Video News

Thailand Flip-Flops on Cannabis Laws Again: Thailand's cannabis laws face another twist as Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul pushes for legislation to legalize marijuana for medical use, contradicting recent re-criminalization proposals. Initially decriminalized in June 2022, marijuana saw a surge in recreational use. Anutin’s party now supports regulation strictly for health and economic benefits. New regulations may take effect from January 2025, banning unlicensed possession and sale of high-THC cannabis parts.

King Donates Land for New Sustainable Zoo in Pathum Thani: His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn has donated a 300-rai plot in Pathum Thani for a new, sustainable zoo to replace Bangkok’s Dusit Zoo. The zoo will open in phases starting in 2025 and aims to support local communities and wildlife conservation.

Bangkok Plans 130 New Parks and Doubles Tree Planting Goal: Governor Chadchart Sittipunt announced plans to add 130 new parks and double Bangkok's tree-planting goal to two million by 2026. This initiative aims to create accessible green spaces and make Bangkok more livable.

Srettha Thavisin Named Thailand’s Favorite Politician: Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has been named Thailand's favourite politician in a recent LINE TODAY survey, receiving 40.13% of the votes. This indicates strong public support for his leadership.

This transcription provides various stories from Thailand and Southeast Asia covered in the Good Morning Thailand program, hosted by Alex. The news stories range from a stabbing incident in Krabi, Thailand, to a deal aimed at defusing tensions in the South China Sea between China and the Philippines. Drunk American Stabs Australian to Death in Ao Nang An American man, Randall Owen Johnson, 43, fatally stabbed Australian Liam Michael Ross, 35, after a drunken argument near Nopparat Thara Beach in Ao Nang, Thailand. The incident happened around 2 a.m. on July 22, 2024. Johnson was arrested at the scene and taken to Ao Nang Police Station for further investigation. Concerns Over Bangkok Billboard Offering Foreign Passports Move Forward Party MP Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn raised concerns about a billboard in Bangkok’s Din Daeng area offering foreign passports for sale to Chinese nationals. Although the billboard has been removed, Wiroj warned it could attract transnational criminals to Thailand. Senate Factions Prepare for Leadership Elections Senate factions are gearing up for the election of the Senate Speaker and deputies on July 23. The New Breed, Blue group, and an independent faction have nominated their candidates, aiming to shape the future of the Senate and push for constitutional reforms. Srettha Thavisin Named Thailand’s Favorite Politician Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has been named Thailand's favourite politician in a recent LINE TODAY survey, receiving 40.13% of the votes. This indicates strong public support for his leadership. King Donates Land for New Sustainable Zoo in Pathum Thani His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn has donated a 300-rai plot in Pathum Thani for a new, sustainable zoo to replace Bangkok’s Dusit Zoo. The zoo will open in phases starting in 2025 and aims to support local communities and wildlife conservation. Bangkok Plans 130 New Parks and Doubles Tree Planting Goal Governor Chadchart Sittipunt announced plans to add 130 new parks and double Bangkok's tree-planting goal to two million by 2026. This initiative aims to create accessible green spaces and make Bangkok more livable. Indonesia Seeks Russian Oil for First Time in Years Indonesian refiner Pertamina is seeking to purchase Russian oil for the first time since the Russia-Ukraine conflict began in 2022. Pertamina's decision will depend on adherence to the price cap regulation. Vietnam to Hold State Funeral for Late Communist Party Leader Vietnam will hold a state funeral for the late Communist Party leader Nguyen Phu Trong on July 26, with two days of national mourning. Trong, who died at 80, led Vietnam for 13 years and promoted economic growth and anti-corruption measures. China and Philippines Reach Deal to Defuse South China Sea Tensions China and the Philippines have reached a temporary agreement to ease tensions around the Sierra Madre in the South China Sea. The deal aims to de-escalate standoffs and manage maritime differences while the Philippines continues to assert its territorial rights.

Senate Factions Prepare for Leadership Elections: Senate factions are gearing up for the election of the Senate Speaker and deputies on July 23. The New Breed, Blue group, and an independent faction have nominated their candidates, aiming to shape the future of the Senate and push for constitutional reforms.

