Video News

Foodpanda to Exit Thailand on 23 May Foodpanda has announced that it will officially cease operations in Thailand on 23 May 2025. The news has come as a shock to many, with the delivery giant citing that the current market environment no longer aligns with its long-term strategic goals. After years of delivering meals to millions across the country, Foodpanda expressed gratitude to customers, restaurant partners, and riders. The decision is believed to be influenced by rising operational costs, fierce competition, and shifting consumer habits. While Foodpanda bows out, platforms such as GrabFood and LINE MAN are expected to fill the void. Users have until 23 May to make their final orders. As one of the major players in Thailand’s food delivery boom, Foodpanda’s exit marks the end of an era and raises important questions about the future of digital delivery services in the country.

Foodpanda to Exit Thailand on 23 May Foodpanda has announced it will cease operations in Thailand on 23 May 2025. The company cited rising operational costs, fierce competition, and shifting consumer habits as reasons for the decision. GrabFood and LINE MAN are expected to fill the gap in the food delivery market. Users have until May 23 to make their final orders. 120 Million Baht Compensation for SAO Collapse Victims China Railway No. 10 (Thailand) has pledged 120 million baht in compensation to victims of the State Audit Office (SAO) building collapse in Nakhon Ratchasima. The collapse resulted in 51 deaths and many still missing. Investigations are ongoing, with four suspects involved in the case. Miss Universe Strips Thai Runner-Up of Title Opal Chuangsri has been stripped of her third runner-up title at Miss Universe for breaching her contract by participating in Miss World Thailand. Despite this, Opal will continue to represent Thailand in Miss World 2025, focusing on women’s empowerment and cancer advocacy. Bangkok to Require Pet Registration and Microchipping by 2026 Starting 10 January 2026, Bangkok residents must microchip and register their pets. The new regulation aims to reduce stray animal populations and improve public safety, with restrictions on the number of pets based on residence size. Dangerous breeds must be reported to authorities. Cambodia and Thailand Pledge to Prevent Cross-Border Hostilities Cambodian PM Hun Manet and Thai PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra have committed to preventing their territories from being used to harm each other. The pledge focuses on maintaining border stability and enhancing military cooperation as part of ASEAN’s broader peace and security strategy. Malaysia and China Extend Visa-Free Travel for Five More Years Malaysia and China have agreed to extend their visa-free travel arrangement for another five years, allowing a 90-day stay for tourists. The move is expected to boost Malaysia's tourism, particularly with Chinese arrivals, and supports the upcoming Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign.

Thailand Cuts 2025 Tourism Target Amid Global Risks Thailand has revised its 2025 tourism revenue forecast from 3.5 trillion to 3 trillion baht, citing global instability including travel safety concerns, climate-related disruptions, and trade tensions. Of the new target, 2 trillion is expected from international tourists and 1 trillion from domestic travellers. The Tourism Authority is shifting focus toward high-spending markets while reassessing less profitable ones, with a new marketing plan to be announced soon.

French Tourist Nabbed for Dangerous Driving in Patong A 23-year-old French tourist named Ali was arrested in Patong for reckless behaviour, including running red lights and riding without a helmet. Caught on CCTV, his actions triggered swift intervention by Thai immigration officials. He was located at a hotel, fined, and formally charged before issuing an apology. Officials reiterated their commitment to tourist safety while warning that laws will be strictly enforced in Phuket’s popular destinations.

Hat Yai Nude Photo Scandal Triggers Investigation Outrage has erupted in Hat Yai after explicit nude images taken at sacred religious sites, including the iconic Phra Phuttha Mongkhon Maharat Buddha statue, were shared online. The photos, posted by a group known as OutdoorHDY, have prompted widespread condemnation for disrespecting spiritual landmarks. Local police are reviewing CCTV footage to identify the individuals involved. The scandal reflects a growing tension between online sensationalism and respect for cultural heritage, with locals demanding accountability and preventive measures.

