks</a> as the capital hosted a diplomatic meeting last month, raising to seven the number of suspects still sought by police.&nbsp;

Six small bombs and six incendiary devices went off on August 2 as the foreign ministers of Southeast Asian nations met in Bangkok, an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-seeks-more-than-10-suspects-for-a-series-of-bombs-in-bangkok-240858">event</a> also attended by diplomats from China, the United States and other world powers.

Four people were wounded in the coordinated attacks police have linked either to political issues or a long-running insurgency in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thai-anti-corruption-official-accused-of-hiding-millions-in-assets-243455">Thailand</a>`s Malay-Muslim dominated south.

Tuesday`s warrants are for three suspects on charges of organized crime, arson, causing an explosion and illegal possession of explosives, said deputy police spokesman Krisana Pattanacharoen.

"All the suspects are from the deep south," he said, referring to the region where an insurgency has killed 7,000 people since 2004.

Police last week issued warrants for four other suspects who remain at large despite a 100,000 baht ($3,245) reward for information leading to their arrests.&nbsp;

Authorities detained two men on Aug. 2 accused of planting fake bombs in front of Bangkok police headquarters before the coordinated attacks. The two have ties to the insurgency, police said, and were the subject of arrest warrants issued two weeks ago.

Thai authorities issued arrest warrants on Tuesday for three more suspects linked to bomb attacks as the capital hosted a diplomatic meeting last month, raising to seven the number of suspects still sought by police.

Thai authorities issued arrest warrants on Tuesday for three more suspects linked to bomb attacks as the capital hosted a diplomatic meeting last month, raising to seven the number of suspects still sought by police. Six small bombs and six incendiary devices went off on August 2 as the foreign ministers of Southeast Asian nations met in Bangkok, an event also attended by diplomats from China, the United States and other world powers. Four people were wounded in the coordinated attacks police have linked either to political issues or a long-running insurgency in Thailand`s Malay-Muslim dominated south. Tuesday`s warrants are for three suspects on charges of organized crime, arson, causing an explosion and illegal possession of explosives, said deputy police spokesman Krisana Pattanacharoen. "All the suspects are from the deep south," he said, referring to the region where an insurgency has killed 7,000 people since 2004. Police last week issued warrants for four other suspects who remain at large despite a 100,000 baht ($3,245) reward for information leading to their arrests. Authorities detained two men on Aug. 2 accused of planting fake bombs in front of Bangkok police headquarters before the coordinated attacks. The two have ties to the insurgency, police said, and were the subject of arrest warrants issued two weeks ago.

Thailand police seek three more suspects in Bangkok blasts

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo meets with Indian Minister of External Affairs Subrahmanyam Jaishankar in Bangkok, Thailand. It is the first official meet between the two nations after US President Donald Trump's comment on mediation between India and Pakistan over Kashmir issue. S Jaishankar conveyed India's stand on Kashmir issue to Mike Pompeo. He said, discussion on Kashmir issue if at all will only be with Pakistan and bilateral.

S Jaishankar: Discussion on Kashmir issue will only be with Pakistan and bilateral

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo meets with Indian Minister of External Affairs Subrahmanyam Jaishankar in Bangkok, Thailand. It is the first official meet between the two nations after US President Donald Trump's comment on mediation between India and Pakistan over Kashmir issue.

First India-US high level meet after Trump's Kashmir comments

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo meets with Indian Minister of External Affairs Subrahmanyam Jaishankar in Bangkok, Thailand. It is the first official meet between the two nations after US President Donald Trump's comment on mediation between India and Pakistan over Kashmir issue. S Jaishankar conveyed India's stand on Kashmir issue to Mike Pompeo.

S Jaishankar conveyed India's stand to Mike Pompeo

Minister of External Affairs of India S Jaishankar will meet US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Friday on the sidelines of the second day of 9th East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers meet in Bangkok, Thailand, in the first official meet between the two nations after US President Donald Trump's comment on mediation between India and Pakistan over Kashmir issue.

Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar to meet Mike Pompeo

Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar meets Mike Pompeo

Major Security lapse in Thailand, 6 Blasts took place at 3 separate locations in Bangkok.

Wion Dispatch: 6 Blasts at 3 separate locations in Bangkok

6 Blasts at 3 separate locations in Bangkok

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is scheduled to meet US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on the sidelines of East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers meet in Bangkok, Thailand today, the US State dept confirmed.&nbsp;

The state dept public schedule said "Secretary Pompeo meets with Indian Minister of External Affairs Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, In Bangkok, Thailand." at 8.45 am IST.

Jaishankar, who is in Bangkok to participate in several ASEAN plus gatherings, will be participating in the East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (EAS FMM) &amp; ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) today.

