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British Man Arrested for Drug Sales in Chiang Mai Chiang Mai Immigration arrested a British man, Daniel, for selling drugs to foreign tourists. A partner in a cannabis shop, Daniel allegedly promoted and sold various illegal drugs, including crystal meth, ecstasy, ketamine, and cocaine, over six months. Authorities are investigating suspicions he may have also smuggled cannabis overseas. The shop’s main owner, a Thai national, hasn’t been implicated in the criminal activity. Charged under the Narcotics Act, Daniel faces a possible prison sentence of five years to life, a significant fine, and will be deported and banned from Thailand for ten years post-sentence.

The transcription below provides news stories from across Thailand and Southeast Asia. The stories range from Thailand’s PM promoting investment to a US YouTuber facing prison for a deepfake in Korea. Thailand’s PM Promotes Investment Thai PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra leverages Trump’s win to attract foreign investment, advocating for Thailand’s growth in LA. Her initiatives include funds for Thai businesses, scholarships, and talent repatriation, with a continued push at the APEC summit. British Man Arrested in Chiang Mai for Drug Sales Chiang Mai Immigration arrests British national Daniel for allegedly selling illegal drugs to tourists. Authorities continue investigations, with possible sentences of up to life and a 10-year deportation ban. Child Abuse Allegations in Chiang Mai Orphanage The Ministry of Social Development moves to revoke a Chiang Mai orphanage’s license following serious abuse allegations, rescuing 17 children. Legal actions are being pursued against implicated staff. Children Used for Street Sales in Pattaya Foreign vendors in Pattaya are using children to sell goods, raising ethical concerns. Locals call for authorities to address the issue, fearing negative impacts on the city’s image and local vendors. Thai Airways Joins Rolls-Royce Backlash Thai Airways criticizes Rolls-Royce for engine maintenance delays impacting Boeing 787s. In response, Rolls-Royce formed a task force, while Thai Airways plans to order new planes with GE engines. Malaysia Denies Sultan’s Heirs Land Claims Malaysia’s law minister dismisses a $14.9 billion land claim by the former Sultan of Sulu’s heirs, asserting sovereignty. The heirs threaten to lease the land to other nations. Cambodian Man Jailed for Social Media Criticism A Cambodian court sentences disabled man Phon Yuth to 18 months for social media “incitement” against the government. Rights groups express concern over free expression. US YouTuber Faces Prison for Deepfake in Korea American YouTuber Johnny Somali may face prison in South Korea over a deepfake video with a local influencer, violating laws against explicit deepfakes. Japanese PM’s Nap Goes Viral, Promises Defense Boost Japanese PM Shigeru Ishiba’s brief nap in parliament went viral. Despite recent losses, he vows to increase defence and economic growth, solidifying his leadership.

Missing 16-Year-Old Found Working at Bar in Pattaya A mother found her missing 16-year-old daughter allegedly working at a bar in Pattaya. Two months after her disappearance, the mother spotted her on social media and confronted the bar’s management with police. The bar caretaker claimed the girl used a fake ID to apply for work but later insisted she was only “hanging out” there. However, an employee time card was found for her. Police took the manager in for further questioning while the mother voiced concerns about her daughter being deceived.

Thailand Adds Holidays in 2025 to Boost Tourism To stimulate tourism and economic growth, Thailand will add two new public holidays in 2025 and extend the New Year's break, creating more travel opportunities for locals. Special holidays on June 2 and August 11 will encourage longer weekend trips, with the New Year break stretching to five days. The government also approved 75 billion baht ($2.2 billion) in cheap loans to support the property sector, with further economic stimulus measures to be announced. Thailand aims to surpass pre-pandemic tourist numbers in 2025.

Two Mongolians Arrested for Pickpocketing Tourists in Bangkok Two Mongolian nationals were arrested in Bangkok for a pickpocketing spree targeting tourists. The suspects, Mr. Sodbayar and Mr. Uyangabaatar, were apprehended by Thong Lor Police on November 11 after a female tourist reported her purse stolen on Sukhumvit Soi 33/1. The men, staying in rented rooms and changing accommodations weekly, admitted to the theft and faced nighttime theft charges, with potential jail time and fines. Police are still searching for a third suspect and urge vigilance in tourist areas.

