Video News

Viral Optimus Prime Creator Clashes with Bangkok Bar Over Donations A Thai creator of a viral Optimus Prime figure, “Seng”, clashed with a Bangkok bar, Hypnotized, over a donation dispute. The bar gained attention after posting viral videos of offerings to the figure, sparking public worship and city intervention. Seng, who builds figures from spare engine parts, launched a donation campaign for two new creations. When Hypnotized declined to contribute, Seng erupted in anger, cursing staff and wishing misfortune upon them. He later defended his reaction, claiming other businesses had donated without issue. The bar’s owner has since apologized, but tensions remain.

Thailand Lifts Decades-Old Student Hairstyle Restrictions Thailand’s Supreme Administrative Court has annulled a decades-old rule restricting student hairstyles, marking a victory for personal freedoms in education. The regulation, imposed in 1975 under a military order, mandated short hair for boys and restricted girls from growing their hair past their ears. The court ruled it unconstitutional and misaligned with student welfare. The decision follows a 2020 petition by students challenging the rule. Schools now have autonomy over hairstyle policies, though concerns remain about resistance from traditionalist educators. This ruling signals a broader shift in Thailand’s approach to personal freedoms in education.

World Record-Holding Thai Couple Splits After Decade-Long Romance Thai couple Ekkachai and Laksana Tiranarat, who set the Guinness World Record for the longest kiss in 2013 with a 58-hour, 35-minute smooch, have now separated after more than a decade together. Ekkachai confirmed the split, saying he is proud of their achievement and cherishes the memories. Their record-breaking kiss, held at Ripley’s Believe It or Not! in Pattaya, was a grueling endurance test, with rules requiring them to remain locked in a kiss even during bathroom breaks. Guinness retired the category in 2013 due to health risks, making them the final holders of the title, even if their love story has now ended.

Phuket Taxi Driver Confronts Russian Tourists Over Unpaid Fare A Thai taxi driver in Phuket chased after a Russian couple who allegedly fled without paying their fare upon arrival. Despite catching up with them, the couple still refused to pay, with the Russian woman even waving dismissively at the driver. A video of the altercation went viral, drawing criticism from Thai netizens, some of whom shared similar experiences of fare dodging by Russian tourists. Others speculated that the driver might have overcharged or that a dispute occurred before payment was refused. The media has not confirmed whether the driver eventually received his fare.

Pattaya Knife Attack Over Cigarette Smoke Leaves Cambodian Man Injured A late-night altercation in Pattaya turned violent when a Chinese restaurant worker allegedly attacked a 24-year-old Cambodian man, Hin, with a knife, seriously injuring him. The dispute reportedly began when Hin blew cigarette smoke in the suspect’s face despite warnings. Enraged, the attacker slashed him in the left shoulder, leaving him critically wounded. Police arrested the suspect, who remained at the scene and brazenly admitted to the attack, flashing a peace sign to reporters. He is now in custody at Pattaya City Police Station, facing serious assault charges. The incident highlights concerns over alcohol-fueled violence in Pattaya’s nightlife.

Thai Police Arrest Nigerian Duo Linked to Cocaine Smuggling Thai immigration police arrested two Nigerian nationals, Mr. Ihejimba Bright Chimezie and Mr. Azubuike Chidiebere David, in a Bangkok condominium for allegedly being linked to an international cocaine smuggling operation. The arrests followed the detention of a Thai woman in Japan, who attempted to smuggle 700 grams of cocaine by ingesting 59 packets. Authorities suspect the Nigerians were involved in drug trafficking, as investigations connected them to the woman's activities. The duo was also charged with overstaying their visas. Thai police, in collaboration with Japan's Immigration Bureau and the Narcotics Control Board, are continuing legal proceedings and further investigations.

