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The transcription below covers news stories from across Thailand and Southeast Asia, ranging from the rejection of Thaksin's casino plan due to social concerns, to Shell's report of no operational impact following an oil leak in Singapore. Newin Rejects Thaksin’s Casino Plan Amid Social Concerns Newin Chidchob opposes Thaksin Shinawatra's casino proposal, citing concerns over debt and addiction, despite Thaksin's aim to boost tourism. Family Rejects Settlement in Drunk Porsche Driver Case A Chiang Mai family demands harsher charges against a drunk Porsche driver, rejecting a B200,000 settlement after a severe accident. Police Hunt Suspects in Assault and Robbery of Delivery Rider Police are searching for suspects who assaulted and robbed a 64-year-old delivery rider in Nonthaburi, leaving him with serious injuries. Three Suspects Sought for Dumping Woman’s Body Near Cassava Farm Police in Uthai Thani are searching for three suspects after a woman’s body was found strangled near a cassava farm. Grilled Chicken Vendor Arrested for Gold Shop Robbery A vendor was arrested for stealing two gold necklaces worth 87,000 baht in Nonthaburi. The suspect confessed to committing the crime to pay off debts. Bangkok Governor Supports Congestion Charge to Ease Traffic Bangkok’s governor backs a congestion charge to reduce traffic, with revenue funding public transport improvements and a flat electric train fare. Outrage in Malaysia After Beloved Stray Dog Shot Public outrage grows in Malaysia after a well-known stray dog named Kopi was shot in a culling operation, sparking calls for justice. Vietnam Appoints New President Amid Political Turmoil Vietnam’s new president, General Luong Cuong, takes office amid political instability, raising concerns over increased repression. Political Feud Between Marcos and Duterte Risks Philippines' Stability The feud between Philippine President Marcos Jr. and Vice President Duterte-Carpio threatens the country’s ability to tackle rising hunger and poverty. Shell Reports No Operational Impact After Oil Leak in Singapore An oil leak at Shell's Bukom Island facility in Singapore has been contained, with no operational or supply impact, as clean-up efforts continue.

Outrage over dancers at Nonthaburi police station sparks online debate A video showing dancers in revealing outfits at Plai Bang police station in Nonthaburi sparked outrage online. The footage, shared on social media, led netizens to question the appropriateness of such activities in a public space. The police station’s superintendent, Pol. Col. Piyawat Patcharanittham, clarified that the dancers had attended a nearby party and stopped by the station to use the restroom, filming the video without police awareness. Officers reprimanded the party organisers, emphasising the need for appropriate behaviour in the future to maintain the station's integrity.

British woman injured by boat propeller on Similan Islands A British tourist, Louise Imee Bacchetta, was injured by a boat propeller while diving near Island 7 on the Similan Islands. The accident, occurring during a tour organized by Siam Adventure World, resulted in Bacchetta sustaining a 5 cm long, 2 cm deep wound to her right heel. Royal Thai Navy officers provided first aid and transported her for further medical treatment. The Similan Islands had just reopened for visitors. Meanwhile, a separate incident involved the discovery of a body in diving gear near Samut Prakan, linked to a diver missing while cleaning a ship.

Two schoolgirls injured after truck tyre hits motorcycle in Samut Songkhram Two schoolgirls were injured when a tyre detached from a 10-wheel ice truck and struck their motorcycle on Ekachai Road, near Samut Songkhram Polytechnic College. The incident, captured on CCTV, resulted in the girls being thrown off the motorcycle, suffering abrasions and bruises. The truck driver, Mr. Channarong, explained that the tyre came loose while transporting ice. Police have charged him with reckless driving causing injury. The motorcycle driver, Mr. Saman, initially thought the noise was a transformer explosion before realizing the tyre had hit the motorcycle. Legal action is underway.

Pattaya police detain foreign beggars to restore public peace Pattaya police detained foreign beggars in a bid to restore public peace after reports of harassment. The operation, led by Police Colonel Nawin Thirawit and Police Lieutenant Colonel Piyapong Ensan, followed complaints from an Arab restaurant owner about tourists being harassed by beggars. Two foreign individuals, found without identification documents, were arrested after being caught on CCTV footage linked to incidents reported on October 18. Although their behaviour wasn't mafia-like, it caused discomfort among locals and tourists. The suspects face charges of illegal entry and public nuisance, with plans for deportation.