Drunk Foreigner Shocks Phuket Woman by Entering Her Car A Phuket local warned others after a drunk foreign man unexpectedly entered his girlfriend’s unlocked car near Patong Beach. The Phuket local, known as “Bank,” shared the incident on social media, explaining that his girlfriend had left her car unlocked while shopping. When she returned, the foreigner entered the passenger side, startling her. Nearby taxi riders tried to help, but he refused to leave until police intervened. Bank urged drivers to prioritise safety and lock their doors.

Thai Government Warns Israelis of Potential Attack at Koh Phangan’s Full Moon Party The Thai government has issued a red alert for Israelis in Koh Phangan, warning of potential attacks at the popular "Full Moon" parties, which attract large crowds. This follows rising global antisemitic incidents. Israeli officials advised citizens to avoid southern Thailand due to a "high-level threat" and to take specific precautions: avoid large gatherings, hide Jewish or Israel-related symbols, report antisemitic incidents, and avoid sharing travel plans on social media.

Bangkok Plans Congestion Charge to Ease Traffic and Pollution Bangkok’s Transport Ministry is considering a congestion charge to reduce traffic and pollution, inspired by models from cities like London. Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit announced a six-month study by the Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning (OTP) to determine the best approach. Funds from the charge could enhance transit infrastructure and allow for a 20-baht flat fare for electric trains. With 60% of residents supporting the idea, the OTP is consulting with the British government to improve Bangkok’s traffic and transit systems.

The transcription below presents news stories from Thailand and across Southeast Asia. These stories range from a drunk foreigner startling a Phuket woman by entering her unlocked car to a tragic hit-and-run in China, where 35 people were killed as a car plowed into crowds at a sports center. Thai Government Warns Israelis of Potential Attack at Koh Phangan’s Full Moon Party The Thai government has issued a red alert for Israelis attending Koh Phangan’s Full Moon parties, urging caution amid a high-level threat of potential attacks. Israeli officials advise travelers to avoid large gatherings and conceal any Jewish or Israeli symbols. Bangkok Plans Congestion Charge to Ease Traffic and Pollution Bangkok’s Transport Ministry is considering a congestion charge, inspired by London, to reduce traffic and pollution. Revenue could improve transit infrastructure, with a potential 20-baht flat fare for electric trains. Drunk Foreigner Shocks Phuket Woman by Entering Her Car A Phuket woman was startled when a drunk foreign man entered her unlocked car. Police were called to remove the man, and the incident has prompted warnings to lock vehicles for safety. Two Mongolians Arrested for Pickpocketing Tourists in Bangkok Thong Lor Police have arrested two Mongolian men in Bangkok suspected of pickpocketing tourists. Police urge vigilance in crowded areas. Missing 16-Year-Old Found Working at Bar in Pattaya A missing 16-year-old girl was located in Pattaya, allegedly working at a bar. Police are investigating the bar’s hiring practices after her mother raised concerns. Thailand Adds Holidays in 2025 to Boost Tourism Thailand will add two new holidays in 2025 to boost tourism, encouraging longer trips and aiming to surpass pre-pandemic tourist numbers. Tragic Hit-and-Run in China Kills 35 in Zhuhai Sports Centre A hit-and-run in Zhuhai, China, left 35 dead and over 40 injured. The incident, allegedly motivated by a divorce dispute, has been condemned by Chinese President Xi Jinping. Malaysia’s Sabah Chief Minister Denies Bribery Involvement Amid Scandal Sabah’s Chief Minister Hajiji Noor denies bribery allegations and calls for an investigation after claims surfaced linking him to a corruption scandal. Five Vietnamese Nationals Indicted for Drug Smuggling in Taiwan Five Vietnamese nationals in Taiwan face drug smuggling charges. Authorities allege they targeted foreign workers, smuggling drugs from Thailand. Indonesia’s New President Praises Trump in Congratulatory Call Indonesia's President Prabowo Subianto praised US President-elect Donald Trump in a call, highlighting Indonesia’s importance amid US-China tensions.

