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Thailand Expands E-Visa Program to Nine African Nations Thailand has launched an e-visa program for nine African nations as of January 1, aiming to boost tourism by simplifying the application process. This digital system replaces physical applications and ensures faster processing, typically within five working days. The approved countries include Nigeria, Ghana, Cameroon, and Chad, among others. Applicants must submit proof of residence, travel plans, and return flight details online via the Royal Thai Embassy’s website. The initiative builds on Thailand’s growing ties with Africa through policies like the Thai-Africa Initiative, encouraging tourism beyond major hubs like Bangkok and Phuket.

Drunken Tourist Attacks Phuket Bikers Over Massage Ride Refusal A drunken tourist in Phuket attacked three motorcycle taxi riders after they refused to give him a ride to a massage parlor, citing that they were fully booked. Video footage showed the foreigner shouting and assaulting the riders, injuring one by strangling and hitting the others during the altercation. The man eventually left the scene, and the riders reported the incident to Karon Police. The tourist was fined only 500 baht and paid 5,000 baht in compensation, which the victims deemed insufficient. Many netizens criticized perceived leniency towards foreigners, with claims of bias from local police. Drug use, rather than alcohol, was suspected.

Chinese Actor Disappears Near Thai-Myanmar Border Chinese actor Wang Xing, known as Xingxing, disappeared after being lured to Thailand under the pretense of a film shoot, raising fears of human trafficking. Xingxing traveled from Shanghai to the Thai-Myanmar border town of Mae Sot, an area infamous for illegal activities, after responding to a casting call on WeChat. Communication with his girlfriend, Jiajia, ceased shortly after his arrival. She has since sought help from Chinese and Thai authorities, including the Chinese Embassy and Consulate in Thailand. As investigations continue, the case underscores the dangers of digital scams targeting vulnerable individuals in creative industries.

The transcription below features news from Thailand and across Asia, as presented on Good Morning Thailand, hosted by Alex and Jay. The stories cover a wide range of topics, from an elephant panic during a ritual in Thailand to Vietnam's impressive 7.09% economic growth in 2024. 1. Elephant Panic During Ritual Nearly Turns Tragic A cultural ritual in Thailand, involving children passing under an elephant for good fortune, almost ended in disaster when the elephant panicked. The incident, captured on CCTV, sparked debate over safety and tradition. 2. Drunken Tourist Assaults Phuket Riders Over Massage Ride A tourist in Phuket attacked three motorcycle taxi riders who refused him a ride to a massage parlour. Despite causing injuries, he was fined only 500 baht, raising public criticism. 3. Chinese Actor Vanishes Near Thai-Myanmar Border Chinese actor Wang Xing disappeared after being lured to Mae Sot for a fake film shoot, sparking fears of human trafficking. Authorities are investigating. 4. Thaksin’s Remarks Spark Racism Controversy Former Thai PM Thaksin Shinawatra faces backlash over racist comments during a campaign, drawing criticism for undermining human rights principles. 5. Thailand Expands E-Visa Program to Africa Thailand launched an e-visa program for nine African nations, simplifying travel for tourists and strengthening ties under the Thai-Africa Initiative. 6. Bangkok Faces Hazardous PM2.5 Pollution Levels Bangkok and 66 provinces reported dangerous PM2.5 levels, with Bangkok Yai reaching 102.3µg/m³. Authorities face mounting pressure for solutions. 7. Malaysia’s Ex-PM Najib Wins House Detention Appeal Malaysia's ex-PM Najib Razak secured a court ruling to reconsider house detention claims linked to a royal document, reigniting political debate. 8. Vietnam's Economy Surges with 7.09% Growth in 2024 Vietnam’s GDP reached $476.3 billion in 2024, driven by strong exports and investment, despite challenges in the banking and real estate sectors. 9. Indonesia’s $28 Billion Free Meal Program Launches Indonesia’s President Prabowo launched a free meal initiative targeting 83 million people by 2029, focusing on malnutrition and economic growth. 10. Motorcycle-Sized Tuna Sells for $1.3 Million in Tokyo A 608-pound bluefin tuna fetched $1.3 million at Tokyo's New Year auction, continuing a tradition but raising concerns over overfishing.

