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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.

Danish Tourist Arrested for Weapons Cache Rampage in Koh Samui A Danish tourist, Asger Ploug Emborg, terrorised Koh Samui with a shocking display of weaponry and threats, causing widespread alarm among locals and tourists. On November 2, Bophut Police responded to reports of Emborg wielding an air gun and machete, allegedly threatening a Myanmar worker and attacking vehicles. Witnesses reported him pointing the gun at people from his car, while hotel staff described chaotic behaviour, with Emborg throwing objects and brandishing weapons. Police arrested him, finding an alarming cache of weapons in his room, including air guns, knives, and a samurai sword. Currently, Emborg is undergoing a psychiatric evaluation and drug tests to assess his behaviour.

Delayed Emergency Response in Thailand Leads to Patient’s Death A private car obstructed an emergency vehicle in Samut Prakan, causing a crucial delay that led to a patient’s death. Despite the rescue vehicle’s flashing lights and sirens, the Honda car in front refused to yield for over a minute, occasionally braking and further slowing down the emergency team. This delay prevented the team from reaching the unconscious patient in time. A video of the incident went viral, sparking public outrage over drivers' lack of cooperation in emergencies. Rescue team members highlighted the critical need for road users to promptly give way, as every second counts in life-or-death situations. The patient’s family chose not to pursue legal action.

Foreigners’ Brawl on Patong Beach Sparks Thai Law Criticism A viral video of two foreigners fighting on Patong Beach, Phuket, has stirred online criticism regarding the enforcement of Thai laws. The video shared on TikTok and later deleted, shows two men brawling, with one still seated on a motorcycle. It was reposted by Phuket Times, sparking comments from Thai netizens who argue that lenient laws and bribery enable such behaviour, claiming this leniency wouldn’t be tolerated abroad. Many criticised the apparent lack of police intervention, with comments suggesting that foreign behaviour in Thailand often goes unchecked. No official response has been provided by authorities yet.

Thailand Offers Indians Indefinite Visa-Free Entry with 60-Day Stays Thailand has indefinitely extended its visa-free entry for Indian nationals, allowing them to stay up to 60 days without a visa, with an option to extend for 30 additional days. Originally introduced for one year in 2023, this policy has now been made permanent due to a surge in Indian tourists, who contributed significantly to Thailand’s tourism revenue. The ease of visa-free travel has driven spontaneous trips and boosted visitor numbers. Additionally, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is exploring a "Schengen-type" visa for six Southeast Asian countries to simplify regional travel and enhance tourism across Thailand, Malaysia, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam.

The following transcription provides news highlights from the Good Morning Thailand show, hosted by Alex and Jay. Covering top stories from Thailand and Southeast Asia, topics range from Thailand’s indefinite visa-free entry for Indian visitors with 60-day stays to Apple’s $10 million proposal aimed at reversing Indonesia’s iPhone ban. 1. Thailand Offers Visa-Free Entry for Indians Thailand now grants Indian tourists indefinite visa-free stays of up to 60 days, aiming to boost tourism. 2. Patong Beach Brawl Sparks Criticism A viral video of a brawl between foreigners in Patong has drawn public criticism over Thai law enforcement practices. 3. Patient Dies Due to Delayed Emergency Response A vehicle blocking an ambulance in Samut Prakan delayed a rescue, resulting in a patient’s tragic death. 4. Danish Tourist Arrested for Rampage in Koh Samui A Danish tourist wielding weapons in Koh Samui was arrested and faces a psychiatric assessment. 5. Bangkok Car Plunge Raises Safety Concerns A car plunged from a third-floor Bangkok condo, raising concerns over high-rise parking safety. 6. Thailand’s 15-Point Plan on Foreign Crime The National Police Chief has announced a plan to crack down on foreign crime and strengthen border controls. 7. Malaysian Pop Star Arrested for Meth Trafficking Eda Ezrin and five others were arrested in Thailand with thousands of meth tablets, facing trafficking charges. 8. Malaysia Proposes UN Expulsion of Israel Malaysia seeks Arab support to propose Israel’s UN expulsion over alleged Gaza violations. 9. Philippines Prepares for Typhoon Yinxing Ahead of Typhoon Yinxing, the Philippines readies evacuations and preps rescue operations for potential impacts. 10. Apple’s $10 Million Proposal to End Indonesia’s iPhone Ban Apple proposes a factory investment to reverse Indonesia’s ban on iPhone 16, targeting local production quotas.

Tourists and officials save injured turtle Kamkaew Tourists at Mae Khaeng Luang Waterfall helped save an injured turtle, Kamkaew, after discovering it with a cracked shell and tail wounds. They quickly alerted park officials, who transported Kamkaew to a veterinary clinic over 80 kilometers away in Phrae City. After visiting multiple clinics, they found a specialist who treated Kamkaew’s injuries with antibiotics, pain relief, and a temporary shell repair. The turtle’s condition was not life-threatening but required care. The park and veterinary team’s efforts were praised on social media, with plans to monitor Kamkaew’s recovery until it can return to the wild.

Heroic driver stops gunman in Phatthalung In Phatthalung, a heroic driver named Phrom intervened when a motorcycle rider began shooting at passing vehicles. The incident occurred on October 27 on Aphai Borirak Road. After witnessing the gunman targeting another vehicle, Phrom reversed his pickup truck to ram the motorcycle, forcing the shooter to flee into a nearby forest. The damaged motorcycle was later found in a ditch, along with bullet casings as evidence. Police have identified the suspect through the motorcycle’s registration and are preparing to issue an arrest warrant for attempted murder. Phrom and his friends were unharmed, and police continue their investigation.