Thailand’s New E-Visa Simplifies Travel

[Video News]

 

 The transcription below features news stories from Thailand and Southeast Asia, as presented on the Good Morning Thailand program hosted by Alex. Highlights include Thailand's new E-Visa simplifying travel and Indonesia's plan to raise VAT to 12%.

 

Thailand’s New E-Visa Simplifies Travel

Thailand's E-Visa system launches January 1, 2025, enabling online visa applications and digital payments. The system covers 94 embassies, streamlining travel for tourists, businesspeople, and students.

British Mother Warns Tourists of Drug Risks

Anita Turner warns tourists after her daughter Rebecca, 36, died from a drug overdose in Bangkok. A UK inquest into her death is set for January.

Thailand Upholds Death Penalty Amid Criticism

Thailand rejects a proposal to abolish the death penalty, citing crime deterrence and justice as priorities despite no executions since 2018.

Thailand Increases Rebates for Film Productions

Starting January 2025, Thailand offers up to 30% rebates for foreign film productions, removing the 150-million-baht cap to attract big-budget projects.

Bangkok to Host Thailand’s First F1 Race by 2027

Thailand plans its first Formula One race in Bangkok’s Chatuchak area, with a 5–6 km route pending FIA approval. Preparations are underway.

Gordon Ramsay’s Restaurant to Open at ICONSIAM

Gordon Ramsay’s Bread Street Kitchen opens in Bangkok late 2024, featuring British classics and riverside views at ICONSIAM.

Indonesia to Raise VAT to 12%

Indonesia hikes VAT to 12% in 2025, covering luxury goods and services while exempting staples. Tax revenue is expected to reach $100 billion annually.

U.S. Sends Guantanamo Detainees to Malaysia

Two Guantanamo detainees return to Malaysia for reintegration, emphasizing welfare and human rights after detention since 2006.

Cambodia Probes Match-Fixing Allegations

Cambodia investigates match-fixing after their football team’s loss to Singapore, focusing on alleged errors by the goalkeeper.

Mary Jane Veloso Returns to the Philippines

Mary Jane Veloso, jailed in Indonesia for drug trafficking since 2010, returns to the Philippines. She appeals for clemency as discussions continue.