Foreign Tourists Assault Phuket Taxi Driver Over Fare Dispute A viral video captured two foreign men attacking a Thai taxi driver in Phuket outside a supermarket on December 3, allegedly over a fare dispute. The men, who had booked the service via the Bolt app, traveled from Patong to Thalang for a fare of 570 baht but only had 200 baht in cash. After requesting a stop for currency exchange, the driver asked for an additional 200 baht for the detour, sparking an argument and subsequent physical assault. Despite public outrage and calls for legal action, the driver declined to press charges, prompting mixed reactions from Thai netizens about the incident's handling.

Foreign Tourists Criticized for Inappropriate Behavior on Phuket Tuk-Tuk A video of foreign tourists engaging in intimate behavior on a tuk-tuk in Phuket on January 3 sparked outrage online. Shared by a Facebook user, the 37-second clip shows the tourists ignoring the driver’s repeated warnings to stop while en route to their accommodation. The incident, which occurred near Patong Beach, drew mixed reactions, with some netizens joking and others expressing frustration over disrespectful behavior. Locals have voiced concerns about the recurring issue of inappropriate tourist conduct, urging visitors to respect Phuket’s cultural values to protect its reputation.

PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra Declares Over 13 Billion Baht in Assets Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, 38, disclosed assets exceeding 13 billion baht and liabilities of 4.4 billion baht, according to the National Anti-Corruption Commission. Her holdings include 217 handbags, 23 luxury vehicles, gold, jewelry, and properties in Thailand, Japan, and London. Her income, primarily from dividends, totals over 265 million baht annually, while expenses reach 57 million baht. Notable liabilities include loans from family members. The declaration highlights her significant wealth and luxurious lifestyle, featuring investments across 32 companies and extensive landholdings.

Tree Falls on Thai Bus, Injuring 11, Including British Teens A bus carrying tourists to Kanchanaburi's Erawan Waterfall was struck by a falling tree cut down by an illegal logger, injuring 11 people, including three British teens. The bus narrowly avoided plunging down a hillside as the driver brought it to a halt. Passengers suffered injuries from shattered glass and branches, with one Canadian tourist in intensive care. Authorities suspect deliberate logging, arresting a local man after finding tree-cutting tools in his truck. Officials pledged to cover medical costs and launched a full investigation, emphasizing the need for stricter anti-logging measures.

Russian Tourist Stabbed in Pattaya Over Misunderstood Joke A 39-year-old Russian tourist, Denis Rumiantsev, was stabbed in the leg outside a convenience store on Jomtien Second Road, Pattaya, after a joke he made was misunderstood. The incident occurred early on January 4 after Rumiantsev had been drinking and attempted to joke with another group, who reacted violently. Emergency services treated his heavy bleeding before transporting him to a hospital. Police are investigating the incident, reviewing CCTV footage, and waiting for Rumiantsev to file a formal complaint.

Spanish Tourist Gored to Death While Bathing Elephant Blanca Ojanguren García, a 22-year-old Spanish tourist, was fatally attacked by an elephant at Koh Yao Elephant Care Centre in Thailand. While bathing the animal, it unexpectedly sank its tusk into her, causing fatal injuries. Experts attribute the elephant's stress to unnatural interactions with tourists outside its ecosystem. Thailand has over 4,000 domesticated elephants, often used in tourism, facing isolation and harsh training. García, a law student from Spain studying abroad in Taiwan, visited the sanctuary with her boyfriend. The incident raises ongoing concerns about ethical elephant tourism.

