Thai expert warns of health risks from excessive porn use

https://youtu.be/vmbYTPZ6SWo 

The transcription below provides news stories from across Thailand and Southeast Asia, hosted by Alex and Jay in Good Morning Thailand. The stories range from a doctor’s health warning to a stalled rail project and quirky museums.

1. Thai expert warns of health risks from excessive porn use
A Thai forensic specialist warns that heavy pornography consumption can cause erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, and lower sexual desire. A 2021 study showed frequent users faced a 70% higher risk of dysfunction. The expert advises a 90-day “porn detox” to help the brain recover sensitivity.

2. Thailand’s airport rail project faces collapse
Thailand’s US$6.8 billion high-speed rail linking Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi, and U-Tapao airports is on the brink of collapse after six years of delays. The private partner failed to secure financing or pay key fees, freezing the contract. Legal disputes and leadership resignations now threaten the project’s future.

3. Fewer tourists may weaken Thai baht’s year-end rise
Analysts say the Thai baht’s usual year-end strength may fade as fewer Chinese tourists visit. The currency could rise only 1% against the dollar, below normal trends. The Tourism Authority expects a 6% drop in arrivals — the first non-pandemic decline in a decade.

4. Debt collectors seize rabbit in loan dispute
In northeast Thailand, loan sharks shocked locals by seizing a borrower’s pet rabbit during a repayment dispute. Police are investigating the act, which highlights ongoing abuses by unlicensed lenders targeting rural borrowers.

5. Philippine officials jailed for flood-control corruption
A Philippine court sentenced several ex-officials to prison for stealing funds meant for flood-prevention projects. The anti-corruption court found them guilty of plunder and graft, ordering asset forfeitures. The case marks a strong step against infrastructure-related corruption.

6. Hackers hijack Phuket ride-hailing apps
Hackers disrupted Phuket’s ride-hailing apps by redirecting bookings to fake drivers who overcharged or vanished. Authorities urge users to verify drivers and avoid paying off-platform. The breach exposes growing cyber risks in Thailand’s transport network.

7. 7 quirky Thai museums worth a visit
From antique toothbrushes to coconut-shell art, Thailand’s quirky museums offer offbeat adventures beyond temples and beaches. These fun spots reveal Thailand’s playful side and invite visitors to explore hidden cultural gems.

8. Lumpini Park gets royal revamp for 100th anniversary
Bangkok’s Lumpini Park is being restored ahead of its centennial celebration. Upgrades include new trees, lighting, and facilities under royal patronage. The project aims to honour the park’s legacy as the city’s “green lung” and community landmark.