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Drunk Police Officer Causes Chaos in Pattaya A drunk police officer, Sergeant Sunthorn Hemphan, caused chaos in Pattaya by firing gunshots into the air, leading to a standoff with over 50 officers. The incident occurred in Soi Khao Noi, where the intoxicated officer barricaded himself in his home after discharging his weapon. Nearby residents were evacuated as police subdued and disarmed him after a 30-minute standoff. Known for erratic behavior fueled by alcohol and cannabis, the officer had a history of firing his weapon and causing disturbances. Sunthorn remains in custody as authorities consider disciplinary and legal actions.

Reckless Tourist Behavior in Phuket Draws Criticism A video of a tourist in Phuket standing beside a moving car while drinking beer and smoking a cigarette near Patong Beach has sparked criticism online. The clip shows the tourist passing the beer inside the car and re-entering after finishing his cigarette. Social media users questioned the driver's awareness and responsibility, with many calling for penalties for both the driver and the tourist. Locals expressed concerns about road safety and the negative impact on public order, urging tourists to act responsibly. The incident has reignited discussions about stricter accountability for reckless behavior in Thailand's popular tourist areas.

Intoxicated Tourist Walks Naked Through Phuket Hotel A visibly intoxicated foreign tourist was photographed walking naked through a hotel on Thaweewong Road in Patong, Phuket. Hotel security intervened, escorting the individual out and instructing them to dress. The incident, shared on the Facebook page "โหดจัง จังหวัดภูเก็ต" (Hodjang Phuket Province), sparked online discussions criticizing the behavior of some tourists under Thailand's relaxed visa policies. The event raises concerns about tourist conduct and its impact on local communities.

New Yorker Electrocuted by Faulty Streetlight in Thailand Thura Kyaw, a 33-year-old New Yorker visiting his long-distance girlfriend in Thailand, tragically died after being electrocuted by a faulty streetlight in the Thalang district. While walking to a seafood restaurant, Kyaw slipped on a wet sidewalk and grabbed a streetlight for support, which delivered a fatal shock due to a suspected live wire. A bystander was also briefly shocked while trying to help but managed to pull Kyaw away. Despite being rushed to Thalang Hospital, Kyaw was pronounced dead. The tragedy highlights infrastructure safety concerns in the area.

Fatal Massage Incidents in Thailand Spark Safety Concerns A Singaporean tourist, Lee Mun Tuck, and Thai singer Chanida Phraohom tragically died after separate massage experiences in Thailand. Lee collapsed after a massage in Phuket and later died at Patong Hospital, with an autopsy underway. Chanida, known as Phing Chanida, suffered worsening symptoms, including immobility, after repeated neck manipulations during massages in Udon Thani. These incidents have raised concerns about massage safety in Thailand, a cultural staple celebrated for its therapeutic benefits. Authorities are investigating, and the tragedies may prompt stricter regulations to ensure patron safety while preserving the essence of Thai massage.

The following transcription features news stories from across Thailand and Asia, hosted by Alex on the Good Morning Thailand program. The stories cover a range of topics, from fatal massage incidents raising safety concerns in Thailand to Malaysia's introduction of a Digital Arrival Card for visitors. 1. Fatal Massage Incidents Spark Safety Concerns in Thailand The tragic deaths of a Singaporean tourist and a Thai singer after massage experiences in Thailand have raised safety concerns about the nation’s traditional massage practices. Authorities are investigating the incidents, prompting discussions on stricter regulations to ensure patron safety. 2. Thailand Shelves Controversial VAT Hike Proposal The proposed VAT increase from 7% to 15% has been reportedly shelved following backlash from the restaurant and hotel sectors. Business leaders warn of economic impacts, suggesting alternative measures to support SMEs while avoiding drastic price hikes. 3. Faulty Streetlight in Phuket Claims Tourist’s Life A New Yorker visiting Phuket tragically died after being electrocuted by a faulty streetlight. This incident has highlighted concerns about infrastructure safety and the urgent need for improvements in public utilities. 4. Drunk Police Officer Causes Standoff in Pattaya A drunken police sergeant fired gunshots and barricaded himself in his Pattaya home, causing a standoff with authorities. The officer, with a history of erratic behavior, was subdued after a tense 30-minute operation. 5. Reckless Tourist Behavior Sparks Outrage in Phuket A tourist in Phuket was filmed drinking beer and smoking while hanging out of a moving car, sparking criticism online. Locals have called for stricter penalties to ensure road safety and responsible behavior in tourist hotspots. 6. Naked Tourist Incident Raises Concerns in Phuket A drunk tourist walking naked through a hotel in Phuket has sparked discussions about visitor conduct and its impact on local communities. The incident highlights challenges tied to relaxed visa policies and tourist behavior. 7. Syria’s Assad Seeks Asylum in Russia Amid Transition Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad has fled to Moscow following his resignation and a peaceful transfer of power. This marks a significant shift in Syria’s political landscape, with Russia advocating for UN-led negotiations. 8. Indonesia Repatriates Filipina on Death Row Indonesia will repatriate Mary Jane Veloso, a Filipino woman on death row for drug trafficking, as part of a diplomatic agreement with the Philippines. The move underscores strengthened ties between the two nations. 9. Vietnam Suspends Chinese Retailer Temu Vietnam has suspended Temu, a Chinese online retailer, over registration compliance issues. Authorities are concerned about its impact on local businesses and are investigating its operations for regulatory violations. 10. Malaysia Introduces Digital Arrival Card for Visitors Malaysia now requires international travelers to complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) three days before entry, aiming to streamline immigration and enhance public health security.

