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Thai Senate Approves Landmark Ban on Violent Child Discipline Thailand's Senate has unanimously approved an amendment to Section 1567 of the Civil and Commercial Code, prohibiting abusive or harmful parental punishment. This landmark decision aligns with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, emphasizing disciplinary measures that protect a child's physical and mental well-being and uphold their dignity. Parents can still guide their children but must avoid violence or harm. The amendment, aimed at curbing domestic violence and fostering child protection, now awaits approval from Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and royal assent for enactment.

Police Apologize with Sit-ups After Bangkok Cop’s Gun Incident The Thong Lo Police Station apologized for misconduct after Police Sergeant Major Montri Meedate fired a gun outside a Bangkok nightclub on December 14. Montri, intoxicated and denied entry, argued with security and fired a shot into the sky, sparking public outrage. Superintendent Phansa Amaraphithak accepted responsibility, suspended Montri, and ordered all 140 officers, including himself, to perform 10 sit-ups as a public apology. Officers were also reminded about firearm rules and alcohol risks. Montri, released on 150,000 baht bail, faces charges for illegal gun possession, carrying a firearm in public, firing without reason, and causing fear.

Thailand’s Anti-Corruption Commission Probes Thaksin Hospital Scandal Thailand's National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has launched a probe into allegations that officials helped former PM Thaksin Shinawatra avoid prison by faking illness, allowing him to stay at Police Hospital. The investigation targets officials from the Corrections Department, Bangkok Remand Prison, and Police Hospital. Critics argue this reflects Thaksin’s enduring political influence and raises concerns about preferential treatment and judicial integrity. Thaksin, convicted of power abuse and recently returned from 17 years in exile, has been accused of orchestrating political moves during his hospital stay, including shaping Thailand's ruling coalition. The case highlights ongoing tensions between politics, power, and justice in Thailand.

Bangkok’s Asiatique to Unveil Jurassic Theme Park Bangkok’s Asiatique night market is set to unveil The Jurassic World: The Experience, the world’s largest Jurassic theme park, by mid-2025. Spanning 6,000 square meters and backed by a 1.4 billion baht investment, the park will feature roaring dinosaurs, themed zones with shops and restaurants, and a giant dinosaur egg landmark. Developed by Asset World Corporation in collaboration with Universal Live Events and Neon, the attraction aims to recreate the Jurassic era and boost sustainable tourism. With affordable entry fees and three future phases planned, the park is expected to draw massive crowds as Asiatique visitor numbers near pre-Covid levels.

The transcription below features news stories from Thailand and across Asia, covering topics from the Jurassic Theme Park at Asiatique to Thailand joining NASA’s Artemis Accords. 1. Jurassic Theme Park at Asiatique Bangkok's Asiatique night market is set to unveil "The Jurassic World: The Experience," the world’s largest Jurassic theme park, by mid-2025. Spanning 6,000 square meters, the park will feature roaring dinosaurs, themed zones, and a giant dinosaur egg, aiming to boost sustainable tourism and attract massive crowds. 2. Thaksin Hospital Scandal Investigation Thailand’s Anti-Corruption Commission has launched a probe into claims that officials helped former PM Thaksin Shinawatra avoid prison through alleged hospital stay manipulation, highlighting tensions between politics, power, and justice. 3. Bangkok Cop's Gun Incident Apology After a Bangkok policeman fired a gun outside a nightclub, the Thong Lo Police Station issued a public apology with officers performing sit-ups. The cop faces charges, and rules on firearm use and alcohol were reiterated. 4. Landmark Ban on Violent Child Discipline Thailand’s Senate has approved a law banning abusive parental punishment, aligning with UN child protection standards. The amendment awaits final approval before becoming law. 5. Mysterious Sky Rocks in Phatthalung A Thai couple claims mysterious black rocks found in their plantation improved their health. Locals are curious, but safety concerns arise as no official examination has been conducted. 6. Thailand Joins NASA’s Artemis Accords Thailand is now the 51st nation to sign the Artemis Accords, committing to responsible space exploration and collaboration in NASA’s Moon and beyond missions. 7. Vietnam’s Bold Bureaucratic Reforms Vietnam plans to streamline its government by merging or cutting ministries and agencies, aiming to reduce red tape but raising concerns about short-term delays during the transition. 8. Indonesia Strengthens Ties with Egypt Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto attended the D-8 Summit in Egypt to boost economic cooperation and reinforce military ties, further solidifying Indonesia’s global presence. 9. Philippines-Japan Military Pact The Philippines and Japan have signed a military agreement to enhance joint combat training and disaster response, addressing regional concerns over China’s growing influence. 10. South Korea’s Impeached President Investigation Investigators failed again to raid South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol’s office for martial law evidence. Amid political turmoil, Acting President Han Duck-soo focuses on economic stabilization.