Australian Arrested with Firearm on Bangla Road A 31-year-old Australian man, identified as McGahey, was arrested in Patong’s nightlife hub carrying a loaded .38-calibre handgun with ammunition. The early-morning arrest occurred during a police patrol on Bangla Road. The man now faces charges for possessing a firearm without a permit and unlawfully carrying a loaded weapon in public. Authorities stress continued vigilance to uphold safety in tourist-heavy areas.

Thai Cabinet Approves Digital Licence Renewals Thailand's Cabinet has approved a plan to let eligible drivers renew their licences online without requiring physical tests. The digital initiative, led by the Transport Ministry, aims to cut down on administrative burdens. Qualification will depend on health and age criteria set by the Department of Land Transport. The policy will come into effect 90 days after its publication in the Royal Gazette.

King Cobra Startles Surat Thani School Community Rescue teams in Don Sak, Surat Thani, were called to capture a large king cobra that appeared near a community school on 21 April. The incident caused a commotion among locals, but the snake was safely caught and later released into a forest area. Videos of the event shared online have drawn attention to the bravery of responders and the importance of human-wildlife coexistence.

French Tourist Arrested in Patong A French tourist was arrested in Patong for reckless driving after being caught on CCTV running red lights and riding without a helmet. He was fined and later apologised for his behaviour. Thai authorities stressed that while tourists are welcome, the law must still be respected. Australian Caught with Gun in Patong An Australian man was arrested in Phuket’s Bangla Road with a loaded, illegal handgun during a late-night patrol. Police found eight bullets and holsters in his possession. He faces charges related to firearm possession without a permit and carrying it publicly without reason. King Cobra Near Surat Thani School A king cobra was spotted near a school in Surat Thani, drawing concern from locals. Rescue workers responded quickly and safely captured the snake, later releasing it into the wild. The moment was caught on video and praised online for both the team’s courage and care for wildlife. Thailand Cuts 2025 Tourism Forecast Thailand has lowered its 2025 tourism revenue target from 3.5 to 3 trillion baht due to global instability. The Tourism Authority plans to shift focus to high-spending travellers from key regions. Officials aim to future-proof the industry against unpredictable external factors. Online Driving Licence Renewals Approved Thailand's Cabinet has approved online driving licence renewals for eligible drivers without requiring physical tests. The move aims to cut down on travel time and improve public services through digitalisation. It will take effect 90 days after its announcement in the Royal Gazette. Cambodian PM Denies Pro-China Shift Cambodia’s Prime Minister Hun Manet has rejected claims that the country is drifting too close to China. He insists that Cambodia maintains balanced international relations and welcomes cooperation with all nations. Critics were responding to a recent joint statement with China. Vietnam Cracks Down on Trade Fraud Vietnam is cracking down on transhipment fraud to avoid harsh US tariffs, especially on goods suspected of Chinese origin. Officials are ramping up checks on product origins and monitoring spikes in “Made in Vietnam” labels. The move aligns with trade talks and efforts for transparency. Malaysian Cardinal to Vote for Pope Malaysia’s Cardinal Sebastian Francis will vote in the conclave to elect a new Pope after the death of Pope Francis. He becomes the second Malaysian to ever participate in the process. The election, held in the Sistine Chapel, is expected to reflect the late Pope’s inclusive legacy. Filipinos Mourn Pope Francis Filipinos are mourning the loss of Pope Francis, especially recalling his heartfelt visit in 2015 to typhoon-struck Leyte. Many remember his compassion and progressive values on justice and Church reform. Known as “Lolo Kiko,” he left a deep and lasting impression on the country.

Police Under Fire After Thai Man Shot Dead at Checkpoint The fatal shooting of a 35-year-old man in Chachoengsao province has raised concerns about excessive use of force by Thai police. The man reportedly fled a police checkpoint, leading to a chase where officers fired a warning shot before shooting him in the back. He later died in hospital. While police argue the suspect posed a threat, his family maintains he was unarmed and panicked. The incident has triggered public outrage and calls for an independent inquiry. Human rights groups are urging greater accountability as the Royal Thai Police review CCTV footage and promise transparency.