The transcription below covers news stories from Thailand and across Southeast Asia, ranging from the arrest of two Nigerians linked to a cocaine smuggling operation in Thailand to Indonesia’s use of cloud seeding to combat severe flooding in Jakarta. 1. Thai Police Arrest Nigerian Duo for Cocaine Smuggling Thai police arrested two Nigerian men in Bangkok for alleged links to an international cocaine smuggling ring. Their arrest follows the detention of a Thai woman in Japan, caught with 700 grams of cocaine. Both men were also charged with visa overstays. 2. Pattaya Knife Attack Over Cigarette Smoke A Chinese restaurant worker in Pattaya allegedly stabbed a Cambodian man after a dispute over cigarette smoke. The suspect, who remained at the scene and made a peace sign to reporters, has been arrested and faces serious assault charges. 3. Phuket Taxi Driver Confronts Russian Tourists Over Unpaid Fare A Phuket taxi driver chased down a Russian couple who allegedly fled without paying. A viral video of the altercation sparked online debate, with some blaming the tourists and others questioning the fare. 4. World Record-Holding Thai Couple Splits Thai couple Ekkachai and Laksana Tiranarat, who set the Guinness World Record for the longest kiss in 2013, have separated after more than a decade together. Their record remains unbeaten, as Guinness retired the category due to health concerns. 5. Chinese Nationals Arrested for Cambodian Teen’s Murder Cambodian police arrested two Chinese men for the murder of an 18-year-old casino worker found buried in Phnom Penh. A third suspect remains at large, while the arrested pair have been sent to court. 6. Indonesia Uses Cloud Seeding to Combat Jakarta Flooding Indonesian authorities are using cloud seeding to reduce rainfall after severe Jakarta floods left one dead and displaced 2,200 people. Floodwaters submerged over 1,000 homes, and officials warn bad weather may persist until March 11.

Thailand Eases Booze Ban for Tourists on Buddhist Holy Days Thailand will maintain its alcohol ban on five major Buddhist holy days but introduce exceptions to support tourism. The Alcoholic Beverage Board approved sales in international airports, tourist zones, hotels, and event venues. The new regulations are expected before Visakha Bucha Day on May 11. Deputy PM Prasert Chantararuangthong emphasized balancing tradition and tourism while ensuring public safety. The board is also reviewing online alcohol sales. Public feedback will be collected before the proposal goes to the Prime Minister for final approval and publication in the Royal Gazette.

Bangkok Tuk-Tuk Race Ends in Crash, Three Injured A late-night tuk-tuk race in Bangkok ended in a violent crash on Ratchadaphisek Road, leaving three people seriously injured. One driver, 28-year-old Pichit, sustained a severe head injury, while the other driver and his passenger suffered broken legs. Witnesses reported the tuk-tuks were racing and collided when one made a risky lane change, causing it to flip. Police are investigating and awaiting blood alcohol test results. The incident raises concerns about reckless driving, with locals calling for stricter traffic enforcement to prevent similar accidents.

Koh Pha Ngan Police Criticized Over Foreign Cannabis Theft A Koh Pha Ngan cannabis shop owner, Jariya Kamonrat, has accused local police of ignoring a theft involving two foreign customers. CCTV footage from Monkey’s Dispensary shows one suspect stealing a jar of cannabis worth over 6,000 baht while the other distracted Jariya. Despite reporting the theft with video evidence, police allegedly dismissed her case, saying they couldn't act without the suspects' names. Frustrated, Jariya turned to social media, offering a reward for information. The case has sparked criticism of police inaction and raised concerns about crime involving tourists in Thailand’s growing cannabis market.

Thailand Bets Big on Songkran Tourism Boost Thailand is set to host the Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2025, investing 153 million baht to boost tourism. The event, held at Sanam Luang in Bangkok from April 11-15, aims to attract 800,000 visitors and generate 3.2 billion baht in tourist spending. Approved by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the initiative highlights Thailand’s rich culture and New Year traditions, reinforcing its position as a top travel destination during the festive season.

