Over 1.6 Million Homes in Thailand Lie Empty

The transcription below features news stories from across Thailand and Southeast Asia, presented by Alex and Jay on the Good Morning Thailand programme. Today’s topics include Thailand’s growing property waste crisis, with more than one million homes left vacant, Bangkok tightening diesel smoke regulations, and later on, the capital dominating the world’s best hotels list, with several properties securing spots in the global top ten.

Over 1.6 Million Homes in Thailand Lie Empty
Thailand faces a housing glut, with around 1.64 million vacant homes worth over THB 3.4 trillion. Most are condos in Bangkok, driven by speculative buying. A proposed tax on unused properties is being discussed to reduce waste and stabilise the market.

Bangkok Tightens Diesel Smoke Rules
Starting 1 November 2025, Bangkok will enforce stricter diesel smoke limits, cutting the threshold from 30% to 20%. Violators face fines up to THB 4,000 and possible 30-day suspensions, as part of efforts to reduce PM2.5 pollution.

Driver Charged After Punching Police Over Parking Clamp
A man in Nonthaburi faces five criminal charges after assaulting a police officer who clamped his illegally parked car. Authorities warn that violence against officers will not be tolerated.

Beauty Queen Dragged Into Cheating Scandal
A woman in Ratchaburi has accused a beauty queen of having an affair with her husband and coercing her into divorce. The case has stirred online debate and may lead to legal action pending evidence.

Thai Woman Attacked in Oakland’s Little Saigon
A Thai woman in Oakland was attacked by a man throwing rocks and attempting to punch her. She defended herself with a cardboard box as bystanders filmed. The suspect fled, renewing calls for safety measures for Asian communities abroad.

Phuket Sees Zero Crashes After U-Turn Safety Project
Phuket officials report zero accidents at previously high-risk U-turns after installing barriers. The initiative follows over 100 crashes and 10 deaths in five months. Authorities plan to expand the safety measures.

Austrian Man Ordains to Honour the Queen Mother
An Austrian man temporarily ordained as a monk in Kalasin to honour Queen Sirikit, joining a mass ceremony on 31 October. He cited respect for Thai culture and a wish to make merit.

Bangkok Shines in ‘World’s 50 Best Hotels 2025’
Bangkok continues to shine on the global stage, securing three spots in the top 10 of the World’s 50 Best Hotels 2025 list. The achievement highlights Thailand’s luxury hospitality excellence and boosts tourism momentum ahead of high season.