Thailand Delays Decision on Cutting Visa-Free Stay to 30 Days

[Video News]

 

 

The transcription below features news stories from Thailand and across Southeast Asia, as presented in the Good Morning Thailand program, hosted by Alex and Jay. The stories cover a range of topics, from Thailand delaying its decision on reducing visa-free stays to five Malaysians facing U.S. charges in a massive stock fraud case.

 

Thailand Delays Decision on Cutting Visa-Free Stay to 30 Days
Thailand has yet to finalize its decision on reducing visa-free stays from 60 to 30 days. Authorities are reviewing concerns over long-term visitors abusing the system for illegal work, though most tourists stay less than 21 days. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will present findings before any policy changes.

 

German BMW Crash in Phuket Narrowly Misses Motorbike
A 24-year-old German man crashed his BMW in Phuket’s Rawai area, narrowly missing a motorbike. The car hit a divider, went airborne, and smashed into a parked truck, pushing it into shopfront poles. One passenger sustained injuries, and police are investigating the incident.

 

German Man Who Attacked Dentists Found Dead in Korat
A 41-year-old German national accused of attacking dentists in Korat was found dead with a severe neck wound. Authorities are investigating whether it was suicide or foul play. He had been out on bail for assault and trespass, and police were considering visa revocation before his death.

 

Thai Minister Demands More Mall Security After MBK Brawl
Following a violent brawl at Bangkok’s MBK Center between rival students, Thailand’s Higher Education Minister is calling for stricter mall security. The fight left five injured, two critically, with four arrests made. Officials are pushing for enhanced security and weapon checks in malls.

 

British Tourist Claims Abuse in Thai Jail, Forced to Drink Urine
A British tourist alleges Thai police drugged, beat, and starved him while in custody over a dispute at a cannabis dispensary. He claims officers broke his ribs and wrist, shackled him, and forced him to drink urine. After paying over £7,000 in fines, he was released and is now warning travelers.

 

Bag Frenzy Turns Violent at Bangkok Mall, Brand Halts Sales
A chaotic rush for Merge’s limited-edition ‘A Day Bag’ at a Bangkok mall turned violent, sparking outrage. Resellers allegedly paid people to hold spots in line, leading to clashes. In response, Merge has suspended sales of the bag indefinitely, citing safety concerns.

 

Japan Pledges $11M for Cambodia Demining and Peace Museum
Japan has pledged $11 million to Cambodia for demining efforts and the construction of a peace museum in Siem Reap. The funding will enhance demining equipment and training while promoting awareness of landmine dangers in the region.

 

Philippines Adds Buses, Trains Amid Transport Strike
As a transport strike disrupts commuters in the Philippines, the government is deploying additional buses and trains to mitigate the impact. The strike, which opposes alleged fraud in the Public Transport Modernization Program, will run until March 26.

 

Russian Sentenced to 18 Years for Killing Compatriot in Vietnam
A Vietnamese court sentenced a Russian man to 18 years in prison for murdering a fellow Russian over a housing dispute. The victim’s body was found two days later, leading to the suspect’s arrest.

 

US Charges Five Malaysians in $214M Pump-and-Dump Scheme
Five Malaysians and two Taiwanese nationals face U.S. charges over a $214 million stock fraud scheme. They allegedly manipulated shares through false promotions, misleading investors. If convicted, they face up to 25 years per securities fraud charge.