Video News

Thailand plans to regulate sex work, igniting public debate Thailand's government, led by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, has proposed a plan to regulate sex work and bring underground industries into the formal economy, sparking public debate. Advocates like Surang Janyam from SWING argue for decriminalizing sex work to provide legal protections and allow workers to pay taxes. Supporters, including brothel owners and businesses in Pattaya, back the idea, while critics worry about child exploitation. Meanwhile, sex workers protested outside Parliament, demanding equal rights and faster progress on protective legislation for their industry.

Four charges filed against driver in deadly bus fire on Vibhavadi Rangsit Road The driver of a bus that caught fire on Vibhavadi Rangsit Road, killing 23 people, faces four charges, including reckless driving and failure to assist. After the crash, the driver fled in panic but later surrendered to police. The accident involved a collision after a suspected tyre or suspension failure. Investigations are ongoing, including an inspection of the bus. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra criticised suspending school field trips, instead calling for better maintenance of public transport. Transport authorities have ordered checks on over 13,000 CNG buses.

The transcription below features stories from Thailand and Southeast Asia covered in the Good Morning Thailand program, hosted by Alex. The topics range from a tragic school bus fire to a Cambodian journalist facing incitement charges. Thailand mourns tragic school bus fire claiming multiple young lives A school bus fire in Pathum Thani tragically claimed over 20 lives, with the government providing aid to victims' families. British tourist charged after fatal punch kills friend in Pattaya A 58-year-old Australian man died after a British friend punched him during an argument outside a Pattaya hotel. Bad weather impacts expected influx of Chinese tourists to Thailand Bad weather and flight costs may reduce the expected surge in Chinese tourists during the National Day holiday. Drunk Australian tourist subdued by Phuket police at airport A rowdy Australian tourist was detained at Phuket Airport after causing a scene when denied more alcohol at a bar. A bill liberalizing alcohol rules in Thailand is set to be voted on Thailand's Parliament will vote on the "progressive liquor bill," potentially reshaping the alcohol industry. TSPCA clashes with PETA over treatment of beloved pygmy hippo TSPCA defends Khao Kheow Zoo against PETA's abuse claims, ensuring that care for the pygmy hippo meets global standards. Malaysia plans cloud policy and AI regulations amid tech boom Malaysia announced a national cloud policy and AI regulations to promote innovation and enhance data security. Malaysian couple mysteriously vanishes after Bangkok layover A young Malaysian couple disappeared after a layover in Bangkok, with their families appealing for help. Singapore tightens scrutiny as Chinese wealth pours in via family offices Singapore is increasing regulations on family offices to ensure wealth, especially from China, is free from financial crimes. Cambodian journalist charged with incitement after exposing trafficking Investigative journalist Mech Dara faces charges after exposing human trafficking, sparking concerns over press freedom.

Thailand mourns tragic school bus fire claiming multiple young lives A tragic school bus fire in Pathum Thani claimed the lives of over 20 students and teachers, with bodies found near the back of the bus. The incident occurred while 38 students and 6 teachers were en route to a learning centre. The fire was likely caused by a tyre explosion and contact with a barrier, causing panic as the bus filled with smoke. While some escaped, others were trapped. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra expressed deep sorrow and visited the victims. The government covers medical expenses and compensates families.

British tourist charged after fatal punch kills friend in Pattaya A 58-year-old Australian man tragically died after a British friend, 29, delivered a fatal punch during a drunken argument outside a Pattaya hotel on September 27. The punch caused the Australian to hit his head on the pavement. Despite efforts from medics, he was pronounced dead at the hospital. Pattaya police have video footage and witness testimony confirming the incident. The British suspect denies the charges and awaits legal proceedings, while authorities are awaiting autopsy results to determine if the victim was also intoxicated. The motive for the altercation remains unclear.

Bad weather impacts expected influx of Chinese tourists to Thailand Thailand’s expected influx of Chinese tourists during the Chinese National Day holiday is likely to fall short due to bad weather, fluctuating flight prices, and changing travel behaviours. Thai hotel operators had hoped for a surge in visitors from October 1-7, but adjustments and delays by Chinese tour companies have affected travel plans. While the number of Free Individual Travellers (FIT) is increasing, natural disasters remain a key concern. Despite no cancellations, postponed or adjusted plans are impacting the expected tourist arrivals. Hotel operators are adapting to accommodate these changes.