The transcription below features news stories from Thailand and other Asian countries as presented on the Good Morning Thailand program, hosted by Alex and Jay. Highlights include topics such as a Spanish tourist killed by an elephant in Thailand and Malaysia intensifying patrols to locate migrant boats. 1. Spanish Tourist Killed by Elephant in Thailand A 22-year-old Spanish tourist was fatally attacked by an elephant at Koh Yao Elephant Care Centre while bathing the animal. Experts cite stress from unnatural tourist interactions as the cause. 2. Russian Tourist Stabbed After Joke Turns Violent A Russian tourist was stabbed in Pattaya after a misunderstood joke. Police are reviewing CCTV and awaiting the victim’s complaint. 3. Outrage Over Tourists’ Misconduct on Phuket Tuk-Tuk Foreign tourists sparked outrage for inappropriate behavior on a Phuket tuk-tuk. Locals urge respect for cultural norms to protect the island's reputation. 4. Foreigners Attack Phuket Taxi Driver Over Fare Dispute Two foreign tourists assaulted a Phuket taxi driver over a fare issue. Despite public backlash, the driver declined to press charges. 5. Falling Tree Injures Tourists on Bus in Kanchanaburi A falling tree, cut illegally, struck a tourist bus near Erawan Waterfall, injuring 11, including British teens. Authorities are investigating. 6. Thai PM Declares 13 Billion Baht in Assets Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra revealed over 13 billion baht in assets, including luxury items, properties, and extensive investments. 7. British and South African Nationals Found Dead in Vietnam A British woman and a South African man were found dead in a Vietnam villa. Investigations are underway to determine the cause. 8. Malaysia Boosts Patrols for Migrant Boats Malaysia increased patrols to locate Myanmar migrant boats after 196 were detained near Langkawi. Coordination with Thailand continues. 9. Food Restrictions on Singapore Domestic Workers Raise Alarm Reports of food deprivation among domestic workers in Singapore highlight gaps in legal protections. Advocates call for clearer laws. 10. Protests in South Korea Over President Yoon’s Arrest Warrant Protesters clashed in Seoul as President Yoon faces an arrest warrant for declaring martial law. The warrant is set to expire soon.

Russian Tourists Injured in Pattaya Bus Crash A bus carrying 37 Russian tourists to Pattaya crashed into a stationary Toyota Fortuner SUV at the Pong toll booth on January 2, injuring 27 passengers. Witnesses reported the bus veered unexpectedly, causing severe damage to both vehicles. Emergency responders quickly transported the injured to Pattaya hospitals, with several suffering broken bones but no life-threatening injuries. The remaining 10 passengers were safely transported to their hotel. Authorities suspect excessive speed or abrupt maneuvers as possible causes, pending further investigation.

Pattaya Bus Driver Rams SUV in Parking Dispute A parking dispute in Pattaya turned violent when a tour bus driver intentionally rammed a Bolt SUV after an argument with its driver, Mr. O. The altercation, captured on video, occurred on December 30 outside a North Pattaya hotel. The bus driver, frustrated over the SUV blocking his way, escalated the situation despite Mr. O moving his car to make room. Witnesses say the bus driver attempted a physical confrontation before ramming the SUV in a fit of rage. While the tour company agreed to cover vehicle damages, they refused to compensate Mr. O for lost income, with the driver dismissively stating he had no money.

American Base jumpers in Face Legal Backlash Three American daredevils are facing backlash after a viral TikTok video showed them base-jumping off the roof of Bangkok’s Emsphere mall. The stunt, which occurred on October 3, involved trespassing and a dramatic escape to Benjasiri Park on motorcycles. Identified as experienced base jumpers, Arman Kremer, Mateo Leo Massoni, and Blake Smith used an elaborate infiltration plan to access the rooftop. The mall has filed trespassing charges, and police have labeled the act reckless. In response, Emsphere has tightened security with rooftop cameras and 24-hour guards. Although the jumpers have left Thailand, legal action remains underway.

South Korean Man Arrested After High-Speed Chase A South Korean man was arrested near Pattaya after a dramatic 100-kilometer high-speed chase ended in a fiery crash on Highway 36. The suspect, aged 35-40, flipped his pickup truck, which caught fire after colliding with a guardrail. Police extinguished the flames and discovered a bag of cash inside the vehicle. The chase began when the suspect attacked a woman on the motorway and fled, damaging multiple cars and evading authorities. The pursuit ended when a tire burst, causing the truck to overturn. Despite attempting to flee on foot, the suspect was apprehended and faces legal action under Thai law.

MP Questions Chinese Police Training Program An MP from the People’s Party, Sasinan Thamnithinan, has questioned the Royal Thai Police (RTP) about a training programme for Chinese volunteer police, focusing on its legality, the 38,000-baht fee, and the issuance of identification cards with the national emblem. Conducted in collaboration with Siam University, the three-day training aimed to teach Chinese students about Thai law, but concerns arose over fee allocation and the use of official police insignia. The RTP clarified that their officers only served as lecturers and denied involvement in financial arrangements or the distribution of emblem-bearing items. However, Sasinan challenged the jurisdiction of the officers involved and questioned whether the programme exceeded its stated purpose.