Thaksin to Become Informal Advisor to Malaysian PM for ASEAN Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim has appointed former Thai PM Thaksin Shinawatra as an informal advisor for Malaysia's ASEAN chairmanship in 2025. The announcement was made during a meeting with Thailand's PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra, where they discussed boosting bilateral ties, tourism collaboration, and border infrastructure. Key topics included aligning tourism campaigns, Thailand’s Six Countries, One Destination single-visa proposal, and constructing a new bridge linking Narathiwat (Thailand) and Kelantan (Malaysia). Both nations aim to increase bilateral trade to $30 billion by 2027. Thailand also supports Malaysia’s initiative to address the Myanmar crisis during its ASEAN leadership.

Swiss Tourist Attacked by Local Youths in Pattaya A 66-year-old Swiss tourist, Manoutcher Kamel Kamai, was attacked by a group of local youths in Pattaya on December 15. After parking his car on South Pattaya Road, he found 4-6 teenagers smashing his SUV’s windows with rocks. When he intervened, two assailants physically assaulted him, leaving him injured. The attack only stopped when a passerby intervened, causing the gang to flee. Mr. Kamai reported the incident to the police, who are now reviewing CCTV footage and gathering evidence to locate and arrest the suspects.

Thailand Targets Tougher Alcohol Laws to Align with Global Norms Thailand is advancing the Alcoholic Beverage Control Bill to align with global norms, with parliamentary deliberation expected in January. Key changes include potential revisions to alcohol sales hours while maintaining the ban on round-the-clock sales. The bill will establish provincial committees to enforce age restrictions and address alcohol-related risks, such as drinking games and drink-driving. Anti-alcohol groups and officials stress stricter controls, particularly during New Year celebrations, citing binge drinking and drink-driving as major issues. Experts warn extended sales hours could worsen road safety, advocating for tougher penalties for DUI offenses.

Thailand Accelerates Universal Healthcare Coverage Nationwide Thailand's Health Ministry is expanding the 30 Baht for Healthcare Anywhere programme nationwide, targeting full implementation by the end of 2024. Currently active in 46 provinces, the initiative will officially launch nationwide on December 25, led by PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra. The programme integrates digital health technologies, streamlining patient referrals and improving efficiency. Evolving from its original 30 baht scheme, patients now receive treatment across locations without payment. Future reforms will address biosafety, elderly care, and referral systems, marking a significant transformation in Thailand's universal healthcare strategy.

Thai Man Stabbed to Death After Traffic Dispute in Bangkok A 23-year-old Thai man, Apiwit, was fatally stabbed outside a condominium on Rama II Soi 54 in Bangkok on December 15 following a traffic dispute. The altercation began as motorcyclists cut in front of each other and escalated into a physical fight. During the scuffle, the suspect stabbed Apiwit in the chest and fled the scene. Apiwit initially walked into the condominium before collapsing and later died despite CPR efforts. Police are reviewing security footage to identify the suspect, while an autopsy is underway before Apiwit’s body is returned to his family.

Tourist Found Dead after Full Moon party in Koh Phangan A tourist was found dead near the Hin Song Kon 7-Eleven store in Koh Phangan on December 16. Koh Phangan Police and rescue teams responded to the scene at 7:20 AM and confirmed there were no signs of violence. The body was taken to Koh Phangan Hospital for autopsy, and authorities are awaiting further instructions from the embassy. The tourist carried a New South Wales driver’s license under the name C. Boucher, 37, though identity confirmation is ongoing. The investigation continues, with authorities ensuring cooperation with the embassy and adherence to international protocols.