French man arrested for reckless motorcycle riding in Chiang Mai A 21-year-old French tourist, identified as Hugo, was arrested for reckless motorcycle riding on the road to Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai. The incident, recorded and shared on social media, prompted an investigation by local authorities. Hugo admitted to meeting a group of motorcyclists and intentionally performing dangerous stunts to entertain his friends. He has been charged with driving without a license and reckless driving, endangering others' safety. Police located him along with the motorcycle and clothing used during the incident.

Thailand braces for heavy rain and strong winds affecting 41 provinces Thailand is bracing for heavy rain and strong winds today, with the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) warning that 41 provinces will be affected, including Bangkok, which will see 80% of its area impacted. Thunderstorms are expected nationwide, particularly in the central, eastern, and southern regions. Flash floods are possible in low-lying and foothill areas. Residents are advised to avoid open spaces and unstable structures. The weather disturbance is caused by a monsoon trough and low-pressure area, with strong winds and high waves forecasted in the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand.

The transcription below features news stories from Thailand and Southeast Asia. Highlights include heavy rain and strong winds warning affecting 41 provinces and Cambodian Princess Jenna denying K-pop stardom rumours. Thailand Braces for Heavy Rain and Strong Winds The Thai Meteorological Department warns that 41 provinces, including Bangkok, will face heavy rain and strong winds. Flash floods are likely in low-lying areas, with strong winds and high waves forecasted in the Andaman Sea and Gulf of Thailand. French Tourist Arrested for Reckless Riding in Chiang Mai A 21-year-old French tourist was arrested for performing dangerous motorcycle stunts near Doi Suthep. He faces charges for reckless driving and riding without a license. Pattaya Police Detain Foreign Beggars to Restore Peace Police detained two foreign beggars following complaints from tourists. The individuals, lacking identification, now face deportation for illegal entry and public nuisance. Two Schoolgirls Injured by Loose Truck Tyre in Samut Songkhram A tyre from a 10-wheel truck struck a motorcycle, injuring two schoolgirls. The truck driver has been charged with reckless driving causing injury. British Tourist Injured by Boat Propeller in Similan Islands A British woman was injured by a boat propeller while diving. Authorities provided first aid and transported her for further medical treatment. Outrage Over Dancers at Nonthaburi Police Station A viral video of dancers in revealing outfits at a Nonthaburi police station sparked a public backlash, prompting officers to reprimand the party organizers. Prabowo Subianto Sworn in as Indonesia’s Eighth President Prabowo Subianto took office as Indonesia’s president, pledging to fight corruption and poverty while continuing key development projects. Malaysia Announces Record Budget with New Taxes and Wage Hikes Malaysia’s new budget introduces higher taxes, subsidy cuts, and a minimum wage increase, aiming to reduce the fiscal deficit and support low-income citizens. American Man Kidnapped in Southern Philippines An American man was abducted by armed men in the Philippines, raising fears of a kidnapping-for-ransom case linked to regional security issues. Cambodian Princess Jenna Denies K-Pop Career Rumors Princess Jenna Norodom, a popular online figure, denied reports of pursuing a K-pop career, focusing instead on her Mandarin album and studies.

BLACKPINK’s Lisa Shines at Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show BLACKPINK’s Lisa captivated audiences at the 2024 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show in New York with her electrifying performances. Opening the show with her hit single "Rockstar" while riding a suspended motorbike, she dazzled in a leather two-piece. Later, she returned in gold angel wings and a lacy catsuit to perform her new track "Moonlit Floor." Lisa expressed her excitement at being part of Victoria's Secret's grand comeback. The show featured five segments transitioning from light to dark, with additional performances by Cher and Tyla. Lisa's performance was a standout, blending music and fashion seamlessly.

