Thailand Proposes Stricter Alcohol Laws

[Video News]

 

 

The transcription below features news stories from across Thailand and ASEAN, presented by Alex on the Good Morning Thailand program. Highlights include Thailand's proposal for stricter alcohol laws and Malaysia's launch of Proton’s first electric vehicle.

1. Tourist Found Dead After Full Moon Party in Koh Phangan

A 37-year-old tourist was found dead near a 7-Eleven in Koh Phangan on December 16. No signs of violence were reported, and an autopsy is underway. Authorities are working with the embassy to confirm the tourist’s identity and ensure international protocol compliance.

2. Thai Man Stabbed to Death After Traffic Dispute in Bangkok

A 23-year-old man was fatally stabbed during a traffic altercation outside a condominium on Rama II Road in Bangkok. Police are reviewing CCTV footage to identify the suspect as investigations continue.

3. Swiss Tourist Attacked by Local Youths in Pattaya

A Swiss tourist was assaulted by local youths in Pattaya after trying to stop them from smashing his car windows. Police are reviewing evidence to track down the suspects involved in the December 15 attack.

4. Thaksin to Advise Malaysian PM for ASEAN Leadership

Former Thai PM Thaksin Shinawatra will serve as an informal advisor to Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim for ASEAN leadership in 2025. Discussions included boosting tourism and trade ties between the two nations.

5. Thailand Proposes Stricter Alcohol Laws

Thailand is advancing a new Alcohol Control Bill, including potential changes to sales hours and stricter regulations on drink-driving and alcohol-related risks. The bill is set for parliamentary debate in January.

6. Universal Healthcare to Expand Nationwide in Thailand

Thailand will launch its “30 Baht for Healthcare Anywhere” programme nationwide on December 25. The initiative integrates digital health technologies to improve access and efficiency across provinces.

7. Filipina Avoids Indonesian Firing Squad, Returns Home

Mary Jane Veloso, a Filipina who escaped execution in Indonesia in 2015, will return home after 15 years in prison. She was spared after her recruiter, who duped her into carrying drugs, was arrested in the Philippines.

8. Malaysia’s Proton Launches First EV

Proton has entered the electric vehicle market with the e.MAS 7, priced from 109,800 MYR. Malaysia aims to make EVs and hybrids 20% of car sales by 2030, supported by a 112% surge in early 2024 sales.

9. India to Supply LNG and Power to Sri Lanka

India plans to supply LNG to Sri Lanka, connect power grids, and develop wind power projects in the Palk Straits. Discussions also include debt restructuring agreements following India’s $4 billion aid to Sri Lanka.