Video News

Thailand Tourism Soars with 30 Million Visitors in 2024 Thailand's tourism is thriving, with over 30.5 million foreign visitors between January and mid-November, generating 1.43 trillion baht in revenue. Key markets include China (5.97 million tourists), Malaysia (4.36 million), and India (1.82 million). The Loy Krathong festival spurred a 4.53% increase in short-haul arrivals from China, Japan, and South Korea. High season is expected to bring more European visitors, aided by expanded airline seat capacity and eased visa rules. With a target of 36.7 million tourists this year, Thailand is nearing its pre-pandemic peak of 40 million in 2019.

The transcription below features news stories from Thailand and Asia, hosted by Alex and Jay. Highlights include a Thai woman sentenced to death for cyanide murders and New Delhi’s pollution reaching hazardous levels. 1. Thai Woman Sentenced to Death for Cyanide Murders A Thai court sentenced Sararat Rangsiwuthaporn, 36, to death for using cyanide to kill a friend, uncovering a series of 14 alleged murders since 2015. Known as "Am Cyanide," Sararat reportedly poisoned victims, stole valuables, and funded her gambling addiction. Her friend's death in 2023 led to her arrest, with investigators finding cyanide traces and stolen possessions. Sararat denies the charges, while her ex-husband and lawyer received jail terms for evidence tampering. 2. Petrol Prices Rise in Thailand Due to Global Oil Shifts Petrol and gasohol prices in Thailand rose by 30 satangs per litre on November 21, pushing petrol to 44.24 baht per litre and Gasohol 95 to 35.95 baht. Diesel prices remain stable. The hike, driven by global oil market changes, could increase transportation and goods costs. Commuters are encouraged to adjust budgets and consider carpooling or public transport. 3. Thai Health Minister Rejects 24-Hour Alcohol Sales in Hotels Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin has blocked 24-hour alcohol sales in hotels and on trains, citing safety concerns. Proposals for round-the-clock alcohol availability were declined, though in-room minibar consumption may be allowed under new guidelines. Somsak emphasized stricter alcohol regulations to ensure public safety. 4. Thailand Welcomes Over 30 Million Tourists in 2024 Thailand’s tourism industry has rebounded, with 30.5 million visitors from January to mid-November, generating 1.43 trillion baht. Key markets include China, Malaysia, and India. The Loy Krathong festival and relaxed visa rules boosted arrivals, while the high season is expected to draw more European travelers. Thailand is on track to meet its 36.7 million visitor target for 2024. 5. White Spots on Thai Sausage Are Harmless, Experts Say A viral photo of Thai sausage, sai ua, raised safety concerns due to visible white spots. Experts clarified that the spots are harmless and part of the natural casing. Social media discussions highlighted the importance of understanding traditional food preparation and preserving culinary heritage. 6. Fundraiser Supports Injured British Teacher in Thailand A fundraiser has collected over £11,000 for Andy Davis, a British teacher injured in a Krabi crash. Davis, who lost a leg and sustained severe injuries, faces medical costs of over £30,000. Complications have worsened his condition, requiring further care. Donations continue to support him through GoFundMe. 7. Indonesia Agrees to Repatriate Mary Jane Veloso Indonesia will repatriate Mary Jane Veloso, a Filipino on death row for drug trafficking, to serve her sentence in the Philippines. Veloso, granted a reprieve in 2015, claims she was duped into becoming a drug courier. Her return, expected in December, will enable her to testify against human traffickers involved in her case. 8. Taiwan Extradites Golfer for Drug Smuggling Taiwan extradited a 30-year-old golf champion suspected of smuggling 51 kg of marijuana from the U.S. in sofa parts. Linked to the Bamboo Union gang, the suspect was arrested with help from U.S. law enforcement. Authorities also detained seven others in the case, highlighting international efforts against drug trafficking. 9. Australians Hospitalized After Alcohol Poisoning in Laos Two Australian tourists are recovering in Thailand after consuming methanol-contaminated drinks in Laos. The women fell ill after free vodka shots at a hostel in Vang Vieng. Methanol poisoning, which can be fatal, remains a risk for travelers consuming unregulated alcohol. 10. New Delhi’s Pollution Hits Hazardous Levels New Delhi’s air quality plunged to hazardous levels, prompting school closures and construction bans. Toxic smog from crop burning, emissions, and coal use worsened conditions, putting millions at health risk. Authorities imposed emergency restrictions, but experts stressed long-term solutions to the crisis.