The transcription below features news stories from across Thailand and ASEAN, presented by Alex on the Good Morning Thailand program. Highlights include Thailand's proposal for stricter alcohol laws and Malaysia's launch of Proton’s first electric vehicle. 1. Tourist Found Dead After Full Moon Party in Koh Phangan A 37-year-old tourist was found dead near a 7-Eleven in Koh Phangan on December 16. No signs of violence were reported, and an autopsy is underway. Authorities are working with the embassy to confirm the tourist’s identity and ensure international protocol compliance. 2. Thai Man Stabbed to Death After Traffic Dispute in Bangkok A 23-year-old man was fatally stabbed during a traffic altercation outside a condominium on Rama II Road in Bangkok. Police are reviewing CCTV footage to identify the suspect as investigations continue. 3. Swiss Tourist Attacked by Local Youths in Pattaya A Swiss tourist was assaulted by local youths in Pattaya after trying to stop them from smashing his car windows. Police are reviewing evidence to track down the suspects involved in the December 15 attack. 4. Thaksin to Advise Malaysian PM for ASEAN Leadership Former Thai PM Thaksin Shinawatra will serve as an informal advisor to Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim for ASEAN leadership in 2025. Discussions included boosting tourism and trade ties between the two nations. 5. Thailand Proposes Stricter Alcohol Laws Thailand is advancing a new Alcohol Control Bill, including potential changes to sales hours and stricter regulations on drink-driving and alcohol-related risks. The bill is set for parliamentary debate in January. 6. Universal Healthcare to Expand Nationwide in Thailand Thailand will launch its “30 Baht for Healthcare Anywhere” programme nationwide on December 25. The initiative integrates digital health technologies to improve access and efficiency across provinces. 7. Filipina Avoids Indonesian Firing Squad, Returns Home Mary Jane Veloso, a Filipina who escaped execution in Indonesia in 2015, will return home after 15 years in prison. She was spared after her recruiter, who duped her into carrying drugs, was arrested in the Philippines. 8. Malaysia’s Proton Launches First EV Proton has entered the electric vehicle market with the e.MAS 7, priced from 109,800 MYR. Malaysia aims to make EVs and hybrids 20% of car sales by 2030, supported by a 112% surge in early 2024 sales. 9. India to Supply LNG and Power to Sri Lanka India plans to supply LNG to Sri Lanka, connect power grids, and develop wind power projects in the Palk Straits. Discussions also include debt restructuring agreements following India’s $4 billion aid to Sri Lanka.

Thai Teacher Accused of Striking Child with Steel Ruler A Thai mother in Prachin Buri accused a teacher of striking her 3-year-old son's penis with a steel ruler, causing severe injury. The boy revealed the alleged punishment occurred after he tore his book in class. Medical examinations confirmed bruising and inflammation, contradicting the teacher's claim that the injury happened outside school. Despite filing a police complaint, delays arose due to pending medical documentation. Classroom security footage reportedly showed no evidence, and the teacher claimed the incident happened on a school holiday. The mother has turned to the media to seek justice as investigations continue.

British Man Arrested for Robbing Tourists in Pattaya A 31-year-old British man, identified as Jordan, was arrested in Pattaya for stealing jewellery from tourists. CCTV footage captured him snatching necklaces in two incidents: an Iranian tourist on December 8 along Soi Buakhao and an Indian tourist near Soi Yen Sabai, the latter valued at over 200,000 THB. Police arrested Jordan at his Bang Saray residence on December 13 after identifying him through his distinctive tattoos and muscular build. He remains silent on the charges, while authorities pursue his accomplice. Jordan faces up to five years in prison or a 100,000 THB fine for the crimes.

Drunk Driver Causes Chaos in Pattaya, Injures Two An intoxicated driver caused chaos in Pattaya, crashing a minivan into a motorcycle sidecar selling vegetables on Pattaya Beach Road. Attempting to flee, the driver collided with several parked vehicles, injuring two people, including a vegetable vendor. Bystanders detained the visibly incoherent driver, whose blood alcohol level exceeded the legal limit. Police and rescue teams responded, transporting the injured to the hospital. The driver, approximately 30 years old, faces legal proceedings for the incident.

