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Thailand Police Chief Launches 15-Point Crackdown on Foreign Crime Thailand’s National Police Chief, Pol Gen Kittirat Panpet, announced a 15-point plan on November 4 to combat foreign crime and enhance public safety. The plan emphasises strict immigration control, targeting foreign criminals and tightening border security to prevent illegal entries. This initiative also involves heightened monitoring of criminal networks, especially those involving foreigners, and closer collaboration with neighbouring countries to curb cross-border crime. A new “Cyber Check” app, set for release in 2025, aims to protect citizens from online fraud. Gen Kittirat stresses police integrity, transparency, and fair treatment of law-abiding foreigners while ensuring strict penalties for law violators.

Bangkok Car Plunge Shocks Residents; Driver Escapes with Minor Injuries A car plunged from a 3rd-floor parking lot in a Bangkok condominium, leaving the 69-year-old driver with only minor injuries. The accident occurred around 11:15 a.m. in the Pinklao area when the car unexpectedly accelerated, breaking through the parking wall and landing on its roof below. Photos shared online show significant damage to the wall, raising concerns about high-rise parking safety. Authorities are investigating potential causes, including driver error or mechanical failure. In response, the condominium management has pledged to enhance safety measures and repair the damaged structure, prioritising resident safety.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Phuket’s tourism tax won’t affect foreign residents or workers Phuket’s upcoming tourism tax, set for early next year, will not apply to foreigners residing or working in Thailand. The Ministry of Tourism and Sports (MoTS) clarified that the tax's specifics are yet to be finalized and have not been presented to the Cabinet, meaning potential changes could occur. The tax will primarily target short-term tourists, with exemptions for those holding non-immigrant or immigrant visas or valid work permits. MoTS advises keeping informed about any updates to the policy as it develops.

Thailand Raises Retirement Age to 65 in All Sectors Thailand's Labour Ministry is increasing the retirement age to 65 for both private and government sectors, citing improved life expectancy and aligning with global standards. The ministry plans to amend the Social Security Act to include migrant workers and self-employed individuals, like taxi drivers and delivery riders, in the social security system. Contributions from employers, employees, and the government will increase by a total of 6.25%. Additionally, the ministry aims to convert variable medical costs into fixed expenses by involving insurance companies. Investment strategies will shift, aiming for a 5% return by 2025 to extend fund viability amidst an ageing population.

Thai baht may weaken if Trump wins US election Analysts predict the Thai baht could weaken further if Donald Trump wins the US presidency, possibly dropping below 34.50 against the dollar. The baht recently fell to 33.84 due to capital outflows, as stronger US bond yields and the dollar's performance impact regional currencies. Rising US Treasury yields and election uncertainties are driving investors towards safer assets like the dollar and gold. While Kasikorn Research forecasts US rate cuts, Thailand’s Monetary Policy Committee is expected to hold domestic rates steady, reflecting local economic conditions. Investors anticipate market recovery post-election.

Bangkok’s air quality worsens as PM2.5 levels rise Bangkok is facing rising PM2.5 pollution levels this weekend, worsened by cool weather and poor air circulation, with the highest concentration recorded in Nong Khaem district at 51.1µg/m³. PM2.5 levels ranged from 19.5µg/m³ to 53.8µg/m³ this morning. While a tropical cyclone in the South China Sea may bring rain next week to reduce pollution, current conditions keep air quality concerns high. Residents are advised to take precautions. Meanwhile, cooler temperatures are affecting the northern regions, and rain in Bangkok could provide temporary relief.