Thai Police Officer Investigated Over 500 Baht Bribe Claim in Khon Kaen A Thai traffic police sergeant in Khon Kaen is under investigation after a viral video showed him accepting a 500 baht bribe. While the officer admitted to taking the money and claimed to have returned it, disciplinary and criminal proceedings have been initiated. Colonel Yoswat Kaewsupthanit confirmed the incident occurred in August and reassigned the officer during the inquiry. He criticized the officer for bypassing proper procedures, emphasizing that fines should be issued through official channels. A fact-finding committee has been set up to investigate, with results expected in seven days.

New Alcohol Control Bill Nearly Finalised Thailand's Alcoholic Beverage Control Bill is 80% complete and expected to be presented to parliament by mid-December. The legislation consolidates five initial drafts into a single proposal after eight months of review. Key features include empowering provincial committees to establish zoning and regulations tailored to local needs, with youth council representatives included to address underage drinking. The bill targets rising alcohol consumption, particularly among women, and includes strict penalties for selling to minors or intoxicated individuals. Parliament is expected to prioritize this public health-focused legislation in the December session.

200 Monkeys Run Riot in Thailand, Forcing Police to Barricade Their Own Station In Lopburi, Thailand, 200 monkeys escaped from enclosures, wreaking havoc across the town and forcing police to barricade themselves inside their station. The primates rampaged through streets and perched on the station's roof, prompting authorities to lure them away with food. Lopburi, home to thousands of monkeys revered for their connection to the Hindu god Hanuman, has struggled with the growing population's aggressive behavior and vandalism. Despite sterilization and relocation efforts, the uneasy coexistence continues, fueled by the town's long-standing religious and tourist traditions, including an annual fruit feast for the macaques.

Nakhon Phanom: Drugs Found Hidden in Buddha Statues Seized Thai police in Nakhon Phanom seized heroin and crystal meth worth over 100 million baht, hidden inside Buddha statues. Acting on a tip-off, authorities discovered three abandoned statues near a cemetery, which concealed 12kg of heroin and 117kg of methamphetamine packaged in tea bags. The drugs, believed to have originated from Laos, were smuggled across the Mekong River. Police suspect a broader trafficking network exploiting religious artifacts.

Drunk British Tourist’s Pattaya Night Out Ends in Punch-Up A drunk British tourist in his 60s was injured in a brawl with two locals in Pattaya after a night out. The altercation occurred when the locals offered to drive him home, but the man allegedly became aggressive and attacked them. The fight left him with a broken nose and cuts. The locals, two entertainment technicians, claimed self-defense, stating the tourist struck their vehicle and initiated the conflict. Police are reviewing CCTV footage to clarify the events and ensure a fair resolution.

Thai Transwoman and Foreigner Clash Over Gender Misunderstanding in Phuket A clash erupted between a Thai transwoman and a foreign man in a Phuket hotel after the man discovered her gender and refused to compensate her for her time. The argument escalated into a physical altercation in the hotel room, causing disruption. Shared by Phuket Times on Facebook, the incident drew significant attention, with over 5,000 reactions. Many commenters criticized the transwoman for not disclosing her gender upfront, citing issues of sexual preference and potential safety concerns.

The transcription below features news stories from Thailand and Southeast Asia, hosted by Alex and Jay. Topics range from a gender misunderstanding clash in Phuket to Cambodia's efforts to combat foreign-led human trafficking. 1. Phuket Clash Over Gender Misunderstanding A Thai transwoman and a foreign man clashed in a Phuket hotel after he discovered her gender and refused compensation for her time. The dispute escalated into a physical altercation, shared widely online, drawing over 5,000 reactions. Critics highlighted the importance of upfront gender disclosure, citing safety and personal preferences. 2. Drunk British Tourist Brawls in Pattaya A drunken British tourist in his 60s brawled with two locals in Pattaya after allegedly becoming aggressive when they offered him a ride. The fight left him injured with a broken nose. Locals claim self-defence, and police are reviewing CCTV footage to clarify the incident. 3. Drugs Found in Buddha Statues in Nakhon Phanom Police in Nakhon Phanom seized heroin and meth worth over 100 million baht hidden in Buddha statues near a cemetery. Believed to originate from Laos, the drugs point to a larger trafficking network exploiting religious artefacts. 4. Thai Officer Probed Over Bribe in Khon Kaen A Khon Kaen traffic sergeant faces investigation after a viral video showed him accepting a 500-baht bribe. Though he returned the money, disciplinary action is underway. Authorities stress fines must follow official procedures. 5. New Alcohol Bill Nears Completion Thailand's Alcohol Control Bill, now 80% complete, will empower local zoning laws and target underage drinking. With strict penalties for selling to minors, the bill aims to curb rising alcohol consumption and will reach Parliament by mid-December. 6. 200 Monkeys Cause Chaos in Lopburi In Lopburi, 200 monkeys escaped, rampaging through streets and forcing police to barricade their station. Authorities lured them away with food, highlighting ongoing struggles with the town’s growing macaque population despite sterilization efforts. 7. Apple Offers $100M to End Indonesia iPhone Ban Apple proposed a $100 million investment to lift Indonesia’s iPhone 16 ban, imposed for not meeting local content rules. Indonesia seeks greater R&D contributions, reflecting its push for local manufacturing, though aggressive demands may deter investors. 8. Typhoon Man-yi Devastates the Philippines Typhoon Man-yi killed seven in the Philippines, triggering landslides, displacing 700,000 people, and destroying 8,000 homes. Rescue efforts are ongoing, with officials warning of severe infrastructure damage and rice shortages. Aid is mobilizing to address the crisis. 9. Cambodia Targets Foreign-Led Human Trafficking Cambodia is ramping up efforts against human trafficking by foreign perpetrators, including scams and cross-border exploitation. Officials face challenges investigating cases involving evidence abroad, underscoring the need for international cooperation. 10. Mahathir Criticizes Chinese Signboards in Malaysia Former Malaysian PM Mahathir Mohamad criticized the dominance of Chinese-language signboards in Kuala Lumpur malls, urging greater use of Malay. His comments sparked debate over cultural identity and catering to growing Chinese tourism.

