BANGKOK - THOUSANDS of supporters of ousted premier Thaksin Shinawatra massed in Bangkok on Sunday to show support for the embattled government, raising fears of clashes with rivals besieging the airports.

Bedecked in bright red shirts to differentiate themselves from their yellow-clad foes in the People's Alliance for Democracy, the pro-government supporters waved national flags and wore headbands reading simply 'Thaksin.'

BANGKOK - THE head of the South-east Asian bloc Asean said on Sunday that time is 'running short' for crisis-hit Thailand as it prepares to hold a major summit, adding that a delay would enable better preparations.

Dr Surin Pitsuwan, secretary general of the Association of South-east Asian Nations, issued the statement during a visit to Thailand as the country grapples with a blockade of its airports by anti-government protesters.

MINISTER Mentor Lee Kuan Yew, 85, had a minor surgery on Saturday to implant a cardiac pacemaker, said a statement from the Prime Minister's Office on Sunday.

The surgery was performed because MM Lee has been experiencing symptoms of cardiac arrhythmia - irregular heart rhythm - which showed up with his atrial flutter on Sept 14.

MUMBAI - THE management of the Taj Hotel in Mumbai was warned it was a possible target, but increased security measures were eased shortly before the devastating militant attack, its owner said on Sunday.

Mr Ratan Tata said the extra protection, which kept cars away from the hotel's front entrance, would not have prevented the assault.