The pull-aside between to two will be the first high-level engagement between the US and India since US President Donald Trump's remarks on Kashmir.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump recently said PM Modi had asked him to mediate between India and Pakistan on Kashmir issue during their bilateral meeting on the sidelines of Osaka G20 summit.

This was dismissed by the Indian side with EAM Jaishankar speaking in the Parliament saying all bilateral issues between India and Pakistan are governed by Shimla and Lahore agreements under which no third party mediation will be allowed.&nbsp;

Jaishankar on the first day of his visit addressed ASEAN-India Ministerial Meeting and Mekong Ganga Cooperation (MGC) Ministerial Meeting and met 10 of his counterparts.&nbsp;

The external affairs minister will visit China later this month to lay the groundwork for the second India-China informal summit that will take place by the end of this year.&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is scheduled to meet US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on the sidelines of East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers meet in Bangkok, Thailand today, the US State dept confirmed.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is scheduled to meet US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on the sidelines of East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers meet in Bangkok, Thailand today, the US State dept confirmed. The state dept public schedule said "Secretary Pompeo meets with Indian Minister of External Affairs Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, In Bangkok, Thailand." at 8.45 am IST. Jaishankar, who is in Bangkok to participate in several ASEAN plus gatherings, will be participating in the East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (EAS FMM) & ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) today. The pull-aside between to two will be the first high-level engagement between the US and India since US President Donald Trump's remarks on Kashmir. US President Donald Trump recently said PM Modi had asked him to mediate between India and Pakistan on Kashmir issue during their bilateral meeting on the sidelines of Osaka G20 summit. This was dismissed by the Indian side with EAM Jaishankar speaking in the Parliament saying all bilateral issues between India and Pakistan are governed by Shimla and Lahore agreements under which no third party mediation will be allowed. Jaishankar on the first day of his visit addressed ASEAN-India Ministerial Meeting and Mekong Ganga Cooperation (MGC) Ministerial Meeting and met 10 of his counterparts. The external affairs minister will visit China later this month to lay the groundwork for the second India-China informal summit that will take place by the end of this year.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to meet Pompeo today

WION Dispatch: Blasts at 3 separate locations in Bangkok

Several small explosions were heard in Bangkok in at least three locations on Friday and police said that two street cleaners were injured&nbsp;by what appeared to be a homemade bomb.

Thai police said they were investigating the cause of the explosions. Some explosions were heard at a government office and others near at least two other sites near central Bangkok.

Meanwhile, the Thai government confirmed a number of small "bombing incidents" in Bangkok as the city hosts a major summit, urging the public not to panic as police tighten security.

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha was told of "the bombing incidents and has ordered an immediate investigation", spokeswoman Narumon Pinyosinwat said, adding "security measures have been tightened. The public is urged not to panic."

Bangkok is currently hosting a regional security meeting of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/external-affairs-minister-s-jaishankar-to-meet-pompeo-today-240045">foreign ministers from the Association</a> of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and their counterparts from world powers including the United States, China and Russia.

A senior police officer said two street cleaners were injured by what appeared to have been a homemade bomb in the Suan Luang district.

On Thursday, Thai police said they had found two fake bombs on Thursday near the venue of the regional security meeting. The packages prompted a brief security scare but were quickly deemed harmless. It was unclear whether the meeting was the target.

Police said two men had been arrested in connection with the fake bombs.

China's top diplomat Wang Yi and US&nbsp;Secretary of State Mike Pompeo are attending the forum along with other regional and global officials.

Several small explosions were heard in Bangkok in at least three locations on Friday and police said that two street cleaners were injured by what appeared to be a homemade bomb.

Several small explosions were heard in Bangkok in at least three locations on Friday and police said that two street cleaners were injured by what appeared to be a homemade bomb. Thai police said they were investigating the cause of the explosions. Some explosions were heard at a government office and others near at least two other sites near central Bangkok. Meanwhile, the Thai government confirmed a number of small "bombing incidents" in Bangkok as the city hosts a major summit, urging the public not to panic as police tighten security. Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha was told of "the bombing incidents and has ordered an immediate investigation", spokeswoman Narumon Pinyosinwat said, adding "security measures have been tightened. The public is urged not to panic." Bangkok is currently hosting a regional security meeting of foreign ministers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and their counterparts from world powers including the United States, China and Russia. A senior police officer said two street cleaners were injured by what appeared to have been a homemade bomb in the Suan Luang district. On Thursday, Thai police said they had found two fake bombs on Thursday near the venue of the regional security meeting. The packages prompted a brief security scare but were quickly deemed harmless. It was unclear whether the meeting was the target. Police said two men had been arrested in connection with the fake bombs. China's top diplomat Wang Yi and US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo are attending the forum along with other regional and global officials.