The transcription below features news stories from across Thailand and Southeast Asia, as presented in the Good Morning Thailand program, hosted by Alex and Jay. The stories cover a range of topics, from Thailand easing its alcohol ban for tourists on Buddhist holidays to the country's consideration of a border wall to combat scam gangs. 1. Thailand Eases Alcohol Ban for Tourists on Buddhist Holidays Thailand will allow alcohol sales in tourist zones, hotels, and airports on Buddhist holy days, except for five major ones. The new rules aim to balance tradition and tourism, with implementation expected before Visakha Bucha Day on May 11. 2. Bangkok Tuk Tuk Race Ends in Crash A late-night tuk-tuk race in Bangkok ended in a crash on Ratchadaphisek Road, seriously injuring three people. Police are investigating, with locals calling for stricter traffic enforcement. 3. Koh Pha Ngan Police Criticized Over Cannabis Theft Case A Koh Pha Ngan dispensary owner claims police ignored a theft by foreign customers caught on CCTV. Frustrated, she turned to social media, sparking criticism of police inaction. 4. Thailand Bets on Songkran Tourism Boost Thailand is investing 153 million baht in the Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2025 to attract 800,000 visitors and generate 3.2 billion baht in tourism revenue. 5. Malaysia’s Ex-PM Declares Wealth Amid Corruption Probe Former Malaysian PM Ismail Sabri Yaakob has declared his assets amid an investigation into government spending. Authorities have seized $40 million in cash and gold bars. 6. Jakarta Floods Displace Thousands Severe flooding in Jakarta has forced thousands to evacuate, with water levels reaching 3 meters. Authorities warn heavy rain may continue until March 11. 7. Thailand Considers Border Wall to Combat Scam Gangs Thailand is exploring a border wall with Cambodia to prevent illegal crossings linked to scam operations. The proposal follows a major crackdown on human trafficking and fraud.

British Tourist Knocked Unconscious by Pattaya Club Bouncer A 62-year-old British tourist was knocked unconscious by a security guard on Pattaya’s Walking Street after an altercation around 11:30 p.m. Video footage shows the tourist initiating the confrontation before the guard delivered a single punch, causing him to hit his head on the pavement. The guard then disappeared into the crowd. Despite local authorities’ efforts to improve tourism safety, violent incidents involving security staff persist. This follows multiple past assaults, raising concerns about club security practices and police handling of such cases in Pattaya.

The White Lotus Season 3 Sparks Travel Boom to Thailand The White Lotus Season 3, filmed at the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, has sparked a major tourism boom in Thailand. The hit HBO series, known for its opulent resorts and satirical take on wealth and power, has fueled a "set-jetting" trend—where travelers visit destinations featured in their favorite shows. Since the announcement of its Thailand location, flight searches to Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Koh Samui have surged, with Koh Samui seeing a 30% increase. Hotel searches for the Four Seasons Resort jumped 65%, highlighting the show's real-world impact on travel.

Russian Man Found Dead in Phuket Amid Possible Drug Link Investigation A 41-year-old Russian man was found dead in a residence in Koh Kaew, Phuket, on March 2. His girlfriend discovered his body around 6pm, with police alerted two hours later. No signs of assault were found, but a syringe, white powder, a teaspoon, and a lighter were near the body. Authorities suspect possible drug involvement and are analyzing the substance to determine its role in his death. Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Scottish Expat Dies in Lopburi Quad Bike Crash, Raising Road Safety Concerns A 62-year-old Scottish expat tragically died in a quad bike accident on a Lopburi motorway flyover in the early hours of March 1. The retired oil rig worker, a well-known Rotary Club member, lost control, skidded, and crashed into a concrete barrier, falling 30 feet to his death. Authorities discovered skid marks and wreckage at the scene. His passing has reignited concerns over Thailand’s high road fatality rate, with calls for stronger safety measures and stricter enforcement of traffic laws to prevent further tragedies.