Denmark won Miss Universe 2024, Thailand shines as third runner-up Denmark won Miss Universe 2024, while Thailand’s Opal Suchata Chuangsri secured the third runner-up position, earning global admiration. The 21-year-old from Phuket, fluent in Thai, English, and Chinese, overcame a health scare to raise breast cancer awareness. Opal’s journey began with Miss Rattanakosin and led to Miss Universe Thailand 2022, where she was promoted to second runner-up. At Miss Universe 2024, she won four awards, including Voice for Change and Media Favorite, and advanced to the top 20 through fan votes. Opal’s resilience and advocacy for change make her a national inspiration.

Thailand plans 14 floating solar farms to boost renewable energy Thailand’s Electricity Generating Authority (EGAT) plans 14 new floating solar farms across seven hydroelectric dams under the 2024 Power Development Plan (PDP). These projects, totaling 2,656 megawatts, aim to boost renewable energy's share from 20% in 2023 to 51% by 2037, while reducing fossil fuel reliance from 70% to 45%. EGAT’s first floating solar farm began operations in 2021 at Sirindhorn Dam, and two more are planned for 2024. Three new farms, costing 13 billion baht, will launch by 2027. The PDP aligns with Thailand’s renewable energy goals, connecting projects to the national grid.

Cold air and storms sweep across Thailand A cold air mass is sweeping across Thailand, bringing thunderstorms and cooler weather, with 32 provinces, including Bangkok, set to be affected. Temperatures in the northeast may drop by 2-4°C, while other regions, including Bangkok, will see a 1-3°C decrease. The Thai Meteorological Department warns of health risks from the changing weather and advises caution during foggy travel and heavy rain. Farmers should prepare for potential crop damage. The northeast monsoon is causing scattered heavy rain in southern Thailand, with waves reaching over 2 meters in stormy areas. Residents should brace for cool, foggy mornings and isolated storms.

British student jailed for smuggling cannabis from Thailand A British student’s attempt to smuggle 33kg of cannabis from Thailand to Amsterdam ended in arrest during a layover in Vienna. The 29-year-old claimed he was lured by a promise of €10,000 to cover university tuition, worth up to €100,000. His girlfriend, 24, was also arrested. Facing up to 15 years in prison, the court showed leniency, sentencing him to 30 months, with only six months served due to time already detained. The girlfriend received a suspended one-year sentence. The judge emphasized “general prevention,” highlighting the consequences of criminal acts, even under financial strain.

Thai PM meets Xi Jinping at APEC, deepening ties with China Thai PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra met Chinese President Xi Jinping at the APEC Summit in Peru, marking the Golden Year of Thai-Chinese Friendship. They pledged to enhance ties in trade, innovation, clean energy, space technology, and education while supporting cultural exchanges and the Global Civilisation Initiative. Thailand backed China's hosting of APEC 2026, and Xi confirmed increased agricultural imports, investments, and cooperation on cross-border crime. A significant gesture included transferring the Buddha Tooth Relic to Thailand, symbolizing deep cultural ties. The relic will be enshrined in Bangkok on December 4 for King Rama X’s 72nd birthday.