The transcription below features news stories from Thailand and across Southeast Asia, as covered in Good Morning Thailand, hosted by Alex. Highlights include stories such as Phuket’s Tourism Tax Won’t Affect Foreign Residents or Workers and Cambodian Journalist Freed After Apology Video. Phuket’s Tourism Tax Won’t Affect Foreign Residents or Workers Phuket’s tourism tax, expected early next year, will exempt foreign residents and workers, according to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. The tax, targeting short-term tourists, is still pending final approval. The ministry advises staying updated on policy changes. Thai Baht May Weaken if Trump Wins US Election Analysts warn the Thai baht could dip below 34.50 against the dollar if Trump wins the US presidency, as rising US Treasury yields and economic uncertainty prompt capital outflows. Market recovery is expected post-election. Bangkok’s Air Quality Worsens as PM2.5 Levels Rise Bangkok's PM2.5 pollution levels surged this weekend, especially in Nong Khaem district, due to cool weather and poor air circulation. While rain next week may reduce pollution, current conditions raise health concerns. Thailand Raises Retirement Age to 65 in All Sectors Thailand’s Labour Ministry is increasing the retirement age to 65 across sectors to reflect improved life expectancy. New amendments will expand social security, benefiting migrant and self-employed workers. Heroic Driver Stops Gunman in Phatthalung In Phatthalung, a driver named Phrom intervened to stop a gunman targeting passing vehicles. After ramming the motorcycle, the suspect fled. Police are now preparing an arrest warrant for attempted murder. Tourists and Officials Save Injured Turtle Kamkaew Tourists and officials rescued an injured turtle, Kamkaew, at Mae Khaeng Luang Waterfall. Taken for treatment, Kamkaew’s injuries are not life-threatening, and recovery efforts are underway until its return to the wild. Backlash in Malaysia Over Chinese Flags at Cultural Event Malaysia’s Communications Minister urged the public to avoid racially charged comments following a cultural event displaying Chinese flags. The incident, under police investigation, has stirred social media responses. Deadly Flooding and Landslides Hit the Philippines Tropical Storm Trami has left 85 dead and 41 missing in the Philippines due to severe flooding. Rescue efforts continue as isolated areas are reached, with over 5 million people affected and many in emergency shelters. Cambodian Journalist Freed After Apology Video Journalist Mech Dara has been released on bail following an apology video aired by a pro-government outlet. Detained earlier for alleged “incitement,” Dara’s arrest raised concerns from human rights groups and the U.S. Indonesia Stages Its First Deaf Musical, ‘Songs of Silence’ Jakarta’s Fantasi Tuli (Deaf Fantasy) staged Indonesia’s first musical featuring deaf performers, "Songs of Silence." With dialogue screens and sign language, the production promotes equality and awareness for the deaf community.

California Doctor Sues Thai Restaurant Over Spicy Dish Burns A California neurologist, Harjasleen Walia, is suing a Thai restaurant after claiming she suffered permanent injuries from eating a spicy dish, Dragon Balls, at Coup de Thai in Los Gatos. Walia alleges that despite requesting a milder version, the dish caused severe burns to her throat, nose, and vocal cords due to the intense heat of bird’s eye chili. She is seeking over $35,000 in damages, accusing the restaurant of negligence for not testing the spice level. The restaurant denies responsibility, stating the dish cannot be made less spicy. The trial is set for August 2025.

The transcription below covers a range of news stories from Thailand and across Southeast Asia. Topics include Thailand’s plan to implement a 300-baht tourism tax for air travelers and the recent UK asylum granted to Singapore’s founding father’s son amid a family feud. Thailand to Implement 300-Baht Tourism Tax for Air Travelers Thailand plans to introduce a 300-baht tourism tax for air travelers, starting within six months. Foreign visitors will pay via an app or website, with 60 baht covering accident insurance. Revenue will support tourism safety, with expansion to other travel types under consideration. Drunk Motorcyclist Crashes into Pattaya Repair Shop A drunk motorcyclist crashed into a Pattaya repair shop on October 24, sustaining serious injuries. Local police are investigating to determine liability for damages caused in the early morning accident. Blacksmith’s Violent Attack Unsettles Thai Village In Nakhon Si Thammarat, a blacksmith poisoned dogs and attacked a father and son, leaving one critically injured. The suspect remains at large amid ongoing tensions from a long-standing feud. Scandal Surrounds Police Chief’s Wife Over Alleged Affair and Theft The wife of a former Thai Deputy Police Commissioner turned herself in after accusations of theft and infidelity. Legal proceedings are underway, with high public interest in the ongoing scandal. Foreigner Causes Disturbance at Chiang Mai Market Over Smoking Ban A foreign man sparked tension at a Chiang Mai market by ignoring a no-smoking rule, leading to a confrontation with a vendor. The incident has raised online discussions about cultural respect. California Doctor Sues Thai Restaurant Over Spicy Dish A California doctor is suing a Thai restaurant, claiming a dish’s spice level caused severe burns. She seeks $35,000 in damages, while the restaurant denies fault, stating the dish cannot be made less spicy. Indonesia Expels Chinese Ship from National Waters Indonesia forced a Chinese vessel to leave its Exclusive Economic Zone, citing disruption of a seismic survey. The incident highlights ongoing tensions over the South China Sea. South Korea and Poland Condemn North Korean Troops in Russia South Korean and Polish presidents criticized North Korea's support of Russia in Ukraine. Both leaders emphasized security cooperation and Poland's purchase of South Korean K2 tanks. Former Malaysian Leader Apologizes for 1MDB Scandal but Claims Innocence Najib Razak, former Malaysian Prime Minister, apologized for the 1MDB scandal but denied personal involvement. He remains in prison, with another trial pending. Singapore Founder’s Son Gains UK Asylum Amid Feud Lee Hsien Yang, son of Singapore's founder, was granted asylum in the UK, claiming persecution by the Singaporean government. The family dispute continues, with Singapore denying claims of oppression.