The transcription below features news stories from Thailand and across Southeast Asia, as presented in the Good Morning Thailand program, hosted by Alex and Jay. Topics range from the tragic death of a Scottish expat in a quad bike crash in Lopburi, raising road safety concerns, to Indonesia experiencing its first deflation in 24 years due to government subsidies. 1. Scottish Expat Dies in Lopburi Quad Bike Crash, Raising Road Safety Concerns A 62-year-old Scottish expat died in a quad bike accident on a Lopburi motorway flyover, falling 30 feet to his death. His tragic passing has reignited concerns over Thailand’s high road fatality rate, prompting calls for stricter traffic safety measures. 2. Russian Man Found Dead in Phuket, Possible Drug Link A 41-year-old Russian man was found dead in a Phuket residence, with drug-related items near his body. Authorities are investigating possible drug involvement as they analyze the substance found at the scene. 3. British Tourist Knocked Unconscious by Pattaya Club Bouncer A 62-year-old British tourist was knocked unconscious by a Pattaya club bouncer after an altercation on Walking Street. The incident raises ongoing concerns over club security and law enforcement in the city. 4. The White Lotus Season 3 Sparks Thailand Travel Boom The hit HBO series The White Lotus has fueled a surge in tourism to Thailand, with Koh Samui seeing a 30% rise in flight searches and Four Seasons Resort bookings spiking 65%. 5. Philippines Investigates Donations from Suspected Chinese Spies The Philippines is probing donations from four Chinese nationals accused of espionage, aiming to prevent foreign interference amid rising tensions over security and territorial disputes. 6. Indonesia Records First Deflation in 24 Years Indonesia saw its first deflation in over two decades, driven by government subsidies on electricity and food. Inflation is expected to rise again in March as subsidies expire.

Thailand Cracks Down on Illegal Foreign Makeup Teachers Thailand is cracking down on illegal foreign workers in reserved professions, particularly unauthorized makeup teachers. In a recent operation in Bangkok’s Phra Nakhon area, officials found two Chinese nationals illegally working as makeup teachers at a Thai costume rental shop. They were detained and handed over to police. Employers face fines of up to 200,000 baht and possible hiring bans for repeat violations. The Department of Employment urges the public to report illegal foreign labor through official hotlines, reinforcing efforts to protect Thai workers’ rights and ensure fair employment practices.

Japanese Man Arrested with Ecstasy in Bangkok Mall A 31-year-old Japanese man, Masato Omichi, was arrested by Thonglor police in a Bangkok shopping center on March 1 for allegedly possessing ecstasy. Acting on a tip-off, officers found him behaving suspiciously near a restroom and discovered four ecstasy tablets in his bag. Omichi admitted to buying the drugs from an unknown dealer to experiment but was detained before use. A urine test showed no other drugs in his system. He has been charged with illegal possession of a Category 1 narcotic and is now in police custody for further legal action.

Phuket Tightens Immigration Controls Amid Crime Wave Phuket has tightened immigration enforcement in response to rising drug-related crimes and illegal employment among foreigners. In 2023, 998 foreigners were deported, with 194 losing their visas. Authorities are now working with consulates to screen arrivals more strictly, ensuring they have no warrants, blacklists, or insufficient funds. Foreigners are under increased scrutiny for unauthorized work, particularly as tour guides, with violators facing arrest, deportation, and possible lifetime bans. In January, Phuket saw 800,000 foreign tourists and detained four internationally wanted criminals.

Danish Tourist Declines Hospital Treatment After Stabbing in Pattaya A 22-year-old Danish tourist, Daniel, was stabbed in Pattaya on February 28 but declined hospital treatment and refused to cooperate with police. The attack occurred on Chalerm Phrakiet Road, with Daniel suffering stab wounds to his arm and head. Despite significant bleeding, he refused to disclose details or press charges. Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage, though the lack of cooperation may hinder the investigation.