Ex-Boxer Arrested After Fatal Punch A former Thai boxer with a history of mental illness was arrested for fatally punching a security guard during a January 1 celebration in Sakon Nakhon. The suspect, 38-year-old Tum, attacked volunteer security guards, leaving one victim, Somchai, with fatal head injuries after falling unconscious and hitting the ground. Three others sustained minor injuries. Tum, arrested at his nearby home, appeared confused and refused to answer police questions. Witnesses reported he displayed uncontrollable strength during the attack. Known for prior drug use and mental health treatments, Tum may face charges under Section 297 of Thailand's Criminal Law, carrying penalties of 6 months to 10 years imprisonment and fines up to 200,000 baht.

The transcription below highlights news stories featured in the Good Morning Thailand program, hosted by Alex and Jay. These stories range from the legal backlash faced by American base jumpers to Vietnam's record-low birth rate. 1. American Base Jumpers Face Legal Backlash Three American daredevils are under legal scrutiny after a viral video showed them base-jumping off Bangkok's Emsphere Mall. The mall has pressed charges for trespassing, with Thai police labeling the act reckless. 2. Pattaya Bus Driver Rams SUV in Rage A parking dispute in Pattaya turned violent when a tour bus driver rammed an SUV in frustration. The altercation caused property damage, with the tour company offering limited compensation. 3. 27 Injured in Pattaya Bus Crash A bus carrying Russian tourists crashed into a stationary SUV near Pattaya, injuring 27. Authorities suspect excessive speed or abrupt maneuvers as contributing factors. 4. South Korean Man Arrested After High-Speed Chase A South Korean man faces charges after a 100-kilometer chase near Pattaya ended in a fiery crash. The pursuit began after an alleged motorway assault. 5. Ex-Boxer Arrested for Fatal Punch in Sakon Nakhon A former Thai boxer fatally punched a security guard during a New Year celebration. The suspect, known for mental health issues, faces charges under Thai criminal law. 6. MP Questions Chinese Police Training Program A Thai MP raised concerns about a training program for Chinese volunteer police, questioning its legality and use of official insignia. The Royal Thai Police denied financial involvement. 7. Impeached South Korean President Resists Arrest South Korea’s impeached president, Yoon Suk Yeol, defied detention over corruption allegations, rallying supporters amid rising political tension in Seoul. 8. Jakarta Police Director Fired Over Extortion Scandal Jakarta’s drug investigation director was dismissed for extorting over $155,000 during a music festival. Lawmakers demand transparency in ongoing investigations. 9. Vietnam’s Birth Rate Hits Record Low Vietnam recorded its lowest birth rate in history at 1.91 births per woman in 2024, raising concerns about an aging population and economic challenges. 10. Phnom Penh Sets Tourism Record Phnom Penh welcomed 1.5 million visitors during New Year’s celebrations, highlighting Cambodia’s growing tourism industry and cultural initiatives.

Cold Weather and Thunderstorms Grip Thailand Thailand is experiencing a mix of cold weather in the north and thunderstorms in the south due to a moderate high-pressure system and monsoon effects. Mountainous areas are very cold, with temperatures as low as 4°C, and frost possible in some regions. In contrast, the south faces isolated thunderstorms and high sea waves exceeding 2 meters. Bangkok and central regions are chilly, with lows around 21°C. Mariners are advised to exercise caution, particularly in storm-prone areas. Dust levels remain moderate, and precautions are recommended for cold and dry conditions to prevent fire hazards.

A Tourist Prevented from Releasing Sky A Lantern in Chiang Mai A Japanese tourist in Chiang Mai was stopped by a patrol officer from releasing a sky lantern during New Year celebrations on December 31. The tourist, upset by the intervention, grabbed the officer’s collar, prompting the officer to knock the lantern from his hand to prevent a safety hazard. Despite the confrontation, the officer remained calm, explained the safety regulations, and eventually received an apology from the tourist. Praised for his patience and professionalism, the officer’s actions ensured safety without escalating the situation. A video of the incident shared on TikTok has since drawn significant attention online.

Norwegian Tourist Assaulted by Ride-Hailing Driver in Phuket A Norwegian tourist, Egil Christian Andresen, was assaulted by a ride-hailing driver in Phuket on December 30 after a disagreement over the destination. The driver reportedly struck Andresen with a sign, causing injuries to his face, temple, and elbows. Andresen, who has over 30 years of taxi driving experience in Norway, expressed shock at the incident, contrasting it with the strict standards for drivers in his home country. The victim has filed a police report, providing CCTV evidence, while authorities investigate the case. The incident has raised concerns about passenger safety and driver conduct in Phuket.