Small explosions in Bangkok as city hosts ASEAN foreign ministers' meet

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo met with Indian Minister of External Affairs Subrahmanyam Jaishankar in Bangkok, Thailand. It was the first official meet between the two nations after US President Donald Trump's comment on mediation between India and Pakistan over Kashmir issue. S Jaishankar conveyed India's stand on Kashmir issue to Mike Pompeo. He said, discussion on Kashmir issue if at all will only be with Pakistan and bilateral. Earlier in the day, United States President Donald Trump once again reiterated his offer to mediate in the Kashmir conflict between India and Pakistan but added that is up to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to accept the offer of assistance.

India to US: Kashmir is a bilateral issue

India's Foreign Minister S Jaishankar addresses a meeting in Bangkok. Watch this video to know what he has to say.

S Jaishankar addresses meeting in Bangkok

Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar is likely to have a pull-aside with US Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, on the sidelines of 9th East Asia Summit, Foreign Ministers meet in Bangkok. Watch this video to know more.

First India-US meet post Trump's remark

EAM S Jaishankar likely to have pull aside with Mike Pompeo

Southeast Asian foreign ministers opened their annual meeting in Bangkok Wednesday with a call from host Thailand for deeper cooperation to expand trade and bolster prosperity in the region amid rising global challenges.

Opening of ASEAN foreign ministers meeting

To celebrate the end of their year on the road, Meraj and Johan seek out the biggest party they can find: the Thai New year celebrations in Bangkok. On Songkran, they join crowds of revellers on SIlom street and live it up like never before. Later in the week they head to Pattaya where Meraj plays a couple of rounds of golf at the city's newest championship layout while Johan bangs a gong at a timeless monument called, fittingly, The Sanctuary of Truth.

WION Traveller S3 Episode 1 - Thai new year

ASEAN summit is being held in Bangkok this year, Southeast Asian leaders are expected to discuss regional issues such as the Rohingya crisis and the dispute in the South China Sea.

ASEAN leaders summit underway in Bangkok

Foreign ministers of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) met on Saturday in Bangkok ahead of a summit of the leaders of the 10 member countries. Security was tightened around the city, and officials have said some 10,000 security personnel were set to be deployed, mindful of the incident 10 years ago when a summit of Asian leaders had to be cancelled after anti-government protesters stormed into the venue.

ASEAN foreign ministers meet ahead of Bangkok summit

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-east-asia/southeast-asia-should-ban-foreign-trash-imports-environmentalists-228309">Southeast Asian</a> leaders must use an upcoming summit to hold unvarnished talks on Myanmar's treatment of the Rohingya, rights groups urged Wednesday after a report by the bloc was pilloried for whitewashing the persecution of the Muslim minority.

The report, commissioned by ASEAN and leaked to AFP earlier this month, gives a glowing assessment of Myanmar's repatriation efforts so far for Rohingya driven into neighbouring Bangladesh.

Myanmar's military launched a brutal crackdown on the Rohingya in August 2017, causing some 740,000 to flood into Bangladesh with widespread accounts of rape, mass killings and the razing of their villages.

A repatriation deal with Bangladesh has stalled, with virtually no Rohingya choosing to return to Myanmar due to security fears and the government's refusal to grant them citizenship or basic rights.

In spite of this, the report from ASEAN's "Emergency Response and Assessment Team" predicted voluntary returns would be complete in two years.

It also refused to use the word "Rohingya", an identity denied to them inside Myanmar where they are instead labelled "Bengalis", shorthand for illegal immigrants.

ASEAN leaders meeting in Bangkok this weekend must "drastically rethink" their response to the crisis, according to Brad Adams of Human Rights Watch.

"It's preposterous for ASEAN leaders to be discussing the repatriation of a traumatized population into the hands of the security forces who killed them." Malaysia has led condemnation of Myanmar's treatment of the Rohingya in the past.

But the ASEAN bloc broadly sticks to diplomatic protocols by avoiding discussion of member states' internal affairs.

An Indonesian MP called for the regional bloc to "cease lending legitimacy to the repatriation process".

"ASEAN needs to stop turning a blind eye to Myanmar's atrocities against the Rohingya," said Eva Sundari, who also serves as a board member of ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights.

They "won't be returning home voluntarily until the situation on the ground in Rakhine state dramatically alters".

UN investigators have called for Myanmar's top generals to be prosecuted for genocide for the 2017 crackdown. The enduring crisis has spread to the region.

Some of the 400,000 Rohingya remaining in Myanmar's Rakhine state have attempted to flee their camps to Muslim-majority ASEAN nations Malaysia and Indonesia.