Thailand is set to enter negotiations to bring Formula 1 to the land of smiles Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra announced plans to bring a Formula 1 race to Thailand as part of a strategy to boost tourism and solidify Thailand’s global reputation. This initiative, along with tourism campaigns like the “72 Styles of Happiness to Experience,” aims to drive significant visitor growth. Influencers will promote curated travel routes, enhancing Thailand’s appeal with unique cultural, culinary, and adventure experiences. The government expects a 7.5% rise in tourism revenue by year’s end, underscoring Thailand’s commitment to sustainable tourism and global events.

A new pilotless autonomous flying vehicle took to the skies of Bangkok over the weekend EHang Holdings recently conducted its first passenger flights in Thailand with the pilotless EH216-S electric flying vehicle at Bangkok’s Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, aiming for commercial operations in Phuket and Koh Samui by 2025. Approved by Thailand’s Civil Aviation Authority, these flights are part of EHang’s global expansion in urban air mobility. EHang plans to use its autonomous vehicles for island-hopping and has tested its eVTOL in 17 countries. The company has partnerships worldwide, including for tourism in China, logistics in Abu Dhabi, and passenger flights in Brazil, emphasising its commitment to advancing aerial urban mobility.

Re-used animal feed bags to store ice causes mass diarrhoea outbreak in Rayong Over 1,400 students and teachers in Rayong were hit by a diarrhoea outbreak linked to ice packed in re-used animal feed bags. The contamination, attributed to norovirus and traces of harmful E.coli strains, affected schools in Klaeng district, with poor water quality and low chlorine levels compounding the issue. Officials found that the implicated ice factory used unsafe packaging practices, despite holding a valid license. Emergency measures include chlorinating school water supplies, halting ice sales from the factory, and improving hygiene protocols. Local authorities aim to restore safety and prevent future incidents.

Wee problem! Pun intended as a motorcycle passenger pulls a pee and runs on her driver A Bangkok motorcycle rider shared a video of a passenger who urinated during a ride and refused to pay the 87 baht fare. Korn, the 32-year-old rider, warned fellow drivers, describing how the passenger ignored his payment demands and dared him to file a complaint. During the ride, Korn noticed unusual behaviour from the passenger, who had powder on her nose and frequently leaned on him before urinating on his motorcycle seat. Though angry, Korn stayed calm and opted not to take legal action but urged passengers to communicate their needs to avoid such incidents.

Thailand's Prime Minister Drives Airport Upgrades to Boost Tourism Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra visited Suvarnabhumi Airport to push for service upgrades ahead of the tourist season, aiming to boost Thailand's tourism and economy. Joined by high-ranking officials, she called for improved visitor experiences, emphasising Thailand’s “Soft Power” approach, efficient check-ins, and advanced technology. Key upgrades include a Biometric Identification System and automated kiosks, which have already reduced wait times. Additionally, the new Midfield Satellite Concourse expands the airport’s capacity and strengthens its role as a travel hub.

Foreign Gang Steals Millions from Tourist in Phuket A Ukrainian tourist in Phuket was robbed of 250,000 USD in cryptocurrency by a foreign gang. The victim, Mr. Viacheslav Liubov, was lured to a room by a friend, where he was attacked, bound, and threatened by masked assailants. Led by Arman Grigoryan from Armenia, the gang forced Mr. Liubov to transfer the funds, initially demanding 500,000 USD. After the gang left, Mr. Liubov gathered evidence and reported the crime to Kamala Police. Authorities are now investigating and raising concerns over tourist safety in Phuket.