Thailand to Legalize Same-Sex Marriage Thailand will officially legalize same-sex marriage next month, becoming the third region in Asia, after Taiwan and Nepal, to do so. The Marriage Equality Bill, endorsed by the Royal Gazette on September 24, takes effect on January 22, 2024, granting same-sex couples the right to legally marry. Preparations include updating marriage registration systems, removing gender-specific terms, and training staff nationwide. The law applies to individuals aged 18 and older, with guardian consent required for those under 20. Broader legal revisions aim to ensure equal rights for same-sex couples in areas like surrogacy, nationality, and gender recognition.

Monk's Clever Eyebrow Fix Enables Payment A monk in Thailand overcame a welfare payment glitch when inventive store staff used black adhesive tape to create makeshift eyebrows, allowing a facial recognition system to verify his identity. The issue arose because the system couldn't recognize the monk's eyebrow-less appearance, a result of Buddhist practices. Shared on Facebook, the clever fix quickly went viral, amassing nearly 8,000 reactions. Photos of the incident, showing the monk's temporarily taped eyebrows and staff laughing at the workaround, highlight the humorous yet serious challenges technology can pose for cultural practices.

Thai PM Expects Fishermen’s Return from Myanmar Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra stated her government is negotiating with Myanmar for the release of four Thai fishermen captured for trespassing in Myanmar's waters. The fishermen, detained alongside 27 Myanmar nationals, are reported safe. The Thai Navy acknowledged the incursion but criticized Myanmar's use of force, which reportedly led to one death and two injuries. Myanmar’s military confirmed the detention, denying any intrusion into Thai waters, and emphasized ongoing diplomatic communication. Thailand maintains relatively warm relations with Myanmar despite the latter's contentious human rights record.

Phuket Woman Exposes Underwear Thief A Phuket woman has publicly called out a man for repeatedly stealing her underwear for inappropriate purposes and later returning it to her clothes rack. The victim, who resides in the Sam Kong neighborhood, shared her ordeal with the Phuket Times, hoping to shame the perpetrator into stopping. A video shows the man stealing and concealing underwear before returning it. While some commenters mocked the thief's audacity, others criticized the victim for drying her garments outside. Suggestions ranged from applying deterrents like pepper to taking legal action, though it's unclear if authorities have been involved.

Fire Destroys Iconic "Ship Hotel" on Koh Chang A massive fire engulfed Koh Chang’s iconic abandoned ship hotel, the Koh Chang Grand Laguna, on December 3. The blaze, fueled by wooden structures and strong winds, has consumed about 50% of the landmark, making containment efforts by over 50 responders challenging. Reportedly starting during welding repairs, the fire has spread from the ship's stern to upper decks, with authorities estimating days to fully extinguish it. Built in 1992, the unique ship-like hotel once thrived but was abandoned due to financial issues. No casualties were reported, and investigations into the fire's cause are pending.

Cannabis Retail Chain Faces Extortion Allegations Two former employees of a cannabis retail chain in Thailand have accused managers and an HR officer of false embezzlement claims, extortion, and physical assault. CCTV footage shows the HR officer slapping a worker during a heated exchange, reportedly linked to allegations of embezzlement during a promotional campaign. Employees were allegedly forced to pay compensation of up to 100,000 baht or sign guilt-admitting documents under threat of resignation. The HR officer, defending her actions, claims she has evidence and denies coercion, asserting the payments were voluntary. The incident is under investigation, with no further updates from Thai authorities.