In recent months authorities in Myanmar and Thailand have stopped boats illegally carrying Rohingya, raising fears of a re-emergence of a trafficking route for the desperate stateless group. 
&nbsp;

Southeast Asian leaders must use an upcoming summit to hold unvarnished talks on Myanmar's treatment of the Rohingya, rights groups urged Wednesday after a report by the bloc was pilloried for whitewashing the persecution of the Muslim minority.

Southeast Asian leaders must use an upcoming summit to hold unvarnished talks on Myanmar's treatment of the Rohingya, rights groups urged Wednesday after a report by the bloc was pilloried for whitewashing the persecution of the Muslim minority. The report, commissioned by ASEAN and leaked to AFP earlier this month, gives a glowing assessment of Myanmar's repatriation efforts so far for Rohingya driven into neighbouring Bangladesh. Myanmar's military launched a brutal crackdown on the Rohingya in August 2017, causing some 740,000 to flood into Bangladesh with widespread accounts of rape, mass killings and the razing of their villages. A repatriation deal with Bangladesh has stalled, with virtually no Rohingya choosing to return to Myanmar due to security fears and the government's refusal to grant them citizenship or basic rights. In spite of this, the report from ASEAN's "Emergency Response and Assessment Team" predicted voluntary returns would be complete in two years. It also refused to use the word "Rohingya", an identity denied to them inside Myanmar where they are instead labelled "Bengalis", shorthand for illegal immigrants. ASEAN leaders meeting in Bangkok this weekend must "drastically rethink" their response to the crisis, according to Brad Adams of Human Rights Watch. "It's preposterous for ASEAN leaders to be discussing the repatriation of a traumatized population into the hands of the security forces who killed them." Malaysia has led condemnation of Myanmar's treatment of the Rohingya in the past. But the ASEAN bloc broadly sticks to diplomatic protocols by avoiding discussion of member states' internal affairs. An Indonesian MP called for the regional bloc to "cease lending legitimacy to the repatriation process". "ASEAN needs to stop turning a blind eye to Myanmar's atrocities against the Rohingya," said Eva Sundari, who also serves as a board member of ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights. They "won't be returning home voluntarily until the situation on the ground in Rakhine state dramatically alters". UN investigators have called for Myanmar's top generals to be prosecuted for genocide for the 2017 crackdown. The enduring crisis has spread to the region. Some of the 400,000 Rohingya remaining in Myanmar's Rakhine state have attempted to flee their camps to Muslim-majority ASEAN nations Malaysia and Indonesia. In recent months authorities in Myanmar and Thailand have stopped boats illegally carrying Rohingya, raising fears of a re-emergence of a trafficking route for the desperate stateless group.

ASEAN leaders told to get serious on Rohingya issue

A day after thousands of Thais gathered around Bangkok's Grand Palace to celebrate the coronation of Thailand's King Maha Vajiralongkorn, another group appeared to pay respect to the new king.

Elephants in show of respect to new Thai king

Over 40 roads around and leading toward the Grand Palace will gradually be closed in Bangkok from Thursday (May 2) as Thailand gears up for the country's first coronation in nearly seven decades for King Maha Vajiralongkorn.

Sunrise, sunset as Thailand prepares for royal coronation at Grand Palace

Two people were killed and more than a dozen injured after a fire broke out at one of Bangkok's busiest shopping malls Wednesday evening, officials said.

The blaze at Central World broke out at around 6pm, a spokesperson for the Erawan Medical Emergency centre told reporters.

"One (person) died at the scene" and another at a nearby hospital, the spokesperson said.

Bangkok's governor Aswin Kwanmuang confirmed the two deaths.

"I have been informed that the fire was put down," he said in a press conference, adding that an investigation will commence tomorrow.

By 9 pm, the number of people injured had reached 17, said the Erawan Medical Emergency centre.

Footage circulating on social media earlier in the evening showed smoke billowing from the structure.

Employees of the mall stood outside as sirens blared, while firefighters and emergency medical staff moved the injured out on stretchers.&nbsp;

Police spokesperson Krissana Pattanacharoen said one person had leapt to their death.

The area around Central World is a popular shopping destination and was chock-full of tourists and rush-hour traffic.

A company representative told reporters the fire appeared to have started on the 8th floor, but had been contained and the building evacuated.

The mall is owned by Central Group, which is controlled by one of the wealthiest families in the country.

Two people were killed and more than a dozen injured after a fire broke out at one of Bangkok's busiest shopping malls Wednesday evening, officials said. The blaze at Central World broke out at around 6pm, a spokesperson for the Erawan Medical Emergency centre told reporters.