Concerns Over Bangkok Billboard Offering Foreign Passports: Move Forward Party MP Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn raised concerns about a billboard in Bangkok’s Din Daeng area offering foreign passports for sale to Chinese nationals. Although the billboard has been removed, Wiroj warned it could attract transnational criminals to Thailand.

Drunk American Stabs Australian to Death in Ao Nang: An American man, Randall Owen Johnson, 43, fatally stabbed Australian Liam Michael Ross, 35, after a drunken argument near Nopparat Thara Beach in Ao Nang, Thailand. The incident happened around 2 a.m. on July 22, 2024. Johnson was arrested at the scene and taken to Ao Nang Police Station for further investigation.

Peta Protests Against Coconut-Picking Monkeys: Peta Asia protested at the Royal Thai Embassy in Kuala Lumpur, urging Thai authorities to stop using pig-tailed macaques for coconut picking. Protesters, dressed as "monkeys" in prison uniforms, highlighted the abuse and forced labour of these animals in Thailand's coconut industry. Peta Asia's senior VP, Jason Baker, emphasized that macaques are mistreated despite legal bans and past promises. Peta demands stricter enforcement to end macaque mistreatment.

Former MP Faces Charges for Missing House Session for Movie: Former Thai Civilised Party MP Mongkolkit Suksintharanon faces charges for breaching ethics by missing a House meeting to watch a film. The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) voted to charge Mongkolkit for his absence on December 15, 2021, when he took students to see "4Kings," a film about school rivalries. If convicted, he could face a lifetime political ban. Mongkolkit plans to defend himself in court and file a petition against the NACC for procedural failures.

'The White Lotus' Boosts Koh Samui Tourism: Koh Samui is experiencing a surge in tourism, with international accommodation searches up 26% and domestic searches up 8% in June compared to last year. This increase is linked to HBO's series "The White Lotus," which filmed its third season on the island. Agoda data shows Koh Samui attracting diverse travellers, especially from Israel, India, Germany, South Korea, and Malaysia. The 2025 release of "The White Lotus" starring Patrick Schwarzenegger and Lisa from BLACKPINK is expected to further boost tourism.

The transcription below provides the news stories from Thailand and Southeast Asia covered in the Good Morning Thailand program, hosted by Alex. The stories range from the surrender of a Myanmar couple for the murder of an Iranian man and his Thai wife to the discovery of 106 rare Siamese crocodile eggs in Cambodia. Myanmar Couple Surrenders for Murder of Iranian Man and Thai Wife Kyaw Myint Oo (23) and Ei December (19) from Myanmar surrendered to police in Nakhon Pathom, Thailand, over the murders of Iranian restaurateur Mojtaba Ghanbariazad (64) and his Thai wife, Thanaporn Poonprakhon (49). The couple, suspected of targeting the victims for valuables, entered Thailand via border passes. The victims were found strangled and bound in their South Pattaya home. The suspects fled on the victims' motorcycle, later abandoning it in Bangkok. They surrendered for illegal immigration and were sent to Mae Sot district. Thai police are coordinating with Myanmar authorities for further action. Deputy PM Anutin Opposes Cannabis Reclassification Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul opposes Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin's plan to reclassify cannabis as a Category 5 narcotic. Despite the ONCB's recent agreement to the reclassification, Anutin argues that more information is needed before proceeding. He emphasizes the need for mutual support within the coalition government but maintains distinct policy stances. Anutin will support reclassification only if evidence shows cannabis harms society and offers no health benefits. MFP Leader Confident Party Won't Be Dissolved Move Forward Party (MFP) leader Chaithawat Tulathon is confident the party will not be dissolved by the Constitutional Court on August 7, despite MP Rangsiman Rome's concerns. The Election Commission accused MFP of trying to overthrow the monarchy by pledging to amend the lese majeste law. Chaithawat remains optimistic, citing extensive written defences submitted to the court and plans to address the media on August 8. Peta Protests Against Coconut-Picking Monkeys Peta Asia protested at the Royal Thai Embassy in Kuala Lumpur, urging Thai authorities to stop using pig-tailed macaques for coconut picking. Protesters, dressed as "monkeys" in prison uniforms, highlighted the abuse and forced labour of these animals in Thailand's coconut industry. Peta Asia's senior VP, Jason Baker, emphasized that macaques are mistreated despite legal bans and past promises. Peta demands stricter enforcement to end macaque mistreatment. Former MP Faces Charges for Missing House Session for Movie Former Thai Civilised Party MP Mongkolkit Suksintharanon faces charges for breaching ethics by missing a House meeting to watch a film. The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) voted to charge Mongkolkit for his absence on December 15, 2021, when he took students to see "4Kings," a film about school rivalries. If convicted, he could face a lifetime political ban. Mongkolkit plans to defend himself in court and file a petition against the NACC for procedural failures. 'The White Lotus' Boosts Koh Samui Tourism Koh Samui is experiencing a surge in tourism, with international accommodation searches up 26% and domestic searches up 8% in June compared to last year. This increase is linked to HBO's series "The White Lotus," which filmed its third season on the island. Agoda data shows Koh Samui attracting diverse travellers, especially from Israel, India, Germany, South Korea, and Malaysia. The 2025 release of "The White Lotus" starring Patrick Schwarzenegger and Lisa from BLACKPINK is expected to further boost tourism. Vietnam's President Takes Over Party Duties Amid Health Speculations Vietnam's President To Lam has temporarily taken over the duties of Communist Party chief Nguyen Phu Trong, who is focusing on health treatment. The Politburo has tasked Lam with overseeing the Party Central Committee, the Politburo, and the Secretariat. Lam, a top candidate to replace Trong when his term ends in 2026, promises to continue the anti-corruption campaign. The Politburo's statement urged confidence in the party's leadership, and Vietnam's stock market rose 0.5% after the announcement. Cambodia Discovers 106 Rare Siamese Crocodile Eggs Conservationists in Cambodia discovered 106 eggs of the critically endangered Siamese crocodile in Cardamom National Park, marking the largest such find in 20 years. Sixty eggs hatched successfully between June 27 and 30. This significant finding underscores the area’s importance as a key habitat for the species' recovery. The Ministry of Environment is focusing on conservation and habitat restoration, offering renewed hope for the species’ survival.