German Man Rescued from Balcony Incident in Pattaya Pattaya rescue workers saved a distressed 58-year-old German man who attempted to harm himself and jump from a fifth-floor hotel balcony on Soi Pattaya Beach Road 13. The dramatic incident unfolded on December 14, with rescue teams intervening to restrain the man and provide first aid for severe head injuries before rushing him to the hospital. Hotel staff, alerted by loud shouting, forced the door open to find the man at the balcony edge. Police are investigating the incident, while the man receives medical care. The quick response likely prevented a tragedy.

Grenade Attack at Thailand Fair Leaves 3 Dead, 48 Injured A grenade attack at the Amazing Highland Land Fair in Tak province left three dead and 48 injured late last night. The explosion occurred near a crowded stage, sparking panic among over 8,000 attendees. Police identified the suspects as a Thai national and a Karen National Union member, targeting a rival group over a past feud. Emergency responders quickly transported victims to the hospital. The incident has prompted heightened nationwide security and a review of public event safety protocols. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra expressed condolences and called for urgent action.

Saudi Couple Rescued After Jet Ski Capsizes Off Jomtien Beach A Saudi couple faced a life-threatening situation when their Jet Ski capsized off Jomtien Beach, leaving them stranded at sea for five hours. Alamri Abdulrahman Mahdi swam to shore to seek help, prompting rescue teams to locate his wife, Alamri Atheer Saeed, floating 2 kilometres offshore. Both were wearing life vests, which kept them buoyant. The couple’s emotional reunion on the beach drew applause from onlookers, highlighting the rescue team’s quick response and efforts.

The transcription below features news stories from Thailand and across Asia, as presented on the Good Morning Thailand program hosted by Alex. Highlights include a grenade attack at a fair in Thailand and the return of the remaining 'Bali Nine' members to Australia. 1. Grenade Attack at Thailand Fair Leaves 3 Dead, 48 Injured A grenade explosion at the Amazing Highland Land Fair in Tak province killed three and injured 48, causing widespread panic among over 8,000 attendees. Suspects include a Thai national and a Karen National Union member. Authorities are enhancing security nationwide and reviewing public event safety protocols. 2. Drunk Driver Causes Chaos in Pattaya, Injures Two An intoxicated driver in Pattaya crashed into a motorcycle sidecar and multiple parked vehicles, injuring two. Witnesses detained the driver, who was incoherent and above the legal alcohol limit. The injured are hospitalized, and the driver faces legal action. 3. German Man Rescued from Balcony Incident in Pattaya Pattaya rescue teams saved a distressed 58-year-old German man attempting to jump from a fifth-floor balcony. The man, who sustained head injuries, was rushed to the hospital. Police are investigating the incident, and medical care is ongoing. 4. Saudi Couple Rescued After Jet Ski Capsizes Off Jomtien Beach Stranded at sea for five hours, a Saudi couple was rescued after their Jet Ski capsized. Rescue teams found the wife floating 2 km offshore. The couple reunited on the beach to applause, emphasizing the swift response of the rescue team. 5. British Man Arrested for Robbing Tourists in Pattaya A British man was arrested in Pattaya for stealing jewellery worth over 200,000 THB from tourists. CCTV footage and distinct tattoos led police to the suspect, who remains silent. Authorities continue to investigate his accomplice. 6. Thai Teacher Accused of Striking Child with Steel Ruler A Prachin Buri teacher is accused of injuring a 3-year-old boy with a steel ruler as punishment. Medical reports contradict the teacher’s denial. The child’s mother has filed a complaint as investigations continue amid claims of insufficient evidence. 7. South Korean President Impeached Over Martial Law Declaration South Korea's parliament impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol over his martial law declaration. Protests erupted, accusing him of treason. Prime Minister Han Duck-soo is acting president as the Constitutional Court reviews the case. 8. Singapore Executes Iranian-Singaporean Despite Protests Singapore executed Iranian-Singaporean Masoud Rahimi Mehrzad for drug trafficking despite global opposition. Activists condemn the capital punishment policy as unjust, while the government defends it as a deterrent. 9. Remaining 'Bali Nine' Members Return to Australia After 19 Years Five "Bali Nine" members returned to Australia after serving 19 years in Indonesian prisons. Arrested for heroin smuggling in 2005, their repatriation underscores strong Australia-Indonesia ties. Rehabilitation efforts are ongoing. 10. US Navy Warship to Make First Port Call in Cambodia in 8 Years The USS Savannah is set to dock in Cambodia’s Sihanoukville port, marking the first U.S. Navy visit in eight years. The port call aims to strengthen ties despite concerns over Cambodia's naval cooperation with China.