Indian Man Caught Scrubbing Passport to Conceal Thai Holidays from Wife An Indian man has gone viral for attempting to remove travel stamps from his passport to hide trips to Thailand from his wife. The deception was discovered during a visa application, when officials noticed several pages had been chemically tampered with. While he faces no criminal charges, his passport has been flagged as compromised and his visa denied. The incident has sparked amusement online, with many speculating what he might have been up to during his travels. Authorities have reminded the public that altering official documents, even for personal reasons, is a serious offence with legal consequences.

Thailand Braces for Heatwaves and Summer Storms The Thai Meteorological Department has warned of scorching heat and sudden storms across 28 provinces. Temperatures are topping 40°C in Bangkok and the Central region, while northern provinces face thunder, hail, and strong winds. Authorities urge caution as the heat index reaches dangerous levels and unpredictable weather threatens crops and travel. Russian Teacher Sparks ‘Farang’ Term Debate in Thailand A Russian language teacher in Thailand has ignited online debate by calling out the term “farang” as a racial double standard. She argues that if saying “Ni Hao” is considered racist, “farang” should also be reconsidered. The viral post has divided opinion and reignited broader conversations about inclusivity and everyday language in Thai society. Thai Man Fatally Shot After Fleeing Police Checkpoint A 35-year-old man was killed after fleeing a police checkpoint in Chachoengsao, sparking outrage over possible excessive force. Officers claim they fired a warning shot before shooting him in the back. Human rights groups are calling for an independent investigation as CCTV footage is reviewed. The Royal Thai Police have pledged transparency. Indian Man Scrubs Passport to Hide Thailand Trips from Wife An Indian man went viral after allegedly using chemicals to erase travel stamps from his passport, trying to conceal trips to Thailand from his wife. Immigration officials caught the tampering during a visa application, leading to a denial. No charges have been filed, but authorities stress that altering legal documents carries serious risks. Korea Finds Firms Falsely Labeling Goods to Skirt US Tariffs South Korea has caught companies mislabeling products as “Made in Korea” to dodge US tariffs. The firms imported cheap parts, assembled items locally, and faked origin labels. Penalties include fines and export bans. The scandal highlights growing global trade tensions and the risks of bending the rules to stay competitive.

Foreign Tour Guides Exploiting Thai Loopholes Illegal foreign tour guides are bribing officials to bypass Thai tourism laws, particularly in Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya, and Chiang Mai. Many exploit visa loopholes or run nominee businesses masked as Thai-owned. The Professional Tourist Guides Association urges tighter enforcement and visa scrutiny to protect local jobs and tourism standards.

Thai Influencer 'Uncle Tony' Faces Legal Heat Over Pork Video Influencer “Uncle Tony” caused uproar after posting a video of himself roasting pork in traditional Arab attire—an act viewed as offensive to Muslims. The Islamic Committee Office of Phetchabun is pursuing legal action, citing religious disrespect. Despite Uncle Tony’s apology and video removal, legal consequences may follow under Thai laws related to public offence and religious defamation.

Nestlé Challenges Thai Court’s Nescafé Ban Nestlé is appealing a court-ordered halt on the production, import, and sale of Nescafé in Thailand. The legal dispute with former partner Quality Coffee Products stems from a terminated licensing deal. Nestlé argues intellectual property rights are at stake and wants the case moved to a specialist court. A hearing is scheduled for June 20, leaving the fate of the coffee brand in limbo.

Parliament Investigates Collapsed Billion-Baht Building in Bangkok Following an earthquake, a government building in Bangkok collapsed, prompting a corruption probe. Lawmakers summoned Auditor-General Monthien Charoenpol over concerns about substandard materials, luxury features like imported carpets and a mini-theatre, and bypassed budgeting protocols. Critics claim the State Audit Office misused funds and cut corners on safety. The incident reignites public frustration over deep-rooted corruption in Thailand’s public sector.