Luxury Hotels in Thailand Plan Rate Hikes Amid Tourist Surge As Thailand's tourism sector anticipates a strong high season, luxury hotels plan modest rate hikes amid increased tourist demand, while budget hotels struggle. September's average occupancy dropped to 55%, lower than pre-pandemic levels. High-end accommodations saw a 58.7% occupancy rate, while budget hotels only reached 45%. Regional disparities were notable, with northern hotels suffering from flooding. Luxury hotels expect rate increases of less than 10%, while four-star hotels anticipate over 20% rises. October occupancy rates stand at 55.6%, with a 5-10% tourist increase predicted. Hoteliers also seek government relief for flood recovery.

Ratchaburi Police Raid Illegal Cockfighting Ring Ratchaburi police raided an illegal cockfighting ring hidden in a forest, arresting 25 gamblers after locals reported the activity. The raid, led by Mueang Ratchaburi's special operations team, uncovered a makeshift arena with ongoing cockfights. Authorities seized fighting roosters, cages, a cockfighting ring, and a digital timer, though some suspects managed to flee. The arrested individuals, mostly locals, were charged with organising illegal gambling and participating in illegal cockfighting. Police have issued summonses for those who escaped, and further legal proceedings are underway.

Cyanide Serial Killer Cases Near Conclusion in Thailand The Crime Suppression Division (CSD) will submit a summary of 14 cyanide poisoning cases tied to serial killer suspect Sararat "Am" Rangsiwuthaporn by the end of October, with sentencing expected for one major case in November. Sararat, accused of 14 murders and 1 attempted murder, remains imprisoned but legally innocent until the court rules. The case emerged after the death of Siriporn "Koy" Khanwong, with cyanide found in her system and Sararat suspected of involvement. More families then came forward, linking Sararat to financial dealings and the deaths of their loved ones.

Tourist Bus Fire in Pak Chong: No Injuries Reported A tourist bus carrying 50 Indonesian tourists caught fire in Pak Chong, Nakhon Ratchasima, on October 16. Fortunately, no one was injured, as the passengers had exited the bus moments earlier for dinner. The fire, which broke out along the old Mittraphap Road, was extinguished after 30 minutes. Local authorities, including fire crews, responded swiftly. While the bus was severely damaged, the cause of the fire remains unknown. Most of the tourists' belongings were unharmed. Alternative transport was arranged, and authorities are investigating the incident with the help of forensic experts.

Woman Seeks Justice After Man Defecates Outside Her Home A Thai woman named Mew, from Udon Thani, is seeking accountability after a man defecated outside her home. Mew shared CCTV footage of the incident on social media, which showed a man in black trousers defecating in front of her house before driving away. The incident occurred around 1 am on October 16, and Mew discovered the mess while cleaning the next morning. Despite her neighbours helping with the cleanup, the unpleasant smell persisted. Mew believes the man, who appears wealthy, is a partygoer and publicly calls on him to take responsibility for his actions.

The transcription below provides the news stories from across Thailand and Asia. The stories range from the tourist bus fire in Pak Chong to the Vietnamese Tycoon receiving a life sentence in a financial fraud case. Tourist Bus Fire in Pak Chong: No Injuries Reported A tourist bus carrying 50 Indonesian passengers caught fire on October 16 in Pak Chong, Nakhon Ratchasima. Thankfully, all tourists were safe, having left the bus moments before for dinner. The fire was extinguished in 30 minutes, and authorities are investigating the cause. Cyanide Serial Killer Cases Near Conclusion in Thailand The Crime Suppression Division is wrapping up investigations into 14 cyanide poisoning cases linked to suspect Sararat "Am" Rangsiwuthaporn, with sentencing for a key case expected in November. Woman Seeks Justice After Man Defecates Outside Her Home A woman in Udon Thani is demanding accountability after a man defecated outside her house. She shared CCTV footage of the incident online, urging the man to take responsibility. Ratchaburi Police Raid Illegal Cockfighting Ring Police in Ratchaburi arrested 25 gamblers during a raid on an illegal cockfighting ring. Several suspects escaped, and authorities have issued summonses to those still at large. Luxury Hotels in Thailand Plan Rate Hikes Amid Tourist Surge Luxury hotels in Thailand plan rate increases of up to 10% as tourist demand rises, though budget hotels continue to struggle with lower occupancy rates and flood impacts. BLACKPINK’s Lisa Shines at Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show BLACKPINK’s Lisa stole the show at the 2024 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show, performing her hit "Rockstar" and debuting her new track "Moonlit Floor" in dazzling outfits. Bahrain Refuses to Play in Indonesia Over Safety Concerns Bahrain’s football team will not play a World Cup qualifier in Indonesia due to safety concerns after receiving online death threats from Indonesian fans. Hong Kong Reclaims Top Spot as World’s Freest Economy Hong Kong regained the title of the world’s freest economy in the 2024 Economic Freedom of the World report, edging out Singapore and excelling in trade freedom. Vietnamese Tycoon Receives Life Sentence in Financial Fraud Case Vietnamese real estate tycoon Truong My Lan was sentenced to life in prison for financial fraud, following a prior death sentence for embezzlement and bribery. BTS's J-Hope Completes Military Service, Exciting Fans for Possible Reunion BTS’s J-Hope finished his military service on October 17, sparking excitement about a potential group reunion in 2025 as other members complete their duties.