TSPCA clashes with PETA over treatment of beloved pygmy hippo The Thai Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (TSPCA) has defended Khao Kheow Open Zoo against PETA’s claims of animal abuse regarding the zoo’s popular pygmy hippo, Moo Deng. PETA criticized the zoo for keeping Moo Deng in captivity, advocating for her relocation to a wildlife sanctuary. However, TSPCA countered that PETA's information was outdated and incomplete, emphasising that the zoo adheres to international care standards. While some Thais expressed support for the zoo, TSPCA called for respectful dialogue and reassured that Moo Deng's care meets global standards.

Drunk Australian tourist subdued by Phuket police at airport An intoxicated Australian tourist caused a commotion at Phuket International Airport on September 22 after being refused more alcohol at a bar. The situation escalated as he harassed other passengers, prompting armed police to intervene. Dramatic footage shows officers tackling and subduing the rowdy tourist, who was eventually handcuffed and detained in an airport cell to sober up. The incident caused the man to miss his flight and rebook another. Phuket Airport officials confirmed the tourist was detained until he regained composure, bringing an embarrassing end to his trip.

A bill liberalising alcohol rules in Thailand is set to be voted on Thailand's Parliament is set to vote today on the controversial "progressive liquor bill," proposed by the opposition People's Party. The bill, a key election promise from the former Future Forward Party, seeks to liberalise Thailand's alcohol market, allowing individuals to brew liquor or beer for personal use. The bill faces opposition from the ruling Pheu Thai Party and coalition partners, citing public health concerns. Supporters argue it would break the oligopoly controlling the market and benefit grassroots producers. Today's vote will decide if the bill advances, potentially reshaping Thailand's alcohol industry.

Thai Airways Expands Partnership with Gulf Air, Adds Six Destinations Thai Airways (THAI) has expanded its code-sharing agreement with Gulf Air, adding six new destinations: Cairo, Kuwait City, Amman, Casablanca, Athens, and Manchester. The partnership, which previously focused on routes between Bangkok and Manama or Abu Dhabi, aims to boost THAI's revenue by connecting passengers through Bahrain. Gulf Air will also bring passengers to Bangkok for further travel within Thailand and to Hong Kong, Singapore, and Melbourne. THAI is submitting its restructuring plan to resume trading on the Thai stock market as it exits business rehabilitation.

Thailand’s Sago Beetles Are Set for Global Export Thailand's sago beetles, or lan beetles, are set to go global as edible insect trends gain traction. Farmed in southern Thailand, these beetles are rich in healthy fats and provide a sustainable alternative to traditional snacks. Sago beetle larvae are easy to farm, making them a profitable export, with adult beetles selling for 200-250 baht per kilogram. With approval from the Thai FDA, countries like Italy, the UK, Germany, and Australia are welcoming them. The beetles can even be canned for export, promising a nutritious and eco-friendly food option worldwide.

Chon Buri Cemetery Transformed Into a Unique Cafe Experience Wat Nong Khayad's cemetery in Chon Buri has been transformed into a bustling cafe and community space, attracting tourists from all over. Visitors can enjoy free coffee, ice cream, and noodles, with a donation box available to support the temple's supplies. Local benefactors, like renowned noodle seller Jae Jim and bakery owners, contribute to this initiative, offering food to visitors. The cemetery, once considered eerie, now boasts a welcoming atmosphere with picturesque spots and rest areas. The unique project has garnered praise for promoting community spirit and offering a relaxing, one-of-a-kind tourist experience.

Thai Actress Criticizes Police for Inaction After Brother's Assault Thai actress Chalida “Mint” Wijitvongthong criticized police for their inaction after a Russian man assaulted her brother, Rachan “Moss” Wijitvongthong, outside a Bangkok hotel on September 25. The altercation stemmed from a misunderstanding involving a foreigner with hearing loss at her brother’s restaurant. CCTV footage shows Moss being brutally attacked despite his pleas for the Russian to stop. Police took 40 minutes to arrive, and arrested the attacker but released him without testing for alcohol or drugs. They later urged the family to drop the case, sparking outrage on social media.

Foreign Men Vandalize Phuket Restaurant, Shattering Windows Two foreign men vandalized Birds Cafe Restaurant in Phuket early on September 30, shattering windows in two separate incidents within an hour. The first occurred around 2:18 am, with a man breaking the glass and fleeing on a motorbike. A second man arrived at 2:58 am and smashed more windows before fleeing. The incidents caused panic among staff and locals, prompting a police investigation. The motivation remains unclear, but a possible connection between the vandals is suspected. The restaurant is closed for repairs as security concerns rise in the community.