Two people were killed and more than a dozen injured after a fire broke out at one of Bangkok's busiest shopping malls Wednesday evening, officials said. The blaze at Central World broke out at around 6pm, a spokesperson for the Erawan Medical Emergency centre told reporters. "One (person) died at the scene" and another at a nearby hospital, the spokesperson said. Bangkok's governor Aswin Kwanmuang confirmed the two deaths. "I have been informed that the fire was put down," he said in a press conference, adding that an investigation will commence tomorrow. By 9 pm, the number of people injured had reached 17, said the Erawan Medical Emergency centre. Footage circulating on social media earlier in the evening showed smoke billowing from the structure. Employees of the mall stood outside as sirens blared, while firefighters and emergency medical staff moved the injured out on stretchers. Police spokesperson Krissana Pattanacharoen said one person had leapt to their death. The area around Central World is a popular shopping destination and was chock-full of tourists and rush-hour traffic. A company representative told reporters the fire appeared to have started on the 8th floor, but had been contained and the building evacuated. The mall is owned by Central Group, which is controlled by one of the wealthiest families in the country.

Fire at Bangkok shopping mall kills at least two, injures 16

Hundreds of thousands of voters crowded into schools, parking lots and temples across <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/weightlifting-thailand-to-host-world-championships-despite-voluntary-ban-202050">Thailand</a> on Sunday, eager to cast an early ballot a week before the country's first election in eight years.

Advanced voting is usually a tepid affair, but on Sunday excitement was high as voters turned up in droves to polling stations.

More than 2.3 million Thais are expected to vote before the official March 24 poll date.

Since a 2014 coup ousted then-premier Yingluck Shinawatra, the junta has repeatedly postponed democratic elections - much to the chagrin of the Thai public.&nbsp;

'I finally have a chance to cast my vote as I've waited for so long,'&nbsp;said 48-year-old Paka Kaengkhiew as she stood in line in front of Bangkok's Phra Khanong district office.&nbsp;

In Dusit district - home to military offices and government buildings - voters piled into a schoolyard before a polling station there opened.&nbsp;

People dressed in their work clothes -- military uniforms, hospital scrubs, and more casual attire - waited patiently to cast their ballot, aided by student helpers.

At 9.00 am Prem Tinsulanonda, the head of the Privy Council - the advisory board to Thai King Maha Vajialongkon - arrived at the school.

Watched by Thai and international media, the 98-year-old carrying an oxygen tank was pushed in a wheelchair into a classroom boasting a portrait of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who he advised, before walking the final steps to a polling booth.

The former general was briefly installed as the temporary regent for Thailand's revered monarchy following the death of the late king before King Vajiralongkorn took over, cementing Prem's role as one of the most powerful - and enduring - players in the Machiavellian game of Thai politics. &nbsp;

More than 51 million Thais are eligible to vote in the official March 24 election, which will be held under a new military-scripted constitution.&nbsp;

There are 'high expectations'&nbsp;for this year's election, said Sudarat Keyuraphan, a prime ministerial candidate for Pheu Thai -- the party which garnered the most parliamentary seats in 2011's election, and is loathed by the military.&nbsp;

'The (junta) says the country is under peace and order but... the people have no hope,'&nbsp;she told reporters at the Pheu Thai headquarters. "We are confident... we will be the party that voters go for the most."

Analysts say the new electoral system favors the Army-aligned party fronted by junta leader Prayut Chan-O-Cha, who is running to be civilian prime minister after a government is formed.

But voters on Sunday still held on to hopes for change.&nbsp;

'I vote today in the hope for better change,'&nbsp;said Mart Bupa, 53.&nbsp;

Hundreds of thousands of voters crowded into schools, parking lots and temples across Thailand on Sunday, eager to cast an early ballot a week before the country's first election in eight years.