MFP Leader Confident Party Won't Be Dissolved: Move Forward Party (MFP) leader Chaithawat Tulathon is confident the party will not be dissolved by the Constitutional Court on August 7, despite MP Rangsiman Rome's concerns. The Election Commission accused MFP of trying to overthrow the monarchy by pledging to amend the lese majeste law. Chaithawat remains optimistic, citing extensive written defences submitted to the court and plans to address the media on August 8.

Deputy PM Anutin Opposes Cannabis Reclassification: Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul opposes Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin's plan to reclassify cannabis as a Category 5 narcotic. Despite the ONCB's recent agreement to the reclassification, Anutin argues that more information is needed before proceeding. He emphasizes the need for mutual support within the coalition government but maintains distinct policy stances. Anutin will support reclassification only if evidence shows cannabis harms society and offers no health benefits.

Myanmar Couple Surrenders for Murder of Iranian Man and Thai Wife: Kyaw Myint Oo (23) and Ei December (19) from Myanmar surrendered to police in Nakhon Pathom, Thailand, over the murders of Iranian restaurateur Mojtaba Ghanbariazad (64) and his Thai wife, Thanaporn Poonprakhon (49). The couple, suspected of targeting the victims for valuables, entered Thailand via border passes. The victims were found strangled and bound in their South Pattaya home. The suspects fled on the victims' motorcycle, later abandoning it in Bangkok. They surrendered for illegal immigration and were sent to Mae Sot district. Thai police are coordinating with Myanmar authorities for further action.

Burglar in Udon Thani Steals TV and Fan, Uses Drugs, and Sniffs Underwear: In Udon Thani, a burglar broke into a house, stealing a TV and a fan, using drugs, and sniffing the owner's underwear. The house, managed by a relative named Oi, was found ransacked with drug paraphernalia and scattered underwear. Police are searching for the suspect. In a related case, a 36-year-old Cypriot man, Nicholas, was arrested for stalking and breaking into his ex-girlfriend’s condominium in Nakhon Pathom. He was detained in Bangkok on burglary and property damage charges.

https://youtube.com/shorts/-oyVscT2jLs?feature=share Thailand Explores Python Meat as an Alternative Protein Source: In Uttaradit, Thailand, thousands of pythons are raised for their skins, and scientists believe their meat could be a viable alternative protein source. Pythons have a better feed-to-meat ratio than traditional livestock. Despite the potential, python meat has not gained international popularity. Emilio Malucchi, a python farmer, struggles to create a market for it, though he consumes the meat himself. Challenges include strict processing standards and animal welfare concerns, but researchers advocate for its potential to address global food insecurity.