The transcription below features news stories from Thailand and Southeast Asia, as presented in the Good Morning Thailand program hosted by Alex and Jay. Highlights include Fire Destroys Iconic "Ship Hotel" on Koh Chang and South Korea Declares Martial Law Amid Political Crisis. 1. Fire Destroys Iconic "Ship Hotel" on Koh Chang A massive fire has consumed 50% of Koh Chang’s iconic ship hotel, the Koh Chang Grand Laguna. Over 50 responders are battling to contain the blaze, which reportedly started during welding repairs. No casualties have been reported. 2. Phuket Woman Exposes Underwear Thief A Phuket woman has publicly exposed a man who repeatedly stole her underwear and later returned it. The victim shared her story to deter the thief and raise awareness. 3. Thailand to Legalise Same-Sex Marriage Thailand will legalise same-sex marriage on January 22, 2024, becoming the third region in Asia to do so, following Taiwan and Nepal. 4. Cannabis Retail Chain Faces Extortion Allegations Former employees of a cannabis retail chain in Thailand allege extortion and physical assault by managers and an HR officer. The incident is under investigation. 5. Thai PM Expects Fishermen’s Return from Myanmar Thailand is negotiating with Myanmar for the release of four fishermen detained for trespassing. Diplomatic talks are ongoing amid tensions. 6. Monk's Clever Eyebrow Fix Enables Payment A monk in Thailand went viral after store staff used tape to create makeshift eyebrows, allowing a facial recognition system to verify his identity. 7. Indonesia Secures $1 Billion Apple Investment Apple has committed $1 billion to Indonesia to lift an iPhone 16 sales ban, aiming to meet local content requirements and boost job creation. 8. Exxon Considers Selling Singapore Fuel Stations Exxon Mobil is reportedly planning to sell its 59 Esso-branded stations in Singapore, a move aligning with its focus on higher-growth markets. 9. South Korea Declares Martial Law Amid Political Crisis South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law citing political threats but reversed the decision within hours following parliamentary opposition. 10. Cambodia Blocks Crypto Exchanges Amid Cleanup Cambodia has banned 16 unlicensed crypto exchanges, including Binance, in a move to address rising crypto-related crimes and improve regulation.

Israeli Attacked in Thailand Amid Rising Safety Concerns A 22-year-old Israeli backpacker, Mr. Ilay, was assaulted by a group of German tourists in northern Thailand, intensifying safety fears for Israelis in the region. The unprovoked attack, marked by insults targeting his nationality, left him with injuries, fueling concerns about hostility toward Israeli tourists. This incident coincides with Israel’s National Security Council raising Thailand’s travel warning to Level 2, urging vigilance rather than evacuation. Israeli authorities advise tourists to avoid large gatherings, maintain a low profile, and refrain from publicizing travel plans.

University Sports Event Hit by Hidden Camera Scandal A university sports event in Surin was shaken by the discovery of hidden cameras in the athletes’ bathroom, sparking public outrage. A suspect, who initially denied the allegations, was found with over 30 explicit videos on his phone, shared via a messaging app. Athletes grew suspicious of the man’s repeated visits to the bathroom over three days. After a volleyball player alerted their coach, an investigation revealed a camera disguised as a charger. Despite the suspect's denials, police uncovered substantial evidence, confirming privacy violations and igniting calls for stricter security measures at public events.

Russian Actress Kamilla Belyatskaya Dies in Cliffside Tragedy in Thailand Kamilla Belyatskaya, a 24-year-old aspiring Russian actress, was swept to her death by a giant wave while meditating on a yoga mat at Koh Samui’s Lad Ko viewpoint. The tragic incident occurred during a vacation with her boyfriend. Footage shows Belyatskaya being struck by the wave and struggling in the rough currents. Rescue efforts were hindered by 9-foot waves, and her body was later found two-thirds of a mile from the scene. Authorities stated the area wasn’t a swimming zone but warned tourists of dangerous conditions during monsoon season. Access to the rocky area has since been closed to prevent further accidents.

Foreign Man Swims in Bangkok’s Polluted Canal, Sparks Outrage A viral video shows a foreign man swimming in Bangkok's heavily polluted Khlong Saen Saep, shocking Thai netizens. Known for its industrial waste, untreated sewage, and dangerous boat traffic, the canal poses severe health and safety risks. Critics expressed concern over the man’s exposure to bacteria and the threat of boat collisions, with some recalling the canal's oil slicks and trash-covered waters. While a few defended his personal freedom, most condemned the act as reckless, reigniting discussions about Bangkok’s environmental challenges. The incident highlights the urgent need for stricter measures and greater public awareness to address pollution and improve water safety.

Thailand PM Faces Flood Response Backlash Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra faced criticism over her handling of severe floods affecting 10 southern provinces, displacing over 664,000 households and claiming 22 lives. Critics accused the government of a slow response as seven provinces remain in critical condition. The PM defended her efforts, citing the quick deployment of officials and financial aid plans, while heavy rains are forecast to worsen conditions. Her comments linking her southern husband to her concern for the region sparked further backlash, with political figures calling her remarks insensitive and urging her to visit affected areas.