Thailand enhances Suvarnabhumi Airport with faster immigration system Thailand's Immigration Bureau is modernizing Suvarnabhumi Airport's immigration system to balance efficiency and security. The Thailand Immigration System (TIS) will streamline passenger processing, reducing wait times to under 20 minutes by eliminating manual steps and using advanced technology. Daily passenger volumes of 120,000 are expected to peak at 135,000, prompting the need for additional staff and resources. New systems cut processing time per passenger to 45 seconds, while the Advanced Passenger Processing System enhances security by flagging international threats. The TIS, set for completion in two years, will integrate AI and automatic channels similar to Singapore's Changi Airport.

The transcription below provides news stories from across Thailand and Asia. The stories range from Thailand upgrading Suvarnabhumi Airport's immigration system to Cambodia’s water festival attracting millions. 1. Faster Immigration at Suvarnabhumi Airport Thailand is upgrading Suvarnabhumi Airport's immigration system, aiming to cut processing times to 45 seconds per passenger and reduce overall wait times to under 20 minutes. 2. Thai PM Deepens Ties with China Thai PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra met President Xi Jinping at APEC, agreeing on trade, clean energy, and education initiatives. The Buddha Tooth Relic will arrive in Bangkok on December 4. 3. British Student Jailed for Smuggling Cannabis A British student was sentenced to 30 months for attempting to smuggle 33kg of cannabis from Thailand to Amsterdam, with his girlfriend receiving a suspended sentence. 4. Cold Front Sweeps Across Thailand A cold front is bringing storms, cooler weather, and temperature drops to 32 provinces. Heavy rain and fog pose risks for travelers and crops. 5. Thailand Expands Renewable Energy with Solar Farms Thailand plans 14 new floating solar farms at hydroelectric dams, boosting renewable energy use to 51% by 2037 under its latest energy plan. 6. Denmark Wins Miss Universe, Thailand Shines Denmark took the Miss Universe crown, while Thailand’s Opal Suchata Chuangsri earned third runner-up for her advocacy and resilience. 7. Biden Strengthens Trilateral Alliance at APEC President Biden met Japanese and South Korean leaders at APEC, focusing on regional security and launching a new Trilateral Secretariat. 8. Bangladesh Seeks Hasina’s Extradition Bangladesh's interim leader plans to extradite former PM Sheikh Hasina from India for alleged human rights violations during her tenure. 9. Malaysia Protests Philippines’ Maritime Claims Malaysia formally protested the Philippines' new maritime laws, citing sovereignty concerns over Sabah and overlapping claims in the South China Sea. 10. Cambodia’s Water Festival Attracts Millions Cambodia's Water Festival drew over 6.2 million attendees, celebrating Khmer traditions with boat races and cultural festivities in Phnom Penh.

Phuket Tourists Criticized for Risky Tuk-Tuk Behavior Thai netizens expressed outrage over foreign tourists engaging in risky behavior on baht buses and tuk-tuks in Phuket, citing safety concerns. Photos shared by The Phuket Times showed tourists dancing and leaning out of vehicles stuck in traffic, sparking criticism toward local police for their lack of enforcement. While some commenters defended the tourists as wedding celebrants, others emphasized the potential dangers. Comments ranged from frustration over safety risks to resigned humor about the frequency of such incidents. So far, Phuket authorities and police have not issued any response.

Koh Pha Ngan Officials Dismiss Terror Threat Rumors Thai police have dismissed rumors of a terror plot targeting Israeli visitors on Koh Pha Ngan, reassuring tourists of their safety. Despite warnings from Israeli authorities, Thai officials, including district chief Noppadol Khaomali and Police Colonel Panya Niratmanon, clarified that the claims lack any credible evidence. Security has been enhanced for the Full Moon Party and Loy Krathong festival, with joint patrols by police, military, and local officials ensuring a safe environment. Officials emphasized that tourists can enjoy festivities without worry, though Israelis are advised to remain vigilant.

Nakhon Ratchasima Firework Crackdown Aims to Keep Kids Safe for Loy Krathong Ahead of this year’s Loi Krathong festival, police in Nakhon Ratchasima launched a crackdown on firework shops to protect children from dangerous explosives. Led by Police Colonel Anek Srikitrat and District Chief Chananan Khumkhong, officers inspected shops for proper licenses and safety standards. The focus was on preventing sales to minors and ensuring vendors advised parents about supervising young users. While all inspected shops met licensing and safety standards, officials emphasized the risks of unsupervised use by children, aiming for a safe festival experience for all, especially young ones.