Nat Thaipun Wins MasterChef Australia 2024: Nat Thaipun won MasterChef Australia 2024, securing a $250,000 prize. Known for her risk-taking and unique culinary style, Nat impressed judges throughout the competition. Raised by Thai parents in Victoria, Nat blends her cultural heritage into her cooking. Her win includes opportunities to work with top chefs, including Jamie Oliver in London. Currently working at Hugh Allen's Vue de Monde, Nat aims to revolutionize kitchen environments and thrive under pressure.

The transcription below provides the news stories covered in the Good Morning Thailand program, hosted by Alex and Jay. The stories range from national news in Thailand to updates from Southeast Asian countries. Highlights include the update on six Vietnamese nationals found dead in a Bangkok hotel and the Australia-Asia Power Link Project receiving key approval. Six Vietnamese Nationals Found Dead in Bangkok Hotel in Suspected Murder-Suicide: Six Vietnamese nationals, including two Americans, were found dead in a Bangkok hotel. Police suspect a murder-suicide related to a 10 million baht debt. Sherine Chong, a Vietnamese-American, allegedly poisoned the others with cyanide before committing suicide. The group had invested in a failed Japanese hospital project and gathered in Thailand due to visa issues. No struggle or robbery was evident. Chong's motive appears to be financial distress. A Vietnamese guide admitted to obtaining a suspicious substance for one of the deceased. DNA results are expected on July 19. A Suspect Linked to the murder of Chinese Influencer arrested in Macau: Chinese influencer Yan Ruimin's decomposed body was found in Chachoengsao, Thailand, after she disappeared on June 30. Yan had 15,300 followers on Xiaohongshu and was last seen in Macau before planning a trip to Phuket. Her family received a 5 million baht ransom demand. CCTV footage linked her to Ma Qingyan, who was later arrested in Macau while pawning a fake luxury watch. Malaysia is considering criminalizing cyberbullying following Yan's death. DNA results on her remains are expected on July 19. Elderly Woman in Krabi Arrested for Selling Meth to Support Grandchildren: A 64-year-old woman named Haiya was arrested in Krabi Noi, Thailand, for selling methamphetamine to support her four grandchildren, aged 7 to 11. With her daughter and son-in-law addicted to drugs and her 70-year-old husband unable to work, Haiya resorted to selling meth. Police found 122 meth pills in her home. The local community faces widespread drug trafficking issues, and authorities urge the children's parents to seek treatment. Burglar in Udon Thani Steals TV and Fan, Uses Drugs, and Sniffs Underwear: In Udon Thani, a burglar broke into a house, stealing a TV and a fan, using drugs, and sniffing the owner's underwear. The house, managed by a relative named Oi, was found ransacked with drug paraphernalia and scattered underwear. Police are searching for the suspect. In a related case, a 36-year-old Cypriot man, Nicholas, was arrested for stalking and breaking into his ex-girlfriend’s condominium in Nakhon Pathom. He was detained in Bangkok on burglary and property damage charges. Thailand Explores Python Meat as an Alternative Protein Source: In Uttaradit, Thailand, thousands of pythons are raised for their skins, and scientists believe their meat could be a viable alternative protein source. Pythons have a better feed-to-meat ratio than traditional livestock. Despite the potential, python meat has not gained international popularity. Emilio Malucchi, a python farmer, struggles to create a market for it, though he consumes the meat himself. Challenges include strict processing standards and animal welfare concerns, but researchers advocate for its potential to address global food insecurity. Nat Thaipun Wins MasterChef Australia 2024: Nat Thaipun won MasterChef Australia 2024, securing a $250,000 prize. Known for her risk-taking and unique culinary style, Nat impressed judges throughout the competition. Raised by Thai parents in Victoria, Nat blends her cultural heritage into her cooking. Her win includes opportunities to work with top chefs, including Jamie Oliver in London. Currently working at Hugh Allen's Vue de Monde, Nat aims to revolutionize kitchen environments and thrive under pressure. Malaysia Looks to Criminalize Cyberbullying After TikTok User’s Death: Following the suicide of Malaysian TikTok user Rajeswary Appahu, who faced online threats, Malaysia is considering criminalizing cyberbullying. Law Minister Azalina Othman Said announced plans to define and penalize cyberbullying under the Penal Code. Two individuals have pled guilty to communication offences related to the case. The government aims to increase accountability for internet service providers and empower enforcement officers to protect online users. The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission will collaborate with police for a nationwide anti-bullying campaign. Australia-Asia Power Link Project Receives Key Approval to Export Solar Power to Singapore: The Australia-Asia Power Link (AAPowerLink) project, led by SunCable, has received key environmental approval from the Northern Territory Government. The project plans to transmit Australian solar power to Singapore via 4,300 km undersea cables. A massive solar farm in the Northern Territory will generate up to 10 gigawatts of clean energy, supplying power to Darwin and eventually delivering up to 4 gigawatts of continuous green electricity to Singapore. Despite the approval, the project faces challenges, including land negotiations and financing, with electricity supply projected to start in the early 2030s.