On today's Thailand video news update, Jay and Alex cover a wide range of critical stories—from a high-profile corruption investigation over a collapsed government building to a legal controversy involving a social media influencer. Other headlines include a temporary Nescafé ban, the debut of AI policing during Songkran, and regional developments involving China, Russia, and ASEAN neighbours. Here's a summary of today’s top stories. Billion-Baht Building Collapse Sparks Corruption Probe A government building in Bangkok collapsed after an earthquake, triggering a corruption investigation. Lawmakers summoned Auditor-General Monthien Charoenpol to explain the use of inferior materials and luxury extras like imported carpets and a mini-theatre. Critics blame the State Audit Office for bypassing standard budget scrutiny. Thai Influencer Slammed for Offensive Pork Video Influencer “Uncle Tony” faces legal action after promoting his restaurant while roasting pork in traditional Arab attire. The clip angered Thailand’s Muslim community. Despite deleting the video and apologising, authorities say legal consequences are likely. Nestlé Battles Nescafé Ban in Thai Court Nestlé is appealing a court order that halts Nescafé production and sales in Thailand. The dispute stems from a split with former joint venture partner Quality Coffee Products. Nestlé argues the case belongs in a specialised court. A new hearing is set for June 20. Foreign Tour Guides Bribing Officials in Thailand Illegal foreign tour guides—mainly from China, Russia, India, and Vietnam—are bribing Thai officials to bypass tourism laws. Many operate through nominee businesses in hotspots like Phuket and Chiang Mai. Local guides urge tighter visa rules and enforcement. AI Police Cyborg Debuts at Songkran Festival Thailand introduced its first AI police robot, “Pol Col Nakhonpathom Plod Phai,” at Songkran. Equipped with 360° cameras and facial recognition, it monitors crowds and tracks suspects in real-time—blending tradition with futuristic tech. Phuket Reports Zero Road Deaths During Songkran Despite 38 accidents and 39 injuries, Phuket recorded no road deaths during Songkran’s “Seven Dangerous Days.” Authorities credit stricter enforcement. Most crashes involved motorcycles, with speeding and alcohol as top causes. Xi Jinping Reaffirms Cambodia as China’s ‘Priority’ During a visit to Cambodia, Chinese President Xi Jinping pledged deeper cooperation under the “Diamond Hexagon” framework. He reaffirmed support for Cambodia’s development and praised their Belt and Road collaboration. Elderly Seoul Woman Rescued After Balcony Ordeal A 70-year-old woman in Seoul was saved after being trapped on her balcony for 18 hours. She tied clothes into a rope to signal for help. Police spotted the distress sign and rescued her the next morning. Russia Denies Seeking Air Base in Indonesia Russia denied reports that it sought access to Indonesia’s Manuhua Air Base. Jakarta reaffirmed its neutral policy, while Moscow criticised the AUKUS pact and blamed Western powers for destabilising the region.

Topless Songkran Dance by Trans Woman Sparks Cultural Controversy A topless dance performed by a transgender woman during Songkran in Nakhon Ratchasima has sparked national debate. The viral clip, filmed at a busy intersection, shows the woman disrobing to cheers from the crowd. Critics argue that the act undermines Thai cultural traditions, particularly during the revered New Year festival. The backlash online has reignited conversations about balancing freedom of expression with cultural respect during public celebrations.

Meatball Vendor Slashes Ex-Husband’s Ear During Songkran Row A Pattaya street food vendor slashed her ex-husband’s ear during a drunken altercation in the early hours of 16 April. The man allegedly struck her in a fit of jealousy while she was working, prompting her to retaliate with a knife. Emergency responders found the man injured but conscious. The vendor, 48-year-old Uraiwan, cooperated with police and claimed self-defence. Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage to determine whether charges will be filed. The incident added an unsettling twist to the holiday festivities.

Bangkok’s Maha Songkran Festival Attracts Over Half a Million Visitors The Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2025 drew more than 558,000 visitors to Bangkok, generating THB 1.7 billion in just three days. Held at Sanam Luang and along Ratchadamnoen Avenue, the event featured a grand parade, drone shows, Muay Thai, EDM music, and cultural exhibitions. Over 93% of visitors reported high satisfaction. Tourism authorities expect over 476,000 foreign arrivals and millions of domestic trips during the holiday, contributing more than THB 26 billion to the economy.