Thailand’s Diabetes Crisis: Over 6.5 Million at Risk The Public Health Ministry in Thailand has warned that over 6.5 million Thais, about 10% of the population, are at risk of diabetes, with most cases being preventable type 2 diabetes. Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin urges citizens to adopt healthier lifestyles, as 40% of those affected may not know they have diabetes. The ministry is promoting carb-counting and balanced diets through village health volunteers, emphasizing low-sugar fruits, vegetables, and exercise. Dr. Panumas Yanwetsakul, Director-General of the DDC, highlights this year’s World Diabetes Day theme, stressing the need for diabetics to manage not just physical but also mental and social well-being.

Indian Tourist Injured in Pattaya Convenience Store Assault An Indian tourist, Mr. Anngad Chandhok, was assaulted outside a Pattaya convenience store after a dispute over a purchase. Following a verbal confrontation with store staff, he was reportedly pushed outside, where an unidentified man attacked him, causing serious injuries, including a fractured leg. Witnesses claim store employees escalated the conflict, allegedly calling in someone from outside to intervene. Police are investigating the incident, reviewing CCTV footage to identify the assailant. With major festivals approaching, Pattaya Police emphasize restoring tourist confidence in the city’s safety.

Nigerian Leader of Thai Fraud Ring Arrested in 50M Baht Scam Thailand’s Department of Special Investigation (DSI) arrested a Nigerian national, identified as the leader of a fraud network responsible for scams using horse accounts, with damages exceeding 50 million baht. Known as “Operation Black Horse Down,” the crackdown targeted a gang of Thai and Nigerian nationals linked to romance scams, call center fraud, and drug-related crimes, involving over 1,000 horse accounts. The DSI, with support from AMLO, detained six suspects and is working to track financial routes and seize assets. Under Thailand's Cybercrime Act, those aiding in fraud may face severe penalties, including prison and fines.

The transcription below provides the stories from across Thailand and Asia. The stories range from Indian tourist injured in Pattaya convenience store assault to American tourist arrested for vandalizing Tokyo shrine. 1. Indian Tourist Injured in Pattaya Convenience Store Assault: An Indian tourist, Mr. Anngad Chandhok, was seriously injured outside a Pattaya store after a dispute. Police are investigating the incident. 2. Thailand’s Diabetes Crisis: Over 6.5 million Thais are at risk of diabetes, prompting a health initiative for lifestyle changes to combat the issue. 3. Nigerian Leader of Thai Fraud Ring Arrested in 50M Baht Scam: Authorities arrested the leader of a fraud network in a crackdown on scams causing significant financial losses. 4. Nakhon Ratchasima Firework Crackdown for Loy Krathong: Police enforce stricter safety regulations on firework sales to ensure a safe festival for children. 5. Koh Pha Ngan Officials Dismiss Terror Threat Rumors: Thai police assure tourists of safety, despite unconfirmed rumors targeting Israeli visitors. 6. Risky Tourist Behavior in Phuket: Photos of tourists dancing on tuk-tuks spark safety concerns, but officials have yet to respond. 7. Mount Lewotobi Eruptions in Indonesia: Recent eruptions have displaced over 10,000 people, as rescue operations continue. 8. Taiwan Defense Talks with U.S.: Taiwan engages in defense discussions with the U.S. without additional arms requests, focusing on strategic support. 9. American Tourist Arrested in Tokyo Shrine Vandalism: A tourist was detained for defacing a sacred shrine in Tokyo, amid rising concerns over disrespectful actions by visitors.

Thailand’s PM Pushes Investment Amid Trump’s Win Thai PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra is leveraging Donald Trump’s recent election win to attract foreign investors to Thailand. Speaking in LA, she urged Thai diplomats to actively promote the country as an investment destination, emphasizing the need to adapt to shifting global dynamics. Her administration’s strategy includes a new Matching Fund for Thai businesses, scholarships for students abroad in key sectors, and initiatives to bring Thai talent back home. Meeting with Thai expats, she highlighted their potential role in Thailand’s growth and accepted a donation for flood relief. PM Paetongtarn continues her investment push at the APEC summit in Peru.

Child Abuse Allegations Rock Chiang Mai Orphanage The Social Development and Human Security Ministry is revoking the license of a Chiang Mai orphanage after serious child abuse claims. Following a former caregiver's testimony of severe punishments, officials intervened, rescuing 17 children now under temporary protection. Medical examinations were conducted, and the orphanage board has filed charges against implicated staff. The ministry is reviewing the orphanage’s legal compliance, with a meeting set for November 21 to decide on further actions. Minister Varawut Silpa-archa warned childcare organizations against exploiting children, pledging full legal action for violations.