Foreigner Wreaks Havoc at Chiang Mai Market After Smoking Ban Warning A foreign man caused chaos at Chiang Mai's Chang Phuak market on October 23 after being asked to stop smoking near a dessert stall. Despite clear no-smoking signs, the man lit a cigarette near a gas stove, prompting the vendor to politely request he put it out for safety reasons. Infuriated, he threw a lit cigarette at the vendor and damaged the stall. The situation escalated until the vendor threw water at the man to extinguish the cigarette. The man's friend later apologized, ending the confrontation. The incident sparked online debates about cultural respect and local regulations.

Police Chief’s Wife Faces Scandal Over Alleged Affair and Theft Sirinatda "Kubkip" Hakparn, wife of former Deputy Police Commissioner Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn, turned herself in after being accused of an affair and theft of 5.7 million baht. The allegations were made by a woman named Thanattha, who claimed Sirinatda had an affair with her husband and used a spare key to steal valuables, including cash and gold, from her condo in Bangkok. Sirinatda denied the accusations, stating her lawyer would handle the case. DNA tests on cash bags are pending. Big Joke did not accompany his wife or comment publicly.

Blacksmith Causes Chaos in Thai Village with Violent Attack A Thai village in Nakhon Si Thammarat was thrown into chaos when a local blacksmith, Adirek, poisoned three dogs and violently attacked a father and son. The incident, driven by a feud, left 48-year-old Suthat with a stab wound to his arm and his son, Thanyagon, critically injured with a chest wound. Earlier, Adirek had poisoned their dogs, leaving only one alive. Adirek then returned, attacking the family with a wooden stick and knife. The altercation stems from a four-month-long dispute. Adirek, known for becoming violent when drunk, remains at large as police search for him.

Drunk Motorcyclist Crashes into Pattaya Repair Shop A drunk motorcyclist lost control and crashed into a repair shop in Pattaya early on October 24, resulting in serious injuries. The accident occurred on Pattaya Central Road near Soi 8/1. Pattaya police, along with the Sawang Boriboon Rescue Foundation and a medical team, responded to the scene around 1:30 a.m. The man, who had no identification, appeared heavily intoxicated and suffered a large head wound. He was treated on-site before being transported to a local hospital. Police are investigating to determine legal liability for the damages.

Thailand to Introduce 300-Baht Tourism Tax for Air Travelers Thailand is set to implement a 300-baht tourism tax for air travelers, potentially starting in the next six months. The tax will be paid via a dedicated website or app, similar to South Korea's K-ETA system. This initiative, spearheaded by the Tourism and Sports Ministry, aims to charge foreign visitors 300 baht, with 60 baht covering a 30-day insurance premium for accidents. The government is refining details for cabinet approval in January 2024. The tax could later expand to overland and sea travelers, with revenue supporting tourism safety measures.