Hundreds of thousands of voters crowded into schools, parking lots and temples across Thailand on Sunday, eager to cast an early ballot a week before the country's first election in eight years. Advanced voting is usually a tepid affair, but on Sunday excitement was high as voters turned up in droves to polling stations. More than 2.3 million Thais are expected to vote before the official March 24 poll date. Since a 2014 coup ousted then-premier Yingluck Shinawatra, the junta has repeatedly postponed democratic elections - much to the chagrin of the Thai public. 'I finally have a chance to cast my vote as I've waited for so long,' said 48-year-old Paka Kaengkhiew as she stood in line in front of Bangkok's Phra Khanong district office. In Dusit district - home to military offices and government buildings - voters piled into a schoolyard before a polling station there opened. People dressed in their work clothes -- military uniforms, hospital scrubs, and more casual attire - waited patiently to cast their ballot, aided by student helpers. At 9.00 am Prem Tinsulanonda, the head of the Privy Council - the advisory board to Thai King Maha Vajialongkon - arrived at the school. Watched by Thai and international media, the 98-year-old carrying an oxygen tank was pushed in a wheelchair into a classroom boasting a portrait of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who he advised, before walking the final steps to a polling booth. The former general was briefly installed as the temporary regent for Thailand's revered monarchy following the death of the late king before King Vajiralongkorn took over, cementing Prem's role as one of the most powerful - and enduring - players in the Machiavellian game of Thai politics. More than 51 million Thais are eligible to vote in the official March 24 election, which will be held under a new military-scripted constitution. There are 'high expectations' for this year's election, said Sudarat Keyuraphan, a prime ministerial candidate for Pheu Thai -- the party which garnered the most parliamentary seats in 2011's election, and is loathed by the military. 'The (junta) says the country is under peace and order but... the people have no hope,' she told reporters at the Pheu Thai headquarters. "We are confident... we will be the party that voters go for the most." Analysts say the new electoral system favors the Army-aligned party fronted by junta leader Prayut Chan-O-Cha, who is running to be civilian prime minister after a government is formed. But voters on Sunday still held on to hopes for change. 'I vote today in the hope for better change,' said Mart Bupa, 53.

Thailand's early voting kicks off with long queues

The Philippines' Catriona Gray was named <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/philippines-catriono-elisa-gray-crowned-miss-universe-2018-184662">Miss Universe 2018</a> in a competition concluding Monday in Bangkok, besting contestants from 93 other countries and delighting her home nation.

Gray wore a sparkling red dress she said was inspired by a volcano in the Philippines as she was handed the crown to the delight of a roaring crowd. She succeeds Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters of South Africa.

24-year-old Gray is a singer and model. Her father is Australian, and she was born and grew up in Cairns, Australia.

She studied at the Berklee College of Music in Boston in the United States. She holds a Master Certificate in Music Theory. An adventure junkie, Gray is an HIV/AIDS advocate and volunteers as a Teacher's Assistant to the students at an NGO, according to the official Miss Universe website.

In the final question round, Gray was asked about the most important lesson she has learnt in life and how would she apply it in her time as Miss Universe.

She said, "I work a lot in the slums of Manila and life there is very poor and sad. I have always taught myself to look for the beauty in it, to look for the beauty in the faces of the children, and I would bring this aspect as a Miss Universe to see situations with a silver lining and to asses where I could give something and provide something."

She further said she would like to expand her work in the slums of Manila with an organisation that promotes education on HIV and AIDS.

Gray is the fourth Filipina to win Miss Universe and the second in three years.

The office of Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was quick to congratulate the winner.

The Philippines previously won Miss Universe titles in 2015, 1973 and 1969.

The Philippines' Catriona Gray was named Miss Universe 2018 in a competition concluding Monday in Bangkok, besting contestants from 93 other countries and delighting her home nation.

The Philippines' Catriona Gray was named Miss Universe 2018 in a competition concluding Monday in Bangkok, besting contestants from 93 other countries and delighting her home nation. Gray wore a sparkling red dress she said was inspired by a volcano in the Philippines as she was handed the crown to the delight of a roaring crowd. She succeeds Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters of South Africa. 24-year-old Gray is a singer and model. Her father is Australian, and she was born and grew up in Cairns, Australia. She studied at the Berklee College of Music in Boston in the United States. She holds a Master Certificate in Music Theory. An adventure junkie, Gray is an HIV/AIDS advocate and volunteers as a Teacher's Assistant to the students at an NGO, according to the official Miss Universe website. In the final question round, Gray was asked about the most important lesson she has learnt in life and how would she apply it in her time as Miss Universe. She said, "I work a lot in the slums of Manila and life there is very poor and sad. I have always taught myself to look for the beauty in it, to look for the beauty in the faces of the children, and I would bring this aspect as a Miss Universe to see situations with a silver lining and to asses where I could give something and provide something." She further said she would like to expand her work in the slums of Manila with an organisation that promotes education on HIV and AIDS. Gray is the fourth Filipina to win Miss Universe and the second in three years. The office of Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was quick to congratulate the winner. The Philippines previously won Miss Universe titles in 2015, 1973 and 1969.

Miss Universe 2018: Know all about Philippines' Catriona Gray

A shoot-out between two teenage gangs in a popular shopping district in Bangkok left at least one Indian tourist dead and four others injured, a health official said Monday.&nbsp;

The deadly skirmish occurred Sunday night in central Bangkok's Pratunam district, a tourist-friendly area known for its cheap shopping and night markets.

Police spokesman Colonel Krissana Pattanacharoen said in a press statement several teenagers "had an argument, and started shooting in a small alley near a Bangkok mall".&nbsp;

There was a group of Indian tourists waiting for a tour bus nearby when gunfire broke out.