The transcription below presents news stories from across Thailand and Southeast Asia. Topics range from Thailand's Prime Minister driving airport upgrades to boost tourism, to Vietnam's demands for Shein and Temu to register to avoid being blocked. Thailand's Prime Minister Drives Airport Upgrades to Boost Tourism Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has initiated upgrades at Suvarnabhumi Airport, including biometric systems and expanded facilities, to enhance visitor experiences and promote Thailand’s tourism growth. Foreign Gang Steals Millions from Tourist in Phuket A Ukrainian tourist in Phuket fell victim to a cryptocurrency theft, losing $250,000 to a foreign gang. The incident has raised safety concerns for tourists in the area. Motorcycle Passenger’s “Pee and Run” Incident Goes Viral A Bangkok motorcycle rider shared a viral video after a passenger urinated on his bike and refused to pay the fare. The driver urges passengers to communicate better to prevent such incidents. Ice Packed in Animal Feed Bags Sparks Diarrhoea Outbreak in Rayong Contaminated ice stored in re-used animal feed bags led to a mass diarrhoea outbreak affecting over 1,400 people in Rayong schools. Authorities have halted ice sales and are improving hygiene measures. Thailand Hosts First Autonomous Flying Vehicle Tests EHang Holdings tested its autonomous EH216-S vehicle in Bangkok, with plans for commercial flights in Phuket by 2025. Thailand aims to advance in urban air mobility through these trials. Thailand Pursues Formula 1 Race to Boost Tourism Thailand’s Prime Minister has announced plans to bring Formula 1 to the country, aiming to enhance tourism and solidify its international reputation. This aligns with campaigns to attract diverse visitor experiences. Passenger’s Disturbance on Korean Air Flight Ends in Arrest A passenger caused panic on a Bangkok-Seoul Korean Air flight by attempting to open an emergency exit mid-flight. The crew subdued the man, and he was arrested upon landing in Seoul. Philippines Evacuates Thousands as Typhoon Toraji Hits Typhoon Toraji forced thousands to evacuate in the Philippines as it struck Aurora province, with winds up to 130 kph. Schools and transportation services were suspended, and aid was being mobilised. Singaporean Man Charged for Stabbing Priest During Mass A Singaporean man was charged after stabbing a Catholic priest during Mass. Authorities are investigating, and police have increased security at worship sites. Vietnam Demands Shein and Temu Register to Avoid Blocking Vietnam has ordered Shein and Temu to register or face domain blocking, citing their impact on local markets and counterfeit concerns. This move reflects the country's growing regulatory stance on e-commerce.

Suvarnabhumi Airport Issues Safety Warning for Loy Krathong Festival Suvarnabhumi Airport has issued a public safety warning for November 15 during the Loy Krathong festival, urging people to refrain from flying lanterns, balloons, using lasers, or setting off fireworks near the airport due to the risks posed to aviation safety. Communities planning such activities must seek approval from their district offices at least a week in advance to allow the airport to be notified. Outreach teams have been sent to educate nearby residents about the potential dangers these activities pose to aircraft, especially during takeoff and landing. The airport will also enhance security patrols to ensure compliance and protect flight operations.

Overnight Phone Charging Sparks Fire in Samut Prakan Building A fire in Samut Prakan, sparked by an overnight phone charging, injured a father and his two sons due to smoke inhalation. The blaze broke out in a three-storey commercial building on Soi Dan Samrong 28, prompting a swift response from local fire services with four fire engines and rescue teams. The fire, which started in a second-floor bedroom, took over an hour to control. The homeowner, Nueng, recounted that the fire began from a power socket while charging his phone. Despite efforts to extinguish the flames, he evacuated with his sons as the fire grew. All three were treated and released from the hospital.

Tak Bai Massacre's Political Impact on Pheu Thai Ahead of Elections A recent NIDA poll shows that the unresolved 2004 Tak Bai massacre could harm the Pheu Thai Party’s support ahead of Thailand’s general election. Locals in Yala, Pattani, and Narathiwat revealed that 55.20% think Pheu Thai will face negative consequences if justice remains unserved. While 39.55% said it wouldn't impact their vote, 25.21% felt it would, and 23.62% noted moderate influence. The People’s Party emerged as a top choice, securing 18.85% support, with many still undecided. The Tak Bai tragedy, which occurred under former PM Thaksin Shinawatra, involved 85 deaths during a protest dispersal.

British Tourists Fined for Reckless Motorbike Riding in Phuket Nine British tourists have been fined for reckless motorbike riding after residents in Chalong, Thailand, reported their disruptive behaviour. The Chalong Police received a complaint on November 7 about foreigners riding dangerously on Khok San Road, disturbing locals with loud engine revving. The next day, police located the group in Patong, where they had rented the motorbikes. The tourists were charged with causing a public disturbance and dangerous driving. Following inspections and verification of their identification and motorbike documents, the tourists were fined, and their details were recorded for future reference.

