Amnesty Debate over Lese Majeste Law Poised to Spark Tensions in Thai Parliament

[Video News]

 

 

The transcription below highlights stories from across Thailand and Southeast Asia featured on Good Morning Thailand, hosted by Alex. The coverage ranges from the amnesty debate on the lese majeste law, set to ignite tensions in the Thai Parliament, to Malaysia’s stock market rebounding after years of decline.

 

Amnesty Debate on Lese Majeste Law Set to Ignite Tensions in Thai Parliament
The debate over amnesty for those charged under Thailand’s controversial lese majeste law (Section 112) will stir heated discussions in Parliament on Thursday. The committee, led by Chusak Sirinil, presents three options: full amnesty, no amnesty, or conditional amnesty for unintended violations. This first-ever amnesty proposal involving Section 112 has divided political parties, and the decision could have major political and legal ramifications.

 

Thai Singer Tik Shiro Charged with Drunk Driving After Fatal Crash
Renowned singer Tik Shiro (Sirisak Nantasane) has been charged with drunk driving following a fatal accident on October 10 that claimed the life of 28-year-old Thianporn "Meji" Siwapornpithak and injured her brother. Although there was no breathalyser test on-site, a hospital test confirmed Tik was over the legal alcohol limit. He now faces charges of reckless driving causing death and driving under the influence, with compensation negotiations underway between both parties.

 

Reckless Driver Cuts Off Ambulance Twice in Dangerous Road Rage Incident
A dangerous road rage incident endangered a patient’s life as a reckless driver cut off a private ambulance twice during a journey from Khon Kaen to Chonburi. Dash-cam footage shows the vehicle repeatedly obstructing the ambulance, forcing sudden lane changes. The incident, which occurred on October 15, is under investigation, sparking safety concerns for emergency services.

 

Dutch Tourist Throws Objects at Thai Café Staff Over Change Dispute
A 59-year-old Dutch tourist, Max, caused chaos at the Sky Blue café in Udon Thani after throwing objects at staff over a 130-baht change dispute. CCTV footage shows Max attacking employees, resulting in injuries, unaware that his friend had pocketed the change as a prank. The tourist expressed regret, and compensation talks are ongoing with the injured staff members.

 

Pervert Caught on CCTV Stealing Flip-flops in Nonthaburi
A disturbing incident in Nonthaburi was caught on CCTV, showing a man named Toon masturbating with stolen flip-flops. The footage, recorded on October 12, revealed Toon’s history of similar offences, including a 2020 arrest and a 2022 raid uncovering over 120 pairs of stolen shoes. Authorities are investigating additional thefts, while residents raise safety concerns.

 

Pattaya Official Seeks Justice After Sea Urination Incident
Sawate Permpoon, a Pattaya official, is pursuing legal action after two men tried to assault him for warning them not to urinate in the sea. The altercation occurred on October 13, after tourists reported the offenders. Although a fine was suggested, the men refused, leaving police to determine if further action would be taken.

 

US and Philippine Forces Begin Military Drills Amid Tensions with China
The U.S. and Philippine military have kicked off large-scale joint drills known as KAMANDAG from October 15 to 25, involving over 2,000 personnel. Amid rising regional tensions, especially following China’s war games near Taiwan, the exercises focus on amphibious landings, live fire, and humanitarian efforts, with allies from Australia, Britain, Japan, and South Korea also participating.

 

North Korea Destroys Parts of Inter-Korean Links in Show of Defiance
In a defiant act, North Korea demolished parts of unused road and rail connections to South Korea on October 17. The move follows accusations that South Korea flew drones over Pyongyang. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has vowed to cut ties with South Korea and shift focus toward direct dealings with the U.S. as regional tensions escalate.

 

Malaysia’s Stock Market Bounces Back After Years of Decline
Malaysia’s stock market is experiencing a resurgence, with its benchmark index rising 17% in the past year. The recovery is fueled by robust economic growth and foreign investments from U.S. tech giants like Nvidia and Microsoft. The country’s political stability and thriving IPO market have further bolstered investor confidence, although experts advise caution due to potential global economic risks.

 

Lee Hsien Yang to Apply for Demolition of Lee Kuan Yew’s Oxley Road Home
Lee Hsien Yang, the youngest son of Singapore’s founding father Lee Kuan Yew, has announced plans to demolish his father’s Oxley Road home following the recent death of Lee Wei Ling. Despite the move honouring his father’s wish, Lee’s brother, former Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, believes the house should be preserved as a heritage site. The Singapore government is weighing public interest against the late leader’s request.