Thai Ranger Drowns Retrieving Tourist’s Phone in Flooded Cave A Thai park ranger, 43-year-old Paisan Wanphet, tragically drowned while attempting to retrieve a tourist’s phone from a rain-swollen stream inside Tham Sao Hin cave in Kanchanaburi. Strong currents swept him away, and his body was later recovered in the early hours of the following day. Over 120 tourists were safely evacuated from the site. The national park has since closed temporarily, and Paisan’s family will receive compensation from government and conservation funds. The incident underscores the risks faced by park personnel during tourist emergencies.

Pattaya Tourist Assaults Bar Staff, Knocked Out in Viral Fight A foreign tourist in Pattaya caused outrage after groping a bar worker and mocking Muay Thai on Soi 6 during Songkran. Despite intervention from bar staff and security, he continued harassing patrons and poured beer over a guard. Challenging onlookers to a fight, he was swiftly knocked down by a bouncer in an incident caught on video and widely shared online. Police are now investigating the altercation. The bar has temporarily closed, with staff citing self-defence in response to repeated provocation.

Landslide Injures Two Filipinas on Khao Yai Waterfall Trail Two Filipina tourists were injured when a landslide struck the trail leading to Haew Narok Waterfall in Khao Yai National Park. Triggered by heavy rainfall that destabilised the area, the landslide caused rocks and debris to fall, hitting the hikers. Both women were taken to hospital, although their condition remains unknown. The trail has been closed indefinitely while safety inspections are conducted. Authorities are monitoring the area closely, particularly due to ongoing weather risks during the rainy season.

Ranger Drowns Saving Tourist's Phone A Thai park ranger died retrieving a tourist’s phone from a flooded cave in Kanchanaburi. Over 120 tourists were safely evacuated. Landslide Injures Tourists at Khao Yai Two Filipinas were injured in a landslide at Haew Narok Waterfall after heavy rain. The trail is now closed for safety checks. Tourist Knocked Out in Pattaya Bar Brawl A foreign tourist groped a worker, mocked Muay Thai, and was knocked out by a bouncer in a viral Pattaya fight. Police are investigating. Street Vendor Slashes Ex in Jealous Row A meatball vendor in Pattaya slashed her ex-husband’s ear after he allegedly attacked her during Songkran. CCTV is under review. Topless Songkran Dance Stirs Backlash A viral clip of a trans woman dancing topless during Songkran in Korat has triggered national debate over culture and decency. Bangkok’s Maha Songkran a Tourism Hit Maha Songkran drew over 558,000 visitors and THB 1.7B in revenue. The festival boasted parades, drones, and EDM shows. 80,000 Indonesians Working Illegally in Cambodia Indonesia says thousands are in Cambodia without legal protection, mostly in scam jobs. One death is under investigation. Strong Quake Rattles Southern Philippines A 5.6 magnitude quake struck near Mindanao on April 17. No damage or injuries reported. Xi Declares ‘New Golden Era’ with Malaysia China’s President Xi visited Malaysia, strengthening trade ties amid US tariffs. ASEAN unity and economic shifts were key topics. Vietnam Activates Biggest Submarine Cable Vietnam launched its portion of the Asia Direct Cable, boosting internet capacity by 125% in a major step toward digital growth.

Thailand to Require Digital Arrival Card Submission Before Entry From 1 May, Thailand will require all international visitors to complete a digital arrival card (eTM6) at least three days before entry, replacing the paper TM6 form. The new system aims to streamline immigration processes and reduce congestion at airports. Travellers must submit passport, flight, and accommodation details online. While authorities expect improvements in efficiency and security, concerns have been raised about accessibility for less tech-savvy visitors. Assistance will be provided at airports, and tourism operators are being advised to inform incoming guests in advance.