Six Vietnamese Nationals Found Dead in Bangkok Hotel in Suspected Murder-Suicide: Six Vietnamese nationals, including two Americans, were found dead in a Bangkok hotel. Police suspect a murder-suicide related to a 10 million baht debt. Sherine Chong, a Vietnamese-American, allegedly poisoned the others with cyanide before committing suicide. The group had invested in a failed Japanese hospital project and gathered in Thailand due to visa issues. No struggle or robbery was evident. Chong's motive appears to be financial distress. A Vietnamese guide admitted to obtaining a suspicious substance for one of the deceased. DNA results are expected on July 19.

A Suspect Linked to the murder of Chinese Influencer arrested in Macau: Chinese influencer Yan Ruimin's decomposed body was found in Chachoengsao, Thailand, after she disappeared on June 30. Yan had 15,300 followers on Xiaohongshu and was last seen in Macau before planning a trip to Phuket. Her family received a 5 million baht ransom demand. CCTV footage linked her to Ma Qingyan, who was later arrested in Macau while pawning a fake luxury watch. Malaysia is considering criminalizing cyberbullying following Yan's death. DNA results on her remains are expected on July 19.

Elderly Woman in Krabi Arrested for Selling Meth to Support Grandchildren: A 64-year-old woman named Haiya was arrested in Krabi Noi, Thailand, for selling methamphetamine to support her four grandchildren, aged 7 to 11. With her daughter and son-in-law addicted to drugs and her 70-year-old husband unable to work, Haiya resorted to selling meth. Police found 122 meth pills in her home. The local community faces widespread drug trafficking issues, and authorities urge the children's parents to seek treatment.

Thailand to Implement $13.8 Billion Digital Wallet Program: Thailand will start registration in August for a $13.8 billion Digital Wallet program, providing 10,000 baht in digital money to 50 million citizens. Announced in April, the scheme aims to boost the economy but faces criticism for its sustainability. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin expects the stimulus to increase GDP growth by 1.2 to 1.6 percentage points. Funding will come from the 2024-2025 budgets. The program excludes fraudsters and certain goods, with details to be finalized. The government pushes forward amidst a sluggish economy.

Kindergarten Finance Officer Arrested for Embezzling 2.8 Million Baht: A former kindergarten finance officer in Nakhon Sawan was arrested for embezzling over 2.8 million baht from a bilingual program. Managing registration fees between 2012 and 2015, the suspect allegedly diverted funds for personal use. After a Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission investigation, an arrest warrant was issued in September 2023. The suspect was apprehended in Chiang Mai and taken to the Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Region 6.

Man Kills Wife in Drunken Rage Over Hygiene Dispute: In Roi Et, Watcharin, 53, killed his wife Praitun, 44, in a drunken rage after she hadn’t bathed. The incident occurred on July 14 when Watcharin struck her with a wooden stick. Initially claiming she slipped in the bathroom, he later confessed to the assault. Police detained Watcharin and are gathering evidence for prosecution.