Andaman International Airport set to open by 2030 The Andaman International Airport in Phang Nga is set to open by 2030, with the project progressing well, according to the House Committee for Transportation. Located in Khok Kloi and Lo Yung sub-districts, the airport will span over 7,300 rai, feature two runways, and accommodate 43 flights per hour, serving 22.5 million passengers annually. Initially planned for a forest area, the project was relocated due to conservation concerns. A 20-million-baht contract was signed for a feasibility study, covering economic and environmental factors. The airport aims to alleviate pressure on Phuket Airport, which is nearing capacity.

The transcription below features news stories from Thailand and across Southeast Asia. These include a tragic drowning in Phuket and the encouraging progress in the comeback of Siamese crocodiles in Cambodia. Intoxicated woman flips car in Pattaya, claims 'heartache' caused accident A 29-year-old woman in Pattaya flipped her car after driving under the influence. She told police her "heart hurt" but could not recall how the accident happened. Earlier, police had escorted her to safety due to her intoxicated state. Tragic drownings in Phuket claim the lives of a boy and a British tourist A five-year-old Chinese boy and a 43-year-old British tourist died in two separate drowning incidents in Phuket on October 22. Both were pronounced dead after being pulled from the water and rushed to hospital. Bangkok drug gang suspect flees after shooting at police A drug gang suspect remains at large after firing five shots at police during a Bangkok chase. His accomplice was arrested with a large drug stash, but the fugitive, considered armed and dangerous, is still on the run. Police rush to arrest Tak Bai massacre suspects before deadline Authorities are intensifying efforts to apprehend suspects involved in the 2004 Tak Bai massacre before the statute of limitations expires on October 25. Some suspects have fled the country, but police are pushing for arrests. Thai man arrested for stealing from Russian couple at Kata Beach A Thai man was arrested for stealing a gold iPhone, cash, and a ring from a Russian couple at Kata Beach. Police recovered most of the stolen items, and the man, along with an accomplice, is facing legal action. Andaman International Airport set to open by 2030 The Andaman International Airport in Phang Nga is progressing well and is expected to open by 2030. It will ease congestion at Phuket Airport and serve 22.5 million passengers annually. Surfer dies after being impaled by swordfish in Indonesia A 36-year-old Italian surfer, Giulia Manfrini, died in Indonesia after being impaled by a swordfish while surfing. The tragic accident has shocked the surfing community, and tributes have been paid to her passion for life. Malaysia charges 22 members of Islamic group for organized crime Twenty-two members of the Global Ikhwan Services and Business Holdings group, linked to the banned Al Arqam sect, were charged with organized crime in Malaysia. The charges follow a raid that rescued over 500 children from suspected abuse. Tropical Storm Trami brings floods and fatalities in the Philippines Tropical Storm Trami has caused seven deaths and forced 30,000 evacuations in the Philippines, with heavy flooding hitting the Bicol region. The storm is expected to make landfall on Luzon by Thursday. Siamese crocodile comeback in Cambodia sees progress Conservation efforts in Cambodia have led to a comeback for the critically endangered Siamese crocodile. Breeding programs and habitat protection in the Cardamom Mountains are showing promising results.

Thai man arrested for stealing from Russian couple at Kata Beach A Thai man, Surachai, was arrested for stealing from a Russian couple at Kata Beach, Phuket, on October 18. The couple had left their belongings unattended while enjoying the beach when Surachai took their items and fled on a motorcycle. The stolen goods included a gold iPhone 13 Pro Max, cash, credit cards, and a gold ring. Police tracked Surachai to a rented room in Chalong, where he confessed to the crime. Most of the stolen items were recovered, though some cash had already been spent. The phone was traced to a local shop after being sold. Both Surachai and an accomplice, Tom, are now facing legal proceedings.

Tragic drownings in Phuket claim lives of a boy and a British tourist Two tragic drowning incidents occurred in Phuket on October 22, resulting in the deaths of a five-year-old Chinese boy and a 43-year-old British tourist. Karon Police confirmed that the young boy, Zhang Zhiqjanna, lost consciousness while swimming with his mother at a hotel pool near Karon Beach. Despite immediate CPR and hospital transport, the boy could not be revived. In a separate incident, a British tourist was pulled from the waters at Karon Beach around 4 pm by a bystander. Despite hospital efforts, he too was pronounced dead. Police are working with both embassies and withholding further details pending family notification.