Thousands of Brits Relocate to Thailand for a Better Life Over 40,000 British citizens have moved to Thailand, trading the UK’s cold, gloomy weather for the tropical paradise known as the Land of Smiles. Relocations have soared by 255% since 2018, driven by incentives like Thailand's Long-Term Residence (LTR) visa, offering 10-year residency with tax exemptions. Popular destinations include Phuket, Krabi, and Pattaya, known for their pristine beaches, cultural landmarks, and vibrant lifestyles. Bangkok also offers stunning temples, river cruises, and a rich history. With its warm climate, welcoming culture, and modern amenities, Thailand continues to attract Brits seeking a brighter, sunnier life abroad.

Thai Woman Arrested in Japan for Smuggling Cocaine Worth 6 Million Baht A 23-year-old Thai woman was arrested at Kansai International Airport in Osaka for attempting to smuggle 760 grams of cocaine, valued at 27 million yen (around 8 million baht), into Japan. Officials grew suspicious due to her minimal belongings and unusual stitching on her backpack, which concealed the drugs. The woman had traveled from Malaysia via China. Japanese authorities are investigating potential accomplices but have not disclosed whether the suspect admitted to the crime.

Indian Tourist Robbed of Gold Necklace in Pattaya An Indian tourist, Merlin Dhanapalan, fell victim to a bold robbery on Pattaya Second Road near Soi Yensabai early on December 12. Two masked suspects on a motorcycle violently snatched a gold necklace worth 210,000 baht from his neck. The robbery, captured on CCTV, shows the suspects toppling their motorcycle during the struggle but ultimately fleeing—one on foot and the other on the recovered bike. Pattaya police are analyzing the footage and urging the public for any information to aid their investigation. The incident highlights growing concerns over tourist safety in the area.

Nigerian Tourist Arrested in Bangkok Over Online Prostitution Thai tourist police arrested a 21-year-old Nigerian man, referred to as Mr. John, during a sting operation near Thephasadin Stadium in Bangkok. Accused of advertising sexual services online for 12,000 baht, he admitted to offering these services as a way to supplement his income during his visit. Police seized his mobile phone containing incriminating evidence and charged him with soliciting prostitution. Authorities are investigating whether he acted alone or as part of a larger network, reaffirming their commitment to curbing illegal activities and preserving Thailand’s reputation as a safe tourist destination.

Fire Disrupts Pattaya Spa, No Injuries Reported A fire broke out yesterday morning at a popular spa on Pattaya Third Road, prompting swift action by firefighters and local rescue teams. Thick smoke from the ground-floor storage room caused panic, but the blaze was quickly extinguished, leaving no injuries. The fire damaged electrical outlets and melted an air conditioning compressor. Staff reported discovering the smoke just before opening and called for help immediately. Initial investigations point to an electrical short circuit as the cause, with officials emphasizing the need for regular maintenance to prevent future incidents.

Russian Tourist in Underwear Clashes with Thai Police in Phuket A Russian tourist, dressed only in underwear, caused a chaotic scene on a Phuket shopping street, engaging in a bizarre standoff with Thai police. Captured in a viral video with over 200,000 views on X (formerly Twitter), the man, agitated and accompanied by his family, resisted arrest with shadow boxing and erratic behavior. Attempts to subdue him failed, leading to speculation and humor online, likening the scene to an '80s action movie. Local authorities have not yet clarified the circumstances, but the incident underscores the unpredictability of policing in tourist hotspots and the need to respect local laws.