Thailand to loosen alcohol laws

The following transcription features news stories from across Thailand and Southeast Asia, hosted by Alex and Jay on the Good Morning Thailand program. Today’s topics range from Thailand’s plan to loosen alcohol laws to a look at haunted landmarks where history and spirits intertwine.

1. Thailand to loosen alcohol laws
Deputy PM Anutin plans to lift alcohol sale restrictions and extend nightlife hours to 4 a.m. The move aims to boost tourism, though critics warn of potential social issues.

2. Prince Andrew accused of misusing Thai trips
A former diplomat claims Prince Andrew used taxpayer-funded Thailand visits for personal leisure while serving as a UK trade envoy. The royal family has declined to comment.

3. Bangkok robbers pose as police, steal from tourist
Three men dressed as police officers robbed a Chinese tourist of 46,000 baht in Huai Khwang. One suspect has been caught; two remain at large.

4. Teen couple’s public act sparks outrage in Phuket
A viral video showing a teen couple engaging in intimate behaviour near a tourist site has caused public backlash. Authorities are investigating and considering penalties.

5. Rise in Korean kidnappings in Thailand
An increase in abductions and extortion cases targeting South Koreans has prompted security alerts. Thai and Korean authorities are cooperating to prevent further incidents.

6. British woman wakes up with Thai accent after stroke
After a stroke in Turkey, a British woman developed a Thai accent despite never learning the language. Doctors diagnosed her with rare foreign accent syndrome.

7. British drug convict to be repatriated from Indonesia
Lindsay Sandiford, sentenced to death for cocaine smuggling in Bali, will return to the UK after 12 years. The transfer follows humanitarian talks between the two nations.

8. Haunted Thailand: Where spirits meet history
From Bangkok’s “Ghost Tower” to wartime ruins, Thailand’s haunted landmarks blend folklore and faith—offering thrill seekers a glimpse into the nation’s spiritual side.