Thailand's New Year Road Tragedies: Over 200 Lives Lost in Five Days Thailand’s roads have claimed 215 lives just five days into the “10 Dangerous Days” New Year road safety campaign, with 1,398 accidents and 1,354 injuries recorded from December 27 to 31, 2024. Motorcycles were involved in nearly 90% of incidents, with speeding, drink-driving, and reckless overtaking as leading causes. Highways and local roads saw the most accidents, particularly during late-night and evening hours. Young adults aged 20–29 were the most affected group. Authorities are responding with checkpoints and enforcement as millions travel home post-celebrations, emphasizing road safety to reduce further tragedies.

Bangkok Hotel Fire Claims Lives of Three Foreign Nationals A fire at Bangkok’s Ember Hotel near the popular Khao San Road killed three foreign nationals, including an American and a Brazilian woman, while injuring seven others, including five foreigners. Firefighters arrived quickly and rescued 75 people, but the cause of the blaze remains under investigation. Bangkok's governor ordered the hotel’s closure and inspection of its alarm system. This incident adds to concerns over Thailand’s lax safety regulations in bars and hotels, following similar fires in recent months. Authorities are preparing for heightened safety as 1.5 million tourists are expected for New Year celebrations.

Fireworks Spark Blaze at Bang Saen Beach Restaurant A devastating fire broke out at a famous restaurant on Bang Saen Beach, believed to have been sparked by embers from New Year countdown fireworks. The thatched roof and wooden decorations fueled the flames, causing extensive damage despite firefighters' efforts to control the blaze within 30 minutes. Police and forensic investigators are examining the scene to confirm the cause and take legal action if necessary. The incident highlights safety concerns during festive celebrations.

The transcription below features news stories from Thailand and across Asia, as presented on Good Morning Thailand by hosts Alex and Jay. The stories cover a range of topics, from Thailand's New Year road tragedies, which claimed over 200 lives, to Indonesia's ban on iPhone 16 and Google Pixel sales. 1. Thailand's New Year Road Tragedies: Over 200 Lives Lost 215 people have died in Thailand's first five days of the “10 Dangerous Days” campaign, with over 1,398 accidents reported. Authorities urge caution as millions return home post-New Year celebrations. 2. Bangkok Hotel Fire Claims Three Foreign Lives A tragic blaze at the Ember Hotel near Khao San Road killed three foreigners and injured seven others. Investigations are ongoing as safety concerns in bars and hotels resurface. 3. Norwegian Tourist Assaulted by Driver in Phuket A Norwegian tourist was attacked by a ride-hailing driver after a dispute in Phuket, sparking concerns over passenger safety. Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage. 4. Fireworks Blaze Destroys Bang Saen Beach Restaurant New Year fireworks sparked a fire that devastated a restaurant on Bang Saen Beach. Police and forensic teams are investigating the cause. 5. Officer Stops Tourist's Sky Lantern Mishap in Chiang Mai A Japanese tourist clashed with an officer who stopped him from releasing a sky lantern. The officer’s calm response ensured safety during New Year celebrations. 6. Cold and Stormy Weather Grips Thailand Northern Thailand faces freezing temperatures while the south deals with thunderstorms and high seas. Mariners and residents are advised to exercise caution. 7. Indonesia Bans iPhone 16 and Google Pixel Sales Indonesia blocks iPhone 16 and Google Pixel sales over local sourcing rules, sparking frustration among tech enthusiasts and concerns over trade impacts. 8. Google and Musk’s X Miss Malaysia Licensing Deadline Malaysia’s social media licensing rules face mixed compliance. Google and X missed the deadline, while platforms like TikTok and Telegram are in the clear. 9. Russia Targets Japan and South Korea in Leaked Plans Leaked documents reveal Russian plans to target 160 sites in Japan and South Korea, raising global concerns over potential war crimes and rising tensions. 10. Leila de Lima Eyes Political Comeback in the Philippines After six years of wrongful imprisonment, Philippine critic Leila de Lima announces her 2025 political run, advocating justice for victims of Duterte’s drug war.