Foreigner's Tattoo Mix-up Sparks Laughter Over 'Love, Peace, and Curry' A foreign man became the subject of a social media frenzy after showing off a Thai tattoo he believed said "love, peace, and harmony." However, the Thai text actually translated to "spicy green curry with chicken." The man, using the Reddit handle thirsty Fridays, proudly shared his tattoo, but Thai users quickly corrected him, pointing out the culinary mix-up. Despite the blunder, he embraced the humour, recalling a spicy green curry meal he had at a beachfront restaurant in Chon Buri. Thai commenters noted that while the spelling was correct, the phrasing was unusual for the dish.

Authorities Deny Claims of Korean Drug Suspect's Jail Livestream The Thai Department of Corrections has denied claims that a South Korean drug trafficking suspect live-streamed from inside Pattaya Remand Prison. The suspect, arrested on October 3 in Chonburi, allegedly claimed he broadcasted from the prison, but authorities confirmed he was never detained there, and the cell shown in the video didn't match any of their facilities. The suspect, wanted for drug-related charges in South Korea, was apprehended by Thai authorities as part of a joint effort with South Korean agencies. Thai officials have revoked his visa and are preparing to deport him.

Thailand Extends Suspension of TM6 Form to Boost Tourism Thailand has extended the suspension of the TM6 arrival form for travellers until April 30 next year to boost tourism and ease immigration bottlenecks. The suspension, which began in April 2023, applies to 16 key land and sea checkpoints and is part of the country's efforts to streamline entry processes. Authorities are also developing the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, which will allow online registration for tourists, enabling smoother immigration via QR code. While the move is expected to increase tourist flow, especially from Malaysia, experts say new attractions are needed in the Deep South to sustain long-term growth.

Phuket Taxi Driver Hits Tourist on Airport Zebra Crossing A Thai taxi driver struck a foreign man on a zebra crossing at Phuket International Airport on October 15, leaving the man unconscious with serious injuries, including a wound on his mouth. Witnesses, including an off-duty airport worker, provided assistance to the victim, though his condition has not been updated. The accident, involving an airport taxi with a green registration plate, sparked criticism online, with many questioning the driver's speed and lack of caution at the zebra crossing. Airport taxis have faced similar complaints before, with netizens expressing frustration over their driving behaviour.

Bank of Thailand Cuts Interest Rates for First Time in Four Years The Bank of Thailand (BoT) has cut its key interest rate for the first time in four years, reducing it by 25 basis points to 2.25%, following government pressure to stimulate the economy. The surprise move contrasts with economists' expectations, as inflation remains low and economic growth sluggish. The Thai Chamber of Commerce welcomed the decision, hoping it would ease business costs, especially with a strong baht affecting exports. However, BoT Governor Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput emphasized that rate cuts alone won't drive significant growth, citing the need for structural reforms and caution due to high household debt levels.

Vocational Student Brawl Disrupts Bangkok Commuters at Siam BTS A brawl between vocational students disrupted Bangkok commuters at Siam BTS station on the morning of October 16, causing panic as passengers scrambled for safety. The fight broke out around 8:30 a.m., involving over ten students before police intervened. Videos circulating online show the chaotic scene as an officer struggled to separate the students, while commuters sought refuge. Despite the fight, regular train services continued, adding to the danger. Additional officers eventually arrived and detained the students. The Pathumwan Police Station is investigating the incident further.