Proposal for Foreign Land Leases in Thailand Requires Legal Revisions A proposal to allow foreigners to lease land in Thailand for up to 99 years may require major legal revisions, including amendments to the Treasury Department's 30-year lease cap. The proposal, first introduced by Thaksin Shinawatra, suggests landowners transfer their land title to the Treasury Department in exchange for full payment, while foreigners lease the land for 99 years. The proposal faces constitutional challenges and public consultation requirements. Opposition remains due to concerns about "selling the country," but long-term leases could alleviate ownership concerns. No official action has been taken yet.

The transcription below includes news stories from Thailand and Southeast Asia, featured on the Good Morning Thailand program, hosted by Alex. The topics range from proposals for legal revisions on foreign land leases in Thailand to calls for legalizing divorce in the Philippines, amidst the high costs of annulments. 1. Proposal for Foreign Land Leases in Thailand Requires Legal Revisions A proposal to allow foreigners to lease land for up to 99 years in Thailand may face legal challenges, requiring amendments to existing laws. Public consultations and concerns over "selling the country" remain unresolved. 2. Foreign Men Vandalise Phuket Restaurant Two foreign men shattered windows at Birds Cafe in Phuket in separate incidents within an hour, causing panic. The restaurant is closed for repairs as police investigate. 3. Thai Actress Criticises Police After Brother's Assault Thai actress Mint Wijitvongthong criticized police for their delayed response and leniency after her brother was assaulted by a Russian man in Bangkok. 4. Thai Airways Expands Partnership with Gulf Air Thai Airways has expanded its code-sharing agreement with Gulf Air, adding six new destinations to boost revenue and connect passengers to more global cities. 5. Thailand’s Sago Beetles Set for Global Export Thailand's sago beetles are being exported globally as the edible insect trend grows, with approval from the Thai FDA and interest from European countries. 6. Chon Buri Cemetery Transformed Into a Unique Cafe A Chon Buri cemetery has been converted into a community cafe, offering free refreshments to visitors. The project promotes community spirit and attracts tourists. 7. Vietnam Offers Amnesty to Foreign Prisoners Vietnam granted amnesty to 20 foreign prisoners, including two U.S. citizens, as part of a National Day pardon for over 3,760 inmates. 8. Japan's New Prime Minister Calls Snap Election Japan’s incoming Prime Minister, Shigeru Ishiba, announced a snap election for October to gain public support for his new administration and address key issues. 9. South Korean Officials Sentenced for Halloween Crush Three South Korean police officers were sentenced for negligence in the 2022 Itaewon Halloween crush, which killed nearly 160 people. Other officials were acquitted. 10. Calls for Legalising Divorce in the Philippines Calls to legalize divorce in the Philippines grow as expensive annulments remain the only option to end marriages, prompting a proposed Absolute Divorce Bill.

Thailand’s Business Ease Ranking Drops in Asia-Pacific Thailand’s ranking for business ease in the Asia-Pacific region has dropped from 9th place in 2022 to 12th in 2023, according to a survey by the Asia Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association (ASIFMA). The survey assessed market development, operating environment, and regulatory framework across 13 economies, with Singapore ranking first. Thailand’s decline reflects challenges in competitiveness and cost efficiency, though it maintained strengths in payment infrastructure and regulatory flexibility. With only 40% of businesses planning to expand in the region, Thailand faces increasing difficulties for future business growth.

7-Eleven Introduces PromptPay QR Code Payments Nationwide 7-Eleven has introduced PromptPay QR code payments across 480 branches in Thailand, making cashless transactions easier. Customers can now use their mobile banking apps to scan and pay, eliminating the need for cash. The service was officially announced on September 27, 2024, through the Consumer Facebook page, generating excitement among users. Traditional payment methods, including cash, TrueMoney Wallet, credit cards, and All Points, remain available. Although some users believe the service is nationwide, customer service clarified that PromptPay is currently only available at select branches.

Uncertainty Surrounds Tax Obligations for Thai Elite Visa Holders Speculation has arisen that holders of Thailand’s Elite Visa might be exempt from new tax rules requiring taxation of overseas income sent to Thailand. A webinar attendee suggested Elite Visa holders may not need a tax number, similar to Long Term Residence (LTR) visa holders. However, a group moderator clarified that the information came from a PowerPoint, not an official Thai Revenue Department (TRD) document. The TRD’s new tax rule applies to most tax residents but excludes LTR visa holders. Official clarification is expected before the 2024 tax year begins.

Heavy Rain and Strong Winds to Hit 38 Thai Provinces The Thai Meteorological Department has warned of heavy rain and strong winds hitting 38 provinces today due to a weakening southwest monsoon and a low-pressure system over northern Vietnam. Northeastern provinces are particularly at risk, and sailors are advised to avoid rough conditions at sea. Thunderstorms and rain are expected across northern, northeastern, central, eastern, and southern Thailand. Temperatures will drop by 1-3 degrees Celsius in the northeast after October 3, due to a cold air mass from China. Residents are urged to take precautions during this period of unstable weather.