"Police are still hunting for the group of teenagers," the statement said.

A health official from Bangkok's Erawan Centre -- the dispatch centre for the city's emergency medical services -- told AFP that one Indian tourist died, and there are four others who were injured.

"One is a Lao who was admitted to the police hospital who is still alive," the hospital official said.&nbsp;

A shoot-out between two teenage gangs in a popular shopping district in Bangkok left at least one Indian tourist dead and four others injured, a health official said Monday.

A shoot-out between two teenage gangs in a popular shopping district in Bangkok left at least one Indian tourist dead and four others injured, a health official said Monday. The deadly skirmish occurred Sunday night in central Bangkok's Pratunam district, a tourist-friendly area known for its cheap shopping and night markets. Police spokesman Colonel Krissana Pattanacharoen said in a press statement several teenagers "had an argument, and started shooting in a small alley near a Bangkok mall". There was a group of Indian tourists waiting for a tour bus nearby when gunfire broke out. "Police are still hunting for the group of teenagers," the statement said. A health official from Bangkok's Erawan Centre -- the dispatch centre for the city's emergency medical services -- told AFP that one Indian tourist died, and there are four others who were injured. "One is a Lao who was admitted to the police hospital who is still alive," the hospital official said.

Indian tourist dead in Thai teenage gang shoot-out

Anti-government&nbsp;protesters&nbsp;began marching in Bangkok on Tuesday from a university in the&nbsp;Thai&nbsp;capital to Government House to demand that the military government hold a general election by November.

Government House and surrounding streets have been declared a no-go zone by police for the opposition march marking four years since a May 22, 2014, coup and have warned&nbsp;protesters&nbsp;not to defy a junta ban on public gatherings.

Police set up barriers along some roads near the university and carried out security checks on Tuesday.

More than 100 demonstrators walked in a line behind a truck with loudspeakers as police looked on, according to&nbsp;reporters at the scene.

One of the protest organisers, Sirawith Seritiwat, also known as Ja New, said&nbsp;protesters&nbsp;planned to march peacefully.

"I hope they will let us walk out. We have no intention to prolong today's activities. I think they will try to stop us ... we will not use violence," Sirawith told.

Police said around 200&nbsp;protesters&nbsp;had gathered.

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"Authorities will use the law 100 percent. If they walk out we will use the law immediately. We have put forces all around Government House ... if they come into these areas there will be a prison sentence of up to 6 months," deputy national police chief Srivara Ransibrahmanakul told reporters.

"Police have no weapons. They are carrying only batons," he said.

Activists complained of a military crackdown ahead of the gathering.

On Monday, Sunai Phasuk,&nbsp;Thai&nbsp;researcher at the New York-based Human Rights Watch group, said two activists had been held incommunicado at a secret detention centre.

"Their alleged 'crime' is providing loudspeakers for anti-junta rally," Sunai wrote on Twitter.

They were later released.

The junta, known as the National Council for Peace and Order, is facing a public perception crisis, according to international and domestic polls that say corruption is as endemic as ever.

The government has also repeatedly delayed the general election, which was first tentatively set for 2015, with the latest date now February 2019.

Some fear the date could be pushed back again.

Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwan told reporters gathered at Government House the protesters&nbsp;were welcome to send a representative to the prime minister's office.

"The prime minister works hard ... the NCPO these four years has worked every day... All NCPO members have worked hard," Prawit said.

Suchada Saebae, 55, a market vendor, disagreed.

"I came since 6 a.m. this morning because I think the NCPO has done a rubbish job these past four years," Suchada said.

Some&nbsp;protesters&nbsp;held&nbsp;Thai&nbsp;flags and others held signs with cartoons of Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-Ocha as Pinocchio.

Protests against military rule have taken place intermittently in Bangkok since the start of the year.

Some of them have been led by young activists. Others have been attended by former "red shirts", or supporters of ousted former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who was toppled in 2006 and fled abroad.

His sister, Yingluck Shinawatra, was ousted in the 2014 coup and also fled abroad before being convicted in absentia of corruption.

Thailand has been rocked by pro- and anti-government street protests for more than a decade, some of them deadly.

The military says it carried out the 2014 coup to end the cycle of violence.