Thailand and China to Strengthen Tourism Ties Across ASEAN Region Thailand and China are collaborating to enhance tourism across the ASEAN region, with Thailand positioned as a key hub. The initiative, driven by the China Tourism Academy, involves a proposed team of 100 experts studying strategies for tourism development. The plan supports Chinese President Xi Jinping’s policy of making China a global tourism leader, benefiting economic and environmental aspects. This effort aims to impact over 2 billion people and includes a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Thailand, which is expected to be signed next year and commemorate 50 years of diplomatic ties.

British Man Injured in Pattaya Road Rage Incident A road rage incident in Pattaya's Nong Prue district left a British man, Mr. Edwards, with head and arm injuries after a confrontation with a Thai driver, Mr. Arthit, following a minor traffic collision. The altercation occurred near the LK Metro Hotel after both parties pulled over to resolve the issue. Witnesses reported that tensions flared as the drivers argued, leading Mr. Arthit to strike Mr. Edwards with a metal rod, claiming self-defence. Both men received on-site first aid, and Mr. Edwards was hospitalised. Pattaya Police are investigating, reviewing CCTV footage and witness statements to decide on potential charges. Authorities remind the public to resolve disputes calmly.

The transcription below features news stories from Thailand and across Southeast Asia, covering topics from Thailand and China’s collaboration to boost ASEAN tourism, to a Vietnamese man discovering his daughter was switched at birth. Thailand and China to Boost ASEAN Tourism Thailand and China will collaborate on an ASEAN-wide tourism initiative, with Thailand as a key hub, benefiting over 2 billion people. Tak Bai Massacre's Election Impact on Pheu Thai An unresolved massacre from 2004 may hurt Pheu Thai's support in southern Thailand, a recent NIDA poll shows, with locals seeking justice. British Tourists Fined in Phuket for Reckless Riding Nine British tourists were fined for disruptive motorbike riding in Phuket, causing public disturbance and driving dangerously. British Man Injured in Pattaya Road Rage A British man was hospitalized after a road rage clash in Pattaya, sparking a police investigation into the violent encounter. Samut Prakan Fire Caused by Phone Charging A fire in Samut Prakan started from overnight phone charging, injuring a father and his sons and causing significant damage. Loy Krathong Safety Warning at Suvarnabhumi Airport Suvarnabhumi Airport warns against flying lanterns and fireworks during Loy Krathong, citing safety concerns for aviation. Malaysia's Ex-PM Muhyiddin Ordered to Pay in Defamation Case Malaysia’s former PM Muhyiddin Yassin must pay damages in a defamation case with former finance minister Lim Guan Eng. Japan Plans Autonomous Cargo Highways by 2030 Japan is developing highways for self-sorting autonomous cargo pods to address a transport shortage, with tests set for 2027. North Korean GPS Jamming Disrupts South Korea North Korea's GPS jamming near the border affected flights and vessels, drawing condemnation from South Korean officials. Vietnamese Man Learns Daughter Was Switched at Birth A DNA test reveals a Vietnamese girl was switched at birth, sparking family challenges and intense online debate.

Thailand Police Chief Launches 15-Point Crackdown on Foreign Crime Thailand’s National Police Chief, Pol Gen Kittirat Panpet, announced a 15-point plan on November 4 to combat foreign crime and enhance public safety. The plan emphasises strict immigration control, targeting foreign criminals and tightening border security to prevent illegal entries. This initiative also involves heightened monitoring of criminal networks, especially those involving foreigners, and closer collaboration with neighbouring countries to curb cross-border crime. A new “Cyber Check” app, set for release in 2025, aims to protect citizens from online fraud. Gen Kittirat stresses police integrity, transparency, and fair treatment of law-abiding foreigners while ensuring strict penalties for law violators.

Bangkok Car Plunge Shocks Residents; Driver Escapes with Minor Injuries A car plunged from a 3rd-floor parking lot in a Bangkok condominium, leaving the 69-year-old driver with only minor injuries. The accident occurred around 11:15 a.m. in the Pinklao area when the car unexpectedly accelerated, breaking through the parking wall and landing on its roof below. Photos shared online show significant damage to the wall, raising concerns about high-rise parking safety. Authorities are investigating potential causes, including driver error or mechanical failure. In response, the condominium management has pledged to enhance safety measures and repair the damaged structure, prioritising resident safety.