The transcription below features stories from across Thailand and Asia, as covered in Good Morning Thailand with Alex. Highlights include Thailand extending the suspension of the TM6 form to boost tourism and Malaysia's crackdown on child abuse and trafficking with hundreds of arrests. Thailand Extends Suspension of TM6 Form to Boost Tourism Thailand has extended the suspension of the TM6 arrival form until April 30, 2025, to ease immigration bottlenecks and boost tourism. The measure aims to streamline entry at key checkpoints, with further plans to introduce an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system. Bank of Thailand Cuts Interest Rates for First Time in Four Years The Bank of Thailand has lowered its key interest rate by 25 basis points to 2.25%, marking the first cut in four years. The move aims to stimulate the sluggish economy, but officials warn that structural reforms are still essential. Phuket Taxi Driver Hits Tourist on Airport Zebra Crossing A taxi driver at Phuket Airport hit a tourist on a zebra crossing, leaving him seriously injured. The incident has sparked online criticism of airport taxis, with concerns about reckless driving. Vocational Student Brawl Disrupts Bangkok Commuters at Siam BTS A brawl between students at Siam BTS station caused panic among commuters. Despite the chaos, train services continued as police intervened and detained those involved. Authorities Deny Claims of Korean Drug Suspect's Jail Livestream Thai officials denied reports that a South Korean drug suspect live-streamed from Pattaya Remand Prison, confirming the suspect had not been held at the facility. Foreigner's Tattoo Blunder Sparks Laughter Online A foreigner’s Thai tattoo, which he believed meant "love, peace, and harmony," actually translated to "spicy green curry with chicken," sparking social media amusement. Malaysia Arrests Hundreds Over Child Abuse and Trafficking Allegations Malaysian authorities have arrested more suspects connected to the GISB group, facing allegations of child abuse and trafficking, as part of an ongoing international investigation. Singapore Scrambles Jets After Bomb Threat on Air India Flight Singapore’s air force escorted an Air India flight following a bomb threat. The plane landed safely at Changi Airport, with no dangerous items found. Investigations are ongoing. Magnitude 5.2 Earthquake Hits Eastern Taiwan An earthquake measuring 5.2 struck near Hualien County, Taiwan, on October 16. No damage or injuries were reported. Mother Endangers Children During Domestic Dispute in China A mother placed her children on a 23rd-floor air conditioning unit during a domestic argument, sparking public outrage. Authorities are investigating the incident.

Pattaya Official Seeks Justice After Sea Urination Incident A Pattaya official, Sawate Permpoon, is seeking justice after two men attempted to assault him for warning them not to urinate in the sea on October 13. Tourists had reported the men’s behaviour, prompting Sawate to confront them, citing that it violated Pattaya’s Cleanliness and Orderliness Act. The men became angry and followed Sawate back to the office, where a heated argument occurred. Despite being urged to pay a fine, the men refused, claiming they had no cash and would wait for a court order. It remains unclear if police will take further action.

Pervert Caught on CCTV Stealing Flip-flops in Nonthaburi CCTV footage from an apartment in Nonthaburi caught a man, identified as Toon, masturbating with stolen flip-flops outside a victim's room on October 12. The victim, Chokchai Kadprasit, reported his missing flip-flops to the apartment owner, who reviewed the footage, revealing Toon as the culprit. Toon had a history of similar incidents, including a 2020 arrest and a 2022 raid where over 120 pairs of shoes were found. Toon, with a history of psychiatric treatment, is believed to be involved in additional flip-flop theft cases in Nonthaburi. Chokchai expressed concerns about his safety.

Thai Singer Tik Shiro Charged with Drunk Driving After Fatal Crash Thai singer Tik Shiro, also known as Sirisak Nantasane, was charged with drunk driving after a fatal crash on October 10 that killed 28-year-old Thianporn "Meji" Siwapornpithak and seriously injured her brother. The accident occurred on the Sukhapiban 5 Bridge when Tik’s van collided with the siblings' motorcycle. Despite public criticism for not conducting a breathalyser test on-site, a hospital test later confirmed Tik’s blood alcohol level exceeded the legal limit. Tik faces charges of reckless driving causing death and driving under the influence. A compensation agreement between both parties is expected.