Thai AirAsia Ticket Fraud Allegations: Key Points Thai AirAsia denied ticket fraud claims, attributing the issue to their app managed by a supplier. Reports emerged via Esor News, alleging over 100,000 victims of failed bookings with no refunds. Customers reported frustrating interactions with AI chatbots and a lack of response from Thai AirAsia’s official channels. The airline stated that its app, AirAsia MOVE Thailand, encountered technical issues and urged patience as the supplier resolved the problem. Victims shared stories of financial losses, some dating back years, amplifying public outrage.

The transcription below presents news stories from Thailand and the broader Asia region, hosted by Alex and Jay on The Good Morning Thailand program. Highlights include Thai AirAsia denying ticket fraud allegations and a foreigner swimming in a Bangkok canal, sparking debate. 1. Thai AirAsia Fraud Claims: Thai AirAsia denies ticket fraud allegations, blaming app issues managed by a supplier. Victims report years of unresolved losses. 2. PM Faces Flood Criticism: Thailand’s PM faces backlash over flood response as critics label efforts slow amidst worsening conditions. 3. Israeli Tourist Attacked: A 22-year-old Israeli backpacker was assaulted in Thailand, intensifying safety concerns for Israeli visitors. 4. Hidden Camera Scandal: The University in Surin was marred by hidden cameras in bathrooms during the event, sparking privacy concerns and calls for tighter security. 5. Actress's Tragic Death: Russian actress Kamilla Belyatskaya died after being swept by a wave in Koh Samui. Authorities closed the area for safety. 6. Canal Swimming Outrage: A foreigner’s swim in Bangkok’s polluted canal sparked health concerns and highlighted environmental challenges. 7. Malaysia Warns China: Malaysia cautioned Chinese firms against rebadging goods to dodge U.S. tariffs amid rising trade tensions. 8. Singapore Execution Criticized: Singapore executed a fourth individual in three weeks for drug trafficking, drawing international criticism. 9. Russian Submarine in EEZ: A Russian submarine in the Philippines' EEZ raised concerns amid regional tensions and maritime disputes. 10. Bear Rampage in Japan: A bear injured a worker and ransacked a Japanese supermarket before being captured, reflecting rising urban bear encounters.

Thailand’s M81 motorway opens free for the New Year Thailand’s new M81 motorway, connecting Bang Yai in Nonthaburi to Kanchanaburi, will be open for free travel from December 26 to January 2. This 96-kilometre route aims to ease holiday traffic congestion and enhance regional connectivity. Previously, 51 kilometres of the motorway had been available for weekend trials, but the entire route is opening earlier than planned. Only four-wheel vehicles are allowed, with a speed limit of 80 km/h. Key entry and exit points include Bang Yai, East and West Nakhon Pathom, Tha Maka, Tha Mueang, and Kanchanaburi. The initiative doubles as a holiday gift and a step toward improved transport efficiency.

Thailand property reforms target foreign buyers Thailand is debating property law reforms to attract foreign investment, proposing measures like raising the foreign ownership limit in condominiums from 49% to 75% and extending land leaseholds to 90 years. Proponents believe these changes could boost the sluggish economy by revitalizing the real estate market. Critics, however, warn of risks to national sovereignty, inflated property prices, and foreign influence over Thai property. The Housing Business Association suggests safeguards, such as minimum property prices for foreign buyers, higher taxes, and restrictions on property management roles. The reforms aim to balance economic benefits with public concerns, but their success depends on careful implementation.

Phuket governor proposes monorail to ease traffic Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat has proposed a monorail system to address the island's worsening traffic congestion. Presented as an alternative to the stalled light rail project, the monorail is seen as cost-effective, requiring less land and avoiding additional road congestion. Discussions with private sector stakeholders are underway, with plans to seek approval from the Ministry of Transport. The governor also suggested implementing AI-controlled traffic lights as part of broader traffic management strategies. Traffic woes, particularly in tourist-heavy areas like Patong and Karon, underline the urgency of a sustainable solution.

Thai police raid illegal cockfighting ring Police in Nakhon Phanom arrested 49 individuals during a raid on an illegal cockfighting ring in a rural area after a tip-off. Over 100 gamblers were found at the site, with some fleeing into nearby fields. Authorities seized fighting cocks valued at 40,000 baht, equipment, and cash. The owner of the premises and others were detained for questioning. The ring, operating on weekends without authorization, highlights the persistence of illegal gambling in the region. Investigations are ongoing to address the issue.

Rama II Road congestion eased with reversible lane Efforts to ease traffic on Rama II Road are underway following a deadly construction collapse on November 29, which killed three people and injured over 10. The Highways Department introduced a reversible lane to manage outbound traffic, operational daily from 7 am to 9 pm on a one-kilometer stretch. Cleanup of fallen concrete segments is progressing, but removing the gantry crane will take two weeks. The collapse, part of the M82 motorway project linking Bangkok to southern provinces, occurred during bridge welding, highlighting safety concerns. The contractor, Udomsak Chiang Mai Company, faces scrutiny as investigations continue.