Bang Khen Police Stop Illegal Street Race Police in Bang Khen intercepted a group of motorcyclists racing on Ram Inthra Road, organised via Facebook. The riders were performing dangerous stunts, including wheelies when police arrived around 2 am. Although many fled, officers apprehended 22-year-old Adisak and his unregistered Honda Lead motorcycle. Adisak admitted to arranging the race to showcase riding skills with friends. Police have seized the motorcycle and are proceeding with legal actions against him.

PETA Accuses Thai Zoo of Exploiting Baby Hippo Moo Deng for Profit PETA has accused Thailand’s Khao Kheow Open Zoo of exploiting Moo Deng, a baby pygmy hippo turned TikTok sensation, for profit. They argue that she belongs in the wild, not in captivity for entertainment. The zoo denies any mistreatment, warning visitors to respect the animals or face legal action. Moo Deng’s popularity has significantly boosted zoo revenue and sparked merchandise sales. However, some commenters disagree with PETA, stating the zoo is contributing to the conservation of the endangered species, native to West Africa with only around 2,500 left in the wild.

The transcription below features stories from Thailand and other Southeast Asian countries covered in Good Morning Thailand, hosted by Alex. Topics range from PETA's accusation against a Thai zoo for exploiting baby hippo Moo Deng to the potential landfall of Typhoon Krathon in Taiwan. PETA Accuses Thai Zoo of Exploiting Baby Hippo Moo Deng PETA claims Thailand's Khao Kheow Open Zoo is exploiting Moo Deng, a baby pygmy hippo and TikTok star, for profit. The zoo denies mistreatment, asserting the animal's popularity helps fund conservation efforts. Bang Khen Police Stop Illegal Street Race Police in Bang Khen stopped a group of motorcyclists racing on Ram Inthra Road. One rider, 22-year-old Adisak, was arrested. Legal action is underway. Heavy Rain and Strong Winds to Hit 38 Thai Provinces The Thai Meteorological Department warns of heavy rain and strong winds affecting 38 provinces, urging residents to take precautions and sailors to avoid rough seas. Thailand’s Business Ease Ranking Drops in Asia-Pacific Thailand dropped from 9th to 12th place in the Asia-Pacific for business ease, citing challenges in competitiveness and cost efficiency. The survey assessed 13 regional economies. Uncertainty Surrounds Tax for Thai Elite Visa Holders Speculation continues over whether holders of Thailand's Elite Visa will be exempt from new tax rules on overseas income. Clarification is expected before 2024. 7-Eleven Introduces PromptPay QR Code Payments Nationwide 7-Eleven now offers PromptPay QR code payments at 480 stores across Thailand, enhancing cashless transaction options, though the service is only available at select branches. Landslide Kills 15 at Illegal Gold Mine in Indonesia A landslide in an illegal gold mine on Indonesia’s Sumatra island has killed 15, with more missing. Heavy rains triggered the disaster, hampering rescue efforts. Malaysia’s Ruling Coalition Wins Second Straight By-Election Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s coalition won a by-election in Johor's Mahkota, solidifying public support and boosting political stability ahead of his 2025 fiscal reforms. Typhoon Krathon Likely to Make Landfall in Taiwan Typhoon Krathon is intensifying and may hit Taiwan’s Pingtung County by Tuesday. Heavy rain and potential floods are forecast, with several ferry services suspended.

Chiang Mai Flood Photo of Woman Pushing Motorcycle Goes Viral Again A 19-year-old photo of a Chiang Mai woman pushing her motorcycle through floodwaters has resurfaced and gone viral amid the province's current flooding. The 2005 image, shared on the Facebook page "Chiang Mai Unseen," shows Aew, who remarkably appears unchanged in recent photos. Social media users are captivated by her youthful appearance, with many expressing astonishment at how little she's aged. Aew humorously acknowledged the floods in a Facebook post, noting she's grown accustomed to them. The viral post has sparked widespread engagement, highlighting both nostalgia and the ongoing flood issues in Chiang Mai.

Russian Woman Rescued After Drifting at Sea for 7 Hours A 32-year-old Russian woman, identified as Junior, was rescued after drifting at sea for seven hours off the coast of Sattahip. On September 25, a local fishing boat spotted her 8 kilometres from shore, and a speedboat was sent to assist. She had gone for a swim after drinking a small amount of alcohol and unintentionally drifted far from shore, losing her sense of direction. Despite being exhausted, she was unharmed and taken to a hospital for a health check before being returned to her hotel.