Thailand Video News May 29: Massive positive changes to visa system coming June 1

[Video News]

 

 

In the Good Morning Thailand program, hosted by Alex, there are overviews from across Thailand and some news from Southeast Asian countries, ranging from tragedy in Pattaya to Malaysia gearing up to become a chip hub.

 

 

1. **Full Story of Pattaya Attack Revealed**:

On May 24, three British men were attacked outside Pattaya's Helicopter Bar over a disputed bill. CCTV footage shows a guard kicking one man unconscious, but all three walked away with no severe injuries. Police await an official complaint from the victims to proceed.

 

2. **British National Detained After Fatal Punch**:

Ricky Aaron Williams, a British man, was detained in Pattaya after fatally punching Igor Yasilyev, a Russian man, at a pool party. The altercation followed Yasilyev's advances toward Williams' wife. Williams is in police custody, expressing regret.

 

3. **Austrian Man Drowns in Pattaya Pool**:

A 74-year-old Austrian, Aichmann Johann, drowned at a Pattaya condominium pool on May 27. Found by security, efforts to revive him failed. His wife and daughter were present. Police are investigating the incident.

 

4. **Russian Family Seeks Help in Pattaya**:

A Russian man and his daughters, fleeing conscription, are receiving support in Pattaya. Overstaying their visas and facing financial issues, the family was aided by a local apartment owner. Authorities are assisting with legal proceedings and potential deportation.

 

5. **Tourism Booms in Thailand**:

Thailand welcomed 14.3 million tourists in the first five months of 2024, generating 683 billion baht ($18.7 billion). Major sources include China, Malaysia, and Russia. The surge is due to eased travel measures and visa waivers.

 

6. **Significant Changes to Thai Visa Policies**:

From June 1, Thailand will expand visa-free entry to 93 countries, extend stays to 60 days, and increase visa-on-arrival countries to 31. New five-year visas for digital nomads and others will be introduced, with reduced health insurance requirements for retirees.

 

7. **Malaysia's Semiconductor Hub Ambitions**:

Malaysia plans to attract 500 billion ringgit ($107 billion) in semiconductor investments, focusing on circuit design and packaging. The government will provide significant support to establish local companies and attract global tech firms.

 

8. **Indonesia Halts New Government Apps**:

President Joko Widodo has halted the development of new government apps, aiming to streamline the current 27,000 apps. INA Digital, launching in September, will consolidate services into nine areas, simplifying access for citizens.

 

9. **Philippine Police Officers Fired Amid Coup Concerns**:

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jnr dismissed 35 pro-Duterte police officers amid coup concerns. Allegations suggest the Duterte family plans to destabilize the government, with key officers under investigation for drug-related deaths.