The transcription below features news stories from across Thailand and Southeast Asia, as presented in the Good Morning Thailand program hosted by Alex and Jay. The coverage includes topics such as a Danish tourist refusing hospital treatment after a stabbing in Pattaya and Vietnam seeking Japan’s assistance in launching its first radar satellite. Danish Tourist Declines Hospital Treatment After Stabbing in Pattaya A 22-year-old Danish tourist was stabbed on February 28 in Pattaya but refused hospital treatment and police assistance. Despite heavy bleeding, he declined to press charges or share details. Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage, though his lack of cooperation hinders the investigation. Phuket Tightens Immigration Controls Amid Crime Wave Phuket is cracking down on illegal employment and drug-related crimes. In 2023, officials deported 998 foreigners and revoked 194 visas. Authorities now work with consulates to screen new arrivals for warrants, blacklists, or insufficient funds. The crackdown targets unauthorized foreign tour guides, with violators facing arrest, deportation, and lifetime bans. In January, Phuket saw 800,000 foreign tourists and detained four internationally wanted criminals. Japanese Man Arrested with Ecstasy in Bangkok Mall Thai police arrested a 31-year-old Japanese man in a Bangkok shopping centre on March 1 for possessing four ecstasy tablets. Acting on a tip-off, officers found him behaving suspiciously near a restroom. He admitted to buying the drugs to experiment but was detained before use. A urine test showed no other substances. He now faces drug possession charges. Thailand Cracks Down on Illegal Foreign Makeup Teachers Authorities are targeting foreign workers in restricted professions, specifically unlicensed makeup teachers. In Bangkok’s Phra Nakhon area, officials detained two Chinese nationals who were illegally working as makeup instructors. They face legal action, while their employer risks fines of up to 200,000 baht and potential hiring bans. The Department of Employment urges the public to report illegal foreign labour. Cambodia Deports 119 Thai Call Center Workers Cambodia deported 119 Thais involved in a Poipet-based scam call centre after raids on February 22-23. Thai police received them at the Aranyaprathet border. Authorities confirmed they entered Cambodia illegally for online fraud but were not tricked or held captive. The operation is part of a broader cybercrime crackdown involving Thailand, Myanmar, and Cambodia. Vietnam Seeks Japan’s Help in Launching First Radar Satellite Vietnam urges Japan to fast-track the launch of LOTUSat-1, its first home-built radar satellite, set for 2025. Developed with Japan’s Official Development Assistance, the satellite will enhance disaster prevention, climate monitoring, and resource management. Weighing 600kg, LOTUSat-1 uses advanced radar to capture images day and night, even in cloudy conditions.

Two Thai Wives Team Up to Catch Police Husband in Alleged Affair A Thai police officer was caught in an alleged affair after his two wives teamed up, tracked his car with GPS, and confronted him at a restaurant in Lop Buri. A viral video shows the officer with a younger woman when his first wife approaches and bluntly asks, “Are you very horny?” The confrontation escalates as the officer threatens to slap his wives, who challenge him back. The officer later claimed the woman was just a friend, but netizens were skeptical. While adultery

Thai Man Seeks Foreign Motorcyclist in Phuket Hit-and-Run A Thai man is seeking the identity of a foreign motorcyclist involved in a hit-and-run in Phuket on February 26. The accident occurred outside Phuket Palace Condominium in Patong as the victim made a U-turn. CCTV footage shows the foreigner, riding a grey Yamaha TMAX, hitting the victim’s motorcycle before fleeing. The man has asked the public for dashcam footage to help identify the rider. Thai netizens doubt justice will be served, citing past cases where foreign motorists escaped accountability, including a recent incident where a foreigner fled Thailand after a hit-and-run.

Foreign Tourists Criticized for Giving Monks a Ride in Pattaya A viral video showing two foreign tourists giving a motorcycle ride to Buddhist monks in Pattaya has led to some debate over its appropriateness. Originally posted on TikTok and later shared on Facebook, the footage shows the monks receiving a lift, tying sacred wristbands, and offering blessings. While some see it as a harmless cultural exchange, critics argue it could damage Buddhism’s image. The video’s caption joked about Pattaya’s anything-goes nature, but concerns remain over whether the act disrespects religious customs. The monks’ temple affiliation is still unknown.