Police said around 200 protesters had gathered

Anti-government protesters began marching in Bangkok on Tuesday from a university in the Thai capital to Government House to demand that the military government hold a general election by November. Government House and surrounding streets have been declared a no-go zone by police for the opposition march marking four years since a May 22, 2014, coup and have warned protesters not to defy a junta ban on public gatherings. Police set up barriers along some roads near the university and carried out security checks on Tuesday. More than 100 demonstrators walked in a line behind a truck with loudspeakers as police looked on, according to reporters at the scene. One of the protest organisers, Sirawith Seritiwat, also known as Ja New, said protesters planned to march peacefully. "I hope they will let us walk out. We have no intention to prolong today's activities. I think they will try to stop us ... we will not use violence," Sirawith told. Police said around 200 protesters had gathered. "Authorities will use the law 100 percent. If they walk out we will use the law immediately. We have put forces all around Government House ... if they come into these areas there will be a prison sentence of up to 6 months," deputy national police chief Srivara Ransibrahmanakul told reporters. "Police have no weapons. They are carrying only batons," he said. Activists complained of a military crackdown ahead of the gathering. On Monday, Sunai Phasuk, Thai researcher at the New York-based Human Rights Watch group, said two activists had been held incommunicado at a secret detention centre. "Their alleged 'crime' is providing loudspeakers for anti-junta rally," Sunai wrote on Twitter. They were later released. The junta, known as the National Council for Peace and Order, is facing a public perception crisis, according to international and domestic polls that say corruption is as endemic as ever. The government has also repeatedly delayed the general election, which was first tentatively set for 2015, with the latest date now February 2019. Some fear the date could be pushed back again. Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwan told reporters gathered at Government House the protesters were welcome to send a representative to the prime minister's office. "The prime minister works hard ... the NCPO these four years has worked every day... All NCPO members have worked hard," Prawit said. Suchada Saebae, 55, a market vendor, disagreed. "I came since 6 a.m. this morning because I think the NCPO has done a rubbish job these past four years," Suchada said. Some protesters held Thai flags and others held signs with cartoons of Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-Ocha as Pinocchio. Protests against military rule have taken place intermittently in Bangkok since the start of the year. Some of them have been led by young activists. Others have been attended by former "red shirts", or supporters of ousted former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who was toppled in 2006 and fled abroad. His sister, Yingluck Shinawatra, was ousted in the 2014 coup and also fled abroad before being convicted in absentia of corruption. Thailand has been rocked by pro- and anti-government street protests for more than a decade, some of them deadly. The military says it carried out the 2014 coup to end the cycle of violence.

Thailand: Around 200 protesters gather during anti-government protests, police set up barriers

For those who like to mull over the idea of life, death and after-life, a Thai cafe lets its customer lie down in a coffin and contemplate their lives.

A Bangkok cafe has death as its central theme and offers a coffee discount to customers who lie in the coffin.

A customer can stay inside the coffin for as long as he/she wants. Tiny holes in the coffin let in air while a person stays in the dark.

The owner of the cafe, Veeranut Rojanaprapa, shares that almost always people come out of the coffin and share their experiences.

Rojanaprapa states that the one-of-a-kind experience casts an indelible effect on people who often express having realised the meaning and the significance of life.&nbsp;

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The coffin placed inside the cafe is white in colour and surrounded by floral sceptres and chairs. The floral wreath attached to the coffin has an epitaph that reads, "Eventually, you can bring nothing".

Customers can write their experiences in a notebook attached to the coffin. Visitors can also write about their last wish or funeral rites plan which will be sent to them in 10 years.

A walk inside the cafe will also give you a glimpse of quotes splashed across its walls, some of them read, "Are you happy with what you do?", "Is there someone waiting for you at home?".

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Kai Mai Death Awareness Cafe was opened in January this year and is located in Bangkok, Thailand.&nbsp;

A customer can stay inside the coffin for as long as he wants

For those who like to mull over the idea of life, death and after-life, a Thai cafe lets its customer lie down in a coffin and contemplate their lives. A Bangkok cafe has death as its central theme and offers a coffee discount to customers who lie in the coffin. A customer can stay inside the coffin for as long as he/she wants. Tiny holes in the coffin let in air while a person stays in the dark. The owner of the cafe, Veeranut Rojanaprapa, shares that almost always people come out of the coffin and share their experiences. Rojanaprapa states that the one-of-a-kind experience casts an indelible effect on people who often express having realised the meaning and the significance of life. × The coffin placed inside the cafe is white in colour and surrounded by floral sceptres and chairs. The floral wreath attached to the coffin has an epitaph that reads, "Eventually, you can bring nothing". Customers can write their experiences in a notebook attached to the coffin. Visitors can also write about their last wish or funeral rites plan which will be sent to them in 10 years. A walk inside the cafe will also give you a glimpse of quotes splashed across its walls, some of them read, "Are you happy with what you do?", "Is there someone waiting for you at home?". × Kai Mai Death Awareness Cafe was opened in January this year and is located in Bangkok, Thailand.

Bangkok's death-themed cafe lets its customers lie in coffin 

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